Investing
Buying a rental property
A rental only works if the numbers work. I help you check them line by line before you buy, not after.
Cash flow
Run the numbers honestly
Start with a realistic rent for that home and that street, not the best case. Then take off every cost that comes with owning it.
If what’s left is negative, the property only pays off if prices rise. That can still be a plan, but it should be one you choose with your eyes open.
Monthly costs to subtract from the rent
| Mortgage payment | ✓ |
| Property tax | ✓ |
| Landlord insurance | ✓ |
| Condo or HOA fees | If any |
| Repairs and maintenance reserve | ✓ |
| Empty months between tenants | ✓ |
| Property management | If you hire it |
| What’s left each month | Your cash flow |
Before you buy
What I check with investors
Down payment
A rental you won’t live in usually needs at least 20% down. Talk to your lender early, because rules for rentals differ from a home you live in.
Suites
Edmonton allows secondary suites and backyard homes on many lots, but they need the right permits. A suite built without them can cost you at resale and with insurance.
Condos
Read the bylaws for rental rules, and check the reserve fund and any planned special assessments before you firm up.
Managing it
I help you buy the rental. Finding tenants, signing leases and collecting rent is property management, which needs its own licence in Alberta. You can manage it yourself or hire a licensed property manager.
Being a landlord in Alberta
A few rules to know
Security deposit
No more than one month’s rent.
Held in trust
Keep the deposit in a trust account.
Inspections
Written inspection reports at move-in and move-out.
Rent increases
Once every 12 months, with proper written notice.
General information only, as of October 2026. Check the current Residential Tenancies Act rules, and talk to your accountant about taxes on rental income. Not financial or legal advice.
Got a property in mind?
Send me the listing and your rough plan, and we’ll check the numbers together.