Part 1: Adding a Secondary Suite That Fits Right

There are certain North Kingston streets that always seem to have a sense of comfort about them, wide lots, mature trees, and neighbours who stop to chat when you’re out front working on the lawn. They’re exactly the kinds of areas investors love because the homes are solid, the layouts are practical, and there’s always room to reimagine the space without changing what makes the neighbourhood great.  

(Images Courtesy of She Shoots Inc.)

That’s the story behind this particular project. The property had all the right ingredients: a spacious yard, a classic layout, and good bones that had stood the test of time. What it also had was potential, a chance to create a well-designed secondary suite that would bring in steady rental income without taking away from the home’s appeal.  

The owner was no stranger to renovation. Having managed a few rental upgrades before, they knew that the key to success was not just about adding space, it was about making smart, forward-thinking choices. The first decision came when it became apparent that the furnace was reaching the end of it’s life. Instead of replacing the old system, the owner decided to switch to electric heat. It seemed like a small detail, but it was a pivotal one. Removing the old furnace and ductwork opened up valuable square footage in the basement, making it possible to add a third bedroom to the new suite.  

That single change shifted the project’s return on investment. A two-bedroom unit is nice, but a three-bedroom suite is a completely different market. It attracts longer-term tenants, offers flexibility for small households, and commands a noticeably higher rent.  

The existing egress window was a bonus. It brought in natural light and made the lower level feel bright and open, turning what could have been a dark basement into a genuinely welcoming living space. Details like that make all the difference when you’re trying to create a unit that people actually enjoy living in.  

(Images Courtesy of She Shoots Inc.)

The final result is impressive but unpretentious. From the street, you’d never guess the transformation that happened inside. The home still fits perfectly into its surroundings, no major exterior changes, no big additions, just thoughtful improvements that maximize what was already there. It’s a great reminder that you don’t need to go over the top to make a property work harder for you.  

Projects like this show how strategic upgrades can enhance both a home’s value and its functionality without disturbing the rhythm of the neighbourhood. The investor ended up with two attractive, livable units, and the street gained a refreshed property that still feels like it belongs.  As a bonus, the property also had a detached garage—perfect for a detached ADU which we will discuss in our next post!

If you’ve been thinking about adding a secondary suite but aren’t sure where to start, let’s chat. With the right plan, you can increase your property’s potential while keeping the character that makes your neighbourhood special.  Contact House of Three today.