The Numbers That Matter
With more than 16,500 students at the University of Windsor, the surrounding neighborhoods offer some of the most reliable rental investment opportunities in Essex County. Properties near campus consistently achieve strong occupancy rates and generate annual yields between 5-8%.
As an investor and real estate professional who has facilitated dozens of student rental acquisitions, I can confidently state that the University of Windsor area represents one of the most stable and profitable rental markets in Southwestern Ontario. Learn more about the university at University of Windsor official website.
16,500+
Total Students85%+
Occupancy Rate5-8%
Annual Yields$575-675
Rent per RoomPrime Investment Streets
Three key streets dominate the student rental market, each offering distinct advantages for investors:
Patricia Road
- Property Type: Large family homes
- Campus Distance: 5-8 minute walk
- Purchase Range: $475K-$675K
- Rental Rate: $575-$675/room
- Sweet Spot: 4-6 bedroom conversions
Sunset Avenue
- Property Type: Medium-sized homes
- Campus Distance: 8-12 minute walk
- Purchase Range: $415K-$575K
- Rental Rate: $525-$625/room
- Sweet Spot: 3-4 bedroom properties
California Avenue
- Property Type: Character homes
- Campus Distance: 10-15 minute walk
- Purchase Range: $375K-$515K
- Rental Rate: $475-$575/room
- Sweet Spot: Value-add opportunities
Student Demographics and Demand
Understanding your tenant base is crucial for successful student rental investment. University of Windsor students represent diverse backgrounds and housing needs:
International Students (35%)
- Stable, year-round occupancy
- Often seek longer lease terms
- Prefer furnished accommodations
- Value proximity to campus
Domestic Students (65%)
- Mix of local and out-of-town students
- Graduate students often excellent tenants
- Engineering/business students reliable
- Many work part-time with steady income
Cash Flow Analysis Example
Let's examine a real-world investment scenario on Patricia Road:
Sample Property: 4-Bedroom Home on Patricia Road
Purchase Details
- Purchase Price: $485,000
- Down Payment (20%): $97,000
- Renovation/Setup: $28,000
- Total Investment: $125,000
Monthly Cash Flow
- Gross Rent (4 rooms × $660): $2,640
- Mortgage Payment: -$2,180
- Taxes, Insurance, Utilities: -$425
- Net Monthly Cash Flow: +$35
How Rent Pays for the Property Itself:
- Principal Reduction: ~$450/month builds equity
- Cash Flow: +$35/month positive income
- Appreciation: ~$730/month (3% annually)
- Total Monthly Benefit: $1,215
- Tenants Pay: 100% of mortgage + expenses
- You Build: $14,580 equity annually
Property Management Considerations
Successful student rental investment requires understanding the unique management challenges and opportunities:
Advantages
- • Consistent demand year after year
- • Higher rental rates per square foot
- • Multiple income streams reduce vacancy risk
- • Students typically responsible tenants
- • Opportunity for furnished rentals (higher rates)
Considerations
- • Higher turnover during summer months
- • Need for clear house rules and enforcement
- • Regular property maintenance required
- • Parking can be challenging
- • Neighbor relations require attention
Assumption University Area
Don't overlook properties near Assumption University, which shares the campus and provides additional student housing demand. This Catholic liberal arts university adds approximately 1,200 students to the rental market.
"Buy on the fringe and wait. Buy land near a growing city! Buy real estate when other people want to sell. Hold what you buy!"
Investment Strategies
Different approaches work for different investor profiles:
Purchase properties already configured for student rentals. Lower returns (7-9%) but immediate cash flow and minimal renovation risk.
- Best for: First-time investors, hands-off approach
- Investment range: $350K-$650K
- Expected ROI: 7-9%
Purchase properties requiring conversion or renovation. Higher returns (10-14%) with added sweat equity and project management.
- Best for: Experienced investors, renovation experience
- Investment range: $350K-$500K + renovation costs
- Expected ROI: 10-14%
Target graduate students and international students with luxury amenities. Premium rents ($600-750/room) with higher-quality tenants.
- Best for: Investors seeking premium market
- Investment range: $550K-$800K
- Expected ROI: 5-8% with lower vacancy risk
Legal and Regulatory Considerations
Operating student rentals in Windsor requires compliance with specific regulations:
- City of Windsor Licensing: Required for rental properties with 3+ unrelated tenants
- Fire Safety: Additional fire safety equipment for multi-tenant properties
- Parking Requirements: Minimum parking spaces per unit (varies by zone)
- Noise Bylaws: Strict enforcement in residential neighborhoods
- Zoning Compliance: Ensure property is zoned for intended use
Ready to Invest in Student Rentals?
The University of Windsor area offers exceptional opportunities for investors seeking stable rental income and long-term appreciation. With proper due diligence and local expertise, student rentals can become a cornerstone of your investment portfolio.
Let's analyze specific properties and create a customized investment strategy based on your goals and budget.
