Are you thinking about buying an Airbnb in South Shore, Nova Scotia? You’re in the right place.
Whether you’re a first-time real estate investor or a seasoned Airbnb host looking to expand your portfolio, South Shore, NS offers an unbeatable combination of affordability, charm, and tourism demand.
In this detailed guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about buying an Airbnb in South Shore—from top towns to invest in, to local regulations, expected returns, and pro tips for maximizing your short-term rental income.
Why Buying an Airbnb in South Shore is a Smart Investment
🌊 1. Coastal Beauty Meets Tourist Demand
The South Shore of Nova Scotia is one of Canada’s most scenic regions. Stretching from Peggy’s Cove to Yarmouth, this coastal stretch is packed with:
- Historic seaside towns like Lunenburg, Mahone Bay, and Chester
- Popular beaches such as Hirtle’s Beach, Summerville, and Crescent Beach
- Cultural festivals, farmers markets, craft breweries, and galleries
- Whale watching, sailing, kayaking, and hiking
Tourism continues to grow, especially during the summer and fall months. That means high Airbnb occupancy rates and strong seasonal income potential.
💸 2. Affordable Real Estate with Strong ROI Potential
Compared to markets like Toronto or Vancouver, buying an Airbnb in South Shore is significantly more affordable. You can find:
- Cottages and cabins under $300,000
- Waterfront homes and historic properties under $500,000
- Fixer-uppers with major upside
With nightly Airbnb rates ranging from $150–$500+, your property could pay for itself quickly, especially in high-demand months (June to October).
Best Towns for Buying an Airbnb in South Shore, NS
Here are the top towns to buy an Airbnb in South Shore based on tourism, rental income potential, and property availability:
🏘️ Lunenburg
- UNESCO World Heritage town with colorful waterfront
- One of the most visited destinations in Nova Scotia
- High nightly Airbnb rates ($200–$400+)
🛶 Mahone Bay
- Famous for its “Three Churches” and year-round events
- Very walkable and charming—perfect for couples’ getaways
- Solid bookings during shoulder seasons
⚓ Chester
- Upscale village with yacht clubs and golf courses
- Higher-end properties and guests = higher profits
- Strong Airbnb demand in summer months
🐚 Shelburne & Lockeport
- Underrated gems with lower property prices
- Rustic, authentic Nova Scotia experience
- Ideal for nature lovers and peaceful retreats
What to Look for When Buying an Airbnb Property in South Shore
✅ 1. Location Matters
- Proximity to the ocean, beaches, trails, or town centers boosts bookings
- Look for walkability, parking, and scenic views
- Quiet but not isolated—most Airbnb guests want convenience + nature
🏡 2. Property Features That Perform Well on Airbnb
- Waterfront or ocean view: Major draw for tourists
- Hot tub or fire pit: Increases off-season bookings
- Pet-friendly policies: Can increase occupancy by 20%+
- Fast Wi-Fi and dedicated workspaces: Important for remote workers
🔧 3. Renovation Potential
Many homes in South Shore are older, but with a small investment, you can modernize them while keeping their heritage charm. Think:
- Open-concept kitchens
- Updated bathrooms
- Eco-friendly upgrades like heat pumps
Legal Considerations When Buying an Airbnb in South Shore
Before you purchase any Airbnb investment in Nova Scotia, make sure to:
🔍 1. Check Municipal Zoning and Bylaws
Some towns (especially Lunenburg) have specific short-term rental rules. Ask:
- Is a tourist accommodation license required?
- Are owner-occupied units treated differently than entire-home rentals?
- Are there any limits on the number of rental nights per year?
📋 2. Register with the Province
As of recent regulations, all short-term rentals in Nova Scotia must be registered with the provincial tourism registry.
🛎️ 3. Comply with Safety Requirements
Airbnbs must meet certain health and fire safety codes. Install:
- Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
- Fire extinguishers
- Emergency exits and instructions
How Much Can You Make with an Airbnb in South Shore?
Your income depends on the size, location, and amenities of your property. Here are rough estimates based on existing listings:
| Town | Average Nightly Rate | Peak Season Occupancy | Est. Monthly Revenue |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lunenburg | $250–$400 | 80–90% | $4,000–$7,000+ |
| Mahone Bay | $200–$350 | 70–85% | $3,000–$6,000 |
| Chester | $300–$500 | 70–90% | $5,000–$8,000 |
| Shelburne | $150–$250 | 60–75% | $2,000–$4,000 |
(Based on Airbnb data from 2024–2025)
Earnings vary based on property quality, reviews, and seasonality. Check platforms like AirDNA or Airbnb for real-time data.
Tips for Running a Profitable Airbnb in South Shore
📸 Invest in Professional Photos
Homes with professional photography get more clicks, better reviews, and higher bookings.
🌿 Offer a Unique Experience
Highlight what makes your property different:
- Kayaks or bikes for guest use
- Oceanfront sunrise views
- Local art and Nova Scotia-made products
💬 Automate Guest Messaging
Use tools to automate check-in messages, house rules, and reviews.
Final Thoughts: Is Buying an Airbnb in South Shore Worth It?
Absolutely—buying an Airbnb in South Shore, Nova Scotia is a smart, scalable investment if you’re looking for:
- A growing tourist destination
- Lower entry costs than major Canadian cities
- High potential ROI
- The chance to own a home in one of the most beautiful regions in Canada
Just make sure to do your due diligence on local regulations and by working with a realtor that knows the area and can target towns with strong rental demand, and can help you run the numbers carefully before you buy.
Frequently Searched Questions
Q: Can you Airbnb your house in Nova Scotia?
Yes, but you must register with the province and follow local municipal rules.
Q: Is Nova Scotia a good place for Airbnb investment?
Yes! Especially in tourist-heavy areas like South Shore, which draw consistent seasonal traffic.
Q: What permits do I need to run an Airbnb in Lunenburg County?
You may need both a municipal license and a provincial registration. Always check with your local planning office.
Ready to Buy an Airbnb in South Shore?
If you’re serious about buying an Airbnb in South Shore, Nova Scotia, the first step is to identify your ideal town, budget, and investment goals. Once you have a clear vision, work with me—a local real estate expert who understands the short-term rental market, knows the local bylaws, and can help you find high-potential properties that maximize ROI.
Whether you’re looking for a waterfront cottage in Lunenburg or a cozy cabin near Mahone Bay, I’ll help you navigate every step of the process—from property search and analysis to closing and getting your Airbnb guest-ready.
Let’s turn your investment goals into real income. Contact me today to get started.
This coastal paradise won’t stay affordable forever—get in while the tide is still low.
