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The Canadian Real Estate Investor

The Canadian Real Estate Investor

404 episodes — Page 1 of 9

Top 10 Canadian Cities to Invest in for 2026

May 15, 202644 min

How Long Do Recessions Last In Canada ?

May 12, 202650 min

This May Upset Some Realtors

May 8, 202652 min

How Ai Is Changing Real Estate

May 5, 202651 min

The Tenant Screening Rule That Saves Landlords From Disaster

May 1, 202641 min

The Price You See Is No Longer the Real Price

Apr 28, 202640 min

Why Are Canada's Top Earners Leaving the Country?

Apr 24, 202657 min

How The Silver Tsunami Will Reshape Canada

Apr 21, 202647 min

What Kind Of Spring Market Will We Have?

Apr 17, 202649 min

Canada's Great Wealth Transfer Is Really a Real Estate Transfer

Apr 14, 202641 min

Where To Put Your Money In 2026

Apr 10, 202637 min

The Homes We're Not Building Will Haunt Us In The Future

Apr 7, 202644 min

Ep 391The Math Has Improved But The Sentiment Hasn't

February 2026 home sales were 8.1% below last year — the weakest comparable data since the 2009 financial crisis — despite improving affordability, as tariff fears, job losses, and rising delinquencies keep buyers on the sidelines Canada lost 83,900 jobs in February and mortgage arrears are climbing, with Toronto and Vancouver facing the highest projected delinquency risk as softer prices, weaker resale liquidity, and a shakier labour market all hit at once The national average is masking a country moving in opposite directions: Toronto's benchmark price is down 7.9% year over year while Quebec City is up 12.3% and Alberta stays resilient — there is no single Canadian housing market, only a national average pretending to be one Try it NordVPN risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! Use our code "realestate" to get 4 extras months from a 2 years plan Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) | BMO Global Asset Management VANCOUVER MULTIPLEX EVENT TICKETS LISTEN AD FREE Realist.caSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Apr 3, 202636 min

Ep 390Can a Tax Break Fix Canada's Housing Market?

The federal GST rebate for first-time buyers is now live — and most people are missing the real story. Yes, qualifying buyers can save up to $50,000 federally (and up to $130,000 combined with Ontario's provincial rebate) on eligible new homes. But Ottawa's own numbers imply the average benefit is closer to $22,400 per home. So what's actually going on? Nick and Dan break down the mechanics of the new rebate, why the government's own fiscal tables reveal this is less about affordability and more about keeping the construction pipeline from stalling, and why this policy is likely deflationary, not inflationary, for new home pricing. They also cover the existing purpose-built rental rebate, the retrofit gap nobody's talking about, and what buyers, investors, and sellers should actually do with this information. Try it NordVPN risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! Use our code "realestate" to get 4 extras months from a 2 years plan Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) | BMO Global Asset Management VANCOUVER MULTIPLEX EVENT TICKETS LISTEN AD FREE Realist.caSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mar 31, 202646 min

Ep 389CMHC Loans Explained: Rates, Requirements & What No One Tells You

Nick is joined by Josh & Ehren from BLD to go over the myths and truths of commercial financing.  CMHC demystified — the real qualification requirements, net worth, liquidity and experience you actually need to build multifamily in Canada (and why Instagram is lying to you) CMHC on the way in vs. out — the two main construction financing paths explained, when to use each, and what the risks are in today's volatile market How to get your first project done — practical advice on building your power team, finding a developer partner, and understanding tranches, soft costs and the true cost of building missing middle housing extras months from a 2 years plan Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) | BMO Global Asset Management VANCOUVER MULTIPLEX EVENT TICKETS LISTEN AD FREE Realist.caSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mar 27, 202649 min

Ep 388Why Vancouver's Multiplex Builders Sell Instead of Hold

We are joined by Theorem Development founders & owners Faizan & Suraj who break down their business for us.  A real multiplex deal, broken down: Suraj walks through a recent East Vancouver fourplex project from start to finish — $2M land acquisition, $2M construction, $350K in soft costs, and $6M in total sales revenue, delivering roughly 40% annualized return on invested capital to their citizen developer client. The biggest roadblocks holding back supply: From BC Hydro transformer upgrades that can cost $120K+ and delay projects by over a year, to 6–10 month permitting timelines that add $60–100K in holding costs, Suraj and Faizan break down exactly where time and money get burned — and who ultimately pays for it (hint: the buyer). Why Vancouver's multiplex math favors build-to-sell over buy-and-hold: Unlike Toronto where CMHC MLI Select financing pushes developers toward rental, Vancouver's strata title system and strong end-user demand at the $1.5–1.9M price point make merchant building the more compelling strategy, with 20%+ returns on cost. Try it NordVPN risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! Use our code "realestate" to get 4 extras months from a 2 years plan Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) | BMO Global Asset Management VANCOUVER MULTIPLEX EVENT TICKETS LISTEN AD FREE Realist.caSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mar 24, 202637 min

Ep 387Are Land Claims A Threat Property Rights In Canada?

In this interview with Aboriginal law expert Tom Isaac we talk all about BC court rulings on Aboriginal title (e.g., Cowichan, Musqueam) that could undermine indefeasible land title, threaten private property and liquidity, and have broad economic and reconciliation consequences across Canada. Court language and agreements may mean Aboriginal title displaces Crown/fee-simple protections, creating clouds on property titles and making homes illiquid. Revenue-sharing and uncertainty threaten government services, investment, and the broader economy—hurting reconciliation and public welfare.  Outcomes depend on appeals; the issue could extend beyond BC nationally, and citizen engagement (voting, public pressure) is critical to drive thoughtful policy. Try it NordVPN risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! Use our code "realestate" to get 4 extras months from a 2 years plan Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) | BMO Global Asset Management VANCOUVER MULTIPLEX EVENT TICKETS LISTEN AD FREE Realist.caSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mar 20, 20261h 2m

Ep 3862026 Real Estate Predictions

Rates, Inflation, Jobs, Missing Middle? What the heck is going to happen this year and beyond?! Tune into hear Nick & Dan's Real Estate predictions for this year.  Try it NordVPN risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! Use our code "realestate" to get 4 extras months from a 2 years plan Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) | BMO Global Asset Management VANCOUVER MULTIPLEX EVENT TICKETS LISTEN AD FREE Realist.caSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mar 17, 202644 min

Ep 385Worst Market In Canada? Toronto Vs. Vancouver

We are joined by Adam & Matt from the Vancouver Real Estate Podcast to have a catch up discussion and settle the argument as to which market has been worse. Toronto or Vancouver. Tune in to find out.  Try it NordVPN risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! Use our code "realestate" to get 4 extras months from a 2 years plan Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) | BMO Global Asset Management VANCOUVER MULTIPLEX EVENT TICKETS LISTEN AD FREE Realist.caSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mar 13, 202646 min

Ep 384Fixed Or Variable Mortgage For 2026

Canadian borrowers and investors are shifting from variable and long fixed terms toward 3-year fixed mortgages in 2026, seeking short-term certainty without locking into long rates, and how that decision ties into portfolio planning, refinancing risk, and programs like CMHC MLI Select. Fixed (3- or 5-year) = predictable payments, easier modeling for equity/refinance and portfolio scaling. Variable = a macro bet (rates must fall for it to be advantageous); can cause sudden payment spikes. 3-year fixed = compromise: short-term protection with flexibility if rates decline; financing programs (e.g., CMHC MLI Select) can affect timing and cost. Try it NordVPN risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! Use our code "realestate" to get 4 extras months from a 2 years plan Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) | BMO Global Asset Management VANCOUVER MULTIPLEX EVENT TICKETS LISTEN AD FREE Realist.caSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mar 10, 202641 min

Ep 383Construction Trouble, HST Relief, & Nova Scotia’s Rental Crisis

We cover a whole bunch of breaking news in this episode.  Construction productivity is collapsing (−37% since 2001) amid a massive retiring workforce and small‑firm dominance, constraining new supply and raising costs. Affordability gains are concentrated in condos — not broad-based — while taxes, development charges and stalled starts (RESCON’s HST‑holiday pitch) risk deepening the supply shortfall. Financial and market stress is rising: power‑of‑sale listings are spiking in Ontario, rental affordability is worsening regionally (Nova Scotia worst), and growing private‑credit exposure could tighten financing for builders and buyers. Try it NordVPN risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! Use our code "realestate" to get 4 extras months from a 2 years plan Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) | BMO Global Asset Management VANCOUVER MULTIPLEX EVENT TICKETS LISTEN AD FREE Realist.caSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mar 6, 202641 min

Ep 382The Toronto Condo Ponzi Scheme

The Bank of Canada and Better Dwelling argue Toronto’s condo boom was driven by investor speculation and presale funding, creating Ponzi‑like dynamics where ongoing new-buyer inflows were needed to sustain prices and projects; when demand and returns fell, many projects stalled, inventory surged, and systemic risk materialized. 3 major bullet points: Presale-dependent financing + high investor leverage (small deposits, assignment flipping) made the development model reliant on continuous new buyers rather than end-user demand. Rising interest rates, easing population growth, and oversupply collapsed expected short-term returns, leaving many investors with negative‑cash‑flow units and unsold inventory. Consequences: record unsold/returned units, halted starts and cancellations, developer stress : a market correction that resembles Ponzi finance dynamics but lacks outright fraud. Try it NordVPN risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! Use our code "realestate" to get 4 extras months from a 2 years plan Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) | BMO Global Asset Management VANCOUVER MULTIPLEX EVENT TICKETS LISTEN AD FREE Realist.caSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mar 3, 202650 min

Ep 381Not Just The Winter Weather: The Real Estate Market Is Frozen

Canada's weak housing market start to 2026, debating whether January's 16.2% year-over-year sales decline signals a deeper slowdown or just winter seasonality.⁠⁠​ National weakness across metrics: Sales down 16.2% YoY, new listings up 7.3%, sales-to-new listings ratio fell to 45%, and HPI down 4.9% YoY⁠⁠​ Regional divergence: Ontario markets (Hamilton, Oakville) down double digits, while secondary markets like Quebec City and Sudbury show double-digit gains⁠⁠​Investor positioning: Buyers have more negotiating leverage; sellers need to price correctly as multiple offers are limited to select markets Try it NordVPN risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! Use our code "realestate" to get 4 extras months from a 2 years plan Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) | BMO Global Asset Management VANCOUVER MULTIPLEX EVENT TICKETS LISTEN AD FREE Realist.caSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Feb 27, 202639 min

Ep 380This Exit Strategy Makes Vancouver Multiplexes Work

In this episode we sit down with a Vancity leader, Ryan Mckinley to unpack multiplex financing and policy across Canada. We explore why most multiplexes in Vancouver are strata-title, promoting homeownership, while Toronto’s market is trending toward rentals. Hear practical financing options for homeowners, investors, and small developers, plus a local case study and market outlook. We discuss the big opportunity for Toronto as condo ownership supply tightens, and how multiplexes can deliver lower construction and management costs, greater exit flexibility, and a pathway to more affordable ownership. Try it NordVPN risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! Use our code "realestate" to get 4 extras months from a 2 years plan Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) | BMO Global Asset Management VANCOUVER MULTIPLEX EVENT TICKETS LISTEN AD FREE Realist.caSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Feb 24, 202644 min

Ep 379The Mortgage Renewal Wave Is Here… But It’s Not What You Think

Nick & Dan are joined by Tania Bourassa-Ochoa, Deputy Chief Economist at CMHC, who authored the recent report on the mortgage renewal wave. Over 1.5 million Canadians have already renewed at higher rates, with another million coming. While Toronto arrears have quadrupled, nationally only 0.25% of mortgages are in arrears. 1.5 million households renewed, 1 million more coming — the largest renewal wave in modern Canadian history⁠⁠​ Toronto and Vancouver are most stressed, particularly pandemic buyers, but most Canadian homeowners are still paying⁠⁠​  Despite rising arrears, only 0.25% of mortgages nationally are in arrears — this isn't a nationwide housing collapse⁠⁠ Try it NordVPN risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! Use our code "realestate" to get 4 extras months from a 2 years plan Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) | BMO Global Asset Management VANCOUVER MULTIPLEX EVENT TICKETS LISTEN AD FREE Realist.caSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Feb 20, 202636 min

Ep 378Another Brokerage Steals Funds & Residential Construction Collapses

In this news episode, Nick & Dan cover major challenges in Ontario's housing market, including regulatory enforcement against brokerages, inconsistent multiplex approvals despite new zoning policies, a new RBC-REALTOR partnership, and a severe collapse in residential construction threatening the provincial economy. RECO Trust Account Scandal: Save Max brokerages had $2.7 million unlawfully taken from trust accounts for operating expenses, resulting in suspensions and account freezes — the second major trust breach after iPro's $10.5 million scandal. Multiplex Policy Inconsistency: Toronto's "gentle intensification" policy shows conflicting results, one six-storey project on Islington got approved while a similar Pharmacy Avenue project was rejected over parking and "neighbourhood character," despite both streets being designated for small apartment buildings. Construction Crisis: Ontario's residential construction is collapsing with housing starts down 58% in Toronto, single-family sales down 71% in the GTHA, and 2025 marking the worst year for GTA new home sales in 45 years, threatening to shrink the provincial economy by 1.5-2.5% in 2026. Try it NordVPN risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! Use our code "realestate" to get 4 extras months from a 2 years plan Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) | BMO Global Asset Management VANCOUVER MULTIPLEX EVENT TICKETS LISTEN AD FREE Realist.caSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Feb 17, 202640 min

Ep 377Flat Rents and Record Vacancies In Multifamily

Canada's rental market in Q1 2026, revealing a major shift from growth to stagnation. The main takeaway is that rent growth has essentially stopped nationwide, with some cities experiencing declines. Join us as we go through the Yardi Rental Report  Rent growth has flatlined: National rent growth is only 3.2% year-over-year (in-place rents) and new lease rents are up just 0.7%, with cities like Calgary and Toronto seeing negative growth on new leases. Vacancies at 5-year highs: National vacancy hit 4.5%, with Calgary at 6.1% and turnover exceeding 40% in some Western markets, giving renters unprecedented leverage. Operating costs squeezing margins: Average expenses are $8,000 per unit annually (highest in Ontario at $8,822), making it harder for landlords to maintain profitability as rent growth stalls. Try it NordVPN risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! Use our code "realestate" to get 4 extras months from a 2 years plan Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) | BMO Global Asset Management VANCOUVER MULTIPLEX EVENT TICKETS LISTEN AD FREE Realist.caSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Feb 13, 202646 min

Ep 376The ReTour: Alberta Real Estate Deep Dive

Nick & Dan do a comprehensive deep dive on Alberta's real estate market, part of "The Canadian Re Tour" podcast mini-series. We covers Alberta's economic fundamentals, major cities (Calgary and Edmonton), and mid-sized markets, with detailed data on home prices, rents, vacancy rates, and cap rates as of December 2025. Alberta has Canada's highest GDP per capita at ~$96,544, strong wages, and no rent control, making it attractive for cashflow-focused real estate investors. Calgary ($615,986 avg price) is more expensive and corporate-focused with 102 head offices, while Edmonton ($454,981 avg price) remains Canada's most affordable major citywith stable government employment. Vacancy rates have risen significantly in 2025—Calgary approaching 6%and Edmonton at 3.8%—due to a record 20,000 rental unit starts, helping stabilize the market after an extremely tight 2023. Try it NordVPN risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! Use our code "realestate" to get 4 extras months from a 2 years plan Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) | BMO Global Asset Management VANCOUVER MULTIPLEX EVENT TICKETS LISTEN AD FREE Realist.caSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Feb 10, 202647 min

Ep 375Senate Investigation Exposes What’s Wrong With Canadian Housing

A January 2026 Senate report called housing "Out of Reach." We look at the report and cover the rental market squeeze, development charges, and regulatory delays that are driving up housing costs across Canada Toronto housing fees are staggering: New homes in Toronto carry approximately $200,000 in municipal fees, compared to under $10,000 in cities like Moncton or Charlottetown⁠⁠. Approval timelines are crippling supply: It takes an average of 11 years to get a new housing development approved and built from start to finish in some Canadian cities⁠⁠. Rental market reforms are coming: The Senate report recommends incentivizing rental construction through tax breaks, preserving affordable units, and potentially restricting institutional investors from buying up residential rentals⁠ Try it NordVPN risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! Use our code "realestate" to get 4 extras months from a 2 years plan Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) | BMO Global Asset Management VANCOUVER MULTIPLEX EVENT TICKETS LISTEN AD FREE Realist.caSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Feb 6, 202645 min

Ep 374Why Investors Are Fleeing Canadian Real Estate

BMO economist Robert Kavcic forecasts a "long and slow grind" toward housing affordability in Canada⁠⁠. Prices have fallen 17% from their 2022 peak, but remain unaffordable for many⁠⁠. Investors have exited the market, calling real estate "dead money" compared to equities⁠⁠, and Kavcic predicts prices will continue to decline, especially in the condo and rental segments⁠⁠. The current market favors buyers, with sellers more likely to lower prices than buyers are to pay more⁠⁠​GTA prices still falling Detached houses dropped 8% year-over-year and condos fell 3.8% in the Greater Toronto Area⁠⁠​Rental market concerns Pre-construction condo buyers facing higher mortgage rates are forced to rent instead of sell, which reinforces bearish rental market outlook⁠ Try it NordVPN risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! Use our code "realestate" to get 4 extras months from a 2 years plan Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) | BMO Global Asset Management VANCOUVER MULTIPLEX EVENT TICKETS LISTEN AD FREE Realist.caSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Feb 3, 202645 min

Ep 373Trump Wants To Ban Corporate Landlords, But Canada Already Found A Better Way

Trump's proposed ban on corporate landlords buying single-family homes with Canada's MLI Select program, arguing that financial incentives work better than bans for directing institutional capital toward building new housing supply. Policy Contrast: Trump's ban excludes new construction, potentially pushing institutional investors toward building rather than buying existing homes—inadvertently achieving what Canada's MLI Select program does deliberately through financing incentives MLI Select Mechanics: Canada's program offers 50-year amortizations and 95% financing for multi-family projects that score points for affordability, energy efficiency, and accessibility—making new construction more attractive than competing for existing homes Incentives vs. Bans: The fundamental lesson is that redirecting institutional capital through attractive financing works better than prohibition—creating alignment between investor profit motives and public policy goals without demonizing capital Try it NordVPN risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! Use our code "realestate" to get 4 extras months from a 2 years plan Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) | BMO Global Asset Management VANCOUVER MULTIPLEX EVENT TICKETS LISTEN AD FREE Realist.caSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jan 30, 202656 min

Ep 372Interest Rates, Inflation, & Why Real Estate Prices Are Back To 2017 Levels

In this news episode we discuss how inflation-adjusted home prices have fallen back to 2017 levels, despite appearing stable nominally. Housing starts hit record numbers in 2025 but momentum is fading, with the Bank of Canada holding rates at 2.25%ahead of its January 28th decision. Meanwhile, inflation rose to 2.4% in December, with renters experiencing 4.9% annual rent growth while homeowners saw just 1.3% inflation. Real estate has lost real value: While home prices dropped only 4% year-over-year, inflation-adjusted prices are back to 2017 levels, with weak sales driven more by buyer hesitation than affordability. Housing construction momentum is fading: Despite 2025 being the fifth-best year for housing starts, the six-month average has been declining since September, with economic uncertainty pushing builders toward smaller projects. Renters face much higher inflation than homeowners: Renters experienced 4.9% annual rent growth in December—the fourth-largest jump since 1988—while homeowners saw only 1.3% inflation. Try it NordVPN risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) | BMO Global Asset Management VANCOUVER MULTIPLEX EVENT TICKETS LISTEN AD FREE Realist.caSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jan 27, 202642 min

Ep 371Are We At The Bottom Of The Market?

We are joined by Fred Cassano, Partner and National Real Estate Leader at PwC Canada, discussing the state of Canadian real estate markets around the ULI Emerging Trends report. Market in Transition: The real estate market is experiencing mixed sentiments with a sense that it may be hitting bottom. Office Market Recovery: Office leasing is seeing renewed activity, particularly for trophy assets, driven by return-to-work mandates. Housing Supply Crisis: Canada needs to build 500,000 homes annually to meet demand, with government initiatives like BCH addressing supply issues. Capital Market Shifts: Private capital is filling gaps left by large institutions, with foreign investment in Canadian real estate increasing. Emerging Opportunities: Senior housing presents strong investment potential due to years of undersupply, while retail remains resilient by adapting to consumer needs. Try it NordVPN risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) | BMO Global Asset Management VANCOUVER MULTIPLEX EVENT TICKETS LISTEN AD FREE Realist.caSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jan 23, 202636 min

Ep 370The Difference Between A Stock Investor And A Real Estate Investor

Nick & Dan are joined by Journalist & Podcaster Amber Kanwar for a discussion on her career journey in finance, the "In The Money" podcast, real estate investing (strengths, misconceptions, evolution in Canada, current market challenges), the Canadian economy's trajectory, and financial advice for young Canadians entering real estate.  Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) | BMO Global Asset Management VANCOUVER MULTIPLEX EVENT TICKETS LISTEN AD FREE Realist.ca  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jan 20, 202647 min

Ep 369How to Protect Your Tax-Free Capital Gains When Buying a Second Property

Nick & Dan explain Canada's Principal Residence Exemption (PRE) and Section 45(2) elections, focusing on how to protect tax-free capital gains when buying a second property. The discussion covers how capital gains work in Canada (50% inclusion rate), the PRE's tax-free benefit, and the critical Section 45(2) election that allows homeowners to continue claiming their former home as a principal residence for up to 4 years after converting it to a rental. One exemption at a time: You can only designate one property per year as your principal residence, but buying a second property doesn't immediately eliminate the exemption on your first home Section 45(2) election protects you: When converting your home to a rental, this election prevents a deemed disposition and lets you continue claiming it as your principal residence for up to 4 more years—but you must not claim depreciation (CCA) on the property Change-of-use creates tax exposure: Without the Section 45(2) election, moving out and renting your home triggers a deemed disposition at fair market value, potentially creating a taxable capital gain even though you haven't actually sold Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) | BMO Global Asset Management LISTEN AD FREE Realist.caSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jan 16, 202645 min

Ep 368The Illusion of Choice: How Canadian Banking Actually Works

Canada's banking system is dominated by just six major institutions (the Big Five plus National Bank), which control over 80% of banking assets. While this concentration was designed for stability, it creates limited competition and flexibility compared to the U.S., which has thousands of banks with diverse underwriting philosophies. Illusion of choice: Canadians feel like they have banking options, but are essentially rotating through six institutions that behave similarly in terms of rates, underwriting, and credit requirements. Designed for stability, not competition: Canada's concentrated banking system was intentionally created post-Depression to prioritize safety over flexibility, which helped avoid failures during the 2008 crisis but limits competition. Different bank personalities: Each of the Big Six has distinct lending approaches—RBC prefers "vanilla" borrowers, TD is systems-driven, Scotia is unpredictable, BMO is business-friendly, CIBC is mortgage-aggressive, and National Bank is regionally focused. Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) | BMO Global Asset Management LISTEN AD FREE Realist.ca  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jan 13, 202642 min

Ep 367Joint Ownership, Land Leases & Creative Property Structures

Nick & Dan discuss co-ownership structures for real estate, focusing on joint tenancy vs. tenants in common, and land lease properties. Joint tenancy means equal shares with automatic transfer to surviving owners upon death, while tenants in common allows unequal shares that pass to heirs. Land lease properties let you own the building but lease the land, offering lower purchase prices but with ongoing ground rent and lease expiration concerns. Joint tenancy requires equal ownership and unanimous consent for major decisions, with automatic survivorship rights. Tenants in common allows flexible ownership percentages and independent sale of shares, but no automatic transfer on death. Land lease properties have lower purchase prices since you only own the structure, but require ongoing ground rent and the lease eventually expires. Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) | BMO Global Asset Management MULTIPLEX MASTERCLASS LISTEN AD FREE free 1 week trial for Realist Premium Deal AnalyzerSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jan 9, 202656 min

Ep 366Canada’s Housing Market Stalls Again

Canada's housing market remains stalled despite lower interest rates. The problem has shifted from mortgage costs to fundamental affordability — buyers don't believe prices have reset enough, sellers are discounting to move properties, and the market lacks conviction on both sides. Then in the second half of the show we are joined by our amazing event hosts for some national updates. Market weakness is broad-based: National sales down 10.7% year-over-year, prices down 3.8%, with Toronto and Vancouver leading the decline. Rates aren't the issue anymore: The Bank of Canada cut rates four times in 2025 to 2.25%, but affordability concerns and economic unease still prevent buyers from acting. 2026 outlook is mixed: Spring 2026 is the earliest realistic turning point, with strong growth expected in Quebec City, Montreal, and Regina, while Toronto and Vancouver prices continue falling. Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) | BMO Global Asset Management MULTIPLEX MASTERCLASS LISTEN AD FREE free 1 week trial for Realist Premium Deal AnalyzerSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jan 6, 202639 min

Ep 365Renting Vs. Buying From A Young Finance Expert

Nick interviews Nathan Kennedy, otherwise known as New Money Nate discussing content creation, personal finance, and real estate investing. Nate's Background: Full-time content creator who started in 2018-2019 during college, grew to over 1 million followers across platforms, and transitioned from a full-time job to content creation in 2021 when social media income exceeded his salary. Content Philosophy: Takes a storyteller approach rather than giving direct advice, using scripted skits to educate viewers on personal finance topics while doing thorough research and consulting experts to ensure accuracy. Views real estate as requiring an "operator mindset" rather than a passive investment, warns against romanticizing it, and advocates for going in "eyes wide open" since success requires being hands-on initially before scaling to property managers. Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) | BMO Global Asset Management MULTIPLEX MASTERCLASS LISTEN AD FREE free 1 week trial for Realist Premium Deal AnalyzerSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jan 2, 202641 min

Ep 364The Bull Vs. Bear Case for Canada’s Rental Market

Canada's rental market experienced a dramatic shift in 2025, with vacancy rates rising to 3.1% nationally (the highest in a decade) due to record-high rental construction meeting slower population growth and reduced immigration. This has flipped the market from landlord-favored to renter-favored, with landlords now offering incentives like free months of rent to fill units. Vacancy hit 3.7% (highest since 1988), with landlords competing for tenants for the first time in a generation and offering significant incentives. Calgary maintained a balanced 5% vacancy despite adding 11% to its rental stock, thanks to strong interprovincial migration and employment. Despite rising vacancies, national rents increased ~5%, with landlords raising rates on existing tenants, and affordable units remain scarce. Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) | BMO Global Asset Management MULTIPLEX MASTERCLASS LISTEN AD FREE free 1 week trial for Realist Premium Deal AnalyzerSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 30, 202553 min

Ep 363The Mortgage Episode - Every Type & Whats Right For You

The etymology and historical evolution of mortgages, from ancient collateral practices through to modern Canadian mortgage systems, including key regulatory developments and fundamental mortgage terminology. The word "mortgage" derives from Old French meaning "dead pledge", with collateral-based lending traced back to the fifth century B.C.and formalized through Roman law  Major transformations included CMHC's creation in 1945, the 1954 Bank Act enabling bank mortgages, and the 1970s establishment of the five-year fixed-rate standard, with recent stress tests implemented in 2018. Key terms include mortgage term (contract duration, typically 5 years), amortization (total repayment time, usually 25 years), and the distinction between fixed and variable rates, plus different mortgage types like conventional (20%+ down)and high-ratio (under 20% down). Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) | BMO Global Asset Management MULTIPLEX MASTERCLASS LISTEN AD FREE free 1 week trial for Realist Premium Deal AnalyzerSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 26, 202544 min

Ep 362Are Indigenous Land Claims A Risk For Real Estate Investors?

Canadian real estate investors face new uncertainty due to Aboriginal title claims, particularly following the August 2025 Cowichan case in Richmond, BC. This landmark ruling recognized Indigenous title over 300 hectares of land that included existing private fee-simple properties – the first time in Canadian history this has occurred. The decision has triggered financing issues, cancelled deals, and government intervention, with BC Premier Eby announcing $150 million in loan guarantees. While no one has been evicted, the ruling challenges the traditional concept of "indefeasible" title and creates uncertainty for property owners, lenders, and investors across Canada. Plus in the second half of the show we are joined by an expert Bruce Pardy to get his perspective on the subject.  Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) | BMO Global Asset Management MULTIPLEX MASTERCLASS LISTEN AD FREE free 1 week trial for Realist Premium Deal AnalyzerSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 23, 20251h 14m

Ep 361Real Estate Terms You Need To Know (But Probably Don't) Part. 2

We finish part 2 of all the terms you need to know. Land assembly (combining properties for larger projects), liens (legal claims on property for unpaid debts), land transfer tax (provincial/municipal tax on purchases), letters of intent (preliminary commercial agreements), and minor variances (zoning exceptions). Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) | BMO Global Asset Management MULTIPLEX MASTERCLASS LISTEN AD FREE free 1 week trial for Realist Premium Deal AnalyzerSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 19, 202548 min

Ep 360Real Estate Terms You Need To Know (But Probably Don't)

In Real Estate, everyone speaks the same language but different sectors use different variations. Developers, flippers, lawyers, mortgage brokers, contractors, and realtors all use different variations of real estate terminology, in this episode we cover the first portion of very relevant terms you need to know. Each term includes what it is, how it works, why it's important, and practical context for Canadian real estate. Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) | BMO Global Asset Management MULTIPLEX MASTERCLASS LISTEN AD FREE free 1 week trial for Realist Premium Deal AnalyzerSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 16, 202544 min

Ep 359What Are The Risks & Opportunities In Multifamily Real Estate?

We are joined by commercial real estate broker, podcaster, investor and overall great guy, Dayma Itamunoala. Dayma has extensive knowledge and experience in the multifamily space and has also spent years interviewing the top figures in Canadian Real Estate.  What type of deals he is seeing right now What's working—and what's not How the podcast and LinkedIn changed the game for you Key lessons from interviewing Canada's top real estate professionals Emerging trends in the market Advice for professionals and investors just getting started Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) | BMO Global Asset Management MULTIPLEX MASTERCLASS LISTEN AD FREE free 1 week trial for Realist Premium Deal AnalyzerSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 12, 202544 min

Ep 358The Comeback of Conditions: Protecting Your Deal in a Buyer's Market

We are talking conditions (contingencies) in Canadian real estate offers – protective clauses that allow buyers to back out of deals if certain requirements aren't met. After nearly disappearing during the pandemic housing frenzy, conditions are making a comeback as the market shifts toward buyers. Firm vs. Conditional Offers: A firm offer has no conditions and binds you immediately, while a conditional offer includes safety valves that let you walk away penalty-free if requirements aren't met. Main Condition Types: The most common buyer protections include financing (mortgage approval), home inspection, insurance, sale of existing property, assignment rights, and general due diligence. Market Context Matters: In buyer's markets you have leverage to include protective conditions, but in competitive seller's markets, conditions can make your offer less attractive. Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) | BMO Global Asset Management MULTIPLEX MASTERCLASS LISTEN AD FREE free 1 week trial for Realist Premium Deal AnalyzerSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 9, 202551 min

Ep 357The Truth About Condos

The history and evolution of condominiums in Canada, covering their emergence in the 1960s through today's challenges, with a focus on multiplex stratification. The we are joined by Ben Singer of SR Law for a deeper legal dive.  Canada's first condo: The Brentwood Village townhouse complex in Edmonton (1967) was Canada's first registered condominium, enabled by the Condominium Act of 1967. Growth trajectory: Condos grew from less than 10% of Canadian homes before 1981 to 40-50% in recent years, with exponential growth since 1997. Multiplex stratification: Montreal and Vancouver have long embraced stratifying multiplexes into individually owned condo units, while Toronto is just beginning to explore this approach. Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) | BMO Global Asset Management MULTIPLEX MASTERCLASS UGLY SWEATER HOLIDAY PARTY LISTEN AD FREE free 1 week trial for Realist Premium Deal AnalyzerSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 5, 202545 min

Ep 356Emerging Trends In Real Estate For 2026

We cover the PWC-ULI Emerging Trends in Real Estate 2026 report, which analyzes Canada's real estate market through interviews with industry professionals. The report highlights housing affordability challenges while noting resilience in alternative sectors like retail, student housing, and industrial properties. Despite current difficulties, industry leaders remain cautiously optimistic about adapting to find new growth opportunities. Housing remains the central challenge — Affordability issues are affecting the entire real estate market, with government programs like Build Canada Homes emphasizing modular construction to accelerate supply Alternative asset classes are outperforming — Retail, student housing, self-storage, seniors' housing, and industrial properties show strong performance, with approximately 7.6 million Canadians (18.9%) now 65 or older driving demand in seniors' housing Market is shifting to "the age of the operator" — Success now depends on operational excellence, cross-industry partnerships, and technology integration rather than just identifying the right asset class or location Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) | BMO Global Asset Management MULTIPLEX MASTERCLASS UGLY SWEATER HOLIDAY PARTY LISTEN AD FREE free 1 week trial for Realist Premium Deal AnalyzerSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 2, 202553 min

Ep 355What Bill 60 Actually Means For Landlords & Tenants

Ontario's Bill 60 (Fighting Delays, Building Faster Act, 2025) introduces major changes to landlord-tenant law aimed at speeding up evictions and reducing Landlord and Tenant Board delays. The legislation shortens timelines for tenants to respond to eviction notices, limits their ability to raise defenses at hearings, and reduces compensation requirements for certain evictions. Faster evictions for non-payment: Grace period cut from 14 days to 7 days, and tenants must now pay 50% of arrears upfront to raise maintenance issues as a defense Reduced tenant protections: Tenants can no longer raise new issues at hearings without advance notice, and appeal timelines shortened from 30 to 15 days Lower eviction costs for landlords: Landlords giving 120+ days notice for "own use" evictions no longer need to pay one month's compensation Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) | BMO Global Asset Management MULTIPLEX MASTERCLASS UGLY SWEATER HOLIDAY PARTY LISTEN AD FREE free 1 week trial for Realist Premium Deal AnalyzerSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nov 28, 202554 min

Ep 354The 10 Step Roadmap To Homeownership

Nick & Dan discuss the benefits of owning a home, both financial (building equity, fixed mortgage payments, tax advantages) and emotional (stability, freedom, community), while acknowledging affordability challenges. They introduce the episode's focus: a step-by-step guide to buying your first home, including building a "power team" of professionals and using tools like the First Home Savings Account. Homeownership builds equity and wealth over time, unlike rent, while offering predictable costs through fixed-rate mortgages and potential tax benefits. Beyond finances, owning a home provides stability, freedom to personalize your space, pride in achievement, stronger community connections, and freedom from landlord-related frustrations. Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) | BMO Global Asset Management MULTIPLEX MASTERCLASS UGLY SWEATER HOLIDAY PARTY LISTEN AD FREE free 1 week trial for Realist Premium Deal AnalyzerSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nov 25, 202545 min