Tag Archives: real estate

Creating Vibrant Communities: Financial and Social Responsibility



From flipping a simple duplex to building communities, Drew Toth’s journey in real estate is one of hard work,  unwavering dedication, relentless effort, and an unquenchable thirst for knowledge; his story is defined by its unique and unforeseen twist: a profound commitment to both financial prosperity and social responsibility. Now the proud founder of Elevate Living, his company is well on its way to completing its first 129-unit rental building.

In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Discover insights on embarking upon a fruitful real estate investing journey.
  • Grasp the vital role of constant learning and networking for success in this field.
  • Learn about the nuances of land development strategies and associated challenges.
  • Understand the significance of cultivating valuable relationships in real estate.
  • Delve into Elevate Living’s commitment to financial stability and social responsibility.
Drew is an exceptional real estate developer whose unwavering commitment to excellence has revolutionized the industry through his visionary company, Elevate Living. With an innate passion for crafting exceptional living spaces, he has set new standards in the field.
His remarkable journey in real estate began with the successful transformation of a duplex. Since then, he has amassed an impressive portfolio, boasting 96 projects valued at over $100 million over 14 years. His extensive experience serves as a testament to his expertise and unwavering dedication.

Beyond his remarkable achievements, he is an ardent financial and social responsibility advocate. He values fostering enduring relationships, prioritizing the long-term impact of his endeavours rather than pursuing short-term gains. By embracing this philosophy, he strengthens business connections and contributes to the development of thriving communities where residents take immense pride in their homes.

Drew’s visionary approach and unwavering commitment to excellence have propelled him to the forefront of the real estate industry. Through Elevate Living, he continues to redefine the boundaries of innovation and create remarkable spaces that enrich the lives of those who inhabit them.

Get in touch with Drew Toth
https://elevateliving.ca/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/drew-toth-629576a7/
https://www.facebook.com/elevatelivingniagara/

Brought to you in part by
BM Select/Butler Mortgage – https://bmselect.ca/


Transforming Historic Buildings into Luxury Living Spaces



As cities evolve and societal needs shift, the repurposing of commercial buildings and the initiation of land development projects have emerged as crucial strategies for optimizing urban spaces and fueling sustainable growth. These endeavours not only breathe new life into underutilized structures but also pave the way for innovative and purposeful land use.

This week’s podcast episode is Part 2 of a conversation with Ken Bekendam with a focus on Transforming Historic Buildings into Luxury Living Spaces.

In this episode, you will be able to:

  • Grasp the significance of adhering to zoning bylaws and building codes for smooth project completion.
  • Explore the financial and environmental advantages of repurposing commercial properties into residential spaces.
  • Embrace the necessity of innovative approaches and novel ideas in the competitive real estate sector.
  • Discover ways to maintain humility and eagerness to learn for a thriving real estate investment journey.
  • Envision how the housing landscape will be influenced by land development and preserving historical sites.

Ken Bekendam is an accomplished real estate investor and architectural design consultant who specializes in transforming commercial buildings into residential spaces. He has a background in landscape architecture and has founded his own company that focuses on designing, building, and managing construction projects. Ken’s team of talented designers collaborates to create sustainable and innovative solutions for underutilized spaces.

There are numerous opportunities for real estate investors to explore when it comes to repurposing commercial buildings and initiating land development projects. Ken shared his passion for unique ventures such as a 68-unit stacked townhouse development and an adaptive reuse project that transformed a church into luxury apartments. His innovative mindset and willingness to tackle challenging projects breathe new life into existing spaces, bolster the local economy, and provide diverse housing options.

He also emphasizes the importance of preserving heritage buildings and engaging in respectful consultations with indigenous communities. By integrating history, culture, and tradition into his developments, Ken contributes meaningfully to communities while creating valuable housing opportunities.

Get in touch with Ken Bekendam
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenbekendam/
https://www.facebook.com/kenbekendam
https://instagram.com/kenbekendam?igshid=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==

Brought to you in part by
BM Select/Butler Mortgage – https://bmselect.ca/


What the Latest Interest Rate Changes Mean for Investors



On September 7th the Bank of Canada again raised interest rates, perhaps higher than many people expected. They also indicated that they were not finished when it comes to raising rates further.

What does this all mean for real estate investors?

In this special recording from a recent webinar, Daniel Patton of Butler Mortgage outlines the impact this most recent rate increase will have and perhaps what additional rate rises may mean. 

In this episode you will learn about:

  • Stress tests and qualifying rate changes
  • Commercial rate considerations
  • Fixed versus variable rates – which one to choose?
  • Why fixed rates may be cheaper than variable
  • 3% and above means a high risk for the banks 
  • What is a trigger rate and how to calculate it
  • What does an investor do right now?

Daniel Patton is the co-owner of BM Select and has been helping Investors scale their Real Estate Portfolio for over 15 years. BM Select is the # 1 Mortgage Brokerage for volume for the last 5 years, and in 2021 they funded over $600M in mortgage transactions. BM Select continues to be the industry leader for Investors when it comes to buying and selling real estate. 

Daniel was born and raised in Mississauga Ontario Canada and grew up playing competitive sports and music while spending some time at school as well. Daniel suffered from ADHD as a child but often says that it has helped shape his career, and in many ways taught him how to be successful in business and as an investor. He has been involved in mortgages since 2003 and his team routinely ranks among the Top 20 Mortgage Agents across the country.

Get in touch with Daniel Patton:
Website: https://www.butlermortgage.ca/
Email: 
daniel@bmselect.ca
905.569.8326  ext 112
 

This episode has been brought to you in part by
Black Jack Contracting Inc – https://blackjackcontractinginc.ca/
Private $ 4 Mortgages – http://privatemoney4mortgages.com/
BM Select – https://bmselect.ca/


Macroeconomic Outlook & Regional Analysis for Real Estate Investors- Part 2 Q&A



Guest: Robert Hogue, Senior Economist RBC

Listen to the full episode at https://www.thereiteclub.com/podcast

In this episode, Laurel was able to ask questions gathered from the REITE Club community about what the economy could look like in the next few months and years. As benchmark prices have risen for housing, the fear of missing out has grown even more causing an overheated market. Policies could be put in place by the government in the coming months to calm things down. RBC isn’t predicting a market crash but rather a possibly soft or harder landing with prices stabilizing. Canada had been sustaining a 30% growth in population and supply was way too low to meet demand.

Guest speaker Robert Hogue, Senior Economist with RBC explains this and more. Listen to the full interview to find out how you can use this information as an investor. Part 2 of 2 – the 1st part of this interview was an overview of the current market macroeconomic situation.

Listen to both episodes at https://www.thereiteclub.com/podcast

In the Part 2 episode you will learn about:

  • RBC is concerned about the market
  • The fear of missing out is fueling the madness
  • 40% downpayment for investment properties could be considered
  • Canada could crackdown on investors to cool the market
  • Savings went to housing & the stock market
  • The roaring 20s – 2021’s version could lead to massive inflation

Find out more about Robert’s work:
Resources:  http://www.rbc.com/economics/
https://thoughtleadership.rbc.com/

Listen to the full episode at https://www.thereiteclub.com/podcastThis episode has been brought to you in part by
White Elm Design Build – https://www.whiteelmdesignbuild.com/


Understanding The Importance of Succession and Estate Planning



Guest: Ryan Carson, Real Estate Investor and Lawyer

Let’s face it, succession planning and estate planning are the last things on investors’ minds as they scale their portfolios. Though one thing is for certain, no one lives forever so it is very important that you protect the assets that you worked so hard to acquire to secure your family’s financial future. Otherwise, the government and taxes could step in and take a huge chunk of that future.

This week’s guest, Ryan Carson, Real Estate Investor and Lawyer, provides insights and advice on how to plan your portfolio and succession plan at the same time. Also, Ryan discusses how change is the only constant in life and in order to stay in control and up-to-date, you need to have a proper lawyer and accountant on your power team so they can help you minimize any impacts on your family down the road.

In this episode you will learn about:
– Defining succession planning
– Personal vs. Corporate wills and their benefits
– Where to start if you are in the growth phase
– What happens if there is a conflict between a personal will vs. a corporate will
– The steps of estate administration
– How often should you review wills?

Ryan Carson is the fearless leader of the Carson Law team, establishing the firm in 2013 after working for someone else for 6 years. An undergraduate of Acadia University, Ryan majored in Kinesiology with intentions of going into the sports business or becoming a pro sports agent. The only athlete he ever represented never made it very far and Ryan found his true calling was working intimately with people, families, and businesses. His main focus is in corporate law, wills & estates and real estate law.

One of Ryan’s greatest accomplishments is the fact that he has grown from being a one lawyer shop with only a single administrator to where he now oversees the daily operations at two law firms that employ over 20 people combined. However, Ryan is most proud of the beautiful family that he has built, consisting of his wife and two children.

Ryan can be considered the office philosopher as he often talks about finding the perfect work-life balance, which he pursues by filling his time away from the office with golf, hockey, baseball, time with family and on whatever beach he can find.

Get in touch with Ryan:
Websitehttps://www.carsonlaw.ca

This episode has been brought to you in part by:

Black Jack Contracting – https://blackjackcontractinginc.ca/

Private Buyers – https://privatebuyers.ca/

Butler Mortgage – https://www.butlermortgage.ca/

Value Investing Secrets From Bamboo and Streetlight Analogies



Guest: Harry James, Real Estate Investor, and Entrepreneur
How do you handle the ups and downs and cyclical nature of real estate? Listen to the advice from someone who has been investing in real estate and in other businesses for well over 40 years. This week’s guest, Harry James, Real Estate Investor, and Entrepreneur, provides insights and advice on what he term’s value investing. He has invested in everything from commercial to single-family homes and everything in between. The biggest takeaways are to buy the building you are running your business in and to build wealth in real estate over time. Also, don’t be so focused on your goals, that you miss out on the present.
In this episode you will learn about:
  • How to manoeuvre the ups and downs of market shifts
  • Tips on breaking through fear and how to talk yourself through the tough times
  • Streetlight analogy
  • What is something tangible an investor can do today
  • Chinese bamboo plant analogy
  • How to keep yourself motivated to push forward
Harry James has been dispensing advice for real-life since 1984 and is a serial entrepreneur. He is also a businessman, a strategic consultant and a motivator. Harry has built one of Canada’s premier independent financial planning boutiques and sold it for an unprecedented price.
Along with his primary business, an extensive net worth building practice with a robust employee benefits division, Harry’s portfolio includes three restaurants, a natural stone quarry, and over the past 20 years, has orchestrated in excess of $100 million worth of real estate deals.
Harry has earned his black belt in successes and failures and that experience resonates with people. Many entrepreneurs that he has spoken to across Canada have adopted his “Vital Signs” philosophy of “building a business and a life” which is more than a personal philosophy, it’s what he lives every day.

This episode has been brought to you in part by:
White Elm Design Build – https://www.whiteelmdesignbuild.com/

Elevation Realty – http://www.elevationrealty.ca/

Butler Mortgage – https://www.butlermortgage.ca/


Survey Trends For Small Landlords



Guest: Tony Miller, Real Estate Investor & Realtor
COVID-19 has had numerous impacts on the real estate market and for tenants and landlords. This special episode is a conversation with Tony Miller, Real Estate Investor & Realtor where he provides insights and advice on the real estate market and shares his survey results for small landlords. The biggest takeaway is we all need to do a better job of stepping up, getting involved and create a stronger community as professional landlords. Take Tony’s survey so that there will be more data for analysis and information will be posted in the forum at thereiteclub.com.

In this episode you will learn about:
– Updates on the cottage rental market
– LTB updates
– What is Bill 184 and what does it mean for investors?
– Tenant screening steps
– Small landlord survey results and insights
– Should you sell in this market?

Tony Miller is an Investor Focused Realtor and is also known as “Mister Ottawa.” He helps people build wealth, by sharing proven strategies and tools to invest in residential and commercial properties in and around the Ottawa area.

Tony will use your why/goals, financial situation, and intestinal fortitude (aka risk tolerance) to determine the best investment strategies that will help you reach your goals. He will be honest and when needed explain why the investment property you want to buy is a lousy investment.

He will take the time that is necessary to explain that using economic fundamentals and understanding the real estate cycle are the foundations to sound real estate investing. Tony only works with a limited number of clients at a time and will tell you if he is too busy for new clients. He will introduce you to the best Investor Focused Realtors in other markets if you choose to park your money elsewhere.

Tony has been interviewed by local and national media including MoneySense Magazine, Canadian Real Estate Wealth Magazine, and Rogers TV.
Get in touch with Tony:
FaceBook: 
https://www.facebook.com/tony.miller.16906 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tony_miller_real_estate/

This episode has been brought to you in part by:
Black Jack Contracting – https://blackjackcontractinginc.ca/

Private Buyers – https://privatebuyers.ca/

Butler Mortgage – https://www.butlermortgage.ca/

A Day In The Life of a Real Estate Investor & Realtor



Guest: Michael Domenichetti, Real Estate Investor & Realtor
Investing in real estate can have its ups and downs and take it from someone who has invested in real estate for well over 30 years. People may even wonder if they should become a realtor, as well as, a real estate investor. So, this week’s guest, Michael Domenichetti, Real Estate Investor & Realtor, provides insights and advice on investing in real estate and what a day in the life of a realtor really looks like. The biggest takeaway is to keep things simple and not over complicate them because you will just end up getting overwhelmed.
In this episode you will learn about:

– Key fundamentals on good vs. bad deals
– When are the lowest vs. the highest average price points for homes during the year
– Key benefits and challenges for new investors
– Main items in a home that will get you the greatest returns
– The importance of having a target purchaser
– Advantages & disadvantages of being a realtor
– Key stats to look for on a first purchase or a long term purchase

Michael Domenichetti was exposed to real estate investing at the young age of 10 years old. His Grandfather ran a bordering house when he first came to Canada and his Father flipped houses. Later on, his Father bought rental properties and they ended up with a total of 14 doors to take care of so it was very much a family affair. In fact, Michael’s first date with his now wife was tiling the bathroom at one of his flip projects.

Becoming a Real Estate Sales Representative seemed a natural choice for Michael as houses have been such a big part of his life in one way or another. His father also has been a Realtor for over 12 years now and he has been able to work with him learning the trade, as well as working together on transactions.

Michael’s experience with sales and the knowledge of home renovation and construction has been a valuable asset in assisting clients in their real estate transactions. He has a wife and 2 young girls.

Get in touch with Michael:
FaceBook: 
https://www.facebook.com/MDRealEstateGroup/

Investing Advice On Commercial Deals From The Arm Chair Investor



Guest: Mark Gonneau, Real Estate Investor

Investing in multi-family properties can have added advantages and benefits versus other real estate investing options.  With over 100 properties, this week’s guest, Mark Gonneau, Real Estate Investor, provides unique insights and advice on investing in commercial deals.

In this episode learn about:
– Why multi-family vs. other strategies
– Defining DCR and how to calculate it
– Tips on terms and lenders for commercial deals
– The pros and cons of CMHC, and how you can theoretically forecast their appraisals
– What criteria lenders are looking for to lend on commercial deals for first-time investors
– Advice for vetting property managers
– Common mistakes

Mark Gonneau started investing in real estate at the young age of 18 years old. His primary focus is on the Multi-Family Value-Add strategy or, in other words, the BRRRR at the next level. Fast forward to today, he currently owns over 100+ properties.

Also known as The Arm Chair Investor, Mark enjoys helping others by mentoring and coaching on how to create Inter-Generational Wealth Through Real Estate and Passive Real Estate Investing For Active Professionals – all from the comfort of your chair.

To get in touch with Mark:
Email: mark@thearmchairinvestor.ca

The Advanced Edition of the Legalities on Private Equity



Guest: Ryan Carson, Investor & Lawyer & Adam Batstone, CIM, Private Equity Investor & Finance Executive

Ryan Carson is the fearless leader of the Carson Law team, establishing the firm in 2013 after working for someone else for 6 years. An undergraduate of Acadia University, Ryan majored in Kinesiology with intentions of going into the sports business or becoming a pro sports agent. The only athlete he ever represented never made it very far and Ryan found his true calling working intimately with people, families, and businesses. His main focus is in corporate law, wills & estates and real estate law.

One of Ryan’s greatest accomplishments is the fact that he has grown from being a one lawyer shop with only a single administrator to where he now oversees the daily operations at two law firms that employ over 20 people combined. However, Ryan is most proud of the beautiful family that he has built, consisting of his wife and two children.

Adam Batstone is the founder and CEO of a private investment boutique focused on wealth creation through private direct investment called Two Sevens Capital. Their goal Is to create $1 Billion in wealth for their clients and partners by 2030. Adam’s principal focus is in finance and he brings nearly 20 years of progressive professional experience in the areas of Wealth Creation & Investment Management.

Private Equity, Private Equity Real Estate, and Alternative Investments are the specific areas of Adam’s expertise and to date, he has been professionally involved with nearly 5,000 Canadian families over his career. He also holds the professional designation of Chartered Investment Manager (CIM).
In this episode learn about:
– The basic functionality of private equity
– Security measures to look for to protect yourself
– GPLP vs REIT’s and their pros & cons
– How reporting works for investors
– How investors make an investment and how they can get out of deals
– Term durations

To get in touch with Ryan & Adam:
Ryan’s Website: 
https://www.carsonlaw.ca/
Ryan’s Instagram: 
https://www.instagram.com/carson_law_opc/
Adam’s Website:
 https://www.twosevenscapital.com/
Adam’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adambatstone/