Where Should I Invest? Real Estate Investing in Canada

In this episode of Where Should I Invest, Sarah Larbi welcomes back Kasey Wong to discuss what it really takes to build long-term financial freedom through Canadian real estate. Kasey shares how being let go early in his career pushed him to pursue secure, income-producing real estate, starting with a Toronto triplex in 2003. Years later, real estate gave him the leverage to walk away from his final job on his own terms. Together, Sarah and Kasey unpack: Why “generational wealth” is really about passing down education and experience Why 5–10 years is a realistic timeline for financial freedom The dangers of coaches promising 1–2 year exits Why multifamily and student housing remain reliable long-term plays How to test rent demand using “ghost ads” The reality of 30–35% down payments for larger multifamily deals Cash-for-keys debate Tenant horror stories and the mental staying power required in this business Kasey Wong is a Canadian real estate investor specializing in multifamily and student housing properties. After starting with a Toronto triplex in 2003, he built long-term income-producing assets that eventually allowed him to leave traditional employment behind. Kasey focuses on practical, conservative investing strategies and has recently returned to coaching and sharing real estate analysis via social media. This is an honest conversation about building freedom the right way without hype.To learn more and access past episodes, visit: https://sarahlarbi.com/podcast-home Contact Kasey Wong here: Website: https://cacoeli.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kasey_wong Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kasey_wong_apartments/ This episode has been brought to you in part by: Ryan DeLaurentis, Flip Savvy – https://flipsavvy.ca/ Ryan Carson, Carson Law – https://www.carsonlaw.ca/ or email ryan@carsonlaw.ca Dalia Barsoum, Streetwise Mortgages https://streetwisemortgages.com/ Do you need help or ideas for your own real estate investing business? Reach out and let us support your journey www.sarahlarbi.com or email sarah@sarahlarbi.com The post A Honest Conversation About Building Financial Freedom the Right Way first appeared on Sarah Larbi Developments.

In this episode of Where Should I Invest, Sarah Larbi sits down with registered psychotherapist Samir Boulazreg to explore the mental and emotional side of entrepreneurship, investing, and high performance. They unpack how anxiety, depression, perfectionism, and burnout quietly impact ambitious professionals and why waiting for the “perfect time” often keeps people stuck. Samir shares practical frameworks around mindfulness, movement, nutrition, and therapy, and explains why mental health work isn’t about “fixing yourself,” but about building awareness and resilience over time. This conversation is especially relevant for entrepreneurs, investors, and high achievers who are building toward financial freedom but struggling to stay present along the way. What You’ll Learn: Why most people live in the past and how it fuels anxiety How depression creates a negative feedback loop (and how to interrupt it) Why starting imperfectly beats waiting for the perfect plan The real difference between psychotherapy and life coaching How mindfulness helps regulate high-achieving personalities Why men and first responders often avoid therapy and why that’s changing How movement and routine support long-term mental resilience Samir Boulazreg is a registered psychotherapist who works with entrepreneurs, high performers, and first responders. His approach blends evidence-based therapy with practical strategies around mindset, behaviour, and well-being. Samir specializes in helping people manage stress, anxiety, depression, and burnout while building meaningful and sustainable lives. Listen here: https://sarahlarbi.com/podcast-home Contact Samir Boulazreg here: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samir-boulazreg-001695330/ Website: https://mypsychology.ca/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mypsychology.ca/ This episode has been brought to you in part by: Ryan DeLaurentis, Flip Savvy – https://flipsavvy.ca/ Ryan Carson, Carson Law – https://www.carsonlaw.ca/ or email ryan@carsonlaw.ca Matt Pickering, National Bank matthew.pickering@nbc.ca Do you need help or ideas for your own real estate investing business? Reach out and let us support your journey www.sarahlarbi.com or email sarah@sarahlarbi.com The post Embracing Wellness: Anxiety & Stress Management for Entrepreneurs first appeared on Sarah Larbi Developments.

In this episode of Where Should I Invest, Sarah Larbi sits down with Kayla Andrade, a landlord advocate and long-time Ontario real estate investor, to unpack what’s really happening in Ontario’s rental market. Kayla shares her journey from landlord to advocate, the regulatory pressures pushing landlords out of the market, and why many investors are reconsidering long-term rental strategies altogether. They dive into Bill 60, municipal licensing fees, tenant-landlord dynamics, and the growing importance of landlord communities and advocacy. This episode offers a grounded, firsthand look at how policy decisions are reshaping the rental landscape and what landlords need to understand to survive and adapt. What You’ll Learn Why landlord–tenant relationships are becoming more strained How Bill 60 impacts evictions, rent reporting, and landlord rights Why some landlords are selling or converting rental properties The risks of over-regulation in Ontario’s rental market How tenant behaviour and loopholes affect small landlords Why landlord advocacy and community support matter more than ever What investors should watch for over the next 12–24 months Kayla Andrade is an Ontario-based landlord advocate and real estate investor. She is the founder of the Ontario Landlords Watch community and has become a leading voice for landlords navigating Ontario’s evolving regulatory environment. Kayla works closely with municipal and provincial leaders to push for balanced housing policy and practical reform. Listen now at https://sarahlarbi.com/podcast-home/ Contact Kayla Andrade here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kaylaandradeolw/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayla-andrade-b4855648/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Kayla.Andrade.olw/ Websites: https://ontariolandlordswatch.com/, https://landlordcreditbureau.ca/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ontariolandlordswatch X: https://x.com/OLWLandlords This episode has been brought to you in part by: Ryan DeLaurentis, Flip Savvy – https://flipsavvy.ca/podcast/ Ryan Carson, Carson Law – https://www.carsonlaw.ca/ or email ryan@carsonlaw.ca Dalia Barsoum, Streetwise Mortgages https://streetwisemortgages.com/ or email dbarsoum@streetwisemortgages.com Do you need help or ideas for your own real estate investing business? Reach out and let us support your journey www.sarahlarbi.com or email sarah@sarahlarbi.com The post Bill 60 and Beyond: A Guide for Ontario Landlords first appeared on Sarah Larbi Developments.

In this episode of Where Should I Invest, Sarah Larbi sits down with Natalie Cloutier, a real estate developer, author, and builder who has carved out a unique niche in the Canadian investing landscape: Build to Rent. Starting with $0 at just 19 years old, Natalie and her husband built their first home using an auto-construction loan and that single decision launched a long-term strategy now responsible for multiple duplexes, fourplexes, and sixplexes. Natalie breaks down the real numbers, the risks, the rewards, and the mindset behind creating cash-flowing rentals from the ground up. She also shares the truth about Bill 23, the municipal pushback that followed, and the often-overlooked challenges developers face behind the scenes. If you’ve ever wondered how to build new multifamily housing or whether Build-to-Rent can actually work in today’s market, this episode delivers the clarity you’ve been missing. What You’ll Learn How Natalie’s “Build to Rent” strategy works from land acquisition to refinance The financing structure needed to build rentals with minimal money left in the deal How Bill 23 created unexpected chaos for builders Why municipalities can make or break your development timeline The biggest mistakes investors make when expanding into construction How Natalie handles permitting, design, and working with new city staff Why choosing the right JV partner matters more than the deal How she used rebates, credit hacks, and marketplace finds to finish units affordably What inspired her new book The Build to Rent Strategy Why cash flow matters more than unit count When to step back from development (and why mental fatigue is real) How to start with nothing and still build long-term wealth Natalie Cloutier is a real estate investor and developer specializing in the Build-to-Rent model, constructing duplexes, fourplexes, and sixplexes across Ontario. With a background in architectural technology, Natalie handles permitting, design, and construction management, while her JV partners handle financing and tenant placement. She is the author of The Build to Rent Strategy, a transparent, numbers-focused guide for aspiring builders and investors. Listen now at https://sarahlarbi.com/podcast-home/ Contact Natalie Cloutier here: Website: https://www.thenewbuildcouple.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenewbuildcouple Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thenewbuildcouple Book: The Build to Rent Strategy (available via her website) This episode has been brought to you in part by: Ryan Carson, Carson Law – https://www.carsonlaw.ca/ or email ryan@carsonlaw.ca James Lloyd, US Properties https://www.usproperties.ca/ or email james@usproperties.ca Matt Pickering, National Bank matthew.pickering@nbc.ca Mid-Term Rentals – https://midtermrentalproperties.com/ Inspire Beach Resort – https://inspirebeachresort.com/ Do you need help or ideas for your own real estate investing business? Reach out and let us support your journey www.sarahlarbi.com or email sarah@sarahlarbi.com The post Building Multi-Family From The Ground Up to Rental Success first appeared on Sarah Larbi Developments.

In this episode of Where Should I Invest, Sarah Larbi sits down with Kenold Knight, a financial advisor, entrepreneur, and mentee of self-made billionaire Michael Lee-Chin, to explore strategies for building long-term wealth beyond real estate. Kenold shares how he helps clients develop a written financial framework, avoid common pitfalls, and focus on sustainable investments. He dives into his “Three Ps” (Predict, Plan, Persevere), the 5 laws of wealth creation, and why investing in emerging sectors like clean energy and healthcare could shape the future of smart portfolios. If you’re looking to get out of the “shiny object” cycle and start creating intentional wealth, this is the episode for you. What You’ll Learn: The importance of a written framework for wealth building How to diversify your investments without diluting focus What mentorship from Michael Lee-Chin taught Kenold Where clean energy and healthcare fit into the future of investing How to recover after financial losses The three Ts of investing to guide your choices Why discipline beats hype when it comes to creating wealth Kenold Knight is a financial advisor and educator who blends personal development with financial strategy. Mentored by billionaire Michael Lee-Chin, Kenold helps Canadians build wealth with purpose, structure, and long-term vision. His background in coaching brings a refreshing clarity to personal finance and investing.Listen now at https://sarahlarbi.com/podcast-home/ Contact Kenold Knight here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kenoldknight/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenoldknight/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kenold.knight/ This episode has been brought to you in part by: Ryan Carson, Carson Law – https://www.carsonlaw.ca/ or email ryan@carsonlaw.ca Dalia Barsoum, Streetwise Mortgages https://streetwisemortgages.com/ or email dbarsoum@streetwisemortgages.com Mid-Term Rentals – https://midtermrentalproperties.com/ Inspire Beach Resort – https://inspirebeachresort.com/ Do you need help or ideas for your own real estate investing business? Reach out and let us support your journey www.sarahlarbi.com or email sarah@sarahlarbi.com The post The Billionaire Blueprint for Building Long-Term Wealth first appeared on Sarah Larbi Developments.

In this episode of Where Should I Invest, I chat with Chad Carter a former sports chiropractor turned real estate investor who’s building a turnkey single-family portfolio in Rochester, New York, specifically designed for Canadian investors. Chad shares how he went from buying his first properties with family to partnering through joint ventures and now launching investment funds to scale his business. We talk about how he’s using institutional credit lines from US lenders to acquire, stabilize, and refinance properties and how he’s achieving double-digit returns while keeping things efficient and repeatable. From managing Section 8 tenants and overseeing light renovations to structuring LP/LLC deals for Canadians and navigating financing. Chad offers real-world tips for anyone curious about cross-border investing. Whether you’re brand new to US investing or wondering how to grow your existing portfolio, this is a crash course in what’s working right now. What You’ll Learn: Why Chad chose Rochester, New York, as his investment market How his team uses institutional credit lines to acquire and refi The difference between Canadian and US financing structures How to manage Section 8 tenants and property management in the US Advice for Canadians getting started with their first US property Why buying off-market from wholesalers can unlock better deals How his new fund structure works for passive investors Chad Carter is a sports chiropractor turned real estate investor, helping Canadians access cash-flowing single-family properties in Rochester, New York. With a background in healthcare and entrepreneurship, Chad launched Maplebridge Investments to scale his US real estate portfolio through joint ventures and investment funds. He specializes in turnkey, scattered-site single-family homes and is passionate about helping fellow millennials and Canadians achieve real estate freedom through cross-border strategies. Listen now at https://sarahlarbi.com/podcast-home/ Contact Chad Carter here: Website: https://www.maplebridgeinvestments.com/ and https://www.beyondbordersgroup.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drchad.beyondborders/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beyondbordersgroup/ This episode has been brought to you in part by: Matt Pickering, National Bank matthew.pickering@nbc.ca James Lloyd, US Properties https://www.usproperties.ca/ or email james@usproperties.ca Mid-Term Rentals – https://midtermrentalproperties.com/ Inspire Beach Resort – https://inspirebeachresort.com/ Do you need help or ideas for your own real estate investing business? Reach out and let us support your journey www.sarahlarbi.com or email sarah@sarahlarbi.com The post Building Cash Flow in the U.S.: Cross Border Turnkey Strategy first appeared on Sarah Larbi Developments.

In this episode of Where Should I Invest, host Sarah Larbi sits down with Ryan De Laurentis, an Ontario-based real-estate investor who’s completed more than 70 flips and hundreds of wholesale deals. Ryan shares his no-fluff approach to flipping — from managing renovations and sourcing materials to knowing when to pivot, drop your price, and protect your capital. He dives deep into the lessons that shaped his rules for flipping and the mindset that keeps him profitable, even in tougher markets. You’ll hear how he learned to prioritize simplicity over perfection, why he believes “cheap sh*t sells” and how humility and discipline are often the most powerful tools in an investor’s toolkit. Whether you’re new to flipping or ready to scale your business, this episode breaks down the numbers, systems, and strategies that turn good flips into great ones. What You’ll Learn: The hard lessons that inspired Ryan’s personal rules for flipping Why “cheap sh*t sells” — and how to appeal to the largest buyer pool How to analyze deals realistically and avoid costly surprises Managing trades, renos, and timelines like a pro When to pivot, drop your price, and move on The importance of relationships in getting better deals Why incorporating can save flippers thousands in taxes How Ryan’s Flip Savvycourse and masterclass help investors build repeatable, profitable systems Ryan De Laurentis is a full-time real-estate investor, flipper, and educator based in Ontario, Canada. After completing more than 70 successful flips and hundreds of wholesale transactions, he launched Flip Savvya course and masterclass designed to teach investors how to analyze, budget, and execute flips that actually scale. Through Flip Savvy, Ryan helps Canadians turn their flipping side hustles into full-time, sustainable businesses built on strategy, systems, and real-world experience. Listen now: https://sarahlarbi.com/podcast-home Contact Ryan De Laurentis here: Course and Masterclass – https://flipsavvy.ca/ Website – https://certainli.ca/ and https://dciproperties.ca/ LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-delaurentis-868b3816/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ryan.j.delaurentis X – https://x.com/ryandelaurentis This episode has been brought to you in part by: Ryan Carson, Carson Law – https://www.carsonlaw.ca/ or email ryan@carsonlaw.ca Dalia Barsoum, Streetwise Mortgages https://streetwisemortgages.com/ or email dbarsoum@streetwisemortgages.com Mid-Term Rentals – https://midtermrentalproperties.com/ Inspire Beach Resort – https://inspirebeachresort.com/ Do you need help or ideas for your own real estate investing business? Reach out and let us support your journey www.sarahlarbi.com or email sarah@sarahlarbi.com The post Being Flip Savvy: Lessons and Strategies from 70+ Flips first appeared on Sarah Larbi Developments.

In this episode of Where Should I Invest, Sarah Larbi sits down with Daniel Foch, co-host of The Canadian Real Estate Investor Podcast, to talk about navigating today’s real estate landscape with clarity, data, and strategy. Known for his sharp analysis and data-driven approach, Daniel breaks down current trends in the Canadian market, highlighting where he sees both risk and opportunity. From the evolution of rental demand to the importance of yield over appreciation, this episode is packed with valuable insights for investors seeking more than just surface-level advice. What You’ll Learn: Why data, not hype, should drive your real estate decisions Where Daniel is seeing opportunities amid economic slowdowns The importance of multifamily homes on arterial roads How rental demand and tenant quality are shifting Tips for launching a niche real estate podcast The difference between buying for yield vs. appreciation Why stress-testing your deals matters more than ever Advice for small investors in uncertain markets He also shares a behind-the-scenes look at his successful podcast, why he prefers research over interviews, and how content can build credibility in a crowded space. Whether you’re just starting out or scaling your portfolio, Daniel’s no-fluff approach offers a fresh lens on what it really means to be strategic in today’s market. Daniel Foch is a real estate broker, entrepreneur, and co-host of The Canadian Real Estate Investor Podcast. With a background in research, data analysis, and market strategy, Daniel brings a unique perspective to real estate investing. He focuses on helping investors interpret economic trends, identify smart opportunities, and build portfolios that can weather market shifts. When he’s not podcasting or investing, you’ll find him digging into spreadsheets or exploring neighbourhoods on the rise. Ready to stop guessing and start investing with a strategy? This is the episode that brings clarity to chaos. Listen now at sarahlarbi.com/podcast-home Contact Daniel Foch here: X: https://x.com/daniel_foch LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielfoch/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danielfoch/ Website: https://fochfamily.com/daniel-foch and https://thecanadianinvestorpodcast.com/podcast/the-canadian-real-estate-investor Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/daniel.foch/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@daniel_foch This episode has been brought to you in part by: US Properties – https://www.usproperties.ca Carson Law – https://www.carsonlaw.ca/ Streetwise Mortgages – https://streetwisemortgages.com Inspire Beach Resort – https://inspirebeachresort.com Mid Term Rentals – https://midtermrentalproperties.com Do you need help or ideas for your own real estate investing business? Reach out and let us support your journey www.sarahlarbi.com or email sarah@sarahlarbi.com The post Navigating the Current Canadian Real Estate Market: What You Need to Know first appeared on Sarah Larbi Developments.

In this episode of Where Should I Invest, Sarah and Kelly sat down with Carrie Soave, an AI strategist and real estate entrepreneur who’s helping investors adapt to the fast-changing tech landscape. Carrie shared how she transitioned from being a licensed agent to running a million-dollar company powered by AI, with a lean team and smart systems. She shared why AI isn’t just the future, it’s the present and how ignoring it could cost you your edge. They covered how tools like ChatGPT and Gemini are reshaping everything from marketing to lead gen, plus how Carrie helps business owners create their own custom GPTs and automations to streamline tasks and boost profit. If you’re overwhelmed by AI or not sure how to start, this conversation will give you the clarity and confidence to explore what’s possible. What You’ll Learn: Why AI is making many real estate tasks faster, cheaper, and smarter The tools and platforms Carrie recommends for investors and entrepreneurs How Carrie built an efficient AI-powered business with minimal overhead What to watch for in the future of fully autonomous AI agents Tips for getting started if you feel behind on tech How to future-proof your real estate business by adapting now Carrie Soave is a real estate entrepreneur and AI consultant who helps business owners and investors save time, reduce costs, and scale using artificial intelligence. She left traditional real estate behind and now builds custom AI tools, agents, and automations that make businesses more profitable and resilient. Carrie believes AI should be accessible and practical, not intimidating, and she teaches others how to embrace it, one tool at a time. Listen now at sarahlarbi.com/podcast-home If you’ve ever wondered how to use AI to grow your business, this is the episode that will get you started. Contact Carrie Soave here: Website: https://carriesoave.ca/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@carriesoave Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carriesoaveandassociates/# LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrie-soave-35312862/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CarrieSoaveRealtor TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@carriesoaveandassociates This episode has been brought to you in part by: US Properties – https://www.usproperties.ca Dalia Barsoum, Streetwise Mortgages – https://streetwisemortgages.com Mid Term Rentals – https://midtermrentalproperties.com Inspire Beach Resort – https://inspirebeachresort.com Jamil Rahemtula – https://jamilrahemtula.com Do you need help or ideas for your own real estate investing business? Reach out and let us support your journey www.sarahlarbi.com or email sarah@sarahlarbi.com The post Harnessing AI: Future-Proofing Real Estate Investing first appeared on Sarah Larbi Developments.

In this episode of Where Should I Invest, Sarah and Kelly sat down with returning guest Marcin Drozdz to talk about what it really takes to scale in real estate through capital raising. Since his last appearance, Marcin has focused on expanding his portfolio, navigating market shifts, and doubling down on the high-income skill of raising capital. He shares what’s working right now when it comes to investor conversations, lead generation, and team building, and why it’s more important than ever to have systems in place as markets tighten. From scaling up to a nine-figure fund to managing relationships with high-net-worth investors, this episode is full of tactical insights and real-world experience. What You’ll Learn: Why capital raising is the number one skill real estate investors should master How to identify and package your “unfair advantage” to stand out to investors What’s happening in the U.S. market and how Canadian investors can play smart How Marcin structures his teams and builds trust with long-term partners The importance of high-income skills and investing in your own development Where new investors should start when it comes to scaling with confidence Marcin Drozdz is a capital-raising expert and strategist who has built a career around helping others grow their portfolios by mastering the skill of attracting investment capital. With experience spanning both Canadian and U.S. markets, Marcin focuses on multi-family properties, strategic partnerships, and creating scalable systems for real estate success. His work today includes launching a new fund to acquire distressed assets and helping other investors build their own investor networks. Listen now at sarahlarbi.com/podcast-home Ready to raise capital with confidence? This episode is your playbook. If you’re ready to stop guessing and start raising, grab your free copy of Unlimited Investor Leads Marcin’s guide to attracting the right capital the right way. Contact Marcin Drozdz here: Website: https://www.marcindrozdz.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@therealmarcindrozdz Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realmarcindrozdz/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcindrozdz/ This episode has been brought to you in part by: Dalia Barsoum, Streetwise Mortgages – https://streetwisemortgages.com US Properties – https://www.usproperties.ca Mid Term Rentals – https://midtermrentalproperties.com Inspire Beach Resort – https://inspirebeachresort.com Jamil Rahemtula – https://jamilrahemtula.com Do you need help or ideas for your own real estate investing business? Reach out and let us support your journey www.sarahlarbi.com or email sarah@sarahlarbi.comThe post From Dream to Reality: Capital Strategies for Real Estate in 2025 first appeared on Sarah Larbi Developments.

In this episode of Where Should I Invest, Sarah and Kelly sat down with Nick Hill, a real estate investor, mortgage broker, and co-host of The Canadian Real Estate Investor podcast. They had a no-fluff conversation about what it takes to build wealth in today’s market. From launching multiple businesses to managing burnout, Nick shares how he’s navigating an uncertain economy while staying focused on growth. This episode goes beyond strategy. It’s about mindset, resilience, and learning how to pivot when the numbers or your energy aren’t adding up. What You’ll Learn: How Nick started investing and what he’d do differently now The truth about managing multiple income streams without burning out Behind the scenes of building a hit real estate podcast Time-blocking tips and staying consistent through chaos How to invest when prices are high and confidence is low Why community, curiosity, and clarity still matter Nick Hill is a real estate investor, mortgage broker, entrepreneur, and co-host of The Canadian Real Estate Investor podcast. With experience across real estate, finance, and media, Nick brings a fresh and grounded perspective on what it takes to succeed in Canada’s evolving market. He has built multiple businesses, interviewed the country’s top investors, and continues to help clients and listeners make smarter long-term investment decisions. New to investing or ready to scale? This one’s for you. Listen now: sarahlarbi.com/podcast-home Contact Nick Hill here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mybuddynick/ Website: https://www.realist.ca/ and https://www.land-bank.ca/   This episode has been brought to you in part by: US Properties – https://www.usproperties.ca Dalia Barsoum, Streetwise Mortgages – https://streetwisemortgages.com Mid Term Rentals – https://midtermrentalproperties.com Inspire Beach Resort – https://inspirebeachresort.com Jamil Rahemtula – https://jamilrahemtula.com Do you need help or ideas for your own real estate investing business? Reach out and let us support your journey www.sarahlarbi.com or email sarah@sarahlarbi.comThe post Building a Resilient Business in a Volatile Economy first appeared on Sarah Larbi Developments.

Thinking about expanding your portfolio across the border? In this episode of Where Should I Invest, Sarah Larbi and Kelly Casimiro reconnect with Jamil Rahemtula, an investor-focused realtor and cross-border expert, who breaks down exactly how Canadians can enter the U.S. real estate market. From setting up the right entities to navigating financing and Section 8 housing, Jamil offers a clear, practical look at what’s possible when you invest strategically in markets like Ohio, Michigan, and Indiana. He shares how to avoid the most common pitfalls, structure your deals properly, and find the sweet spot between cash flow, appreciation, and landlord-friendly laws. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why U.S. markets offer stronger cash flow opportunities than many parts of Canada How to structure your LLCs or partnerships for legal and tax efficiency What Section 8 is, how it works, and why it’s an underrated cash flow strategy The basics of U.S. financing for Canadians: DSCR loans, VTBs, and more How to overcome challenges like credit building, remote management, and finding local teams Why long-term value lies in diversification, not just location Jamil Rahemtula is a seasoned real estate investor and agent with hands-on experience investing in both Canada and the United States. He specializes in helping Canadians find profitable opportunities in U.S. markets and navigate the legal, logistical, and financial steps of cross-border investing. Jamil is passionate about education, transparency, and helping others build wealth through smart, strategic real estate moves. Contact Jamil Rahemtula here: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JREALTYNETWORK/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamilrealty/ Website: https://jamilrahemtula.com/ This episode has been brought to you in part by: Dalia Barsoum, Streetwise Mortgages – https://streetwisemortgages.com US Properties – https://www.usproperties.ca Mid Term Rentals – https://midtermrentalproperties.com Inspire Beach Resort – https://inspirebeachresort.com Jamil Rahemtula – https://jamilrahemtula.com Do you need help or ideas for your own real estate investing business? Reach out and let us support your journey www.sarahlarbi.com or email sarah@sarahlarbi.com The post Helping Canadian Real Estate Investors Understand US Entry and Section 8 first appeared on Sarah Larbi Developments.

In this episode of Where Should I Invest, Sarah and Kelly sat down with Fritz Vilegas, a registered nurse, twin mom, and real estate investor whose story is rooted in resilience, purpose, and community. Originally from the Philippines, Fritz immigrated to Canada, worked multiple jobs to save her first down payment, and began a real estate journey that has grown across Saskatchewan, Ontario, and Alberta. Fritz’s path wasn’t easy especially during the pandemic when burnout led her to reevaluate everything. But with determination, education, and support from her wife and mentors, she’s built a portfolio that supports her values and her vision for the future. Today, she’s not just investing, she’s showing others how to do it too. What You’ll Learn: How Fritz started investing while working three jobs and helping her parents buy their first home Why burnout during the pandemic became a turning point in her investment strategy The mindset shifts required to invest remotely from Nunavut across multiple provinces How she transitioned from single-family homes to multifamily and joint venture deals Why helping other nurses invest in real estate became part of her mission The importance of mentorship, education, and community in growing your portfolio Fritz Vilegas is a full-time registered nurse, mother of twins, and real estate investor based in Nunavut, Canada. Since buying her first property in 2018 to support her family, she has built a portfolio spanning three provinces, with a focus on multifamily properties and JV partnerships. Today, she empowers other nurses and busy professionals to build wealth through real estate so they can reclaim their time and create lives of purpose, freedom, and balance on their own terms.Listen now at www.sarahlarbi.com/podcast-home Ready to build wealth while staying true to your values? Don’t miss this episode. Contact Fritz Vilegas here: Email: fritzvrei@gmail.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fritzvillegas/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fritzvill/ This episode has been brought to you in part by: Dalia Barsoum, Streetwise Mortgages – https://streetwisemortgages.com US Properties – https://www.usproperties.ca Mid Term Rentals – https://midtermrentalproperties.com Inspire Beach Resort – https://inspirebeachresort.com Jamil Rahemtula – https://jamilrahemtula.com Do you need help or ideas for your own real estate investing business? Reach out and let us support your journey www.sarahlarbi.com or email sarah@sarahlarbi.com The post Real Estate Adventures From the Philippines to Nunavut first appeared on Sarah Larbi Developments.

In this episode of Where Should I Invest, Sarah and Kelly sat down with Debbie Balfour, a real estate investor and coach whose story goes far beyond spreadsheets. From launching her investment journey in 2019 to navigating a devastating house fire and a sudden layoff within two months of each other, Debbie’s resilience has helped her rebuild, not just her portfolio, but her entire life. She opens up about what it’s really like to adapt when your strategies stop working, when regulations change, or when life throws you curveballs. This is a grounded, honest conversation about aligning your investments with who you are and what you want your life to look like. What You’ll Learn: How Debbie rebounded from personal loss while keeping her investing goals intact Why understanding your investor profile is the most important (and most skipped) first step How to combine short, mid, and long-term strategies for income and growth What to do when government regulations or rising rates kill your cash flow How to rethink risk, time, and return when you’re rebuilding from scratch Why coaching, mentorship, and community matter, especially when things get hard Debbie Balfour is a Real Estate Investing Success Coach, entrepreneur, and professional investor based in British Columbia. After losing her family home in a fire and being laid off from her corporate job, she turned her real estate business into a foundation for freedom and purpose. Debbie helps new and scaling investors create personalized investing strategies that match their goals, risk tolerance, and lifestyle, without burning out. She’s also the host of Let’s Talk Real Estate Investing and a passionate advocate for investing with intention. Contact Debbie Balfour here: Email: Debbie@DebbieBalfour.com Website: https://www.debbiebalfour.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debbiereicoach/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/debbie.balfour.16 This episode has been brought to you in part by: Dalia Barsoum, Streetwise Mortgages – https://streetwisemortgages.com US Properties – https://www.usproperties.ca Mid Term Rentals – https://midtermrentalproperties.com Inspire Beach Resort – https://inspirebeachresort.com Jamil Rahemtula – https://jamilrahemtula.com Do you need help or ideas for your own real estate investing business? Reach out and let us support your journey www.sarahlarbi.com or email sarah@sarahlarbi.com The post Strategies to Adapt and Succeed From Major Setbacks first appeared on Sarah Larbi Developments.

In this episode of Where Should I Invest, Sarah and Kelly sat down with Babar Moghal, a returning guest whose real estate journey has gone from small multifamily BRRRRs to major development projects, including senior housing and large-scale multifamily across Alberta. Babar walks us through how he leapt from investor to developer, covering deal structuring, capital raising, partnerships, and how he’s navigating today’s challenging market environment. If you’ve been wondering how to scale or what it takes to move into bigger deals, this conversation is packed with real-world insight. What You’ll Learn: How Babar transitioned from small BRRRRs to multifamily and land development The key elements of the GP/LP structure and why it matters Why Alberta is a strong market for landlord-friendly, cash-flow development How to raise capital, manage out-of-province builds, and structure smart partnerships The biggest challenges in development and how to build the right team Babar’s approach to building community-focused projects that make a real impact The role of education, mentorship, and staying grounded when scaling up. Babar Moghal is a real estate developer and investor focused on creating scalable rental communities and senior housing in landlord-friendly Alberta. Over the last several years, he’s grown from operating smaller BRRRR strategies to leading large multifamily developments, managing construction projects, and raising capital through structured GP/LP partnerships. Known for his strong focus on team-building and strategic vision, Babar also serves as a mentor for new investors looking to scale. He brings practical experience, community-minded goals, and an honest, investor-first approach to every project he touches. Got questions about scaling into development? Reach out to Sarah or Babar, this episode is your blueprint for going bigger, smarter, and more impactfully.Contact Babar Moghal here: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/babar.moghal.rei# Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmoghal/ Website: www.canadianhomeownersolutions.caThis episode has been brought to you in part by: Dalia Barsoum, Streetwise Mortgages – https://streetwisemortgages.com US Properties – https://www.usproperties.ca Mid Term Rentals – https://midtermrentalproperties.com Inspire Beach Resort – https://inspirebeachresort.com Jamil Rahemtula – https://jamilrahemtula.com Do you need help or ideas for your own real estate investing business? Reach out and let us support your journey www.sarahlarbi.com or email sarah@sarahlarbi.com The post Building the Development Dream: Creating Successful Housing Solutions first appeared on Sarah Larbi Developments.

In this episode of Where Should I Invest, Sarah Larbi reconnects with mortgage expert Dalia Barsoum from Streetwise Mortgages to unpack what’s going on in real estate financing mid-2025. With over a decade of collaboration, Sarah and Dalia dive into what’s changed, what’s working, and how investors can adapt to the new economic realities. From interest rate hikes to value drops, Dalia explains why Ontario’s market may be struggling, but also where opportunities are quietly emerging. Whether you’re worried about upcoming renewals or thinking about expanding your portfolio, this episode is a practical guide to navigating today’s investment landscape. What You’ll Learn: How to prepare for mortgage renewals in today’s uncertain rate environment Why some investors are using vendor takebacks to close deals and reduce risk Where turnkey properties, rent-to-own models, and student rentals are actually cash flowing What financing programs exist for adding units under Bill 23 or scaling into commercial How new investors are entering the market and where experienced ones are consolidating Why hybrid mortgages, commercial lending, and debt consolidation strategies matter now more than ever Dalia Barsoum is the founder of Streetwise Mortgages, a boutique mortgage brokerage that specializes in income property financing. With clients ranging from first-time investors to portfolio builders, Dalia’s team helps Canadians scale their real estate businesses with strategic lending options. A thought leader in real estate financing, Dalia is a trusted voice for investors seeking clarity in turbulent markets. Mid-2025 is a turning point, and this episode helps you get ahead of it. Streetwise Mortgages special webinar on “90 Days To Your First Investment” Contact Dalia Barsoum here: Website: https://streetwisemortgages.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dalia-barsoum-2020997/ This episode has been brought to you in part by: Dalia Barsoum, Streetwise Mortgages – https://streetwisemortgages.com US Properties – https://www.usproperties.ca Mid Term Rentals – https://midtermrentalproperties.com Inspire Beach Resort – https://inspirebeachresort.com Jamil Rahemtula – https://jamilrahemtula.com Do you need help or ideas for your own real estate investing business? Reach out and let us support your journey www.sarahlarbi.com or email sarah@sarahlarbi.comThe post Opportunities and Strategies for Real Estate Financing in 2025 first appeared on Sarah Larbi Developments.

What happens when you buy your first property at 19, move across the world, and build a portfolio that’s aligned with your lifestyle, not someone else’s idea of success? In this episode of Where Should I Invest, Sarah and Kelly sit down with Amy Brooke, a CPA-turned-full-time investor who left corporate life to pursue real estate full-time with her husband Nigel. Amy shares the real story behind their success, including the mistakes, mindset shifts, and strategy pivots that helped her scale without losing sight of what matters most. We talk about how she navigated over-leveraging, burnout, and the pressure to do “what everyone else is doing,” and instead focused on building a business that supports her long-term vision, including spending part of the year living in Spain. If you’re juggling career transitions, market uncertainty, or just wondering what’s next in your investing journey, Amy’s story is packed with relatable lessons and grounded inspiration. What You’ll Learn: How Amy bought her first home at 19 and continued building after moving to Canada What she learned from scaling too fast and the cost of over-leveraging The importance of defining your own success, especially when leaving corporate How BRRRRs, conversions, flips, and even Airbnb shaped her investment strategy Why property management experience changed her perspective as an owner What lifestyle-aligned investing looks like and how it’s fueling her plan to live part-time in Spain The realities of working with your partner and building businesses together How she’s helping other investors by sharing what really works (and what doesn’t) Amy Brooke is a CPA and real estate investor who began her journey at 19 in the UK and has since built a thriving multifamily portfolio across Ontario with her husband, Nigel. Together, they’ve explored a wide range of investment strategies from BRRRRs and flips to short-term rentals, industrial conversions, and ground-up development. After leaving behind her corporate finance career, Amy leaned fully into real estate and entrepreneurship, co-founding a growing property management company and building a business that aligns with her lifestyle. Amy’s mission is to make real estate relatable, accessible, and transparent, especially for women and couples navigating similar transitions. She’s passionate about helping others learn from her mistakes, build smarter portfolios, and create a life that actually feels like freedom. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to walk away from a traditional career and make real estate work on your own terms, this one’s for you.Contact Amy Brooke here: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-brooke-cpa-cma-cgma-acma-a6bb6822/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amybrooke_life/ EMail – amy@spsinvestments.caThis episode has been brought to you in part by: Dalia Barsoum, Streetwise Mortgages – https://streetwisemortgages.com US Properties – https://www.usproperties.ca Mid Term Rentals – https://midtermrentalproperties.com Inspire Beach Resort – https://inspirebeachresort.com Jamil Rahemtula – https://jamilrahemtula.com Do you need help or ideas for your own real estate investing business? Reach out and let us support your journey www.sarahlarbi.com or email sarah@sarahlarbi.com The post Beyond the Desk: Living with Intention first appeared on Sarah Larbi Developments.

Ever thought about walking away from the security of a 9–5 to build your own real estate business? In this episode of Where Should I Invest Sarah and Kelly sit down with Kyle Guthro, an investor, licensed agent, and entrepreneur who left a high-paying corporate job to pursue a life and business on his own terms. And he’s not holding anything back. Kyle walks us through his 18-year journey in real estate from buying his first rental during the 2008 crash to building a multi-million dollar portfolio, launching a construction business, and stepping fully into entrepreneurship. We also talk about the real cost of growth: failed partnerships, financial pressure, burnout, and how to build your mindset to survive and thrive through it all. If you’re thinking about making the leap or wondering how others actually do it, this episode is full of hard-earned wisdom, practical tips, and real talk. What You’ll Learn: What it really takes to leave a corporate job for full-time real estate Kyle’s first deal, how he scaled, and the lessons he learned along the way Why money management and mindset are as important as property strategy What “burning the boats” means and how to know when it’s time Behind-the-scenes stories of risk, failure, and bouncing back stronger How Kyle structures his businesses and what he teaches new entrepreneurs Why surrounding yourself with the right people can make or break your journey Listen now https://sarahlarbi.com/podcast-home/ Kyle Guthro is a real estate investor, entrepreneur, licensed agent, and speaker who left the corporate world to build a business that aligned with his values and helped others do the same. Since 2008, Kyle has built a multi-million dollar portfolio across Southern Ontario using strategies like Airbnb, buy-and-hold, fix-and-flip, multifamily, and private lending. He’s also an award-winning sales professional and public speaker who’s shared the stage with Grant Cardone and played a key role in launching Cardone’s Canadian licensing program. Kyle has advised organizations like REIN and REWL, and even made an appearance on the reality TV show Listing Large. Now, he’s focused on helping other entrepreneurs break free from the rat race through coaching, education, and honest conversations about what building a business really takes. This episode is a powerful reminder that success takes strategy but also sacrifice, resilience, and community.Contact Kyle Guthro here: Threads: https://www.threads.com/@kyleguthro Website:  https://www.kyleguthro.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kyleguthro/# YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kyleguthroThis episode has been brought to you in part by: Dalia Barsoum, Streetwise Mortgages – https://streetwisemortgages.com US Properties – https://www.usproperties.ca Mid Term Rentals – https://midtermrentalproperties.com Inspire Beach Resort – https://inspirebeachresort.com Jamil Rahemtula – https://jamilrahemtula.com Do you need help or ideas for your own real estate investing business? Reach out and let us support your journey www.sarahlarbi.com or email sarah@sarahlarbi.comThe post Crafting Freedom: Building a Life on Your Own Terms Through Real Estate first appeared on Sarah Larbi Developments.

What if your next investment wasn’t in your backyard but across the border? In this episode of Where Should I Invest, I sit down with James Lloyd and Voytek Mardula from USProperties.ca to talk about why Detroit is becoming one of the most attractive markets for Canadian investors. I recently bought a property through them, and share my own experience from why I chose Detroit to how the numbers made sense. We dig into Section 8 rentals, Airbnb strategy, cross-border financing, and how Canadians can start building wealth in the U.S. without the overwhelm. Whether you’re just starting to explore U.S. investing or you’ve been sitting on the fence, this episode breaks it all down clearly and honestly. What You’ll Learn: Why Detroit is still undervalued and packed with investor opportunity What’s really going on with Section 8 housing, and what to watch for The full turnkey process with USProperties.ca: from acquisition to management Why short-term rentals in Detroit are outperforming expectations How James and Voytek manage over 600 doors (including 20+ Airbnbs) What Canadians need to know about financing, structure, and legal setup The step-by-step process I went through and how to start your own James Lloyd is the Canadian Sales Manager at USProperties.ca. With 18+ years in hospitality and sales, he guides Canadian investors through every step of buying in the U.S., from financing and legal setup to long-term portfolio growth. Known for his hands-on support and no-fluff approach, James helps remove the overwhelm and make cross-border investing approachable. Voytek Mardula is a lifelong entrepreneur and real estate investor with over 13 years of experience managing and renovating rental properties in both the U.S. and Canada. As the operations lead at USProperties.ca, he oversees the renovation, management, and scaling of over 300 doors in the Detroit area and has built a strong reputation for delivering reliable turnkey results. Together, they’ve helped hundreds of Canadians invest in Detroit and scale profitable U.S. portfolios with ease. Listen now at https://www.sarahlarbi.com/podcast-homeAnd don’t miss our FREE live webinar on June 10 at 7 PM EST, where we’ll walk through Detroit deals, numbers, and strategies. Sign up at https://sarahlarbi.com/latest-events/ Contact James Lloyd here: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-lloyd-37898b44 Contact Voytek Mardula here: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/voytek-mardula-04b28824Website: https://www.usproperties.ca/ This episode has been brought to you in part by: Dalia Barsoum, Streetwise Mortgages – https://streetwisemortgages.com US Properties – https://www.usproperties.ca Mid Term Rentals – https://midtermrentalproperties.com Inspire Beach Resort – https://inspirebeachresort.com Jamil Rahemtula – https://jamilrahemtula.com Do you need help or ideas for your own real estate investing business? Reach out and let us support your journey www.sarahlarbi.com or email sarah@sarahlarbi.comThe post Cash Flow and Scalability with US Property Investments first appeared on Sarah Larbi Developments.

Are you building a real estate portfolio that supports your lifestyle or one that traps you in hustle mode? In this episode of Where Should I Invest, Kelly and Sarah chat with Fernando Nunes, a business development coach, investor, and speaker who’s rethinking what financial freedom really means. Fernando shares how his investing journey led him to self-storage, boutique hotels in Portugal, and a lifestyle-first approach that focuses less on “owning more” and more on living better. We talk about why simplifying your financial goals might get you to freedom faster, what international investing in places like Portugal actually looks like, and how to stop letting traditional thinking box you in. If you’ve ever thought about living abroad, building passive income, or finding more peace in your business, this episode is packed with fresh insight. What You’ll Learn: How Fernando moved from Ontario rentals to U.S. self-storage and European properties What investing in Portugal actually looks like (yes, it’s more doable than you think) How lowering your cost of living can accelerate your path to freedom What it means to create a “lifestyle by design” and how real estate supports it How to shift from working in your business to building a life with your business Tips for building trusted teams in foreign markets The mindset needed to pivot when the market (or your life) changes Why coaching, simplicity, and values matter more than ever in entrepreneurship Fernando Nunes is a real estate investor, business development coach, and speaker with a passion for helping entrepreneurs create lives they don’t need to escape from. After investing in Ontario multifamily properties, Fernando pivoted into U.S. self-storage and international investments, specifically in Portugal, where he’s building out boutique hotel assets. With a background in corporate leadership and over 25 years in business, Fernando brings a grounded, thoughtful, and systems-driven approach to both investing and coaching. His current mission? To help other entrepreneurs simplify their lives, focus on what matters most, and use real estate as a tool, not a trap. This episode is a reminder that freedom doesn’t have to be far away; it just takes clarity, strategy, and a willingness to think differently. Contact Fernando Nunes here: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fngoodlife/ Website:  https://www.fngoodlife.com/ and https://www.madesimpleinvestments.com/ Instagram: https://www.facebook.com/fngoodlife/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nunes-fernando/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@fngood This episode has been brought to you in part by: Dalia Barsoum, Streetwise Mortgages – https://streetwisemortgages.com US Properties – https://www.usproperties.ca Mid Term Rentals – https://midtermrentalproperties.com Inspire Beach Resort – https://inspirebeachresort.com Jamil Rahemtula – https://jamilrahemtula.com Do you need help or ideas for your own real estate investing business? Reach out and let us support your journey www.sarahlarbi.com or email sarah@sarahlarbi.comThe post Freedom and Lifestyle by Design: Investing & Living in Portugal and Beyond first appeared on Sarah Larbi Developments.