We’re very thrilled to have Stephen Willis,Senior Principal, Community Developmentat Stantec, as our special guest on this week’s podcast. In this episode of “Efficiency in CRE”, we're taking a closer look at the planning reforms happening across Canada and how they're affecting the housing market. We talk about what these changes are supposed to do like speeding up construction, increasing the number of homes available, and making housing more affordable. We also chat about the impacts so far, the challenges that have come up, and how the different stakeholders are reacting. And we discuss what still needs to change to help ease the housing crisis. Join us for an honest conversation about housing and where things are headed!
We’re very thrilled to have Bhawana Chhabra, Senior Market Strategist at Rosenberg Research & Associates, as our special guest on this week’s podcast. In this episode of “Efficiency in CRE”, we talk about all the current changes in the commercial real estate world. We get into how regional banks are dealing with CRE risks and interest rates, to the massive demand for electricity due to AI and the green energy transition and how this impacts real estate. And if you’re looking for tips on smart investing for 2024 and 2025, we’ve got you covered. We also dig into how the upcoming U.S. election could shake things up. It’s full of insights and strategies you won’t want to miss!
We’re thrilled to have Benjamin Gianni, Associate Professor and Coordinator of the Urbanism Program at Carleton University, as our special guest on this week’s podcast. In this episode of “Efficiency in CRE”, we take a hard look at how China’s rapid housing development compares to Canada. We examine the factors behind China’s approach; from employer provided housing to centralized planning, while exploring the consequences of their speculative market and absence of property taxes. We’ll also discuss whether Canada can adopt any of these strategies to address the housing supply challenges. Join us on this conversation about housing policy and urbanization!
We’re beyond thrilled to have Mayor Mark Sutcliffe as our distinguished guest on this week’s podcast. We’re chatting with the Mayor about some of the biggest issues facing the city. We talk about the "Fairness for Ottawa" campaign and what it’s all about and how the city plans to get people involved, beyond just signing a petition. We talk about taxes, and if they need to go up, how the city plans to protect households from being burdened. The Mayor recently announced that Ottawa found $153 million in savings, so we’ll get into where that money came from. We also touch on the city’s long-term financial health and whether there are any new funding ideas that could help Ottawa rely less on traditional government money. And of course, we couldn’t have this conversation without talking about downtown. With remote work affecting so many cities, we ask the Mayor how Ottawa’s mix of industries is helping or slowing down its downtown recovery, and what the city is doing to support local businesses that depend on foot traffic. Whether you’re a resident of Ottawa or just interested in how the city is handling these challenges, this episode is packed with insights.
We’re very thrilled to have William Lepine, Treasury Manager at Lepine Apartments. In this episode of “Efficiency in CRE”, we take a deep dive into the origins and growth of Lepine, a key player in the Ottawa real estate market. We discuss the unique challenges and opportunities they face, shedding light on how these differ from other areas. We explore their approach to land acquisition and the entire development process, from initial planning to project completion. Our guest explains how Lepine strikes a delicate balance between affordability, quality, and sustainability in their projects, a critical consideration in today’s market. We also examine the impact of rising land values and construction costs on their operations and discuss the strategies they employ to ensure their developments make a positive impact on the communities they serve. In addition, we reflect on some of the most rewarding moments in William’s career. Finally, we uncover what’s new and noteworthy at Lepine Corporation. This conversation offers a good understanding of real estate development, making it a great listen for industry professionals and enthusiasts alike.
We’re super thrilled to have Simon Mass, Founder and CEO at “The Condo Store Group of Companies”, as our special guest for this week’s podcast. In this episode of “Efficiency in CRE”, we explore the evolving landscape of the condo market. We discuss the latest trends influencing buyers and developers, the recent shifts in condo pricing, and the biggest challenges developers face today. Our guest also sheds light on the growing importance of sustainability in condo development. Plus, get a glimpse into what's new and noteworthy at "The Condo Store". Tune in for expert insights and predictions on where the condo market is headed over the next few years.
We’re very thrilled to have Jonathan Westeinde, CEO at Windmill Developments, as our special guest for this week’s podcast. In this episode of "Efficiency in CRE," we dive deep into the intersection of climate change, sustainability, and real estate development with a focus on Windmill Developments' groundbreaking projects. We tackle the tough questions: How do you engage with climate change skeptics? What makes sustainability profitable or not profitable? And why is sustainability a core value for Windmill? We explore the delicate balance between addressing the climate crisis and the pressing need for more housing. Is there a way to solve both without compromising on either? And we take a closer look at the Zibi project, one of the most ambitious sustainable communities in Canada. Hear firsthand about the most challenging aspects of this brownfield redevelopment, from navigating environmental regulations to engaging with diverse stakeholders. Whether you're a sustainability advocate, a real estate developer, or just curious about the future of green building, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.
We’re super thrilled to have Michael Waters, CEO at Minto Group, as our special guest for this week’s podcast. In this episode of “Efficiency in CRE” we dive deep into the remarkable journey of Minto, a leader in the housing market. Join us as we explore how Minto transformed from constructing 1,000 housing units annually to an impressive 4,000-plus units. Michael shares the strategies and efficiencies that enabled this significant growth and discusses how larger builders like Minto achieve what smaller builders often can’t. Our conversation also touches on the complex task of managing relationships with multiple lenders and equity partners, ensuring the financial stability and success of their projects. Furthermore, we delve into the governance structures necessary for managing billions in assets, highlighting how Minto maintains operational excellence while navigating the ever-changing real estate landscape. Finally, we address the pressing question of how larger builders can contribute to solving the housing crisis, focusing on Minto’s role in creating more affordable housing solutions. Tune in to learn about the intricate balance between growth, governance, and social impact from one of the industry’s most successful builders.
We’re very thrilled to have Julian Schonfeldt, Chief Investment Officer at CAPREIT, as our special guest on this week’s podcast. In this insightful episode of “Efficiency in CRE” we explore how CAPREIT’s investment strategy has evolved. This includes CAPREIT recent sell of $740M portfolio of manufactured homes. This was more than just a transaction, it marks a pivotal shift in CAPREIT’s investment strategy. Julian also explains how CAPREIT is the largest REIT Canada based on “Float”. We also discuss Ottawa and why CAPREIT is a net buyer of real estate in Ottawa. Join us as we unpack these insights and strategies shaping real estate investing. Whether you’re an industry expert or simply curious, this episode is packed with information you won’t want to miss.
We are very thrilled to have Seth Samowitz, COO at BKREA (Bob Knakal Real Estate Adivisors) as our special guest on this week’s podcast. Bob Knakal refers to Seth as the AI Guru and rightfully so. In this episode of "Efficiency in CRE," we explore the transformative potential of AI in real estate brokerages. Despite the industry's traditionally slow adoption of technology, AI is poised to revolutionize how brokerages operate. We also discuss the reasons behind real estate's slow technology adoption. Furthermore, we examine the challenges of scaling AI in commercial real estate. Join us as we unpack how AI is set to disrupt the real estate industry.
I’m very thrilled to have Nigel Furgus, President and CEO at Paragon Living as our special guest on this week’s podcast. In this episode, we discuss the significant development of $600 million worth of multifamily housing by Paragon. We examine how these projects aim to address both the housing supply and affordability challenges, and what impact they might have on the market. We also explore Logix ICF (Insulated Concrete Forms), a modern building method that offers great energy efficiency, strong and durable structures, and sustainable construction options for homes. We also talk about the housing crisis and the affordability crisis and how they are related but not the same. We further discuss why more housing doesn’t always mean lower prices, looking at the factors that make this relationship complicated. Nigel also shares insights from the CMHC (Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation) conference, including new policies, market trends, and new technologies in real estate. Join us for a clear and simple discussion on these important topics that affect everyone. Click the link to listen to full conversation!
I’m very thrilled to have Nhung Nguyen, CEO at Horizon Legacy as our special guest on this week’s podcast. Ever wondered how robots could reshape the construction industry? Join us on this episode as we discuss the fascinating world of robots and how they're helping to solve the labor shortage crisis in construction. We talk about the amazing benefits for architects, like how robotics can seamlessly connect with CAD drawings, bringing blueprints to life with incredible precision. And we highlight a real-life project in Gananoque, Thousand Islands, where robotics is being utilized in building 26 townhouses, showcasing the future of construction. And we touch on Horizon Legacy’s “Construction Automation Lab” which is one of the first of its kind in Canada. Click the link to listen to the conversation!
We’re very thrilled to have Ali Ozden, CEO and Principal at BECC Modular Systems as our special guest on this week's podcast. In this episode of “Efficiency in CRE”, we’re pulling back the curtain on modular construction with. From how the company got their start in the industry to the challenges they face with lenders and developers; we’ll explore what it really takes to push modular projects forward. You’ll hear about their exciting modular hotel project in California and find out just how high you can build using modular techniques. We also explore the key differences between traditional and modular construction, and why modular might be the future of building. Plus, there’s some insider info about what’s next for BECC that you won’t want to miss. If you’re curious about the future of construction, this is the episode for you!
I’m very thrilled to have Colin Lynch, Managing Director and Head of Alternative Investments at TD Asset Management. May 2024 is the “One Year Anniversary” for the “Efficiency in CRE” podcast so it was great to have Colin come back as the first repeat guest. Last time we did the podcast with Colin, the podcast was featured on LinkedIn News for “Office in Downtown Ottawa”. We did not really talk about Office this time around. We discussed alternative investments, what has happened regarding the housing crisis since we last did the podcast in 2023 and the inspiring impact of the “Black Opportunity Fund.” We discussed solving real world problems with alternative investments, increased government focus on the housing crisis and how the Black Opportunity Fund is helping to the solve the housing crisis among other initiatives. And we also discussed that though there is more government focus in addressing the housing crisis, not enough has been done to move the needle. Click the link below to listen to our conversation!
I’m very thrilled to have Tony Irwin as our special guest on this week’s podcast. Tony is the President & CEO at the FRPO (Federation of Rental Housing Providers of Ontario) and Interim President at CFAA (Canadian Federation of Apartment Associations) In this episode, we talk about the challenges faced by rental apartment owners as well as dealing with the government to address the housing crisis. Join us as we discuss the importance of members of FRPO and CFAA to committing to playing by the rules even as they play the critical role of providing rental housing. We address what has been referred to as “financialization of rental housing”. We also discuss the need for social housing expansion and we examine ways to ensure housing is really a right for all. Click the link below to listen to our conversation!
I’m very thrilled to have the National Head of Research at Colliers, Adam Jacobs, as our special guest on this week’s podcast. Here are some of the items we discussed: 1. A 25 basis points rate cut may not be enough to get real estate investors off the sidelines 2. Investment sales are back to normal levels even though it may not feel that way 3. Employees like hybrid work and Employees have more leverage than they had in the past. 4. Fundamentally, it makes sense for the Bank of Canada to cut rates. However, inflation in the States is still elevated and the Federal Reserve is therefore not cutting rates. The Bank of Canada is obviously influenced by the US Federal Reserve decisions Click the link below to learn more about our very insightful conversation!
I’m thrilled to have Matthew Young, President and CEO at Republic Developments, as our special guest on this week’s podcast. Here are a few items we discussed: 1. High rise: Republic developments’ focus is high rise and one of their key projects is for the development of 7,600 units in Scarborough. 2. Innovative Culture: Fostering an innovative culture within an organization is essential for staying competitive and adapting to changing environments. Republic developments is investing in key technologies to be more efficient. 3. Frog and Hot Water Analogy: This analogy is often used to illustrate the concept of gradual change and the importance of recognizing warning signs before a situation becomes critical. The same can be said about how the current housing affordability crisis came to be. Click the link below to listen to our conversation!
I’m very thrilled to have Jean-Pierre Poulin, Founder and CEO at Devcore as our special guest on this week’s podcast. Here’s an excerpt from JP during our conversation, “How cold should it be for people not to sleep outside with electricity and water… we’re in Canada, this is totally unacceptable. And everybody right now are shoveling this into somebody else backyard… it’s the federal government that should take care of them… no it’s the provincial… it should be the city… I think we have to stop doing that and we have to sit down together… we can… and just force the discussion and force action…immediate action.” Click the link below to listen our conversation!
I’m very thrilled to have Jeff Moffatt, President at SpaceWerx as our special guest on this week’s podcast. Here’s a quote from Jeff during our conversation, “Nothing great can get done by these micro interest groups coming up with opposition, that makes absolutely no sense. When you look at the city of Ottawa, with so much potential, there’s a all bunch of projects that are in the planning stages right now… A lot of times with these projects, great ideas happen, but they get knocked down, until they become mediocre, until they actually don’t work. And Landsdowne is great example where it got killed, it could have been amazing…” Click the link below to listen to our conversation!
I’m very thrilled to have Brad Bradford, the Councillor for Ward 19 Beaches East York in Toronto as our special guest on this week’s podcast. Here’s an excerpt from Brad during our conversation when discussing extremely restrictive zoning and policies. “…let’s be clear, all that was done very deliberately. And that was done because of the powers and forces and politics of the day that set those restrictions. And so… while it would have been advantageous through the 2000s and 2010s in that era were you had a politics that rewarded nimby councillors, I think that’s shifted. We’re not all the way there but I think it’s shifted rapidly and aggressively to say we recognize what happened over the past 20 years has kind of gotten us in this housing crisis.” Click the link below to listen to our conversation!