In this episode of the Hidden Upside Podcast, host Chris Shebib sits down with Nancy Dalgard, an inspiring entrepreneur with a multifaceted background spanning trades, accounting, and real estate investing. Nancy delves into her remarkable journey, beginning as a sheet metal mechanic and eventually transitioning to become the owner of both an accounting firm and a construction company.

Throughout the conversation, Nancy shares her rich experiences in the real estate sector, including her ventures in flipping houses, managing duplexes, and overseeing mixed-use properties. She provides valuable insights into the challenges and rewards of these endeavors, offering listeners a glimpse into the complexities of real estate investment.

A key highlight of the discussion is Nancy's emphasis on understanding personal risk tolerance. She explains how recognizing one's comfort level with risk is crucial in making informed investment decisions. Nancy also underscores the significance of proper planning, detailing how meticulous preparation can mitigate potential pitfalls in real estate projects.

Moreover, Nancy stresses the importance of continuous learning, sharing how staying informed and adaptable has been instrumental in her success. She recounts various lessons learned from her diverse experiences, illustrating how each step in her career has contributed to her growth as an entrepreneur.

Looking to the future, Nancy reveals her ambitious plans to develop a 55-plus gated community. She discusses the strategic planning involved in such a project and highlights the necessity of adaptability in the ever-evolving real estate market. Her vision for this community reflects her commitment to creating value and her ability to anticipate and respond to market needs.

Overall, this episode offers listeners a wealth of knowledge and inspiration, showcasing Nancy Delgard's journey and the principles that have guided her success in the dynamic world of real estate investing.

Connect with Nancy

Ever thought about the intersection of joy and real estate investing? In our latest episode, Avery shares his journey from Airbnb arbitrage to creating an innovative land development business featuring affordable, non-permanent cottages in Halifax, Nova Scotia.

The discussion highlights Avery's hard-earned lessons on adaptability, stress management, and leveraging adversity to achieve success. Avery also shares the various paths to income replacement, long-term wealth, and the pursuit of passion and fun.

Learn about his business model that avoids traditional zoning and building permits, the challenges faced, and what's in store as he aims to scale his pioneering project across North America.

This episode is a treasure trove for investors and entrepreneurs looking for inspiration and practical insights into navigating and excelling in complex real estate markets.

Here are some of the key takeaways and insights from this episode:

• Joy Over Cash Flow: Avery emphasizes the importance of enjoying the investment journey rather than just focusing on cash flow and long-term wealth. It's about finding what makes you happy and integrating that into your work.

• Adaptability is Key: Facing regulatory challenges in the short-term rental market? Avery's pivot to land development with Porter's Peak Adventure Getaway is a masterclass in adaptability.

• Innovative Business Models: Learn about Avery's unique approach to creating affordable cottages with a revenue-sharing model and land lease agreements. This strategy not only provides affordable housing but also creates a new asset class.

• Community and Relationships: Avery highlights the power of leaning into your network and seeking help. Building strong relationships can lead to valuable insights and opportunities.

• Feedback and Market Alignment: "If the world wants red hats, sell them red hats." Avery's mentor's advice underscores the importance of aligning your offerings with market demands.

This episode is packed with inspiring stories and practical advice for anyone interested in real estate investing. Whether you're a seasoned investor or just starting out, Avery's journey offers valuable lessons on how to navigate challenges, embrace creativity, and find joy in the process.

Connect with Chris

https://shebib.com/

https://www.facebook.com/shebib

https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisshebib/

https://twitter.com/chrisshebib

https://www.youtube.com/c/chrisshebib

Connect with Avery

https://www.porterspeak.com/

https://www.instagram.com/porterspeak/

https://www.facebook.com/porterspeak

In this episode of The Hidden Upside Podcast I provide an in-depth Economic Update exploring the ongoing balancing act by the Bank of Canada and the Federal Reserve as they strive to address economic instability without causing unsustainable growth in the real estate market.

I discuss key performance indicators (KPIs) like unemployment, foreclosures, GDP, and mortgage renewals, emphasizing their impact on rate drops and policy changes.

The podcast also explores recent policy updates including CMHC's changes to support first-time homebuyers, new guidelines on mortgage renewals, and the impacts of immigration trends on housing.

The episode concludes with actionable insights for buyers and sellers and strategic recommendations for both residential and investment clients.

Connect with Chris

https://shebib.com/

https://www.facebook.com/shebib

https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisshebib/

https://twitter.com/chrisshebib

https://www.youtube.com/c/chrisshebib

In this episode of the Hidden Upside Podcast, Chris Shebib interviews Ara Poladian, a professional engineer and real estate investor, who shares his journey from structural engineering to real estate investing. Ara discusses his experience with duplex conversions amidst the COVID-19 pandemic and his transition to larger multifamily projects, including a challenging renovation of a distressed 12-unit building.

The discussion covers the complexities of repositioning multifamily properties, the importance of local investing, tenant management, cash-for-keys strategies, and leveraging CMHC’s MLI Select program. Ara also emphasizes the value of being hands-on and the long-term mindset crucial for successful real estate investing.

Ara provides valuable insights on:

• The importance of understanding your risk appetite

• Why proximity to your investments matters

• How to approach tenant negotiations during renovations

• The potential in adding units to existing properties

• Why staying local can be advantageous in real estate investing

Whether you're a seasoned investor or just starting out, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge on value-add opportunities and purpose-built multifamily investing. Ara's candid discussion about the challenges and rewards of his investment strategy will give you a realistic perspective on what it takes to succeed in this niche.

"I wouldn't recommend it to like 90, 95% of the investors out there… I like to take risks. I will take risks in life."

Ara's honesty about the suitability of his strategy for different investors is refreshing and highlights the importance of finding the right fit for your investment style.

Ready to explore the hidden upsides of real estate investing? Tune in to gain insights that could shape your investment journey and potentially uncover opportunities you hadn't considered before.

Connect with Ara Poladian:

https://www.instagram.com/poladianconstruction/

http://www.poladianconstruction.ca/

Connect with Chris

https://shebib.com/

https://www.facebook.com/shebib

https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisshebib/

https://twitter.com/chrisshebib

https://www.youtube.com/c/chrisshebib

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the challenges facing landlords in Ontario? You're not alone. The rental market has shifted dramatically, and many investors are struggling to adapt. But don't pack your bags for greener pastures just yet – there's still plenty of opportunity if you know where to look.

In this eye-opening conversation with Hart Togman, co-founder of Rent Panda, we explore the current state of Ontario's rental market and uncover strategies for success in today's challenging environment. From the evolving tenant landscape to the impact of recent legislation, we leave no stone unturned.

Here's what you can expect to learn from this episode:

• The truth about tenant quality in today's market and how to attract the best renters

• Why vacancy periods are lengthening and how to adjust your investment strategy

• The surprising trends in rental rates across different Ontario markets

• How Bill 23 is creating new opportunities for savvy investors

• Why diversification might be the key to balancing risk in your portfolio

Hart shares invaluable insights on how Rent Panda is leveraging technology and partnerships to help landlords navigate these choppy waters. From AI-powered tenant screening to innovative property management models, discover the tools that can give you an edge in today's market.

Perhaps most importantly, we discuss the critical importance of self-evaluation as an investor. Are you truly cut out for the challenges of being a landlord in this market? Hart offers a fresh perspective on finding joy in the journey of real estate investing, rather than fixating solely on the end goal.

Whether you're a seasoned property owner or considering your first investment, this conversation provides valuable insights to help you thrive in Ontario's evolving rental landscape. Don't miss out on the strategies that could make all the difference in your real estate success story.

About Hart Togman

Hart Togman is the Founder and CEO of Rent Panda - a rental services company specializing in tenant placement, property management and software for small landlords across Ontario. Hart believes that everyone can be a landlord and works with his team to provide the services investors need to make that vision a reality. Placing and managing tenants can be a pain, but Hart is no stranger to doing hard things - with a passion for mountain climbing, cold plunges and getting uncomfortable. With over 5000 tenants placed and properties under management in over 20 cities in Ontario, Rent Panda is on a mission to change the Canadian rental landscape one property at a time.

Connect with Hart

https://www.rentpanda.ca/

https://www.facebook.com/RentPanda

https://www.linkedin.com/company/rent-panda

https://www.instagram.com/rentpanda/

Connect with Chris

https://shebib.com/

https://www.facebook.com/shebib

https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisshebib/

https://twitter.com/chrisshebib

https://www.youtube.com/c/chrisshebib

Are you curious about the latest trends in Durham's real estate market? I've got you covered with a comprehensive update that breaks down the key performance indicators and what they mean for buyers and sellers.

In this episode, we'll dive into the October stats and compare them to BMO's predictions for 2025. You'll get an insider's look at how the market is shifting and what it means for your real estate decisions.

• The current state of active listings and sales volume in Durham

• How average sales prices are trending month-over-month

• Why the absorption rate is a critical indicator of market balance

• What BMO's economic predictions suggest for the coming quarters

• Actionable insights for both buyers and sellers in today's market

• Active listings are down, while sales volume is up

• We've returned to a balanced market with a 40% absorption rate

• Average days on market are holding steady around 22-23 days

• Pricing strategies are crucial in the current market conditions

If you're a buyer, now might be an excellent time to enter the market. With high inventory, stable prices, and predicted rate drops, you could find yourself in a uniquely advantageous position.

For sellers, while the market isn't seeing dramatic price increases, the uptick in sales volume could present opportunities, especially if you're considering selling an investment property.

I'll break down the data by region, giving you a granular view of how different areas within Durham are performing. Plus, I'll share my theory on why we're seeing these trends and what they could mean for the future of our local real estate market.

Whether you're looking to buy, sell, or simply stay informed, this market update provides the insights you need to navigate Durham's real estate landscape with confidence.

Tune in to get all the current data and learn how to position yourself for success in this evolving market!

Connect with Chris

https://shebib.com/

https://www.facebook.com/shebib

https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisshebib/

https://twitter.com/chrisshebib

https://www.youtube.com/c/chrisshebib

Do you know what a Fractional CFO is? In this episode, I sit down with Stefanie Beharry, a CPA and Fractional CFO, to explore how financial expertise can revolutionize your investment strategy.

As real estate investors, we often focus on property acquisition and management, but overlook the critical role of financial management. Stefanie sheds light on how a Fractional CFO can provide high-level financial expertise without the hefty price tag of a full-time executive.

Stefanie emphasizes the importance of understanding your numbers, not just for tax purposes, but for making strategic decisions about your portfolio. She explains how proper financial management can:

• Reduce stress and uncertainty in your business

• Help you make informed decisions about acquiring or selling properties

• Identify cash flow issues before they become critical

• Position you to take advantage of market opportunities

Here's what you can expect to learn from this insightful conversation:

• The difference between a bookkeeper, accountant, and CFO - and when you need each

• How to determine if your real estate portfolio is ready for fractional CFO services

• Strategies for managing cash flow and building reserves in uncertain market conditions

• The importance of regular financial check-ins and how they can prevent costly mistakes

• How to leverage financial data to make strategic decisions about your real estate portfolio

Whether you're a seasoned investor or just starting out, this episode will challenge you to think differently about the financial side of your real estate business. Stefanie provides actionable advice on how to gain clarity on your numbers and use that information to grow your portfolio strategically.

Don't miss this opportunity to gain insights from a financial expert who understands the unique challenges of real estate investing. Tune in now to discover how you can use financial expertise to uncover hidden opportunities in your real estate business.

Stefanie Beharry is a CPA with extensive experience in corporate finance. She now runs her own accounting firm specializing in fractional CFO services for real estate investors across Canada and the United States. Her expertise lies in helping investors make strategic financial decisions to grow their portfolios and achieve their long-term goals.

Connect with Stefanie

Linked In https://www.linkedin.com/company/rei-finance

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

FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550295974229

Connect with Chris

https://shebib.com/

https://www.facebook.com/shebib

https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisshebib/

https://twitter.com/chrisshebib

https://www.youtube.com/c/chrisshebib

Are you considering buying or selling a home? If so, you're in for a treat. In this episode, I sit down with Brad Bojda from Twin Peaks Home Inspection to discuss the crucial role of home inspections in real estate transactions.

With the market shifting, home inspections are making a comeback as a viable option for buyers and sellers alike. Brad shares his insights on the inspection process, pricing, and some of the most unusual findings he's encountered during his career.

• The importance of home inspections in today's real estate market
• How pre-listing inspections can benefit sellers
• Common issues found during home inspections
• The role of thermal imaging in detecting hidden problems
• Tips for choosing a qualified home inspector

• Home inspections are becoming more common again as the market balances out
• Pre-listing inspections can help sellers address issues before listing their property
• Thermal imaging can detect hidden problems like water leaks and insulation gaps
• New construction homes may benefit from third-party inspections
• Choosing an experienced inspector with proper credentials is crucial

Brad shares some fascinating stories from his inspections, including encounters with angry raccoons and discovering major plumbing issues caused by tree roots. These anecdotes highlight the unexpected challenges that can arise during a home inspection and the value of having a professional assess your property.

"Every house is like a puzzle. So you get to piece it together and help people make good real estate decisions."

Whether you're a first-time homebuyer, a seasoned investor, or a curious homeowner, this episode offers valuable information about the home inspection process and its importance in real estate transactions. Don't miss out on these expert insights that could save you time, money, and stress in your next property deal.

Connect with Brad here

https://twinpeaksinspections.ca/

https://www.facebook.com/twinpeaksinspections

https://www.instagram.com/twinpeaks.inspections/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/twin-peaks-property-inspections

https://www.tiktok.com/@twinpeaksinspections

Connect with Chris Shebib here:
https://shebib.com/
https://www.facebook.com/shebib
https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisshebib/
https://twitter.com/chrisshebib
https://www.youtube.com/c/chrisshebib