Well Off Podcast

Gary Hibbert is a leadership expert who delivers inspiring keynote presentations that challenge audiences to leverage their focus and relate to Gary's practical and humble approach to what matters most in their life and their business. He has extensive background in building businesses, corporate management and joint venture partnerships On this episode, we discuss:  Current real estate market and how he had to shift Active mortgages and private mortgages Building businesses and building a team You can reach out to Gary Hibbert by visiting www.smarthomechoice.ca Download a free report: "Multi-Unit Renovation Operations Order - A Guide to Starting a Renovation" Subscribe and review today! Instagram Youtube Spotify Apple Podcasts

3/1/26 • 31:27

Jude is the CEO and Acquisition Manager of Fergo Group, bringing an industrial engineering background and an entrepreneurial mindset to strategic real estate investing. From early business ventures to large-scale acquisitions, he's built a reputation for smart deal-making and market insight. Cliantha graduated as a mechanical engineer,  currently she is licensed real estate agent, and the operational lead behind Fergo Group's success. With expertise in process optimization, project execution, and property management, she ensures every deal runs seamlessly and delivers lasting value. On this episode we discuss: How they got started Fergo Group's Portfolio across Ontario Current projects they're working on Download a free report: "Multi-Unit Renovation Operations Order - A Guide to Starting a Renovation" Subscribe and review today! Instagram Youtube Spotify Apple Podcasts  

2/15/26 • 43:33

Kayla Andrade is a seasoned real estate investor with 24 years of experience, an ambassador for FrontLobby and the Landlord Credit Bureau, and the founder of Ontario Landlords Watch. She's a recognized housing advocate and consultant working at the intersection of landlords, tenants, and government — fighting to address systemic failures and advance practical, data-driven housing solutions. In this episode, Kayla joins us to unpack one of the most misunderstood housing topics today: rent reporting — what it is, why it matters, and how it's changing landlord-tenant dynamics and financial inclusion across Canada. In this episode we discuss: The key breakdowns in the current landlord-tenant system — and how tools like FrontLobby are helping fix them Why rental payment history is one of the most overlooked indicators in someone's financial profile The impact of reporting both on-time and late rent payments on behaviour for landlords and tenants alike How rent reporting can help responsible tenants build or rebuild credit when traditional systems fail them How platforms like FrontLobby reduce landlord risk without creating more conflict What excites her most about FrontLobby's direction and upcoming partnerships Connect with Kayla: olwlandlords@gmail.com Download a free report: "Multi-Unit Renovation Operations Order - A Guide to Starting a Renovation"   Subscribe and review today! Instagram Youtube Spotify Apple Podcasts  

2/1/26 • 33:52

Mark Loeffler is a successful realtor, triathlete, and seasoned real estate investor with an impressive portfolio spanning the Golden Horseshoe. Inspired by Rich Dad Poor Dad, Mark launched his investment journey, eventually scaling from single-family homes to multifamily apartment buildings in thriving markets. His story blends discipline, strategic thinking, and long-term vision.  In this episode, we dive into: How Mark Kickstarted His Real Estate Journey — from his first properties to expanding into the multifamily market The Transformative Influence of Rich Dad Poor Dad on his investment philosophy The Mindset of a Triathlete — and how endurance, consistency, and discipline translate directly into real estate success Scaling Strategies that took him from small residential homes to full apartment buildings What He's Learned Along the Way about navigating market shifts, taking calculated risks, and building long-term wealth through real estate Download a free report: "Multi-Unit Renovation Operations Order - A Guide to Starting a Renovation" Subscribe and review today! Instagram Youtube Spotify Apple Podcasts  

12/1/25 • 57:02

Dan Illes is a real‑estate professional and infrastructure strategist with experience in utility management, urban development and municipal‑private collaboration. Over the past decades, he has worked on multiple multi‑unit residential developments, helped implement sub‑metering systems and engaged with municipal partners to optimize infrastructure and service delivery. Dan brings a unique lens at the intersection of real estate, utilities and urban planning. On this episode, we discussed: Water Sub‑metering: It's not just about splitting utility bills. It changes occupant behaviour, creates more equitable cost‑allocation and can increase net operating income for multi‑unit assets. Infill Development: Urban infill offers huge potential — location benefits, sustainability, existing services. But you'll face tougher site access, regulatory complexity, community resistance and more constrained site layouts. Municipal Challenges: Cities often wrestle with adding units because of parking and lot size requirements and noise studies. Connect with Dan: Website: https://waterbillsolutions.com/ Social media: @illes_invest Subscribe and review today!

11/15/25 • 43:12

Ryan Carr is a successful real estate investor with an eye for overlooked opportunities that others miss. His unconventional journey, starting as a mechanic before transitioning into property development, gives him a distinctive perspective on the industry. Over more than a decade, Ryan has mastered land planning and portfolio management while building a reputation for innovative, out-of-the-box strategies that maximize property values. He's also a strong advocate for sustainable success, emphasizing the importance of work-life balance to avoid burnout.  In this episode, we discuss: Actionable investment strategies for real estate success How deep neighbourhood knowledge helps identify lucrative opportunities Creative zoning techniques that unlock hidden property potential Managing multiple properties without burning out Building strategic networks to create profitable joint ventures Connect with Ryan: Website: https://www.thehighestandbestuse.com Social media: @rwcarrinvestmentco Download a free report: "Multi-Unit Renovation Operations Order - A Guide to Starting a Renovation" Subscribe and review today! Instagram Youtube Spotify Apple Podcasts

11/1/25 • 45:04

Michael Zanzini is a Senior Mortgage Agent and Partner with Better Mortgage Select. With a career boasting over a decade of direct investor relations and portfolio structuring, Michael's goal is to assist his clients with the utmost care and attention to their financial goals.  On this episode, we discuss:  Exclusive Opportunities for Additional Dwelling Units (ADUs) Understanding B Lenders and Today's Alternative Mortgage Solutions Mortgage Lending Trends and The Impact of Stricter Requirements  You can reach out to Michael Zanzini at Michael@bmselect.ca   Download a free report: "Multi-Unit Renovation Operations Order - A Guide to Starting a Renovation" Subscribe and review today! Instagram Youtube Spotify Apple Podcasts      

10/15/25 • 43:31

From engineer to full-time developer, Dan Illes has built his career on turning overlooked lots into new opportunities. What began as a side hustle in real estate quickly grew into a passion for infill projects and custom home builds. With a sharp eye for urban planning and a knack for creative problem-solving, Dan has tackled everything from land severances to ground-up construction. In this episode, we will discuss: Practical strategies for real estate investing and development to boost your results Diving into the world of infill projects and land severances to uncover hidden potential How water submetering can add value to your multi-unit properties and cut costs Leveraging water submetering as a smart way to grow your net operating income (NOI) Navigating today's land and development market to spot high-return opportunities   Download a free report: "Multi-Unit Renovation Operations Order - A Guide to Starting a Renovation" Subscribe and review today! Instagram Youtube Spotify Apple Podcasts  

10/1/25 • 47:35

In this solo episode, Georges El Masri dives into the latest real estate market updates and what they mean for buyers, sellers, and investors right now.  On the Episode, Georges speaks on:  An Update on Ipro Realty Mortgage Default Rates Sales Activity in the GTA Compared to Average Home Prices Alternative Ways to Obtain a Mortgage The Great Pie Event Sign Up: Email Cynthia@elmteam.ca  Download a free report: "Multi-Unit Renovation Operations Order - A Guide to Starting a Renovation" Subscribe and review today! Instagram Youtube Spotify Apple Podcasts  

9/15/25 • 13:30

Mark Yataco is an experienced general contractor and real estate investor based in Toronto, specializing in value focused renovations for multi-family properties. Known for his attention to detail and commitment to creating durable, low-maintenance living spaces, he has helped countless investors reach their financial objectives. By offering tailored strategies and carefully selected products, Mark empowers investors to make smart choices that maximize their returns. With an emphasis on long-term value and reduced upkeep costs, Mark's background in sales and client service has earned him a reputation as a trusted partner for investors aiming to grow their multi-family portfolios. In this episode, we cover: Practical strategies for budget-friendly renovations in multi-family properties. Value-enhancing methods to boost property investment profitability. How to identify reliable contractors and build detailed renovation budgets. The importance of communication and adaptability in real estate investing success. Key red flags to watch for when evaluating contractor partnerships. You can reach out to Mark by visiting https://www.markyataco.com/ or find him on social media. Download a free report: "Multi-Unit Renovation Operations Order - A Guide to Starting a Renovation" Subscribe and review today! Instagram Youtube Spotify Apple Podcasts

9/1/25 • 46:44

Zack Brittain joins us to walk through three exciting projects that showcase the art of growth, stability, and innovation in real estate investing. In this episode, we explore: 1. Acquiring a 34-Unit Building in London with only 5% down How 5% down and affordable-rent strategies (40% of units) made the math work The deal structure, corporate setup, and the insider journey—from sourcing to closing 2. Stabilizing a Larger Multi-Unit in Ontario Tackling maintenance and clearing out lingering issues Building strong tenant communication and setting up efficient systems 3. Launching a New Infill Project in Downtown Kitchener Why building new—instead of renovating—can be smarter for investors and tenants alike The GP/LP deal structure behind this project How it's win–win for everyone: investors, the community, and future residents Project specifics: 10 stacked townhomes near the LRT, with 4 × 3-bed, 4 × 2-bed, 2 × 1-bed units, plus parking and purpose-built amenities Zack's insight will inspire anyone scaling portfolios or exploring new multifamily ventures. Have questions? Reach out to Zack at zack@phippsbrittain.com Download a free report: "Multi-Unit Renovation Operations Order - A Guide to Starting a Renovation" Subscribe and review today! Instagram Youtube Spotify Apple Podcasts

8/15/25 • 57:21

Glenn Gosling is a paralegal at Caveat LLP with extensive experience and deep knowledge of landlord-tenant law in Ontario. With a background in healthcare advocacy and a strong commitment to protecting the rights of both landlords and tenants, Glenn offers a well-rounded and insightful perspective. In this episode, we discuss: Certificate of Service Tenant vs. Landlord Biases Wait Times for Hearings Recent Changes to N13 / Renovictions Squatters and What to Do  Rent Stabilization Act Bill 227 - Cutting Red Tape Listen to Glenn's Previous Episode here: What Every Landlord Should Know with Glenn Gosling Download a free report: "Multi-Unit Renovation Operations Order - A Guide to Starting a Renovation" Subscribe and review today! Instagram Youtube Spotify Apple Podcasts

8/1/25 • 56:26

Originally from Poland, Mike Beer and his family immigrated to Canada. He is a highly accomplished real estate investor who has triumphed over numerous obstacles in his relentless pursuit of financial independence. With a strong focus on apartment buildings across Ontario, Mike is deeply committed to helping his investors build lasting wealth for their families. He candidly shares insights on balancing the freedom that comes with managing investor capital with the responsibility it demands, while also reflecting on his own path to achieving financial independence. On this episode, we discuss: The critical role of thorough due diligence in successful real estate investing How to strike the right balance between freedom and accountability when managing investor capital The mechanics of deal syndication and the benefits of passive investment opportunities Insights into the evolving real estate landscape in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic Strategies for building generational wealth through thoughtful and strategic real estate ventures You can reach out to Mike by visiting https://www.mikebeer.ca/   Download a free report: "Multi-Unit Renovation Operations Order - A Guide to Starting a Renovation" Subscribe and review today! Instagram Youtube Spotify Apple Podcasts

7/15/25 • 49:53

Glenn Gosling, a paralegal at Caveat LLP with a wealth of knowledge and experience in landlord-tenant law in Ontario. With a background in healthcare advocacy and a passion for fighting for the rights of both landlords and tenants, Glenn brings a unique perspective to the table.  In this episode, we discuss: The rights and responsibilities of landlords and tenants in Ontario for a smoother landlord-tenant relationship. An online portal that simTlifies the process of filing applications, saving you time and hassle. How to navigate rent increases and lease renewals effectively, ensuring fairness for both parties. Navigating eviction notices and legal processes confidently, following the proper procedures. Insights into typical inconsistencies in the Landlord and Tenant Board and how to address them, ensuring fairness and justice for all parties involved. You can contact Glenn by visiting https://caveatlegalservices.cliogrow.com/book or find him in social media. Download a free report: "Multi-Unit Renovation Operations Order - A Guide to Starting a Renovation" Subscribe and review today! Instagram Youtube Spotify Apple Podcasts  

7/1/25 • 60:01

In this special episode, I'm joined by my wife Mandy as we take a walk down memory lane and share how we each got started in real estate—before we ever met—and how our journey evolved once we came together. We open up about the different types of properties we each invested in individually, the strategies we learned along the way, and what changed (for the better!) when we became a team in both life and business. Whether you're investing solo, as a couple, or just curious about how real estate can grow with your relationships, this episode is packed with real talk, lessons learned, and a few laughs. What You'll Hear in This Episode: How Mandy and I got started in real estate The types of properties we each focused on early in our journeys What changed when we started investing as a couple The kinds of deals we've pursued together Advice for couples thinking about building a real estate portfolio together You can reach out to Mandy on instagram @mandy_elm and to me @welloffx Download a free report: "Multi-Unit Renovation Operations Order - A Guide to Starting a Renovation"  

6/15/25 • 22:28

Michel Chikwanine is a Congolese-born former child soldier who was abducted during the Great War of Africa. After escaping and resettling in Canada as a refugee, he became a passionate human rights advocate, motivational speaker, and co-author of the award-winning graphic memoir Child Soldier: When Boys and Girls Are Used in War. Now a United Nations Fellow for People of African Descent, Michel has spoken to over 800,000 people across North America, sharing his story to inspire hope, resilience, and social change. In this episode, we discuss:  Being born in the republic of Congo Disobeying his father, playing soccer and being abducted Forcefully being initiated into the army Running for 3 days and 3 nights in the jungle to escape as a 5 year old Healing from those experiences His journey to Canada Bullying in Canada and Africa You can reach out to Michel Chikwanine by visiting "michelchikwan" on Instagram. Download a free report: "Multi-Unit Renovation Operations Order - A Guide to Starting a Renovation" Subscribe and review today! Instagram Youtube Spotify Apple Podcasts

6/1/25 • 82:06

Dalia is the founder of Streetwise Mortgages and Streetwise Wealth, award-winning firms specializing in income property financing and real estate wealth advisory. With over $1.5 billion in funded mortgages, she has helped thousands of clients build wealth through real estate using her proprietary frameworks. Dalia is passionate about making financial freedom accessible through smart investing, strategic planning, and practical guidance across a wide range of real estate strategies. On this episode, we discuss:  Renewals: Fixed vs Variable How First Time Investors are Entering the Market Investment Strategies in Ontario Commercial Financing You can reach out to Dalia Barsoum by visiting https://streetwisemortgages.com/ or emailing info@streetwisemortgages.com to book a free consultation with Dalia (mention the "well off podcast") Download a free report: "Multi-Unit Renovation Operations Order - A Guide to Starting a Renovation" Subscribe and review today! Instagram Youtube Spotify Apple Podcasts

5/15/25 • 49:17

Matt and Laura are serial entrepreneurs who began investing in real estate at 19. They own a thriving construction business, Hawkins Contracting, located in Stouffville, ON. Their diverse portfolio includes student rentals, duplexes, and triplexes across Lindsay, Peterborough, Guelph and Hamilton.  Started investing at 19, with a portfolio now spanning student rentals, duplexes, and triplexes across Ontario. Their latest venture includes a 7-unit apartment building in Uxbridge, with plans to add 4 more units. Recently, they've shifted toward building new garden suites to maximize existing properties. The majority of their properties are self-managed. Now, they're focused on optimizing systems and delegating tasks to reclaim their time.   You can reach out to Laura & Matt at sidney_investments in Instagram. Download a free report: "Multi-Unit Renovation Operations Order - A Guide to Starting a Renovation" Subscribe and review today! Instagram Youtube Spotify Apple Podcasts

5/1/25 • 52:12

Mark Loeffler is a successful realtor, triathlete, and seasoned real estate investor with properties across the Golden Horseshoe. Inspired by Rich Dad Poor Dad, he began his journey in Newmarket and scaled from single-family homes to apartment buildings in markets like Hamilton. His discipline, both in athletics and investing, has been key to building lasting wealth through real estate. On this episode we discuss: How He Kicked Off His Real Estate Investments from Newmarket to Hamilton Rich Dad Poor Dad's influence on Mark The Mindset of a Triathelte Download a free report: "Multi-Unit Renovation Operations Order - A Guide to Starting a Renovation" Subscribe and review today! Instagram Youtube Spotify Apple Podcasts

4/15/25 • 60:27

Alex is a Vice President in Greybrook's Private Capital Markets Group. He began his career in commercial banking having spent nearly a decade in the field and splitting his time between American Express & JP Morgan. He left banking in order to pursue a personal passion for working in the TV/Film industry where he was a producer of several reality TV shows that aired in Canada & the USA. The experience he gained in TV production gave him the courage to establish himself as an entrepreneur. He has founded (and sold) companies in the software, cannabis, and retail sectors.  On this episode we discuss:  How Greybrook acquires properties and sites Completion of projects they had in 2024  Default rates with buyers and how they helped them  ADUs and Basement Suites You can reach out to Alex Nisenker by visiting https://greybrook.com/ Download a free report: "Multi-Unit Renovation Operations Order - A Guide to Starting a Renovation" Subscribe and review today! Instagram Youtube Spotify Apple Podcasts

3/15/25 • 49:28

Alfonso Cuadra, the Founder of Wealth Genius, is a real estate investor, speaker, author of the 2012 book From the Ground Up! He is the President/CEO of the Cuadra Group of Companies and has an extensive background in business and real estate management, investing and development. On this episode we discuss:  - Consumer vs. Investor Mindset  - Using Real Estate as a Secondary Stream of Income  - Alfonso's First Duplex Conversion - Importance of Doing Fulfilling Things in Life - How Wealth Genius was Built You can reach out to Alfonso Cuadra by visiting https://alfonsocuadra.com/ Download a free report: "Multi-Unit Renovation Operations Order - A Guide to Starting a Renovation" Subscribe and review today! Instagram Youtube Spotify Apple Podcasts

3/1/25 • 29:38

Andy Tran founded Suite Additions to address the growing need for housing solutions while helping investors achieve financial security through housing densification strategies. As a registered House and Small Buildings Designer, real estate investor, and small infill developer, Andy combines his expertise with a passion for creating smarter, more efficient communities.  In this episode, we discuss: - The step-by-step process of adding additional units to your property - How investors are leveraging new zoning rules to increase density - The financial and community benefits of adding extra units You can reach out to Andy Tran by visiting https://www.suiteadditions.com/ Download a free report: "Multi-Unit Renovation Operations Order - A Guide to Starting a Renovation" Subscribe and review today! Instagram Youtube Spotify Apple Podcasts

2/15/25 • 30:57

"Your network is your net worth." Brooke embodies this philosophy by generously sharing her knowledge, fostering connections, and empowering new investors. Alongside her trusted team and partners, Brooke has built and continues to grow an impressive portfolio in both Canada and the US. She leverages diverse strategies, including Lease Options, Income Properties, Wholesaling, and Private Lending, to achieve success in real estate. On this episode we discuss:  - Leaving Ontario to invest in other markets - Transitioning from Rent-to-Own and Private Lending to multifamily properties and flips - Setting up your investments to ensure that the legacy you leave lasts You can reach out to Brooke Shang by visiting https://trustyourtalent.ca/topics/brooke-shang-2/ Download a free report: "Multi-Unit Renovation Operations Order - A Guide to Starting a Renovation" Subscribe and review today! Instagram Youtube Spotify Apple Podcasts

2/1/25 • 46:04

Spencer and Ashley are Niagara- based real estate investors with a shared love of travel, fitness, and hospitality. They started investing in 2018 and have since expanded their portfolio to 11 units with a mix of short- term and long-term rentals. Spencer and Ashley co-founded Travelluxe Inc. in 2019, a short-term rental management company, which currently manages over 45 units across Canada. Their love for travel has brought them all around the world where they are able to mix work and pleasure by creating systems that allow them to be location independent. On this episode we discuss:  - How to increase your rate per night in short term rentals - Expanding from the Ontario market into New York - How and what to look for in properties when investing You can reach out to Spencer and Ashley by visiting http://www.spencerandashley.com/ Download a free report: "Multi-Unit Renovation Operations Order - A Guide to Starting a Renovation" Subscribe and review today! Instagram Youtube Spotify Apple Podcasts

1/15/25 • 35:48

Cliff Ford with Skyview Realty specializes in the sale of apartment buildings throughout Ontario. He has been involved in the sale of over 250 residential buildings throughout his real estate career. Cliff also plays a key role in leading the acquisition process for Skyview's own growing portfolio. His extensive experience offers valuable insights into the apartment investment landscape. On this episode we discuss:  - The challenges investors are facing in the 30-40+ units apartment building space today - Proven strategies for stabilizing portfolios during uncertain times - Creative ways to convert under-utilized "dead" spaces into income-generating assets - The latest trends in Vendor Take Backs and how they're shaping deals You can reach out to Cliff Ford by visiting http://www.skyviewrealty.com/ Download a free report: "Multi-Unit Renovation Operations Order - A Guide to Starting a Renovation" Subscribe and review today! Instagram Youtube Spotify Apple Podcasts

1/1/25 • 41:58

Kasey Wong is a seasoned real estate investor with a focus on apartment buildings. With over 3,000 units under his management, Kasey brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. His journey is filled with fascinating stories and insights that highlight his expertise in navigating the complexities of real estate investing. On this episode we discuss:  - The recent challenges Kasey has faced over the past few years - The biggest business mistake he's made and what he learned from it - A market update, including insights on immigration trends - An inside look at Kasey's latest projects and ventures You can reach out to Kasey Wong by visiting: www.cacoeli.com Download a free report: "Multi-Unit Renovation Operations Order - A Guide to Starting a Renovation" Subscribe and review today! Instagram Youtube Spotify Apple Podcasts

12/15/24 • 63:33

With a background in structural engineering and construction, Ara Poladian has found his way in real estate investing by doing larger scale renovations projects within multi-family real estate in the Cambridge/Kitchener area. Also a licensed Realtor, Ara is passionate about helping other investors get into great investment properties.   On this episode, we discuss: Ara's New Project: Aqusiiton of Two Sixplexes Progess Update on his 12-Unit Building in the Kitchener/Waterloo area Adding Two Units to a Fourplex Running into Structural Issues in Investment Properties What the Costs and Process Could Look Like for Remediating Structural Issues   You can reach out to Ara Poladian by visiting https://poladianconstruction.ca Download a free report: "Multi-Unit Renovation Operations Order - A Guide to Starting a Renovation" Subscribe and review today! Instagram Youtube Spotify Apple Podcasts    

12/1/24 • 55:18

After a successful 10-year career in corporate finance, Stefanie Beharry decided to merge two of her greatest passions: finance and real estate. Seeing that financial management was a common challenge for many investors, she developed a comprehensive solution and and founded what is now known as REI Finance. On This Episode, We Discuss:  - What Stefanie's REI Finance is all about  - Services available for investors that are looking for financial management support - Her journey into real estate investing and what it has evolved into today   Download a free report: "Multi-Unit Renovation Operations Order - A Guide to Starting a Renovation" Subscribe and review today! Instagram Youtube Spotify Apple Podcasts

11/15/24 • 31:47

Cherry Chan, CPA, CA, is not only an experienced real estate tax professional but also a seasoned real estate investor, author, blogger and a sought-after public speaker with a passion for helping individuals and businesses navigate the complex world of real estate taxation. With a wealth of knowledge and expertise, Cherry specializes in providing tailored tax strategies to maximize savings and minimize liabilities for clients in the real estate industry. On this episode, we discuss:  Closing on her investment property in Texas  Investing in properties in the United States Pros & cons, background work, and corporate structure she used to purchase that foreign investment You can reach out to Cherry Chan by visiting https://realestatetaxtips.ca/ Download a free report: "Multi-Unit Renovation Operations Order - A Guide to Starting a Renovation" Subscribe and review today! Instagram Youtube Spotify Apple Podcasts

11/1/24 • 33:58

Josh Findlay is a seasoned mortgage broker based in Ontario with over half a decade of experience in the financial services industry. He is renowned for his expertise in helping clients achieve their investment goals, particularly in the multifamily real estate sector. On this episode, we discuss:  - Strategies to Purchase Property with Reduced Upfront Funds Needed - Refinancing and Exit Strategies  - CMHC Financing and Bridge Loans - Ways to Make Your Investment as Effective and Efficient as Possible You can reach out to Josh Finlay by visiting https://bldfinancial.ca/contact-us/ Download a free report: "Multi-Unit Renovation Operations Order - A Guide to Starting a Renovation" Subscribe and review today! Instagram Youtube Spotify Apple Podcasts

10/15/24 • 52:27