Multifamily Real Estate Insights Podcast

In this episode, Sandy MacKay begins with an introduction to recent changes in CMHC policies and the use of surety bonds. He discusses the challenges and issues faced in development and construction, exploring both the risks and opportunities associated with MLI Select. Sandy provides insights into the Canadian real estate market, highlighting current investment trends in retail and office propert...

In this episode, Sandy MacKay provides an introduction and overview of Canada's housing market needs, setting the context for a discussion on future housing prices and policy reform. He delves into the need for improving regulatory efficiency to address the ongoing housing crisis. Sandy introduces "The Botanist" project, highlighting its innovative approach to multifamily housing. He is joined by...

In this episode, Sandy MacKay explores the Canadian housing market's recovery, regional price changes, and the pandemic's impact on trends. He discusses economic prospects, buyer confidence, interest rates, and affordability challenges, including immigration target cuts. Sandy also examines inventory levels, market stabilization, and Toronto's new Rental Renovation Licence Bylaw aimed at reducing...

In this episode, Sandy MacKay provides an introduction and overview before delving into Crombie REIT's multifamily developments and strategic acquisitions. He highlights Crombie's advantages in urban properties and their vision for long-term wealth creation. Sandy focuses on Crombie's efforts to develop multifamily sites across Canada and explores trends in long-term real estate value. The episode...

In this episode, Sandy MacKay begins with an exploration of the resilience and strategic benefits of multifamily real estate, setting the stage for a deeper understanding of its enduring appeal. He examines the illiquidity considerations of multifamily investments, comparing them to traditional investment vehicles. Sandy provides an overview of the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation's Improve...

In this episode, Sandy MacKay introduces the podcast and delves into Ruby Liu's ambitious retail transformation plan. He examines the opposition and concerns surrounding Liu's vision, providing a balanced perspective on the potential challenges and benefits. Sandy highlights Liu's optimism and explores the broader implications for the commercial real estate sector, offering insights into how these...

In this episode, Sandy MacKay welcomes listeners with an introduction before delving into the shifts within the multifamily sector and development strategies that are currently shaping the landscape. He explores market focus areas and identifies potential growth opportunities for investors. Sandy also discusses external acquisitions and expansion tactics, providing insights into how these strategi...

In this episode, Sandy MacKay kicks off with an introduction before diving into the acquisition and future plans of the Davie & Nicola project, highlighting its potential impact on the multifamily real estate market. He then introduces the CMHC Improvement Mortgage Loan Insurance, providing valuable financing insights for investors. Sandy shifts focus to the sale and market significance of The Ven...

In this episode, Sandy MacKay delves into the innovative office-to-residential conversion projects by Strategic Group, focusing on Calgary's Chevron Plaza. He discusses the project financials, timeline, and Strategic Group's experience in successful conversions. Sandy shifts the discussion to Ontario's rental market, examining the challenges landlords face and practices they employ. He addresses t...

In this episode, Sandy MacKay provides an overview of Toronto's multifamily housing market, focusing on recent bylaw adjustments impacting the sector. He interviews experts from Plexcon Construction, discussing their innovative approach to multi-unit conversions and projects, emphasizing energy efficiency and strategic planning. Sandy also covers BGO's capital commitments and investment strategy i...

In this episode, Sandy MacKay discusses the importance of property tax reductions for affordable multifamily housing, exploring various programs available to support this initiative. He introduces the CMHC Improvement Mortgage Loan Insurance product, highlighting its role in facilitating affordable housing developments. Sandy also delves into BentallGreenOak's $247 million Canadian Value-Add Limit...

In this episode, Sandy MacKay explores the transformative role of AI in multifamily real estate, starting with the breakdown of data silos and energy optimization. He discusses the impact of AI on predictive maintenance, capital planning, and enhanced connectivity, highlighting how these advancements streamline operations. Sandy examines how AI simplifies change management and fosters a unified in...

In this episode, Sandy MacKay delves into Camden Property Trust's Q2 2025 earnings, offering a comprehensive analysis of their financial performance and strategic positioning within the multifamily real estate market. He examines the risks posed by rising interest rates and evaluates the investment proposition for Camden Property Trust, considering its potential impact on investors and the broader...

In this episode, Sandy MacKay provides an overview of workforce housing, focusing on its importance and the benefits of lease-to-own models. He discusses recent acquisitions and partnerships by Aspen Real Estate Financial LLC, highlighting their role in workforce housing implementation. Sandy addresses the workforce housing shortage, examining potential solutions and the introduction of CMHC Impro...

In this episode, Sandy MacKay discusses the growing trend of office-to-residential conversions in Calgary, exploring the strategic implications for the multifamily market. He introduces a new bylaw in Toronto aimed at addressing renovictions and enhancing tenant protections, analyzing its potential impact on landlords and investors. Sandy delves into the implications of banning upward-only rent re...

In this episode, Sandy MacKay explores the implications of international trade agreements on the multifamily real estate market, highlighting opportunities created by sourcing strategies and domestic supply chains in response to tariffs. He discusses the potential effects of the Gordie Howe International Bridge on cross-border investments and the multifamily sector. Sandy is joined by Samantha She...

In this episode, Sandy MacKay explores the effects of climate change on Canadian real estate, discussing the role of AI in projecting rent trends and how climate exposure impacts immigration patterns. He delves into the economic factors and climate-related damages affecting the country, providing insights into the challenges and opportunities in the market. Sandy also highlights GWL Realty Advisor...

In this episode, Sandy MacKay delves into the sale and redevelopment of the Ellery Apartments in Cambridge, focusing on how zoning changes impact the project and its implications for the multifamily market. He examines KRP Properties' innovative office tower conversion into a high-end rental project in Kanata North, discussing the potential benefits and challenges. The episode also covers redevelo...

In this episode, Sandy MacKay examines Ottawa's new housing initiative and its implications for the multifamily market. He offers perspectives on Build Canada Homes, discussing the optimism surrounding the initiative and the challenges it faces. Sandy also addresses the impact of the delayed GST rebate on social-housing projects, analyzing how the delay affects project viability and timelines. The...

In this episode, Sandy MacKay delves into the CMHC Improvement Mortgage Loan Insurance, providing an overview of its financing options and benefits, such as down payment advantages and flexible financing. The discussion covers CMHC approval requirements, acceptable construction arrangements, and advance options for eligible improvement costs. Sandy also examines considerations for purchase price,...

In this episode, Sandy MacKay explores recent multifamily real estate developments, starting with Hullmark's acquisition of the Jane Finch Mall and their vision for its redevelopment. The discussion moves to KRP Properties' innovative approach of converting office spaces into residential apartments in Kanata North, offering insights into the potential benefits and challenges of such projects. Sand...

In this episode, Sandy MacKay discusses the rising construction costs in Canada and their impact on the real estate market, providing a detailed cost breakdown. He highlights key segments affected by cost acceleration and the challenges they face. Sandy examines the cooling Canadian real estate market, offering investment perspectives and identifying opportunities for investors amidst current mark...

In this episode, Sandy MacKay provides insights into multifamily investment, starting with ACRE's strategies and Daniel Jacobs' perspectives on multifamily credit. The discussion covers ACRE's approach to the market and its lending capabilities. Sandy delves into the CMHC Improvement Mortgage Loan Insurance, highlighting financing and construction options, loan assessment, and eligibility criteria...

In this episode, Sandy MacKay delves into current trends in the Canadian rental market, examining the influence of secondary markets and immigration caps on rental dynamics. The discussion shifts to rent trends and strategies renters can employ to cope with rising costs. Sandy also highlights the increasing interest of Canadian investors in U.S. markets, exploring the challenges and opportunities...

In this episode, Sandy MacKay opens with an introduction to Atlas Real Estate's recent acquisition of Perse Apartments, detailing the transaction roles and notable property features. The conversation continues with plans for property renovations and an analysis of the Canadian real estate market. Sandy addresses tenant rights, potential evictions, and the current housing market tensions in Toronto...