Veteran investor Dennis Mitchell of Starlight Capital shares nearly 20 years of hard-earned insights into real estate investing—debunking myths, unpacking market fundamentals, and explaining why there is potential for serious upside in the REIT sector—if you have the discipline to wait.

In this episode of In the Money with Amber Kanwar, Dennis lays out his investing playbook: focus on recurring cash flow, irreplaceable assets, low leverage, and owner-minded management. He doesn’t claim to be a genius—just someone with more data, a longer time horizon, and a process that keeps emotions out of decision-making.

He also tackles Canada’s housing crisis with refreshing clarity. From immigration and supply shortages to municipal red tape and affordability myths, Dennis offers bold, actionable perspectives—and pushes for real government leadership and a national plan. As he says, “Nobody lives in a national house.”

He answers your questions on Minto Apartment REIT (MI.UN), RioCan REIT (REI.UN), SmartCentres REIT (SRU.UN), InterRent REIT (IIP.UN) —  which received a takeover bid the day of our release — and more — offering his honest assessments of their strengths, weaknesses, and where he’s putting his capital. He also shares his Pro Picks, the REITs he believes are best positioned today, including Killam Apartment REIT (KMP.UN) for its dominant position in Atlantic Canada and exposure to manufactured home communities, Chartwell Seniors Housing REIT (CSH.UN) for its post-pandemic growth in seniors housing, and VICI Properties (VICI), a U.S.-based REIT with triple-net leases, 100% occupancy, and built-in inflation protection.

Whether you're an investor, policymaker, or just trying to understand the real estate landscape, this conversation is packed with substance, strategy, and real-world relevance.

Timestamps

00:00 Show intro 

01:50 Why real estate in anything but boring 

04:00 Why REITs look attractive right now - the three sources of return 

05:25: Dennis’s real edge in real estate investing and why you should listen to him 

07:00 Understanding the REIT sector and the rate environment
10:00 Why isn’t there more M&A in the REIT space?
12:50 Dennis’s refreshing thoughts on Canada’s housing problem and how he thinks we can solve it
18:35 There’s no such thing as affordable housing
25:10 ITM Mailbag: Dennis’s thoughts on Minto Apartment REIT (MI.UN-TSX)
27:45 Is RioCan REIT (REI.UN-TSX) a buy for a long-term hold?
31:10 Dennis’s view on Smartcentres REIT (SRU.UN-TSX) 

34:20 Is Dream Industrial REIT (DIR.UN-TSX) a buy and hold?
36:10 Dennis’s view on Northwest Healthcare Properties REIT (NWH.UN-TSX)
39:50 What does Dennis think about Interrent REIT (IIP.UN-TSX)?
43:45 Dennis’s Pro Picks 

Sponsors
This episode is sponsored by BMO InvestorLine. Learn how you can earn up to $3,500 cash back when you open a new account at bmo.com/onlineinvesting?ecid=pr-2886232INV1-JNBMO16

For over 25 years, Raymond James has been helping Canadians achieve their financial goals. Visit raymondjames.ca today to discover how you can live a life well planned.

Pro Picks is brought to you by ATB Financial. With $62 billion in assets, ATB Financial is powering possibilities for more than 820,000 financial services clients in Alberta and beyond. Visit ATB.com/inthemoney for more information

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DISCLAIMERS 

The information provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or professional advice.The views expressed by the host and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any organization or company. The host and guests may maintain positions in any securities discussed on the podcast. Always consult with a qualified financial advisor or professional before making any investment decisions.

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The opinions and views expressed in this presentation are those of the presenter and not necessarily BMO InvestorLine Inc. This presentation is prepared as a general source of information and is not intended to provide legal, investment, accounting or tax advice, and should not be relied upon in that regard. If legal or investment advice or other professional assistance is needed, the services of a competent professional should be obtained. Any information contained in this presentation does not constitute and shall not be deemed to constitute advice, an offer to sell/purchase or as an invitation or solicitation to do so for any entity. The content of this presentation is based on sources believed to be reliable, but its accuracy cannot be guaranteed. BMO InvestorLine Inc. and its affiliates, sponsors and employees do not accept responsibility for the content and makes no representation as to the accuracy, completeness or reliability of the content and hereby disclaims any liability with regards to the same.

In the Money delivers expert stock picks, market analysis, and timely investing insights. Hosted by business journalist Amber Kanwar, each episode features interviews with top portfolio managers and financial experts. Covering everything from ETFs and Canadian stocks to global investing trends, dividend strategies, and risk management, this show is made for DIY investors, stock market enthusiasts, and anyone looking to sharpen their financial strategy.

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