Send us a text

In this special episode, we look back at the show's first year. We recap the key highlights from each episode.

 (#17) Major Streets & Multiplex Housing in City of Toronto

 (#16) A Conversation With A Real Estate Developer

(#15) Limberlost Case Study: A Pioneering Mass Timber Project 

(#14) Building Code Changes, Opportunities & Shortcomings 

(#13)Urban Planning and the Housing Crisis; Andrew Ferancik

(#12) Real Estate Development 101: How to work with your team effectively?

(#11) Structural Systems, Code Changes & Mid-Rise Challenges - Raymond Van Groll

(#10) Interest Rates, Housing Supply & Other Complex Real Estate Problems - Murtaza Haider

(#9) Land Acquisition to Approvals - Hoordad Ghandehari

(#8) Refugee to Real Estate Developer: An Important Canadian Story!

(#7) Heritage, Adaptive Reuse, & Building Unique Projects - Joey Giaimo, 

(#6) Acoustic Engineering & Mass Timber Construction - Simon Edwards,

(#5) Urban Design & Development a Conversation - George Popper

(#4) Facade Systems, Climate Performance, and Important Decisions -Blair Davies

(#3) Engineering, Sustainability, and Real Estate Development - Cara Sloat 

(#2) Risk, Creativity, & Design Excellence: Real Estate De

For more information, please refer to RealEstateDevelopmentInsights.Com.

Send us a text

In this episode of the Real Estate Development Insights Podcast, I interview Michael Testaguzza and Robert McQuillan to discuss recent changes in the City of Toronto's housing policies (Major Streets & Multiplex Housing), focusing on expanding housing options in neighbourhoods. They delve into the specifics of multiplex and major street initiatives, guide developers through the steps to leverage these changes and reflect on the opportunities and challenges in urban planning. The conversation also explores broader implications for urban living and potential future developments. Overall, it is a comprehensive discussion aimed at demystifying current planning frameworks and celebrating recent advancements in urban development.

• What is the Multiplex definition in Toronto?
• What are the Major Streets in Toronto?
• What does EHON mean?
• What opportunities do Multiplexes and Major Street initiatives create for real estate developers?
• Do you still need to go through SPA (Site Plan Application) for a multiplex?
• What does as-of-right zoning mean?
• How does EHON Approval Timelines?

If you want to learn about our guest and their professional activities, please visit their website at https://thebiglierigroup.com/. 

For more information, please refer to RealEstateDevelopmentInsights.Com.

Send us a text

In this episode of the Real Estate Development Insights Podcast, seasoned real estate developer Shakeel Walji shares insights from his 30-year career in the industry. Shakeel discusses his unconventional journey from engineering to marketing and ultimately into real estate development, where he now manages multiple businesses. He offers practical advice for aspiring developers, emphasizing the importance of understanding financing, timelines, and the critical role of design in successful projects. Shakeel also stresses the need for resilience, continuous learning, and the ability to overcome challenges. He highlights key skills that new developers should focus on and provides a detailed account of a recent project that presented significant obstacles, illustrating the complexities and rewards of real estate development.

• Shakeel's Journey into Real Estate
• The Walsh Group and Marketing Strategies
• Challenges and Successes in Development
• Critical Decisions for New Developers
• Understanding Finance and Timelines
• Evaluating and Acquiring Land
• Design and Development Philosophy
• The Role of Consultants in Development
• Key Skills for New Developers
• Handling Construction Curveballs
• The Reality of Development Lifestyle

If you want to learn about our guest and their professional activities, please visit their website at: https://shercorp.ca/. 

For more information, please refer to RealEstateDevelopmentInsights.Com.

Send us a text

In this episode of the Real Estate Development Insights Podcast, I sit down with Phil Silverstein, a principal at Moriyama Teshima Architects, to discuss the significance of George Brown College's Limberlost Project as a Pioneering Project. Phil shares insights into his journey into regenerative design, the advantages of mass timber in sustainable architecture, and the groundbreaking innovations showcased in the Limberlost project. The conversation delves into the environmental benefits of using this system, the potential for its broader application in mainstream construction, and the critical need for resilient building practices. Phil also touches on future trends in prefabrication and its role in transforming how we think about architecture and sustainable urban development.

• What is Mass Timber?
• Why is Mass Timber Construction Considered Green?
• How can smaller real estate developers take advantage of this new technology?
• Why is George Brown College's Limberlost Building a critical project?
• What technical innovations were used in this project?
• What are some of the Benefits and Misconceptions around Mass Timber?
• Can MT be used in mainstream Residential Developments?
• Prefabrication: The Next Big Thing in Mass Timber Construction.

If you want to learn about our guest and their professional activities, please visit their website at: https://mtarch.com/. 

For Related Episodes, you can also refer to the interview I had with Simon Edwards on Episode #6 of the podcast. 

For more information, please refer to RealEstateDevelopmentInsights.Com.

Send us a text

In this Real Estate Development Insights Podcast episode, I interview Jack Keays, the principal at Vortex Fire, and we talk about Building Code changes, opportunities, and shortcomings for real estate developments. The discussions cover the evolution of building codes, their impact on the construction and real estate industries, and how developers can navigate these changes to unveil new opportunities. Key topics include the shift towards alternative solutions, innovations in mass timber and modular construction, fire safety advancements, and the implications of upcoming regulatory changes. Insights are provided on the importance of early code consultant involvement, the shift in regulatory frameworks, and the potential benefits and challenges of future code amendments, including single stairwell designs and prefabrication. The episode underscores the need for continuous learning and practical construction experience to meet evolving code requirements effectively.

• What is the Role of a Code Consultant in a Real Estate Development Project?
• What is an alternate solution in building codes, and how can you utilize it in your next development project?
• Evolution of Building Codes and Mass Timber Construction.
• 2025 Building Code Changes, opportunities, and shortcomings
• Single Staircase Buildings: Opportunities and Challenges
• Innovative Infill Solutions for Urban Areas
• Fire Safety and Insurance in Mass Timber Buildings
• Future of Building Codes: Performance-Based Provisions

If you want to learn about our guest and their professional activities, please visit their website at http://www.vortexfec.com/

For more information, please refer to RealEstateDevelopmentInsights.Com.

Send us a text

In this episode of the Real Estate Development Insights Podcast, I interview Andrew, a seasoned city planner from WND, about Urban Planning And The Housing Crisis, as he shares his journey into urban planning and his experiences working within municipalities like Mississauga. Andrew delves into the intricacies of planning, highlighting the importance of understanding both the art and science behind development decisions. He also touches on the role of planners as strategic advisors to developers, navigating guidelines and the complexities of balancing community concerns with the pressing need for more housing. Andrew discusses the challenges and opportunities within the current planning framework, offering advice for the new generation of planners eager to make a meaningful impact in shaping sustainable cities.

• What is the Role of a Planner in a Real Estate Development Project?
• Why is urban planning important for every modern society?
• How to Balance Development and Community?
• Shifting Standards in Neighborhood Planning
• Navigating Planning Approvals and Variances
• The Complexity of Planning Guidelines & what to do about it.
• How can urban planning improve the quality of life in the cities?
• Practical advice for new urban planning professionals.

If you want to learn about our guest and their professional activities, please visit their website at: https://wndplan.com/. 

For more information, please refer to RealEstateDevelopmentInsights.Com.

Send us a text

In this episode of the Real Estate Development Insights Podcast, Rod, the President and Owner of One Space Unlimited Inc., shares his extensive experience and insights into architectural and interior design services, primarily focused on the hospitality and multifamily residential industries across Canada. He emphasizes the importance of assembling the right team, understanding the development process, maintaining flexibility, and the critical role of patience and communication in construction projects. Through detailed discussions, Rod sheds light on best practices, potential pitfalls, and modern trends in the industry, aiming to guide and inspire the new generation of developers.

1. Client Relationships and Development Process
2. Critical Decisions for New Developers
3. The Role of Relationships in the Municipal Processes
4. Assembling the Right Team at the Right Time
5. The Importance of Patience and Collaboration
6. Developers & Addressing the Housing Crisis
7. Building Trust and Communication with Developers
8. How to Successfully Navigate the Construction Phase
9. Bad Recommendations and how to spot them.
10. The Magic of Flexibility in the success of a development project

For more information, please refer to RealEstateDevelopmentInsights.Com.

Send us a text

In this episode, Raymond Van Groll, Director of Building Structures at M.T.E., discusses the complexities and considerations of structural engineering in real estate development. Covering his extensive experience—from high-rise projects to mid-rise buildings—Raymond elaborates on various construction materials and systems, including concrete, wood, and hybrid systems. He highlights the implications of new building codes, the importance of watertight designs, and the evolving landscape of urban development in Toronto. The conversation also explores industry challenges, the need for streamlined site plan approvals, and the potential of future technologies like AI to revolutionize building design and construction processes.

• Structural Systems in Real Estate Development
• Concrete and Wood Structural Systems
• Hybrid Structural Systems
• Challenges in Mid-Rise Construction
• Upcoming Building Code Changes
• Water Tightness in Toronto Buildings 
• The Cost of Building Regulations
• Infrastructure and Urban Planning
• Streamlining the Building Process
• The Need for Standardization in Construction
• The Future of Construction and AI

For more information, please refer to RealEstateDevelopmentInsights.Com.

Send us a text

In this episode, Dr. Morteza Haider, professor at Toronto Metropolitan University and director of the Urban Analytics Institute, discusses his background and current work in real estate management and urban analytics. Dr. Haider delves into complex real estate problems in Canada, particularly the persistent housing affordability crisis. He explains the significant challenges faced by government policies in managing supply and demand, labour productivity issues, and systematic barriers such as NIMBYism and restrictive regulations. The conversation also explores historical housing market trends, the potential of mid-rise developments, and policy changes that might improve the housing situation. Lastly, Dr. Haider offers his perspective on the impact of AI on real estate and the importance of civic engagement in driving change for housing affordability.

• Complex Real Estate Problems
• Behavioural and Systemic Issues in Housing
• Interest Rates and Housing Market
• Historical Housing Market Trends
• Mid-Rise Building Feasibility
• Urban Planning and Density Misconceptions
• The Economics of Building Heights
• Historical Context and Housing Supply Issues
• AI in Real Estate: Potential and Limitations

For more information, please refer to RealEstateDevelopmentInsights.Com.

Send us a text

In this episode of the Real Estate Development Insights podcast, I welcome Hoordad Ghandehari, a licensed architect in Toronto with nearly three decades of experience. Hoordad shares insights from his journey, detailing his background, architectural practice, and significant milestones. The conversation encompasses crucial aspects of real estate development, particularly focusing on mixed-use and multifamily buildings.

Hoordad explains the importance of due diligence from land acquisition to approvals, design development, foundational architectural concepts, and key considerations for new developers in the real estate sector. He emphasizes the role of an experienced team, the impact of regulatory frameworks, the aesthetics of urban architecture, and the importance of sustainability in construction. This comprehensive discussion offers valuable guidance for developers and architects aiming for successful, well-integrated, and aesthetically appealing projects.

1. Understanding Real Estate Development Basics
2. Key Considerations for New Projects
3. Evaluating Initial Sketches and Site Suitability
4. Navigating the Approval Process
5. Balancing Personal Taste and Market Needs
6. The Intersection of Architecture and Marketing
7. Increasing Density Near Transit Stations
8. The Role of Balconies in Modern Architecture
9. Adapting to Changing Lifestyles
10. Encouraging Unique Architectural Designs
11. Advice for Aspiring Architects

To contact Hoordad, please go to: https://www.iconarchitects.ca/contact/

For more information, please refer to RealEstateDevelopmentInsights.Com.