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It seems like everywhere you turn, investors are talking about adding basement suites, garden suites, or converting homes into small multiplexes — and for good reason. With housing affordability and supply top of mind across Canada, local governments are finally opening the door for more homeowners and investors to create additional rental units on existing properties.

In this week’s episode, we’re joined by Andy Tran, founder of Suite Additions and author of Legal 2nd Suites – A Beginner’s Guide. Andy has helped hundreds of investors design, plan, and build legal secondary suites that not only meet code but also make the numbers work.

We get into:
• Why more cities are encouraging additional units and what that means for investors.
• How to know if your property qualifies for a basement, garden, or laneway suite.
• The design mistakes that can hurt your ROI.
• Realistic costs, timelines, and what lenders and appraisers are looking for.

If you’re serious about building long-term cash flow and increasing your property’s value, this episode is packed with insights you can put into action. Tune in to learn how you can turn one property into multiple income streams — legally and profitably.

Follow Andy on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/suite_additions/

Learn More About Our Trusted Partner - FrontLobby

FrontLobby is a platform designed for Landlords, Property Managers, and Renters. Our mission is to improve the rental industry for everyone. We believe in creating a win-win scenario where Housing Providers and Renters prosper.

Would you like to learn more? Visit:
https://thesavvyinvestor.ca/front-lobby 

Savvy Investor Links:
Website: https://thesavvyinvestor.ca 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/savvy_investors 
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thesavvyinvestor

Join our FREE Savvy Investor Facebook Community:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/341243106757064

Disclaimer: The views and advice expressed on this podcast are those of the participants and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or beliefs of the podcast host or affiliated parties. The content is for entertainment purposes only and should not be considered as professional financial, legal, or investment advice. Listeners are encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with qualified professionals before making any financial decisions. The podcast host and producers are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided.

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The real estate market might be cooling in parts of Canada, but in Edmonton? There’s a different story unfolding — and it’s one savvy investors are paying close attention to.

In this episode, Michael Ponte sits down with Calvin Hexter, a top investor-focused Realtor and Savvy Investor Trusted Partner, to break down what’s really happening in Edmonton right now. From affordable price points to creative deal structures and overlooked pockets of opportunity, this is the kind of boots-on-the-ground insight you won’t hear in the headlines.

What You’ll Learn:

• What’s actually going on in the Edmonton real estate market
• Key indicators that separate a temporary dip from a long-term trend
• Where the best off-market and multi-family deals are popping up
• Why now might be a smart time to get off the sidelines
• How to get ahead of the curve going into 2026

Whether you’re new to investing or looking to grow your portfolio in a market with serious upside, this episode is packed with real talk and real strategies from someone who knows the city inside and out.

Follow Calvin on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/calvin.hexter/

Learn More About Our Trusted Partner- Equiton

Proudly Canadian-owned and operated, Equiton is a leading private equity firm that delivers notable returns for investors. We believe in making private real estate investing accessible to all Canadians and providing easy access to all types of investment-grade real estate through our proven high-performing investment solutions. 

We offer true diversification, full transparency, and all the benefits of real estate investing without the difficulties of financing, tenant management, building maintenance or project management.

Would you like to learn more? Visit:
https://thesavvyinvestor.ca/equiton 

Savvy Investor Links:

Website: https://thesavvyinvestor.ca
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/savvy_investors
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thesavvyinvestor   

Join our Savvy Investor community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thesavvyinvestor

Disclaimer: The views and advice expressed on this podcast are those of the participants and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or beliefs of the podcast host or affiliated parties. The content is for entertainment purposes only and should not be considered as professional financial, legal, or investment advice. Listeners are encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with qualified professionals before making any financial decisions. The podcast host and producers are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided.

Let Us Know What You Thought Of The Episode

Tired of scrolling MLS and finding nothing but overpriced listings and bidding wars? This episode is for you.

This week, Michael Ponte is flying solo — and he’s pulling back the curtain on one of the most valuable skill sets in real estate investing: how to consistently find off-market deals that most people never even hear about.

If you’ve been in the game for a while, you know it’s getting tougher to find cash-flowing properties that actually make sense. But here’s the truth: the best real estate deals rarely hit the open market — and when they do, it’s often too late.

In this episode, Michael shares:

• Why off-market properties give investors a massive edge
• What really motivates a seller to say “yes” to a private offer
• The exact strategies his students are using to find deals without competition
• How to build long-term relationships with connectors like property managers, lawyers, and accountants
• Simple tips to generate leads through driving for dollars, direct mail, social media, and more
• How to structure win-win deals with creative financing options like VTBs and seller carrybacks

You’ll also hear real stories of investors picking up high-equity multifamily properties through nothing more than a conversation and a bit of consistency.
Whether you're just getting started or scaling up your portfolio, this episode is packed with practical tools you can start using right away.

Learn More About Our Trusted Partner-  Barr LLP

Barr LLP is a full service law firm based in the Province of Alberta with a broad range of practice areas to assist all clients. Their Commercial and Residential Real Estate and Finance team helps new and experienced clients navigate the world of real estate investing in an easy and open manner. 

Would you like to learn more about Barr LLP or get in touch with them? Visit: https://thesavvyinvestor.ca/barr-llp 

Savvy Investor Links:
 
Website: https://thesavvyinvestor.ca
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/savvy_investors
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thesavvyinvestor

Join our Savvy Squad Community for 14 Days Absolutely FREE!
https://thesavvyinvestor.ca/join

Disclaimer: The views and advice expressed on this podcast are those of the participants and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or beliefs of the podcast host or affiliated parties. The content is for entertainment purposes only and should not be considered as professional financial, legal, or investment advice. Listeners are encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with qualified professionals before making any financial decisions. The podcast host and producers are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided.

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This week we’re talking about something that’s catching a lot of attention lately: boutique apartment developments — and we’ve got the perfect guest to walk us through it.

Fresh off a property tour in Calgary, it’s clear the buzz around real estate development isn’t slowing down. But while the spotlight often lands on massive high-rises or big infill conversions, there’s a quieter strategy gaining serious momentum — and it’s all about building intentionally-designed, small-scale apartment buildings that actually fit into the communities they’re in.

We’re talking about those 6–10 unit apartment builds that are popping up more and more — the kind that solve housing supply issues while still delivering solid returns.

Joining us today is Katie Neason, founder of Rookie Redeveloper — a real estate developer, investor, and educator who’s made a name for herself by building boutique-style multifamily projects that blend smart design, solid numbers, and a deep understanding of what today’s neighborhoods need.

In this episode, we get into:

• What goes into planning and financing a boutique apartment build
• Real timelines you should expect (not just the ones on paper)
• How to analyze whether a site is actually a good fit for development
• Katie’s strategy for deciding when to hold vs. sell
• And why small-scale doesn’t mean small profits

Katie brings a super down-to-earth perspective and breaks down the real steps it takes to move from single-family flips to purpose-built multifamily — without needing to be a big-time developer to get started. If you’re curious about multi-unit infill, want to build smarter in today’s market, or just need a push to look at development differently — this one’s a must-listen.

Follow Katie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiedevelops/

Learn More About Our Trusted Partner- Ellements Group

Ellements Group offers real estate investors like you the peace of mind that comes from their insightful, full-team approach to financial coaching, holistic financial planning and managing your entire financial picture, not just your portfolio.

Would you like to learn more? Visit:
https://thesavvyinvestor.ca/ellements-financial-group

Savvy Investor Links:
 Website: https://thesavvyinvestor.ca
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/savvy_investors
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thesavvyinvestor

Join our Savvy Squad Community for 30 Days Absolutely FREE!
https://thesavvyinvestor.ca/join

Disclaimer: The views and advice expressed on this podcast are those of the participants and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or beliefs of the podcast host or affiliated parties. The content is for entertainment purposes only and should not be considered as professional financial, legal, or investment advice. Listeners are encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with qualified professionals before making any financial decisions. The podcast host and producers are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided.

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If you’ve ever thought about getting into infill development or converting commercial properties into residential units, this episode is one you won’t want to miss. We’re talking about the part of the process that most people overlook—but it’s also the part that can completely stall your project if you don’t get it right: zoning, permits, and planning.

This week, I’m joined by Henry Mathew Silva Rojas, founder of Rojas Empire of Design, who’s helped guide hundreds of projects across Ontario through the design and permitting process. Henry shares what really goes on behind the scenes when you're trying to get a project approved—and what separates the plans that move forward from the ones that get stuck.

Here’s what we cover:

• The truth about zoning bylaws—and why ignoring them can kill your deal
• How to prep a permit package that actually gets approved
• What city planners don’t want to see in your submission
• Why commercial-to-residential conversions can be a game-changer—if you know how to work the system
• and more!

Whether you're just starting out or you're a seasoned investor, understanding how to approach zoning and permits the right way will save you time, money, and a lot of headaches.

If you're planning an infill or conversion project, this episode gives you the insights you need—straight from someone who's working with cities and developers every single day.

Follow Henry on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rojasempire/

Learn more about Trusted Partner - Phipps Real Estate Group

Phipps Real Estate Group is based out of Calgary, Alberta and provides supportive and value driven real estate services to their clients who wish to buy, sell or invest. Their team specializes in residential & commercial real estate, as well as property management.

To get in touch visit: https://thesavvyinvestor.ca/phipps-realty/ 

Savvy Investor Links:

Website: https://thesavvyinvestor.ca
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/savvy_investors
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thesavvyinvestor

Join our Savvy Squad Community for 14 Days Absolutely FREE!
https://thesavvyinvestor.ca/join

Disclaimer: The views and advice expressed on this podcast are those of the participants and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or beliefs of the podcast host or affiliated parties. The content is for entertainment purposes only and should not be considered as professional financial, legal, or investment advice. Listeners are encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with qualified professionals before making any financial decisions. The podcast host and producers are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided.

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If you're serious about scaling your real estate portfolio, this episode is a must-listen.

We’re sitting down with Andrew Perrie — team leader at The Fine Estates Team with Revel Realty and a standout voice from our Savvy Investor Summit — to talk about the one thing most investors overlook when trying to grow: building and leading a high-performing team.

So many real estate entrepreneurs hit a ceiling because they’re stuck doing everything themselves. Sound familiar? Andrew breaks down how to finally start handing off the right tasks to the right people — and actually lead them in a way that drives real results.

Here’s what we’re getting into:

• Who to hire first when you’re ready to expand
• How to find people who complement your strengths
• The leadership moves that make people want to follow you
• Communication tips that keep your team sharp and focused
• What it really takes to build a team culture that lasts

Andrew’s built one of the top-performing teams in Ontario — and he’s sharing exactly how he did it. Whether you're stuck in solo-mode or looking to fine-tune your leadership, this episode is packed with real-world advice you can actually use.

Connect with Andrew: https://www.instagram.com/theandrewperrie/

Learn More About Our Trusted Partner - Green Mortgage

Green Mortgage has been specializing in working with real estate investors since 2008. 80% of Green Mortgages’ clients are investors, and Green Mortgage has funded over $1Billion in mortgages over its lifespan.

Would you like to learn more? Visit: https://thesavvyinvestor.ca/green-mortgage-team/ 

Savvy Investor Links:

Website: https://thesavvyinvestor.ca 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/savvy_investors   
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thesavvyinvestor

Join our Savvy Squad Community for 14 Days Absolutely FREE! https://thesavvyinvestor.ca/join

Disclaimer: The views and advice expressed on this podcast are those of the participants and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or beliefs of the podcast host or affiliated parties. The content is for entertainment purposes only and should not be considered as professional financial, legal, or investment advice. Listeners are encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with qualified professionals before making any financial decisions. The podcast host and producers are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided.

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This week on the Savvy Investor Podcast, we're flipping the script. No guest interviews, no roundtables — just a real, straight-up conversation with host Michael Ponte.

If you're building a real estate portfolio, chances are you’ve thought a lot about acquisition and growth… but what about your exit? In this solo episode, Michael shares the hard truths (and smart strategies) about what it really takes to step away from the day-to-day — without losing everything you’ve built.

We're not just talking about the final sale of your properties. Michael breaks down what it means to create freedom while staying in the game — so your real estate business doesn’t end up owning you.

He covers:

• How to design a business that doesn’t rely on you 24/7
• Why waiting too long to plan your exit can cost you big
• The two types of exits every investor should prepare for
• How to start putting the right systems and people in place now

Whether you're managing a few rentals or running a multi-million dollar portfolio, this episode is packed with practical advice that’ll get you thinking differently about the endgame.

If you want to build wealth and have a life, this one’s a must-listen. 

Learn more about our Trusted Partner: BLD Financial

BLD Financial was born out of the idea that through exceptional service and expertise we can create a world of more accessible capital for our clients. We pride ourselves on being unique because we understand that the solutions our clients require are not cookie cutter. We like to think of ourselves as financial architects, moulding a financing solution the same way a tailor would create a custom suit.

At BLD Financial, we’re not just another mortgage brokerage; we are your premier partner in navigating the complex landscape of commercial financing. With a steadfast commitment to transforming the industry landscape, our mission centers on forging connections between capital and opportunity. This dedication is born from an understanding that traditional banking institutions often fall short of meeting the unique needs of today’s borrowers.

To learn more visit: https://thesavvyinvestor.ca/bld-financial/

Savvy Investor Links:

Website: https://thesavvyinvestor.ca 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/savvy_investors 
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thesavvyinvestor 

Join our FREE Savvy Investor Facebook Community:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/341243106757064 

Disclaimer: The views and advice expressed on this podcast are those of the participants and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or beliefs of the podcast host or affiliated parties. The content is for entertainment purposes only and should not be considered as professional financial, legal, or investment advice. Listeners are encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with qualified professionals before making any financial decisions. The podcast host and producers are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided.

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When you think of real estate flipping, you're probably picturing HGTV-style house makeovers… but what if you could skip the renos, the headaches, and the heavy lifting—and still pull in serious profits?

In this episode, I sit down with Brent Bowers, a real estate investor who's flipping the script by flipping raw land—yes, just dirt—and turning it into real income.

Brent shares how he stumbled into land investing with just a couple hundred bucks, flipped his first vacant lot for a few thousand, and realized he'd found a low-stress, high-profit investing model that most people completely overlook.

We get into:

• What makes land flipping a game-changer in today’s market
• How Brent finds undervalued parcels and motivated sellers
• The seller financing strategies that create long-term monthly cash flow
• The systems that keep his land business simple, repeatable, and scalable
• Why land deals still work—even when the housing market slows down

Whether you're a newbie looking for your first deal or a seasoned investor searching for smarter passive income plays, this conversation will get you thinking differently about where the real opportunity in real estate is hiding.

Tune in now and see why flipping dirt might just be the most underrated (and profitable) strategy out there.

Follow Brent on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brentlbowers/

Learn more about our Trusted Partner- SingleKey:

Used by more than 150,000 homeowners across the U.S. and Canada, SingleKey is a digital platform that helps property owners make more informed decisions when selecting tenants and managing their risk. Their tenant screening service, automated rent collection tool, and Rent Guarantee Program bring trust, transparency, and accountability into the rental process, allowing homeowners, renters, property managers, and realtors to rent risk free.

Stop guessing with tenants. SingleKey’s got the tools: Screening, automated rent, and a Rent Guarantee. Used by 150,000+ landlords. Don’t risk it. Get SingleKey.
Use promo code SAVVY10OFF or use the link below to login into your SingleKey account or create a new account. Savvy members are entitled to an exclusive recurring 10% discount on all single credit bureau reports regularly priced at $29.99.

Would you like to learn more? Visit:
https://thesavvyinvestor.ca/singlekey  

Savvy Investor Links:

Website: https://thesavvyinvestor.ca
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/savvy_investors
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thesavvyinvestor

Join our Savvy Squad Community for 14 Days Absolutely FREE! https://thesavvyinvestor.ca/join

Disclaimer: The views and advice expressed on this podcast are those of the participants and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or beliefs of the podcast host or affiliated parties. The content is for entertainment purposes only and should not be considered as professional financial, legal, or investment advice. Listeners are encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with qualified professionals before making any financial decisions. The podcast host and producers are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided. 

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If you’re a landlord in Ontario right now, you’re feeling the pressure — skyrocketing costs, red tape, and a system that seems stacked against the people actually providing the housing. In this episode, we’re talking about all of it — the tough stuff, the real stories, and what needs to change.

Joining me is Kayla Andrade, powerhouse advocate, founder of Ontario Landlord Watch, and a fierce voice for property owners across the province. She’s been in the trenches, talking to government, rallying landlords, and finding real-world solutions that actually help.

Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been in the game for years, this convo is packed with straight talk, practical tips, and big-picture perspective.

What You’ll Hear:

• The real challenges landlords are facing in today’s rental market
• Why Ontario policies are pushing more landlords to the brink
• Tools and strategies to protect your rental business
• The truth about rent arrears, LTB delays, and how to handle tenant issues
• How to make your voice heard (even if you feel like no one’s listening)
• Why connecting with other landlords could be your biggest power move

This isn’t just another housing conversation — this is about getting landlords back in the conversation.

Follow Kayla on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kaylaandradeolw/

Learn More About Our Trusted Partner- Front Lobby

FrontLobby is a platform designed for Landlords, Property Managers, and Renters. Our mission is to improve the rental industry for everyone. We believe in creating a win-win scenario where Housing Providers and Renters prosper.

Would you like to learn more? Visit:
https://thesavvyinvestor.ca/front-lobby 

Savvy Investor Links:
Website: https://thesavvyinvestor.ca 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/savvy_investors 
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thesavvyinvestor

Join our FREE Savvy Investor Facebook Community:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/341243106757064

Disclaimer: The views and advice expressed on this podcast are those of the participants and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or beliefs of the podcast host or affiliated parties. The content is for entertainment purposes only and should not be considered as professional financial, legal, or investment advice. Listeners are encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with qualified professionals before making any financial decisions. The podcast host and producers are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided.

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Remember the moment you first thought about buying your first property? For many, that leap of faith feels both exciting and overwhelming. You’ve watched videos, read books, maybe even listened to podcasts like this one—and it all seems doable. Buy a property, build a portfolio, and watch the cash flow roll in, right?

Well, Samuel Li shares that it’s not always that simple. When you take that first step, the fear hits hard—mortgages, tenant worries, second-guessing your numbers, wondering if you made a huge mistake. That fear is real and it stops a lot of people from starting.

In this episode, Samuel gets real about his journey from buying his first single-family property to scaling up with multi-family homes and building a successful real estate business, RaSa Real Estate Investments. He’s made mistakes, learned valuable lessons, and wants to share them so you don’t have to stumble the same way.

We chat about:

• What it’s really like starting out as a new investor
• How he built the confidence to move into multifamily properties
• The role of systems and structure in managing growth
• How creating a property management company gave him more control and stability

Samuel’s story is a solid reminder that you don’t need to have all the answers before starting. If you’re ready to push past fear and scale your real estate business, this episode is packed with insights to help you keep moving forward.

Follow Samuel on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samli9981/

Learn More About Our Trusted Partner - Equiton

Proudly Canadian-owned and operated, Equiton is a leading private equity firm that delivers notable returns for investors. We believe in making private real estate investing accessible to all Canadians and providing easy access to all types of investment-grade real estate through our proven high-performing investment solutions. 

We offer true diversification, full transparency, and all the benefits of real estate investing without the difficulties of financing, tenant management, building maintenance or project management.

Would you like to learn more? Visit:
https://thesavvyinvestor.ca/equiton 

Savvy Investor Links:

Website: https://thesavvyinvestor.ca
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/savvy_investors
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thesavvyinvestor 

Join our Savvy Investor community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thesavvyinvestor

Disclaimer: The views and advice expressed on this podcast are those of the participants and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or beliefs of the podcast host or affiliated parties. The content is for entertainment purposes only and should not be considered as professional financial, legal, or investment advice. Listeners are encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with qualified professionals before making any financial decisions. The podcast host and producers are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided.