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Zoning is changing faster right now than at almost any point I can remember. Cities across Canada & the US are opening the door to four, six, even ten units on lots that used to allow one. Now on paper that sound like an amazing opportunity. But for many investors it can be a nightmare when they don’t know what the heck they are doing.

That gap, between what's legally possible and what's actually buildable, is where a lot of good intentions turn into expensive mistakes.

Robert Nichols has spent more than 20 years closing that gap. He's a real estate developer out of Boston who's completed over 40 projects and personally led entitlement and permitting on 17 of them in one of the most difficult regulatory markets in the country. He's also a capital advisor through MIG Advisory, where he's placed over $800 million across commercial real estate deals, so he's seen this business from the development side and the money side.

His path here wasn't a straight line. He set out to become an attorney, ended up in a corporate job instead, and it was buying his first property at 23 that changed everything. From there he learned development from the ground up, working under a development company that also ran a lending arm, which is where he picked up how to actually underwrite a deal.

Here's what we get into:

• How zoning and entitlement decisions early on can make or break a project's return
• What actually goes into building a capital stack that doesn't fall apart
• Why understanding your exit strategy before you even close on land
• The most common and most expensive mistakes he sees first-time developers make
• How he thinks about scaling from a single project into a repeatable development business
• And so much more

He also gives us a sneak peek into where he's seeing the best development opportunities right now.

If you've been wondering whether your next move should be development instead of another single or multifamily property, then you really want to listen to this right to the very end.

Follow Robert on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robertlnichols/

Learn more about our Trusted Partner - SingleKey

Used by more than +1 Million housing providers and tenants 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 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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What happens when the best real estate investment opportunities aren’t in your own backyard?

In this episode of the Savvy Investor Podcast, Michael Ponte explores the world of out-of-state and remote real estate investing with Kathy Fettke, co-founder of RealWealth. Kathy and her husband Rich have helped more than 88,000 investors purchase rental properties across the U.S., many of them in markets far from where they live.

With many investors sitting on capital while being priced out of their local markets, the question is becoming more important: Should you invest where you live, look for a better real estate market elsewhere, or wait for the market to change?

Kathy shares the lessons she’s learned from building a real estate investing career and explains how she evaluates markets, manages risk, and creates systems that allow investors to successfully buy and manage rental properties from a distance.

In This Episode, We Discuss:

• How Kathy evaluates a real estate investment market before ever visiting it
• What real estate due diligence really looks like from a distance
• How to build and manage a reliable local real estate team
• The biggest mistakes investors make when buying out-of-state rental properties
• How to identify opportunities when you’re priced out of your local real estate market
• Why having the right systems and processes can make remote real estate investing possible
• What Kathy would tell investors who are ready to invest but are still holding themselves back

If you’ve been wondering whether your next investment property should be somewhere outside your city, state, province, or even country, this episode is packed with insights to help you think differently about real estate investing, rental properties, market selection, due diligence, and building long-term wealth.

Stay connected with Kathy: https://realwealth.com/

Learn More About Our Trusted Partner - Ellements Financial 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 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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Thinking about using CMHC MLI Select for your next multifamily investment? It’s often promoted as the go-to financing solution, but the reality is that it’s not the right fit for every deal.

In this episode, Michael Ponte sits down with Nadeem Keshavjee, Founder of GreenBirch Capital, to unpack what MLI Select really offers, where it shines, and where investors need to be careful. They discuss the trade-offs, common misconceptions, and why choosing the right financing strategy is just as important as choosing the right property. If you're considering commercial or multifamily investing, this conversation will help you evaluate whether MLI Select belongs in your investment strategy.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• What CMHC MLI Select is and how it works
• How affordability, energy efficiency, and accessibility impact financing terms
• When MLI Select is the right choice—and when it isn't
• The hidden costs, restrictions, and reporting requirements investors should know
• Alternative commercial financing options and how to choose the right one for your deal
• Practical insights from years of financing multifamily and commercial properties across Canada

Whether you're buying your first apartment building or expanding your portfolio, this episode will help you make more informed financing decisions.

Follow GreenBirch on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/greenbirchcapital

Learn More About Our Trusted Partner - Calvin Realty

Calvin Realty is a top-tier, investor-focused real estate team based in Edmonton.
Our goal is to transform lives and build lasting relationships through real estate. We strive to offer exceptional service and guidance, ensuring every client’s success throughout their journey.

We’re proud to be recognized as the top-rated real estate team in Edmonton and area, with over 570 Google reviews and the highest client satisfaction rating. Clients consistently describe us as responsive, knowledgeable, and dedicated to delivering exceptional service.

In 2025, Calvin Realty earned the prestigious Northern Alberta Consumer Choice Award in the Commercial Real Estate category—marking us as a leading team in the region. We specialize in investor-focused services, providing exclusive access to private deals, a strong professional network, and strategic market guidance designed to help clients expand their portfolios and identify opportunities early.
With our award-winning reputation, proven results, and investor-first approach, Calvin Realty stands out as a premier real estate partner in Northern Alberta.

Would you like to learn more? Visit: https://thesavvyinvestor.ca/calvin-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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In this episode of the Savvy Investor Podcast, Michael Ponte sits down with real estate entrepreneur Sam Primm to discuss how he went from a corporate career to building a real estate portfolio worth more than $40 million using the BRRRR strategy and other people's money. Sam also shares how documenting his journey on social media helped him grow an audience of over 2 million followers, build credibility, and raise capital to scale his business.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• How Sam transitioned from a 9-to-5 career into full-time real estate investing.
• How the BRRRR strategy helped him build a $40+ million portfolio.
• How he structures deals and raises capital using other people's money.
• What it takes to grow from a solo investor to completing 250–300 deals a year.
• How social media became a powerful tool for building his brand and business.
• The biggest lessons he learned from setbacks and scaling his company.

If you're looking for practical strategies to grow your real estate business and scale your portfolio, this episode delivers actionable insights from Sam's experience.

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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What happens when you've found a great real estate deal—but the bank says no?

In this episode, Michael Ponte sits down with Rob Lamontagne, founder of Thinking Outside the Box, to talk about one of the most powerful tools many investors overlook: seller financing. Rob shares how the 2008 market crash changed his investing journey and why creative financing has become a key strategy for building wealth without relying solely on traditional lenders.

They discuss how to recognize sellers who may be open to financing a deal, how to approach the conversation, and why thinking beyond the bank can open the door to opportunities other investors miss.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• What seller financing is and how it works.
• Why some sellers are willing to finance a sale.
• How to identify good seller financing opportunities.
• Tips for presenting a seller financing offer.
• How creative financing can help you close more deals.

If you've ever walked away from a great investment because financing didn't work out, this episode will show you there's more than one way to get a deal done.

Follow Rob on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lamontjr381/

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 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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If you've been thinking about making the jump from single-family homes to multifamily investing, this episode is for you. Michael Ponte sits down with seasoned investor Pierre-Paul Turgeon to talk about what it really takes to buy and operate apartment buildings successfully. 

Drawing from nearly 20 years of experience—from underwriting deals for lenders to building a portfolio of more than 160 units—Pierre-Paul shares the lessons, challenges, and strategies that have shaped his investing journey. It's an honest conversation filled with practical insights for anyone looking to grow their real estate portfolio.

In this episode, we cover:

• Why multifamily investing requires a different approach than single-family real estate.
• How Pierre-Paul made the transition from underwriting deals to buying his own.
• What lenders look for in a strong multifamily investment.
• Common financing mistakes investors make—and how to avoid them.
• The operational challenges that can impact the success of an apartment building.
• Lessons learned from nearly two decades of investing in multifamily real estate.
• Practical advice for investors ready to scale with confidence.

Follow Pierre-Paul on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/turgeonpierrepaul/

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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Vacancies are becoming a growing challenge for many real estate investors, but what if there was another way to fill your units besides signing another long-term lease?

In this episode, Michael Ponte sits down with Josh Wilson, who operates 58 Airbnb properties without owning a single one. Using the Airbnb arbitrage model, Josh leases properties from landlords, manages them as short-term rentals, and pays owners consistent monthly rent while generating income through professional operations.

You'll learn:

• How Airbnb arbitrage works and how landlords partner with operators.
• Why this model can outperform traditional long-term rentals.
• What makes a property a great fit for short-term rental success.
• How investors can get started with little to no capital using the arbitrage model.
• How Josh's Lease to Launch program helps aspiring operators launch a profitable Airbnb business in as little as 30 days.

Whether you're struggling with vacancies, looking to increase your property's cash flow, or searching for a creative way to break into real estate investing, this episode offers practical insights into an alternative strategy worth considering.

Follow Josh on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bnbwithjosh/

Learn More About Our Trusted Partner - Ellements Financial 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 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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Before the episode, most investors ask what property to buy. As they grow, the better question becomes how should I own it? In this episode, Michael Ponte sits down with real estate and corporate lawyer Shawn Quigg to unpack one of the most overlooked parts of building a successful real estate business: your corporate structure. 

They discuss when it actually makes sense to incorporate, the advantages and drawbacks of owning property personally versus through a corporation, and what changes when you start investing with joint venture partners. Whether you're buying your first rental or managing a growing portfolio, this conversation will help you better understand how to protect your assets and build a legal structure that supports your long-term goals.

In this episode, you'll learn:

•  When it makes sense to incorporate—and when it doesn't. 
•  The pros and cons of owning real estate personally versus through a corporation. 
•  Signs that your current structure may no longer fit your growing portfolio. 
•  What every joint venture partnership should have in writing. 
•  How to choose a corporate structure that fits your investing strategy, not someone else's. 

If you're treating your real estate investing like a business, this episode is packed with practical insights to help you build the right foundation before your portfolio grows even bigger.

Follow Shawn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spquigg/

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 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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Tenant fraud is becoming a growing challenge for real estate investors, and the consequences can be costly. In this episode, Michael Ponte sits down with MacKenzie Wilson to discuss how landlords and investors can better protect themselves from fraudulent applications, fake documents, and costly tenant screening mistakes.

MacKenzie shares practical insights from the front lines of property management, including the warning signs investors often miss and the screening processes that can help prevent problems before they start. The conversation also explores how technology has made it easier for bad actors to manipulate applications—and what investors can do to stay ahead.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• The most common types of tenant fraud investors are facing today
• Red flags to watch for during the application and screening process
• How fake income documents and altered records can slip through the cracks
• Best practices for verifying tenant information
• How stronger screening systems can reduce risk and protect your investments
• Practical steps landlords can take to avoid costly tenant-related issues

Whether you own a single rental property or a large portfolio, this episode offers actionable advice to help you make better tenant decisions and safeguard your cash flow.

Learn More About Our Trusted Partner - Calvin Realty

Calvin Realty is a top-tier, investor-focused real estate team based in Edmonton.
Our goal is to transform lives and build lasting relationships through real estate. We strive to offer exceptional service and guidance, ensuring every client’s success throughout their journey.

We’re proud to be recognized as the top-rated real estate team in Edmonton and area, with over 570 Google reviews and the highest client satisfaction rating. Clients consistently describe us as responsive, knowledgeable, and dedicated to delivering exceptional service.

In 2025, Calvin Realty earned the prestigious Northern Alberta Consumer Choice Award in the Commercial Real Estate category—marking us as a leading team in the region. We specialize in investor-focused services, providing exclusive access to private deals, a strong professional network, and strategic market guidance designed to help clients expand their portfolios and identify opportunities early.
With our award-winning reputation, proven results, and investor-first approach, Calvin Realty stands out as a premier real estate partner in Northern Alberta.

Would you like to learn more? Visit: https://thesavvyinvestor.ca/calvin-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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Most investors get into real estate for the same reason: more freedom, more time, and a better life. But somewhere along the way, many end up building portfolios that demand more of them than the jobs they were trying to escape.

In this episode, Michael sits down with mindset and performance coach Cary Alan to talk about what happens when success on paper doesn't translate into fulfillment in real life. They dig into the hidden drivers behind our decisions, why so many high achievers still feel stuck, and how to build wealth without sacrificing the things that matter most along the way.

In this episode:

• How to uncover the real reason you're chasing financial success
• Why bigger portfolios don't always lead to greater fulfillment
• The mistake many investors make when defining freedom
• How to stay present while pursuing ambitious goals
• Ways to protect your life now instead of postponing it for "someday"
• Why clarity may be the most valuable asset you can build

If you've ever wondered whether you're building a business to support your life—or building a life around your business—this conversation is worth your time.

Follow Cary on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caryalancoaching

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.