What happens when self-storage becomes a space for transformation and empowerment?

In this episode, I sit down with Andrea Lafrechoux, Director of Real Estate at Avenir Properties, to talk about Montreal Mini Storage’s newest location—and the bigger mission behind it. Andrea shares how their latest development is not just about lockers and square footage, but about creating meaningful spaces that support women entrepreneurs and community needs. From a co-working space dedicated to women to partnerships with Scotiabank and local artists, this project was built differently—with heart, purpose, and intention.

We explore how urban planning and adaptive reuse can reshape real estate’s role in our lives, especially when companies truly listen to the community. Andrea also speaks about initiatives like “Ladies Who Launch” and how design choices—from lighting to layout—can create safer, more inclusive environments. This isn’t just about storage. It’s about building better spaces for real life.

What you will learn if you listen to the episode:

- Women leaders in real estate and storage

- Building co-working spaces for women entrepreneurs

- Montreal Mini Storage launches 24th location

- How real estate can support community needs

- Adaptive reuse in Quebec real estate projects

- Self-storage as essential service in urban planning

- Creating safe and inclusive spaces for business growth

SUPPORT US ON PATREON! 

patreon.com/realestateeffect and become a part of our real estate family! You’ll get access to exclusive content, monthly virtual meetings [Ask me anything!], special events, and more!

And please subscribe to the show, share it with a friend and send us feedback. Visit www.realestateeffect.ca and follow me on IG @monsaxel

Connect with Axel Monsaingeon:

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/axel-monsaingeon-42577b28/

Website - https://www.realestateeffect.ca/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/realestateeffect/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/veryrealestateeffect/

Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCc8EYrmO1aVvVIgwT7AfNFw

Connect with Andrea Lafrechoux:

Website: montrealministorage.com | https://immeublesavenir.ca/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrea-lafrechoux-74ab7768/?originalSubdomain=ca

Do you have any questions about your real estate journey?

Whether you're curious about navigating the complexities of development projects, dealing with financial challenges, or anything in between, I’m here to delve into the topics that matter most to you. 

I invite you to submit your questions by visiting our website at https://www.realestateeffect.ca/ and clicking on the 'Send Voicemail' widget on the right side.

Your inquiries will help shape our upcoming episodes, ensuring we cover the real estate issues you're most interested in. 

What does it really take to transform a city block? In this episode, I sit down with Jordan Owen, partner at Mondev, to talk about the five-year journey to redevelop L'ilot vaoyageur in Montreal. From stalled city tenders to innovative partnerships, we get into how this 1,000-unit project finally moved forward—with half of the units dedicated to social and affordable housing.

We also talk about the real risks developers take—zoning delays, red tape, shifting markets—and why long-term thinking is non-negotiable in real estate. Jordan shares how Mondev’s team managed to weather the recent storms in the industry without overpaying for land or overleveraging. It’s a clear look at how discipline and strategy play out in real time.

To close, Jordan shares how automation and custom-built tools help streamline their prospecting process. He reminds us that behind every building, there’s not just capital—but creativity, patience, and a deep love for the process.

What you will learn if you listen to the episode:

- How to build affordable housing in Montreal

- The real risks of real estate development

- Zoning problems every developer faces

- What it takes to redevelop a city block

- Long-term thinking in real estate investing

- How developers use AI and automation for property deals

- Why Montreal real estate needs new housing projects

SUPPORT US ON PATREON! 

patreon.com/realestateeffect and become a part of our real estate family! You’ll get access to exclusive content, monthly virtual meetings [Ask me anything!], special events, and more!

And please subscribe to the show, share it with a friend and send us feedback. Visit www.realestateeffect.ca and follow me on IG @monsaxel

Connect with Axel Monsaingeon:

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/axel-monsaingeon-42577b28/

Website - https://www.realestateeffect.ca/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/realestateeffect/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/veryrealestateeffect/

Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCc8EYrmO1aVvVIgwT7AfNFw

Connect with Jordan Owen:

Website: https://www.mondev.ca/

Instagram: @jordan_v_owen | @mondev.ca

Do you have any questions about your real estate journey?

Whether you're curious about navigating the complexities of development projects, dealing with financial challenges, or anything in between, I’m here to delve into the topics that matter most to you. 

I invite you to submit your questions by visiting our website at https://www.realestateeffect.ca/ and clicking on the 'Send Voicemail' widget on the right side.

Your inquiries will help shape our upcoming episodes, ensuring we cover the real estate issues you're most interested in.

What should you really consider before locking in your mortgage rate?

In this episode, I sit down with Mathieu-Alexandre Poupart from Orbis Mortgage Group to unpack the real estate and mortgage landscape in a time of high uncertainty. We talk about bond yields, Bank of Canada rate decisions, and how U.S. economic policy impacts Canadian housing. Matt shares how timing, prepayment penalties, and choosing between fixed or variable rates can make or break your investment strategy.

We also talk about what lenders really look at when you apply for a mortgage, how income and debt affect your options, and why Montreal is still doing okay compared to other markets. Whether you're buying your first property or renewing, this conversation gives you the knowledge to make smart and grounded choices.

What you will learn if you listen to the episode:

- How bond yields affect mortgage rates in Canada\

- Choosing between fixed and variable mortgage rates

- Understanding prepayment penalties on mortgages

- Why Montreal’s housing market is more stable

- What lenders check when approving a mortgage

- How U.S. interest rates impact Canadian real estate

- Smart tips for renewing your mortgage in 2025

SUPPORT US ON PATREON! 

patreon.com/realestateeffect and become a part of our real estate family! You’ll get access to exclusive content, monthly virtual meetings [Ask me anything!], special events, and more!

And please subscribe to the show, share it with a friend and send us feedback. Visit www.realestateeffect.ca and follow me on IG @monsaxel

Connect with Axel Monsaingeon:

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/axel-monsaingeon-42577b28/

Website - https://www.realestateeffect.ca/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/realestateeffect/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/veryrealestateeffect/

Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCc8EYrmO1aVvVIgwT7AfNFw

Connect with Mathieu-Alexandre Poupart:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mathieualexandrepoupart/

Link Tree: linktr.ee/mpoupart 

Do you have any questions about your real estate journey?

Whether you're curious about navigating the complexities of development projects, dealing with financial challenges, or anything in between, I’m here to delve into the topics that matter most to you. 

I invite you to submit your questions by visiting our website at https://www.realestateeffect.ca/ and clicking on the 'Send Voicemail' widget on the right side.

Your inquiries will help shape our upcoming episodes, ensuring we cover the real estate issues you're most interested in. 

What does it take to turn a local event into a world-class experience?

In this episode, I sit down with Serujan to talk about the upcoming Elev8 Conference in Montreal. Serujan shares how he went from organizing a one-day local event to planning a massive three-day international experience with over 4,500 expected attendees. He talks about the vision behind it, why sales and marketing matter for every industry, and how he’s bringing together top speakers like Andy Elliott, Daniel G, and Neil Dingra to create real impact.

We also explore what drives him to keep pushing the limits—despite challenges and doubts from others. For Serujan, it’s not just about business. It’s about surrounding yourself with the right people, creating meaningful connections, and building something that actually changes lives. He’s clear that this isn’t just another conference—it’s an investment in human potential.

If you’ve ever wondered how to get into the rooms where real growth happens, this conversation is for you. And if you’re thinking of joining Elev8, head over to elev82025.ca for more info.

What you will learn if you listen to the episode:

- How to build a world-class business event

- Sales and marketing tips for entrepreneurs

- Why attending business conferences leads to success

- Montreal Elevate Conference with top speakers

- How to grow your network through live events

- What makes a high-impact business conference

- Real stories of leadership and business growth

SUPPORT US ON PATREON! 

patreon.com/realestateeffect and become a part of our real estate family! You’ll get access to exclusive content, monthly virtual meetings [Ask me anything!], special events, and more!

And please subscribe to the show, share it with a friend and send us feedback. Visit www.realestateeffect.ca and follow me on IG @monsaxel

Connect with Axel Monsaingeon:

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/axel-monsaingeon-42577b28/

Website - https://www.realestateeffect.ca/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/realestateeffect/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/veryrealestateeffect/

Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCc8EYrmO1aVvVIgwT7AfNFw

Connect with Serujan:

Website: https://elev82025.ca/

Do you have any questions about your real estate journey?

Whether you're curious about navigating the complexities of development projects, dealing with financial challenges, or anything in between, I’m here to delve into the topics that matter most to you. 

I invite you to submit your questions by visiting our website at https://www.realestateeffect.ca/ and clicking on the 'Send Voicemail' widget on the right side.

Your inquiries will help shape our upcoming episodes, ensuring we cover the real estate issues you're most interested in. 

What does it take to transform an entire city through real estate investing? In this episode, I sit down with Nikolay Ray, a visionary investor and the founder of Collège MREX and Fierbrooke, to explore how he’s reshaping Sherbrooke through impact investing. Nikolay shares his journey from investment banking to real estate, detailing his approach to acquiring and revitalizing properties to create lasting change.

We discuss the philosophy behind sustainable development, affordable housing, and urban renewal. Nikolay explains why he focuses on community reinvestment and how his unique “monopoly strategy” allows him to influence entire neighborhoods. He also dives into the challenges of working with cities, the importance of public consultations, and how developers can balance profit with purpose.

If you're interested in real estate as a tool for transformation, this episode is for you. Nikolay's insights on leadership, vision, and financial engineering will shift how you think about investing. Tune in to learn how to build a portfolio that goes beyond returns and contributes to the bigger picture.

What you will learn if you listen to the episode:

- How Real Estate Investors Can Transform a City Through Impact Investing

- Building Wealth and Affordable Housing in Real Estate Investing

- Urban Development Strategies for Real Estate Investors

- Sustainable Real Estate Investing for Long-Term Growth

- Overcoming Challenges in Property Development and City Regulations

- Vision and Leadership in Real Estate Investment Success

- Community Reinvestment and Financial Strategies for Property Investors

SUPPORT US ON PATREON! 

patreon.com/realestateeffect and become a part of our real estate family! You’ll get access to exclusive content, monthly virtual meetings [Ask me anything!], special events, and more!

And please subscribe to the show, share it with a friend and send us feedback. Visit www.realestateeffect.ca and follow me on IG @monsaxel

Connect with Axel Monsaingeon:

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/axel-monsaingeon-42577b28/

Website - https://www.realestateeffect.ca/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/realestateeffect/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/veryrealestateeffect/

Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCc8EYrmO1aVvVIgwT7AfNFw

Connect with Nikolay Ray:

Website: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mrex/people/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikolairay/

Do you have any questions about your real estate journey?

Whether you're curious about navigating the complexities of development projects, dealing with financial challenges, or anything in between, I’m here to delve into the topics that matter most to you. 

I invite you to submit your questions by visiting our website at https://www.realestateeffect.ca/ and clicking on the 'Send Voicemail' widget on the right side.

Your inquiries will help shape our upcoming episodes, ensuring we cover the real estate issues you're most interested in. 

How do you navigate real estate investing with confidence? In this episode, I sit down with Marc Leroux, President and Founder of Cardinal Realty Group, to discuss the ins and outs of the real estate market in Montreal and beyond. Mark shares his journey from franchise development to building a real estate brokerage, emphasizing the importance of education, client guidance, and strategic investing.

We explore how the team model works in real estate, the role of client education in smoothing transactions, and why market supply remains a crucial factor in property values. Mark also sheds light on short-term rentals, the future of new construction, and why real estate professionals need to create sustainable work-life balance systems to thrive in the industry.

If you’re looking for insights on the real estate landscape, practical advice on buying and selling, or the strategies that top professionals use to grow, this episode is for you. Connect with Mark and his team at Cardinal Realty Group to stay ahead in the market.

If you're in real estate investing, this episode will give you key takeaways on positioning yourself for long-term success. Tune in now.

What you will learn if you listen to the episode:

- Real estate investing strategies and market trends

- How to choose the right real estate team for buying or selling

- Why client education is key in real estate transactions

- Short-term rentals and their impact on the housing market

- The future of new construction and real estate supply issues

- Work-life balance for real estate professionals and brokers

- Expert tips for buying and selling properties in Montreal

SUPPORT US ON PATREON! 

patreon.com/realestateeffect and become a part of our real estate family! You’ll get access to exclusive content, monthly virtual meetings [Ask me anything!], special events, and more!

And please subscribe to the show, share it with a friend and send us feedback. Visit www.realestateeffect.ca and follow me on IG @monsaxel

Connect with Axel Monsaingeon:

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/axel-monsaingeon-42577b28/

Website - https://www.realestateeffect.ca/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/realestateeffect/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/veryrealestateeffect/

Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCc8EYrmO1aVvVIgwT7AfNFw

Connect with Marc Leroux:

Website: http://www.cardinalrealtygroup.ca/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marc-leroux-23535780/

Do you have any questions about your real estate journey?

Whether you're curious about navigating the complexities of development projects, dealing with financial challenges, or anything in between, I’m here to delve into the topics that matter most to you. 

I invite you to submit your questions by visiting our website at https://www.realestateeffect.ca/ and clicking on the 'Send Voicemail' widget on the right side.

Your inquiries will help shape our upcoming episodes, ensuring we cover the real estate issues you're most interested in.

Comment la tokenisation change-t-elle l'industrie immobilière ? Aujourd'hui, nous explorons ce sujet avec Laurent Féral-Pierssens, expert en blockchain et en finance immobilière. Il partage son parcours et explique comment la tokenisation permet de fractionner la propriété et d’ouvrir de nouvelles opportunités pour investisseurs, gestionnaires et courtiers.

Nous discutons des défis et des avantages de cette technologie dans l’immobilier. Laurent explique comment elle peut améliorer la transparence, faciliter les transactions et rendre l’investissement plus accessible. Il aborde aussi l’impact de la réglementation et comment les acteurs du marché s’adaptent à cette évolution.

Enfin, nous parlons de l’événement du Cercle 13 qui se tiendra le 1er avril, consacré à la tokenisation et à la blockchain dans l’immobilier. Laurent y présentera les opportunités et défis de cette transformation. Pour en savoir plus, rejoignez-nous et découvrez comment cette révolution pourrait redéfinir l’avenir du secteur.

Ce que vous apprendrez en écoutant l’épisode:

- Tokenisation immobilière et nouvelles opportunités d’investissement

- Comment la blockchain transforme le secteur immobilier

- Avantages de la tokenisation pour les investisseurs et gestionnaires

- Immobilier et transparence grâce à la technologie blockchain

- Impact des nouvelles régulations sur la tokenisation immobilière

- Événement Cercle 13 sur la blockchain et l’immobilier

- L’avenir de l’investissement immobilier avec la digitalisation

Venez rencontrer Laurent Féral-Pierssens:

Pour participer à la soirée du Cercle 13 le 1er Avril, merci de vous inscrire à www.cercle13.com

Cercle 13 vise à réunir les professionnels de la communauté immobilière commerciale en favorisant le réseautage dans un climat convivial afin de développer des relations de qualité avec les participants aux activités.

Connecter avec Axel Monsaingeon:

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/axel-monsaingeon-42577b28/

Website - https://www.realestateeffect.ca/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/veryrealestateeffect/

Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCc8EYrmO1aVvVIgwT7AfNFw

Is your real estate portfolio ready for the energy transition?

In this episode of The Very Real Estate Effect Podcast, I sit down with Philippe Hudon, President and Founder of Akonovia, to discuss energy efficiency, decarbonization, and their financial impact on real estate. Philippe shares insights on how shifting regulations and carbon taxes are shaping investment strategies, the risks of owning high-carbon buildings, and why banks are tightening financing criteria for inefficient properties.

We also explore market opportunities for investors who embrace energy-efficient upgrades and the challenges of capturing value in green buildings. Philippe explains why some properties may become liabilities in the coming years and how to navigate the evolving financial and regulatory landscape.

If you're in real estate investing, this episode will give you key takeaways on positioning yourself for long-term success. Tune in now.

What you will learn if you listen to the episode:

- How energy efficiency impacts real estate investing

- Why banks are limiting loans for high-carbon buildings

- The financial risks of owning energy-inefficient properties

- How carbon taxes and regulations affect real estate investors

- The growing demand for green buildings in real estate

- How to increase property value with energy upgrades

- The future of real estate financing and energy efficiency

SUPPORT US ON PATREON! 

patreon.com/realestateeffect and become a part of our real estate family! You’ll get access to exclusive content, monthly virtual meetings [Ask me anything!], special events, and more!

And please subscribe to the show, share it with a friend and send us feedback. Visit www.realestateeffect.ca and follow me on IG @monsaxel

Connect with Axel Monsaingeon:

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/axel-monsaingeon-42577b28/

Website - https://www.realestateeffect.ca/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/realestateeffect/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/veryrealestateeffect/

Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCc8EYrmO1aVvVIgwT7AfNFw

Connect with Philippe Hudon:

Website: www.simulead.ca

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philippe-hudon-b3b13433/

Do you have any questions about your real estate journey?

Whether you're curious about navigating the complexities of development projects, dealing with financial challenges, or anything in between, I’m here to delve into the topics that matter most to you. 

I invite you to submit your questions by visiting our website at https://www.realestateeffect.ca/ and clicking on the 'Send Voicemail' widget on the right side.

Your inquiries will help shape our upcoming episodes, ensuring we cover the real estate issues you're most interested in. 

How will AI and blockchain change real estate investing?

The future of real estate is shifting fast. In this episode, I sit down with Patrice Minar, founder of PMML, to explore how artificial intelligence and blockchain are reshaping commercial real estate transactions. We discuss the power of data collection, how AI enhances business intelligence, and why vertical integration is key to staying ahead in the market.

Patrice shares his insights on the challenges of AI adoption, the role of blockchain in streamlining transactions, and how data-driven decision-making is changing the industry. He also explains why speed and execution matter more than ever in today’s competitive landscape.

If you're in real estate investing or looking to understand how technology is transforming the market, this conversation is a must-listen. Tune in to learn how to leverage AI, data, and innovation to stay ahead of the curve.

What you will learn if you listen to the episode:

- How AI is changing real estate investing

- The role of blockchain in commercial real estate

- Why data is key to real estate success

- How AI helps real estate investors make better decisions

- The future of real estate with AI and technology

- Why speed and execution matter in real estate deals

- How real estate investors can use AI and data to grow faster

SUPPORT US ON PATREON! 

patreon.com/realestateeffect and become a part of our real estate family! You’ll get access to exclusive content, monthly virtual meetings [Ask me anything!], special events, and more!

And please subscribe to the show, share it with a friend and send us feedback. Visit www.realestateeffect.ca and follow me on IG @monsaxel

Connect with Axel Monsaingeon:

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/axel-monsaingeon-42577b28/

Website - https://www.realestateeffect.ca/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/realestateeffect/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/veryrealestateeffect/

Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCc8EYrmO1aVvVIgwT7AfNFw

Connect with Patrice Menard:

Website: www.pmml.ca

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricemenardpmml/

Do you have any questions about your real estate journey?

Whether you're curious about navigating the complexities of development projects, dealing with financial challenges, or anything in between, I’m here to delve into the topics that matter most to you. 

I invite you to submit your questions by visiting our website at https://www.realestateeffect.ca/ and clicking on the 'Send Voicemail' widget on the right side.

Your inquiries will help shape our upcoming episodes, ensuring we cover the real estate issues you're most interested in. 

Are You Overlooking This Critical Factor in Real Estate Investing?

Plumbing issues can turn into costly surprises for real estate investors. In this episode, I sit down with Ben Levine, President of Levine Brothers Plumbing, to break down what every investor should know about property plumbing. We discuss how to identify potential risks, the impact of outdated systems, and key maintenance strategies that can save you thousands down the line.

Ben shares insights from running a fourth-generation plumbing business, covering everything from galvanized pipes to lead water entries, main drains, and automation sensors. Whether you’re buying your first property or managing a portfolio, understanding plumbing fundamentals is essential to protecting your investments.

Tune in to learn how proactive maintenance and the right upgrades can prevent major headaches and unexpected expenses. If you own real estate, this episode is a must-listen.

What you will learn if you listen to the episode:

- Common plumbing problems real estate investors should watch for

- How outdated plumbing systems affect property value and repairs

- Key plumbing inspections before buying a rental property

- Signs of plumbing issues that could cost thousands to fix

- Best maintenance tips to avoid major plumbing disasters

- How plumbing automation can save money and prevent damage

- Why upgrading pipes and drains is crucial for long-term investments

SUPPORT US ON PATREON! 

patreon.com/realestateeffect and become a part of our real estate family! You’ll get access to exclusive content, monthly virtual meetings [Ask me anything!], special events, and more!

And please subscribe to the show, share it with a friend and send us feedback. Visit www.realestateeffect.ca and follow me on IG @monsaxel

Connect with Axel Monsaingeon:

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/axel-monsaingeon-42577b28/

Website - https://www.realestateeffect.ca/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/realestateeffect/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/veryrealestateeffect/

Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCc8EYrmO1aVvVIgwT7AfNFw

Connect with Ben Levine:

Website: https://levinebros.ca/

Instagram: @levinebros

Do you have any questions about your real estate journey?

Whether you're curious about navigating the complexities of development projects, dealing with financial challenges, or anything in between, I’m here to delve into the topics that matter most to you. 

I invite you to submit your questions by visiting our website at https://www.realestateeffect.ca/ and clicking on the 'Send Voicemail' widget on the right side.

Your inquiries will help shape our upcoming episodes, ensuring we cover the real estate issues you're most interested in.