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In this episode, Scott is joined by Jennifer Champion and Christine Traynor to discuss the critical advantages of working with experienced brokers who specialize in multi-family financing. The conversation highlights real-world examples of how the right expertise can save investors millions while avoiding costly mistakes that commonly occur when going direct to banks or working with inexperienced brokers.

Key Insights & Takeaways

Scott shares a compelling example of how broker expertise translates to substantial savings. An investor with a rehabbed 57-unit property initially went direct to his major bank, which offered a $13 million loan. However, when the bank discovered the property was leased to a single corporate tenant who then subletted the units, they withdrew their offer entirely.

Working with Scott's team of expert brokers resulted in:

• $16 million in financing (versus the original $13 million offer)
• Interest rates 1% lower than the bank's proposal
• Deal approval instead of complete rejection
• Proper structuring that satisfied both lenders and CMHC requirements

This single transaction demonstrates how the right broker expertise can mean the difference between a failed deal and a successful $3 million improvement in financing terms.

A shocking revelation from the episode involves a client with a large multi-family portfolio who repeatedly received conventional loans from his bank—despite the same bank offering CMHC multi-family insurance programs. The bank's conventional offerings included:

• 25-year amortization instead of 40-year options
• 75% loan-to-value instead of 85% available through CMHC
• Higher interest rates compared to CMHC-insured loans

Only when the client discovered CMHC programs through Scott's team and threatened to cancel did the bank admit they offered those products too. This raises serious questions about whether banks are taking the "easy path" rather than providing optimal solutions for their clients.

Both Jennifer and Christine are active investors themselves, providing them with firsthand understanding of portfolio growth strategies. This investor perspective offers several advantages:

Portfolio Strategy Integration: Rather than viewing each deal in isolation, they consider how each financing decision impacts the client's overall portfolio growth and cash flow optimization.

Long-term Vision: Understanding how current financing choices affect future investment opportunities and portfolio scaling potential.

CMHC Program Optimization: Strategic use of programs like MLI Select to maximize leverage and minimize costs across multiple properties.

From mid-June through the end of July 2025, Scott's team is offering a special incentive: clients who complete a pre-approval or portfolio review are entered into a raffle for a 7-8 day Caribbean cruise in February. This promotion provides an excellent opportunity for investors to get professional portfolio analysis while potentially winning a vacation.

Resources and Next Steps

• Strategy Call Booking: Book with Jennifer, Book with Christine, Book with Scott.
• Portfolio Review Services: Comprehensive analysis of c

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In this episode, Scott interviews Rhys Trenhaille, a commercial real estate specialist who focuses on working with investors in Windsor Essex County. Reese shares his unique journey from university track athlete to successful commercial real estate investor and agent, emphasizing the importance of working with professionals who practice what they preach.

Key Insights & Takeaways

The Power of Early Real Estate Education

Reese's story demonstrates how early exposure to real estate investing can create lasting wealth. While training for track and field at university, he and his teammates purchased seven student rental properties and even two race horses by the time they won a national championship in 1998. This early start led to one teammate retiring at 48 years old, showcasing the long-term wealth-building potential of strategic real estate investment.

Why Experience Matters in Real Estate Teams

Scott emphasizes a crucial point for listeners: always work with real estate professionals who are actively investing themselves. Reese and his team don't just sell properties—they own substantial portfolios, including major development projects worth over $100 million in downtown Windsor. This hands-on experience means they understand the challenges investors face and can provide guidance based on real-world results, not just theory.

Overcoming the First Investment Hurdle

The biggest barrier for new investors isn't financial—it's mental. Reese explains that people who have been employees their entire adult lives struggle most with learning to take calculated risks with their money. The fear and endless questions that plague first-time investors prevent them from moving quickly on good deals, which experienced investors can capitalize on immediately.

Investment Timeline Reality Check:

• First Property: Usually not a "steal" due to inexperience and hesitation
• Second Property: Still learning, asking many questions
• Third-Fourth Property: Finally ready to recognize and act on great deals quickly

This progression is normal and expected. New investors shouldn't expect to hit home runs immediately—building expertise takes time and experience.

Strategic Property Selection for Portfolio Growth

Rather than traditional duplexes that can create financing roadblocks, Reese recommends the BRRRR strategy (Buy, Renovate, Rent, Refinance, Repeat) using properties with additional dwelling unit (ADU) potential:

By adding a basement suite, investors can achieve $1,000+ monthly cash flow, increase property value, and refinance to recover most or all of their initial investment for the next purchase.

Working with the Right Team

Successful real estate investing requires partnerships between experienced agents and financial experts who specialize in investment properties. The team approach helps investors avoid common roadblocks and structure deals for maximum growth potential, including mortgage-plus-improvement financing to fund renovations without using personal capital.

Resources Mentioned

• The Vanguard Team Website: thevanguardteam.com
• Team YouTube Channel: Features recent market analysis videos and investment strategies

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In this episode, Scott is joined by Jennifer Champion and Christine Traynor to discuss value-add strategies for multi-family apartment buildings. The hosts share their active investing experience and explain how to force appreciation through strategic property improvements and rent optimization.

Key Timestamps: [0:00] Introduction to Value-Add Multi-Family Investing

• Focus on forcing appreciation vs. just cashflow
• Why controlling income and expenses matters in multifamily
• Predictable refinance outcomes

[2:30] 💰 Forcing Appreciation Strategy

• Raising rents to market value
• Controllable income and expense factors
• Difference from single-family appreciation methods

[4:15] 📊 Real World Case Study Example

• $1.5 million purchase price
• $200,000 renovation investment
• $2.1 million stabilized value
• 75% LTV refinance at $1.57 million
• Creating infinite returns with zero capital remaining

[7:00] 🏦 Understanding the Two-Loan Strategy

• Bridge loan benefits (interest-only payments)
• Takeout financing for long-term refinancing
• CMHC standard and MOI select options
• Higher loan-to-value possibilities

[9:30] 🌍 Market Selection Considerations

• Landlord-friendly markets like Alberta
• Challenges with rent-controlled markets
• U.S. market opportunities for this strategy

Key Concepts Covered:

Value-Add Strategy Fundamentals:

• Forcing appreciation through property improvements
• Raising rents to market rates
• Creating predictable refinance scenarios
• Achieving infinite returns through strategic refinancing

Two-Loan Structure: Bridge Loan Phase:

• Interest-only payments during stabilization
• Lower carrying costs during renovation period
• Short-term financing solution

Takeout Financing:

• Long-term conventional or CMHC financing
• 5-year terms available
• Access to created equity
• Higher loan-to-value options

Investment Mathematics: Real Example Breakdown:

• Initial investment: $1.5 million purchase + $200,000 renovations
• Total invested: $1.7 million
• Stabilized value: $2.1 million
• Refinance proceeds: $1.57 million (75% LTV)
• Capital recovered while maintaining ownership

Market Selection Criteria: Ideal Markets:

• Landlord-friendly jurisdictions
• Ability to raise rents to market rates
• Limited rent control restrictions
• Strong rental demand fundamentals

Challenging Markets:

• Heavy rent control regulations
• Limited ability to increase rents
• Restrictive landlord-tenant laws

Strategic Advantages:

• Tax efficiency (appreciation vs. taxable cashflow)
• Predictable returns compared to single-family
• Scalable strategy for portfolio growth

Important Considerations:

• Calculate closing costs for both loan transactions
• Factor in all fees and expenses
• Ensure market fundamentals support strategy

Resources Mentioned:

• Book A Call With Jennifer
• Book A Call With Christine

Important Note: This strategy requires careful market analysis and proper financing structure. Investors should

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Welcome back to the Wisdom Lifestyle Money Show! In this episode, host Scott Dillingham introduces you to the core team dedicated to helping you achieve your commercial real estate investment goals. Meet Mike Peters, Jennifer Champion, and Christine Traynor, the experts behind the commercial mortgage arm, specializing in financing across Canada and expanding into the US. Learn about their individual backgrounds, areas of focus, and how their unique perspectives can benefit your investing journey.

Key Timestamps:

[0:00] Introduction to the Wisdom Lifestyle Money Show

• Meet host Scott Dillingham
• Introduction of the commercial financing team: Mike Peters, Jennifer Champion, and Christine Trainor
• Overview of the episode's focus: introducing the team and their expertise in commercial financing

[1:15] Meet Mike Peters: Commercial Mortgage Specialist

• Mike's background in economic development and passion for business growth
• Specialization in business-focused commercial mortgages (restaurants, cemeteries, gas stations, churches)
• Experience with residential income properties (up to sixplexes)
• Collaboration with residential brokers for commercial deals
• The unique nature of commercial mortgage deals requiring a hands-on, business-focused approach

[4:30] Understanding Residential Mortgages on the Commercial Side

• Highlighting the difference between residential and commercial financing
• How commercial financing focuses on property performance and numbers
• Potential options in commercial even when residential financing is limited due to debt ratios
• Property as a business: generating income relative to expenses
• Transitioning to corporate ownership for larger personal property portfolios

[7:45] Meet Jennifer Champion: Value Add Investor

• Jennifer's journey into real estate investing, starting in New Brunswick in 2020
• Focus on value-add strategies with duplexes and fourplexes
• Expansion into commercial projects and current focus on the Alberta market
• Strategy of investing in landlord-friendly provinces with significant opportunities
• Specialization in six, eight, and ten-unit multifamily properties
• Helping others leverage the CMHC MLI Select financing program The Importance of Team Expertise and Multiple Lender Access
• The risks of working with only one bank or inexperienced individuals
• The value of the team's firsthand experience in building and developing multifamily properties
• Access to multiple lenders through the mortgage team for better terms and rates
• Educating investors on programs like MLI Select and building to fit those models
• The significance of partnering with experienced builders The MLI Select Program Explained
• Opportunities in markets like Edmonton due to median rent
• Key features of the MLI Select program: up to 95% loan to cost, 50-year amortization, 1.1 debt service coverage ratio
• The advantage of building to fit the MLI Select model from the outset
• Importance of upfront work and having financing in place Meet Christine Trainor: From Appraiser to Mortgage Expert
• Christine's background: 20 years as a real estate appraiser and business owner
• Natural transition to the mortgage space as a real estate investor
• Focus on helping people build out-of-town investment portfolios (e.g., Victoria to Edmonton)
• The importance of pre-qualifying inv

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In this episode, Scott interviews Tom McCormick, a Canadian investor who successfully transitioned from investing in Windsor to flipping properties in Detroit. Tom shares his engineering background, initial property ventures, and how he navigated the challenges of cross-border investments.

Key Timestamps:
[0:00] Introduction and Guest Background
- Tom's journey into real estate during COVID-19
- From automotive engineering to property investing
- How his brother inspired his first investment

[4:30] 🏠 First Real Estate Purchase
- Creating an additional dwelling unit (ADU)
- Learning through "failing forward"
- Sweat equity and financing challenges
- Scott shares his similar first investment experience

[10:15] 🌎 Transition to U.S. Market Investing
- Advantages of working in the U.S. before investing
- Building U.S. credit history and obtaining SSN
- Comparing Canadian vs. U.S. real estate markets
- Overcoming fears of cross-border investing

[15:45] 🔨 Detroit Property Flip Case Study
- Purchasing a $75,000 property in Detroit's North End
- Managing an "upside-down loan" with higher renovation costs
- Detailed renovation budget breakdown
- Expected ARV of $260,000-$270,000

[20:30] 💰 Partnership Structure and Future Projects
- 50/50 split with investors
- Balancing capital contributions
- Upcoming opportunities: 8-plexes and 12-plexes
- Short-term flips vs. long-term buy-and-hold strategies

Key Concepts Covered:

Cross-Border Investment Advantages:
- U.S. dollar earning potential (30% "raise" through exchange rate)
- Lower price per door compared to Canadian markets
- Different landlord-tenant laws
- Gentrification opportunities in emerging neighborhoods

Detroit Market Specifics:
- C neighborhoods on the cusp of becoming B neighborhoods
- Preserving classic Detroit architectural features
- Balancing modern renovations with historical character
- Managing expectations for selling timeframes (2-month market time)

Property Acquisition & Renovation Strategy:
- Identifying structurally challenged properties at discount
- Strategic improvements for maximum ROI
- Renovation breakdown: structural repairs, electrical rewiring, bathroom additions
- Preserving original wood features for market appeal

Partnership Model:
- Equal skin in the game philosophy (50/50 splits)
- Division of responsibilities (management vs. capital)
- Building long-term relationships for multiple deals
- Leveraging financing to reduce capital requirements

Investment Timeline Examples:
- 4-5 month renovation timeframe
- 6-month total project cycle for flips
- Longer-term (12+ months) for multifamily stabilization

Financing Challenges:
- Managing upside-down loans (renovations exceeding purchase price)
- Lender hesitation with Detroit market
- Importance of building track record for better terms
- Balancing investor capital with financing

Real World Numbers:
- $75,000 purchase price
- $100,000 renovation budget
- $260,000-$270,000 projected ARV
- Potential for higher returns based on market timing (spring selling season)

Resources Mentioned:
- Tom's social media presence on Facebook
- Tom's YouTube channel
- Upcoming link tree for direct connections

Important Note:
Before investing across borders, consider setting up proper legal entities, understanding market fundamentals, and potentially partnering

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In this episode, Scott sits down with Jeremy Friedberg, Corporate Director of Seaport Credit Canada, to discuss how Canadians can leverage their retirement funds for international real estate investments. Jeremy shares his journey from Ontario to Mexico and explains how Seaport Credit helps Canadians access their retirement funds for global investment opportunities.

Key Timestamps:
[0:00] Introduction and Guest Background
- Jeremy's journey from Richmond Hill to Cancun
- Transition from resort real estate to Seaport Credit
- Background in international business

[5:30] 💼 Understanding Seaport Credit's Services
- Explanation of Canadian International Real Estate Loan (CIRL)
- Qualification criteria for potential borrowers
- Process of accessing retirement funds

[10:15] 📊 Financial Breakdown
- 6% loan interest rate
- 4% targeted return through SVF Trust
- Effective cost of 2% after first year
- Detailed fee structure explanation

[15:45] 🏠 Investment Applications
- Global investment opportunities
- Property renovation options
- Solar panel investments
- Multiple loan possibilities

[20:30] 💡 Investment Examples and Success Stories
- Apartment complex renovations
- International property improvements
- Solar panel installations
- Multiple loan case studies

Key Concepts Covered:

CIRL Loan Qualification Requirements:
- $100,000 annual income (individual or combined with spouse)
- OR $400,000 in combined net assets
- Must be a qualified Canadian

Loan Process and Structure:
- 20-year term
- No prepayment penalties
- 6% interest rate
- 4% targeted return through SVF Trust
- Net effective cost of approximately 2% after first year

Investment Options:
- Pre-construction properties
- Finished homes
- Land
- Renovations
- Commercial properties
- Vacation ownership
- Sustainable improvements (solar panels)

Important Financial Considerations:
- All costs rolled into the loan
- No upfront fees required
- Insurance requirements
- Exchange rate considerations
- Processing timeframe (approximately 6 weeks)

Real World Applications:
- Property renovations and improvements
- Solar panel installations for energy cost reduction
- Multiple property investments
- Global real estate opportunities

Resources Mentioned:
- Seaport Credit: seaportcredit.com
- SVF Trust: svftrust.com
- Turnian Financial (Exempt Market Dealer)

Important Note:
*Jeremy emphasizes that while Seaport Credit provides the loan structure, specific investment decisions should be made in consultation with qualified financial advisors. The information provided is for educational purposes only.*

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In this episode, Scott Dillingham interviews Carmen Da Silva, a CPA and cofounder of Share, who brings over two decades of cross-border tax and investment expertise to the discussion. Drawing from her journey from PricewaterhouseCoopers to managing a significant U.S. real estate portfolio and co-founding Share, Carmen shares comprehensive insights on tax strategies, investment structures, and wealth building approaches for Canadians investing in U.S. real estate. Her unique perspective combines professional expertise with personal experience, having successfully navigated both markets while teaching the next generation about building wealth through real estate.

Key Timestamps:
[0:00] Professional Background
- PricewaterhouseCoopers experience
- Family office development
- Investment journey
- Share platform creation

[4:30] Tax Considerations
- Cross-border implications
- State-specific requirements
- Entity structure options
- Tax credit optimization

[8:45] Investment Strategy
- Holding company setup
- State registration
- Asset protection methods
- Portfolio management

[12:30] Entity Structures
- LLC considerations
- Cross-border implications
- Registration requirements
- State-specific needs

[16:45] Estate Planning
- Will considerations
- Cross-border issues
- Asset transfer strategies
- Administrative requirements

[20:30] Investment Education
- Next generation focus
- Early investment benefits
- Cash flow mindset
- Portfolio building strategies

Key Points:

1. Tax Structure

• Cross-border considerations
• State-specific requirements
• Entity formation strategies
• Credit optimization

1. Investment Planning

• Asset protection
• Estate planning
• Generational transfer
• Cash flow management

1. Educational Approach

• Early investment start
• Portfolio building
• Cash flow focus
• Risk management

Contact Information: 
Website: sharesfr.com 
LinkedIn: Available for connections

Important Tips:

• Consider state taxation
• Review entity structures
• Plan estate transfers
• Monitor cash flow
• Evaluate property taxes

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In this episode, Scott Dillingham interviews Derek Wormsbecker, a mortgage agent and investor who shares his experience transitioning from Canadian to U.S. real estate investing. Having sold his Canadian property, Derek describes his journey finding and purchasing a new construction home in Arkansas through Share, highlighting the advantages of U.S. real estate investment.

Key Timestamps:
[0:00] Investment Journey
- Starting in Canadian real estate
- Transition to U.S. markets
- Share partnership experience

[4:30] U.S. Investment Benefits
- Lower entry costs
- Landlord-friendly laws
- Currency advantages
- Market opportunities

[8:45] Market Analysis
- State selection criteria
- Property considerations
- Market fundamentals
- Growth indicators

[12:30] Mortgage Process
- Property-based qualification
- Documentation requirements
- Lender accessibility
- Foreign national programs

Key Points:
1. Investment Strategy
- Market research importance
- Property selection
- Team building
- Exit planning

2. Market Benefits
- New construction options
- Property management
- Tenant regulations
- Cash flow potential

3. Financing Options
- Foreign national programs
- Multiple lender access
- Streamlined qualification
- Expert guidance

Contact Information:
Book a call with Derek
Dereks Website

Important Tips:
- Research market fundamentals
- Consider property size
- Review loan requirements
- Evaluate state regulations
- Verify growth indicators

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In this episode, Scott Dillingham interviews Mark Racette from Pulse FX about saving money when conducting foreign exchange transactions for U.S. real estate investments. Drawing from over a decade of experience in international finance, Mark explains how investors can secure better exchange rates and reduce transaction costs compared to traditional banking options.

Key Timestamps:
[0:00] Market Overview
- Political impacts
- Economic indicators
- Currency forecasts

[4:30] FX Products
- Spot transfers
- Limit orders
- Forward contracts
- Multi-currency accounts

[8:45] Partner Benefits
- Rate optimization
- Market timing
- Payment options
- Fee reduction

[12:30] Cost Comparison
- Bank rates analysis
- Credit union options
- Potential savings
- Transaction examples

Key Points:
1. Service Advantages
- 2-3% consumer savings
- Personalized guidance
- Market monitoring
- Payment flexibility

2. Product Options
- No pre-funding required
- 3-day settlement window
- Domestic wire access
- Multi-currency solutions

3. Transaction Support
- Wire verification
- Bank coordination
- Code validation
- Settlement assistance

Contact Information:
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 416-848-1028
Website: pulsefx.com

Important Tips:
- Compare bank rates
- Consider timing options
- Review fee structures
- Verify wire details
- Monitor market trends

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In this episode, Scott Dillingham interviews Dmitri Bourchtein from Share, discussing his journey from institutional real estate lending to managing over $1 billion in transactions and helping retail investors access U.S. real estate opportunities. Drawing from his extensive experience at one of Canada's largest private equity firms, Dmitri explains Share's comprehensive approach to property acquisition and management.

Key Timestamps:
[0:00] Professional Background
- Institutional experience
- Portfolio growth
- Transaction volume

[4:30] Off-Market Acquisitions
- Sourcing strategies
- Wholesaler networks
- Builder relationships

[8:45] Due Diligence Process
- Property screening
- Inspection requirements
- Renovation assessment

[12:30] Platform Benefits
- End-to-end solutions
- Technology integration
- Market access
- Educational support

Key Points:
1. Investment Process
- Comprehensive screening
- Property management
- Portfolio oversight
- Market analysis

2. Deal Sourcing
- Off-market opportunities
- Institutional connections
- Builder relationships
- Market analysis

3. Value Proposition
- Technology-driven approach
- Institutional access
- Expert oversight
- Educational support

Contact Information:
Website: sharesfr.com

Important Tips:
- Consider full-service support
- Review market analysis
- Evaluate management options
- Access off-market deals
- Leverage institutional expertise

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