In this episode of umber talks, Kristen, Shaun, and Matt dive into the world of luxury real estate in Oakville. From stunning multimillion-dollar homes to the art of customization, we discuss the standout features and finishes that make these properties truly one of a kind. Whether you’re building a custom home or exploring Oakville listings, we explore how to showcase these incredible properties and navigate the luxury market with buyers and sellers alike. If you love architecture, design, and luxury living, this episode is for you!

In this episode of Umber Talks, Shaun and Matt Denis sit down with Rob Burton, Mayor of Oakville, to explore what makes Oakville one of Canada’s most family-friendly and dynamic communities. From the town’s investment in shared spaces and sports facilities like the Toronto Rock Athletic Center, to the importance of supporting local small businesses, Mayor Burton shares his vision for a thriving Oakville. We also dive into his surprising role in bringing the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles to Canadian television! Whether you’re interested in Oakville’s development, local business growth, or just curious about the town’s unique charm, this episode is packed with insights!

In this episode, we sit down with Megan van Rijt, Sales and Marketing Director at Parkview Homes, to explore her incredible journey through the world of real estate, sales, and design. From her early days as a designer to leading sales teams at some of Ottawa's most prominent builders, Megan shares her insights on everything from design trends to sales strategies. We discuss how her background in art and interior design has shaped her approach to creating homes that truly resonate with buyers, as well as where she sees home design heading in the coming years. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just curious about the real estate industry, this episode offers valuable takeaways for everyone!

In this special episode of Umber Talks, we turn the mic to you! Join us as Shaun and I explore key elements influencing the future of the housing market— from interest rates and housing supply to economic trends and more. As we discuss each variable, we invite you to weigh in with your own insights and predictions. Are we in for a market shift, or will things hold steady? Your perspective is what makes this conversation complete. Listen, reflect, and share your take on where the real estate market is heading!

From the archives, we welcome back Dan Enns, Associate Advisor and wealth management expert, to dive into the essentials of financial planning. Dan shares his insights on managing client assets, creating comprehensive financial and estate plans, and guiding clients toward a secure retirement. He simplifies complex concepts like stocks, bonds, GICs, mutual funds, and ETFs, making them accessible for everyone. Whether you're new to finance or looking to diversify your portfolio, Dan’s practical advice and clear explanations will help you navigate the world of investments with confidence.

In this episode, we welcome back Sarah Vandenbelt, a seasoned commercial real estate agent in Ottawa with deep roots in the industry. Sarah shares her extensive knowledge and experience working with business owners who purchase and occupy commercial properties. We dive into her family's history in real estate, the unique aspects of commercial versus residential real estate, and the importance of networking in this field. Sarah also discusses how understanding clients' needs, conducting thorough due diligence, and evaluating zoning laws are crucial steps in securing the right property. Whether you're looking to buy, occupy, or invest, this episode offers invaluable insights on leveraging real estate to grow your business. This is a pre-recorded episode, but too good not to share! 

In this episode, we welcome back architect Brandon Lawrence, a returning guest known for his extensive knowledge across all types of property builds. We dive deep into where Brandon draws his inspiration, explore the most popular materials and products used in today's construction, and discuss everything from custom homes to multi-unit and commercial properties. Whether you’re looking to build your dream home, invest in multi-unit developments, or explore commercial opportunities, Brandon shares valuable insights into the process, including selecting the right lots, understanding building allowances, and more. Tune in for a wealth of expertise from a leading voice in architecture.

In this episode, we sit down with Derek Nzeribe, a renowned pre-construction expert, to explore the ins and outs of buying pre-construction properties. Derek provides an in-depth look at the entire process from a buyer’s perspective, sharing invaluable tips and tricks to help navigate this unique and often complex market. We delve into the specifics of purchasing a property off a floor plan, emphasizing the importance of knowing the areas and builders involved. Derek sheds light on how financing for a pre-construction property works, discussing the various options available to buyers. Additionally, Derek highlights the flexibility and opportunities for customization that come with pre-construction properties, including selecting design options to tailor your future home to your preferences. Join us for this comprehensive guide to pre-construction buying, filled with expert advice and insights to help you make informed and confident decisions in your real estate journey.

In this episode, we sit down with our Toronto/GTA agent and brother, Matt Denis, to explore his fascinating journey in real estate. Matt shares his experiences living in New York, detailing his time as a mentor at a specialized school in Manhattan, and his career in real estate. Matt is a multi-faceted and highly intelligent individual, seamlessly balancing his diverse experiences and extensive knowledge in the real estate industry. We dive into a day in the life of a realtor, discussing the flexibility and fulfillment the job provides. Matt reflects on his career in real estate, summarizing the challenges and milestones he’s encountered, the types of clientele and properties he works with, and emphasizing the values he brings to his work—caring deeply for his clients, maintaining meticulous attention to detail, and staying up-to-date with market trends and product knowledge. Tune in to hear Matt's insights and experiences, and get a glimpse into the life of a dedicated Toronto real estate agent.

In this special episode, hosts Kristen and Shaun take a moment to check in and discuss a range of exciting topics. They explore the future of the podcast, including plans for international expansion, featuring more guests, and overall growth. Kristen and Shaun delve into the fascinating concept of Blue Zones, provide insights on the current Canadian real estate market, and share tips on timing your purchase and sale in the current economic landscape. Plus, they catch up on what they’ve been up to lately and announce an exciting giveaway happening right now. Tune in for a dynamic and informative conversation!