Toronto Real Estate Investing with Nicole
Real Estate with Nicole is a Toronto and GTA real estate podcast for people who want to make smarter, more informed real estate decisions.Hosted by Nicole Lopez, the podcast takes a practical look at real estate investing, market trends and the decisions that come with owning property over time.From evaluating an investment opportunity and understanding cash flow to financing, market conditions, neighbourhoods and deciding when it may make sense to buy, hold or sell, Nicole breaks down real estate concepts into useful, easy-to-understand conversations.With a focus on Toronto and communities across the GTA, including Etobicoke, Mississauga, Brampton...
Forced Appreciation in Real Estate: How Investors Can Create Property Value
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What if the real value of a property is hiding in plain sight? Real estate appreciation is not always about waiting for the market to rise. Sometimes, the greatest opportunities come from recognizing what a property could become.Â
 Nicole explores the difference between natural appreciation and forced appreciation, revealing how investors can move beyond market speculation and take a more strategic approach to building wealth. From increasing rental income and reducing operating expenses to making targeted property improvements, she explains how thoughtful decisions can create measurable value.Â
Through the story of...
The 3-Part Wealth Engine for GTA Real Estate Investors
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What if the number that's been stopping you from buying an investment property isn't the one you think?Â
Nicole Lopez strips away the noise of GTA real estate investing and introduces a simple framework she calls the Three-Part Wealth Engine, a way to evaluate any property not just on cash flow, but on the three forces quietly working together to build real wealth: monthly cash flow, mortgage paydown, and long-term appreciation.Â
Using a real Cambridge fourplex as her anchor, Nicole walks listeners through three relatable investor archetypes; Ravi the an...
How Real Estate Investors Can Use a HELOC Responsibly | David Rhodd Part 3
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What if the down payment for your next property is already sitting inside your current one?Â
Nicole Lopez and David Rhodd break down the HELOC (home equity line of credit), one of the most powerful and most misunderstood tools in a GTA investor's toolkit.Â
David explains in plain language how a HELOC works, why up to 65% of your home's value could become working capital, and his golden rule: it came from real estate, so keep it in real estate. You'll hear how borrowing to invest can help make your mo...
Does Your Mortgage Still Fit Your Real Estate Investment Plan? | David Rhodd Part 2
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What if the mortgage you signed isn't built for the life you're living now?Â
Nicole Lopez continues her conversation with mortgage broker David Rhodd, and this time, they bring the numbers home.Â
Together, they unpack the real reasons people refinance (hint: it's rarely just the rate), why 80% of homeowners refinance within five years of signing, and how a single debt consolidation conversation with the right broker could free up $800 a month in cash flow.Â
They dig into the CID framework; credit, income, and equity, and why reviewing you...
Reading the GTA Real Estate Market Before Your Next Investment Move | David Rhodd Part 1
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What if the moment everyone's waiting for has already arrived…and most people are too nervous to notice?Â
Nicole Lopez sits down with mortgage specialist David Rhodd for Part One of a three-part conversation that cuts through the noise and brings the GTA market into sharp, practical focus.Â
They explore what the Canadian Real Estate Association's latest numbers actually mean at the local level, why condo prices in Toronto are taking a harder hit than the suburbs, and what are doing differently right now.Â
David explains why inter...
Toronto Is Not One Market: A Peel Region Spotlight for Real Estate Investors
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Everyone wants to know if the Toronto market is good or bad right now. But what if that's the wrong question entirely?
This is a bonus mini episode that challenges one of the most common mistakes GTA investors make: treating Toronto like a single, uniform market.Â
Nicole breaks down why a downtown condo, an East York semi, a Brampton family home, and a Durham duplex are four completely different investor conversations and why the real opportunity in the GTA isn't in reading the headlines, it's in reading t...
GTA Real Estate Investing: Know Your Why Before You Buy
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What if the best deal you ever made had nothing to do with the property?Â
This episode closes out the Real Estate Investor's Blueprint series and it's the most personal episode yet.Â
After shifting the investor mindset in episode 45 and decoding the eight profit centers in episode 46, Nicole brings it all together with the question that should sit underneath every spreadsheet, every renovation plan, and every late-night scroll through realtor.ca: what is this all for?Â
Through the lens of Discount Dan, Renovating Rita, and leg...
The 8 Profit Centres Inside Real Estate Investment Properties
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Most investors think real estate wealth comes from one place: buy, wait, sell.Â
But what if a single property could generate wealth in eight different ways…sometimes simultaneously?
Nicole picks up where the investor mindset conversation left off, this time diving deep into the eight profit centers that transform an ordinary property into a multi-layered wealth-building machine.Â
Nicole uses the science of snowflake formation to illustrate how every investor's wealth journey is shaped by unique choices, timing, and strategy.
Through three memorable investor archetypes; Discount Dan...
One Real Estate Property, but Three Investors Saw it Differently
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What separates successful real estate investors from everyone else?Â
It’s not money, it’s mindset.Â
Nicole explains why the key to building wealth begins with changing the way you view property. Rather than buying with emotion, investors evaluate opportunities based on strategy, financial potential, and long term goals.Â
Through the relatable examples of Discount Dan, Renovating Rita, and John and Sarah, she demonstrates how the very same duplex can represent instant equity, forced appreciation, or long term cash flow depending on an investor’s objectives.Â
Get Ready for SPRING with a Healthy Home Inspection!
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Is your home ready to spring into the new season?Â
Nicole Lopez welcomes certified master home inspector Michael Tita to help homeowners and investors get ahead of costly surprises by prepping for the season change.Â
From the sneaky dangers of winter wear and tear to the overlooked goldmine of pre-listing inspections, Michael shares the top three must-do spring maintenance tips that can make or break your property’s value—roof, drainage, and window caulking.Â
Whether you're selling, buying, or simply maintaining your property, this episode is packed with re...
Will Toronto's Spring Real Estate Market EXPLODE in 2025?
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Spring is here, and with it comes one of the busiest seasons in real estate!Â
Nicole dives deep into the ever-evolving Greater Toronto Area (GTA) real estate market, breaking down the latest trends, economic factors, and tax updates that buyers and sellers need to know.Â
With new listings on the rise but sales slowing down, Nicole explores whether we’re headed for a market cooldown.Â
She unpacks how rising tariffs, shifting interest rates, and consumer confidence are shaping housing prices and demand.Â
Plus, she shares essent...
From Firefighter to Real Estate Magnate: The Dave Seymour Story
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Dave Seymour is a former firefighter with an inspiring story to tell. He went from working in the fire hall to real estate mogul and TV personality from A&E’s Flipping Boston.Â
In this episode, Dave shares his powerful journey from growing up in England’s council estates to building wealth through real estate, overcoming financial struggles, and redefining what it means to succeed. He opens up about the mindset shifts that changed his life, the importance of mentorship, and the real strategies behind building generational wealth.Â
Whether you're...
Mortgage Mastery: Navigating the Real Estate Market
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Is homeownership still within reach for first-time buyers in today's challenging market?
Nicole Lopez sits down with award-winning mortgage agent Michael Dorego to break down the biggest obstacles facing new buyers—especially the all-important down payment.Â
Michael shares creative financing solutions, including the little-known Ourboro program, regional down payment assistance, and strategic mortgage structuring.Â
From guarantor-backed loans to cash-back mortgage options, this episode is packed with practical insights to help aspiring homeowners navigate the ever-changing real estate landscape.Â
If you think owning a home is impos...
The 7 Essentials of Real Estate Trends
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Is now the right time to invest in real estate? Or should you wait for better conditions?
Nicole Lopez dives deep into the current state of the real estate market and what it means for both new and expert investors.
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She explores the importance of understanding the "big picture" before making investment decisions, emphasizing the need to define your personal "why" for entering the market.
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Nicole breaks down seven key factors influencing real estate today—including interest rates, job security, population growth, housing supply, regulatory changes, global even...
The Evolution of Canadian Housing: Lessons from the Past
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What can the past teach us about the future of real estate in Canada?Â
Nicole explores the captivating evolution of the Canadian real estate market, from its roots in Indigenous land stewardship to today’s dynamic, tech-driven industry.Â
Nicole dives into the transformative impact of pivotal events like the Hudson's Bay Company landholdings, federal housing acts, and the rise of urbanization.Â
She also highlights how affordability and sustainability are reshaping the landscape, offering actionable insights for buyers, sellers, and investors navigating today’s market.
Listen...
Moving to be closer to family - Strategic Planning for Multi-Generational Living
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One of the top reasons for moving for Canadians is to be closer to family.
Nicole looks into the emotional, practical, and financial factors driving the decision to relocate for family.Â
From childcare support and elder care to the rise of multi-generational households in the GTA, Nicole unpacks the key considerations that influence real estate investments and family dynamics.Â
She highlights the challenges of caregiver burnout, the importance of accessible housing, and the role of community amenities.
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08:15 – Elder Care and Cana...
Beyond Four Walls: Canadian Sentiment & The BENEFITS of Owning a Home
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A nice backyard. At least a bit of front yard. This used to be middle income goals for almost every Canadian. Expectations quite frankly. But is the idea of homeownership now a luxury? A stretch target?
Nicole looks the current state of Canadian sentiment with regards to homeownership, revealing the challenges and rewards.
She explores rising home prices, interest rates and data gleaned from research on the topic while also celebrating the benefits of owning a home—from building wealth and stability to fostering community ties and generational wealth.
Is Your Home WINTER Ready For The Cold Season?
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Get ready for the cold season with Nicole’s ultimate winter preparedness checklist!
She reflects on her own heating mishap and turns it into a lesson-packed episode covering energy efficiency, preventing pipe freezes, roof maintenance, and even leveraging ceiling fans for warmth.
From inspecting your roof and eaves to preparing your plumbing and HVAC system, Nicole’s got you covered.
Listen For
05:27 – How property maintenance impacts home value and potential buyer interest
12:39 – Furnace maintenance: replacing filters and scheduling inspections
15:05 – Protect your pipes from freez...
Are Government Policy Changes Creating Real Estate Opportunities?
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Will government policies help unlock the door to your dream home?
Nicole sits down with David Rhodd, principal mortgage broker of Limitless Solutions Financial Group, to explore new legislative changes aimed at improving housing affordability in Canada. They look at changes affecting insured mortgage limits, 30-year amortizations, stress tests on mortgage renewals, and new refinancing rules for secondary suites.
David also shares the importance of financial literacy, offering practical advice on turning a home into a wealth-building tool.
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2:25 New Government Policies for...
Generational Perspectives on Real Estate Investment
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Nicole explores the impact of different generations on real estate investment, particularly in the Greater Toronto Area.Â
She explores the unique viewpoints and challenges that baby boomers, Gen X, millennials, and Gen Z face, showing how their life experiences and economic situations shape their outlook on real estate. Â
Understanding these generational shifts is key to spotting trends and opportunities in the market.Â
Chapters
05:28 Baby Boomers: Equity and Lifestyle Changes
08:22 Generation X: Balancing Responsibilities and Investments
10:45 Millennials: Challenges and Urban Aspirations
13:09 Generation Z...
Family, Freedom, and Finances: The Real Reasons Behind Relocating
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Are you thinking about moving or investing in real estate? Â
In this episode of, host Nicole Lopez dives into the top reasons Canadians are on the move. Â
From the growing trend of relocating to be closer to family, to building wealth through homeownership, Nicole explores why now is a pivotal time for real estate decisions. Â
She also discusses upsizing, downsizing, and how job changes impact where people choose to live. Â
Packed with insights, statistics, and upcoming trends, this episode is a must-listen for those curious abou...
How to Assign a Real Estate Pre-Construction Sale
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Ever wondered how some investors can buy and sell properties before they're even built? Â
In this episode, Nicole looks at the intriguing world of assignment sales, where the original buyer of a pre-construction property transfers their purchase rights to another buyer before the property is completed. Â
Nicole breaks down the process using the story of a savvy investor who successfully navigated an assignment sale to free up liquid cash for a new opportunity. Â
Listen For:
03:36 - Why Would Someone Sell Pre-Construction?
06:18 -Why...
Decode Real Estate Jargon Like a Pro
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Do you find real estate jargon overwhelming? Â
In this episode, host Nicole Lopez breaks down common real estate terms like MLS, freehold, condo, closing costs, and more. Â
From understanding the difference between chattels and fixtures to the ins and outs of bidding wars, Nicole provides practical tips and insightful anecdotes to help listeners navigate the complex world of real estate. Â
Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or an experienced investor, this episode is packed with information to empower your next real estate decision.Â
List...
The Art and Science of Down Payments
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Ready to take the plunge into real estate but feel daunted by the down payment?Â
In this episode, Nicole breaks down the art and science behind securing a down payment for your dream home.Â
From understanding market trends and interest rates to exploring creative savings strategies and government programs, Nicole equips you with all the tools you need to be prepared and confident in your real estate journey.Â
Nicole shares how to align your financial habits with your real estate goals and build the right team to gui...
Mindset and Strategy: The Pillars of Generational Wealth
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Want to leave a lasting legacy for your loved ones?
In this episode, Nicole dives deep into the concept of generational wealth and its transformative impact on families.
Through the contrasting stories of the Joneses and the Smiths, she illustrates how mindset, financial literacy, and strategic planning can make or break a family's financial future across generations.
Packed with practical advice on diversifying investments, educating the next generation, and cultivating a growth-oriented perspective, this episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to build a solid foundation of...
Charting Your Real Estate Journey: From Dreams to Deeds
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Your real estate journey is as unique as your fingerprint!
In this episode, Nicole explores the diverse and deeply personal paths individuals take in the world of real estate.
From a single mother named Claire who builds a stable future for her children, to investors like Petra and Josh who navigate the market based on their financial situations and risk tolerance, Nicole delves into the factors that make each real estate journey distinct.
Covering financial backgrounds, lifestyle preferences, market conditions, and more, she provides insights and actionable...
Planning Your US Real Estate Investment - Know Your Numbers / Affordability
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Dreaming of warm winters and beachside living?
In this episode Nicole shares the story of Sarah's parents as they explore investing in a Florida retirement property.
They navigate the nuances of cross-border real estate investments, including financing options, mortgage differences, and the importance of having a detailed action plan.
The main takeaway is the crucial role of a well-crafted action plan in making informed real estate decisions. Join us to learn how thorough research, strategic planning, and professional guidance can help you achieve your real estate goals.<...
Cross Border Ventures for Canadians
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Why just dream of palm trees and sunshine when you can own a piece of it?
In this episode, Nicole explores the booming opportunities for Canadian investors in the US market. With statistics highlighting significant Canadian purchases in top states like Florida, Arizona, and California, Nicole provides a comprehensive guide to navigating this lucrative landscape.
She covers essential factors such as potential benefits, challenges, and practical tips for a successful investment journey, emphasizing the importance of thorough research, working with trusted professionals, and understanding the legal and financial implications.<...
Strategic Moves in a Shifting Market
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Interest rates are dropping, and the real estate market is heating up!
In this episode of, Nicole Lopez explores the significant implications of the recent 25 basis point drop in the Bank of Canada’s benchmark interest rate for buyers, sellers, and investors. She provides a detailed analysis of how these changes affect mortgage affordability, market dynamics, and long-term planning.
Drawing parallels from Operation Overlord, Nicole emphasizes the importance of strategic timing, meticulous planning, and perseverance in navigating the real estate landscape.
Listen For:
3:00 - Ba...
Groundhog Day for Buyers: The Endless Real Estate Cycle
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Toronto has cooled – but Calgary's real estate market is on fire!
In this episode, Nicole explores Cow Town’s booming market with Carlin Lutzer, a top real estate agent from CIR Realty.
Together, they discuss the driving factors behind the frenzy, the impact on buyers and sellers, and strategies for navigating this competitive landscape. Are they different from ones we’ve seen in Toronto?
Carlin also touches on Calgary's economic diversification and future market predictions, offering valuable perspectives for anyone considering a move or investment in the area.<...
Home Insurance: How to Safeguard Your Greatest Asset
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Anchor your investment with wisdom from the 'wise builder'.
In this episode Nicole explores types of home insurance, factors affecting premiums, and practical steps for securing the best coverage to protect your investment.
Through compelling real-life stories and practical advice, she emphasizes the importance of understanding policy details, regularly reviewing coverage, and being proactive in maintaining your home.
Whether you're a first-time buyer or a seasoned homeowner, this episode will guide you in laying a solid financial foundation.
Listen For:
0:40 – Parable of th...
Through the Looking Glass: Shifting Perspectives in Toronto Real Estate
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Owning a home: it can feel like a dream in a Wonderland reality.
In this episode, Nicole examines the parallels between Alice's journey and our post-pandemic real estate landscape, where the rules of the game seem to be rewritten, leaving us more hopeful.
She decodes the whimsy of this Wonderland, painting a picture of a society that has emerged from the rabbit hole of uncertainty with a renewed perspective on renting versus owning.
Despite the challenges and the fantastical twist of today's market, Nicole reassures us that...
Mortgage Fraud and Title Insurance
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Mortgage paid off but still in debt?
Mortgage and title fraud is a rising and serious concern in Canada. Title insurance can be your financial shield. In this episode Nicole outlines the alarming scenario of homeowners suddenly finding themselves in default, years after paying off their mortgages due to fraudulent claims— a real-life twist that's becoming all too common.
Title insurance emerges as the unsung hero, providing a one-time purchase that safeguards your property rights against a variety of risks including fraud, survey disputes, and undisclosed liens.
Ni...
Emotional Connections Through Home Staging
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Home staging works!
Dive into the world of home staging with Nicole and home stager Niasha Bell as they share the creative force behind Staging by Nash Decor.
Niasha shares her journey from banking to realizing her dream as a professional home stager, illustrating the power of staging in creating emotional connections for potential buyers. The conversation delves into the nuanced art of decluttering, depersonalizing, and highlighting a home's best features, emphasizing staging as a strategic marketing tool rather than mere decoration.
In a discussion that's both...
Future Foundations: Planning Your Home for the Long Haul
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In this episode, Nicole Lopez guides someone currently navigating the complex journey of purchasing a home, highlighting the need for meticulous planning and long-term thinking.
They explore the evolving aspirations of homebuyers, the intricacies between buyer desires and market realities, and the psychological nuances of staging a home for sale.
Nicole highlights the importance of understanding affordability and taking advantage of available programs when planning to buy a home.
She emphasizes the personal touch in real estate transactions, the importance of aligning with a realtor who truly...
Unlocking the Doors to Home Ownership in the Greater Toronto Area
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There really are many programs specifically tailored to help homebuyers navigate the complex path to purchasing a home.
A shared-equity program is highlighted as the episode sheds light on how this resource offers a lifeline to support homebuyers.
Guest: Lorne Andrews, GTA Mortgage Lending, Dominion Lending Centres
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Contact Nicole Lopez
Real Estate Agent
Royal LePage Credit Valley Real Estate, Brokerage
...
Breaking Barriers: Women and Financial Literacy
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As a woman, if you've ever said (or thought) "I don't understand this," when it comes to financial planning, this episode will simply change how you think.
Sara McCullough, a seasoned expert from WD Development with over two decades in the finance sector, passionately advocates for a deeper awareness of one’s financial landscape and the significance of making educated choices. She challenges listeners to discard any self-doubt about their financial acumen, to embrace a positive relationship with money, and to understand the emotional dynamics at play.
Sara underscores th...
Making Sense of Reverse Mortgages
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A reverse mortgage is a financial tool that allows homeowners aged 55 and above (in Canada) to borrow against the equity in their homes. A reverse mortgage could be beneficial in scenarios such as funding home renovations, helping adult children with down payments for their own homes, or supplementing income for seniors with high healthcare expenses.
Reverse mortgages do not require income verification or stress tests, and repayment is flexible, with no payments required until the home is sold or the last homeowner passes away. Remember ALL homeowners on the title must...
How a Brampton Business Owner Came to Serve Tea to the King
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Early on in his business Daniel Lewis committed to being local. He started a tea business… which ultimately led to a rendezvous with royalty.
Lewis is an entrepreneur, author, motivational speaker, and the 2023 chair of the Brampton Board of Trade. In this episode Daniel shares his story starting his tea business, T by Daniel, and how it grew from a local venture to an international brand. He emphasizes the importance of community involvement and creating memorable experiences for customers. This is what helped him become international.
Lewis also discusses his...
Equity Gains & Navigating the Evolving Real Estate Landscape of Toronto and Surrounding Areas
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There are lots of famous quotes by famous people about the value of history. One example is by Teddy Roosevelt, “I believe the more you about the past the better you are prepared for the future.”
In this episode, Robert Malcolm of Perch Mortgage Brokerage discusses the history and future trends of the real estate market in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). There’s been significant growth in property equity since 1989, with an increase of 336%.
Malcolm also discusses the impact of interest rates on the real estate market, noting the hi...