Real Estate Development Insights Podcast
Episodes:Â
2026-2028 GTA Market Outlook According to CMHC
In this episode, Payam hosts CMHC lead economist for the Greater Toronto Area, Jordan Nanowski, to discuss CMHC’s newly released housing market outlook with a focus on the GTA and Ontario for 2026–2028.
Approved vs. Buildable: The Gap Breaking Toronto’s Affordable Housing Pipeline
Andrea is the Executive Director at St. Clair’s, a Toronto-based charitable organization that operates affordable housing. Mark is the Chief Technology Officer at Rich Analytics and the founder of HousingNowTO.com, a project tracking affordable housing efforts in Toronto. They discuss the current state of affordable housing, practical solutions, and the challenges the sector faces.
Affordable Housing Investment Fund: A Solution to the Affordable Housing Gap
In this episode, we dive into the world of affordable housing with Mwarigha, Vice President of Housing Growth Development and Asset Sustainability at Woodgreen Community Services, one of Canada's leading non-profit affordable housing organizations.
How To Think About Risk, Leverage, And Timing In Real Estate DevelopmentÂ
In this insightful episode, Payam sit down with Mazyar Mortazavi, the President and CEO of TAS, a Toronto-based real estate company.
Data Driven Landlord – Use data for your next purpose built rental
Data Driven Landlord -Use data for your next purpose-built rental- Sarah Segal (#44) Sarah Segal, CEO and co-founder of simplydbs, a Canadian-owned, third-party feedback and analytics platform that gathers resident
Modern Methods of Construction & Canada’s First 3D Printed Building
Modern Methods of Construction & Canada’s First 3D Printed Building – Amy Vilis, Leigh Newman, Stephan Mansour (#43) Amy Vilis is the Director of Housing Growth Innovation at DIGITAL — Canada’s
All about Multiplex Housing: Data from 452 Multiplex Building Permits In Toronto
All about Multiplex Housing: Data from 452 Multiplex Building Permits In Toronto
Industry Outlook; 2026 & Beyond
In this episode of the Real Estate Development Insights podcast, our host Payam sits down with Peter Norman, Vice President and Chief Economist at Altus Group.
Mid-rise Rental Development: Insights from Chris Spoke
In this episode of the Real Estate Development Insights podcast, Payam speaks with Chris Spokes, partner at Toronto Standard, a firm specializing in midrise rental infill in Toronto.
Real Estate Innovation: AI, Technologies, and Future Trends with Arash Shahi
Real Estate Innovation: AI, Technologies, and Future Trends with Arash Shahi
Financing Purpose-Built Rentals
Max Goyzman, Vice President of Financing at Peakhill Capital, delves into the intricacies of Financing Purpose-Built Rentals and commercial real estate lending,
Decarbonizing The Built Environment
In this episode, we discuss the Decarbonizing The Built Environment and the future of green building practices with three experts: David McMillan, from the City of Toronto; Ben Gilbank, Founder and CEO of Alt Crest Energy; and John Rathbone, CEO and Co-Founder of Rothco EMG.
Condos, Rentals, & Market Trends
A deep dive into the real estate market, condos, rentals, and market studies. We discuss the impact of economic conditions, the role of government policies, and the future of real estate in the Greater Toronto Area.
Mid-Rise Manual – A guide to making better cities for the future
Mid-Rise Manual - A guide to making better cities for the future
Building More Than Homes – Sherry Larjani – Spotlight Development
The Canadian housing market faces significant challenges—from affordability crises to zoning restrictions that slow new development. Yet leaders like Sherry Larjani, founder and president of Spotlight Development Inc., are reshaping how we think about housing.
4-Plex to Mid-Rise: Best Development Opportunities in the GTA
In this conversation, we focus on a central question facing many new and aspiring developers today:
What is the best type of development project to pursue in Toronto right now—and why?
Secrets To Longevity In Real Estate Development
In this episode we welcome Justin Aykler from Grid Developments and Aykler Real Estate. With over 20 years of experience in the real estate and development industry,
Construction Costs, Red Tape, and Housing Crisis
In this episode of Real Estate Development Insights, we explore a topic at the heart of every development conversation today: construction costs.
Purpose-Built Rental; Opportunities and Challenges
In this episode, we sit down with Brendan Whitsitt to explore the evolving landscape of purpose-built rental housing (PBR).
Beyond Density: Building Mid-Rises for Community and Connection
Beyond Density: Building Mid-Rises For Community & Connection (#29) Jaegap is a founding principal of Studio JCI, a Toronto-based architecture firm designing and building over eight million square feet of
How To Raise Capital For Real Estate Development?
Learn how to raise capital for mid-rise real estate projects with expert insights from David Roff of Cranson Capital.
Prefabrication, Mass Timber, and Sustainable Construction
In this episode, we welcome architect Matt Bolen, who has been a pioneering force in the field of prefabrication & mass timber construction.
GTA Developments By The Numbers; Insights From Urban Toronto
In this episode, Edward Skira and Ash Navabi from Urban Toronto discuss the comprehensive data and trends in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) real estate market.
Landlord to Real Estate Developer
In this episode, Payam hosts Mike, a seasoned entrepreneur who has made the shift from a landlord to a real estate developer.
Construction Innovation: Balancing Tradition and Modern Solutions – A Practical Framework For Your Next Project
In this episode, Payam discusses the importance of adapting to changes in the construction and real estate development industry. He shares his personal experiences and insights from working on various projects over the years.
Canada Vs. US –Â Housing Crisis; Similarities & Differences
In this episode, Ed shares his experience and insights into the housing crisis solutions being implemented in Massachusetts. They discuss various initiatives like the MBTA Act, which encourages density around public transportation hubs, and the Gateway Cities program aimed at revitalizing older industrial cities.
It Is The Best Time To Become A Real Estate Developer (Potentially!) – Josh Kaufman of InnoDev Partners
In this episode of the Real Estate Development Insights Podcast, I sat down with Josh, a seasoned executive in the housing development industry, to discuss his journey from a high-profile corporate role to co-founding InnoDev Partners.
Mid-Rise Buildings; The Mattamy Way
In this episode of the Real Estate Development Insights Podcast, we interview Dave Dekort, Director of Project Management at Mattamy Homes, to discuss developing mid-rise buildings in the Greater Toronto Area.
Legal Structures in Real Estate Development
In this episode of the Real Estate Development Insights Podcast, we interview Zev, a partner at Gardner Roberts LLP, a full-service law firm in Toronto, to discuss essential legal considerations for real estate developers. From choosing the proper legal structure, whether a limited partnership or a co-tenancy, to the importance of due diligence and the nuances of financing options, Zev provides a comprehensive guide for newcomers and seasoned investors alike. Ideal for anyone looking to understand the complexities of real estate development, this episode offers practical insights and expert advice.
A Conversation with a (New) Real Estate Developer – Jonathan Diamond – Well Grounded Real Estate
In this episode, Jonathan Diamond discusses his unique journey from neuroscience to real estate development. He shares insights about his family's long-term approach to building management and current ambitious projects, including a pioneering multi-use development. Jonathan emphasizes the importance of varied
2024 Recap: Lessons for Real Estate Development
2024 Recap: Lessons For Real Estate Development In this special episode of the Real Estate Development Insights podcast, we take a look back at the first year of the show.
Major Streets & Multiplex Housing; Opportunities For Real Estate Development In Toronto
In this episode of the Real Estate Development Insights Podcast, I interview Michael Testaguzza and Robert McQuillan to discuss recent changes in the City of Toronto's housing policies, focusing on expanding housing options in neighborhoods.
A Conversation with a Real Estate Developer – Shakeel Walji
In this episode of the Real Estate Development Insights Podcast, seasoned real estate developer Shakeel Walji shares insights from his 30-year career in the industry. Shakeel discusses his unconventional journey from engineering to marketing and ultimately into real estate development, where he now manages multiple businesses.
Limberlost Case Study: A Pioneering Mass Timber Project
In this episode of the Real Estate Development Insights Podcast, I sit down with Phil Silverstein, a principal at Moriyama Toshima Architects, to discuss the significance of George Brown College's Limberlost Project as a Pioneering Mass Timber Project.
Building Code Changes, Opportunities, & Shortcomings For Real Estate Developments
In this Real Estate Development Insights Podcast episode, I interview Jack Keays, the principal at Vortex Fire, and we talk about Building Codes changes, opportunities, and shortcomings for real estate developments.
Urban Planning And The Housing Crisis: Insights From Andrew Ferancik
In this episode of the Real Estate Development Insights Podcast, I interview Andrew, a seasoned city planner from WND, about Urban Planning And The Housing Crisis, as he shares his journey into urban planning an
Real Estate Development 101: How to work with your team effectively? (#12)
In this episode of the Real Estate Development Insights Podcast, Rod, the President and Owner of One Space Unlimited Inc., shares his extensive experience and insights into architectural and interior design services, primarily focused on the hospitality and multifamily residential industries across Canada. He emphasizes the importance of assembling the right team, understanding the development process, maintaining flexibility, and the critical role of patience and communication in construction projects.
Structural Systems, Code Changes & Mid-rise Challenges
Raymond Van Groll, discusses the complexities and considerations of structural engineering in real estate development. Covering his extensive experience—from high-rise projects to mid-rise buildings—Raymond elaborates on various construction materials and systems, including concrete, wood, and hybrid systems. He highlights the implications of new building codes, the importance of watertight designs, and the evolving landscape of urban development in Toronto.
Interest Rates, Housing Supply & Other Complex Real Estate Problems
Dr. Haider delves into Interest rates, Housing Supply, and other complex real estate problems in Canada, particularly the persistent housing affordability crisis.
He explains the significant challenges faced by government policies in managing supply and demand, labour productivity issues, and systematic barriers such as NIMBYism and restrictive regulations. The conversation also explores historical housing market trends, the potential of mid-rise developments, and policy changes that might improve the housing situation.
Land Acquisition to Approvals: A Conversation with Hoordad Ghandehari, OAA(#9)
The conversation encompasses crucial aspects of real estate development, particularly focusing on mixed-use and multifamily buildings.
Hoordad explains the importance of due diligence from land acquisition to approvals, design development, foundational architectural concepts, and key considerations for new developers in the real estate sector.
Refugee to Real Estate Developer (#8)
Kostadin Demirov Refugee turned Real Estate Developer, Kostadin Demirov (a.k.a. Kosta) came to Canada as a refugee from Bulgaria. From humble beginnings, through hard work, long-term planning, and resourcefulness, he
Heritage & Building Unique Projects (#7)
Joey Giaimo, OAA, MRAIC, CAHP – Heritage & Building Unique Projects With more than 25 years of experience in the architectural, heritage and engineering professions, he is the founder of Giaimo Architects
Acoustic Engineering & Mass Timber Construction (#6)
Simon Edwards, P.Eng (#6) – Acoustic Engineering & Mass Timber Construction An Acoustical Engineer at HGC in HVAC Noise Control, including the development of internal modelling resources based on continual
Urban Design & Development; A Conversation with George Popper (#5)
George Popper shares his journey from architecture to urban development. We explore the importance of creativity, problem-solving, community engagement in urban projects, and key decisions that shape successful developments.
Facade Systems, Climate Performance, and Important Decisions: Insights from Blair Davies, P.Eng.(4)
.... the trends in mid-rise building projects, offering valuable advice for developers on optimizing facade systems for better performance and aesthetics. Join us for an in-depth conversation on how facades contribute to the functionality, branding, and longevity of modern buildings.
Engineering, Sustainability, and Real Estate Development: A Deep Dive with Cara Sloat (3)
This episode features an insightful conversation with Cara Sloat, a mechanical engineer with over 20 years of experience, focusing on low-energy mechanical systems, decarbonization, and the importance of mechanical engineering in addressing climate change.
Risk, Creativity, and Excellence: Real Estate Development with Sheldon Rosen (#2)
Sheldon D. Rosen (#2) The founder of the SDR Group is an Architect turned Real Estate Developer. Over the past four decades, The SDR Group has been at the forefront
Real Estate Development Toolbox
This free document contains essential resources, tools, and insights and covers Market Trends, Project Management, Construction and Design Resources, Industry Events & Networks, and Professional Development.