We explore Canada's economic stagnation, drawing parallels to Japan's "Lost Decade" of the 1990s. Canada is experiencing its own version of a lost decade with declining productivity (falling for 13 straight quarters despite an educated workforce), stagnant per capita wealth (producing no more wealth per person than in 2014), overreliance on real estate for economic growth (accounting for over 20% of GDP), lack of business investment in productivity-enhancing capital, rising household debt (101.2% of nominal GDP) with stagnant income growth, and housing shortages amid rapid population growth (creating a "population trap"). The hosts warn that conventional economic remedies may be insufficient, as demonstrated by Japan's decades-long stagnation despite trying various policy approaches.

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There are some major shifts in Canada's real estate market in 2025-2027, highlighting three key trends: Interest Rate Stabilization, Collapsing International Student Enrollment, Historic Population Growth Slowdown

• RBC predicts the Bank of Canada will maintain rates at 2.75% with no further cuts expected, forcing investors to adjust their strategies rather than hoping for lower rates.
• Many Canadian colleges are experiencing a 50% drop in international students due to federal policy changes, with some institutions like Conestoga College seeing up to 95% reductions. This is causing significant vacancy risks for student rental investors.
• Canada's population grew by only 20,107 people (essentially 0%) in Q1 2025, the lowest growth in almost 80 years. This is primarily due to reduced immigration and a decrease of 61,000 non-permanent residents.

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Should you buy a rental property or invest in a REIT? In this episode, Dan welcomes Simon from the Canadian Investor Podcast to break down the pros and cons of both strategies. Simon goes over some of the key metrics to look at when analyzing a REIT. From payout ratios and leverage limits to tenant base and growth strategy, we cover the critical factors that separate the good from the bad. Whether you're new to real estate investing or looking to diversify your portfolio, this episode will help you decide which path makes the most sense for your goals.

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Did you know approximately 10% of home sales happen without ever being publicly listed? Off-market properties offer exclusivity and advantages for both buyers and sellers, including privacy, reduced competition, and potentially better negotiation terms.

We explore what makes these deals unique, the appeal of "insider" opportunities, and detail strategies for finding these hidden gems. From driving for dollars and mail campaigns to leveraging wholesaler relationships, this episode gives Canadian investors practical methods to find properties before they hit the market.

These strategies help investors of all experience levels avoid bidding wars and secure better deals off-market. We also address potential drawbacks including pricing challenges and limited exposure, providing a complete view of off-market investing.

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How do Cap Rates work? Why & how they change & why every investor needs to understand them, especially in a down market.

• Cap Rate Math Impact: A 2.5% cap rate increase (4% to 6.5%) can cause a 38.5% property value drop, potentially eliminating equity for leveraged investors.
• Recession Patterns: Cap rates rise during downturns as investors require higher returns for increased risk, even when interest rates initially fall.
• Investor Strategy: Savvy investors avoid assuming further cap rate compression and instead stress-test for expansion to ensure investments can withstand market changes.

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Homeownership remains a strong aspiration for many Canadians despite affordability challenges. A Habitat for Humanity/Deloitte study shows significant benefits of ownership versus renting, including income growth and improved health outcomes. Yet, Canada's homeownership rate dropped from 69% (2011) to 66.5% (2021), with young adults particularly affected.

• Strong Desire Despite Challenges: 84% of young Canadians (18-38) believe homeownership is worthwhile despite affordability issues.
• Measurable Benefits: Homeowners experienced 28% higher incomes than comparable renters, with 73% reporting better physical health.
• Declining Accessibility: Homeownership among 25-29 year-olds fell from 44% to 36.5% over a decade.

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The Canadian housing market in May 2025 showed signs of movement but not a dramatic rebound.

National home sales increased by 3.6% month-over-month, primarily driven by Toronto, Calgary, and Ottawa. However, supply is outpacing demand, with new listings up 3.1% and total active listings up 13.2% year-over-year. The market has entered what's being called a "negotiation market" where buyers have more leverage and choices.

• The market is showing increased activity but remains cautious - sales are up but still 4.3% below last year's levels
• Supply is increasing significantly with the sales-to-new listings ratio at 47%, below the 10-year average of 55%
• Prices are stabilizing with the national average at $691,299, down 1.8% from last May, with significant regional variations - Ontario and BC showing declines while Quebec, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan are seeing increases

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This is a comprehensive guide for first-time real estate investors, covering everything from initial goal-setting to executing investment strategies. Here are three key takeaways:

• Foundation is Critical: Start by setting clear goals and understanding your "why," then create a detailed business plan that will guide your investment journey.
• Build a Strong Network: Success in real estate investing requires a power team of professionals (mortgage agents, real estate agents, lawyers, etc.) and active networking to build relationships that provide opportunities.
• Focus and Execute: Pick a specific asset class and market to focus on, thoroughly analyze deals based on numbers, and stick to your chosen strategy rather than getting distracted.

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