Espace Montréal Podcast

Espace Montréal is proud to introduce its brand-new podcast dedicated to commercial real estate and urban development in the city. Each episode will feature exclusive conversations with developers, investors, brokers, and decision-makers shaping Montréal’s property market. From the evolution of office and retail to industrial and residential trends, we’ll bring insights directly from the people driving the future of the city. Tune in to gain fresh perspectives and stay at the center of Montréal’s commercial real estate scene.

How to Survive with 18% Office Vacancy in Montreal | Concrete Strategies for Property Owners with Laurence Binette 02/13/2026

Is the Montreal Office Market Really Making a Comeback? What the Numbers Don’t Tell You 02/06/2026

Royalmount’s Comeback: The Leasing Playbook Behind Montreal’s Fastest Retail Turnaround 01/30/2026

Royalmount’s Comeback: The Leasing Playbook Behind Montreal’s Fastest Retail Turnaround Royalmount is not just “doing fine” it is accelerating. In this episode sits down with , Partner at and SVP Leasing, to break down what actually drives a successful mixed use destination in Montreal. They explore how consumer habits are changed, why occupancy momentum matters more than first month headlines, and how the right tenant mix, events, and access strategy can reposition an asset quickly. You will hear the measurable results behind the Royalmount lease up, the expansion logic for phase two retail, why a hotel on site makes sense, and how Class A office demand is being reshaped by commute patterns and lifestyle convenience. If you work in development, leasing, investment, or brokerage, this conversation is a masterclass in building durable demand through placemaking and long term vision. Topics & Timestamps 🔹 What Carbonleo is and why they build disruptive projects (00:01:49) 🏗️ Quartier DIX30 repositioning: occupancy, tenant mix, and value creation (00:04:03) 🚆 Why residential is the missing piece and how REM access changes everything (00:05:28) 🧠 Master plan thinking: DIX30 vs Royalmount and why cohesion matters (00:07:20) 📈 Royalmount performance story: sales growth, traffic, and lease up from 36% to 90% (00:09:16) 🎉 Events and social strategy: building habit and destination energy (00:12:02) 🛍️ Phase two retail expansion: what is missing and how growth gets planned (00:13:21) 🏨 Hotel opportunity: brand selection, operator strategy, and why the site wins (00:15:23) 🏢 Office demand shift: Class A, deal terms, and the commute advantage vs downtown (00:16:30) 💎 Luxury perception vs reality: why the project is more accessible than people think (00:21:12) 🏘️ Residential rezoning: density, downsizers, and solving a real market gap (00:23:16) 🔗 Connect with Michael Stroll 💼 LinkedIn: 🏢 CARBONLEO: 👤 Follow Axel Monsaingeon 💼 LinkedIn: 📸 Instagram: 🌐 Explore more resources 📊 Market guides, data, and advertising opportunities: /episode/index/show/realestateeffect/id/39928775

How to Build a $1.2B REIT from Scratch — Lessons from BTB’s Founder 01/23/2026

Why Buyers and Sellers Finally Moved in 2025, and What’s Next for Quebec CRE 01/16/2026

Why Buyers and Sellers Finally Moved in 2025, and What’s Next for Quebec CRE Quebec’s commercial real estate market has changed fast, and the old “local only” playbook does not hold up anymore. , partner at , joins to unpack what appraisers are seeing before the headlines: how developers now chase opportunities across the province, why 2024 felt frozen, and what shifted in 2025 to bring buyers and sellers closer together. Louis also shares the real story behind PDG’s roots coming out of Desjardins, how the firm grew through acquisitions and mergers, and why a merger has to be “1 + 1 = 3” or it is not worth doing. They dig into PDG’s full-service model from valuation and property management to tax appeals, litigation support, and expropriation tied to major projects like the REM and the Blue Line extension. Louis closes with what PDG is building for 2026, including a refreshed brand and a bigger push to share market insights, plus why comparing cap rates is often harder than people think. Topics & Timestamps 🗺️ The market is not local anymore: developers go wherever opportunity is (00:00:00) 🧬 HPDG’s “DNA”: staying close to clients from market study to asset management (00:01:13) 🏦 Origin story: Desjardins, the 90s crash, and how HPDG was formed (00:02:06) 📈 Growth strategy: the 2018 merger and expansion through acquisitions (00:04:02) 🏢 How property management started: from crisis cycles to condo management (00:06:25) 🧾 Beyond financing valuations: tax appeal work and investor support A to Z (00:08:18) ⚖️ Litigation support and expropriation: REM and Blue Line context (00:09:35) 🧠 Expropriation valuation is different and the law has changed (00:10:58) 🚀 Entrepreneurship is not linear: expanding services across Quebec (00:11:41) 🤝 Merger mantra: “1 + 1 has to equal 3”, and why they ended a merger (00:12:55) 📊 What changed in 2025: market rebound and buyer-seller gap narrowing (00:16:40) 🏙️ Where deals are happening: multi, office, industrial shifting behavior (00:17:30) 🏗️ Office market reality: towers, notable deals, and transactions not announced yet (00:18:38) 🔄 2026 plans: rebrand + sharing more market insights and data (00:20:59) 🍎🍎 Cap rates “apples to apples” problem and confidentiality constraints (00:23:26) 🌐 Best way to contact HPDG: website and LinkedIn (00:24:17) 🔗 Connect with Louis Bergeron 💼 LinkedIn:🏢 Avison Young: 👤 Follow Axel Monsaingeon 💼 LinkedIn: 📸 Instagram: 🌐 Explore more resources 📊 Market guides, data, and advertising opportunities: /episode/index/show/realestateeffect/id/39758665

Montreal CRE 2026 Outlook: Office Comeback, AI, Housing Policy, and Where Capital Is Moving 01/09/2026

Montreal CRE 2026 Outlook: Office Comeback, AI, Housing Policy, and Where Capital Is Moving Montreal commercial real estate is entering 2026 with a very different set of tailwinds and constraints. In this episode, Axel Monsaingeon sits down with James Papadimitriou, Senior Partner at and a long-time governance leader, to unpack what is actually changing beneath the headlines. They cover why “alternative” real estate is increasingly an operating business (hotels, senior living, data centers, student housing), how AI and automation could reshape industrial and construction productivity, and what programs like Canada Builds Homes could mean for financing, land, and delivery speed. They also dig into the macro shifts that matter for Montreal: defense and infrastructure momentum, immigration resets and rental dynamics, the return of in-person work and what that does to Class A office, and why boring and stable is still Canada’s biggest advantage for global capital. Expect a grounded, optimistic, long-term lens on where the puck is going and how to position for it. Topics & Timestamps 🎙️ Intro and James’ path to leading in real estate law and governance (01:03) 🤝 Relationship advantage: empathy, humility, and understanding counterparties (02:31) 🏨 Alternative assets surge: senior living, hotels, data centers, student housing (03:50) 🧠 “Stay calm and carry on”: cycles, resilience, and the long game in CRE (05:25) 🤖 AI and robotics: legal guardrails, industrial automation, “dark factories” (07:39) 🏗️ Why construction still lags, and what prefab could finally unlock (10:18) 🏠 Housing urgency and delivery: what Canada Builds Homes is trying to solve (12:05) 🧩 Canada Builds Homes toolkit: land, loan guarantees, lending, partnerships (13:05) 🛡️ Defense and infrastructure: where Montreal-area real estate opportunities may emerge (15:58) 🌎 Immigration reset, rent plateaus, and the pendulum effect (18:55) 🏢 2026 theme: the return of office and the value of in-person community (20:36) 🚆 Transit and downtown recovery: REM, foot traffic, and the payoff of disruption (22:36) 💰 Foreign capital and “vibe vs fundamentals”: why investors never really left (24:55) ⚡ Canada’s edge: energy, resources, and renewed confidence (27:28) 🔗 Connect with James Papadimitriou 💼 LinkedIn:🏢 Avison Young: 👤 Follow Axel Monsaingeon 💼 LinkedIn: 📸 Instagram: 🌐 Explore more resources 📊 Market guides, data, and advertising opportunities: /episode/index/show/realestateeffect/id/39664405

Persist to 2026: Why Net Lease Real Estate Is Winning in an Uncertain Market 01/02/2026

Persist to 2026: Why Net Lease Real Estate Is Winning in an Uncertain Market The commercial real estate recovery everyone expected in 2025 did not arrive. Instead, investors are being forced to rethink risk, cash flow, and capital allocation heading into 2026. In this episode of the Espace Montreal Podcast, Axel Monsaingeon speaks with Marie-Claire Laflamme-Sanders, Senior Vice President and Practice Lead within ’s Québec Capital Markets Team, about why net lease real estate has become one of the most resilient investment strategies in today’s uncertain market. Drawing on insights from the Toronto Real Estate Forum and active transactions across Canada, Marie-Claire explains how investors are pricing stability, why single-tenant assets are back in favor, and how net leases function as a hybrid between real estate and corporate bonds. The conversation also covers the return of interest in office real estate, the rise of sale-leaseback transactions as companies unlock capital, and why Montreal continues to attract both private and institutional investors despite ongoing political and economic headwinds. This episode offers a grounded, real-world look at how sophisticated investors are protecting cash flow and positioning portfolios for the next phase of the cycle. Topics & Timestamps 🎙️ Net lease real estate, and why it matters right now (intro) 01:03 📉 “Survive to 2025” becomes “Persist to 2026” after early-year shocks 01:55 🇨🇦 Market reaction: tariffs, immigration slowdown, and a new operating reality 03:11 ⏸️➡️▶️ Pens were down, now deals are moving again 05:18 🏢 What a net lease is (single tenant, triple net, expenses passed through) 06:51 🛡️ Why net lease wins in volatility: stability, inflation protection, bond-like cash flow 07:28 📈 Why demand for net lease increased in the last 12–18 months 09:04 ⚖️ The big risk and the real framework: tenant covenant vs real estate quality 11:06 📉➡️🏢 Sale-leasebacks explained: why companies sell and lease back their buildings 12:38 📆 How long sale-leaseback leases need to be (10–15 years, often 20+) 13:52 🏦 Who buys net lease assets: institutions vs family offices and privates 14:12 🍔 Net lease in small markets: QSR portfolios, recyclability, and why they sell well 15:22 🏢 Office resurgence: lease rollovers, return-to-work, and the “flight to quality” 17:17 🚫 “We could not use the word office” and how that narrative is changing 19:08 🏙️ Deloitte Tower and what a Class A trade could benchmark in Montreal 20:29 💰 Montreal’s buyer depth: why big private capital steps up locally 21:45 🧠 Quebec perception gap: language, politics, tenant culture, and investor education 23:16 👋 Wrap and how to connect with Marie-Claire and the team 25:01 🔗 Connect with Marie-Claire Laflamme-Sanders 💼 LinkedIn: 🏢 Avison Young: 👤 Follow Axel Monsaingeon 💼 LinkedIn: 📸 Instagram: 🌐 Explore more resources 📊 Market guides, data, and advertising opportunities: /episode/index/show/realestateeffect/id/39589430

Commercial Real Estate in Quebec Is Splitting Into Winners and Losers: What 2026 Will Reward 12/26/2025

Commercial Real Estate in Quebec Is Splitting Into Winners and Losers: What 2026 Will Reward 2025 was a turning point for Quebec commercial real estate, and the gap between winners and losers is getting wider. In this end-of-year conversation, Axel Monsaingeon sits down with Andrew Cross to unpack what actually shifted across office, retail, and industrial, and what smart owners, investors, and tenants should watch as 2026 begins. They talk about why strong malls keep winning despite the e-commerce narrative, why lower-tier office stock is being forced into conversion or repositioning, and how innovation like automation and robotics is reshaping industrial demand. The episode also previews what Espace Montreal is building next: a bigger platform for market intelligence, bilingual coverage that travels beyond Quebec, and upcoming editorial themes including energy assessments that could impact transactions and unlock major retrofit opportunities. Topics & Timestamps 🎄 Christmas episode and why 2025 mattered (00:00) 📈 Espace momentum: 35 years, best year in publishing, and why podcasting changed the game (00:45) 🏢 Office market reset: strength returning at the top, bottom falling away, conversions and upgrades (02:25) 🛍️ Retail’s reality check: foot traffic, “winners vs losers,” and why people still shop in person (03:55) 🌟 Royalmount, mega luxury, and destination-making in Montreal retail (04:35) 🧩 South Shore and regional mall moves: changing hands, changing strategy (05:40) 📰 What’s coming in the magazine: Q4 highlights and Q1 focus on downtown office (06:45) ⚡ Energy assessments in transactions: what’s changing and the retrofit opportunity (08:05) 🧠 Building Espace as a full real estate media company: contributors, research, and new formats (10:00) 🌍 Why bilingual coverage matters: serving Montreal, Toronto, and New York audiences (12:15) 📍 Quebec City spotlight: Stephane Dion and the pulse of the market (13:45) 📬 Subscriptions and access: how to get a copy and get involved (15:10) 🖨️ Print vs digital: why the hard copy still wins in real estate offices (16:35) 🚀 2026 vision: becoming Quebec’s #1 real estate media platform, plus closing shout-outs (18:55) Andrew Cross’ LinkedIn: Follow Axel Monsaingeon: Visit for more resources, market guides, data, and advertising opportunities /episode/index/show/realestateeffect/id/39536395

Retail Is Back in Quebec: What’s Driving Near-Zero Vacancy and the Mixed-Use Shift 12/19/2025

Redeveloping Carrefour Laval Into a Mixed Use District (Parking, Transit, ESG, Returns) 12/12/2025

The Flight to Quality in Downtown Montreal’s Office Market with Lloyd Cooper 12/05/2025

The Flight to Quality in Downtown Montreal’s Office Market with Lloyd Cooper In this episode of the Espace Montreal Podcast, sits down with , Executive Vice Chair at , to unpack the new era of downtown Montreal’s office market. With 40 years in the business and over 4,000 transactions under his belt, Lloyd explains why 2025 is a record year for office leasing, why work-from-home and hybrid models are being pushed back, and how a powerful “flight to quality” is reshaping which buildings win or lose. They dig into how law firms and banks are using high-end buildouts and rich amenity packages to attract top talent, why there is a critical shortage of true Triple-A space, and where the best redevelopment and mixed-use opportunities are emerging downtown. Lloyd also shares his take on Montreal’s new administration, the importance of density and zoning flexibility, and how regulatory shifts, homelessness, and political uncertainty all play into investment decisions. If you want a clear, on-the-ground read of what’s really happening in Montreal’s office core—and where the next big towers should rise—this conversation is packed with insight. Topics & Timestamps ⏱️ 00:01:03 – Lloyd’s background & track record 📊 00:01:53 – 2025 deal volume & market activity 🏠 00:03:09 – Post-Covid office comeback & RTO 🧬 00:04:11 – Culture, mentoring & why WFH is slipping 🏢 00:05:27 – Flight to quality in office buildings 🧺 00:06:04 – Amenities as a magnet for talent 🏛️ 00:07:05 – Upgrading “old” Triple-A towers ⚖️ 00:09:29 – Law firms, big TI spend & slick offices 💸 00:14:09 – Triple-A rents, incentives & tenant leverage 📑 00:15:51 – Renewal strategy while waiting for new product 🏙️ 00:18:28 – New city administration & development tone 📐 00:21:16 – Zoning, density & mixed-use requirements 📍 00:26:00 – Key downtown development sites to watch 🧨 00:29:49 – Politics, uncertainty & “wait and see” 🎙️ 00:30:40 – Final takeaways on frustration & opportunity Lloyd’s LinkedIn: Web: If this conversation brought you value, share the episode with a colleague or friend in real estate who would benefit from Mike’s insights. It helps the show reach more people in the Montreal CRE community. Visit for more resources, market guides, data, and advertising opportunities /episode/index/show/realestateeffect/id/39287125

The Montreal Investment Playbook: Multi-Res & Land Opportunities with Colliers’ Joe Rullier 11/28/2025

The Montreal Investment Playbook: Multi-Res & Land Opportunities with Colliers’ Joe Rullier Over the last year, Montreal’s industrial market has gone from uncertainty to cautious Former pro hockey player turned top investment broker, Joe Rullier (Executive Vice President, Colliers), shares how he went from the NHL grind to building the #1 investment team in Canada and navigating one of the toughest markets Montreal has seen in years. In this episode, Joe breaks down how New York’s high-pressure investment world shaped his work ethic, why land deals have slowed, how he underwrites like a banker to make deals actually financeable, and where he sees real opportunity right now in Montreal’s multifamily and land markets. From CMHC delays to older stock repositioning, Joe explains the mindset, structure, and creativity investors need if they want to win in today’s environment instead of buying into “dream” pricing that never materializes. Topics & Timestamps ⏱ 00:01:03 – Welcome back to the Espace Montreal Podcast & intro to Joe Rullier 🏒 00:01:41 – From pro hockey career to New York commercial real estate 🏢 00:03:04 – Old-school New York training: 500 cold calls a week & outworking everyone 💼 00:06:54 – Moving back to Montreal, opening Cushman’s investment team & starting from zero 📉 00:09:25 – Why land transactions are down: rates, costs, CMHC and the “perfect storm” 🏗 00:10:56 – Apartment crisis vs. construction reality: why building is getting harder 📊 00:12:24 – Underwriting like a banker: structuring deals that lenders will actually finance 🎯 00:15:12 – Telling the truth on value vs. “selling the dream” and disappointing vendors 🔁 00:17:06 – Shifting asset classes: from land to multi-res and reading where the market is going 🏚 00:19:00 – The big opportunity in older multi-res (30–100 units) with upside & poor management 🔍 00:20:21 – Repositioning, optimization and dealing with private owners and messy paperwork 🏙 00:21:46 – Where Joe sees the next 3–5 years in Montreal: rentals, government support & density 📈 00:24:00 – Example of a 50-unit building reposition and why patience and team matter 👋 00:25:07 – Final thoughts, staying patient in Quebec’s sub-2% vacancy market & closing LinkedIn: Web: If this conversation brought you value, share the episode with a colleague or friend in real estate who would benefit from Mike’s insights. It helps the show reach more people in the Montreal CRE community. Visit for more resources, market guides, data, and advertising opportunities /episode/index/show/realestateeffect/id/39191955

How Rosefellow Is Navigating Montreal’s Industrial Slowdown and Scaling Into Multi-Res 11/21/2025

How Rosefellow Is Navigating Montreal’s Industrial Slowdown and Scaling Into Multi-Res Over the last year, Montreal’s industrial market has gone from uncertainty to cautious optimism. In this episode, Axel Monsaingeon sits down with Mike Jager, co-founder and co-president of Rosefellow, to break down how one of Quebec’s most active developers is navigating higher vacancies, tighter financing, and shifting tenant expectations—while quietly scaling into large-scale multi-residential projects. Mike explains why Class-A industrial still wins in soft markets, how Rosefellow stayed disciplined when everyone else was chasing deals, and what it really takes to raise and deploy multiple funds while keeping investors, banks, and tenants aligned. He also shares Rosefellow’s growing push into multi-residential in Quebec, Ontario, and the U.S., their data-driven approach to site selection, and why they’ve built a lean team that partners with “the best of the best” instead of trying to do everything in-house. The conversation wraps with Mike’s vision for giving back to the next generation, promoting women in construction, and staying grounded through market cycles. Topics & Timestamps 📌 01:10 – How the last 7 months reshaped Montreal’s industrial market 🏭 02:30 – Building on spec and designing for 80% of tenant demand 📉 03:45 – Early signs the cycle is turning: rates, tariffs & tenant confidence 🏗️ 07:15 – What modern tenants actually want (efficiency, clear heights, OpEx savings) 💸 08:00 – Tax incentives in Montreal & Laval—and how they reduce tenant costs ⭐ 09:50 – Why Class-A industrial still outperforms in softer markets 📊 10:35 – How Rosefellow structures its funds and targets 30% IRR conservatively 🏦 12:10 – Construction financing challenges and why banks still back their spec builds 🏙️ 15:25 – Returning to multi-res: land prices, construction costs & new opportunities 🌍 23:45 – Rosefellow’s next chapter: expansion across Canada, the U.S., and beyond Mike Jager on LinkedIn: Rosefellow web: If this conversation brought you value, share the episode with a colleague or friend in real estate who would benefit from Mike’s insights. It helps the show reach more people in the Montreal CRE community. Visit for more resources, market guides, data, and advertising opportunities /episode/index/show/realestateeffect/id/39119200

Montreal Isn’t Dying: Local Landlords, Downtown Pride & CRE Opportunities with Luciano D'Iorio 11/14/2025

Montreal Isn’t Dying: Local Landlords, Downtown Pride & CRE Opportunities with Luciano D'Iorio Is Montreal really “in decline”… or are we just stuck in a negative narrative? In this episode of The Espace Montreal Podcast, host Axel Monsaingeon talks with Luciano D'Iorio, Regional President of CDNGLOBAL Québec, about why he’s so relentlessly positive about Montreal’s future – and what he sees on the ground every day in commercial real estate. They dig into: The real stories behind downtown landmarks like Peel Street and the Sun Life Building How local landlord families went from one building to owning major downtown portfolios Why relationship-based ownership still matters more than AI, data and distant asset managers What makes it so hard to lose a good tenant—and so easy if you neglect them How small and medium businesses drive the downtown ecosystem Elections, policy, safety, homelessness and cleanliness as core CRE issues, not side topics The tension between heritage preservation and development (from churches to silos and conversions) If you’re in commercial real estate, urban planning, brokerage, investing or entrepreneurship and you care about downtown Montreal, this conversation will give you a nuanced, optimistic and practical perspective on where the city is headed – and how to create value in it. 📌 Timestamps 0:00 Montreal’s negativity problem & why Luciano started telling positive stories 3:45 Peel Street, the NHL, Sun Life Building legends & downtown fun facts 8:00 Local landlord families, long-term portfolios & relationship-based leasing 13:30 Tenants, employees and the “upmarket” office race 17:10 Elections, downtown priorities & building a business-friendly Montreal 21:40 Pride, cleanliness, safety and the “broken windows” effect 24:30 Heritage vs development: churches, silos and conversions 25:50 Why real estate is the most dynamic “static” asset class 29:00 Final thoughts: why you should still bet on Montreal Get in touch with Luciano D'Iorio on and . Visit for more resources, market guides, data, and advertising opportunities. /episode/index/show/realestateeffect/id/39027950

The Self-Storage Playbook: Drive-Thru Design, Smart Lease-Ups & Class-A Growth (w/ Robert Vineberg, Pandora) 11/07/2025

The Power Team Revolution: How Quebec Is Leading the Next Real Estate Wave 10/31/2025

The Surprising Strength of Retail: Why Developers Are Turning Back to Brick-and-Mortar 10/24/2025

How Next Arm Investments Is Redefining Montreal Real Estate with Office-to-Residential Conversions 10/17/2025

The State of Montreal’s Industrial Real Estate: Insights from Colliers EVP Jean-Marc Dube 10/10/2025

Brett Miller on AI, Okkto & the Future of Montréal Commercial Real Estate 10/03/2025

Local Commercial Real Estate News with Andrew Cross 09/26/2025

5 Years of Podcasting with Axel Monsaingeon 09/19/2025

5 Years of Podcasting with Axel Monsaingeon This episode marks a major milestone: five years and 265 episodes of meaningful conversations on real estate, entrepreneurship, and community. I take you behind the scenes of how the podcast began during the COVID-19 lockdowns, starting on Zoom and eventually evolving into in-person studio recordings that brought a new energy and depth to each discussion. I reflect on the lessons learned from hundreds of guests, the challenges of showing up every week without fail, and the feedback from listeners that has kept this journey alive. Along the way, I share how building consistency, embracing imposter syndrome, and focusing on authentic conversations helped shape the show into what it is today. I also announce an exciting new partnership that will carry the podcast into its next chapter, with a stronger focus on commercial real estate and the stories that matter most to investors and entrepreneurs. Tune in to discover what’s next and how this community will continue to grow together. — 📸 Follow Great Things Studio on Instagram: — SUPPORT US ON PATREON! patreon.com/realestateeffect and become a part of our real estate family! You’ll get access to exclusive content, monthly virtual meetings [Ask me anything!], special events, and more! And please subscribe to the show, share it with a friend and send us feedback. Visit www.realestateeffect.ca and follow me on IG @monsaxel — Connect with Axel Monsaingeon: Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/axel-monsaingeon-42577b28/ Website - https://www.realestateeffect.ca/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/realestateeffect/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/veryrealestateeffect/ Youtube - — Do you have any questions about your real estate journey? Whether you're curious about navigating the complexities of development projects, dealing with financial challenges, or anything in between, I’m here to delve into the topics that matter most to you. I invite you to submit your questions by visiting our website at and clicking on the 'Send Voicemail' widget on the right side. Your inquiries will help shape our upcoming episodes, ensuring we cover the real estate issues you're most interested in. /episode/index/show/realestateeffect/id/38277430

Buying Businesses as a Real Estate Investor with Bava Srinivasan 09/12/2025

Buying Businesses as a Real Estate Investor with Bava Srinivasan What if the skills you built in real estate could unlock success in any business? In this episode, I sit down again with Bava Srinivasan to explore his leap from property investing into entrepreneurship across multiple industries. From buying into a downtown Montreal restaurant franchise to acquiring a group home and launching a social media agency, Bava shares how each venture came from curiosity, persistence, and applying lessons he first learned as an investor. We dive into how real estate training—building teams, managing people, and optimizing systems—translates directly into running businesses. Bava also explains why decision-making speed matters, how failure becomes fuel for growth, and why providing value first is the best way to break into new industries. Tune in to learn how to spot opportunities beyond real estate, transfer your skills with confidence, and build businesses that create both impact and freedom. — Tired of spreadsheets and admin headaches in your rental business? If you're a real estate investor looking to simplify operations and grow your portfolio, Kompas is your new best friend. This all-in-one property management and accounting software helps you automate the tedious stuff—like receivables, renewals, and leasing—so you can focus on creating value. Boost your cash flow, improve your NOI, cut down back-office work, and scale with confidence. 👉 Visit to sign up and get your time back. — SUPPORT US ON PATREON! patreon.com/realestateeffect and become a part of our real estate family! You’ll get access to exclusive content, monthly virtual meetings [Ask me anything!], special events, and more! And please subscribe to the show, share it with a friend and send us feedback. Visit www.realestateeffect.ca and follow me on IG @monsaxel — Connect with Axel Monsaingeon: Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/axel-monsaingeon-42577b28/ Website - https://www.realestateeffect.ca/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/realestateeffect/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/veryrealestateeffect/ Youtube - — Do you have any questions about your real estate journey? Whether you're curious about navigating the complexities of development projects, dealing with financial challenges, or anything in between, I’m here to delve into the topics that matter most to you. I invite you to submit your questions by visiting our website at and clicking on the 'Send Voicemail' widget on the right side. Your inquiries will help shape our upcoming episodes, ensuring we cover the real estate issues you're most interested in. /episode/index/show/realestateeffect/id/38193750

From a Duplex to Developing 100 Acres with Bava Srinivasan 09/05/2025

From a Duplex to Developing 100 Acres with Bava Srinivasan What if your first rental property became the spark for a much bigger journey? In this episode, I sit down with Bava Srinivasan to hear how he went from buying his first single-family home in Brossard to building a diverse real estate portfolio across Quebec and the Maritimes. Bava shares how a mindset shift—from consumer to investor—helped him see opportunity differently, and how mentors, community, and creative financing shaped his growth. We dive into the importance of secondary and tertiary markets, how off-market deals can accelerate progress, and why surrounding yourself with the right team of brokers, property managers, and partners makes all the difference. Bava also opens up about personal development—why discomfort fuels growth, how failure builds resilience, and why every investor should take inventory of themselves along the way. Tune in to learn how patience, community, and the right mindset can turn a single rental into long-term financial freedom. — Tired of spreadsheets and admin headaches in your rental business? If you're a real estate investor looking to simplify operations and grow your portfolio, Kompas is your new best friend. This all-in-one property management and accounting software helps you automate the tedious stuff—like receivables, renewals, and leasing—so you can focus on creating value. Boost your cash flow, improve your NOI, cut down back-office work, and scale with confidence. 👉 Visit to sign up and get your time back. — SUPPORT US ON PATREON! patreon.com/realestateeffect and become a part of our real estate family! You’ll get access to exclusive content, monthly virtual meetings [Ask me anything!], special events, and more! And please subscribe to the show, share it with a friend and send us feedback. Visit www.realestateeffect.ca and follow me on IG @monsaxel — Connect with Axel Monsaingeon: Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/axel-monsaingeon-42577b28/ Website - https://www.realestateeffect.ca/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/realestateeffect/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/veryrealestateeffect/ Youtube - — Do you have any questions about your real estate journey? Whether you're curious about navigating the complexities of development projects, dealing with financial challenges, or anything in between, I’m here to delve into the topics that matter most to you. I invite you to submit your questions by visiting our website at and clicking on the 'Send Voicemail' widget on the right side. Your inquiries will help shape our upcoming episodes, ensuring we cover the real estate issues you're most interested in. /episode/index/show/realestateeffect/id/38100225

Having a Strong Property Management Platform with Cory Friedman from Kompas 08/29/2025

Having a Strong Property Management Platform with Cory Friedman from Kompas What if tenant problems weren’t solved with calls—but with clear expectations from day one? In this episode, I sit down again with Cory Friedman to explore the art of tenant management and how landlords can avoid most conflicts before they even start. Cory shares why detailed lease annexes and building rules are essential, how setting expectations upfront creates healthier relationships, and why responsiveness is the number one tool to de-escalate unreasonable requests. We dive into the systems behind managing over 2,000 units, from work orders to accounting, and how Kompas Property Management software was built to turn daily headaches into streamlined workflows. Cory also opens up about his entrepreneurial journey—what he’s learned from failure, why he built Kompas as an operator first, and how mindset makes the difference when scaling both a company and a portfolio. Tune in to learn why tenant management is really about trust, structure, and accountability—and how the right systems can help you grow with confidence. — Tired of spreadsheets and admin headaches in your rental business? If you're a real estate investor looking to simplify operations and grow your portfolio, Kompas is your new best friend. This all-in-one property management and accounting software helps you automate the tedious stuff—like receivables, renewals, and leasing—so you can focus on creating value. Boost your cash flow, improve your NOI, cut down back-office work, and scale with confidence. 👉 Visit www.kompaspm.com to sign up and get your time back. — SUPPORT US ON PATREON! patreon.com/realestateeffect and become a part of our real estate family! You’ll get access to exclusive content, monthly virtual meetings [Ask me anything!], special events, and more! And please subscribe to the show, share it with a friend and send us feedback. Visit www.realestateeffect.ca and follow me on IG @monsaxel — Connect with Axel Monsaingeon: Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/axel-monsaingeon-42577b28/ Website - https://www.realestateeffect.ca/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/realestateeffect/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/veryrealestateeffect/ Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCc8EYrmO1aVvVIgwT7AfNFw — Do you have any questions about your real estate journey? Whether you're curious about navigating the complexities of development projects, dealing with financial challenges, or anything in between, I’m here to delve into the topics that matter most to you. I invite you to submit your questions by visiting our website at https://www.realestateeffect.ca/ and clicking on the 'Send Voicemail' widget on the right side. Your inquiries will help shape our upcoming episodes, ensuring we cover the real estate issues you're most interested in. /episode/index/show/realestateeffect/id/38021945

OECD Report on Canada’s Housing Affordability and What to do About it with Axel Monsaingeon 08/22/2025

OECD Report on Canada’s Housing Affordability and What to do About it with Axel Monsaingeon What if the housing crisis wasn’t just about supply—but about outdated policies holding us back? In this episode, I unpack the latest OECD report on Canada and what it reveals about housing affordability. From skyrocketing rents and home prices to stagnant incomes, the report paints a sobering picture of why so many Canadians feel locked out of the market. But it also points to solutions we can act on right now. We dive into zoning barriers, labor shortages, and rising material costs that make development slower and more expensive. I break down why Canada’s share of social housing has fallen so sharply, how tax incentives can fuel speculation, and why reforming permitting and supporting construction innovation could be game changers. We also look at lessons from other countries and what coordinated action across all levels of government might look like. Tune in to hear the real story behind Canada’s housing affordability challenge—and what needs to change if we want to make homes accessible again. — Read the OECD report here: — Tired of spreadsheets and admin headaches in your rental business? If you're a real estate investor looking to simplify operations and grow your portfolio, Kompas is your new best friend. This all-in-one property management and accounting software helps you automate the tedious stuff—like receivables, renewals, and leasing—so you can focus on creating value. Boost your cash flow, improve your NOI, cut down back-office work, and scale with confidence. 👉 Visit to sign up and get your time back. — SUPPORT US ON PATREON! patreon.com/realestateeffect and become a part of our real estate family! You’ll get access to exclusive content, monthly virtual meetings [Ask me anything!], special events, and more! And please subscribe to the show, share it with a friend and send us feedback. Visit www.realestateeffect.ca and follow me on IG @monsaxel — Connect with Axel Monsaingeon: Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/axel-monsaingeon-42577b28/ Website - https://www.realestateeffect.ca/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/realestateeffect/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/veryrealestateeffect/ Youtube - — Do you have any questions about your real estate journey? Whether you're curious about navigating the complexities of development projects, dealing with financial challenges, or anything in between, I’m here to delve into the topics that matter most to you. I invite you to submit your questions by visiting our website at and clicking on the 'Send Voicemail' widget on the right side. Your inquiries will help shape our upcoming episodes, ensuring we cover the real estate issues you're most interested in. /episode/index/show/realestateeffect/id/37923360

Due Diligence Process with Axel Monsaingeon 08/15/2025

Due Diligence Process with Axel Monsaingeon What if the most expensive mistake in real estate wasn’t the deal you lost—but the one you closed too quickly? In this episode, I dive into the due diligence process and why it’s the single most important step before committing to any investment. We unpack the financial, legal, physical, and market checks that protect you from surprises, and how overlooking even one detail can turn a promising property into a liability. I break down the common mistakes investors make—like trusting listing rents, skipping environmental checks, or underestimating municipal requirements—and share how to approach due diligence as more than just paperwork. With the right team, the right questions, and a systematic approach, it becomes your best risk management tool. Tune in to learn how mastering due diligence can save you money, protect your deals, and give you the confidence to move forward with clarity. — Tired of spreadsheets and admin headaches in your rental business? If you're a real estate investor looking to simplify operations and grow your portfolio, Kompas is your new best friend. This all-in-one property management and accounting software helps you automate the tedious stuff—like receivables, renewals, and leasing—so you can focus on creating value. Boost your cash flow, improve your NOI, cut down back-office work, and scale with confidence. 👉 Visit to sign up and get your time back. — SUPPORT US ON PATREON! patreon.com/realestateeffect and become a part of our real estate family! You’ll get access to exclusive content, monthly virtual meetings [Ask me anything!], special events, and more! And please subscribe to the show, share it with a friend and send us feedback. Visit www.realestateeffect.ca and follow me on IG @monsaxel — Connect with Axel Monsaingeon: Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/axel-monsaingeon-42577b28/ Website - https://www.realestateeffect.ca/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/realestateeffect/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/veryrealestateeffect/ Youtube - — Do you have any questions about your real estate journey? Whether you're curious about navigating the complexities of development projects, dealing with financial challenges, or anything in between, I’m here to delve into the topics that matter most to you. I invite you to submit your questions by visiting our website at and clicking on the 'Send Voicemail' widget on the right side. Your inquiries will help shape our upcoming episodes, ensuring we cover the real estate issues you're most interested in. /episode/index/show/realestateeffect/id/37846530

Inside Brasswater’s Strategy for Real Estate Growth 08/08/2025

Inside Brasswater’s Strategy for Real Estate Growth What if scaling a real estate empire was less about taking big risks—and more about knowing when to adapt? In this episode, I take a closer look at Brasswater, the Montreal-based firm that has grown from a startup to managing over 12 million square feet of property in just 10 years. We explore their strategic shift from aggressive value-add acquisitions to a more cautious approach focused on stable, cash-flowing assets, and how they’re diversifying beyond Quebec into key Canadian and U.S. markets. I break down their disciplined build-to-suit development strategy, the advantage of having long-term investor partners, and why they’re targeting sectors like industrial and grocery-anchored retail. From geographic diversification to risk management, this is a deep dive into how one company is evolving to thrive in today’s changing market. Tune in to learn how adaptability, strategic partnerships, and smart acquisitions can fuel long-term real estate success. — Tired of spreadsheets and admin headaches in your rental business? If you're a real estate investor looking to simplify operations and grow your portfolio, Kompas is your new best friend. This all-in-one property management and accounting software helps you automate the tedious stuff—like receivables, renewals, and leasing—so you can focus on creating value. Boost your cash flow, improve your NOI, cut down back-office work, and scale with confidence. 👉 Visit to sign up and get your time back. — SUPPORT US ON PATREON! patreon.com/realestateeffect and become a part of our real estate family! You’ll get access to exclusive content, monthly virtual meetings [Ask me anything!], special events, and more! And please subscribe to the show, share it with a friend and send us feedback. Visit www.realestateeffect.ca and follow me on IG @monsaxel — Connect with Axel Monsaingeon: Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/axel-monsaingeon-42577b28/ Website - https://www.realestateeffect.ca/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/realestateeffect/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/veryrealestateeffect/ Youtube - — Do you have any questions about your real estate journey? Whether you're curious about navigating the complexities of development projects, dealing with financial challenges, or anything in between, I’m here to delve into the topics that matter most to you. I invite you to submit your questions by visiting our website at and clicking on the 'Send Voicemail' widget on the right side. Your inquiries will help shape our upcoming episodes, ensuring we cover the real estate issues you're most interested in. /episode/index/show/realestateeffect/id/37735335

Social Acceptability of Real Estate Projects with Axel Monsaingeon 08/01/2025

Social Acceptability of Real Estate Projects with Axel Monsaingeon What if renovating a duplex required a political campaign? In this episode, I share the behind-the-scenes story of one of our current projects in Verdun, Montreal—a simple plan to convert a rundown duplex with commercial space into five residential units and office space. But what should have been a straightforward redevelopment turned into a complex process involving CCU approval, neighborhood outreach, and the looming threat of a referendum. I talk about the unexpected pushback from anti-gentrification groups, how city funding can unintentionally stall development, and why small infill projects often face the same red tape as high-rise towers. From door-to-door pamphlet campaigns to confusing city messaging, I break down the frustrating realities of trying to build something positive in a highly regulated environment. Tune in to hear why persistence, planning, and community understanding are essential for today’s urban developers—and why we keep pushing forward despite the obstacles. — Tired of spreadsheets and admin headaches in your rental business? If you're a real estate investor looking to simplify operations and grow your portfolio, Kompas is your new best friend. This all-in-one property management and accounting software helps you automate the tedious stuff—like receivables, renewals, and leasing—so you can focus on creating value. Boost your cash flow, improve your NOI, cut down back-office work, and scale with confidence. 👉 Visit to sign up and get your time back. — SUPPORT US ON PATREON! patreon.com/realestateeffect and become a part of our real estate family! You’ll get access to exclusive content, monthly virtual meetings [Ask me anything!], special events, and more! And please subscribe to the show, share it with a friend and send us feedback. Visit www.realestateeffect.ca and follow me on IG @monsaxel — Connect with Axel Monsaingeon: Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/axel-monsaingeon-42577b28/ Website - https://www.realestateeffect.ca/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/realestateeffect/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/veryrealestateeffect/ Youtube - — Do you have any questions about your real estate journey? Whether you're curious about navigating the complexities of development projects, dealing with financial challenges, or anything in between, I’m here to delve into the topics that matter most to you. I invite you to submit your questions by visiting our website at and clicking on the 'Send Voicemail' widget on the right side. Your inquiries will help shape our upcoming episodes, ensuring we cover the real estate issues you're most interested in. /episode/index/show/realestateeffect/id/37636960

Montreal Housing Policies and Development with Jeffrey Kirton 07/25/2025

Montreal Housing Policies and Development with Jeffrey Kirton What if the path to solving housing challenges wasn’t just policy—but smarter development? In this episode, I sit down once again with urbanist and investor Jeffrey Kirton to break down the biggest projects reshaping Montreal’s real estate landscape. We dive into MAC’s $3.5 billion redevelopment at Jean-Talon, explore density-driven solutions like mixed-use buildings, and talk about how city planning, bylaws, and public opposition shape what actually gets built. Jeffrey unpacks how bylaw 20-20-20 reshaped development economics, what developers really face when navigating social and affordable housing mandates, and why large-scale projects are becoming the only viable option in high-regulation environments. We also discuss the unintended consequences of citizen referendums and the need for smaller lots, architectural guides, and housing diversity. Tune in to learn how policy, vision, and development pressures are colliding—and what it will take to create more inclusive, livable cities. — Tired of spreadsheets and admin headaches in your rental business? If you're a real estate investor looking to simplify operations and grow your portfolio, Kompas is your new best friend. This all-in-one property management and accounting software helps you automate the tedious stuff—like receivables, renewals, and leasing—so you can focus on creating value. Boost your cash flow, improve your NOI, cut down back-office work, and scale with confidence. 👉 Visit to sign up and get your time back. — SUPPORT US ON PATREON! patreon.com/realestateeffect and become a part of our real estate family! You’ll get access to exclusive content, monthly virtual meetings [Ask me anything!], special events, and more! And please subscribe to the show, share it with a friend and send us feedback. Visit www.realestateeffect.ca and follow me on IG @monsaxel — Connect with Axel Monsaingeon: Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/axel-monsaingeon-42577b28/ Website - https://www.realestateeffect.ca/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/realestateeffect/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/veryrealestateeffect/ Youtube - — Do you have any questions about your real estate journey? Whether you're curious about navigating the complexities of development projects, dealing with financial challenges, or anything in between, I’m here to delve into the topics that matter most to you. I invite you to submit your questions by visiting our website at and clicking on the 'Send Voicemail' widget on the right side. Your inquiries will help shape our upcoming episodes, ensuring we cover the real estate issues you're most interested in. /episode/index/show/realestateeffect/id/37548555

Espace Montréal Podcast

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