Podcast
The Ottawa Real Estate Podcast
Hosted by TOREP · EN
Welcome to The Ottawa Real Estate Podcast (TOREP)! Hosted by seasoned Mortgage Agents Paul Stevenson and David Warren, who have been bringing the Ottawa real estate market to life with the podcast for over four years. Whether you’re buying, selling, investing, or just curious, we’re here to share insider tips, untold stories, and plenty of laughs along the way.
To our loyal listeners—thank you for your support and for being part of our journey. And to our new listeners—welcome! We’re excited to have you join the conversation. Hit play, stay tuned, and let’s explore the world of real estate together! 🎉
35episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Why Canadians Can't Make Sense of These Headlines
1w ago00:31:56Tap to summarizeMortgage rates still are not moving, but the story behind them is changing fast. We discuss why the latest economic headlines are sending mixed signals and why even the biggest financial institutions are taking things one day at a time.In this week's episode, we discuss the latest Canadian jobs report, slowing manufacturing, the growing impact of artificial intelligence on the economy, and why bond markets continue to influence mortgage rates across Ontario. We also explore how uncertainty is affecting the Ottawa real estate market and why so many Canadians are struggling to make sense of conflicting headlines.00:00 World Cup Excitement02:26 Analyzing Job Market Trends05:59 Manufacturing Sector Challenges08:26 Manufacturers Relocating To The US10:16 AI and Tech Investments in Canada12:27 Oil Market Fluctuations and Economic Impact15:04 Current Real Estate Market Sentiment17:48 Navigating Uncertainty in Home Buying21:43 The Balance of Supply and Demand26:36 New Bylaws Affecting Landlords30:45 Mood BoostsGet in touch with us!Paul Stevenson - Mortgage Agent Level 2CENTUM Financial Services LPEmail: paul@paulstevenson.caPhone: 1-613-263-4543https://www.paulstevenson.caDavid Warren - Mortgage Agent Level 2Referral MortgagesEmail: david@referralmortgages.comPhone: 1-613-686-6003https://www.referralmortgages.comDerek SerraPresidentWestboro Mortgage Investment Corp.www.westboromic.comIf you have a question or topic you'd like to hear us discuss send us an email at: theottawarealestatepodcast@gmail.com or leave us a comment below!New Episodes of the podcast are available on Wednesdays at 10AM on all podcast services and at www.theottawarealestatepodcast.com Brought to you by Referral Mortgages, PaulStevenson.ca, Guertin/Poirier Avocates Lawyers, BIG - Billyard Insurance Group, and A to Z Cleaning Expert.
Transcribe →Here's Why This Government Rebate Has Builders Paying Attention
2w ago00:29:23Tap to summarizeA new government rebate could change the way many Canadians approach buying a home. In this week's episode of the Ottawa Real Estate Podcast, we break down the latest Government of Canada new home rebate, explain who may qualify, and discuss why this policy is already getting attention across the housing market.We also look at the latest Canadian real estate statistics, how builders are responding to changing demand, and why interest rates and bond yields continue to play such an important role in mortgage pricing. With expectations that fixed mortgage rates could ease in the coming months, we discuss what homeowners, first time buyers, and anyone following the Canadian housing market should be watching next.00:00 Intro and Soccer Buzz01:38 Current Real Estate Market Trends05:04 New Home HST Rebate Explained12:42 Impact of New Construction on the Market20:33 Market Statistics and Analysis24:07 Interest Rates and Economic Outlook28:12 Mood BoostsGet in touch with us!Paul Stevenson - Mortgage Agent Level 2CENTUM Financial Services LPEmail: paul@paulstevenson.caPhone: 1-613-263-4543https://www.paulstevenson.caDavid Warren - Mortgage Agent Level 2Referral MortgagesEmail: david@referralmortgages.comPhone: 1-613-686-6003https://www.referralmortgages.comDerek SerraPresidentWestboro Mortgage Investment Corp.www.westboromic.comIf you have a question or topic you'd like to hear us discuss send us an email at: theottawarealestatepodcast@gmail.com or leave us a comment below!New Episodes of the podcast are available on Wednesdays at 10AM on all podcast services and at www.theottawarealestatepodcast.com Brought to you by Referral Mortgages, PaulStevenson.ca, Guertin/Poirier Avocates Lawyers, BIG - Billyard Insurance Group, and A to Z Cleaning Expert.
Transcribe →Why Canadians Are Building Homes Instead of Buying Them
4w ago00:41:15Tap to summarizeThis week we sit down with Derek Serra, President of Westboro MIC, to discuss one of the biggest shifts happening in Canadian real estate right now.We explore why more Canadians are considering building their own homes, the hidden challenges of construction financing, and why private mortgages are becoming an increasingly important part of the housing market.We also discuss the condo slowdown, foreign buyer policies, construction costs, mortgage lending trends, and why many borrowers with excellent credit scores are turning to private lenders for short term financing solutions.Whether you're thinking about building a custom home, navigating today's housing market, or simply trying to understand where Canadian real estate is heading next, this conversation offers valuable insights into the realities facing homeowners, builders, and mortgage borrowers in 2026.00:00 Introduction to Private Lending and the Mortgage Market01:17 Special Guest Intro: Derek Serra04:04 Common Misconceptions About Private Lending07:12 When Private Mortgages Make Sense09:45 Bridge Loans15:00 Government Intervention in the Housing Market20:00 The Rise of Custom Home Building21:01 Impact of Government Policies on Real Estate22:41 Challenges in Construction Financing26:48 Client Preparedness for Building a Home34:11 The Future of Private Lending37:53 Navigating Economic Uncertainty39:07 Mood BoostsGet in touch with us!Paul Stevenson - Mortgage Agent Level 2CENTUM Financial Services LPEmail: paul@paulstevenson.caPhone: 1-613-263-4543https://www.paulstevenson.caDavid Warren - Mortgage Agent Level 2Referral MortgagesEmail: david@referralmortgages.comPhone: 1-613-686-6003https://www.referralmortgages.comDerek SerraPresidentWestboro Mortgage Investment Corp.www.westboromic.comIf you have a question or topic you'd like to hear us discuss send us an email at: theottawarealestatepodcast@gmail.com or leave us a comment below!New Episodes of the podcast are available on Wednesdays at 10AM on all podcast services and at www.theottawarealestatepodcast.com Brought to you by Referral Mortgages, PaulStevenson.ca, Guertin/Poirier Avocates Lawyers, BIG - Billyard Insurance Group, and A to Z Cleaning Expert.
Transcribe →The Housing Market Feels Stuck. Here's Why.
Jun 1800:30:21Tap to summarizeBuyers are waiting. Sellers are hesitating. And mortgage rates are reacting to events happening far beyond Canada's borders.In this week's episode, we break down what's really driving today's market, whether buying before selling makes sense right now, where mortgage rates could go next, and why uncertainty may be the biggest force shaping real estate decisions in 2026.00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates01:08 Insights from Whitehorse: Housing Market and Lifestyle05:30 Current Events Impacting Mortgage Rates14:20 Understanding Mortgage Brokers and Their Role21:36 Buying vs. Selling: Strategies in Today's Market27:53 Conclusion and Lighthearted Moments28:57 World Cup Mood BoostsGet in touch with us!Paul Stevenson - Mortgage Agent Level 2CENTUM Financial Services LPEmail: paul@paulstevenson.caPhone: 1-613-263-4543https://www.paulstevenson.caDavid Warren - Mortgage Agent Level 2Referral MortgagesEmail: david@referralmortgages.comPhone: 1-613-686-6003https://www.referralmortgages.comIf you have a question or topic you'd like to hear us discuss send us an email at: theottawarealestatepodcast@gmail.com or leave us a comment below!New Episodes of the podcast are available on Wednesdays at 10AM on all podcast services and at www.theottawarealestatepodcast.com Brought to you by Referral Mortgages, PaulStevenson.ca, Guertin/Poirier Avocates Lawyers, BIG - Billyard Insurance Group, and A to Z Cleaning Expert.
Transcribe →Self-Employed? You Can Still Buy a Home in Ontario!
Jun 1000:30:26Tap to summarizeIf your mortgage is renewing soon, the first offer you receive is rarely the final word. And if you are self-employed and have been told you do not qualify, there are programs most people never hear about that can change that conversation entirely.This week, we answer real questions from real Ottawa listeners, including fixed versus variable right now, what the renewal process actually looks like, and how self-employed buyers are getting approved without twenty percent down.00:00 Intro01:19 Current Market Trends and Observations03:17 Understanding Mortgage Renewals09:24 Fixed vs. Variable Rates: Making the Right Choice14:42 Should I Lock In My Rate Now?17:05 The Process of Renewing Your Mortgage22:10 Can I get A Mortgage If I'm Self-Employed in Canada29:12 Mood BoostsGet in touch with us!Paul Stevenson - Mortgage Agent Level 2CENTUM Financial Services LPEmail: paul@paulstevenson.caPhone: 1-613-263-4543https://www.paulstevenson.caDavid Warren - Mortgage Agent Level 2Referral MortgagesEmail: david@referralmortgages.comPhone: 1-613-686-6003https://www.referralmortgages.comIf you have a question or topic you'd like to hear us discuss send us an email at: theottawarealestatepodcast@gmail.com or leave us a comment below!New Episodes of the podcast are available on Wednesdays at 10AM on all podcast services and at www.theottawarealestatepodcast.com Brought to you by Referral Mortgages, PaulStevenson.ca, Guertin/Poirier Avocates Lawyers, BIG - Billyard Insurance Group, and A to Z Cleaning Expert.
Transcribe →Are Buyers Panic-Canceling Deals?
Jun 300:34:32Tap to summarizeSomething unusual is happening in the Canadian real estate market right now. This week we talk about buyers accepting offers and then walking away, what Canada's technical recession means for housing prices and mortgage rates going forward, and why rural properties are quietly becoming one of the most interesting opportunities in the market right now. We also make the case for why having the right professionals around you in this environment is more important than it has ever been.00:00 Intro01:28 Rural Property Trends and Buyer Behaviour04:46 Unique Challenges in Real Estate Transactions10:19 The Impact of Economic Conditions on Real Estate11:29 Choose an Experienced Realtor and Mortgage Broker17:11 Understanding the Technical Recession in Canada22:49 The Future of Canada's Economy and Real Estate28:27 Navigating Mortgage Rates and Market Trends33:07 Mood BoostsGet in touch with us!Paul Stevenson - Mortgage Agent Level 2CENTUM Financial Services LPEmail: paul@paulstevenson.caPhone: 1-613-263-4543https://www.paulstevenson.caDavid Warren - Mortgage Agent Level 2Referral MortgagesEmail: david@referralmortgages.comPhone: 1-613-686-6003https://www.referralmortgages.comIf you have a question or topic you'd like to hear us discuss send us an email at: theottawarealestatepodcast@gmail.com or leave us a comment below!New Episodes of the podcast are available on Wednesdays at 10AM on all podcast services and at www.theottawarealestatepodcast.com Brought to you by Referral Mortgages, PaulStevenson.ca, Guertin/Poirier Avocates Lawyers, BIG - Billyard Insurance Group, Easy Neon Signs and A to Z Cleaning Expert.
Transcribe →Is a Variable Rate Mortgage Your Best Move Now?
May 2700:28:13Tap to summarizeThe conversation around fixed versus variable rates just shifted and the buyers who catch this early are going to be in a very different position than the ones who do not.This week, we break down why variable rates are increasingly becoming the more cost effective option right now, what Ottawa's unique spring market dynamics mean for buyers and sellers this season, and why military relocations create a pattern in the Ottawa market that most people outside the region never think about.00:00 Introduction to the Spring Market01:40 Spring Market Update02:50 Military Relocations and Their Impact05:54 Understanding Days on Market and Pricing Strategies09:10 Shifts in Interest Rates: Fixed vs. Variable13:24 Renewal Conversations and Market Adjustments21:31 Unique Market Dynamics in Ottawa26:28 Positive Market Outlook and Personal Reflections27:01 Mood BoostsGet in touch with us!Paul Stevenson - Mortgage Agent Level 2CENTUM Financial Services LPEmail: paul@paulstevenson.caPhone: 1-613-263-4543https://www.paulstevenson.caDavid Warren - Mortgage Agent Level 2Referral MortgagesEmail: david@referralmortgages.comPhone: 1-613-686-6003https://www.referralmortgages.comIf you have a question or topic you'd like to hear us discuss send us an email at: theottawarealestatepodcast@gmail.com or leave us a comment below!New Episodes of the podcast are available on Wednesdays at 10AM on all podcast services and at www.theottawarealestatepodcast.com Brought to you by Referral Mortgages, PaulStevenson.ca, Guertin/Poirier Avocates Lawyers, CENTUM, BIG - Billyard Insurance Group, Easy Neon Signs and A to Z Cleaning Expert.https://www.easyneonsigns.ca Use code TOREP and get 20% off all your orders. (This is an affiliate link).
Transcribe →Interest Rates vs Oil Prices: Which One Matters More?
May 2000:29:24Tap to summarizeOttawa home prices and new listings are both up at the same time, and that combination is telling two very different stories depending on which side of the market you are on.In this episode, we break down the latest real estate numbers, what rising interest rates and global oil prices are doing to everyday affordability in Canada, and why the next five years in the housing market may look nothing like the last five. We also get into AI and tokenized investments and what those shifts could mean for how Canadians build wealth going forward.00:00 Intro and Weekend Recap01:41 April Real Estate Statistics04:56 Market Trends and Buyer Behaviour08:37 Future Predictions and Economic Shifts15:37 Interest Rates and Inflation Insights18:46 CPI Data and Its Implications27:55 Mood BoostsGet in touch with us!Paul Stevenson - Mortgage Agent Level 2CENTUM Financial Services LPEmail: paul@paulstevenson.caPhone: 1-613-263-4543https://www.paulstevenson.caDavid Warren - Mortgage Agent Level 2Referral MortgagesEmail: david@referralmortgages.comPhone: 1-613-686-6003https://www.referralmortgages.comIf you have a question or topic you'd like to hear us discuss send us an email at: theottawarealestatepodcast@gmail.com or leave us a comment below!New Episodes of the podcast are available on Wednesdays at 10AM on all podcast services and at www.theottawarealestatepodcast.com Brought to you by Referral Mortgages, PaulStevenson.ca, Guertin/Poirier Avocates Lawyers, CENTUM, BIG - Billyard Insurance Group, Easy Neon Signs and A to Z Cleaning Expert.https://www.easyneonsigns.ca Use code TOREP and get 20% off all your orders. (This is an affiliate link).
Transcribe →Your Mortgage Rate Just Got Hit by Global Conflicts
May 600:30:44Tap to summarizeThe Bank of Canada held rates but what Tiff Macklem said about sticky inflation should have every Canadian buyer and homeowner paying close attention. Global conflicts are pushing energy prices up, and that pressure is already working its way into mortgage rates and everyday costs across Canada.In this episode we discuss the rate decision, new government changes to mortgage insurance and the RRSP home buyers plan that most people have completely missed, and why no matter how good AI gets, it will never replace a real conversation when hundreds of thousands of dollars are on the line.00:00 Intro and Martini Madness Event02:27 Bank of Canada's Rate Announcement and Economic Outlook07:27 Government's Spring Economic Update and Housing Initiatives11:22 Home Buyers Plan and RRSP Withdrawals16:49 Current Market Sentiment and Real Estate Trends21:39 AI in Real Estate: Trust and Human Interaction29:16 Mood BoostsGet in touch with us!Paul Stevenson - Mortgage Agent Level 2CENTUM Financial Services LPEmail: paul@paulstevenson.caPhone: 1-613-263-4543https://www.paulstevenson.caDavid Warren - Mortgage Agent Level 2Referral MortgagesEmail: david@referralmortgages.comPhone: 1-613-686-6003https://www.referralmortgages.comIf you have a question or topic you'd like to hear us discuss send us an email at: theottawarealestatepodcast@gmail.com or leave us a comment below!Buy Martini Madness Tickets: https://martini-madness.caNew Episodes of the podcast are available on Wednesdays at 10AM on all podcast services and at www.theottawarealestatepodcast.com Brought to you by Referral Mortgages, PaulStevenson.ca, Guertin/Poirier Avocates Lawyers, CENTUM, BIG - Billyard Insurance Group, Easy Neon Signs and A to Z Cleaning Expert.https://www.easyneonsigns.ca Use code TOREP and get 20% off all your orders. (This is an affiliate link).
Transcribe →Canada Just Made a Massive Economic Move (Here's Why)
Apr 2900:30:27Tap to summarizeRe/Max is being acquired by Real Brokerage, Canada just announced its first ever sovereign wealth fund, and AI is quietly reshaping how real estate transactions happen. Three massive shifts landed in the same week and almost nobody is connecting the dots.In this episode we talk about what the Real Brokerage acquisition of Re/Max actually means for agents, buyers, and sellers in Canada. Real is a cloud-based tech-first brokerage and this deal is not just a business transaction, it is a signal about where the entire industry is heading.The sovereign wealth fund conversation is just as important. Canada is putting public money to work through a brand new national fund, and we break it down for Canadians who have never heard of a sovereign wealth fund and why it matters for the broader economic picture heading into the rest of 2026.00:00 Introduction and Economic Overview01:14 Martini Madness Charity Event03:09 Real Estate Industry Consolidation: REAL will acquire REMAX11:39 AI and Automation in Real Estate16:40 Canada's National Sovereign Wealth Fund29:05 Mood BoostsBuy Martini Madness Tickets: https://martini-madness.ca
Transcribe →