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Real Estate Business Review: Specials Magazine
As Canada’s largest Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT), Choice Properties stands apart not only in size but also in the strength of its strategy, the quality of its assets, its industry-leading balance sheet, and its commitment to building places where Canadians thrive. With over 700 properties across the country and a portfolio spanning necessity-based retail, industrial, and mixed-use and residential asset classes, the company believes its future is firmly anchored in the long term. At its core, Choice Properties is more than a landlord—it’s a steward of community, a partner in sustainability, and an innovator in placemaking. When we sat down with Rael Diamond, President and CEO, Erin Johnston, Chief Financial Officer, and Orit Sarfaty, Vice President of Sustainability and Placemaking, the conviction in their voices was evident. This is a company driven by purpose, not pressure. With a steady eye on the long game, Choice Properties doesn’t just navigate challenges—it rises above them. From delivering strong financial returns to leading on ESG, outperforming the industry isn’t the goal—it’s the standard. Diamond, who has been at the helm of Choice Properties since 2019 after serving as COO, brings extensive leadership experience from across the Canadian real estate sector, including senior roles at CREIT and several Brookfield subsidiaries. He combines financial acumen with strategic vision, guiding Choice Properties’ growth with a steady hand and deep industry insight. Johnston has worked across various businesses in the George Weston Group of Companies for the past 15 years, including Loblaw Companies Limited, bringing a wealth of expertise to multiple facets of the organization. She oversees the company’s financial strategy and capital management, and leads its finance, investor relations, accounting, and technology teams. Meanwhile, Sarfaty brings a unique lens to her role, blending strategic design with a deep focus on environmental and social impact. Leading the Pack Through Market Volatility The Canadian real estate market is navigating a complex landscape. While others in the sector may be grappling with high interest rates, inflation, and recession fears, Johnston shares that Choice Properties remains focused on growth—not repair.
Top Property Management Services in Canada 2025
Owning rental property can be one of the most rewarding ways to build long-term income. But intricacies like decoding rental regulations, navigating tenant laws, and handling late-night repair calls can be a challenge. For those without the time or expertise to manage these tasks, choosing the right property management partner can make all the difference. K-W Property Management Corp was created to meet those exact needs. Founded by Trish Montag, the company has grown from a modest listing in a local Penny Saver advertisement into one of Southwestern Ontario’s most reliable property management firms. This growth is the result of its consistent dedication to helping landlords succeed every day. “We’re not just here to manage buildings—we help protect our clients’ time, income, and peace of mind,” says Montag, founder and CEO. A Partner, Not Just a Property Manager K-WPM is built on the understanding that today’s landlords need more than a rent collector. The real estate market in Ontario has shifted rapidly, with surging vacancy rates, complex regulations, and changing rental dynamics demanding a more strategic approach. Landlords often turn to K-WPM when overwhelmed by challenges like legal disputes, tenant complaints, or complex maintenance issues. To meet these needs, the company offers full-scale support, including marketing, leasing, tenant screening, financial reporting, collections, and around-the-clock emergency response. This allows professionals and self-employed individuals to focus on leading a better life while K-WPM handles all other aspects of modern property ownership. K-WPM employs a growing team of 20 professionals who are deeply familiar with Ontario’s licensing, bylaw, and legal requirements—guiding clients through everything from zoning issues to tenant board filings. The company’s strong ability to navigate government regulations and streamline operations has made it a top choice, especially for those new to real estate.
Top Real Estate Development and Property Management Services canada 2025
What makes a brick-and-mortar house feel like home—is it access to transit, aesthetic ambiance, or the quiet comfort of knowing you truly belong? Oren Vered, president of BRiX, puts it simply, “Young professionals racing through loud, lonely cities need more than a run-of-the-mil renting experience. They want a haven that wraps them in comfort, offers them a welcoming community and makes everyday living a little less ordinary.” BRiX brings that vision to life in downtown Montreal. As the first building in the city intentionally designed around lifestyle, BRiX serves as an antidote to the anonymity of city living. More than just four walls and a lease, it offers a space where residents feel at home, supported and surrounded by a community. Located at the crossroads of convenience and culture, the building was designed to meet more than just its residents’ physical needs. The service at BRiX is thoughtful, responsive, and personal, transforming housing into hospitality. A full on-site team is available daily, whether through the app, by phone or face-to-face at the lounge-based office. Maintenance issues are often resolved the very same day and when life demands more, BRiX delivers. From apartment cleaning, pet care, and concierge support to information about every local event or attraction, it is all part of the tenant experience. From quick commutes to quiet coffee breaks, everything is just steps away. The building is surrounded by the essentials of modern urban living—cafés, bars, restaurants, grocery stores, culture, entertainment and retail. From spontaneous nights out to midday errands, BRiX keeps residents effortlessly connected to everything that matters.
CXO INSIGHTS
Why ROI on Devoting Time in Your Local Industry Organization Is Worth It: Learning, Leadership and Legacy
Leanne C. Reynolds, Director, Property Management, Colliers
From the Ground Up: A Journey in Property Management
Chad Johnson, Regional Vice President of Property Management, Kimco Realty Corporation [NYSE: KIM]
Navigating The Complexities of Property Management And Construction
Kimberley Cecile, Commercial Property Manager, Canderel Group
Unravelling the Opportunities in Construction Industry
Tony Cook, Project Director, PCL Construction
Unlocking the Untapped Potential: Why Industry 4.0's Promise Remains Elusive for Capital-Intensive Industries
Paul Craig, Senior Director Technology Strategy, Ledcor
IN FOCUS
Innovating Canadian REITs: The Impact of AI on Real Estate Investment
The integration of AI in Canadian Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) transforms the industry, enhancing decision-making, operational efficiency, tenant satisfaction, and competitiveness, while paving the way for future growth.
EDITORIAL
Renewing Canada’s Real Estate Landscape
Leading Canadian real estate investment trusts (REITs) stand out through their strategic commitment to long-term value creation, operational excellence, and strong Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) leadership. With diverse portfolios spanning retail, industrial, mixed-use, and residential properties, these REITs focus on building resilience and engaging communities by emphasizing sustainability, inclusivity, and innovative placemaking. This approach transforms properties into vibrant hubs that enrich both residents’ lives and broader neighborhoods.
Supported by disciplined capital management and strong balance sheets, top REITs effectively manage market volatility while maintaining consistent financial performance. Their dedication to social responsibility and environmental sustainability sets industry benchmarks, ensuring lasting value for tenants, investors, and the communities they serve alike.
This vision extends deeply into urban rental housing, where properties are being reimagined as more than just living spaces. They have become thriving communities designed to counter social isolation common in city life. Situated at the intersection of convenience and culture, these residences offer premium amenities, personalized hospitality, and curated social events that cultivate a true sense of belonging.
Features such as wellness centers, rotating art exhibits, and inclusive community activities actively encourage engagement, easing transitions for newcomers and fostering seamless, supportive living environments. In doing so, these innovative developments establish new standards for what it means to feel at home in the city.
Integral to this transformation is professional property management, which assumes complex responsibilities ranging from market compliance and tenant screening to maintenance and addressing legal challenges. This enables landlords to protect their investments with confidence. By efficiently managing properties, expert teams maximize returns through competitive pricing, low vacancy rates, and ongoing maintenance.
These management professionals expertly navigate regulatory changes, resolve disputes, and deliver timely financial reporting, reducing stress for property owners. Their personalized, responsive service and broad expertise foster lasting landlord-tenant relationships, enabling owners to focus on growth while ensuring properties perform optimally and tenants receive consistent support.
