Real Estate Investing Morning Show ( REI Investment in Canada )

Everybody says real estate is one of the best ways to build wealth. And that is true. But it is also true that most real estate does not make a good rental property investment. In this episode, Wayne and Gabby continue the conversation from yesterday's episode and answer a listener question about why Wayne says 99% of real estate in Canada does not actually work as a good investment. Wayne explains that real estate can absolutely create wealth, but not every house, condo, duplex, townhouse, or multifamily property makes sense as a rental business. A property can go up in value and still be a poor investment if it does not cash flow, requires constant support from your personal income, or puts you at risk of being forced to sell during the wrong market conditions. Wayne breaks down the difference between buying real estate as an asset and buying real estate as a business. If you buy a property all cash, you are mostly relying on appreciation. But real estate investing becomes powerful because of leverage. Investors can use financing, put 20% down, borrow the rest, rent the property out, and use tenant income to help cover the expenses, pay down the mortgage, and create cash flow. That is what separates real estate from many other investments. But it only works when the numbers work. Wayne walks through a simple example of a $500,000 property with a $400,000 mortgage, property taxes, insurance, and monthly expenses. He explains why many properties across Canada do not produce enough rent to cover those costs, and why investors who buy those properties may be forced to support them every single month out of pocket. That does not mean those investors can never make money. It means they are taking on more risk than they realize. If rents drop, interest rates rise, a tenant stops paying, a property sits vacant, a furnace fails, or life changes, the investor may be forced to sell at the worst possible time. That is how people lose money in real estate. Wayne and Gabby also explain why the right properties are the ones that produce cash flow from day one, pass the 5% Rule™, have strong long-term demand, and allow the investor to build reserves. They also discuss why garden suites in Edmonton may be creating a major new opportunity by turning properties that previously did not work into properties with significantly more income, equity, and value-add potential. This episode is a practical breakdown of how to think about real estate investing properly, why most properties should be ignored, and how to start finding the small percentage of properties that can actually help you build long-term wealth. What You'll Learn in This Episode Why Wayne says 99% of Canadian real estate does not make a good investment Why real estate can make people rich and still be risky when done wrong Why most properties do not work as rental businesses Why appreciation alone is not enough Why buying all-cash is different from leveraged real estate investing Why leverage is one of the biggest advantages in real estate Why rent needs to cover the mortgage, taxes, insurance, and expenses Why negative cash flow creates risk Why investors should not rely on personal income to support bad properties Why a property can go up in value and still be a poor investment Why investors lose money when they are forced to sell Why strong cash flow helps investors survive market changes Why interest rates, taxes, insurance, vacancies, repairs, and tenant issues must be planned for Why the 5% Rule™ helps identify stronger rental properties Why reserves are critical to long-term success Why most neighbourhoods and property types will not pass the numbers test Why Edmonton still has pockets of opportunity Why garden suites may turn certain properties into major value-add opportunities Why the best investors learn how to find the 1% of properties worth buying Upcoming Events Edmonton Garden Suites 101 June 12, 2026 Edmonton, Alberta www.reimasters.ca/edmontongardensuites101 REI Masters Edmonton Real Estate Investing Bus Tour August 22, 2026 www.reimasters.ca/edmontonbustour About Your Hosts Wayne & Gabby Hillier are full-time real estate investors and real estate investing coaches based in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Through the REI Masters Mentorship Program, they help Canadians build long-term wealth through rental properties, BRRRRs, joint ventures, seller financing, rent-to-own, garden suites, and other real estate investing strategies. The Canadian Real Estate Investing Morning Show releases new episodes every weekday morning featuring real stories, market analysis, coaching conversations, investor questions, market updates, and practical real estate investing advice. Resources & Contact Learn about the REI Masters Mentorship Program: www.reimasters.ca Bookkeeping and tax help for real estate investors: www.finngo.com/rei Get Wayne's book: The 5% Rule™ – A Real Estate Cash Flow Test for Canadian Investors https://a.co/d/jdZaBXM Submit a question: info@reimorningshow.com Thanks to Our Sponsors Calvin Realty – Edmonton Investor-Focused Realtor calvinrealty.ca Finngo Bookkeeping & Tax – Investor-Focused Accounting Firm www.finngo.com/rei Kirkwood & Brennan Mortgage Group – Investor-Focused Mortgage Brokers www.kbmortgages.ca keaton@kbmortgages.ca

This is one of the most important episodes Wayne and Gabby have ever recorded. In this episode, Wayne opens with a serious announcement about a rental property, a major loss, and a lesson that every real estate investor needs to hear. But the real lesson is much deeper than the headline. Wayne and Gabby explain how real estate investors lose money, why so many people disappear from the industry after three to five years, and why most failures come from ignoring the fundamentals. This episode is about what actually protects a rental property portfolio: cash flow, reserves, market selection, buying right, sustainable financing, proper systems, and knowing how to survive when the market shifts. Wayne explains why real estate investing is not about looking flashy, collecting doors, chasing gimmicks, or impressing people online. It is about buying the right properties, in the right markets, with strong cash flow and systems that allow the business to survive interest rate spikes, falling rents, rising expenses, bad tenants, insurance increases, property tax changes, and unexpected storms. Wayne and Gabby also discuss the 5% Rule™, why cash flow is the life raft of a rental property business, and why investors should never rely on hope, appreciation, or inflated rents to make a deal work. If you are buying rental properties, thinking about investing, or wondering how to avoid becoming one of the investors who gets wiped out, this episode is worth listening to all the way through. What You'll Learn in This Episode How real estate investors lose money Why most investors fail after three to five years Why cash flow is the life raft of a rental property business Why the 5% Rule™ helps investors avoid dangerous deals Why a property can drop in value without creating a real loss Why you only lock in a loss when you are forced to sell Why strong cash flow helps investors avoid being forced to sell Why interest rate spikes can destroy weak portfolios Why falling rents can expose bad investments Why property taxes and insurance costs need to be planned for Why investors need reserve funds and backup plans Why flashy strategies often come with more risk than people admit Why BRRRRs, flips, multifamily, short-term rentals, developments, and rent-to-own require proper systems Why most residential real estate does not work as a rental property Why investors need to find the small percentage of properties that actually make sense Why buying right matters from day one Why boring rental properties can produce exceptional returns Why systems, fundamentals, market selection, and cash flow matter more than hype Upcoming Events Edmonton Garden Suites 101 June 12, 2026 Edmonton, Alberta www.reimasters.ca/edmontongardensuites101 REI Masters Edmonton Real Estate Investing Bus Tour August 22, 2026 www.reimasters.ca/edmontonbustour About Your Hosts Wayne & Gabby Hillier are full-time real estate investors and real estate investing coaches based in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Through the REI Masters Mentorship Program, they help Canadians build long-term wealth through rental properties, BRRRRs, joint ventures, seller financing, rent-to-own, garden suites, and other real estate investing strategies. The Canadian Real Estate Investing Morning Show releases new episodes every weekday morning featuring real stories, market analysis, coaching conversations, and practical real estate investing advice. Resources & Contact Learn about the REI Masters Mentorship Program: www.reimasters.ca Bookkeeping and tax help for real estate investors: www.finngo.com/rei Get Wayne's book: The 5% Rule™ – A Real Estate Cash Flow Test for Canadian Investors https://a.co/d/jdZaBXM Submit a question: info@reimorningshow.com Thanks to Our Sponsors Calvin Realty – Edmonton Investor-Focused Realtor calvinrealty.ca Finngo Bookkeeping & Tax – Investor-Focused Accounting Firm www.finngo.com/rei Kirkwood & Brennan Mortgage Group – Investor-Focused Mortgage Brokers www.kbmortgages.ca keaton@kbmortgages.ca

The Edmonton real estate market is shifting, and smart investors need to pay attention. In this episode, Wayne and Gabby start by answering a listener question about how they handle late rent in their rental property business. They explain their on-time rental discount system, why they use it instead of relying only on late rent fees, how it helps tenants take rent payment seriously, and why it can be a strong tool for landlords who want to reduce late payments and protect their systems. Wayne and Gabby also discuss why lease clauses need to balance protection with simplicity, especially in a market where vacancy is rising and landlords need to make the tenant onboarding process as smooth as possible. Later in the episode, investor-focused Edmonton Realtor Calvin Hexter joins the show for a real estate market update. Calvin breaks down what he is seeing in Edmonton right now, including longer days on market, sellers who are not getting the prices they expected, buyers gaining more leverage, and why some properties are still receiving multiple offers while others are sitting. Wayne and Calvin also discuss why seller financing may become more attractive in this market, why investors need to stay conservative with their numbers, and why the right power team can help investors identify opportunities before everyone else sees them. They also talk about Edmonton garden suites, the importance of knowing your buy box, and why investors who understand the market can make money in any market cycle. If you are a landlord, rental property investor, or someone watching the Edmonton real estate market closely, this episode will help you understand what is happening right now and how to adjust your strategy. What You'll Learn in This Episode How Wayne and Gabby use an on-time rental discount system Why late rent fees may not always be the strongest landlord tool Why the on-time rental discount helps encourage tenants to pay on time Why lease clauses need to be enforceable and easy to understand Why landlords need to balance protection with tenant onboarding Why Edmonton garden suites are a major opportunity right now Why knowing your buy box makes investing decisions easier What Calvin Hexter is seeing in the Edmonton real estate market Why some Edmonton properties are sitting longer than expected Why sellers may need to adjust expectations in the current market Why buyers may be gaining more leverage Why investor-grade properties can still attract multiple offers Why seller financing may become more useful in this market Why investors should stay conservative with their numbers Why fix-and-flip investors need to understand timing and market direction Why rental assumptions need to be conservative right now Why a strong Realtor, mortgage broker, lawyer, accountant, and coach matter Why investors can still find opportunity in changing markets Upcoming Events Edmonton Garden Suites 101 June 12, 2026 Edmonton, Alberta www.reimasters.ca/edmontongardensuites101 REI Masters Edmonton Real Estate Investing Bus Tour August 22, 2026 www.reimasters.ca/edmontonbustour About Your Hosts Wayne & Gabby Hillier are full-time real estate investors and real estate investing coaches based in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Through their REI Masters Mentorship Program, they help Canadians build long-term wealth using rental properties, BRRRRs, flips, joint ventures, wholesaling, seller financing, rent-to-own, garden suites, and creative financing. The Canadian Real Estate Investing Morning Show is a daily podcast focused on helping Canadian investors build cash flow, scale their portfolios, and invest with confidence. Resources & Contact Learn about the REI Masters Mentorship Program: www.reimasters.ca Bookkeeping & tax help for real estate investors: www.finngo.com/rei Get Wayne's book: The 5% Rule™ – A Real Estate Cash Flow Test for Canadian Investors https://a.co/d/jdZaBXM Submit a question or connect with us: info@reimorningshow.com Thanks to Our Sponsors Calvin Realty – Edmonton Investor-Focused Realtor calvinrealty.ca Finngo Bookkeeping & Tax – For Investors, By Investors www.finngo.com/rei Kirkwood & Brennan Mortgage Group keaton@kbmortgages.ca

If you are just getting started in real estate investing, your first move matters. In this episode, Wayne and Gabby answer a listener question from a 28-year-old new investor in Edmonton who recently moved to Canada, works in IT, earns about $80,000 per year, has saved $40,000, and wants to start building long-term wealth through real estate. Wayne breaks down what he would do in this situation and explains why many new investors make mistakes by trying to figure everything out on their own before getting proper education. He also explains why your first property should be chosen based on future rental potential, not just personal preference. Wayne discusses the strategy of buying a property as a primary residence with 5% down, living in it, improving it, and eventually turning it into a rental property. He also explains why this strategy can help new investors stretch limited capital further, why Edmonton townhouses may be one of the best starting points right now, and why investors need to understand cash flow, risk, mortgage paydown, and long-term appreciation before they buy. Wayne and Gabby also talk about the 5% Rule™, why cash flow protects investors during storms like interest rate increases, why cash flow should be saved instead of spent, and why reserves matter. Later in the episode, Wayne explains why raising capital and joint ventures eventually become unavoidable for investors who want to scale beyond their own savings and mortgage capacity. If you are a new investor wondering how to buy your first rental property, this episode will help you think through your first move with more clarity, strategy, and confidence. What You'll Learn in This Episode Why new investors should ask better questions before buying Why your first property can shape your future portfolio Why education matters before making your first move Why many investors regret buying the wrong first property Why Wayne recommends buying with the future tenant in mind Why your first home can become your first rental property How 5% down can help new investors get started Why Edmonton townhouses may be a strong starting point Why buying one property with 20% down is not always the best use of capital How mortgage paydown builds equity over time Why appreciation across multiple properties can accelerate wealth building Why cash flow matters as a risk mitigator Why Wayne does not recommend spending your cash flow too early Why the 5% Rule™ helps investors prepare for storms Why interest rate increases do not have to destroy your portfolio Why scaling eventually requires access to other people's capital Why joint ventures are inevitable for serious investors Why building trust, credibility, and education matters before raising capital Why opportunities do not last forever Upcoming Events Edmonton Garden Suites 101 June 12, 2026 Edmonton, Alberta www.reimasters.ca/edmontongardensuites101 REI Masters Edmonton Real Estate Investing Bus Tour August 22, 2026 www.reimasters.ca/edmontonbustour About Your Hosts Wayne & Gabby Hillier are full-time real estate investors and real estate investing coaches based in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Through their REI Masters Mentorship Program, they help Canadians build long-term wealth using rental properties, BRRRRs, flips, joint ventures, wholesaling, seller financing, rent-to-own, garden suites, and creative financing. The Canadian Real Estate Investing Morning Show is a daily podcast focused on helping Canadian investors build cash flow, scale their portfolios, and invest with confidence. Resources & Contact Learn about the REI Masters Mentorship Program: www.reimasters.ca Bookkeeping & tax help for real estate investors: www.finngo.com/rei Get Wayne's book: The 5% Rule™ – A Real Estate Cash Flow Test for Canadian Investors https://a.co/d/jdZaBXM Submit a question or connect with us: info@reimorningshow.com Thanks to Our Sponsors Calvin Realty – Edmonton Investor-Focused Realtor calvinrealty.ca Finngo Bookkeeping & Tax – For Investors, By Investors www.finngo.com/rei Kirkwood & Brennan Mortgage Group keaton@kbmortgages.ca  

Condo townhouses can be one of the best real estate investing opportunities in Edmonton, but only if you know how to do your due diligence properly. In this episode, Wayne and Gabby answer a listener question from a new investor who is buying a condo townhouse in Edmonton and wants to understand how much weight should be placed on the condo document review, reserve fund study, condo fees, special assessments, and overall strength of the condo corporation. Wayne explains why condo document reviews are one of the most important parts of buying a condo townhouse as an investment property. A townhouse can have great numbers, strong rent potential, and appreciation upside, but a poorly managed condo corporation or weak reserve fund can ruin the deal. Wayne and Gabby also discuss why investors should review condo documents carefully, why hiring a professional condo document review company matters, what to look for in reserve fund studies, and why a special assessment does not always mean the condo corporation is bad. They also share a recent example from one of their own Edmonton townhouse purchases where the reserve fund study history raised questions and required further investigation. Later in the episode, Wayne and Gabby answer another listener question about basement suite layout: is it better to build two small bedrooms or one larger bedroom with more living space? They explain why tenant profile matters, why more bedrooms do not always mean better tenants or better long-term results, and why they often prefer a spacious one-bedroom basement suite for a single person or couple. If you are buying a condo townhouse, reviewing condo documents, investing in Edmonton real estate, or planning a basement suite, this episode will help you think through the decision like a real investor. What You'll Learn in This Episode Why condo document reviews are critical before buying a condo townhouse Why a good rental property can still be ruined by a bad condo corporation Why Wayne puts major weight on the reserve fund and condo corporation Why condo townhouses can be one of the best opportunities in Edmonton right now Why more condo corporations are poorly managed than most investors realize Why investors need to review bylaws, meeting minutes, financials, and reserve fund studies Why a reserve fund study should be updated every five years in Alberta Why a missing or outdated reserve fund study can be a warning sign Why a special assessment does not always mean the condo corporation is bad Why condo fee increases can sometimes be responsible long-term planning Why investors should hire a condo document review company Why Wayne teaches students how to understand condo documents instead of blindly relying on others Why basement suite layout should be based on tenant profile Why two bedrooms are not always better than one bedroom Why Wayne and Gabby prefer basement suites for singles or couples Why natural light and spacious layouts matter in basement suites Why more people in a suite can create more management issues Why strong systems make real estate investing easier Upcoming Events Edmonton Garden Suites 101 June 12, 2026 Edmonton, Alberta www.reimasters.ca/edmontongardensuites101 REI Masters Edmonton Real Estate Investing Bus Tour August 22, 2026 www.reimasters.ca/edmontonbustour About Your Hosts Wayne & Gabby Hillier are full-time real estate investors and real estate investing coaches based in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Through their REI Masters Mentorship Program, they help Canadians build long-term wealth using rental properties, BRRRRs, flips, joint ventures, wholesaling, seller financing, rent-to-own, garden suites, and creative financing. The Canadian Real Estate Investing Morning Show is a daily podcast focused on helping Canadian investors build cash flow, scale their portfolios, and invest with confidence. Resources & Contact Learn about the REI Masters Mentorship Program: www.reimasters.ca Bookkeeping & tax help for real estate investors: www.finngo.com/rei Get Wayne's book: The 5% Rule™ – A Real Estate Cash Flow Test for Canadian Investors https://a.co/d/jdZaBXM Submit a question or connect with us: info@reimorningshow.com Thanks to Our Sponsors Calvin Realty – Edmonton Investor-Focused Realtor calvinrealty.ca Finngo Bookkeeping & Tax – For Investors, By Investors www.finngo.com/rei Kirkwood & Brennan Mortgage Group keaton@kbmortgages.ca

What do you do when a tenant says they are not paying their final month's rent because you can just use their security deposit? In this episode, Wayne and Gabby walk through a real situation from their rental portfolio where a tenant refused to pay May rent, stopped responding to communication, claimed they knew their rights, and suggested the damage deposit could be used instead. Wayne and Gabby explain exactly how they handled it from April 15th through June 1st, including how they communicated with the tenant, why they filed with RTDRS early, how they planned for multiple outcomes, and what happened when they finally got access to the property. They also discuss why possession matters so much, why landlords need to understand the difference between security deposits and rent, why documentation is critical, and why the right systems can turn a stressful tenant situation into a manageable business problem. This episode is not about fearmongering. It is about showing landlords how to stay calm, follow the process, reduce risk, document properly, and protect their rental property business. Wayne and Gabby also talk about the heavy rainfall in Edmonton, water issues at rental properties, June 1st rent collection, vacancies, inspections, garden suites, and the reality of managing a large rental portfolio. If you are a landlord, self-managing investor, or someone who is nervous about tenant problems, this episode will help you understand how experienced landlords think through situations like this. What You'll Learn in This Episode What happened when Wayne and Gabby's tenant refused to pay final month's rent Why tenants cannot simply use the security deposit as last month's rent Why Wayne and Gabby gave notice that the lease would not be renewed Why the tenant going silent changed the strategy Why filing with RTDRS early helped reduce risk Why landlords should plan for multiple possible outcomes Why possession is one of the most important parts of landlording What happened when their agent went to the property on move-out day Why abandoned possession was one of the better outcomes Why cleaning, junk removal, and damages need to be documented Why security deposits should be handled properly Why landlords need written communication and strong records How Wayne and Gabby decide whether it is worth pursuing money owed Why tenant problems are manageable when you have systems Why proper screening reduces the chance of major tenant issues Why rental property reserves matter during vacancies and turnover Why self-managing rental properties remotely is possible with the right team Why real estate investing problems should be treated like business problems Upcoming Events Edmonton Garden Suites 101 June 12, 2026 Edmonton, Alberta www.reimasters.ca/edmontongardensuites101 REI Masters Edmonton Real Estate Investing Bus Tour August 22, 2026 www.reimasters.ca/edmontonbustour About Your Hosts Wayne & Gabby Hillier are full-time real estate investors and real estate investing coaches based in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Through their REI Masters Mentorship Program, they help Canadians build long-term wealth using rental properties, BRRRRs, flips, joint ventures, wholesaling, seller financing, rent-to-own, garden suites, and creative financing. The Canadian Real Estate Investing Morning Show is a daily podcast focused on helping Canadian investors build cash flow, scale their portfolios, and invest with confidence. Resources & Contact Learn about the REI Masters Mentorship Program: www.reimasters.ca Bookkeeping & tax help for real estate investors: www.finngo.com/rei Get Wayne's book: The 5% Rule™ – A Real Estate Cash Flow Test for Canadian Investors https://a.co/d/jdZaBXM Submit a question or connect with us: info@reimorningshow.com Thanks to Our Sponsors Calvin Realty – Edmonton Investor-Focused Realtor calvinrealty.ca Finngo Bookkeeping & Tax – For Investors, By Investors www.finngo.com/rei Kirkwood & Brennan Mortgage Group keaton@kbmortgages.ca

Where are Wayne's favourite Edmonton neighbourhoods to invest in? In this episode, Wayne and Gabby break down some of the Edmonton neighbourhoods Wayne likes for rental property investing, and why they make sense from an investor's perspective. This is not about buying the fanciest house in the prettiest neighbourhood. It is about understanding tenant profile, affordability, accessibility, property type, cash flow potential, long-term demand, and whether the area fits the kind of rental property business you are trying to build. Wayne shares why he likes areas like Ormsby Place, Jasper Park, Kensington, Ellerslie, Summerside, and Lakewood, while also explaining the strengths and weaknesses of each one. He also talks about why working-class neighbourhoods can be powerful for investors, why accessibility matters, why some areas attract longer-term tenants, and why investors need to separate what they personally like from what tenants actually want. Wayne and Gabby also discuss infill development, suited houses, townhouses, single-family rentals, tenant desirability, and why some Edmonton neighbourhoods may change dramatically over the next 10 to 30 years. If you are thinking about investing in Edmonton real estate, this episode will help you better understand how Wayne looks at neighbourhoods, tenant profile, property types, and long-term rental demand. What You'll Learn in This Episode Why Wayne still sees strong opportunity in Edmonton real estate Why neighbourhood selection matters for rental property investors Why investors should think about tenant profile first Why accessibility can make a rental property more desirable Why working-class neighbourhoods can be strong rental areas Why Wayne likes Ormsby Place for accessibility and tenant demand Why Jasper Park has changed so much because of infill development Why some older Edmonton neighbourhoods may become more renter-focused over time Why Kensington can be a strong area for suited houses and family rentals Why Ellerslie and Summerside attract long-term family tenants Why Lakewood in Mill Woods has historically worked well for Wayne Why rental properties do not need to be flashy to be profitable Why investors should separate personal preference from business decisions Why tenant retention matters for long-term profitability Why townhouses, suited houses, and single-family rentals can each serve different tenant profiles Why Edmonton investors need to understand how neighbourhoods are changing Why cash flow and tenant demand matter more than buying something "sexy" Upcoming Events Edmonton Garden Suites 101 June 12, 2026 Edmonton, Alberta www.reimasters.ca/edmontongardensuites101 REI Masters Edmonton Real Estate Investing Bus Tour August 22, 2026 www.reimasters.ca/edmontonbustour About Your Hosts Wayne & Gabby Hillier are full-time real estate investors and real estate investing coaches based in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Through their REI Masters Mentorship Program, they help Canadians build long-term wealth using rental properties, BRRRRs, flips, joint ventures, wholesaling, seller financing, rent-to-own, garden suites, and creative financing. The Canadian Real Estate Investing Morning Show is a daily podcast focused on helping Canadian investors build cash flow, scale their portfolios, and invest with confidence. Resources & Contact Learn about the REI Masters Mentorship Program: www.reimasters.ca Bookkeeping & tax help for real estate investors: www.finngo.com/rei Get Wayne's book: The 5% Rule™ – A Real Estate Cash Flow Test for Canadian Investors https://a.co/d/jdZaBXM Submit a question or connect with us: info@reimorningshow.com Thanks to Our Sponsors Calvin Realty – Edmonton Investor-Focused Realtor calvinrealty.ca Finngo Bookkeeping & Tax – For Investors, By Investors www.finngo.com/rei Kirkwood & Brennan Mortgage Group keaton@kbmortgages.ca

Real estate investing can change your life, but only if you do it the right way. In this episode, Wayne and Gabby have one of their most honest conversations yet about real estate investing, authenticity, bad advice, fake confidence, and why so many new investors get pulled into strategies they do not fully understand. Wayne talks openly about the lack of authenticity in the real estate investing world, why people are often attracted to flashy promises, and why safe, reliable investing rarely looks exciting from the outside. He also explains why investors need to stop blindly following people online, do their own research, and learn how to tell the difference between a real investor and someone selling a dangerous shortcut. The episode then shifts into a real listener question from someone who owns a paid-off home worth approximately $900,000, is planning to move provinces, and is considering using a HELOC to turn that home into a rental while buying a triplex. Wayne and Gabby break down the situation honestly, including why a former personal residence does not automatically make a good rental property, why cash flow matters, why expensive homes often perform poorly as rentals, and why selling the property may create a much stronger investing opportunity. This episode is part speech, part coaching session, and part real-world deal analysis. It is a reminder that real estate investing does not need to be flashy to work. It needs to be safe, simple, profitable, and built on real numbers. If you are a new investor, thinking about using home equity, trying to decide whether to keep a former home as a rental, or feeling overwhelmed by conflicting real estate advice online, this is an episode you should listen to carefully. What You'll Learn in This Episode Why authenticity matters in real estate investing Why Wayne believes too many investors follow flashy but dangerous advice Why new investors need to do their own research before trusting anyone Why safe and reliable investing is often boring, but powerful Why raising capital works better when you are real and honest Why many real estate investing "cycles" are caused by people doing risky things Why Wayne believes investors need to stay in their own lane Why a paid-off personal home does not automatically make a good rental How to think through using a HELOC to buy more real estate Why expensive homes often struggle to cash flow as rentals Why repairs, maintenance, taxes, insurance, and financing costs matter Why cash flow protects you from risk Why selling a personal residence can sometimes create better investing options How one large amount of trapped equity could be redeployed into better rental properties Why Edmonton townhouses and garden suites may create stronger returns than keeping a low-cash-flow house Why Wayne recommends making decisions based on math, not emotion Why real estate investing is simple when you follow the fundamentals Upcoming Events Edmonton Garden Suites 101 June 12, 2026 Edmonton, Alberta www.reimasters.ca/edmontongardensuites101 REI Masters Edmonton Real Estate Investing Bus Tour August 22, 2026 www.reimasters.ca/edmontonbustour About Your Hosts Wayne & Gabby Hillier are full-time real estate investors and real estate investing coaches based in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Through their REI Masters Mentorship Program, they help Canadians build long-term wealth using rental properties, BRRRRs, flips, joint ventures, wholesaling, seller financing, rent-to-own, garden suites, and creative financing. The Canadian Real Estate Investing Morning Show is a daily podcast focused on helping Canadian investors build cash flow, scale their portfolios, and invest with confidence. Resources & Contact Learn about the REI Masters Mentorship Program: www.reimasters.ca Bookkeeping & tax help for real estate investors: www.finngo.com/rei Get Wayne's book: The 5% Rule™ – A Real Estate Cash Flow Test for Canadian Investors https://a.co/d/jdZaBXM Submit a question or connect with us: info@reimorningshow.com Thanks to Our Sponsors Calvin Realty – Edmonton Investor-Focused Realtor calvinrealty.ca Finngo Bookkeeping & Tax – For Investors, By Investors www.finngo.com/rei Kirkwood & Brennan Mortgage Group keaton@kbmortgages.ca

Interest rates are changing, but not always in the way the headlines make it seem. In this episode, Wayne and Gabby are joined by investor-focused mortgage broker Keaton Kirkwood to talk about what is actually happening with mortgage rates, fixed rates, renewals, and financing for real estate investors. Keaton explains why fixed rates are connected to bond yields, why the media often focuses too much on Bank of Canada announcements, and why investors with upcoming renewals should be paying close attention to recent pricing changes. They also discuss why mortgage planning is getting more complex, especially for investors, self-employed borrowers, and people building larger portfolios. Wayne, Gabby, and Keaton also talk about the importance of having the right power team, including your mortgage broker, realtor, accountant, and lawyer. When things go wrong in a deal, the right team can make the difference between a deal falling apart and a deal getting done. This episode also covers property inspections, negotiation, turnkey rentals, cash flow, amortization strategy, renewal planning, and why real estate investors need to model out different interest rate scenarios instead of hoping everything stays the same. If you are buying rental properties, renewing mortgages, or trying to build a portfolio in Canada, this episode will help you think more clearly about interest rates, financing, and long-term planning. What You'll Learn in This Episode What is happening with interest rates right now Why fixed mortgage rates are connected to bond yields Why Bank of Canada announcements do not directly control fixed rates Why investors with renewals should ask for updated pricing Why mortgage planning is getting more complex for real estate investors Why self-employed borrowers and larger portfolios need better planning Why the right mortgage strategy can protect future buying power Why power team relationships matter when problems come up How a mortgage broker, realtor, accountant, and lawyer can work together Why inspections are not just about walking away from a deal How inspections can create negotiation opportunities Why turnkey properties can be powerful for scaling Why copy-paste systems can beat chasing unicorn deals Why real estate investors should model different interest rate scenarios How re-amortization can sometimes reduce payment pressure at renewal Why buying properties tenants actually want can reduce vacancy risk Why investors need reserves and contingency planning Why the price is forever, but the rate is temporary Upcoming Events Edmonton Garden Suites 101 June 12, 2026 Edmonton, Alberta www.reimasters.ca/edmontongardensuites101 REI Masters Edmonton Real Estate Investing Bus Tour August 22, 2026 www.reimasters.ca/edmontonbustour About Your Hosts Wayne & Gabby Hillier are full-time real estate investors and real estate investing coaches based in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Through their REI Masters Mentorship Program, they help Canadians build long-term wealth using rental properties, BRRRRs, flips, joint ventures, wholesaling, seller financing, rent-to-own, garden suites, and creative financing. The Canadian Real Estate Investing Morning Show is a daily podcast focused on helping Canadian investors build cash flow, scale their portfolios, and invest with confidence. Resources & Contact Learn about the REI Masters Mentorship Program: www.reimasters.ca Bookkeeping & tax help for real estate investors: www.finngo.com/rei Get Wayne's book: The 5% Rule™ – A Real Estate Cash Flow Test for Canadian Investors https://a.co/d/jdZaBXM Submit a question or connect with us: info@reimorningshow.com Thanks to Our Sponsors Calvin Realty – Edmonton Investor-Focused Realtor calvinrealty.ca Finngo Bookkeeping & Tax – For Investors, By Investors www.finngo.com/rei Kirkwood & Brennan Mortgage Group keaton@kbmortgages.ca

Building a lease agreement is one thing. Enforcing it is where many landlords get uncomfortable. In this episode, Wayne and Gabby answer landlord and tenant questions about enforcing lease agreements, dealing with tenant disputes, and understanding the process when a tenancy starts going sideways. They discuss how Alberta's Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service works, what happens if a tenant files a claim against a landlord, and what evidence landlords should prepare when responding to a dispute. Wayne and Gabby also talk about what happens when a tenant does not move out at the end of a fixed-term lease, why landlords need to follow the legal process, and why documentation matters so much. They also cover one of the most common landlord frustrations: tenants trying to use their security deposit as last month's rent. This episode is a practical conversation about running your rental property like a real business. It covers lease enforcement, documentation, tenant screening, RTDRS claims, security deposits, eviction notices, and the systems landlords need to reduce risk. If you own rental properties or are planning to become a landlord, this episode will help you understand how to enforce your lease with confidence, professionalism, and proper documentation. What You'll Learn in This Episode Why building a lease agreement is only the first step Why enforcing the lease is where landlords need confidence How to be firm without being unreasonable Why landlords should understand the Residential Tenancies Act What the RTDRS is and how it works in Alberta What happens when a tenant files a claim against a landlord Why documentation matters in every landlord and tenant dispute How to prepare evidence for an RTDRS hearing Why timelines, written communication, and records are so important What happens if a tenant does not move out at the end of a fixed-term lease Why landlords cannot physically remove tenants themselves When a landlord may need an order and a bailiff Why tenants technically cannot use the security deposit as last month's rent Why this situation is still hard to prevent in real life Why tenant screening matters long before problems happen Why strong systems protect your rental property business Why Wayne believes many landlord problems come from not knowing the rules Why Alberta remains one of the strongest provinces for landlords and investors Upcoming Events Edmonton Garden Suites 101 June 12, 2026 Edmonton, Alberta www.reimasters.ca/edmontongardensuites101 REI Masters Edmonton Real Estate Investing Bus Tour August 22, 2026 www.reimasters.ca/edmontonbustour About Your Hosts Wayne & Gabby Hillier are full-time real estate investors and real estate investing coaches based in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Through their REI Masters Mentorship Program, they help Canadians build long-term wealth using rental properties, BRRRRs, flips, joint ventures, wholesaling, seller financing, rent-to-own, garden suites, and creative real estate strategies. The Canadian Real Estate Investing Morning Show is a daily podcast focused on helping Canadian investors build cash flow, scale their portfolios, and invest with confidence. Resources & Contact Learn about the REI Masters Mentorship Program: www.reimasters.ca Bookkeeping & tax help for real estate investors: www.finngo.com/rei Get Wayne's book: The 5% Rule™ – A Real Estate Cash Flow Test for Canadian Investors https://a.co/d/jdZaBXM Submit a question or connect with us: info@reimorningshow.com Thanks to Our Sponsors Calvin Realty – Edmonton Investor-Focused Realtor calvinrealty.ca Finngo Bookkeeping & Tax – For Investors, By Investors www.finngo.com/rei Kirkwood & Brennan Mortgage Group keaton@kbmortgages.ca

A strong lease agreement sets the foundation for your rental property business. In this episode, Wayne and Gabby break down how landlords can think about building a lease agreement that is clear, practical, and easy for tenants to understand. They explain why a lease agreement is not just about legal protection. It also helps set expectations, clarify responsibilities, document what both sides agreed to, and support the systems you use to manage your rental properties. Wayne and Gabby discuss why landlords should start with a proper template, make sure it follows provincial landlord and tenant laws, and then customize it based on their property, systems, and real-world experience. They also talk about communication rules, smoking, cannabis, pets, guests, parking, maintenance responsibilities, inspections, cleanliness expectations, and why a lease should be simple enough that tenants actually read and understand it. If you own rental properties, are preparing to rent out your first unit, or want to improve your landlording systems, this episode will help you understand what goes into a strong lease agreement. What You'll Learn in This Episode Why a lease agreement sets the foundation for your rental property business Why every landlord needs a clear written lease agreement Why a lease agreement should support provincial landlord and tenant laws Why you should start with a template instead of building from scratch Why your lease should be simple enough for tenants to understand Why legal language is not always better Why tenants need to understand their responsibilities before they move in Why communication rules are one of the most important parts of your system Why Wayne and Gabby prefer written communication with tenants Why documentation matters if a tenancy ever goes bad Why a lease agreement should support your property management systems What clauses landlords may want to consider adding Why smoking, cannabis, guests, pets, parking, and noise should be addressed Why multi-unit properties may require clearer expectations Why maintenance responsibilities should be outlined clearly Why inspections and documentation help protect your investment Why a good lease agreement is only one part of a larger landlord system About Your Hosts Wayne & Gabby Hillier are full-time real estate investors and real estate investing coaches based in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Through their REI Masters Mentorship Program, they help Canadians build long-term wealth using rental properties, BRRRRs, flips, joint ventures, wholesaling, seller financing, rent-to-own, garden suites, and creative real estate strategies. The Canadian Real Estate Investing Morning Show is a daily podcast focused on helping Canadian investors build cash flow, scale their portfolios, and invest with confidence. Resources & Contact Edmonton Garden Suites 101: www.reimasters.ca/edmontongardensuites101 Learn about the REI Masters Mentorship Program: www.reimasters.ca Bookkeeping & tax help for real estate investors: www.finngo.com/rei Get Wayne's book: The 5% Rule™ – A Real Estate Cash Flow Test for Canadian Investors https://a.co/d/jdZaBXM Submit a question or connect with us: info@reimorningshow.com Thanks to Our Sponsors Calvin Realty – Edmonton Investor-Focused Realtor calvinrealty.ca Finngo Bookkeeping & Tax – For Investors, By Investors www.finngo.com/rei Kirkwood & Brennan Mortgage Group keaton@kbmortgages.ca

What happens when your rental property renovation is finally finished, the cleaners are booked, the photographer is scheduled, and then a surprise repair shows up out of nowhere? In this episode, Wayne and Gabby share the painful story of a $14,000 surprise repair at one of their rental properties. After finishing a basement suite renovation, they discovered a major drain line issue that required jackhammering through the newly renovated suite, replacing the drain line, and repairing the damage afterward. Wayne and Gabby break down what happened, how they responded, why having the right trades and systems matters, and why real estate investors need to be prepared for unexpected repairs. They also talk about renovation surprises, contingency budgets, buying with enough equity cushion, cash reserves, and why owning rental properties requires emotional resilience. This episode is a real look behind the scenes of real estate investing. Not everything goes smoothly. Not every renovation stays on budget. Not every problem can be avoided. But with the right systems, the right team, and the right reserves, investors can handle these moments and keep moving forward. If you own rental properties, are planning your first renovation, or think real estate investing is always clean and easy, this episode will give you a more realistic picture of what it takes to build and manage a rental portfolio. What You'll Learn in This Episode What happened with Wayne and Gabby's $14,000 rental property repair Why surprise repairs can happen even after inspections and renovations Why drain line issues can be expensive and disruptive Why sewer lines and drain lines are not the same thing Why renovations rarely go exactly according to plan Why opening walls can reveal hidden electrical, plumbing, and safety issues Why investors need contingency budgets for renovations Why buying with equity cushion can protect you when costs increase Why cash reserves are critical for rental property investors Why having the right trades on your power team matters How Gabby handled the repair using systems and trusted contractors Why emotional resilience is part of being a real estate investor Why investors should expect problems and know who to call Why Wayne and Gabby still see the deal as manageable because they bought it right Why real estate investing requires both patience and action Why sharing real stories helps investors understand the business more honestly About Your Hosts Wayne & Gabby Hillier are full-time real estate investors and real estate investing coaches based in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Through their REI Masters Mentorship Program, they help Canadians build long-term wealth using rental properties, BRRRRs, flips, joint ventures, wholesaling, seller financing, rent-to-own, garden suites, and creative real estate strategies. The Canadian Real Estate Investing Morning Show is a daily podcast focused on helping Canadian investors build cash flow, scale their portfolios, and invest with confidence. Resources & Contact REI Masters Edmonton Real Estate Investing Bus Tour: www.reimasters.ca/edmontonbustour Use discount code: REI Morning Show Learn about the REI Masters Mentorship Program: www.reimasters.ca Bookkeeping & tax help for real estate investors: www.finngo.com/rei Get Wayne's book: The 5% Rule™ – A Real Estate Cash Flow Test for Canadian Investors https://a.co/d/jdZaBXM Submit a question or connect with us: info@reimorningshow.com Thanks to Our Sponsors Calvin Realty – Edmonton Investor-Focused Realtor calvinrealty.ca Finngo Bookkeeping & Tax – For Investors, By Investors www.finngo.com/rei Kirkwood & Brennan Mortgage Group keaton@kbmortgages.ca

Can one rental property change your family's future? In this episode, Wayne interviews Gabby about what real estate investing has created for their family, their lifestyle, and their long-term future. Gabby shares why the greatest benefit of real estate investing has been the lifestyle it created, including time freedom, the ability to homeschool their daughter, working together as a family, and having more control over their days. Wayne and Gabby also talk about the power of leverage, how they started with one rental property and a small down payment, and how real estate investing allowed them to build a life they never would have thought possible. This episode also dives into the emotional side of real estate investing, why people want financial freedom, why time matters so much, and why real estate can become a tool for creating a more fulfilling life. Wayne explains why real estate investing clicked for him, how leverage changed everything, and why he believes smart, fundamentals-based real estate investing can change the financial future of Canadian families. If you are trying to understand why real estate investing matters beyond monthly cash flow, this episode will help you see the bigger picture. What You'll Learn in This Episode Why real estate investing is about more than cash flow How real estate investing created lifestyle freedom for Wayne and Gabby Why time freedom can matter more than luxury or status How real estate helped create more flexibility for their family Why Gabby values being able to homeschool and work from home Why leverage is one of the most powerful parts of real estate investing How Wayne and Gabby started with one down payment and one property Why real estate can quietly build long-term wealth in the background Why patience is necessary when building a rental portfolio Why forcing growth too quickly can create unnecessary risk Why systems matter when managing rental properties at scale How Gabby manages a large portfolio remotely Why Wayne believes real estate investing is easier when you understand the math Why real estate can create confidence, certainty, and long-term opportunity Why starting sooner gives investors more time to compound How real estate investing can help build a more fulfilling life About Your Hosts Wayne & Gabby Hillier are full-time real estate investors and real estate investing coaches based in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Through their REI Masters Mentorship Program, they help Canadians build long-term wealth using rental properties, BRRRRs, flips, joint ventures, wholesaling, seller financing, rent-to-own, garden suites, and creative real estate strategies. The Canadian Real Estate Investing Morning Show is a daily podcast focused on helping Canadian investors build cash flow, scale their portfolios, and invest with confidence. Resources & Contact Learn about the REI Masters Mentorship Program: www.reimasters.ca Learn about the Remote Property Management Course: www.reimasters.ca Bookkeeping & tax help for real estate investors: www.finngo.com/rei Get Wayne's book: The 5% Rule™ – A Real Estate Cash Flow Test for Canadian Investors https://a.co/d/jdZaBXM Submit a question or connect with us: info@reimorningshow.com Thanks to Our Sponsors Calvin Realty – Edmonton Investor-Focused Realtor calvinrealty.ca Finngo Bookkeeping & Tax – For Investors, By Investors www.finngo.com/rei Kirkwood & Brennan Mortgage Group keaton@kbmortgages.ca

How do you know if a real estate deal is actually good? In this episode, Wayne and Gabby break down the key elements every investor should look at before buying a rental property. Wayne explains why a good deal is not based on emotion, wall colours, gut feeling, or whether a property simply "looks cool" online. A good real estate deal needs to be analyzed like a business. The conversation covers the most important pieces of a strong investment property, including cash flow, projected return on investment, tenant profile, money made on the buy, appreciation potential, value-add opportunities, and whether the deal actually fits your personal investing goals. Wayne and Gabby also share stories from their recent property viewings in Edmonton, including why they are actively buying right now, what they look for when walking through a property, and how small details can affect both buyer and tenant appeal. If you are trying to buy your first rental property, analyze better deals, or stop guessing whether something is a good investment, this episode will help you build a clearer checklist for making smarter real estate decisions. What You'll Learn in This Episode Why a good real estate deal should be judged like a business Why investors should not buy based on emotion or appearance alone Why cash flow is the first major piece of a good rental property How cash flow protects your portfolio during hard seasons Why the 5% Rule™ matters when analyzing rental properties What projected ROI means and why every investor needs a personal standard Why appreciation should be considered but not relied on Why tenant profile matters before you buy the property How the type of property affects the type of tenant you attract Why Wayne and Gabby prefer simple, easy-to-manage rentals Why making money on the buy can boost your return immediately Why value-add potential can make a deal stronger How upgrades, secondary suites, and garden suites can increase income and value Why not every value-add opportunity is worth doing Why a deal still needs to fit your personal goals Why clarity helps your realtor, coach, and network bring you better opportunities About Your Hosts Wayne & Gabby Hillier are full-time real estate investors and real estate investing coaches based in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Through their REI Masters Mentorship Program, they help Canadians build long-term wealth using rental properties, BRRRRs, flips, joint ventures, wholesaling, seller financing, rent-to-own, garden suites, and creative real estate strategies. The Canadian Real Estate Investing Morning Show is a daily podcast focused on helping Canadian investors build cash flow, scale their portfolios, and invest with confidence. Resources & Contact Learn about the REI Masters Mentorship Program: www.reimasters.ca Bookkeeping & tax help for real estate investors: www.finngo.com/rei Get Wayne's book: The 5% Rule™ – A Real Estate Cash Flow Test for Canadian Investors https://a.co/d/jdZaBXM Submit a question or connect with us: info@reimorningshow.com Thanks to Our Sponsors Calvin Realty – Edmonton Investor-Focused Realtor calvinrealty.ca Finngo Bookkeeping & Tax – For Investors, By Investors www.finngo.com/rei Kirkwood & Brennan Mortgage Group keaton@kbmortgages.ca

What does it mean when a private equity firm plans to buy hundreds of millions of dollars worth of unsold Toronto condos and turn them into rentals? In this episode, Wayne and Gabby break down a major Canadian real estate story involving a Montreal-based private equity firm reportedly planning to purchase roughly $500 million worth of unsold Toronto condo units and convert them into rental housing. Wayne explains why this story matters for Canadian real estate investors, even if they are not investing in Toronto. The conversation explores how market cycles work, why institutional investors often step in when everyday buyers freeze, and how unsold condo inventory can shift from the ownership market into the rental market. Wayne and Gabby also discuss the possible ripple effects of adding a large amount of condo rental inventory into one market, including what it could mean for vacancy rates, rental prices, landlord competition, and investor sentiment. They also connect the conversation back to Edmonton, garden suites, bus tour takeaways, and why smart investors need to understand where opportunity is heading before the crowd catches on. If you are trying to understand Canadian real estate cycles, Toronto condos, rental supply, investor behaviour, and how to spot opportunities before they become obvious, this episode will help you think more strategically. What You'll Learn in This Episode Why a private equity firm is targeting unsold Toronto condos What $500 million in condo purchases could mean for the rental market Why unsold condo inventory can become an opportunity for large investors Why institutional investors play a different game than mom-and-pop investors Why everyday investors should not blindly copy large private equity firms How condo inventory can shift from ownership housing to rental housing Why adding rental supply can affect vacancy rates and rental prices How market cycles create opportunities for investors who understand timing Why smart investors pay attention when headlines turn negative Why investors need to watch what happens after big money enters a market How government incentives and affordable rental housing may influence large purchases Why Wayne believes investors need to follow the breadcrumbs and act before opportunities disappear Key takeaways from the REI Masters Edmonton Real Estate Investing Bus Tour Why Edmonton garden suites remain a major opportunity for local investors Why education, coaching, systems, and execution matter after buying the property About Your Hosts Wayne & Gabby Hillier are full-time real estate investors and real estate investing coaches based in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Through their REI Masters Mentorship Program, they help Canadians build long-term wealth using rental properties, BRRRRs, flips, joint ventures, wholesaling, seller financing, rent-to-own, garden suites, and creative real estate strategies. The Canadian Real Estate Investing Morning Show is a daily podcast focused on helping Canadian investors build cash flow, scale their portfolios, and invest with confidence. Resources & Contact Learn about the REI Masters Mentorship Program: www.reimasters.ca Bookkeeping & tax help for real estate investors: www.finngo.com/rei Get Wayne's book: The 5% Rule™ – A Real Estate Cash Flow Test for Canadian Investors https://a.co/d/jdZaBXM Submit a question or connect with us: info@reimorningshow.com Thanks to Our Sponsors Calvin Realty – Edmonton Investor-Focused Realtor calvinrealty.ca Finngo Bookkeeping & Tax – For Investors, By Investors www.finngo.com/rei Kirkwood & Brennan Mortgage Group keaton@kbmortgages.ca

What is really happening in the Edmonton real estate market right now? In this episode, Wayne and Gabby are joined by Edmonton investor-focused Realtor Calvin Hexter from Calvin Realty for a real-time Edmonton real estate market update. Calvin shares what he is seeing in the spring 2026 market, including inventory levels, buyer activity, seller expectations, condo apartment movement, price trends, and where the market may be heading later this year. Wayne, Gabby, and Calvin also discuss why Edmonton continues to attract real estate investors from across Canada, why cash flow is still one of the biggest advantages of investing in Alberta, and why Edmonton remains a reliable long-term market for investors who want safety, consistency, and strong fundamentals. They also talk about the difference between primary home buyers and investors, why some sellers may become more motivated as listings sit longer, and how investors can use market data to make smarter offers, find better opportunities, and avoid emotional decision-making. If you are investing in Edmonton, thinking about buying your first rental property, or trying to understand where the Alberta real estate market is heading in 2026, this episode will help you see the market from both an investor and Realtor perspective. What You'll Learn in This Episode What is happening in the Edmonton real estate market right now Why Edmonton continues to attract investors from across Canada Why Wayne and Gabby still see Edmonton as one of Canada's best real estate investing markets Why cash flow is one of Edmonton's biggest advantages How cash flow helps investors weather real estate market storms Why the 5% Rule™ matters when buying rental properties What Calvin is seeing with spring 2026 inventory levels Why the Edmonton market is balanced but still slightly seller-favoured Why investors may see more opportunities later in 2026 Why condo apartments saw movement, but may not be ideal for most investors Why sellers need to be more strategic in today's market How investors can find opportunity in listings that sit longer Why repeated price drops can signal seller motivation Why seller financing may become more relevant in a softening market How Calvin Realty helps investors narrow down areas, property types, and strategies Why Edmonton's "boring" consistency can be a major strength for long-term investors About Today's Guest Calvin Hexter is an Edmonton investor-focused Realtor and founder of Calvin Realty. Calvin and his team work with real estate investors across Alberta, helping them identify strong rental property opportunities, understand neighbourhood desirability, analyze investor-friendly properties, and navigate the Edmonton market with more confidence. Learn more at: calvinrealty.ca Resources From Calvin Realty QUIZ: What area, A, B, C, or D, suits you best? https://ph251bwc1lb.typeform.com/to/NX69XAOX What do the A, B, C, and D areas mean? https://calvinrealty.ca/edmonton-specific-a-b-c-d-locations/ Desirability Map: See which Edmonton locations fit you https://calvinrealty.ca/investor-desirability-map/ May 2026 Edmonton Market Stats https://calvinrealty.ca/may-2026-edmonton-market-snapshot-momentum-is-building-but-strategy-matters-more-than-ever/ About Your Hosts Wayne & Gabby Hillier are full-time real estate investors and real estate investing coaches based in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Through their REI Masters Mentorship Program, they help Canadians build long-term wealth using rental properties, BRRRRs, flips, joint ventures, wholesaling, seller financing, rent-to-own, and other creative real estate strategies. The Canadian Real Estate Investing Morning Show is a daily podcast focused on helping Canadian investors build cash flow, scale their portfolios, and invest with confidence. Resources & Contact Learn about the REI Masters Mentorship Program: www.reimasters.ca Bookkeeping & tax help for real estate investors: www.finngo.com/rei Get Wayne's book: The 5% Rule™ – A Real Estate Cash Flow Test for Canadian Investors https://a.co/d/jdZaBXM Submit a question or connect with us: info@reimorningshow.com Thanks to Our Sponsors Calvin Realty – Edmonton Investor-Focused Realtor calvinrealty.ca Finngo Bookkeeping & Tax – For Investors, By Investors www.finngo.com/rei Kirkwood & Brennan Mortgage Group keaton@kbmortgages.ca

You do not need to be rich, famous, flashy, or full-time in real estate to build massive wealth. In this episode, Wayne and Gabby break down how average Canadians are quietly building serious long-term wealth through simple, boring, fundamentals-driven real estate investing. Wayne explains why most successful real estate investors do not look flashy from the outside. They are often regular people buying practical rental properties, focusing on cash flow, using bank financing wisely, holding for the long term, and repeating the process over time. This episode is especially helpful for newer investors who feel overwhelmed by complicated strategies, social media hype, and the idea that real estate investing has to be exciting or impressive to work. Wayne and Gabby explain why boring properties can create extraordinary results, why cash flow matters, how leverage allows investors to control larger assets with less of their own money, and why long-term patience is where most of the wealth is created. If you are wondering whether real estate investing is still possible for average Canadians, this episode will show you why the answer is yes, as long as you focus on the fundamentals and stop chasing flashy deals that do not make sense. What You'll Learn in This Episode How average people quietly build massive real estate wealth Why you do not need to be rich or flashy to become a successful investor Why starting early gives investors a major advantage Why it is still not too late if you are starting in your 40s or 50s Why cash flow is one of the most important foundations of real estate investing Why boring rental properties can produce incredible long-term results How leverage allows investors to buy property using bank financing Why tenants can help pay down your mortgage and build your equity The three main ways rental properties create wealth Why real estate investing works best when you hold for the long term Why investors should focus on numbers instead of emotion Why repeating a simple process can outperform chasing flashy strategies Why Wayne believes slow and steady is the safest path for most investors How free education and coaching can help new investors take their first step About Your Hosts Wayne & Gabby Hillier are full-time real estate investors and real estate investing coaches based in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Through their REI Masters Mentorship Program, they help Canadians build long-term wealth using rental properties, BRRRRs, flips, joint ventures, wholesaling, seller financing, rent-to-own, and other creative real estate strategies. The Canadian Real Estate Investing Morning Show is a daily podcast focused on helping Canadian investors build cash flow, scale their portfolios, and invest with confidence. Resources & Contact Learn about the REI Masters Mentorship Program: www.reimasters.ca Bookkeeping & tax help for real estate investors: www.finngo.com/rei Get Wayne's book: The 5% Rule™ – A Real Estate Cash Flow Test for Canadian Investors https://a.co/d/jdZaBXM Submit a question or connect with us: info@reimorningshow.com Thanks to Our Sponsors Calvin Realty – Edmonton Investor-Focused Realtor calvinrealty.ca Finngo Bookkeeping & Tax – For Investors, By Investors www.finngo.com/rei Kirkwood & Brennan Mortgage Group keaton@kbmortgages.ca

Real estate investing builds wealth, but rental property cash flow usually takes time. In this episode, Wayne and Gabby talk about how smart investors can make money outside of their rental properties while still building long-term wealth through real estate. Wayne explains why relying only on rental property cash flow in the early years can create unrealistic expectations. Rental properties are powerful wealth-building tools, but it can take years for cash flow, appreciation, mortgage paydown, and refinancing to create true financial freedom. That does not mean investors need to stay stuck in jobs they hate forever. This episode breaks down different ways real estate investors can create active income within the real estate industry, including becoming a Realtor, mortgage broker, photographer, stager, contractor, wholesaler, fix and flipper, or building a service-based business that supports other investors. Wayne also shares a real example from his own portfolio, where a joint venture property purchased for approximately $179,000 appraised at $240,000 three years later, creating an opportunity to refinance, return the partner's original capital, and roll the equity into another property. If you are building a rental portfolio but want more income, more flexibility, or a faster way to reduce reliance on your job, this episode will help you think about active income strategies that can support your real estate investing journey. What You'll Learn in This Episode Why rental property cash flow usually takes time to become meaningful Why investors should not rely only on early-stage rental income How active income can support your real estate investing journey Why real estate investing is a long-term wealth-building strategy How Wayne and Gabby think about combining active income with rental properties Why becoming a Realtor can complement your investing business How mortgage brokering, photography, staging, and contracting can fit into the real estate space Why wholesaling can create active income, but requires consistency and a real business system Why fix and flips can be profitable, but also carry significant risk How Wayne thinks about spotting real estate trends and future opportunities A real refinance example from Wayne and Gabby's own joint venture portfolio Why buying the right asset class matters when building long-term wealth Why active income can give investors more flexibility while their rental portfolio compounds About Your Hosts Wayne & Gabby Hillier are full-time real estate investors and real estate investing coaches based in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Through their REI Masters Mentorship Program, they help Canadians build long-term wealth using rental properties, BRRRRs, flips, joint ventures, wholesaling, seller financing, rent-to-own, and other creative real estate strategies. The Canadian Real Estate Investing Morning Show is a daily podcast focused on helping Canadian investors build cash flow, scale their portfolios, and invest with confidence. Resources & Contact Learn about the REI Masters Mentorship Program: www.reimasters.ca Bookkeeping & tax help for real estate investors: www.finngo.com/rei Get Wayne's book: The 5% Rule™ – A Real Estate Cash Flow Test for Canadian Investors https://a.co/d/jdZaBXM Submit a question or connect with us: info@reimorningshow.com Thanks to Our Sponsors Calvin Realty – Edmonton Investor-Focused Realtor calvinrealty.ca Finngo Bookkeeping & Tax – For Investors, By Investors www.finngo.com/rei Kirkwood & Brennan Mortgage Group keaton@kbmortgages.ca

What features actually matter in a rental property? In this episode, Wayne and Gabby answer a listener question from an investor closing on a rental property who wanted to know whether it was worth adding a dishwasher and whether a bathtub or stand-up shower was better from a rental perspective. This conversation turns into a practical breakdown of the features tenants care about, which upgrades are worth spending money on, and which features may sound nice but do not necessarily improve your rental property business. Wayne and Gabby discuss how to think about tenant profile first, why families often need different features than single tenants, and why every upgrade should be considered through the lens of rentability, return on investment, risk, and long-term property management. They also cover why some features help you attract better tenants, why others create unnecessary maintenance, and why landlords should avoid spending money on upgrades that do not increase value, rent, or tenant retention. If you own rental properties, are preparing to buy one, or want to make smarter decisions before renovating a rental, this episode will help you understand what tenants actually look for and what investors should prioritize. What You'll Learn in This Episode Why tenant profile should guide your rental property decisions Whether a dishwasher is worth adding to an older townhouse Why a dishwasher can help, but may not always justify the cost Why portable dishwashers may not be ideal for rental properties Why a bathtub is usually better than a stand-up shower for family rentals Why families with young kids often need a tub Why a fenced yard is a must-have feature for many townhouse rentals Why sheds, fire pits, and hot tubs may create more problems than value Whether a second bathroom matters in a townhouse Why air conditioning is a bonus, but usually not a must-have Why TV mounts may be worth considering in some rentals When a finished basement or fourth bedroom can help attract tenants Why hot water on demand may be useful, but still requires maintenance considerations How to decide whether an upgrade improves value, rentability, cash flow, or risk About Your Hosts Wayne & Gabby Hillier are full-time real estate investors and real estate investing coaches based in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Through their REI Masters Mentorship Program, they help Canadians build long-term wealth using rental properties, BRRRRs, flips, joint ventures, and creative real estate strategies. The Canadian Real Estate Investing Morning Show is a daily podcast focused on helping Canadian investors build cash flow, scale their portfolios, and invest with confidence. Resources & Contact Learn about the REI Masters Mentorship Program: www.reimasters.ca Bookkeeping & tax help for real estate investors: www.finngo.com/rei Get Wayne's book: The 5% Rule™ – A Real Estate Cash Flow Test for Canadian Investors https://a.co/d/jdZaBXM Submit a question or connect with us: info@reimorningshow.com Thanks to Our Sponsors Calvin Realty – Edmonton Investor-Focused Realtor calvinrealty.ca Finngo Bookkeeping & Tax – For Investors, By Investors www.finngo.com/rei Kirkwood & Brennan Mortgage Group keaton@kbmortgages.ca

How many rental properties do you actually need? In this episode, Wayne and Gabby answer a listener question about how many rental properties it takes to create financial freedom, step away from a job, and start living off the cash flow from a real estate portfolio. Wayne explains why this question is more complicated than most investors realize. The answer depends on your income goals, your current resources, your timeline, your risk tolerance, your market, your financing ability, and whether you are in the wealth-building stage or the cash-flow stage of your investing journey. They also discuss why many investors get pulled into unrealistic expectations around financial freedom, why more doors does not always mean more success, and why building a strong real estate portfolio usually requires patience, planning, and realistic expectations. If you are trying to figure out how many rental properties you need, whether you should focus on cash flow or equity, and how to build a portfolio that actually supports your long-term goals, this episode will help you think more clearly about the path ahead. What You'll Learn in This Episode Why "how many rental properties do I need?" is not a simple question Why your answer depends on your personal goals and financial target Why financial freedom is often sold with unrealistic expectations Why more doors does not automatically mean more success Why some investors burn out before their portfolio has time to work The difference between an equity-building portfolio and a cash-flow portfolio Why patience is critical in long-term buy-and-hold real estate investing How refinancing can build wealth but may not immediately increase cash flow Why selling, refinancing, and cash flow all have different trade-offs Why rental properties often become more powerful over time Why investors should focus on return on investment and risk, not just door count Why the 5% Rule™ matters when evaluating rental property cash flow How a clear plan can help you avoid buying properties without purpose About Your Hosts Wayne & Gabby Hillier are full-time real estate investors and real estate investing coaches based in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Through their REI Masters Mentorship Program, they help Canadians build long-term wealth using rental properties, BRRRRs, flips, joint ventures, and creative real estate strategies. The Canadian Real Estate Investing Morning Show is a daily podcast focused on helping Canadian investors build cash flow, scale their portfolios, and invest with confidence. Resources & Contact Learn about the REI Masters Mentorship Program: www.reimasters.ca Bookkeeping & tax help for real estate investors: www.finngo.com/rei Get Wayne's book: The 5% Rule™ – A Real Estate Cash Flow Test for Canadian Investors https://a.co/d/jdZaBXM Submit a question or connect with us: info@reimorningshow.com Thanks to Our Sponsors Calvin Realty – Edmonton Investor-Focused Realtor calvinrealty.ca Finngo Bookkeeping & Tax – For Investors, By Investors www.finngo.com/rei Kirkwood & Brennan Mortgage Group keaton@kbmortgages.ca

Should real estate investors join the condo board when they own rental properties in a condo complex? In this episode, Wayne and Gabby answer a listener question about whether landlords and real estate investors should join the condo board to have more influence over decisions that affect their investment properties. Wayne breaks down why his personal answer is usually no, especially if the motivation is fear around special assessments, condo fees, or future board decisions. He explains how condo corporations, reserve funds, reserve fund studies, financial statements, and special assessments typically work, and why proper due diligence before buying is usually more valuable than taking on an unpaid board role afterward. The conversation also expands into a bigger discussion about financial awareness, lifetime earning potential, real estate equity, and how investors can use long-term forecasting to understand the wealth-building power of rental properties. If you invest in townhouses, condos, or any property connected to a condo corporation, this episode will help you think more clearly about risk, responsibility, due diligence, and whether joining the board is actually worth your time. What You'll Learn in This Episode Why a listener asked whether investors should join condo boards Why Wayne usually does not join condo boards himself How condo board roles can create extra unpaid responsibility Why joining the board may not give you as much control as you think How special assessments usually happen Why reserve funds and reserve fund studies matter Why proper condo document review is so important before buying How bylaws are changed in a condo corporation Why investor confidence comes from education and due diligence How long-term portfolio forecasting can show the real power of rental properties Why job income alone may not create the financial future many people expect How small refinancing decisions can change your long-term wealth trajectory About Your Hosts Wayne & Gabby Hillier are full-time real estate investors and real estate investing coaches based in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Through their REI Masters Mentorship Program, they help Canadians build long-term wealth using rental properties, BRRRRs, flips, joint ventures, and creative real estate strategies. The Canadian Real Estate Investing Morning Show is a daily podcast focused on helping Canadian investors build cash flow, scale their portfolios, and invest with confidence. Resources & Contact Learn about the REI Masters Mentorship Program: www.reimasters.ca Bookkeeping & tax help for real estate investors: www.finngo.com/rei Get Wayne's book: The 5% Rule™ – A Real Estate Cash Flow Test for Canadian Investors https://a.co/d/jdZaBXM Submit a question or connect with us: info@reimorningshow.com Thanks to Our Sponsors Calvin Realty – Edmonton Investor-Focused Realtor calvinrealty.ca Finngo Bookkeeping & Tax – For Investors, By Investors www.finngo.com/rei Kirkwood & Brennan Mortgage Group keaton@kbmortgages.ca

Buying your first home early can completely change the direction of your financial life. In this episode, Wayne and Gabby break down why buying your first home by age 25 can become one of the simplest ways to build wealth, create options, and set yourself up to become a millionaire by age 40. Wayne explains how home ownership starts the equity clock, why waiting too long can shrink your wealth-building window, and how homeowners can use appreciation, mortgage paydown, and refinancing to build a real estate portfolio over time. This episode also dives into the bigger picture of generational wealth. Wayne and Gabby discuss why the next generation may have a harder time buying real estate, why parents need to think differently about helping their kids get ahead, and why doing nothing can actually push families further behind financially. If you are young, raising kids, starting late, or trying to figure out how real estate can create long-term wealth, this episode will challenge the way you think about home ownership, equity, and your financial future. What You'll Learn in This Episode Why buying your first home early can change your financial trajectory Why Wayne believes 25 is a critical age for starting the equity clock How home ownership builds wealth through mortgage paydown and appreciation Why your job income alone may not be enough to build long-term financial security How inflation and rising housing costs make ownership more important over time Why renting versus owning can create a major wealth gap between families How refinancing equity can help you buy additional properties over time A simple example of going from one home to multiple rental properties Why generational wealth starts with the financial decisions you make today Why future generations may need real estate ownership more than ever About Your Hosts Wayne & Gabby Hillier are full-time real estate investors and real estate investing coaches based in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Through their REI Masters Mentorship Program, they help Canadians build long-term wealth using rental properties, BRRRRs, flips, joint ventures, and creative real estate strategies. The Canadian Real Estate Investing Morning Show is a daily podcast focused on helping Canadian investors build cash flow, scale their portfolios, and invest with confidence. Resources & Contact Learn about the REI Masters Mentorship Program: www.reimasters.ca Bookkeeping & tax help for real estate investors: www.finngo.com/rei Get Wayne's book: The 5% Rule™ – A Real Estate Cash Flow Test for Canadian Investors https://a.co/d/jdZaBXM Submit a question or connect with us: info@reimorningshow.com Thanks to Our Sponsors Calvin Realty – Edmonton Investor-Focused Realtor calvinrealty.ca Finngo Bookkeeping & Tax – For Investors, By Investors www.finngo.com/rei Kirkwood & Brennan Mortgage Group keaton@kbmortgages.ca

Finding the right tenant can make or break your rental property business. In this episode, Wayne and Gabby break down how to find the perfect tenant for your rental property by starting with the right tenant profile, advertising in the right places, writing better rental listings, and building a screening process that protects you as a landlord. They explain why tenant selection is not just about finding someone with good credit or a steady job. It is about finding the right person for the right property, reducing vacancy, attracting long-term tenants, and building a rental business that is simple, profitable, and easier to manage. Wayne and Gabby also talk about why Facebook Marketplace has become one of the most important places to advertise rental properties, how to write ads that attract the right people, and why too much friction in the application process can scare away great tenants. If you own rental properties or you're preparing to buy your first one, this episode will help you understand how to attract, screen, and choose better tenants with more confidence. What You'll Learn in This Episode Why finding the perfect tenant starts before you ever post the rental ad How to reverse engineer your rental property around your ideal tenant profile Why Facebook Marketplace is one of the most important places to advertise rentals How to write a simple rental listing that gets the right tenant's attention Why your ad should focus on the features tenants actually care about Why too much friction in the application process can reduce good applicants How to use Facebook profiles, Google, and online information for pre-screening Why employment, income, affordability, and credit history matter How to think about credit scores from a landlord's risk-management perspective Why systems make tenant placement easier to manage and easier to delegate About Your Hosts Wayne & Gabby Hillier are full-time real estate investors and real estate investing coaches based in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Through their REI Masters Mentorship Program, they help Canadians build long-term wealth using rental properties, BRRRRs, flips, joint ventures, and creative real estate strategies. The Canadian Real Estate Investing Morning Show is a daily podcast focused on helping Canadian investors build cash flow, scale their portfolios, and invest with confidence. Resources & Contact Learn about the REI Masters Mentorship Program: www.reimasters.ca Remote Property Management Course: www.reimasters.ca Bookkeeping & tax help for real estate investors: www.finngo.com/rei Get Wayne's book: The 5% Rule™ – A Real Estate Cash Flow Test for Canadian Investors https://a.co/d/jdZaBXM Submit a question or connect with us: info@reimorningshow.com Thanks to Our Sponsors Calvin Realty – Edmonton Investor-Focused Realtor calvinrealty.ca Finngo Bookkeeping & Tax – For Investors, By Investors www.finngo.com/rei Kirkwood & Brennan Mortgage Group keaton@kbmortgages.ca

Buying your first rental property can feel overwhelming, especially when you're using your savings, home equity, or hard-earned capital to get started. In this episode, Wayne and Gabby break down the simple, practical steps new investors need to understand before buying their first rental property. They explain why real estate investing does not need to be complicated, why most new investors should avoid overcomplicating the process, and how to focus on the fundamentals that actually protect your money. Wayne and Gabby also cover the importance of understanding your tenant profile, choosing a property that appeals to the right tenants, buying in a market with growth potential, making sure the property cash flows, getting financing clarity, working with an investor-focused Realtor, and completing proper due diligence before removing conditions. If you're thinking about buying your first rental property in Canada, this episode will help you simplify the process and build confidence before taking action. What You'll Learn in This Episode Why buying your first rental property feels scary for so many new investors Why simple "vanilla" real estate investing is often the safest place to start How to choose a property based on tenant demand instead of personal preference Why cash flow protects you from interest rates, vacancies, repairs, and market shifts Why you should speak with a mortgage broker before seriously looking at properties How an investor-focused Realtor can help you find deals faster Why home inspections, condo document reviews, and financing conditions matter How due diligence can help you renegotiate or walk away from the wrong deal Why your power team should help carry the process instead of you doing everything yourself About Your Hosts Wayne & Gabby Hillier are full-time real estate investors and real estate investing coaches based in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Through their REI Masters Mentorship Program, they help Canadians build long-term wealth using rental properties, BRRRRs, flips, joint ventures, and creative real estate strategies. The Canadian Real Estate Investing Morning Show is a daily podcast focused on helping Canadian investors build cash flow, scale their portfolios, and invest with confidence. Resources & Contact Learn about the REI Masters Mentorship Program: www.reimasters.ca Bookkeeping & tax help for real estate investors: www.finngo.com/rei Get Wayne's book: The 5% Rule™ – A Real Estate Cash Flow Test for Canadian Investors https://a.co/d/jdZaBXM Submit a question or connect with us: info@reimorningshow.com Thanks to Our Sponsors Calvin Realty – Edmonton Investor-Focused Realtor calvinrealty.ca Finngo Bookkeeping & Tax – For Investors, By Investors www.finngo.com/rei Kirkwood & Brennan Mortgage Group keaton@kbmortgages.ca

What Tenants Look For in a Rental Property | 5 Must-Have Features for Real Estate Investors Canadian Real Estate Investing Morning Show – Hosted by Wayne & Gabby Hillier If you've ever wondered why some rental properties attract great long-term tenants while others struggle with turnover, this episode breaks it down. Today, Wayne & Gabby dive into a powerful listener question: what actually makes a rental property desirable to tenants? This isn't about guessing. It's about understanding tenant psychology, building better rental products, and making smarter investment decisions that lead to stronger cash flow and long-term stability. From privacy and yard space to layout, location, and parking, this episode gives you a practical framework you can use immediately when analyzing your next deal.

Wayne and Gabby break down how they've added over $6M to their real estate portfolio in the last two years using joint ventures. They walk through a real deal they're currently closing, sharing lessons on negotiation, timing, and how investor behavior impacts outcomes. They also unpack a recent report on Edmonton real estate returns and explain what investors should actually take away from it.

Real Estate Investing Is Hard — Don't Quit Real Estate Investing Morning Show – Hosted by Wayne & Gabby Hillier Real estate investing isn't easy… and it's not supposed to be. In today's episode, Wayne and Gabby get real about the emotional and mental challenges of building a real estate business. From overwhelming days and difficult tenants to the pressure of juggling work, family, and investing — this episode is a reminder that if it feels hard, you're doing it right. The key message: don't quit… reconnect with your why.

Real Deals We've Done: Breaking Down the Numbers Real Estate Investing Morning Show – Hosted by Wayne & Gabby Hillier Today's episode pulls back the curtain on real estate investing using actual deals, real numbers, and real results. No projections. No fluff. No "guru math." Just real case studies from Wayne's own portfolio and REI Masters students — showing exactly what's possible when you buy right, manage properly, and follow proven fundamentals like the 5% Rule™. If you've ever wondered what real returns actually look like… this is the episode.

Spring Maintenance Every Landlord Needs to Do Right Now (Before It Costs You Thousands) Real Estate Investing Morning Show – Hosted by Wayne & Gabby Hillier Spring is here in Alberta… which means melting snow, water movement, and one of the most important times of year for protecting your rental properties. In this episode, Wayne and Gabby break down practical spring maintenance tips every landlord should be thinking about right now, along with a real listener question about insurance challenges investors are facing today. If you own rentals (or plan to), this is the kind of foundational stuff that protects your portfolio long-term.