Real Estate Board News

Capitalizing on your niche can be the key to moving your business forward—just ask April Brown and Sarah Sklash, founders of The June Motel in Prince Edward County. What started as a side hustle between best friends has now turned into a Netflix sensation and multi-property endeavor. 

On this episode of the REAL TIME podcast, April and Sarah share how honing in on their unique offering is what really made The June Motel into what it is today. Plus, hear their take on why focusing on a niche audience can actually make things easier when it comes to marketing your business. 

Data tells a story, but context helps bring it to life. Earlier this month, the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) released its resale housing market forecast for 2025 and 2026, anticipating a busy market—starting as early as this spring—as buyers move off the sidelines. 

Shaun Cathcart, CREA’s Director and Senior Economist, Housing Data and Market Analysis, joins this episode of the REAL TIME podcast to unpack the housing market outlook; what’s happening in different regions of the country; and how advances in housing technologies could help address housing supply shortages.

Connections, community, and curiosity. That’s what you can expect from the REAL TIME podcast in 2025. New host, actor and comedian, Shaun Majumder is ready to explore the world of Canadian real estate, cutting through the clutter and bringing a fresh take to some hot topics—all while keeping REALTORS® at the heart of the conversation. Real experts. Real insights. All things Canadian real estate. Right here, on the REAL TIME podcast.

The REALTORS Care® moniker helps highlight the charitable efforts of REALTORS® across Canada. Since 2007, the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) has celebrated the remarkable contributions REALTORS® all across the country have made to a variety of causes close to their hearts..

On this episode of REAL TIME, we’re joined by Cindi Loforti Lepp and Ken Hammer, two REALTORS® nominated for the Canadian REALTORS Care® Award 2024 for their own incredible community impact. This is a feel-good conversation - listen in and be prepared to be inspired!

When was the last time you talked in depth about your money? Research shows talking about finances can build financial confidence, and lead to better financial outcomes. But you need to know where to start.

On this episode of the REAL TIME podcast we’re joined by Melissa Leong, best-selling author and resident money expert on the daytime talk show, The Social, to dive deeper into the connection between money and happiness, how we use emotion over logic when it comes to financial decision making, some of the most common mistakes made by self-employed individuals, and how being more financially aware can help REALTORS® in their businesses.

From a trailer park in Newfoundland to buying properties and land across Canada, to even buying and selling homes in the United States, Canadian actor and comedian Shaun Majumder has lived all over North America—in many types of homes. His life journey can be mapped through real estates, with emotional memories attached to every move.

On this episode of REAL TIME, Shaun joins us from CREA PAC Days 2024 to share his first memory of home, how his different moves helped shape his journey and experiences, and how finding the right REALTOR® was more about than just who was the most knowledgeable—it was about who was the best fit.

There are countless ways to succeed in real estate and no two individuals take the exact same route—so, how then does a real estate professional confidently make their next move? There’s so much to learn from other REALTORS® and those who have been in the industry for a long period of time, or have taken a unique path to success.

Mentorship doesn’t just benefit the mentees—mentors also have a lot to gain—like leadership skills, a helping create a more vibrant industry, improved communication skills, insight from different perspectives, a broader network, and boosted confidence. For mentees, the guidance and knowledge transfer is invaluable, networking opportunities can help grow your business, and learning the ins and outs of the industry from someone who’s been through it already can help boost your confidence, too.

Nicole Christy, CEO at the Ottawa Real Estate Board, and Rachel Gagnon, REALTOR® and Top 35 Under 35 with Royal Lepage, join the latest episode of the REAL TIME podcast to talk about their experience with mentorship and how it’s helped their careers.

Exploration into turning REALTOR.ca into a for-profit subsidiary of CREA has included the most comprehensive due-diligence process undertaken in CREA history.. It’s about keeping REALTORS® at the forefront, looking at how this invaluable tool could be better leveraged to serve members, and addressing changing consumer needs. The proposed path forward is outlined in REALTOR.ca Forward: the draft business case for REALTOR.ca as a taxable entity.

Understandably, the discussion has sparked curiosity from members.

On this episode of REAL TIME, Janice Myers, CREA CEO, and James Mabey, CREA Chair, answer common questions regarding the draft business case and what the transformation could mean for REALTORS®.

It’s no secret that Canada is facing a housing crisis. The country is in need of programs and strategies to help build more homes that meet people where they are. It’s a national issue that requires collaboration from all leaders, politically and otherwise.

The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities, is our guest on this episode of REAL TIME, where we discuss Canada’s housing supply goals, where we can draw inspiration from, and how REALTORS® can be part of solutions.

On June 5, The Bank of Canada announced its first rate cut in four years. This could be the sign many were waiting for to come off the sidelines and step into Canada’s housing markets. But, what does that look like across the country and how do other economic factors play into the decision making process?

On the latest episode of REAL TIME, we hear from Shaun Cathcart, Director and Senior Economist, Housing Data and Market Analysis with the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA), Ann-Marie Lurie, Chief Economist with the Calgary Real Estate Board (CREB), and Jason Mercer, Chief Market Analyst with the Toronto Regional Real Estate Board (TRREB), as they share insights on the current state of Canada’s housing market from a national, provincial, and local level, exploring everything from the need for more supply to interprovincial migration to pricing.

From websites and ads to social media, newsletters, and podcasts, content is everywhere and has the potential to be a powerful business driver.

But how do you consistently create good, creative content?

That’s where Melanie Deziel comes in, a creativity coach and leading voice in content marketing. With clients including Google, Netflix, The New York Times, and others, Melanie joins REAL TIME to share her framework for systemizing creativity, making it easier and faster to generate content that stands out and connects with your audience.

Learn more about Melanie and her book The Content Fuel Framework at MelanieDeziel.com.

Everyone’s been put to the test in their career. On this episode of REAL TIME, we invite two members of the REALTOR® community, Anu Joshi-Mehendale and Dusko Sremac, to reflect on their top lessons learned in real estate as they approach a decade of experience in their respective practices.

Get advice to help you minimize mistakes, set yourself up for success, and stay motivated in your own practice – new or established.

A survivor of two civil wars, Zahra Al-Harazi immigrated to Canada in 1996 with her three children and no higher education. Today, she’s one of Canada’s most successful entrepreneurs.

On this episode of REAL TIME, Zahra unpacks the turning point in her story, when she defined her sense of purpose, and how it continues to guide her and her businesses. She also shares strategies for defining your own purpose, and how to harmonize your personal and professional values, so you can stay focused, motivated, and fulfilled.

Discover Ikigai, the Japanese concept Zahra swears by for inspiring your sense of purpose: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ikigai

Learn more about the Enneagram personality types: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Enneagram_of_Personality

Anthony Morgan is an award-winning science communicator. He’s also a PhD researcher and startup founder who’s hosted dozens of TV shows, including the Discovery Channel’s Daily Planet and CBC’s The Nature of Things with Sarika Cullis-Suzuki.

He’s the mastermind behind Freestyle Socials, a live, hilarious game designed to “undivide” people by blurring the lines we draw between one another.

On this episode of REAL TIME, Anthony shares science-based insight to help REALTORS® become better problem solvers in the face of a disagreement.

Watch the experiment Anthony describes as a “magic trick”– Daniel Simons’ selective attention test: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vJG698U2Mvo

Colour affects us physically and mentally. In business, it’s a silent salesperson, a powerful way to send a message.

To start the year, we invited one of the world’s leading colour consultants to help us explore colour trends and the malleable nature of colour itself – how we perceive it, what we can do with it, and how REALTORS® can wield it to instill confidence in their clients.

Leatrice (Lee) Eiseman is Executive Director of the Pantone Color Institute™ and Director of the Eiseman Center for Color Information and Technology. For more than 20 years, she’s been responsible for choosing the Pantone® Color of the Year, which has vastly influenced the worlds of fashion, interior design, product development, and beyond.

Visit LeatriceEiseman.com to explore Lee’s books on colour and online training courses.

For all its opportunities, a career in real estate can be demanding.

Continuing our Working REALTOR® series, this episode highlights the importance of finding balance, not just for your health but to reconcile your hard work with a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

Hear from three members of the REALTOR® community who’ve made it their mission to find balance: Crystal Hung, a 2023 Canadian REALTORS Care® Award nominee and the owner of Icon&co.; Peggy Hill, broker and CEO at the Peggy Hill Team; and Darin Germyn, a REALTOR® and leader of the Germyn Group and Director-at-Large with the Canadian Real Estate Association.

Every REALTOR® needs to negotiate, whether it’s with a client, another agent, a brokerage, or otherwise. But it doesn’t need to be as stressful as it seems.

On this episode of REAL TIME, we speak with Fotini Iconomopoulos, a Fortune 500 negotiator, author, and educator whose advice you won’t soon forget. From engaging your mental pause button to psyching yourself up, get inspired to boost your competitive edge using Fotini’s unconventional principles of negotiation.

For more than five decades, Canadians have trusted Peter Mansbridge to guide them through countless political, economic, and cultural events that have shaped our nation. He’s one of Canada’s most respected and recognizable figures, having spent 30 years as CBC News’ chief correspondent and anchor of The National.

On this episode of REAL TIME, Peter helps us understand why, how, and where we’ve deviated from trust and truth – all through his unique journalistic lens – and how Canadians can respond.

On this episode of REAL TIME, we’re joined by George Mumford, AKA the “Performance Whisperer.” George is a pioneer in sports psychology and performance coaching, and is globally renowned for his liberating perspectives on mindfulness and flow.

Throughout his career, he’s worked with an all-star roster of clients including Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant, and now, he’s bringing his expertise to REAL TIME to help REALTORS® elevate their game in business and life.

So, you’re starting to build a name for yourself as a REALTOR®, but how do you propel your already solid foundation to new heights of success?

Continuing our Working REALTOR® series, this episode shares tips, strategies, and lessons learned to help you continue building a successful real estate career, at any phase.

Hear from three REALTORS® from across the country: Ruth Alexander from Calgary, Alberta, Nene Akintan from Oakville, Ontario, and Steve Saretsky from Vancouver, British Columbia.

Customer support, content creation, social media sentiment analysis – artificial intelligence (AI) presents a world of business potential for REALTORS®. But how do you know what’s right for you?

On this episode of REAL TIME, we have the privilege of hearing from Sharon Tehrani, one of CBC’s data and machine learning product leaders. We look at the opportunities and risks of incorporating AI into your business, where to start (and how to do so responsibly), and the skills you should sharpen to maximize its impact.

With research showing Canadians want to live more sustainably, businesses big and small have an opportunity to deliver a new form of value. On this episode of REAL TIME, Geoffrey Macdonald, CFO of IKEA Canada, shares advice to help REALTORS® support their clients’ sustainability journeys, operate more sustainably themselves, and be as authentic as possible on their path to positive change.

Thinking about a career in real estate? Want to build your name as a REALTOR®? While there’s no universal formula for success, there’s a lot to learn from the people behind the profession. This month, we get up close and personal with two REALTORS® for the first episode in our new series, exploring the world of the working REALTOR®.

Edmonton-based James Mabey, CREA’s Chair-Elect, and Halifax-based Chris Peters, CREA’s Regional Director (Atlantic), reflect on how they got their start in the industry and share lessons learned.

On this special episode of REAL TIME, live-recorded at the Canadian Real Estate Association’s (CREA) 2023 Leadership Summit, we’re joined by Lital Marom, a globally recognized thought leader, entrepreneur, innovation strategist, and business visionary.

Lital has spoken at industry conferences worldwide, inspiring organizations to “disrupt themselves” and unlock their potential in the new, exponential economy. She’s a trailblazer on topics ranging from digital transformation and emerging technologies to workplace culture and agile leadership.

On this episode, Lital focuses on how organizations can reimagine themselves through mindset shifts, the power of data, exploring new business models, and more.

Each year, REALTOR.ca generates more than five million leads for REALTORS® across Canada. Developed and operated by the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) on behalf of its REALTOR® members, it’s the country’s most popular and trusted real estate platform. As technology advances, however, and new contenders enter the market, it’s critical REALTOR.ca secures its relevance for the future.

On this episode of REAL TIME, we explore the future of Canada’s real estate landscape as well as the vision behind shifting REALTOR.ca from a not-for-profit, association-driven product to a wholly owned, for-profit subsidiary of CREA.

Ultimately, we look at how this shift will expand the platform’s potential to keep REALTORS® at the heart of the real estate transaction.

Guests include Jill Oudil, CREA Chair, Patrick Pichette, VP of REALTOR.ca, and Andrew Jackson, Head of Business Development at CREA.

In a hyper-digital world, savvy brands are finding success tapping into and nurturing online communities. On this episode, Shannae Ingleton Smith joins REAL TIME to help REALTORS® find and build a niche of their own, true to their personal and professional brand.

Shannae, President, CEO, and Co-Founder of Kensington Grey, a boutique influencer agency rooted in diversity, is an expert in content creation and brand storytelling. In addition to “finding your people” and building a niche, she also talks about how to portray your authenticity online, make the most of each platform, and strike a balance between creating your own content and having others, like influencers or clients, champion your brand for you.

While Canada’s housing market has felt like a roller coaster over the last few years, 2023 might be the year it turns a corner. Slowly.

On Episode 34 of REAL TIME, we’re joined by Shaun Cathcart, Director and Senior Economist, Housing Data and Market Analysis, at the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA). Shaun takes a step back to help REALTORS® and their clients look forward, painting a picture of Canada’s housing market pre-pandemic, how it changed, and what the data can tell us about the future.

At times, the phrase “business innovation” can feel as amorphous as any other buzzword: what does it mean, and what’s the opportunity for REALTORS®?

On Episode 33 of REAL TIME, researcher, keynote speaker, and one of The Globe and Mail’s top changemakers of 2022, Dr. Chitra Anand, explores the many ways in which REALTORS® can innovate. She also unpacks an important new movement in the workplace: intrapreneurship.

Learn how you can foster an intrapreneurial spirit to challenge the norm, spur new ideas, and continue building trust through value-added solutions. Dr. Anand breaks it all down, including how to focus your efforts for the greatest impact if you’re a smaller business with limited resources.

As part of REALTORS Care® Week 2022, we’re joined by Chris Jarvis, co-founder of Realized Worth. At Realized Worth, Chris designs volunteering strategies to help businesses drive engagement, retention, inclusivity, and stronger relationships with their communities.

On Episode 32 of REAL TIME, Chris helps us understand how we can reprogram our brains to feel empathy for groups with whom we don’t identify. By breaking down barriers, and adopting a transformative approach to volunteering, it can help us see the world with a fresh perspective.

Episode Resources

1. Realized Worth

2. Invisible People

3. The RW Institute

4. The Brain, Episode 5: Why Do I Need You?

Canada frequently ranks as the best country in the world for its quality of life, but what does it mean to live in Canada? How does the Canadian experience differ among subsets of the population? And what social, cultural, or lifestyle trends might be impacting Canadians’ real estate decisions?

On Episode 31 of REAL TIME, we’re joined by Canadian media figure Lainey Lui, ETALK correspondent and co-host of The Social. Known for her sociological perspective on the value of pop culture, Lainey joins REAL TIME to put the Canadian experience under the microscope.

Over the last few years some industries have experienced a labour shortage while others have seen an increase. As the workforce continues to evolve, creating a culture that employees value is critical to attracting and keeping the right talent, and driving your business forward.

On Episode 30 of REAL TIME, we’re joined by Neil Thornton, President of the Thornton Group, to help REALTORS® and brokers, regardless of their role on a team, strengthen their leadership, coaching, and engagement skills. Gain insight on how to build a strong team culture anchored in a shared vision.

Historically, real estate has been a referral business, with business development driven by reputation. So, in an industry where word-of-mouth is your strongest marketing tool, how does modern marketing fit in?

On Episode 29 of REAL TIME, we’re joined by Priyanka Goswami, Executive Vice President of One-to-One and Customer Experience at award-winning creative agency No Fixed Address.

Priyanka joins REAL TIME to offer insights on how REALTORS® can take a focused approach to marketing their business, building a strategy that includes first-party data, personalization, success metrics, and more.

We might be living in a digital age, but a career in real estate is personal.

On Episode 28 of REAL TIME, we’re joined by James Duthie, Canada’s favourite sportscaster, to explore one of the most personal tools of the real estate trade: conversation.

Hear James’ approach to sparking meaningful conversations at work and in life – with examples from throughout his career (the good and bad).

From breaking the ice to broaching sensitive topics, learn how REALTORS® can use conversation to build stronger relationships with their clients.

On Episode 27 of REAL TIME, we’re joined by Newfoundland and Labrador-born, Norway-based architect Todd Saunders, best known for his iconic design of the Fogo Island Inn and studios.

A Canadian architect with a global presence, Todd shares his unique perspective on the relationship between architecture and the ways in which we live in, interact with, or appreciate a place.

Todd also shares his personal story defining a new vision for architecture as well the importance of building strong, trustworthy relationships with clients.

Dr. Raj Bhatla is Psychiatrist-in-Chief at The Royal Mental Health Centre in Ottawa, one of Canada’s foremost mental health care, teaching, and research hospitals.

Ron Antalek is a REALTOR^® in Maple Ridge, British Columbia with more than 30 years’ experience, a mental health advocate, and the recipient of the Canadian REALTORS Care^® Award 2020.

On Episode 26, Dr. Bhatla and Ron join REAL TIME in support of Mental Health Week 2022.

Aligning with this year’s theme of empathy, they explore various topics surrounding mental health including destigmatization, mental health in the workplace, the vulnerability of REALTORS^®, and how to support one another through compassion and understanding.

In the mid-90s, the Internet ushered in a new era in how consumers buy and sell real estate. Today, one platform is more popular than any other in Canada.

So, how did we get here? And what’s next?

On Episode 25 of REAL TIME, we’re joined by Patrick Pichette, Vice President of REALTOR.ca, and Andrew Jackson, Head of Business Development at the Canadian Real Estate Association. We explore the evolution of listing sites and how REALTOR.ca has staked its claim as a leading platform beyond listings.

We also discuss the future of Canadian real estate, new innovations on the horizon, and REALTOR.ca’s trajectory to further support REALTORS® and their clients.

“We’ve accelerated into the future by at least a decade.”

The pandemic has pushed us further and faster into a digital-first economy. In an industry like real estate, where trust and human interaction are paramount, what’s the impact of this digitalization? More importantly, what can REALTORS® expect as technologies like artificial intelligence, augmented reality, and the metaverse continue to gain traction?

On Episode 24 of REAL TIME, we’re joined by futurist Sinead Bovell, the model who talks tech, to explore the pros and cons of a society that increasingly engages, transacts, and communicates through technology.

Today’s leaders are being tested.

From emerging technology and shifting employee values to uncertainty introduced by the pandemic, the workplace is changing. And leaders are changing with it.

So, what does it mean to be a leader today? And how do we prepare for tomorrow?

On Episode 23 of REAL TIME, global speaker and author Hamza Khan shares his unique perspective on the future of work. Learn how leaders can take care of their teams, businesses, and themselves – and how REALTORS^® can be seen as leaders in their field.

Whether it’s our salaries or family dinners, negotiating is part of daily life. For REALTORS^®, it’s fundamental to their business.

On Episode 22 of REAL TIME, we’re joined by Wes Hall, one of North America’s most influential business leaders, to wrap up the year with some practical knowledge and inspiring stories.

Wes shares his journey from humble beginnings in Jamaica to Bay Street in Toronto, and how negotiation was foundational to his success. As the newest dragon on Dragons’ Den, he also shares tips for staying grounded as an entrepreneur.

From knowing your audience to knowing your worth, gain insight to help build your skills as a negotiator and an advisor.

During the first year of his family medicine residency, Dr. Naheed Dosani experienced a devastating and life-changing event: one of his patients passed away.

That patient, Terry, had lived on the streets for 15 years, had terminal cancer, and was repeatedly refused access to proper palliative care. It was too little too late.

Deeply affected by Terry’s loss, Dr. Dosani realized that while we all have equal access to healthcare in Canada, it doesn’t mean we have equitable access. And so he pledged to inspire change.

To complement REALTORS Care^® Week 2021, we join Dr. Dosani to gain a front-line perspective of the inequities facing homeless, poor, and vulnerably-housed Canadians. We look at housing as a healthcare issue, how we can cure it through policy, and how we can tap into our own vulnerability to ensure no one has to fall through the cracks.

What’s cost-effective, functional yet invisible, and has the power to improve homeowner safety and strengthen communities?

Universal Design: an approach to designing spaces that are inclusive and equitable for all.

On Episode 20 of REAL TIME, we speak with Brad McCannell, Vice President of Access and Inclusion at the Rick Hansen Foundation, to explore the personal, societal, and financial value of adopting Universal Design practices in both our homes and shared spaces.

Canadians have had their say in Canada’s 44th federal election, ushering in a new Liberal minority government. What led to this result and what does it mean for Canadians?

On Episode 19 of REAL TIME, we’re joined by one of Canada’s most prolific political journalists and commentators, Chantal Hébert. Join us as we unpack the election’s political implications for Canada’s housing crisis, including the newly-elected government’s housing promises, and how all parties might align to support a more accessible and sustainable housing sector.

Vacation properties have been around for decades, but their popularity has sky-rocketed over the last few years. What’s driving that trend, and how is it changing the current market?

Heather Bayer, co-founder of Vacation Rental Formula, joins us for a deep dive into the dos and don’ts of vacation property investment, how the sharing economy has affected the way vacation rental businesses operate, and the responsibilities all owners have to their guests and neighbours.

From helping your clients find their own vacation property, to what the next year may hold, Episode 18 of REAL TIME is a must-listen for the latest trends and insights.

We might think we know what characteristics define each generation, even when it comes to real estate. Baby Boomers are downsizing, Millennials can’t afford to break into the market, Gen Z are tech obsessed, and Gen X… who are Gen X again? But are any of these prevailing notions true, or are they just stereotypes?

In this special episode of REAL TIME, we talk to four REALTORS® from across the country about their experiences with clients of all ages and how each generation is navigating and redefining the landscape. First, we chat Gen X and Gen Z trends with Davelle Morrison and Austin Titus. Later, we explore what’s hot in real estate for Baby Boomers and Millennials with Rob Marland and Tanya Eklund.

From career uncertainty to work-life balance to interpersonal conflict, there’s no shortage of challenges facing today’s professionals. In Episode 16 of REAL TIME, we explore the latest thinking in industrial and organizational psychology to help professionals set themselves up for success.

Discover an insightful conversation with Dr. Winny Shen, Associate Professor of Organization Studies at York University, as she shares techniques for REALTORS^® – and all professionals – to gain a mental edge by better managing stress, strengthening their work relationships, embracing mentorship opportunities, and more.

From autonomous vehicles to on-demand everything, technology has woven itself into the fabric of our lives. But what about its impact on the real estate industry? And, more importantly, what’s next?

In Episode 15 of REAL TIME, futurist and real estate thought leader Nikki Greenberg explains the breakthroughs and benefits of a rapidly evolving trend: property tech. Learn what prop-tech is, its potential to modernize residential and commercial development, and how it’s redefining the ways in which we interact with our homes, office spaces, and more.

Investing in real estate for the first time can be equal parts exciting and intimidating. And for some, it can feel like a distant dream.

In episode 14 of REAL TIME, author, mentor, former TV host and Broker/Owner Sandra Rinomato tells us how to turn that dream into a reality.

What fears or misconceptions are holding first-time buyers back? What should REALTORS^® do differently with new buyers? Sandra shares her advice to help break down the process and get to the root of the first-time buyer’s needs, providing actionable tips along the way.

What is the relationship between our homes and our mental and physical well-being? Are there changes we can make to infuse a greater sense of joy into our living spaces? How can we reimagine the things we already have to elevate our homes aesthetically and functionally?

In Episode 13 of REAL TIME, designer and TV host Tiffany Pratt talks about connecting more deeply with our homes to improve well-being and live a beautiful life, no matter what ‘beautiful’ means to you. Because in her words – be it through colour, texture or personal items that invigorate our spirit – “our homes should make us feel something.”

“You have to be part of changing the culture. If you want racist speech or actions to be unacceptable, you have to be one of the people saying it’s unacceptable.”

In Episode 12 of REAL TIME, we discuss racial biases and opportunity gaps facing BIPOC professionals in Canada. Joined by Dr. Hadiya Roderique – speaker, researcher and author of the viral article “Black on Bay Street'' – we look at ways to address racism in the workplace and other interpersonal settings. How do we recognize it? What does it mean to be an ally? How do we improve to be more diverse and inclusive?

Join us for a critical conversation with input from REALTORS^® who’ve experienced racism or bias firsthand – and their advice on how we can do better.

Last year, the COVID-19 pandemic quickly underscored the importance of “home” as refuge. As a result, Canadians started making their homes a larger priority, as demonstrated via record home sales, shifts in the types of homes purchased and a boom in home renovations.

Listen in as we discuss this change with Canadian designer, artist and TV host, Steven Sabados, and further explore ways we can make the most of our homes in 2021.

2020 has been an unprecedented year in almost every regard.

In this episode of REAL TIME, we discuss the impact COVID-19 had on Canadians, how housing markets responded, how REALTORS^® have adapted and what it all means moving forward. Join us as we dive deeper into these topics with insights from industry experts David Coletto (CEO, Abacus Data) and our own Patrick Pichette (VP, REALTOR.ca) and Shaun Cathcart (Senior Economist).

More than 35,000 Canadians experience homelessness every day.

In recognition of this, and to complement REALTORS Care^® Week 2020, we’re joined by Jesse Thistle, Métis-Cree author of From the Ashes and assistant professor at York University. Learn about Jesse’s personal experience with homelessness, how he’s become a leading voice for the issue, and what REALTORS^® – and all Canadians – can do to help end and prevent homelessness on both a local and national level.

In Episode 8 of REAL TIME, popular personal finance expert and award-winning author Kelley Keehn discusses the financial concerns and realities facing many Canadians today, including homeowners and prospective home buyers. Discover tips and tools for REALTORS^® to help your clients assess and strengthen their financial health, even in unstable times.

In Episode 7 of REAL TIME, award-winning designer, best-selling author and TV icon Sarah Richardson shares lessons learned during an incredibly successful career buying and designing homes – everything from the value of using a REALTOR^® to making the most of your space on any budget.

In Episode 6 of REAL TIME, we talk with Subtej Nijjar – President, Canada, at Mosaic North America and former partner at Union Creative, the agency behind CREA’s national ad campaigns – about methodologies REALTORS^® can employ to better understand their audience, position themselves strategically and stay relevant in periods of change and a hypercompetitive industry.

In Episode 5 of REAL TIME, we’ll join Riti Verma, real estate entrepreneur and CEO of RankMyAgent.com—with input from REALTOR^® Ben Sweet—to discuss the importance of managing your online reputation as a REALTOR^®. We’ll look at the impacts of online reviews, tips to get started, and how to ensure a positive experience to land and keep happy clients.

In response to current conditions, businesses and REALTORS^® need to react to a new world, though temporary, where human interaction is limited or discouraged. The real estate industry, built on relationships, will be significantly impacted. But within adverse conditions come opportunities and new human behaviours. For REALTORS^®, maintaining a personal connection is crucial.

The CREA REAL TIME podcast provides an opportunity to give REALTORS^® insight into how they can transform to be more adept in a digital retail environment.

Representatives from various levels within the industry provide guidance, clarity and give CREA members real world tools to implement.