As part of the Conversations with Canadian Game Changers, an interview series with key Toronto and industry leaders, Sasha Cucuz, CEO of Greybrook Securities Inc., joined Simon Mass, Founder and CEO of the Condo Store Group of Companies, to discuss the current state of development and the real estate market in Toronto and Miami.
Watch the full episode belowConversations with Canadian Game Changers is an interview series with key Toronto and industry leaders hosted by Simon Mass. With over 26 years of real estate investment and asset management experience, Simon is a leading player in the pre-construction condominium space and has amassed over $25 billion during his tenure as CEO of The Condo Store Group of Companies.The conversation provided valuable insights into the factors that have made Toronto a thriving city and the promising future of real estate in Miami.
The discussion started with Sasha acknowledging Toronto’s remarkable journey over the past two decades, attributing its success to its multicultural and diverse population. He believes this diversity, combined with Canada’s offering of opportunities and social stability, has been a driving force behind the city’s appeal. Toronto has become a global destination for those seeking a high quality of life, rich cultural experiences, and a welcoming environment.
Sasha and Simon discussed the challenges Toronto faces with respect to housing affordability and the housing shortage. Sasha emphasizes that this issue extends beyond being unaffordable; it has reached a point where it’s unattainable for many. To ensure Toronto’s growth and diversity continue, it is imperative to address these challenges head-on.
Sasha highlighted the importance of viewing real estate as a long-term investment. He drew a distinction between investors and speculators, emphasizing that real estate inherently operates as a long-term asset class. He explained that real estate, by nature, is a long-term asset class, and investors play a pivotal role in the market by servicing the rental pool, a crucial element in Toronto’s housing ecosystem.
Switching from Canadian real estate to the U.S., Sasha and Simon discussed Greybrook’s entry into the Miami market with projects like Waldorf Astoria Hotel and Residences Miami, The Elser Hotel and Residences Miami, and Society Wynwood. The pair discussed the unique appeal of the Miami market, including its connection to South American markets, a significant Spanish-speaking influence, business-friendly policies, low taxation rates, and desirable weather. Since we began investing in South Florida, we have watched the region grow with stronger market fundamentals, a surge in the number of businesses, and population growth driven by both migration and immigration.
Sasha’s perspective on both markets offers a glimpse into the opportunities and challenges in the real estate industry, emphasizing the importance of informed decision-making and long-term investment strategies.
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