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Although many perceive real estate as a male-dominated business, the National Association of Realtors’ most recent member survey showed the majority of the nation’s Realtors are women (65 percent) — and their presence is poised to keep growing as the Great Resignation inspires more women to find success in the industry.
Despite outnumbering their male counterparts, leading real estate brokers Katie Kossev, Jessica Edwards, and Kye Sampson said women still have a tough climb up the entrepreneurial ladder, thanks to stereotypes regarding women’s business acumen and the challenge of successfully balancing work and family.
Katie Kossev
“I think a lot of us got into the business because we thought this career path would give us the flexibility to spend more time with our family and go on trips, and just some extra money here and there,” said Kossev, who moderated the session. “And then we got good at it, right? Sometimes [our job] completely dominates [our] life, and vacations and spending time with [our families] may go to the wayside accidentally because we are so deeply enthralled in what we do.”
Edwards and Sampson said they’ve grappled with maintaining flexibility over the years, especially after getting married and becoming mothers. Both women said they’ve had to leave the dinner table to answer frantic phone calls from clients, make other arrangements for their children to be picked up from school, or attend events late.
“I think there can be some flexibility in real estate, depending on what you want to get out of it,” Sampson said. “If you’re in a leadership role, you may have to step away from that dinner and you might have to take a call.”
However, both panelists said the coronavirus offered the precious opportunity to slow down, rethink their priorities and create a business structure that enables them to maintain a high level of service to their clients while reserving time to fully enjoy the fruits of their labor.
“Success is having that peace of mind and that happiness across the board. It’s about life balance,” Edwards said. “COVID, for me, had some positives to it. Myself and my team members, we’re all moms. I think it was interesting to be able to have things slow down a bit and spend more time with kids and realize, ‘Oh, you know, I can pick them up from school.’”
“Sometimes it’s a constant challenge, depending on what’s going on,” she added. “But it just really [comes down to] scheduling and really planning things out to the best of your ability and of course, that doesn’t always work.”
Kye Sampson
Beyond daily scheduling and planning, Sampson said she’s learned to embrace the natural ebb and flow of life and adjust her business approach to complement her family’s needs.
“I have a three-year-old and I had a full team prior. After I had my kid, I let my team down. I scaled back because I wanted to spend more time with my kid,” she said. “Now that he’s three and a half [and going] to school, I restarted my team. So I think it’s all about scheduling and [determining] what you are trying to get out of it. So I don’t know if there’s ever a complete balance.”
Although being a woman in real estate has its challenges, Kossev, Edwards and Sampson said they’ve learned to wield their strengths as women, especially when it comes to mastering multitasking and using emotional intelligence to connect with current and potential buyers and sellers.
“I think some women may not want to hear this, but we’re able to view the emotional side of things,” Edwards said. “I think women [aren’t] necessarily more emotional overall, but maybe we’re just more in tune with emotions and buying or selling a home, especially right now, is an emotional process. It always is.”
Jessica Edwards
“For buyers [with] multiple offers missing out, it can be frustrating,” she added. “Having that nurturing side or being able to have that calmness and be in tune with our clients’ emotions is a huge piece to [the] women versus men [debate], if you will.”
Meanwhile, Sampson highlighted women’s ability to multitask and pay attention to details as a valuable asset that some people may undervalue. “As women, we’re so used to wearing so many different hats,” she said. “We also have our attention to detail.”
Now that the market has reached a fever pitch leading into spring, both women said there’s pressure to jump on the latest trends and begin overpacking their schedules again. “I think video is so important, but TikTok reels are not for everyone,” Edwards laughingly said of the temptation to be present on every platform.
Simpson agreed and chimed in, “It’s about being intentional [and] you don’t have to compete with everyone online. If you don’t like to be in front of the camera, maybe start touring the houses and recording the houses instead of being on camera.”
Finally, all three women encouraged session viewers — especially their fellow women — to remain nimble, reject fear and embrace changes in their personal and business lives.
“I had a conversation with somebody a couple of months ago and it was a lightbulb moment. It was it’s okay that maybe your business and life and everything doesn’t look like it did before COVID,” Edwards said. “I think it’s okay if you don’t feel that intensity like you used to. It’s [about] accepting it and then channeling that into how you’re going to work differently and what it’s going to look like.”
MONTREAL – Two Quebec real estate brokers are facing fines and years-long suspensions for submitting bogus offers on homes to drive up prices during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Christine Girouard has been suspended for 14 years and her business partner, Jonathan Dauphinais-Fortin, has been suspended for nine years after Quebec’s authority of real estate brokerage found they used fake bids to get buyers to raise their offers.
Girouard is a well-known broker who previously starred on a Quebec reality show that follows top real estate agents in the province.
She is facing a fine of $50,000, while Dauphinais-Fortin has been fined $10,000.
The two brokers were suspended in May 2023 after La Presse published an article about their practices.
One buyer ended up paying $40,000 more than his initial offer in 2022 after Girouard and Dauphinais-Fortin concocted a second bid on the house he wanted to buy.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 11, 2024.
MONTREAL – The Quebec Professional Association of Real Estate Brokers says Montreal-area home sales rose 9.3 per cent in August compared with the same month last year, with levels slightly higher than the historical average for this time of year.
The association says home sales in the region totalled 2,991 for the month, up from 2,737 in August 2023.
The median price for all housing types was up year-over-year, led by a six per cent increase for the price of a plex at $763,000 last month.
The median price for a single-family home rose 5.2 per cent to $590,000 and the median price for a condominium rose 4.4 per cent to $407,100.
QPAREB market analysis director Charles Brant says the strength of the Montreal resale market contrasts with declines in many other Canadian cities struggling with higher levels of household debt, lower savings and diminishing purchasing power.
Active listings for August jumped 18 per cent compared with a year earlier to 17,200, while new listings rose 1.7 per cent to 4,840.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 6, 2024.
In the quest to find cities where renters can enjoy the best of all worlds, a recent study analyzed 24 metrics across three key categories—Housing & Economy, Quality of Life, and Community. The study ranked the 100 largest cities in Canada to determine which ones offer the most to their renters.
Here are the top 10 cities that emerged as the best for renters in 2024:
St. John’s, NL
St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, stand out as the top city for renters in Canada for 2024. Known for its vibrant cultural scene, stunning natural beauty, and welcoming community, St. John’s offers an exceptional quality of life. The city boasts affordable housing, a robust economy, and low unemployment rates, making it an attractive option for those seeking a balanced and enriching living experience. Its rich history, picturesque harbour, and dynamic arts scene further enhance its appeal, ensuring that renters can enjoy both comfort and excitement in this charming coastal city.
Sherbrooke, QC
Sherbrooke, Quebec, emerges as a leading city for renters in Canada for 2024, offering a blend of affordability and quality of life. Nestled in the heart of the Eastern Townships, Sherbrooke is known for its picturesque landscapes, vibrant cultural scene, and strong community spirit. The city provides affordable rental options, low living costs, and a thriving local economy, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both comfort and economic stability. With its rich history, numerous parks, and dynamic arts and education sectors, Sherbrooke presents an inviting environment for renters looking for a well-rounded lifestyle.
Québec City, QC
Québec City, the capital of Quebec, stands out as a premier destination for renters in Canada for 2024. Known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural heritage, this city offers an exceptional quality of life. Renters benefit from affordable housing, excellent public services, and a robust economy. The city’s charming streets, historic sites, and diverse culinary scene provide a unique living experience. With top-notch education institutions, numerous parks, and a strong sense of community, Québec City is an ideal choice for those seeking a dynamic and fulfilling lifestyle.
Trois-Rivières, QC
Trois-Rivières, nestled between Montreal and Quebec City, emerges as a top choice for renters in Canada. This historic city, known for its picturesque riverside views and rich cultural scene, offers an appealing blend of affordability and quality of life. Renters in Trois-Rivières enjoy reasonable housing costs, a low unemployment rate, and a vibrant community atmosphere. The city’s well-preserved historic sites, bustling arts community, and excellent educational institutions make it an attractive destination for those seeking a balanced and enriching lifestyle.
Saguenay, QC
Saguenay, located in the stunning Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region of Quebec, is a prime destination for renters seeking affordable living amidst breathtaking natural beauty. Known for its picturesque fjords and vibrant cultural scene, Saguenay offers residents a high quality of life with lower housing costs compared to major urban centers. The city boasts a strong sense of community, excellent recreational opportunities, and a growing economy. For those looking to combine affordability with a rich cultural and natural environment, Saguenay stands out as an ideal choice.
Granby, QC
Granby, nestled in the heart of Quebec’s Eastern Townships, offers renters a delightful blend of small-town charm and ample opportunities. Known for its beautiful parks, vibrant cultural scene, and family-friendly environment, Granby provides an exceptional quality of life. The city’s affordable housing market and strong sense of community make it an attractive option for those seeking a peaceful yet dynamic place to live. With its renowned zoo, bustling downtown, and numerous outdoor activities, Granby is a hidden gem that caters to a diverse range of lifestyles.
Fredericton, NB
Fredericton, the capital city of New Brunswick, offers renters a harmonious blend of historical charm and modern amenities. Known for its vibrant arts scene, beautiful riverfront, and welcoming community, Fredericton provides an excellent quality of life. The city boasts affordable housing options, scenic parks, and a strong educational presence with institutions like the University of New Brunswick. Its rich cultural heritage, coupled with a thriving local economy, makes Fredericton an attractive destination for those seeking a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.
Saint John, NB
Saint John, New Brunswick’s largest city, is a coastal gem known for its stunning waterfront and rich heritage. Nestled on the Bay of Fundy, it offers renters an affordable cost of living with a unique blend of historic architecture and modern conveniences. The city’s vibrant uptown area is bustling with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, while its scenic parks and outdoor spaces provide ample opportunities for recreation. Saint John’s strong sense of community and economic growth make it an inviting place for those looking to enjoy both urban and natural beauty.
Saint-Hyacinthe, QC
Saint-Hyacinthe, located in the Montérégie region of Quebec, is a vibrant city known for its strong agricultural roots and innovative spirit. Often referred to as the “Agricultural Technopolis,” it is home to numerous research centers and educational institutions. Renters in Saint-Hyacinthe benefit from a high quality of life with access to excellent local amenities, including parks, cultural events, and a thriving local food scene. The city’s affordable housing and close-knit community atmosphere make it an attractive option for those seeking a balanced and enriching lifestyle.
Lévis, QC
Lévis, located on the southern shore of the St. Lawrence River across from Quebec City, offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern conveniences. Known for its picturesque views and well-preserved heritage sites, Lévis is a city where history meets contemporary living. Residents enjoy a high quality of life with excellent public services, green spaces, and cultural activities. The city’s affordable housing options and strong sense of community make it a desirable place for renters looking for both tranquility and easy access to urban amenities.
This category looked at factors such as average rent, housing costs, rental availability, and unemployment rates. Québec stood out with 10 cities ranking at the top, demonstrating strong economic stability and affordable housing options, which are critical for renters looking for cost-effective living conditions.
Québec again led the pack in this category, with five cities in the top 10. Ontario followed closely with three cities. British Columbia excelled in walkability, with four cities achieving the highest walk scores, while Caledon topped the list for its extensive green spaces. These factors contribute significantly to the overall quality of life, making these cities attractive for renters.
Victoria, BC, emerged as the leader in this category due to its rich array of restaurants, museums, and educational institutions, offering a vibrant community life. St. John’s, NL, and Vancouver, BC, also ranked highly. Québec City, QC, and Lévis, QC, scored the highest in life satisfaction, reflecting a strong sense of community and well-being. Additionally, Saskatoon, SK, and Oshawa, ON, were noted for having residents with lower stress levels.
For a comprehensive view of the rankings and detailed interactive visuals, you can visit the full study by Point2Homes.
While no city can provide a perfect living experience for every renter, the cities highlighted in this study come remarkably close by excelling in key areas such as housing affordability, quality of life, and community engagement. These findings offer valuable insights for renters seeking the best places to live in Canada in 2024.
