Golden Horseshoe Real Estate Podcast

S02 20 | First-Time Buyers Are Trading Townhomes for Fixer-Uppers to Build Wealth | Claudia Tersigni

Koukun Unosawa — Thu, 11 Jun 2026 14:00:00 +0100

She was widowed at 29, raising a four-month-old and a toddler, with zero safety net and zero blueprint. Yet Claudia Tersigni of eXp Realty turned raw grief into nine personally renovated homes and a thriving real estate career built entirely on vision, grit, and a strategy the mainstream market refuses to talk about. The live-in flip is not just a wealth tactic. It is a survival tool for first-time buyers, single parents, and smart investors who refuse to let the housing market price them out of a bigger life.

📐 The Live-In Flip Blueprint: Who Should Do It and Who Should Walk Away
💡 Sweat Equity Unlocked: How First-Time Buyers Are Outplaying Turnkey Buyers Right Now
🏡 Selling in a Down Market: The Buffer Strategy That Protected a Six-Figure Investment
🧭 Nine Homes, One Vision: The Real Story Behind Grief, Growth and Generational Wealth

You can get in touch with Claudia Tersigni here on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/claudia-tersigni-55a4b454/
Website: https://claudiatersigni.exprealty.com/
🗓️ Book an intro call with me: https://calendly.com/koukun_unosawa/intro-call15?month=2026-01
📱 Text/call/email Me Directly - 289.301.7679 / mortgage@koukun.ca
👋 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/koukun.unosawa/

S0219 | Real Estate Upsizing Failures Start Before the Home Search | Kristen Beneteau & Jordan Coons

Koukun Unosawa — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 14:00:00 +0100

Most families upsize by reacting. Kristen Beneteau and Jordan Coons of eXp Realty built an entire business around making sure yours never has to. These two Niagara based real estate professionals turned an organic accountability partnership into one of the most client trusted teams in the region, and in this episode they pull back the curtain on the exact framework growing families need before they ever list a single square foot. From kitchen table strategy sessions to navigating sale of property conditions, relocation clauses, bridge financing and the brutal truth about pricing in a declining market, this is the real estate conversation nobody else is having with this level of honesty.
📋 What You Will Explore
🏡 The Upsizing Blueprint That Eliminates Chaos
Proven pre market strategy that protects families under pressure
⚖️ Buy First or Sell First: The Risk Assessment Decoded
How top agents map every scenario before you sign anything
💡 The Pricing Truth That Quietly Costs Sellers Thousands
Why chasing the top dollar is the most expensive mistake in 2025
🤝 The Organic Partnership Formula Behind a Trusted Real Estate Team
Shared values, complementary strengths and a business built to last

🗓️ Book an intro call with me: https://calendly.com/koukun_unosawa/intro-call15?month=2026-01
📱 Text/call/email Me Directly - 289.301.7679 / mortgage@koukun.ca
👋 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/koukun.unosawa/

S02 18 | First Time Homebuyers Are Winning Again : Real Estate Prices Reset in 2026 | Tony Gigliotti

Koukun Unosawa — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 14:00:00 +0100

He walked into a real estate office at 21 with zero knowledge, no connections, and a broken neck from a car crash that ended his engineering dream. Forty years later, Tony Gigliotti of RE/MAX Escarpment has helped hundreds of families in Niagara build generational wealth through one of the most powerful and misunderstood assets of our time.
Right now, first time home buyers in Canada carry a hidden advantage that seasoned buyers simply cannot match. This episode shows you exactly how to use it.
🏠 The Parent Trap: When Family Advice Secretly Kills the Deal
🚗 The Car Loan Penalty: How Consumer Debt Quietly Destroys Mortgage Power
📈 Niagara vs Toronto: Why This Market Weathers Every Storm
🧠 The Compound Effect Formula: One Daily Habit Behind a 40-Year Career
You can get in touch with Tony Gigliotti here on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tony-gigliotti-b0345258/
Website: https://www.remaxescarpment.com/realtor/tonygigliotti

S02 17 | Realtors Never Feel Successful When Money Becomes Their Only Scoreboard | Jon Van Geest

Koukun Unosawa — Thu, 28 May 2026 14:00:00 +0100

Jon Van Geest, Founder of Van Geest Group with Real Broker, turned 16 years of real estate mastery, a childhood of financial scarcity, and the discipline of a jazz guitarist into one of Burlington and Waterdown's most respected real estate brands. This is not a rags to riches cliche. This is a blueprint.
🎷 Jazz to Real Estate | Delayed gratification as the ultimate cheat code
🏗️ The Custom Home Truth | What nobody tells you before you break ground
💰 Funding the Build | Creative equity strategies that beat construction loan rates
🧭 The Wheel of Life | Why overachievers burn out and how to rebalance without losing momentum
If you are a first time custom home builder, a high performing entrepreneur questioning the cost of success, or a buyer ready to move beyond the starter home, Jon's frameworks will shift how you think about property, identity, and legacy.
You can get in touch with Jon here on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-van-geest-6b88ab18/
Website: https://vangeestgroup.com/
🗓️ Book an intro call with me: https://calendly.com/koukun_unosawa/intro-call15?month=2026-01
📱 Text/call/email Me Directly - 289.301.7679 / mortgage@koukun.ca
👋 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/koukun.unosawa/

S02 16 | Top Realtors Stop Chasing Commissions & Start Lead Buyers With Logic | Justin Sawicki

Koukun Unosawa — Mon, 25 May 2026 14:00:00 +0100

From a guitar-toting 21-year-old applying to music school from an internet cafe in Thailand, to becoming the consistent top producer at one of Canada's top 1% real estate teams, Justin Sawicki of Knighton Real Estate Advisors at eXp Realty has built his entire career on one radical belief: fall in love with the process, burn the boat, and the results will follow.

If you are a first time home buyer in Hamilton, Niagara, or Burlington navigating a shifting 2026 Canadian real estate market, this episode is your unfair advantage.
🎬 The Musician Who Became a Market Maker: From stage to real estate top producer
🏠 The First Time Buyer Blueprint: What to know, what to fear, and what to ignore
📊 Reading the 2026 Market Like a Pro: Why this could be the pivot year buyers have waited for
🔑 How to Get a Deal in Any Market: Speed, preparation, and knowing what opportunity looks like
Justin brings the rare combination of coach, advisor, and straight-shooter, a realtor who will tell you not to buy if it is not the right move for you.

You can get in touch with Justin Sawicki here on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-sawicki-5931781a4/
Website: https://justin.southernontariolistings.com/
The best time to learn the market was yesterday. The second best time is right now.

S02 15 | The Future Belongs To Investors Who Act Before They Have Everything Ready | Leslie Kitchen

Koukun Unosawa — Thu, 21 May 2026 14:00:00 +0100

She survived a learning disability that held her back until grade nine, left a 22 year government career 10 years before her pension, battled breast cancer, and still built a life so free and so full that most people call it impossible. Leslie Kitchen, Real Estate Agent and Investor Coach at Rock Star Real Estate Inc., is living proof that the most extraordinary lives are built from the most painful detours.
In this deeply human and genuinely inspiring episode, Leslie Kitchen takes us from corporate hallways to network marketing stages, from her very first $229,000 Hamilton investment property still in her portfolio today, to coaching a 17 year old first time investor who had no credit card, no degree, and no roadmap, and watching him go on to help his entire family retire. This is not a highlight reel. This is the full story.
🏡 The Turning Point: Why Leslie Walked Away from a Pension to Chase Purpose
💡 Investing with No Map: How a Teenager with No Credit Built a Real Estate Legacy
🔑 The Secret System That Changed Everything: Why Local Mentorship Beats Any US Coaching Program
🌱 Personal Development as the Ultimate Investment: What No One Tells First Time Investors
If you are a first time real estate investor in Canada, a woman considering a career pivot, a professional ready to stop trading time for money, or anyone searching for proof that it is genuinely never too late to rebuild, this conversation was made specifically for you.

You can get in touch with Leslie Kitchen here on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leslie-kitchen-63b2943/
Website: https://rockstarbrokerage.com/leslie-kitchen/

S02 14 | Land Is Becoming A Luxury As City Investing Gets Oversaturated | JP Gulbis

Koukun Unosawa — Mon, 18 May 2026 14:00:00 +0100

JP Gulbis did not choose real estate. Real estate chose someone shaped by open land, horses, and a life lived far beyond city limits. Now one of Alberta's most distinctive rural property specialists, JP brings a rare authenticity to a market most agents simply do not understand from the inside out.
If you are ready to stop renting someone else's dream and start owning land that actually works for your life and your portfolio, this episode will shift how you think about rural property investment in Canada.

🎬 What You Will Explore
🐴 Roots to Revenue: How childhood shaped a rural real estate philosophy
🌾 Alberta vs Ontario: The land market divide that investors are missing
🏡 Lifestyle Meets Investment: Why rural buyers are winning long term
💰 Financing the Frontier: Navigating rural property deals like a pro

Alberta real estate, rural property investment Canada, land ownership lifestyle, JP Gulbis, rural acreage buying guide, Ontario vs Alberta property market, rural real estate agent Canada, agricultural land investment, off grid property Canada, rural lifestyle properties.
If wide open land, financial freedom, and a life built on your own terms sounds like your next chapter, this conversation is your blueprint.

Connect with JP Gulbis here on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jp-gulbis-b870842a8/
LandandTitle.ca
Direct - 1-905-329-8864
Email - jpg@rockstarbrokerage.com

S02 12 | New builds look fairytales until upgrades negotiate | Daniela Mitrovic & Kathy Tsiantoulas

Koukun Unosawa — Thu, 14 May 2026 14:00:00 +0100

The new home construction market is broken and most buyers are walking in completely blind.
Daniela Mitrovic and Kathy Tsiantoulas, the powerhouse duo behind The Property Girls at RE/MAX Niagara Realty Ltd, have spent a combined 40 years navigating every corner of the Canadian real estate market. With nearly two decades selling alongside one of Niagara's most respected builders, Kenmore Homes, they have seen the industry shift, stall, and surge again. This conversation cuts straight through the noise on new home construction, the HST rebate shake-up, and the hidden truths most realtors will never tell you before you sign a contract.

What you will explore:
🏗️ The HST Removal Bombshell — What $106K Off Really Means
How the new federal HST changes are reshaping buyer power, investor returns, and builder strategy right now across Canada.
📋 Tarion Decoded — Your New Build Protection Playbook
The seven year warranty breakdown, PDI walkthroughs, deposit protection, and the one thing every new construction buyer must do before closing.
🤝 Inside the Builder Relationship — 17 Years of Hard Earned Secrets
What Kenmore Homes taught them about upgrades, model homes, lot premiums, spec builds, and why the sticker price is never the real price.
💡 The Partnership Formula That Has Lasted Decades
How a 50/50 split, no ego, and playing to each other's strengths built one of Niagara's most trusted real estate brands.
Whether you are a first time buyer, a seasoned investor watching the Canadian housing market closely, or someone finally ready to stop sitting on the sidelines, this episode hands you the roadmap.

You can get in touch with Daniela Mitrovic and Kathy Tsiantoulas :
Email: thepropertygirls@remaxniagara.ca
Daniela Direct: 905-325-1930
Kathy Direct: 905-329-5478
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathy-tsiantoulas-02b2744/
Website: https://www.thepropertygirls.ca

S02 12 | House Flipping Fails When You Rush Numbers & One Bad Deal Destroys Profits | Babar Muhammad

Koukun Unosawa — Mon, 11 May 2026 14:00:00 +0100

Babar Muhammad, Founder of Lion Crest Real Estate at eXp Realty, is rewriting the rules of real estate investing in Canada. Most people see the sold signs. Babar built the system behind them. A self-taught flipper, client-first negotiator, and one of Hamilton's most trusted real estate authorities, he doesn't just talk about wealth through property — he engineers it, one calculated deal at a time. If you think flipping houses is a shortcut to fast money, this conversation will change your mind and your strategy.
🏗️ The Three Tiers of Flipping — Which One Can You Actually Win At
From cosmetic upgrades to full structural overhauls, Babar breaks down the flip categories most investors misread entirely.
📐 The Buy Right or Lose Everything Framework
Why 90% of flips fail before the renovation even starts — and the ruthless discipline of buying 20 to 25% under market value every single time.
🤝 The Contractor Code — Loyalty, Leverage and Knowing When to Walk Away
The insider system Babar uses to build a trusted trades network that keeps timelines tight and profits protected.
🌱 The Go Giver Philosophy That Built a Real Estate Business Worth Referrals
How Babar turned a debt ridden first year into a thriving referral machine — and why patience is the only strategy that never fails.
Whether you are a first time investor, a seasoned professional exploring passive income, or someone sitting on capital wondering where to put it — this episode is your blueprint.

Connect with Babar Muhammad -
Email: babar@lioncrestrealestate.ca
Direct: 289-244-7722
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/muhmmad-babar-bb5b856a/
Website: https://lioncrestrealestate.ca

S02 E11 The Small Town Property Strategy Turning Low Cost Homes Into Big Returns | With Attila Biro

Koukun Unosawa — Thu, 07 May 2026 14:00:00 +0100

Most real estate investors are fighting over the same overpriced markets while a hidden gold mine sits untouched in Northern Ontario. Attila Biro, founder of The Biro Team at Royal LePage NRC Realty, built a 21 year career not by chasing transactions but by turning clients into lifelong friends who hand him the keys to their Portuguese condos and lakeside cottages. Now he is pulling back the curtain on a small town of 2,000 people that has a ski hill, two lakes, a hospital, a golf course and rental properties selling for under $120,000 a door with tenants lining up to pay $1,100 plus utilities every month. This is the cash flow conversation Canadian real estate did not know it was missing.
📍 From $40,000 Duplexes to 2% Monthly Returns: The Northern Ontario Investment Nobody Is Talking About
🏔️ The Hidden Town: Why This Remote Canadian Gem Beats Any Urban Market Right Now
💼 From Car Salesman at 18 to Award Winning Realtor: The No Pressure Sales Philosophy That Built a Dynasty
🔑 Family First Business Blueprint: How Attila Scaled Down to Scale Up and Win
Whether you are a first time investor priced out of Hamilton or Niagara, a seasoned landlord tired of chasing downtown cash flow that no longer exists, or someone dreaming of a cottage lifestyle without the Muskoka price tag, this episode will completely change how you see Canadian real estate investing.
You can get in touch with Attila Biro:
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/attila-biro-631630247/
Website:https://www.thebiroteam.com
Email: thebiroteam@gmail.com
Direct: 905.870.2476

S02 E10 | The Upsize Trap 2026: Families Stuck With Unsold Homes & Risky Debt | With Amanda Edridge

Koukun Unosawa — Mon, 04 May 2026 14:00:00 +0100

Amanda Edrige, Sales Representative at Revel Realty in Hamilton, has spent nearly a decade doing what most realtors are too afraid to do: tell her clients exactly what they need to hear, not what they want to hear. She calls it the nicest way to deliver a hard truth. Her clients call it the reason they keep coming back.

From building community fashion shows in Hamilton to pouring drinks at the legendary Soho House Toronto, Amanda's path to real estate was anything but conventional. And that unconventional foundation is precisely what makes her one of the most refreshingly real voices in the Canadian property market today.

What you will explore:
🏡 The Sell First Revolution - Why listing before you look is the only move that makes sense right now
🌱 Families Helping Families - How Amanda and Ryan built a team that feels like a conversation at a kitchen table
✨ From Zero to Flourishing - The honest, unglamorous and ultimately triumphant decade that built her career
📸 The Picture Day Blueprint - How to sell your home beautifully even with toddlers, dogs and pure chaos inside it
If you are a growing family in Hamilton, Stoney Creek, Binbrook or anywhere across the Greater Golden Horseshoe who is ready to upsize with confidence and finally get honest guidance from someone who has lived it, this episode was made for you.

You can get in touch with Amanda Edrige here on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandaedridge/
Website: https://revelrealty.ca/team-member/amanda-edrige/

#realestate #hamiltonrealestate #canadianrealestate #upsizing #sellfirst #housingmarket2026 #firsttimehomebuyer #familyhome #revelrealty #realestateadvice #homeselling #homebuying #realestatepodcast #hamiltonontario #ontariorealestate #realtor #growingyourfamily #realestateinvesting #housingopportunity #propertymarket #homeseller #homebuyertips #sellbeforeyoubuy #realestatetips #familymoves #realestateagent #canadianhousing #buyingahouse #sellingahouse #realestatemarketupdate #movingwithkids #firsthome #homeinspection #mortgageadvice #realestatelife #torontorealestate #hamiltonhomes #biddingwars #homeownership #realestatecoach #homebuyingprocess #housemarket #homestagingideas #realestateinvestor #propertytips #stageyourhome #interestrates #housingaffordability #realestatecommunity #womeninrealestate

S02 E09 | Selling Your Home During Split With Clarity Not Conflict | With Becky Goulet

Koukun Unosawa — Thu, 30 Apr 2026 14:00:00 +0100

The real estate industry keeps telling divorcing couples to wait until the separation agreement is signed before calling an agent. That is one of the most financially damaging pieces of advice a splitting household can follow and it is costing people thousands of dollars, months of delays, and mountains of unnecessary stress.

Becky Goulet, a top ranked real estate agent at Royal LePage NRC Realty Inc. and a number 12 producer across a brokerage of over 300 agents, is pulling back the curtain on what actually protects your biggest asset when everything else in your life is falling apart.
Becky built her edge the hard way, through advertising boardrooms, classroom teaching, and a product she launched on the Shopping Channel, before channelling every skill into real estate. Now she is one of the most trusted names in Grimsby for high conflict, high stakes property transactions.
What You Will Explore
🎬 The Divorce Listing Trap — Why most couples lose before they even list
🎬 The Two Party Strategy — How Becky keeps both sides loyal and conflict free
🎬 Referral Empire Built on Silence — Why zero billboard ads still made her top 12
🎬 Redefining the Win — The millionaire agent schedule she refused and why it worked
If you are going through a separation, advising someone who is, or simply want to work with an agent who protects your financial outcome above all else, this conversation is the one you need right now.

You can get in touch with Becky Goulet here on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/becky-goulet-008598b
Website: https://www.royallepage.ca

S02 E08 | Real estate results are driven by systems not market conditions | With Kristin Lamarre

Koukun Unosawa — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 14:00:00 +0100

The real estate industry will never tell you this , navigating a divorce while selling a home is one of the most emotionally loaded, legally complex, and financially critical decisions a person can face, and most agents are completely unprepared to handle it. The hidden truth about why hiring two separate realtors during a separation could silently destroy your sale price, scare off buyers, and cost you far more than you imagine.
Kristin Lamarre, real estate agent with RE/MAX Escarpment Realty Inc., built her career from a bartending background through COVID lockdowns into a thriving six year solo practice specialising in Hamilton, Burlington, and the Golden Horseshoe region. In this raw and deeply honest conversation, Kristin breaks down what nobody in real estate wants to admit about divorce listings, the emotional intelligence required to close them, and the uncomfortable realities of being a solo agent in one of Canada's most volatile housing markets.

🎬 From Bartender to Top Realtor: The Unlikely Origin Story
How hospitality trained Kristin for the pressure, people, and emotional chaos of real estate
🎬 The Divorce Listing Nobody Warns You About
Why two realtors on one listing signals desperation and invites lowball offers from buyers
🎬 The Communication Breakdown Behind Every Separation Sale
The one pattern Kristin sees in almost every divorce transaction and how she navigates it
🎬 Building a Solo Business Through Market Chaos
From COVID boom to rate hikes and uncertainty, what six years of seasonal anxiety actually teaches you
Whether you are going through a separation, considering a real estate career, or simply want to understand what happens behind closed doors in today's property market, this episode will change how you see the process entirely.
You can get in touch with Kristin Lamarre here on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristindores/
Website: https://www.kristinlamarre.com/

S02 E07 | Real Estate Deals Fall Apart When Expectations Don’t Match Reality | With Larry Paletta

Koukun Unosawa — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 14:00:00 +0100

The real estate industry is built on a broken system that keeps 75% of agents broke, burned out, and invisible and nearly two decades in the trenches with RE/MAX Escarpment Realty Inc. taught Larry Paletta exactly why most realtors never make it past their first five years, and what the rare ones who do are doing completely differently.
Larry Paletta is a veteran realtor, coach, and market strategist based in Hamilton, Ontario, serving buyers and sellers across Burlington, Grimsby, Stoney Creek, and the greater Escarpment region. With close to 20 years of real estate experience and a background in construction and meat packing, Larry brings a street level intelligence to every transaction that no textbook can replicate.

What you will explore in this episode:
🎬 The Uncomfortable Reality of Starting in Real Estate — Confidence, credibility and the psychology behind trust
🎬 The Hidden Truth About Buyer and Seller Psychology — Personality profiling, team dynamics and client management
🎬 The Broken Commission Mindset Killing Agent Careers — Market shifts, pricing strategy and surviving a slow market
🎬 The Industry Myth of Working Harder vs Working Smarter — CRM systems, database gold and the coaching model that changes everything
Larry breaks down why pricing beats interest rates in today's market, why most agents are chasing the wrong 20%, and how mindset collapse is the silent killer of real estate careers. He also opens up about his Reality Coaching Model built specifically for agents stuck below the six figure ceiling.

You can get in touch with Larry Paletta here on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/larrypaletta/
Website: https://realintro.com/larrypaletta

S02 E06 | Trust outperforms tactics in real estate sales every single time| With Martinus Geleynse

Koukun Unosawa — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 14:00:00 +0100

He Quit a Successful Business to Start Over.Most people won’t walk away when things are working. He did.In this episode, Martinus Geleynse breaks down the real reason he left a successful media company and how that decision led him into real estate, where he quickly built momentum, a team, and now leads a brokerage office.

Inside this episode:
The exact move that got him clients immediately (no ads, no gimmicks)
Why most agents fail—even in a hot market
What separates top performers when the market slows down
The truth about “networking” that nobody explains properly
Why integrity isn’t soft—it’s a competitive advantage

This conversation hits on something deeper too—why chasing money can keep you stuck, and what changes when you start building from clarity instead of pressure.

If you’re in real estate, business, or thinking about making a big career shift, this episode will challenge you to rethink how you grow—and what actually lasts.

S02 E05 | Priced Right Homes Still Sell Fast : Market Hype Misleads Buyers | With Ken Lampman

Koukun Unosawa — Mon, 06 Apr 2026 14:00:00 +0100

The real estate industry is full of broken myths, outdated strategies, and uncomfortable truths nobody tells first time buyers. In this powerful episode, Ken Lampman exposes the hidden reality behind buying your first home, why most people overpay, and how trusting the wrong advice can cost you everything in today’s volatile housing market.

From carpenter to Realtor at Coldwell Banker Advantage, Ken Lampman brings a raw, no nonsense perspective shaped by real life struggle, hands on experience, and hundreds of client interactions. This is not theory, this is what actually works in today’s global real estate market.

If you’re navigating real estate investing, first time home buying, mortgage rates, or housing affordability, this episode breaks down the industry myths and gives you practical, actionable strategies to win.

🎯 What you will explore:

🔹 The Brutal Truth About First Home Buying Expectations
🔹 Why Most Buyers Fail Before They Even Start
🔹 Hidden Costs, Renovation Hacks, and Smart Property Decisions
🔹 The Power of Trust, Negotiation, and Long Term Wealth Building

Ken shares real stories, negotiation tactics, and the mindset shift required to succeed in real estate investing, property buying, and financial growth. Whether you're in Canada, the US, or anywhere globally, these lessons apply.

📌 Connect with Ken Lampman:
LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/ken-lampman-963b3734b

This episode is for first time home buyers, real estate investors, entrepreneurs, and anyone tired of the industry hype and looking for real, honest guidance.

S02 E04 | Privacy & Exclusivity Are Driving the Market: A People-First Approach | Miriam Chamberlain

Koukun Unosawa — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 02:00:00 +0100

Selling a home is rarely just a transaction. It is timing, emotion, privacy, and life transitions colliding all at once and most people are not prepared for what that actually feels like.

In this episode, Miriam Chamberlain, Realtor and Founder of The Miriam Chamberlain Team with RE MAX Escarpment Realty Inc., shares a refreshingly honest perspective on what really happens behind the scenes of real estate and why some of the most effective deals never even hit the public market.
Drawing from her background in HR leadership and nearly two decades in real estate, Miriam brings a people first approach that challenges the idea that selling is just about price, listings, and exposure.

This conversation goes deeper into context, decision making, and the human side of high stakes moves.

🎯 What you will explore:
🔹 Why some homes should never go public
🔹 The real reason sellers feel overwhelmed
🔹 How “quiet listings” actually work
🔹 The power of relationships over reach

🌐 Connect with Miriam Chamberlain:
Website: http://miriamchamberlain.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/miriam-chamberlain-7858489/

S02 E03 | The Property Play That Turns Your Home Into Both Shelter & A Wealth Engine | Andrew Furry

Koukun Unosawa — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 14:00:00 +0100

The “homeownership dream” is broken… and what nobody tells you about real estate could be costing you thousands every year. From hidden income opportunities to outdated buying strategies, this episode exposes the uncomfortable reality behind how most people buy homes and how smart investors are quietly turning properties into wealth engines using multi generational living, rental units, and accessory dwelling strategies.

In this powerful conversation, Andrew Furry - Founding Partner at Benchmark Real Estate Group with REMAX Escarpment Realty Inc. ,breaks down the hidden truth about modern real estate.

With 14+ years of experience, Andrew shares how the industry really works beyond the surface from why most real estate businesses have zero resale value to how homeowners can turn liabilities into income generating assets.

💡 You’ll discover:
• Why your home might actually be a liability
• How basement apartments can add $100K+ buying power
• The real cost of adding rental units in today’s market
• Smart strategies for house hacking and passive income
• The rise of multi generational living and why it’s exploding globally
• Practical frameworks for buying, renovating, and scaling property wealth

This episode is packed with real estate investing insights, rental income strategies, property investment tips, and housing market trends that apply globally ,whether you're a first time buyer, investor, or family planning smarter living.

Andrew Furry
905-577-1934
andrew@benchmarkrealestate.ca
https://www.instagram.com/furry_andrew/
www.benchmarkrealestate.ca

S02 E02 | Show Up, Learn Relentlessly, and Own Every Opportunity | With Chris Knighton

Koukun Unosawa — Thu, 26 Mar 2026 14:00:00 +0000

Chris Knighton, Founder and Team Leader of Knighton Real Estate Advisors with EXP Realty, reveals the uncomfortable reality of real estate success that nobody tells you. From leaving a promising hockey career in Europe to navigating commercial real estate in Houston during a recession, Chris exposes the hidden truths behind wealth creation, elite sales strategies, and building a high-performing real estate brand from zero. If you think real estate is just listings and commissions, think again—Chris breaks down the outdated strategies holding agents back and shares what it really takes to thrive globally.

In this episode, Chris walks through:
➡️ How he turned early setbacks into $300+ transaction years and built a 21-agent powerhouse
➡️ Bold sales frameworks and lead-generation hacks learned from the toughest markets
➡️ Actionable strategies to support clients through major life changes like divorce, relocation, and wealth transitions
➡️ The compound effect of grit, accountability, and showing up fully for every opportunity
➡️ Insider tactics on leveraging modern marketing, social media, and tools to dominate a saturated market

Chris Knighton
905-515-1276
chris@knightonrealestate.com
https://www.instagram.com/chris_knighton_/
www.knightonrealestate.com

S02 E01 | Reps Over Revenue Early On Creates An Unfair Long-Term Advantage | With Koukun Unosawa

Koukun Unosawa — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 14:00:00 +0000

What better way to kickstart Season 2 of the Golden Horseshoe Podcast than with a powerful collision of two industry experts who have quietly mastered different sides of the same game? This episode breaks the industry myth that real estate and mortgage are separate lanes, and exposes the hidden truth that the biggest growth comes when both worlds come together.

When Sam Abazari joins Koukun, this isn’t just a conversation. It’s a rare alignment of two professionals who have both scaled in high-pressure markets, challenged outdated strategies, and built systems that actually generate results.

From real estate investing and YouTube lead generation to mortgage conversion strategy and client psychology, this episode dives deep into how both industries mirror each other more than people realize. Different roles, same battlefield: lead quality, trust, timing, and execution.

💡 What You’ll Learn:

• Why real estate and mortgage success follow the same core principles
• The hidden truth about inbound leads vs paid lead generation
• How YouTube builds trust before the first conversation
• Scaling a business without relying on a traditional network
• What happens when the market shifts and strategies stop working
• The mindset required to rebuild during downturns
• How aligning realtor and mortgage strategy creates leverage

This episode is a masterclass in synergy. Two different paths, one shared playbook.

S01 E32 | Real Estate Insights From The Front Lines Of Rural Property Deals | With David Hildebrand

Koukun Unosawa — Thu, 12 Mar 2026 14:00:00 +0000

The glossy dream of country living often hides a broken system of assumptions about wells, septic systems, farmland financing, and agricultural realities. In this eye opening episode, David Hildebrand of RE/MAX Escarpment Realty Inc. reveals the uncomfortable reality behind rural property deals, the outdated strategies buyers still use, and the critical mistakes that can cost tens of thousands of dollars when purchasing land, farms, or acreage.

With nearly a decade in the industry and deep experience handling rural and agricultural transactions across Niagara, David breaks down what nobody tells you about country properties. From septic failures and water contamination risks to farmland valuations and lender restrictions, this conversation exposes the real mechanics of buying rural real estate and why traditional city buying strategies often fail in the countryside.

Beyond real estate tactics, David shares a powerful personal journey from international volunteering in Australia to building a career in real estate, along with lessons on negotiation, long term thinking, and balancing ambition with gratitude.

If you're interested in real estate investing, rural property buying, farmland investment, country homes, and negotiation strategies, this episode delivers practical insights most agents never explain.

S01 E31 | Real Estate Through A Woman’s Eyes: Hard Lessons & Big Wins | With Marlene Vieira Leslie

Koukun Unosawa — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 14:00:00 +0000

The real estate industry sells a glamorous myth. TV shows highlight luxury listings, fast commissions, and the illusion of effortless deals. But the hidden truth behind real estate success is far more uncomfortable. In this powerful conversation, Marlene Vieira Leslie breaks down the broken narrative around real estate careers, downsizing, and the emotional reality of selling a home. After more than two decades in the industry, she reveals what nobody tells homeowners about downsizing, the grief people experience leaving the home where they raised a family, and the unseen work agents do behind every transaction.

From climbing fences in heels during showings to cleaning crawl spaces for clients early in her career, Marlene shares the raw, unfiltered reality of building a successful real estate career. This episode dives deep into real estate strategy, housing market psychology, and the emotional decisions behind buying and selling property.

If you’re a homeowner considering downsizing, a real estate professional, or someone navigating today’s unpredictable housing market, this episode reveals the mindset and strategies that actually matter.

Direct: 905-515-0858
Email: marlenevieiraleslie@gmail.com
IG: https://www.instagram.com/marlenevieiraleslie/
Website: https://marlenevieiraleslie.rmxescarpment.com/

S01 E30 | Smart Niagara Real Estate Moves: Space, Value & A Bright Future | With Michael Sommer

Koukun Unosawa — Thu, 05 Mar 2026 14:00:00 +0000

The Canadian dream is evolving and Niagara is quietly becoming one of its most exciting chapters. In this inspiring conversation, Michael Sommer of Royal LePage Intercity Realty shares why more families, professionals, and retirees are discovering that real estate is not just about property value, it is about quality of life, community, and long term opportunity.

With a background in entrepreneurship and over a decade in real estate, Michael brings a practical and grounded perspective to today’s Ontario housing market. From building and selling a successful security technology company to helping clients relocate from the GTA to Niagara, his journey is built on smart decisions, calm strategy, and meaningful growth.

S01 E29 |Pricing Homes in a Falling Market The Ice Fishing Strategy | With Donald Porter

Koukun Unosawa — Mon, 02 Mar 2026 14:00:00 +0000

Success in real estate is not just about numbers. It is about resilience, reinvention, and building a business that serves people at their most important life moments. From overcoming financial pressure and scaling too fast to mastering automation and creating meaningful impact globally, Donald Porter shares a powerful story of growth, leadership, and purpose driven entrepreneurship in today’s evolving housing market.

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Donald Porter of Porter & Associates with REMAX Escarpment to explore what sustainable success in real estate truly looks like in 2026.

Donald opens up about transitioning from music and sales into real estate, generating 300K in his first year, navigating the COVID housing market, and using social media marketing, AI automation, and virtual assistants to build a streamlined business model. He shares how focusing on systems, efficiency, and client experience allowed him to create profitability while maintaining impact.

Beyond transactions, this conversation dives into pricing strategy, emotional intelligence in home buying and selling, senior downsizing, estate transitions, and how to guide clients through life changing decisions with clarity and care.

S01 E28 | Market Shocks That Can Make Or Break Your Property Investment | With Julia Fedak

Koukun Unosawa — Thu, 26 Feb 2026 14:00:00 +0000

The uncomfortable reality about real estate today is that most agents are stuck in an outdated strategy while the market shifts beneath their feet. In a cooling housing market filled with uncertainty, rising affordability challenges, and emotionally charged transactions, only the adaptable survive. This episode exposes the hidden truth about what it actually takes to build trust, navigate market cycles, and win in modern real estate.

In this powerful conversation, Julia Fedak, Realtor at RE/MAX Escarpment Realty Inc., shares how five completely different careers shaped her into a trusted real estate authority in Hamilton, Ontario.

From ultrasound technologist to educator, interior designer, and staging expert, Julia brings something most real estate professionals lack — deep emotional intelligence, design expertise, and negotiation strength under pressure.

S01 E27 | Seasoned Rural Property Expert With Deep Market Knowledge | With Wesley Schilstra

Koukun Unosawa — Mon, 23 Feb 2026 14:00:00 +0000

The hidden truth about rural real estate that most agents will never tell you. In today’s volatile housing market, where interest rates, land value, and financing rules are constantly shifting, buying a country property is not just a lifestyle decision. It is a high stakes financial move. Septic failures. HST surprises. Commercial lending traps. Zoning restrictions that can wipe out your plans overnight. This episode exposes the uncomfortable realities of rural property investing, farmland purchases, and small acreage homes in Canada and beyond.

In this powerful conversation, Wesley Schilstra, Broker with REMAX Escarpment Realty Inc., and leader of the Wayne Schilstra Team, breaks down what nobody tells you about buying farms, hobby farms, and country homes.

From septic systems and water sources to HST implications on 100 acre farms, Wesley shares real world insights every buyer and investor must understand.

Whether you are searching for rural real estate, farmland investment, country homes for sale, real estate investing strategies, or navigating a buyer’s market, this episode delivers practical clarity.

S01 E26 | Sell First or Buy First? The Real Estate Downsizer’s Dilemma | With SHIRZAD HAMADAMIN

Koukun Unosawa — Thu, 19 Feb 2026 14:00:00 +0000

Downsizing isn’t just a real estate move. It’s an emotional reset that exposes the hidden truth about lifestyle, legacy, and what really matters. In a market full of outdated strategies and cookie cutter advice, Shirzad Hamadamin, Team Leader at Shirzad and Associates at RE/MAX Niagara, breaks down what nobody tells you about downsizing in the Niagara real estate market.

From multi level family homes to low maintenance condo living, Shirzad reveals why downsizing is rarely about square footage and always about clarity. Retirement planning, mobility challenges, financial freedom, snowbird lifestyle, and estate planning all collide in one decision.

With nearly a decade in residential real estate and a powerful immigrant journey from Northern Iraq to Canada, Shirzad brings both strategy and heart to the process. His consultative approach to buying and selling homes focuses on zero pressure guidance, long term planning, and aligning every move with a client’s deeper why.

If you are navigating real estate in Niagara Region, considering condo living, exploring bungalow homes, or planning retirement downsizing in Ontario, this episode delivers actionable insight.

S01 E25 | Covid Didn’t Kill My Real Estate Business - It Grew It | With Heather Atkinson

Koukun Unosawa — Mon, 16 Feb 2026 14:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Heather Atkinson, Team Leader of Atkinson & Associates at Keller Williams, reveals how she became one of the top-performing real estate agents serving Haldimand, Norfolk and Hamilton.

From knocking 1,000 doors a month to building a repeat-and-referral-driven team, Heather breaks down what it really takes to succeed in today’s shifting Ontario housing market.

S01 E24 | Land Banking Secrets Most Investors Don’t Understand | With David Boersma

Koukun Unosawa — Thu, 12 Feb 2026 14:00:00 +0000

Real estate investing isn’t just about buying homes , it’s about understanding land, development, timing, and risk. In this Business Spotlight episode, David Boersma of Benchmark Real Estate Group, brokered with RE/MAX Escarpment, shares his journey from construction roots and law school to becoming a specialist in luxury homes, development land, agricultural properties, and vineyard real estate.

David breaks down how development land really works, who land banking is truly for, how investor partnerships are structured, and what smaller investors should know before entering subdivision and infill projects. He also explains why market cycles matter, how hype-driven buying leads to losses, and what proper due diligence looks like in today’s property market.

S01 E23 | The Toronto Realtor Warning Buyers About Pre-Construction | With Salim Walji

Koukun Unosawa — Thu, 05 Feb 2026 14:00:00 +0000

In this conversation, Salim Walji , a Toronto-based real estate agent, shares his journey into the real estate industry, discussing his background, the dynamics of new builds, current market trends, and the challenges faced in development and financing. He emphasizes the importance of education in real estate, the impact of development charges and property taxes, and the need for balance in a demanding career. Salim also reflects on personal growth and future aspirations while contrasting lifestyle choices between city living and suburban life.

Salim Walji
Contact: 647-242-3480
E-mail: salim@salimwalji.ca
IG: https://www.instagram.com/salimwalji.to/?hl=en
Website: https://salimwalji.ca/

S01 E22 | Niagara Real Estate Market Strategies for First-Time Home Buyers | With Cheryl Bergie

Koukun Unosawa — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 14:00:00 +0000

In this conversation, Cheryl Bergie , a real estate agent from Royal LePage NRC Realty, shares her journey into real estate, focusing on her experiences in the Niagara region. She discusses the evolution of the market, strategies for first-time home buyers, the importance of renovations, and the significance of getting started in real estate investment. Cheryl emphasizes the need for planning and leveraging resources, as well as sharing personal insights and life lessons that resonate with her audience.

Cheryl Bergie
C: 289-407-7968
E: cbergie@royallepage.ca
IG: https://www.instagram.com/sisters_in_sales

S01 E21 | Helping Families Buy Smarter Homes in Today’s Real Estate Market | With Telina Fishbach

Koukun Unosawa — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 19:32:43 +0000

In this conversation, Telina Fishbach, a real estate agent in the Niagara region, shares her journey into real estate, the challenges of navigating a difficult market, and her passion for helping families find their ideal homes. She discusses the importance of understanding family needs, preparing for home buying, and the transition to rural living. Telina Fishbach emphasizes the significance of community involvement and the power of kindness in both personal and professional life.

Contact: 905-650-7039
Email: telinafishbach@momentumrealty.ca
IG: https://www.instagram.com/findyourniagaranest/

Website: https://findyourniagaranest.ca/
🗓️ Book an intro call with me: https://calendly.com/koukun_unosawa/intro-call15?month=2026-01
📱 Text/call/email Me Directly - 289.301.7679 / mortgage@koukun.ca
👋 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/koukun.unosawa/

S01 E20 | Real Estate Booms, Busts & Survival: A 20-Year Insider View | With Steve Robes

Koukun Unosawa — Mon, 26 Jan 2026 14:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Steve Robes shares his extensive journey in real estate, discussing the challenges he faced in the early years, the importance of client relationships, and the impact of COVID-19 on the market. He provides insights into the commercial real estate landscape, current market dynamics, and predictions for the future. Steve emphasizes the importance of not procrastinating and staying within one's financial means when making real estate decisions. He also touches on the evolving role of AI in the industry and the value of personal connections in real estate transactions.

Steve Robes -
Contact: 905-541-8662
Email: steve.robes@gmail.com
IG: https://www.instagram.com/bigrealtor/
Website: www.steverobes.com

S01 E19 | Serving to Selling: Secrets Realtors Use to Win Big Deals in Toronto | With Anthony Feor

Koukun Unosawa — Thu, 22 Jan 2026 14:00:00 +0000

In this conversation, Anthony Feor , a realtor with the Barry team, shares his journey from serving to becoming a successful real estate agent in Toronto and the Niagara region. He discusses the challenges and opportunities in the current real estate market, including the impact of recent economic changes, the psychology behind real estate decisions, and the potential for recovery in the coming years. Anthony emphasizes the importance of being proactive and informed in the real estate industry, offering insights into market trends and personal growth.

Anthony Feor -
C: 905-321-4611
E: anthony@thebarryteam.ca
IG: https://www.instagram.com/anthonyfeorrealtor/?hl=en

S01 E18 | Door Knocking to Deals: Downtown Toronto Real Estate Insights | With Raymond Kybartas

Koukun Unosawa — Mon, 19 Jan 2026 14:00:00 +0000

In this conversation, Raymond Kybartas, a Toronto-based realtor, shares insights into his real estate business, emphasizing the importance of door knocking, building client relationships, and maintaining organizational systems. He discusses the challenges and rewards of working in real estate, including navigating property renovations and understanding older home wiring. Throughout the discussion, Raymond highlights the significance of enjoying the journey in real estate and learning from experiences.

Raymond Kybartas -
C: 647-339-2865
E: rkybartas68@gmail.com
IG: https://www.instagram.com/rightrayrealestate/?hl=en

S01 E17 | Steel Industry to Real Estate: Navigating Hamilton Real Estate Market | With Mike Gligoric

Koukun Unosawa — Thu, 15 Jan 2026 18:26:20 +0000

In this conversation, Mike Gligoric, a realtor from Hamilton, shares his journey from the steel industry to real estate, discussing the challenges and dynamics of the current market. He emphasizes the importance of optimism, the realities of client relationships, and the opportunities for first-time home buyers. Mike also highlights strategies for leveraging rental income and the significance of maintaining a positive mindset in the face of market fluctuations.

Mike Gligoric
C: 289-962-0712
E: mikegligoric@gmail.com
IG: https://www.instagram.com/mikegligoric

S01 E16 | Navigating Real Estate Landscape: Strategies for Today’s Market | With Soni Chachad

Koukun Unosawa — Mon, 12 Jan 2026 14:00:00 +0000

In this conversation, Soni Chachad , an investment-focused realtor, shares insights from her extensive experience in real estate, emphasizing the importance of understanding market dynamics, client needs, and the value of genuine connections. She discusses her journey from banking to real estate, her investment strategies, and the significance of doing thorough research before making investment decisions. The conversation highlights the evolving real estate landscape and the necessity for investors to adapt to changing market conditions while maintaining a long-term perspective.

Soni Chachad
C: 647-220-2301
E: soni@chachadestates.com
IG: https://www.instagram.com/listwithsoni/
Website: https://chachadestates.com/

S01 E15 | Navigating the Real Estate Landscape: Insights from a Family Legacy | With Frank Ruzycki

Koukun Unosawa — Thu, 08 Jan 2026 14:00:00 +0000

In this conversation, Frank Ruzycki shares insights from his journey in the real estate industry, highlighting the dynamics of growing up in a family business, the importance of technology and marketing strategies, and the challenges faced in the current market. He emphasizes the need for realtors to act as fiduciaries for their clients, ensuring informed decisions while navigating the complexities of home buying and selling. Frank also reflects on the lessons learned throughout his career and the value of building lasting relationships with clients.

Frank J Ruzycki
C:905-321-5183
E: Frank.Ruzycki@remax.net
IG: https://www.instagram.com/frankjruzycki/
Website: https://ruzyckirealestate.com/

S01 E14 | Employee to Entrepreneur: Building a Successful Real Estate Business | With Dan Stefels

Koukun Unosawa — Mon, 05 Jan 2026 14:00:00 +0000

In this episode of the Golden Horseshoe Real Estate Podcast, host Koukun Onosawa speaks with Dan Steffels, a seasoned real estate professional with over 11 years of experience. Dan shares his journey from being an employee to becoming a business owner in the real estate industry. He discusses the importance of building a solid business structure, the role of mentorship, and the necessity of having systems and processes in place. The conversation also delves into the impact of AI on real estate, the nuances of the Niagara market, and the significance of urgency in client responses. Dan emphasizes the importance of prioritizing family and living in alignment with one's values.

S01 E13 I Accountant to Realtor: A Journey in Real Estate | With Thomas pobojewski

Koukun Unosawa — Thu, 01 Jan 2026 14:00:00 +0000

In this episode of the Golden Horseshoe Real Estate Podcast, host Koukun Unosawa speaks with Thomas Pobojewski , a seasoned realtor and property flipper. They discuss Thomas's journey from a corporate accountant to a successful real estate agent, the intricacies of property flipping, and the importance of understanding market dynamics. Thomas shares valuable insights on identifying profitable properties, the role of contractors, and the significance of having a solid financing strategy. He also reflects on the challenges faced during market fluctuations and offers advice for aspiring investors, emphasizing the importance of mindset and physical activity in achieving success.

Thomas Pobojewski CPA, CA Broker Schedule a 20 Minute ZOOM or PHONE Meeting –
https://calendly.com/pobojewski-real-estate-team/20minconsulation?month=2026-01
Want More Listings– https://pobojewski.ca/

Royal LePage Signature Realty
30 Eglinton Avenue West, Suite 200 Mississauga, ON, L5R 3E7
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pobojewski.team/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCY6BZ5yhu8Dc72i9MYvf70g
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TomPobojewskiRoyalLePage
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/checkpoint/challengesV3/AQELaI11Wy0XbQAAAZt_FVUTzEhYl0nVWNnW_vR2MKONol1o6ABKb7ExsykNv3ddBO2LJazAflgK0DAwO1Gr8hO6FPqQPg
B: 905.568.2121
D: 416.669.9974
E: tpobojewski@royallepage.ca
LOOKING TO FLIP HOMES –Download Our FREE E-Book– https://pobojewski.ca/how-to-flip-homes-for-profit-in-the-gta
Assistant: Ruby@poboteam.ca Email: tom@poboteam.ca

S01 E12 I The Real Estate Grind: Mindset, Gratitude & Growth | With Sarah Cordon

Koukun Unosawa — Thu, 18 Dec 2025 14:00:00 +0000

In this episode of the Golden Horseshoe Real Estate Podcast, host Koukun Unosawa speaks with Sarah Cordon, a real estate agent and investor in the Niagara region, about her transition from banking into real estate and the realities of building a successful career in the industry. They discuss the grind of lead generation, the role of mindset and gratitude, navigating renovations and property management, and how family influence shaped Sarah’s approach to investing. The conversation highlights the importance of discipline, strong client relationships, and understanding your “why” as an investor.

Connect with Sarah:
Website: https://www.sarahcordon.ca/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/thesarahcordon
E: scordon@bosleyrealestate.com
C: 647-780-3523

🗓️ Book an intro call with me: calendly.com/koukun_unosawa/intro-call15
📱 Text / Call / Email Me Directly: 289.301.7679 | mortgage@koukun.ca

👋 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/koukun.unosawa/

S01 E11 I The Importance of Follow-Ups in Real Estate | With Zachary D'avella

Koukun Unosawa — Thu, 11 Dec 2025 14:00:00 +0000

S01 E10 I From Challenges to Success : Kim Robinson's Story | With Kim Robinson

Koukun Unosawa — Thu, 04 Dec 2025 14:00:00 +0000

In this episode of the Golden Horseshoe Real Estate Podcast, host Koukun Onosawa interviews Kim Robinson, a seasoned real estate broker. Kim shares her journey starting in the industry at a young age, navigating the challenges of fluctuating markets, and the importance of time management and client relationships. She reflects on the sacrifices made for her career and emphasizes the need for balance between work and family life. Kim also discusses the evolution of her business, the significance of support systems, and valuable life lessons learned throughout her career.

🗓️ Book an intro call with me: calendly.com/koukun_unosawa/intro-call15
📱 Text/call/email Me Directly - 289.301.7679 / mortgage@koukun.ca
👋 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/koukun.unosawa/

S01 E09 Investment Strategies for Today's Market | With Tim Hong

Koukun Unosawa — Thu, 27 Nov 2025 14:00:00 +0000

In this episode of the Golden Horseshoe Real Estate Podcast, host Koukun Onosawa speaks with Tim Hong, a seasoned realtor and property manager, about the current real estate market in Kitchener-Waterloo-Cambridge (KWC). They discuss market trends, investment strategies, and the challenges of property management. Tim shares insights on tenant screening, the importance of delayed gratification in investment decisions, and the differences between various business models in real estate. The conversation emphasizes the significance of understanding market dynamics and making informed decisions as an investor.

Connect with Tim Hong:
https://www.instagram.com/_timhong_/?hl=en
Email: tim@rockstarbrokerage.com
Cell: 416-648-3452

S01 E08 Opportunities for First-Time Home-Buyers | With Jon Hutton

Koukun Unosawa — Thu, 20 Nov 2025 14:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Jonathan Hutton, a top realtor in the Kitchener-Waterloo area, discusses the current real estate market dynamics, focusing on the challenges and opportunities for first-time home buyers, effective selling strategies, and the importance of marketing to out-of-town buyers. He shares his personal journey into real estate and emphasizes the significance of understanding one's 'why' in the business.

C: 226-808-0746
E: jon.e.hutton@gmail.com
IG: https://www.instagram.com/mimoza_jon_hutton_remax/

S01 E07 The Impact of New Developments on Housing Supply | With Michael Stepien

Koukun Unosawa — Thu, 13 Nov 2025 14:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Michael Stepien, a seasoned real estate investor and developer, shares his insights on the current development landscape in the Niagara region. He discusses the best opportunities for developers, the importance of due diligence, and the evolving market dynamics influenced by the housing crisis. Michael highlights his current projects, including innovative housing solutions like townhouses with basement suites, and reflects on the financial aspects of development. He also shares personal reflections on resilience and the importance of meaningful work in the entrepreneurial journey.

Michael Stepien
C: 905-359-4868
E: mikestepien@royallepage.ca
IG: https://www.instagram.com/mike.stepien/

S01 E06 The Importance of Financial Literacy | With Mayra Darquea

Koukun Unosawa — Thu, 06 Nov 2025 14:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Mayra Darquea shares her insights on the Hamilton housing market, discussing opportunities for buyers, sellers, and investors. She emphasizes the importance of strategic pricing and preparation in selling homes, as well as her personal journey into real estate and her passion for financial literacy. The conversation highlights the need for education and execution in making informed real estate decisions.

Mayra Darquea
905-541-3055
mayradarquea@kw.com
https://www.instagram.com/mayra.darquea_realestate

S01 E05 Embrace Opportunities, even if they seem scary | With Rachel Stempski

Koukun Unosawa — Thu, 30 Oct 2025 13:00:00 +0000

Rachel is a real estate agent based in the Niagara Region. Rachel has a long track record of investing in real estate personally owning over 30 rental apartments as well as helping her clients through the various challenges that arise when owning rental properties.

Rachel's contact details:
C: 905-327-5656
E: rachelstempski@hotmail.com
https://rachelstempski.com/
https://www.instagram.com/realtorrachelstempski/?hl=en

S01 E04 Al Raby’s Guide to Buying, Selling, and Succeeding in the Niagara Market | With Al Raby

Koukun Unosawa — Thu, 23 Oct 2025 14:00:00 +0100

In this episode, Al Raby, a seasoned real estate broker, shares his insights on the current real estate market, particularly in the Niagara region. He discusses the opportunities available for first-time home buyers, strategies for selling homes in a challenging market, and the dynamics between investor and owner-occupied properties. Al also emphasizes the importance of mentorship, preparation, and hard work for new agents entering the industry. He reflects on his own journey, the challenges faced, and his aspirations for the future of his brokerage and team

Al Raby
alraby@alraby.ca
Direct: (905) 650-9378
Al's website: https://www.alraby.ca/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/alrabyrealestate/?hl=en

S01 E03 Creating a power team enhances the client experience | With Ryan Dyck

Koukun Unosawa — Thu, 16 Oct 2025 14:00:00 +0100

In this episode, Ryan Dyck, a top real estate agent in the Niagara region, shares insights on navigating the current real estate market for both buyers and sellers. He discusses opportunities for first-time home buyers, the importance of making homes turnkey for sellers, and the current sentiment among investors. Ryan also reflects on his journey into real estate and the importance of having a reliable team to ensure a smooth client experience.

Connect with Ryan Dyck here :
ryan@dunrealestate.com
Direct: 905 246 4303

S01 E02 Unlocking Secrets of First-Time Home Buying | With Arnie San Agustin

Koukun Unosawa — Thu, 09 Oct 2025 14:00:00 +0100

In this podcast episode, realtor Arnie San Agustin shares insights into the current real estate market, particularly for first-time home buyers in the Oakville and Burlington areas. He discusses the types of homes available, market trends, buyer behavior, and some surprising stories from his experiences in real estate. Arnie emphasizes the importance of education and patience for new buyers, as well as the evolving dynamics of the market.

Connect with Arnie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arniesanagustin/
Arnie's website: https://www.sanagustinrealty.com/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/sanagustinrealty/?hl=en

S01 E01 The First-Time Home Buyer's Guide | With Justin Dube

Koukun Unosawa — Thu, 02 Oct 2025 14:00:00 +0100

Welcome to the first episode of the Golden Horseshoe Real Estate Podcast!

In this conversation, Justin, a realtor in the Niagara region, discusses the current real estate market, particularly for first-time home buyers. He emphasizes the importance of understanding client needs, navigating the home buying process, and the value of having a network of trusted contractors. Justin also shares insights from his experience working with his father in real estate and his entrepreneurial background, offering advice for both buyers and sellers in today's market.

Connect with Justin here: Text/call/email: - 289.407.6725 / justinduberealestate@gmail.com https://www.instagram.com/duberealtors/?hl=en https://www.cbadvantage.ca/Justin-Dube

We hope you enjoyed this episode!
- Koukun and the Golden Horseshoe Real Estate Podcast team
Book an intro call with me: calendly.com/koukun_unosawa/intro-call15 Text/call/email Me Directly - 289.301.7679 / mortgage@koukun.ca Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/koukun.unosawa/

#Niagararealestate #firsttimehomebuyers #homebuyingprocess #renovations #budgeting #realestateadvice #trustedcontractors #familybusiness #entrepreneurship #markettrends