Category: Webinar
Webinar 2 – Thrive in ’25: Pier 4 REIT
In this episode of ‘Thrive in 25,’ hosts Addy Saeed and Kaz Jaffer conduct an in-depth review of Pier 4 REIT by interviewing Darren Gazdag, VP of Sales at Pier 4. The discussion covers the fund’s strategy, investment approach, and performance metrics. Darren provides insights into Pier 4’s focus on value-add properties, the management team’s 40 years of experience, and the REIT’s significant growth, including plans to expand in secondary markets like Ontario and Atlantic Canada. They also highlight Pier 4’s commitment to internal property management and investor transparency. The session concludes with details on how investors can get involved and further information on the Pier 4 REIT.
In today’s rapidly shifting real estate landscape, investors are constantly on the lookout for opportunities that offer substantial returns while minimizing risks. A recent webinar, “Thrive in 25,” provided an in-depth review of Pier 4 REIT, a unique player in the real estate investment trust (REIT) arena that’s taking a distinctive approach to market entry and property management.
Introduction to Pier 4 REIT
Hosted by Addy Saeed, a dealing representative with over 18 years of experience, this session brought forward insights from Darren Gazdag, VP of Sales at Pier 4 REIT. Darren detailed the strategic acquisition and management methodologies that set Pier 4 apart. The emphasis of the discussion revolved around understanding the REIT’s investment strategies, growth trajectory, and the operational nuances that make it an attractive investment vehicle in secondary markets.
The Journey to Pier 4
Darren Gazdag’s journey through the financial services industry highlights the unique positioning of Pier 4 as a family-owned multifamily REIT. The REIT, launched in 2020, is built on a foundation of over 40 years in real estate, including experiences in ownership, property management, and capital improvements. Using this extensive background, the Ashby family transitioned from operating a general contracting business to acquiring their own real estate portfolio, eventually leading to the formation of Pier 4.
Navigating Secondary Markets
Pier 4 REIT’s strategy is heavily focused on targeting under-the-radar real estate opportunities primarily in secondary markets outside major metropolitan areas, such as Ontario and Atlantic Canada. By concentrating on low competition areas, Pier 4 identifies overlooked properties with substantial potential for improvement. This strategy not only boosts property values but also enhances the living experiences for residents.
Innovative Management and Growth Strategy
A significant part of Pier 4’s allure comes from its self-sufficient property management strategy. By internalizing property management, Pier 4 maintains better control over operations, thereby minimizing costs and boosting investor returns. This approach also supports their aggressive acquisition strategy, allowing for significant growth and a consistent distribution yield that surpasses industry standards.
Investor Returns and Strategic Acquisitions
An investment in Pier 4 is marked by its strong performance metrics, with returns since inception exceeding 40% for Class A investments. The REIT aims to maintain an 8% distribution yield with a long-term target of 12-15% returns. This consistent benefit for investors is bolstered by the REIT’s ability to acquire properties with significant gaps to market rent assessments, enabling value appreciation and enhanced income.
Evaluating the Future: Risks and Opportunities
Looking forward, Pier 4 is poised to continue its growth trajectory, especially as market conditions evolve with interest rate adjustments and shifting real estate dynamics. One consideration discussed was the potential impact of upcoming rent control legislation in Nova Scotia. However, Darren expressed confidence in Pier 4’s preparedness to adapt to any legislative changes, supported by their substantial gap to market rents.
Conclusion
For investors looking to broaden their portfolios with exposure to under-tapped, high-potential real estate opportunities, Pier 4 REIT offers a compelling proposition. With a focus on secondary markets, strategic property management, and consistent investor returns, Pier 4 stands out as a leader in the private REIT space.
For more information on Pier 4 REIT and access to their investor materials, potential investors can visit Westcliff’s online platforms or schedule a consultation with their representatives.
Webinar – Thrive in ’25 – Alternative Investments
Alternative investments can be a significant asset in diversifying and enriching your portfolio. The “Thrive in ’25” webinar series, featuring industry experts Addy Saeed and Kaz Jaffer, delves into innovative strategies for passive investing using equity and debt strategies. This blog post summarizes the key insights from the first webinar in the series.
Introduction to Alternative Investments
Welcoming all attendees, Addy Saeed, a registered dealing representative with Waverley Corporate Finance, introduces the concept of alternative investments. He outlines the agenda, which includes a comprehensive guide to equity and debt strategies, an exploration of investment opportunities, and guides on utilizing digital tools for engaging with the presenters during the webinar.
Key Benefits of Passive vs. Active Investing
Addy outlines two primary investment methods: active and passive investing. While active investing involves direct ownership and management of assets like real estate, passive investing is defined by its minimal initial capital requirement, absence of debt involvement, professional management, and diversification across multiple assets. This method leverages non-traditional investment options beyond stocks and bonds, thus offering robust diversification.
Advantages of Real Estate and Private Equity
Don McDonald from Waverley Corporate Finance explains why Canadians heavily invest in public equities and bonds, pointing out the control exerted by banks and life companies. He shares insights into why the “smart money” is often directed towards private equities and real estate for better risk-adjusted returns, better capital protection, and comparatively low volatility.
Exploring Real Estate Investing
Kaz Jaffer picks up the baton to describe why additional scrutiny is required when dealing with alternative investments as compared to public equities. Private alternative investments tend to capitalize on the tangible appreciation of assets rather than sentiment-driven market trends. Investors must also consider factors like project-specific risks and capital accessibility.
Equity vs. Debt Investment Strategies
Kaz further emphasizes understanding equity and debt strategies, underscoring the necessity for investors to ascertain their position within the capital structure—whether reaping the rewards through profit sharing in equity or through interest payments in debt.
Ensuring Compliance and Customer Knowledge
The webinar underscores the importance of compliance through Know Your Customer (KYC) and Know Your Product (KYP) processes, fit to ascertain suitable selections tailored to individual client profiles. Addy and Kaz, as regulated dealing representatives, are required to adhere to the strictest compliance practices to protect the public interest.
Investment Opportunities Presented
Four investment opportunities discussed in the webinar include:
Centurion Asset Management: A household name targeting 7-12% annual returns by investing in 158 properties across Canada.
Durum Industrial REIT: Offers exposure to industrial real estate, growing significantly due to the e-commerce boom with a target return of 8-12%.
Ginkgo MIC: A mortgage investment corporation providing annual returns in the vicinity of 9%, leveraging a diversified loan portfolio.
North America Home Finance: Provides a development opportunity in Langford, BC, with expected returns of 55% over approximately 36 months.
Final Thoughts
This introductory session in the Thrive in ’25 series illustrates the advantages of alternative investing and highlights the importance of due diligence, legal compliance, and strategic diversification. Engaging with experts and seeking personalized advice are crucial steps in navigating the world of alternative investments.
Websites Mentioned