LEVerage With Rachel Levy

Hosted by Rachel Levy

Business EntrepreneurshipInterviews guests

Website RSS feed LinkedIn Facebook Instagram YouTube

Episodes

113

Latest episode

Sep 2026

Language

About the show

Not so long ago it became apparent to me that people were interested in more than the just the basics of Real Estate in Toronto LEVerage is all about pulling the curtain back on everything Real Estate in the GTA. The show is curated content about the trends, the insights & the disruptors. Its as an extension of our daily conversations with clients brought to you in segments. You can reach me at rachel@rachellevyhomes.com or https://linktr.ee/rachellevyhomes

Listen to episodes

60 recent

September 27, 202642 min

Will AI Replace Real Estate Agents? | With Natalka Falcomer

Everyone’s talking about AI changing real estate. But what will it actually change, and who stands to benefit? Natalka Falcomer returns to LEVerage for a candid conversation with Rachel about artificial intelligence, the future of real estate brokerages, and why human judgment still matters when you’re buying or selling a home. We discuss where automation could make the biggest difference, why having technology doesn’t mean agents are using it, and whether AI could give large brokerages an even bigger advantage over smaller independents. Plus, we share our predictions for the Canadian real estate industry: fewer agents, leaner brokerages, potential changes to who controls listing data, and why finding the bottom of the housing market doesn’t necessarily mean a rebound is coming. An honest conversation about what’s useful, what’s overhyped, and what buyers, sellers, and agents should be thinking about next. Follow me on Socials: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/rachellevyhomes/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@rachellevyhomes Check out my website - https://www.rachellevyhomes.com Produced by Max Silverberg

August 2, 202659 min

Toronto Real Estate Is in Uncharted Territory | With Joel Kadish

YouTube - https://youtu.be/zndUlT4XnZI Toronto real estate is no longer following its old rules. In this episode of LEVerage, Rachel sits down with returning guest and real estate lawyer Joel Kadish for a candid look at a GTA market that has become increasingly difficult to predict. From disappearing seasonality and inconsistent sales activity to rising transaction complexity, Rachel and Joel share what they are seeing on the ground—and why experience matters more than ever in today’s market. They discuss: • Why traditional market cycles have become unreliable • How banks and mortgage brokers are adapting • Why experienced agents are surviving while others leave the industry • What is happening in Toronto’s condo and luxury markets • The effects of interest rates, foreign-buyer restrictions, land-transfer taxes, and development charges • Why government intervention can create unintended consequences • The growing affordability divide between generations • How rising rents are affecting families who need larger homes • Why first-time buyers increasingly depend on family support • The return of complicated conditions and longer agreements • What buyers and sellers should expect through 2027 and beyond The market may be slower, but that does not mean nothing is happening. Deals are still closing, opportunities still exist, and buyers are finding new ways into the market, but the process requires more patience, preparation, and professional guidance than it once did. If you are buying, selling, renting, investing, or working in Toronto real estate, this conversation offers an honest look at where the market stands and what may come next. Kadish Law – http://www.kadishlaw.com – (416) 636-5565 Follow me on Socials: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/rachellevyhomes/ TikTok – https://www.tiktok.com/@rachellevyhomes Check out my website – https://www.rachellevyhomes.com Produced by Max Silverberg

July 26, 202639 min

The Best ROI Upgrades Before Selling Your Home | With Michael Cappa

YouTube - https://youtu.be/djFYWbOgPb4 Does painting your home before listing actually increase its value? In this episode of LEVerage, Rachel Levy sits down with Michael Cappa, founder of Altona Painting, to discuss one of the highest-ROI improvements sellers can make before putting their home on the market. From choosing the right paint colours to avoiding expensive renovations that won’t pay off, Michael shares practical advice from hundreds of real estate preparation projects across the GTA. In this episode: * Why painting is one of the best pre-listing investments * The biggest mistakes sellers make before listing * Paint colours that help homes sell faster * Why first impressions matter more than ever * Cost-effective upgrades with the best return on investment * Professional advice on preparing your home for today’s market Whether you’re selling your first home or your fifth, these tips could help you maximize your sale price. Altona Painting - https://altonapainting.com Follow me on Socials: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/rachellevyhomes/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@rachellevyhomes Check out my website - https://www.rachellevyhomes.com Produced by Max Silverberg

July 19, 202645 min

Can Toronto Be Saved? | With Kelly Aizicowitz

YouTube - https://youtu.be/LLLbdrrqZ24 Is Toronto heading in the wrong direction? In this episode of LEVerage, Rachel sits down with Kelly Aizicowitz, Executive Director of A Better City Toronto, to discuss public safety, affordability, homelessness, municipal leadership, and the upcoming Toronto election. We discuss: * Why Kelly believes Toronto needs new leadership * Crime, public safety, and policing * The TTC and everyday safety concerns * Housing affordability and property taxes * Homelessness and addiction policy * Why local elections matter more than most people think * How residents can get involved in shaping Toronto’s futureWhether you agree or disagree, this conversation explores some of the biggest issues facing Canada’s largest city. 👍 Like, subscribe, and share if you enjoyed the conversation. ABC Toronto - https://abctoronto.org/about-abc-toronto/Follow me on Socials: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/rachellevyhomes/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@rachellevyhomes Check out my website - https://www.rachellevyhomes.com Produced by Max Silverberg

July 12, 202634 min

The Estate Planning Mistakes That Could Cost Your Family Thousands | With Mark Halpern

YouTube - https://youtu.be/h-awVJrawUQ Most people think estate planning is something they can deal with later. The reality? Failing to have an up-to-date will, powers of attorney, and a proper estate plan can leave your family with unnecessary taxes, legal headaches, and difficult decisions. In this episode of LEVerage, financial expert Mark Halpern joins me to break down: • Why everyone needs a will • The hidden costs of probate • The difference between primary and secondary wills • Why powers of attorney are essential • The risks of putting children on property titles • How an estate directory can save your family stress and confusion • Why estate planning is really about protecting the people you love No matter your age or net worth, this conversation is packed with practical advice that could save your family time, money, and heartache. 👍 Like, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who needs to start planning for the future. Mark Halpern - https://wealthinsurance.com/about-us.html Follow me on Socials: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/rachellevyhomes/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@rachellevyhomes Check out my website - https://www.rachellevyhomes.com Produced by Max Silverberg

June 28, 202625 min

How to Avoid Costly Renovation Mistakes in Toronto | With Leila Karam

YouTube - https://youtu.be/-j3U-qy-jZM Thinking about building a deck, renovating your home, or starting a custom build in Toronto? Before you begin, you may want to hear from someone who has seen the process from both sides. This week on Leverage, I sit down with Leila Karam, President of Q Architects and former City of Toronto Building Inspector. Leila shares insider knowledge on building permits, inspections, Committee of Adjustment applications, and the costly mistakes homeowners make when they skip the proper process. In this episode, we discuss: • Why you need a permit for a deck • How neighbour complaints can lead to expensive consequences • The truth about Toronto’s permit process and inspection system • Committee of Adjustment and recent density changes • How the City of Toronto handles building applications behind the scenes • Common mistakes homeowners and builders should avoid Whether you’re planning a renovation, building a custom home, or simply curious about how the permitting process works, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Guest:Leila KaramPresident, Q Architects 📍 Q Architects 5409 Yonge Street, Unit 207, Toronto, ON 📞 (647) 470-4041 If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and share with anyone planning a renovation or new build. Follow me on Socials: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/rachellevyhomes/TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@rachellevyhomesCheck out my website - https://www.rachellevyhomes.comProduced by Max Silverberg

May 31, 202649 min

Toronto’s Condo Market Just Hit a 35-Year Low | With Natalka Falcomer

YouTube - https://youtu.be/t_O1Rx8lqJg Toronto’s pre-construction condo market has hit a 35-year low, inventory is piling up, and buyers are no longer chasing speculation. In this episode of LEVerage, Natalka and Rachel break down what’s really happening across the GTA housing market, which neighbourhoods are still attracting buyers, and why fundamentals matter more than ever. Topics include: • The collapse of GTA pre-construction condo sales • Why some suburban markets are outperforming • The psychology driving today’s buyers • Brampton, Scarborough, Richmond Hill and beyond • Housing market predictions for the rest of 2026 Listen now and let us know what you’re seeing in your market. Follow me on Socials: Instagram -https://www.instagram.com/rachellevyhomes/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@rachellevyhomes Check out my website - https://www.rachellevyhomes.com Produced by Max Silverberg

May 17, 202636 min

Condo Crisis or Market Reset? | With Dominic Tompa

YouTube - https://youtu.be/ZE3PMkM6yDA Is Toronto’s condo market actually in crisis, or are we simply watching a major market correction unfold?In this episode of LEVerage, President of The Daniels Realty Corporation, Dominic Tompa, discusses the realities behind Toronto real estate, including condo affordability, shrinking unit sizes, development charges, investor speculation, future housing shortages, and why 2028 could become a major turning point for condo supply in the city.The conversation also explores:• Why condo sizes got smaller• The role of investors and speculation• Government taxes and development charges• Why builders stopped launching projects• The future of condo amenities and maintenance fees• Whether housing affordability can realistically improveIf you’re interested in Toronto real estate, condos, investing, or housing policy, this episode gives a rare inside look from someone with over 40 years in the development industry.Dominic Tompa - https://danielshomes.ca/team/dominic-tompa/Follow me on Socials: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/rachellevyhomes/TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@rachellevyhomesCheck out my website - https://www.rachellevyhomes.comProduced by Max Silverberg

April 12, 202649 min

What Top Realtors Do Differently (It's Not What You Think) | With Sean McCann

YouTube - https://youtu.be/Lhn-nmoq9Vc What actually separates a great real estate agent from an average one? In this episode of LEVerage, Rachel sits down with real estate broker Sean McCann to break down: • Why most agents feel “commoditized” • The KPIs that actually matter (but no one talks about) • How the role of a realtor has evolved from gatekeeper → service provider → experience curator → transformation partner • Why referrals don’t work the way they used to • And why today’s market might be a bigger opportunity than people think This is a deep dive into the real value of a great agent and where the industry is heading next. 👇 Drop your thoughts in the comments. Do you think most agents are interchangeable? Sean McCann - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sean-mccann-543b5b21/ Follow me on Socials: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/rachellevyhomes/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@rachellevyhomes Check out my website - https://www.rachellevyhomes.com Produced by Max Silverberg

March 22, 202643 min

Power of Sale vs. Foreclosure (What Most Buyers Get WRONG) | With Joel Kadish

YouTube - https://youtu.be/Kke2M2wRwGw Everyone’s talking about foreclosures, power of sale deals, and a “crashing” market… but what’s actually true? In this episode of LEVerage, we break down: • The REAL difference between power of sale vs foreclosure • Why “cheap deals” are often a myth • What actually happens when someone misses mortgage payments • How banks really handle distressed properties • Why today’s market feels confusing (and what buyers need to know)We also dive into: • Market uncertainty post-COVID • The impact of rising interest rates • Why the market isn’t “coming back”… it’s just changing • The hidden risks of pre-construction condosIf you’re a buyer, investor, or homeowner in today’s market, this is a must-watch. Kadish Law - http://www.kadishlaw.com - (416) 636-5565 Follow me on Socials: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/rachellevyhomes/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@rachellevyhomes Check out my website - https://www.rachellevyhomes.com Produced by Max Silverberg