What is the BRRRR Strategy and Why Ontario Landlords Love It

BRRRR stands for Buy, Renovate, Rent, Refinance. This smart way to invest in real estate is helping many Ontario landlords build wealth faster than traditional methods.

When done right, this strategy lets you pull most of your money back out after improving a property. Then you can use that same money to buy another property!

Why Ontario’s Housing Market is Perfect for BRRRR

Ontario’s strong rental demand makes this strategy work especially well here. With over 33% of Canadians paying rent, finding good tenants isn’t as hard as some might think.

The trick is knowing which areas in Ontario see the biggest value jumps after renovations. Not all cities respond the same way:

• Toronto and Hamilton: Property values jump significantly after adding units
• Oshawa and Durham: Great BRRRR potential with strong value increases
• St. Catharines: Solid returns on renovation investments
• Mississauga and Richmond Hill: Less value increase from the same renovations

Starting Small: The Basement Apartment Approach

Many Ontario landlords start with just one investment – adding a basement apartment to their own home. This smaller project lets you:

• Learn the ropes with less risk
• Start earning rental income right away
• Build equity you can tap into later
• Get comfortable with being a landlord

The Power of Professional Teams in Ontario

One big mistake new Ontario landlords make is trying to do everything themselves. Working with local experts who know Ontario’s building codes, permit processes, and market trends saves both time and money.

The right team can:

• Find below-market properties others miss
• Handle renovations with fixed budgets
• Navigate Ontario’s specific municipal rules
• Help find quality tenants

The Tax Advantages Ontario Landlords Should Know

When you refinance an investment property in Ontario, the money you pull out is tax-free! This is very different from selling a property, where you’d pay capital gains tax.

Plus, the interest on your investment property mortgage is a business expense you can write off, making this an even smarter money move for Ontario landlords.

Beyond Long-Term Rentals: Mid-Term Options in Ontario

Not all rental strategies need to be 12-month leases. Some Ontario landlords are finding success with mid-term furnished rentals (3+ months) to:

• Charge higher rents
• Attract professionals and medical workers
• Avoid some of the challenges of traditional renting

Why 2025 is the Best Time for Ontario Landlords to Invest

Despite market uncertainties, many real estate experts believe now is the best time to invest in Ontario real estate since 2008. With many properties selling below true value, smart investors are finding great deals.

As one famous investor said: “When others are fearful, be greedy.” This wisdom applies perfectly to Ontario’s current real estate market.

Ready to Learn More About BRRRR Strategy in Ontario?

If you’re thinking about becoming a landlord or growing your property portfolio in Ontario, the full podcast episode with Monika Jazyk shares even more detailed advice about:

• Exactly how to structure your first BRRRR deal
• Which Ontario municipalities are easiest to work with
• How to find off-market properties in today’s market
• Ways to minimize tenant problems from the start

The BRRRR strategy isn’t just for full-time investors. Even Ontarians with regular jobs can use this approach to build wealth through real estate one property at a time.

Listen to the full episode to hear all the tips that could help you start building your real estate portfolio in Ontario today!