Ready to Real Estate
Jason Mercer
TRREB show on GTA housing, industry issues and policy; has featured Mortgage Professionals Canada's CEO and mortgage-rate episodes.
Status: active · Toronto Regional Real Estate Board (TRREB)
Episodes
- 39 min
Where the Rental Market Stands
The Greater Toronto Area rental market is undergoing significant changes. After years of rent increases driven by high demand and low supply, we are now witnessing a shift towards softer rents and an increase in available units. In this episode, Tony Irwin, President and CEO of the Federation of Rental-Housing Providers of Ontario joins us to discuss the forces driving change in the rental market.
- 55 min
Before the Ballots: Housing Affordability and City Development
Explore key issues shaping municipal elections in the Greater Golden Horseshoe, including housing affordability, infrastructure, public safety, and regional governance. Jason Mercer sits down with journalist Jessica Smith Cross, radio talk show host Brian Crombie, and housing advocate Stephen Adler to discuss how these factors influence voter behavior and the future of our cities.
- 30 min
Getting the Sales Results You Want Through Self-Leadership
In this episode of Ready to Real Estate, host Jason Mercer, TRREB Chief Information Officer, welcomes Rebecca Mountain, an author, international keynote speaker and self-leadership engineer, for a practical conversation about mindset, action, and high-performance habits for REALTORS® to find the success they want.
- 31 min
Embrace the 90 Per Cent Philosophy
In this episode of Ready to Real Estate, TRREB President Daniel Steinfeld welcomes Darci Lang, a Canadian motivational speaker, trainer, and author, for an energizing conversation. They discuss Lang’s philosophy, which encourages people to focus on the positive 90 per cent of their lives and what they can control. Recorded at TRREB REALTOR® QUEST 2026 in front of a live audience, the discussion explores how intentional focus, self-awareness, and accountability can help people navigate challenges, build resilience, and create more meaningful connections both in their business and personal lives
- 34 min
What To Do When the Traditional Playbook Isn’t Working
In this episode of Ready to Real Estate, TRREB President Daniel Steinfeld speaks with the CEO of Red Apple Coaching, Mary-Anne Gillespie, about what REALTORS® should do when the traditional real estate playbook no longer works. Gillespie encourages agents to build relationship-based businesses, communicate with clients in meaningful ways, and focus on consistent, measurable lead generation instead of waiting for the market to change.
- 26 min
What REALTORS® Need to Know About Selling Tenanted Properties
In this episode of Ready to Real Estate, Jason Mercer, TRREB’s Chief Information Officer, speaks with licensed paralegal Bita Di Lisi about buying and selling tenanted properties in Ontario. From vacant possession and tenant rights to showings, cash-for-keys agreements, and what buyers inherit with an existing tenancy, Bita breaks down the risks, rules, and responsibilities REALTORS® and their clients need to understand.
- 31 min
Navigating Challenges and Elevating Standards
In this episode of Ready to Real Estate, TRREB President Daniel Steinfeld sits down with MindShare101 Founder David Greenspan for an engaging and candid conversation about navigating today’s market. From mindset, discipline, and pipeline to the role of AI, consistency, and professional standards, Greenspan shares why results come from structure, habits, and stronger human connection – not shortcuts. Together, they explore how agents can stay focused, build momentum, and raise the bar for the entire profession.
- 32 min
AI Do's, Don'ts, and Don't You Dare
In this episode of the Ready to Real Estate podcast, recorded in front of a live audience at REALTOR® QUEST 2026, TRREB Chief Information Officer Jason Mercer and Kevin Hawkins (aka the REAL AI Guy) explore how artificial intelligence is changing the real estate industry, with a focus on practical adoption, risk management, and using AI responsibly. Listen to this timely discussion on the opportunities and pitfalls of AI in real estate to gain valuable insight.
- 33 min
The Housing Market Story: How It’s Unfolding
What is the housing market story telling us so far in 2026, and how does it align with polling data predictions? In the latest episode of TRREB’s Ready to Real Estate podcast, host and TRREB Chief Information Officer Jason Mercer leads a timely discussion with Ipsos Senior Vice President Sean Simpson on the key factors shaping today’s market and what could unfold later this year and into early next year. Jason and Sean explore improved affordability, ongoing buyer hesitation, first-time homebuyer intentions, average down payments, intergenerational wealth transfer, shifting inventory condition
- 49 min
Can the City of Toronto Deliver on Its Housing Commitments?
Continuing momentum from the previous Ready to Real Estate podcast episode with Toronto’s Chief City Planner Jason Thorne, TRREB’s Chief Information Officer and podcast host Jason Mercer discuss the current state of housing policy in Toronto with Alex Behesti, Urban Planner and Land Economist, and Graig Uens, Urban Planner.
- 35 min
How Toronto’s Chief Planner is Tackling the Housing Crisis
Tune in to hear from Ready to Real Estate podcast host Jason Mercer, TRREB’s Chief Information Officer, discuss the pressing housing challenges in Toronto with Chief City Planner Jason Thorne. They explore the role of federal and municipal collaboration in addressing housing supply, the importance of land economics in planning, and the integration of new housing types into established neighbourhoods.
- 29 min
The Power of Mindful Leadership
Whether you’re managing a team, leading a brokerage, or simply looking to grow in your personal life, mindful leadership offers practical tools to navigate challenges with calm and clarity. Dr. Ellen Choi joined us to explore the transformative power of mindful leadership -leading with presence, awareness, and intention.
- 32 min
The Art of the Close: Scripting That Converts
The most effective scripts don’t sound like scripts at all. They’re natural, tailored, and build real connections. Mary-Anne Gillespie, Real Estate Coach, joins Jason Mercer, TRREB’s Chief Information Officer and podcast host, to share tips and tricks on crafting compelling and engaging scripts, how to customize them, and ultimately turn contacts into clients.
- 45 min
Behind the Scenes: A Conversation with Steve Paikin
TRREB CEO John DiMichele sits down with Steve Paikin, journalist and host of The Agenda on TVO, to discuss the shifting political landscape and practical implications for all levels of government, especially here in Ontario.
- 31 min
Blueprint for Success: Leveling Up Your Real Estate Business
Whether you’re a new agent building your foundation or a seasoned professional looking to grow your business, creating a business plan is essential. Sean Provencher, Founder and CEO of Endgame Coaching shares tips to help you develop a successful business plan, set goals and manage your time effectively. They also discuss technology tools REALTORS® can leverage to their advantage.
- 43 min
Affordability, Accessibility, and Cross Border Trade: Building a Stronger Toronto
Giles Gherson, President and CEO of Toronto Region Board of Trade, joins Jason Mercer, TRREB’s Chief Information Officer and podcast host on TRREB’s Ready to Real Estate podcast. In this episode, they dive into traffic congestion, public transit, and into pressing issues including traffic congestion, public transit and our trade relationship with the U.S. and what it will take to build a more connected, competitive and affordable region.
- 33 min
First Impressions Matter: How Home Staging Sells Faster & Yields Higher Offers
Home staging is more than decorating—it’s a strategic marketing tool that helps REALTORS® attract buyers, sell homes faster, and maximize property value. Professional home stager Nina Doiron shares expert tips to help your client’s home stand out, and how you can add home staging to your real estate business with guest podcast host TRREB President Elechia Barry-Sproule.
- 1 h 10 min
Impact of 2025 Provincial and Federal Elections on Toronto's Housing Progress
We’re bringing you an insightful panel discussion on how the federal and provincial elections could impact Toronto’s housing progress, the latest on US tariffs, and the broader implications of these developments. Moderated by Anna Michaelidis, TRREB Board of Director, the discussion features insights from Scott Reid, Political Analyst and Commentator; John Michael McGrath, Journalist, Host, and Producer at TVO; Stephen Adler, Senior Director of Public Affairs at NATIONAL Public Relations; and Dan Mader, Founding Partner at Loyalist Public Affairs.
- 33 min
2025 Housing Market Predictions: Expert Insights for REALTORS®
On February 5, TRREB released its 2025 Market Outlook and Year in Review. This is your go-to resource for understanding what’s next for the housing market. In this episode, Sean Simpson, Senior Vice President of Ipsos Public Affairs sits down with Jason Mercer, TRREB’s Chief Market Analyst and podcast host to break down emerging trends, buying and selling intentions, and what this means for the year ahead.
- 27 min
Florida Real Estate Uncovered: Insights on Growth and Challenges
Florida is a longtime sunshine destination for Canadians because of its attractive beaches and opportunities for year-round activities. Margy Grant, CEO of Florida REALTORS® joins guest host John DiMichele, CEO of TRREB, to discuss the dynamics of real estate in Florida, and how they’re working with policymakers to combat affordability and supply challenges in the Sunshine State.
- 32 min
From Policy to Possibility: How Mortgage Reforms are Making Homeownership Attainable
Unaffordability is a key driver for homebuyers and homeowners. That’s why we need to see more mortgage changes that allow flexibility. Lauren van den Berg, President and CEO of Mortgage Professionals Canada (MPC) joins TRREB’s Ready to Real Estate podcast host Jason Mercer to discuss the mortgage landscape and how MPC is working with all levels of government to implement reforms that will make homeownership more attainable for Canadians.
- 40 min
Unpacking Provincial Housing Commitments
On this episode of TRREB’s Ready to Real Estate podcast, we’re shifting focus to Queen’s Park to discuss Ontario’s recent efforts to combat the housing crisis. Learn how the passing of Bill 185 and the Provincial Policy Statement are set to tackle the housing shortage and improve affordability. Dive into the details with Steve Adler, Senior Director of Public Affairs at NATIONAL Public Relations, and John Michael McGrath, columnist, reporter, and podcaster at TVO.org with podcast host TRREB’s Chief Market Analyst, Jason Mercer.
- 42 min
Million Dollar Open House: Transforming Your Real Estate Career
Mary-Anne Gillespie, real estate coach, joins the Ready to Real Estate podcast with host Jason Mercer, TRREB’s Chief Market Analyst, to discuss open houses. Learn tips and strategies to help set you apart from the competitive market, engage buyers, and build a rapport with potential clients.
- 33 min
AI Empowered REALTOR®
How is AI reshaping the future of real estate? Sean Provencher, Founder and CEO of Endgame Coaching, sits down with Ready to Real Estate podcast host Jason Mercer, TRREB’s Chief Market Analyst, to discuss how to effectively navigate AI and how REALTORS® can harness the power of this new technology.
- 44 min
Lessons in Leadership and Resilience with Monty Moran
Catch Monty Moran, former CEO of Chipotle on TRREB’s Ready to Real Estate podcast and discover inspiring insights on leadership, empowerment, and building a culture focusing on curiosity, love, and vulnerability. Dive into this impactful and enlightening conversation with podcast hosts TRREB CEO John DiMichele and TRREB President Jennifer Pearce.
- 26 min
Timeless Tactics: Martha Stewart’s Guide for REALTORS®
Tune in to this exclusive Ready to Real Estate podcast episode with TRREB CEO John DiMichele and TRREB President Jennifer Pearce alongside entrepreneur, best-selling author, and lifestyle icon Martha Stewart. Learn invaluable tips and strategies about staging and home décor, branding, client relationships, and so much more.
- 50 min
Approaching One Year as Mayor: Olivia Chow
With Olivia Chow approaching her first year as City of Toronto Mayor, discover how she is stepping up to the plate to address housing affordability. In this episode, TRREB’s Chief Market Analyst and podcast host sits down with two political experts breakdown what you need to know about her biggest wins and pitfalls.
- 22 min
Dos and Don’ts for Buying and Selling Cottages
Have a client selling a cherished-family cottage or looking to buy a weekend getaway? In this episode, TRREB’s Chief Market Analyst and podcast host Jason Mercer sits down with real estate lawyer Richard Moran to dive into riparian rights, deeded accesses, title insurance, plus more on water quality and septic systems for cottages.
- 20 min
Navigating Tenanted Properties as a REALTOR®
Gain a strong understanding of the complexities of tenanted properties as a REALTOR® – no matter which side of the transaction you are on. Licensed paralegal Bita Di Lisi joins TRREB’s Chief Market Analyst and host Jason Mercer to talk about the crucial role REALTORS® play in navigating tenanted properties.
- 17 min
What’s Next for New and Resale Homes in the GTA?
If you have a client in the market for a new or resale home, discover what lies ahead for mortgage rates, where supply is headed, and where buying and selling intentions stand. In this episode, TRREB Chief Market Analyst Jason Mercer; Ray Wong, Vice President of Data Operations, Altus Group; and Sean Simpson, Senior Vice President of Ipsos Public Affairs give you exclusive insights from TRREB’s 2024 Market Outlook Year in Review report.
- 35 min
The REALTORS® Who Will Thrive in a ChatGPT Future
Artificial intelligence (or AI) is disrupting the future of work on a massive scale. AI-driven tools have passed the United States bar exam and written articles that are published in peer-reviewed journals. To talk about how AI and digital tools like ChatGPT can help REALTORS® build their businesses Chris Linsell, a technology analyst, content strategist, and licensed REALTOR®, joins Ready to Real Estate host and TRREB Chief Market Analyst Jason Mercer
- 34 min
Why Every REALTOR® Should Consider Podcasting
One in four Canadians now listens to an average of five podcasts per week. With podcasts surging in popularity, savvy REALTORS® have found a new way to stand out from the crowd and deepen trust in their brand. To share the business case for podcasting, along with insider tips for creating and promoting a podcast, Doug Downs, President of Stories and Strategies, joins Ready to Real Estate host and TRREB Chief Market Analyst Jason Mercer.
- 37 min
The Body Language that Builds Trust or Exposes Lies
REALTORS® who can’t decode the body language of their clients might miss critical clues that would help them land a sale or negotiate a better deal. To crack the code of this “secret second language,” Ready to Real Estate host and TRREB Chief Market Analyst Jason Mercer speaks with Pamela Barnum, a non-verbal communication expert and trust strategist. The former undercover police officer shares communication insights, tactics, and techniques that will help REALTORS® build trust with clients and detect deception.
- 29 min
What’s in Store for TRESA Phase 2?
Phase two of the Trust in Real Estate Services Act is coming into force on Friday, December 1, 2023. Are you prepared? In this informative episode, Ready to Real Estate host and TRREB Chief Market Analyst Jason Mercer is joined by real estate lawyer Mark Weisleder to cover everything you need to know. From a legal perspective, TRESA is the biggest change to Ontario real estate in over twenty years and it impacts the day-to-today business of all REALTORS®.
- 38 min
How “Brand Hysteria” Built Johnny Cupcakes
Johnny Cupcakes calls himself a “brand hysteria expert,” and it’s no exaggeration. He grew a business selling t-shirts from the back of a car into an international brand worth millions. REALTORS® looking to make their mark with a unique, personal, and fun approach to marketing will get inspired as Johnny shares his creative approach to building brand loyalty with Ready to Real Estate host and TRREB Chief Market Analyst Jason Mercer.
- 1 h 3 min
Post Mayoral Election: Building the GTA’s Next Chapter
Earlier this year, Olivia Chow was elected as the 66th mayor of Toronto. During the second installment in our series on the mayoral by-election, host and TRREB Chief Market Analyst Jason Mercer leads an insightful discussion examining how the GTA’s next chapter is unfolding. This hour-long deep dive examines Mayor Chow and city council’s plans to address the housing affordability crisis, taxation, revenue tools, and much more. Jason is joined by Steve Adler, Mike Layton, and May Warren.
- 34 min
Break Free from Negative Thinking to Live Your Best Life
Stress and negative thoughts lead to self-doubt. They hold people back from living their best lives. Change is possible and change seekers can work to replace negative thoughts with positive ones, breaking harmful cycles. Learn how to find deeper wellness and combat stress and negative thinking with this conversation between clinical psychologist and author Dr. Monica Vermani and Ready to Real Estate host and TRREB Chief Market Analyst Jason Mercer.
- 23 min
Boost Your Brand Online, Get More Leads
For REALTORS® wanting to build a new brand online or boost the brand they have, where should you start? Is it possible to build a premium brand at a freemium price? Marki Lemons-Ryhal, a licensed managing broker, REALTOR®, and best-selling author, sits down with Ready to Real Estate host and TRREB Chief Market Analyst Jason Mercer to offer step-by-step guidance about how to use social media platforms and other online tools to get more leads.
- 28 min
Which Work Cultures Beat Burnout?
We’re emerging from the worst of the COVID-19 pandemic. Even so, pandemic-thinking continues to guide the leaders of many organizations, pushing stressed employees closer to burnout. Employees are asked to do “more with less” and work at a chaotic pace. Bestselling author, marketer, and speaker Hamza Khan talks to Ready to Real Estate host and TRREB Chief Market Analyst Jason Mercer about the factors leading to burnout and how progressive leaders can help employees avoid exhaustion and thrive instead.
- 37 min
The Power of a Diverse and Inclusive Workplace
Organizations with diverse and inclusive cultures can attract, hire, and retain the best talent. So why do people from racialized and marginalized communities continue facing barriers to belonging at so many workplaces? Hadiya Roderique, an award-winning journalist and assistant professor of journalism at the University of Toronto Scarborough, with a PhD in Organizational Behaviour and Human Resources Management, joins Ready to Real Estate host and TRREB Chief Market Analyst Jason Mercer to discuss how organizations can become more inclusive.
- 1 h 4 min
Toronto By-Election 2023: Roundtable on Housing Affordability
On June 26, Toronto will hold a by-election to elect its new mayor, and housing affordability has been a hot topic on the campaign trail. During this special hour-long episode, Ready to Real Estate host and TRREB Chief Market Analyst Jason Mercer leads a roundtable discussion about what the priorities for Toronto’s next mayor and city council should be when it comes to housing. Jason is joined by Karen Stintz, Michael Coteau, Michael Giles, and Stephen Adler.
- 27 min
Sealing the Deal on Pre-Construction Purchases
How does buying a pre-construction property, be it a condo or single-family home, differ from buying a home on the resale market? Buyers wanting to avoid painful or expensive surprises need to understand the differences. David Young, TRREB instructor and real estate lawyer with Sorbara Law, joins TRREB Chief Market Analyst Jason Mercer to break down the purchasing process and key dates, along with final closing costs and what buyers and their REALTORS® can do to reduce them.
- 27 min
Buying and Selling Tenanted Properties, the Legal Way
How can buyers, sellers, and real estate agents stay on the right side of the law when dealing with tenanted properties? Bita di Lisi — property manager, real estate broker, licensed paralegal, and owner of Stonegate Legal Services — sits down with Ready to Real Estate host and TRREB Chief Market Analyst Jason Mercer to explain the legal options a landlord has when selling a tenanted property, what buyers of tenanted properties should expect, and more.
- 30 min
Housing Newcomers: Where Will Record-Levels of New Immigrants Live?
Over the next three years, the federal government plans to welcome nearly 500,000 new immigrants a year to Canada. Where will these newcomers live? And what will it mean for the cost of home ownership and rental units in an already tight market? To answer these questions and talk about how governments can fix the supply problem, Dr Frank Clayton of the Centre for Urban Research and Development joins host and TRREB Chief Market Analyst Jason Mercer.
- 29 min
Demand for Home Ownership Rising: Market Trends to Watch in 2023
An uncertain economic outlook, high inflation, and rising interest rates challenged home buyers, sellers, and owners in 2022. How did this past year impact the real estate market? And how is it shaping market trends for 2023? Sean Simpson, Senior Vice President at Ipsos Public Affairs, joins Ready to Real Estate host and TRREB Chief Market Analyst Jason Mercer to dig into the data from the latest consumer polling.
- 29 min
Lights, Camera, Action: YouTube for REALTORS®
Potential homebuyers often turn to social media and YouTube to do research, where they can find a wealth of helpful content from REALTORS®. If you’re thinking about developing or improving your marketing strategy and online presence, this episode is a must-listen. REALTOR® and YouTube expert Karin Carr joins host and TRREB Chief Market Analyst Jason Mercer. They discuss how to start your own YouTube channel, make the most of your content, get over being camera-shy, and more.
- 30 min
BoC’s Mortgage Rate Increases and the GTA Real Estate Market
The last three years have seen unprecedented economic and social changes due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As we near the holidays, it’s an ideal time to look back at the highlights of 2022 and forward to what 2023 might hold. Rob McLister, interest rate analyst, mortgage rate planner, Globe and Mail mortgage columnist, and editor of MortgageLogic.news, joins Ready to Real Estate host and TRREB Chief Market Analyst Jason Mercer to talk about the impact of the Bank of Canada’s interest rate hikes on mortgages, the housing market, and more.
- 35 min
Fireside Chat with Mayor John Tory
Ahead of the municipal election on October 24, TRREB hosted a fireside chat with Mayor John Tory to discuss issues facing voters, including housing supply, infrastructure, development, inter-governmental cooperation, and how the city can support sustainable growth. Tory is hopeful that if reelected, he can continue the projects that are in the works and initiate new ones—to promote the development of diverse housing options and take care of aging infrastructure, among others. Join Ready to Real Estate host Jason Mercer around the fire before getting out to vote!
- 24 min
Housing Supply Solutions and the Municipal Election
The municipal election is coming up on October 24, and it is vital that we have local governments committed to addressing the housing crisis. Join Craig Ruttan, Senior Director of Policy at the Toronto Region Board of Trade (TRBOT), in conversation with Ready to Real Estate podcast host and TRREB Chief Market Analyst Jason Mercer as they consider the issues and potential housing solutions that municipal governments could implement.
- 23 min
Why Choosing a TRREB Member REALTOR® Is the Smart Choice
For many, buying a home is the most important and biggest financial decision they will ever make. So, it makes sense to go into the home buying and selling process with the support and expertise of a TRREB Member and the protections they offer, guaranteed by law. Join Ready to Real Estate host and TRREB Chief Market Analyst Jason Mercer in conversation with TRREB President Kevin Crigger as they discuss how partnering with a TRREB Member can set you up for success.
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Directory compiled 2026-10-28. Details come from public listings and the show’s own feed.