About The Host

Ron is a BCIN designer, and LEED AP BD+C, that holds an advance diploma in Architectural Design for Humber College and a Honours Bachelor in Construction Manager from George Brown College. 

He co-founded Property Pathways Inc. along with his wife, and business partner, Jeannie and he has worked extensively on architectural designs for duplexes, triplexes, and multi-family residential conversions. 

As the Director within the construction division of Property Pathways, Ron and his team had the opportunity to renovate dozens of small-scale development projects in the GTAH between 2019 & 2022 before he returned to focus primarily on assisting clients with design. His vision is to promote existing technology like BIM, VDC, IPD and VR to enhance building process.

Without the professional demands of Construction Management, Ron was able to hone his skillset and added Small-Scale Developer to his repertoire. Through a collaborative joint venture on a mixed-use-to-residential conversion project, with a private road development; he now uses his small-scale development experience to be a professional guide by assisting new and savvy Real Estate Investors who are interested in extending their portfolios into the multi-family sector with their design, renovation, and construction strategy.

His knowledge of zoning by-laws and the building permit process allows him to work effectively with building departments, zoning departments and other governing bodies. With many successful applications for building permit approval , committee of adjustment variances, conservation permission, heritage preservation and Ontario Land Tribunal hearing, it is safe to say he know his stuff.

Ron’s personality makes him a much-loved individual amongst his family, friends, and colleagues. He is considered the life of the party, no matter the venue or attendees. His future ambitions are to become a real estate developer and entrepreneur that provides sustainable and attainable housing options to communities throughout Ontario.

Ronald De Coteau

Message from the Host

Our Suite Spot Podcast offers you, the listener, an inside look at the world of small-scale real estate development. Glean invaluable advice from top experts and entrepreneurs in the field, including what to watch out for when selecting a property and structuring your deal. With our tips and tricks, success is within reach!

FAQ

A small-scale real estate development is a project that addresses the need for the “missing middle housing”. It often includes a combination of mixed-use, small multi-family residential buildings, such as duplexes, triplex, and fourplexes. These can take the form of infill developments, brownfield development, building or land change of use. These small-scale developments are not limited to a single project and can be set up as subdivisions. In some cases small-scale real estate development will carry a component of commercial office buildings, retail stores, restaurants, and other retail spaces. Small scale real estate developments, as the name suggests, are typically developed on limited budgets versus a larger scale development.

Start with your property assessment on Google Maps and use street view to have a look at the property.
Google Street View has a neat option that rewinds the hands of time. It is great to view the community
as it was in the past.
The next is the municipality’s GIS map. This map can be found in the planning section of the City Official
website or by simply, “googling” the city name + interactive map.

There are skills that a developer should know enough about to be able to make decisions before engaging other professionals. These range from site selections, planning and permitting, to financing and construction management. But without attempting to create an exhaustive list, here are some core skills.

  • Zoning Bylaw Knowledge
  • Deal Structure & Proformas
  • Assembly a Team of Professionals
  • Construction Management
  • Property Management
  • Verbal and Written Communication