In this episode of Making It Without Faking It, we get real about what’s actually happening in Ottawa’s real estate market — beyond the headlines, hashtags, and hype.

From rising interest rates to shifting buyer behaviour, James breaks down what it really means to navigate the market in Fall 2025. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a seasoned investor, or a fellow agent trying to keep it authentic, this conversation cuts through the noise and brings you the truth about the Ottawa market — without the filters.

We dive into:

🏡 The “new normal” for rates and inventory

💬 The biggest myths buyers and sellers still believe

💡 Where the real opportunities are hiding

❤️ Why staying authentic matters more than ever in this business

This is real talk for real people — because making it in real estate isn’t about faking it.

🎧 Tune in, share it with someone who needs to hear it, and follow for more unfiltered insights from the front lines of Ottawa real estate.

In this episode of Making It Without Faking It, we dive into what’s really happening in the market right now — the trends, the shifts, and what they mean for staying competitive in today’s real estate game. We share some fresh, behind-the-scenes stories from recent transactions: the wins, the challenges, and what they taught us about keeping clients happy in a shifting landscape.

We also open up about what keeps us motivated when the market tests your patience, and how to keep your edge when everyone’s fighting for the same deals. And because we’re all about balance, we wrap things up with our thoughts on the new F1 movie — why it fired us up, what we loved, and what we’d do differently if we were behind the wheel.

Whether you’re a fellow agent, an investor, or just love a good real-talk chat, this one’s for you. Tune in, stay sharp, and remember: keep making it — no faking it.

In the latest episode of *Making It Without Faking It*, titled **"Emotional Wealth,"** the hosts delve into the often-overlooked aspect of success—emotional well-being. The episode explores how true fulfillment isn’t just about financial stability or career achievements but also about cultivating deep, meaningful relationships with oneself and others.

### **Key Takeaways:**

1. **Defining Emotional Wealth**

- The hosts discuss how emotional wealth goes beyond happiness—it’s about resilience, self-awareness, and the ability to navigate life’s ups and downs with grace.

- Unlike material wealth, emotional wealth is built through introspection, vulnerability, and authentic connections.

2. **The Myth of "Having It All"**

- Many people chase external success, assuming it will bring emotional fulfillment, only to find themselves feeling empty.

- The episode features interviews with professionals who achieved career milestones but realized they were emotionally depleted, prompting them to reprioritize self-care and relationships.

3. **Practical Tools for Building Emotional Wealth**

- **Self-Reflection:** Journaling, therapy, and mindfulness practices help in understanding emotional needs.

- **Boundaries:** Learning to say no and protecting mental energy is crucial.

- **Community:** Investing in relationships that nurture rather than drain you.

4. **Vulnerability as Strength**

- The hosts share personal stories about overcoming the fear of being "too emotional" in professional spaces.

- They challenge the stigma that emotions are a sign of weakness, arguing instead that emotional intelligence is a superpower.

5. **Long-Term vs. Short-Term Gratification**

- Instant gratification (like retail therapy or social media validation) is contrasted with long-term emotional investments (like therapy, deep friendships, and personal growth).

### **Final Thoughts**

"Emotional Wealth" is a refreshing reminder that success isn’t just about what we achieve but how we feel along the way. The episode encourages listeners to audit their emotional health just as they would their finances—because, in the end, a rich life is one filled with purpose, connection, and inner peace.

**Rating: 5/5** – A thought-provoking, heartfelt episode that balances personal anecdotes with actionable advice.

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In this episode, we explore how real estate, tariffs, and politics intersect, shaping lives and economies. Rising interest rates, inflation, and shifting demographics are reshaping housing markets, while tariffs on materials like steel and lumber drive up costs, impacting affordability. Political decisions, from zoning laws to tax incentives, further influence the landscape.

Amid these challenges, personal stories of resilience shine through. Families overcome financial hurdles to buy homes, and entrepreneurs adapt to competitive markets, proving that perseverance and creativity can lead to success.

**Key Takeaways:**

1. Understanding local markets and staying patient is crucial in volatile times.

2. Tariffs ripple through supply chains, affecting costs for consumers and businesses.

3. Advocacy and informed decision-making are vital for navigating policy changes.

**Call to Action:**

Have you faced challenges in real estate, tariffs, or politics? Share your story using #MakingItWithoutFakingIt and join the conversation about building a brighter future together.

“In this episode of Making It Without Faking It, Chris and James take a deep dive into the ripple effects of tariffs on the real estate market. From higher construction costs to shifts in buyer behavior, we’ll explore what these changes mean for professionals and homeowners alike. Plus, we’re sharing strategies to stay competitive in an evolving landscape and reminding everyone why it’s so important to pause, reflect, and enjoy the moment—even in the midst of challenges. Tune in for actionable insights and a fresh perspective!”

The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and connection—but it’s also filled with distractions, temptations, and stressors that can derail our personal and professional commitments. In this episode of Making It Without Faking It, we explore how to stay grounded, authentic, and focused during this busy time of year.

In this episode of *Making It Without Faking It*, titled **"Moving Forward"**, the conversation centers on how to progress in life even when faced with obstacles, uncertainty, or fear. The host discusses the importance of forward momentum and not letting past setbacks or current challenges hold you back.

Listeners will hear personal anecdotes and insights about navigating transitions—whether in career, relationships, or personal growth. The host breaks down key strategies for embracing change, such as setting clear, attainable goals, cultivating resilience, and developing a growth mindset. The episode emphasizes that progress isn’t always linear, but the act of continually moving forward is what builds strength and character.

Chris and James share their own journeys of moving forward after personal or professional hurdles, offering tips on how to stay grounded, focused, and motivated during times of change. Whether it’s about pivoting in your career, overcoming personal losses, or breaking free from old patterns, the episode encourages listeners to take actionable steps to create a future they’re excited about.

This episode leaves listeners with an inspiring message: it’s okay to stumble or feel uncertain as long as you keep going. Every step forward, no matter how small, brings you closer to where you want to be.

In this episode, we dive into the principle of "making it without faking it" and explore how it applies to various facets of life and business. We discuss the importance of staying true to genuine effort and integrity, especially in the face of fluctuating market conditions, the temptation to slack off during holiday periods, and the complexities of navigating political landscapes.

First, we tackle the challenges posed by ever-changing market conditions. Discover how authentic success is built on resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to quality, rather than chasing quick profits. Learn how to invest in understanding market trends, conducting thorough research, and making informed decisions that foster trust with clients and stakeholders.

Next, we address the difficulty of maintaining focus during holidays when many are on break. Uncover strategies for staying productive and gaining a competitive edge, such as setting clear goals, using quieter periods for planning and strategizing, and focusing on personal development.

Finally, we delve into the political landscapes that can impact business environments. Understand how to engage in thoughtful advocacy, build relationships with policymakers, and align business practices with ethical standards, all while staying true to your principles and building a reputation for integrity.

Join us as we explore how making it without faking it leads to sustainable, fulfilling success that withstands the test of time and external pressures.