The podcast provides a detailed discussion on the pros and cons of using a home equity line of credit (HELOC) to invest in real estate, emphasizing several key points:

Pros of Using a HELOC for Investment:

Access to Funds: For many Canadians, leveraging home equity might be their only accessible source of investment capital without waiting for savings to accumulate.
Flexibility: HELOCs offer flexibility in accessing funds when needed, which can be useful for opportunities like the BRRRR strategy (Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, Repeat).
Potential for Returns: If managed properly, the borrowed funds can generate returns that exceed the cost of borrowing, making the investment profitable.

Risks and Considerations:

Cost of Borrowing: HELOC interest rates can be high (e.g., prime + 2.5%), cutting into potential returns.
It’s essential to factor in HELOC payments when calculating the project’s profitability.
Exchange Rate Challenges: When using Canadian HELOC funds to invest in the U.S., fluctuating exchange rates and transfer fees can complicate calculations and reduce returns.

Risk of Over-Leverage: Relying heavily on HELOC funds without a solid repayment plan can lead to financial stress, especially if the project timeline extends or returns underperform.
Tax Implications: For Canadian tax purposes, HELOC interest is only deductible if it's used exclusively for investment. Mixing personal and investment expenses in the same account can lead to complications with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).

Practical Advice:

Plan for Repayment:

Treat HELOC funds like private loans with a clear repayment strategy, such as refinancing or proceeds from a profitable project.
Clean Accounting: Keep HELOC transactions for investments separate from personal use to simplify tax reporting and avoid disputes with the CRA.
Assess Alternatives: Consider other funding options, like U.S.-based loans for U.S. investments, which might offer higher leverage and potentially better rates despite their own risks.

Know Your Numbers: Accurately calculate the costs, including HELOC interest, exchange rate fluctuations, and potential tax implications, to ensure the investment will generate net positive returns.

Vet Partners: When partnering on projects, ensure you understand where your partner’s funding is coming from, as their financial pressures could indirectly affect the project.

Final Thoughts:

Using a HELOC for real estate investment can work well if the numbers align and risks are understood. However, it’s crucial to have a solid financial plan, conservative assumptions, and clarity about all associated costs to make informed decisions.

EP175 How DO You Invest Using a HELOC

In this episode of "Canadian Investing in the US," host Glen Sutherland interviews Brett Henry, a real estate broker in the Dominican Republic. 

Originally from Saskatchewan, Canada, Brett transitioned from a 20-year career as a police officer to becoming a successful entrepreneur in real estate. 

He shares his journey of moving to the Dominican Republic after investing in a bar, which eventually led him to explore opportunities in real estate.

Brett discusses the unique real estate landscape in the Dominican Republic, emphasizing the importance of having a knowledgeable broker due to the lack of a centralized MLS system. 

He co-founded his brokerage, RealtordR.com, with a focus on quality marketing and providing up-to-date listings to cater to Canadian and American buyers. 

Brett highlights the economic advantages of investing in the Dominican Republic, including the country's stability, safety, and the rights of foreign investors to own property outright.

Throughout the conversation, Brett touches on various topics, such as the appeal of the north coast of the Dominican Republic, the vibrant expat community, and the country's diverse economy, which includes gold mining and agriculture.

 He explains the process of obtaining mortgages in the DR, noting that while financing is available, substantial down payments are required.

Brett also shares insights into the local culture, the benefits of living in the Dominican Republic, and the potential for profitable rental income through short-term rentals like Airbnb.

 He encourages listeners to consider the lifestyle advantages of moving to the DR, emphasizing the friendly atmosphere and low cost of living.

In closing, Brett invites those interested in exploring real estate opportunities in the Dominican Republic to reach out, providing his contact information and encouraging potential investors to experience the region for themselves.

EP371 Investing in the Dominican Republic- Insights from Real Estate Broker Brett Henry

In this conversation, Brady shares the powerful mindset shift that helped him level up: you're either learning or earning, but rarely both at once. 

He explains that growth often comes through discomfort, whether it’s financial loss, stress, or failure. The key is to not quit during the learning phase, as that’s what ultimately leads to the big wins. Drawing from his experience in real estate, Brady describes how he built his skills by severing large lots in Ontario and navigating local zoning codes — a practice that later scaled into high-profit land entitlement deals across the U.S. through his company, The Barefoot Land Co., which focuses on sourcing undervalued land and securing zoning approvals for self-storage developments. 

He emphasizes the transferability of skills: the same zoning principles that yielded $200K deals in Canada can produce million-dollar profits in the U.S. if applied correctly. The final part of the discussion focuses on execution. Brady stresses that many real estate investors fail because they act like hobbyists, not operators — they lack systems, teams, and processes. To help others avoid that fate, he runs a free weekly accountability huddle called “0 to 100,” where aspiring investors can stay consistent, ask questions, and build alongside others. 

He encourages people to start small, build foundational knowledge, and surround themselves with a community of doers to accelerate growth and stay accountable.

EP372 You're Either Learning or Earning The Hard Truth About Building Wealth w Brady McDonald

In this insightful podcast interview, Glen speaks with experts about the E2 visa process, offering invaluable advice for Canadians interested in launching or expanding their businesses in the U.S. They delve into key topics such as the essential elements of a successful business plan, the importance of creating jobs, and the flexibility of the E2 visa for those looking to buy or build businesses across various industries. From property management to consulting firms, the conversation highlights the diverse opportunities available, including the option to bring essential employees from Canada. They also tackle common concerns about U.S. immigration and the border process, offering reassurance to Canadians considering the E2 route. Whether you're thinking of relocating or running a business remotely, this episode provides crucial insights for anyone looking to navigate the U.S. business landscape through the E2 visa.

EP373 E2 Visa Secrets How Canadians Can Build a Thriving U.S. Business Filomena Maimone

In this episode, Glen Sutherland and Kristopher McEvoy dive into the potential impact of proposed U.S. tax legislation on Canadian investors with U.S. assets. They discuss why proper investment structuring is more important than ever, the risks of increased withholding taxes, and how treaty changes could affect future returns. Kristopher shares why working with cross-border tax professionals is essential and offers practical strategies to help Canadians stay compliant, tax-efficient, and prepared for international policy shifts.

EP374 The Big Beautiful Bill What U.S. Tax Changes Mean for Canadian Investors Kristopher McEvoy

EP375 The Remote Real Estate Investor with Steve Pletz

Glen Sutherland welcomes back Marcin Drozdz to share how his U.S. real estate journey has grown since his earlier appearances. Marcin talks about his shift from single-family homes to larger commercial deals, including industrial and multifamily properties. He shares valuable lessons on partnerships, deal structures, lender challenges, and the importance of staying flexible.

The episode also dives into mindset, risk, and how building the right network can accelerate success. Marcin explains how taking action—even when things aren’t perfect—can lead to incredible growth and opportunities.

A must-listen for Canadian investors exploring U.S. real estate!

EP376 The Mindset Shift Behind Marcin Drozdz’s Real Estate Success

In this episode, Glen Sutherland chats with Lindsey Davis, CEO of Spartan Invest, about why Alabama is becoming a prime rental market for out-of-state and international investors. Lindsey explains how Alabama’s low property taxes, landlord-friendly laws, and affordable turnkey properties create an ideal environment for real estate investors.

They also dive into the state’s strong economy, population growth, and how Spartan Invest’s full-service model offers a truly hands-off experience. If you're looking for cash flow and long-term stability in the U.S. market, this episode is packed with valuable insights.

🎧 Tune in now to discover why Alabama might be your next great investment opportunity.

EP377 What Canadian Investors Need to Know About Alabama Real Estate with Lindsay Davis

In this episode, Glen Sutherland talks with financial advisor and author John De Goey about how common behavioral biases—like confirmation bias, loss aversion, and overconfidence—can quietly influence our money choices. John shares real-life examples and practical tips to help investors become more self-aware and make smarter financial decisions.

Learn how your mindset might be shaping your financial future more than you realize.

EP378 Phychological Vices that Keep Most People Repeating Bad Wealth Decisions w John De Goey

In this episode, Glen Sutherland chats with Linda Holtz about her inspiring path from managing other people’s properties to co-founding M2RE (Married to Real Estate) with her husband.

Linda shares how she started with single-family homes, moved into passive syndications, and then took the leap into active ownership — all while staying true to her values of transparency and relationship-building.

They also talk about how she met her husband (thanks to his mom on a girls’ trip!) and how their shared background in property management became the foundation for their business.

🎧 Key takeaways:
✔️ Start small and grow with experience
✔️ Why honesty builds trust with investors
✔️ The power of complementary skills in a partnership

EP380 How One Girls’ Trip to Cancun Sparked a Real Estate Empire with Linda Holtz

In this episode, Glen Sutherland is joined by his personal accountant, Kristopher McEvoy, a Canadian CPA specializing in cross-border taxation. Kristopher works with clients investing in U.S. real estate, as well as those relocating or expanding businesses between Canada and the U.S.

The discussion centers around a frequently asked question: what’s the most efficient way for Canadians to pay themselves from their U.S. real estate or business income?

Kristopher explains that the answer depends on the ownership structure:

If using a U.S. Limited Partnership (LP):
You’re taxed annually on profits—not on withdrawals—so taking money out has no further tax consequences.

If using a U.S. Corporation:
Paying yourself personally via dividends or payroll can be highly tax inefficient, with a potential combined tax burden of up to 50–60%.
A more efficient strategy involves using a Canadian corporation to own the U.S. corporation, enabling:

Management fees

Interest charges

Intercompany dividends (typically subject to only 5% U.S. withholding tax under the current tax treaty)

EP175 How DO You Invest Using a HELOC

The Real Estate Round Table

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