The Journey of a Real Estate Investor

Josh Perez • July 20, 2024

I recognize that I was very fortunate to get into real estate when I did, but like anyone who's invested in real estate, when following a system and the fundamentals of real estate, particularly focusing on cash flow, things can snowball quickly. What started as investing in duplexes soon expanded to triplexes, the occasional flip, and eventually mixed-use properties and apartment buildings. Now, I'm venturing into a bit of development.


My investments span from Florida to local projects, with a strong emphasis on multifamily and cash-flowing assets. Beyond these, I've also explored some other asset types, but multifamily properties have been the cornerstone of my real estate portfolio. Currently, I manage about 90 doors, and with a few deals in the works, I’m hopeful to double that number in the coming months.


I share this journey because I want to emphasize that I have skin in the game. I’m working toward the same goals as many of you. I'm not just a mortgage broker or a financing person trying to administer transactions. I'm continually seeking the next best approach for my investment portfolio and my financial goals. At Synergy, our value add is sharing our experience and what we’re seeing in the market to help you succeed.


By focusing on cash flow and leveraging the fundamentals of real estate, you too can see your investments grow. Whether you’re just starting or looking to expand your portfolio, the key is consistency, diligence, and a keen eye for opportunities. Together, we can navigate the real estate landscape and achieve our investment goals.


If you’re interested in learning more about my journey or want to discuss your investment strategies, feel free to reach out. Let's work together to build a robust and profitable real estate portfolio.

"I have skin in the game. I'm not just a mortgage broker or a financing person trying to administer transactions. I'm still looking for the next best approach for my investment portfolio and my goals, and our value add at Synergy is really about sharing our experience and what we're seeing in the market."

Josh Perez
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What You Need to Know About Mortgages and Parental Leave

By Josh Perez • July 8, 2026
If the title of this article caught your attention, chances are your family is growing. Congratulations. If you’re thinking now is the right time to move into a home that better fits your growing family—but you’re unsure how parental leave affects your ability to qualify for a mortgage—you’re in the right place. Here’s the good news. Qualifying for a mortgage while on parental leave is possible when it’s done correctly. When you work with an independent mortgage professional, lenders can often qualify you based on your return-to-work income , as long as you can provide documentation confirming you have guaranteed employment waiting for you. A word of caution If you walk into a bank branch and disclose that you’re currently on parental leave, there’s a chance the bank will only allow you to qualify using your parental leave income. That can significantly reduce your borrowing power. Parental leave income is typically limited to 55% of your previous earnings, up to a weekly maximum. Qualifying on that amount alone can restrict your options and impact the type of home you can purchase. Why lender choice matters One of the biggest advantages of working with an independent mortgage professional is choice . You’re not limited to one lender’s rules or products. Some lenders will allow you to qualify using 100% of your confirmed return-to-work income , which can make a meaningful difference in your approval amount and overall options. What you’ll need to qualify Most lenders will require an employment letter that includes: Employer name (preferably on company letterhead) Your job title Original start date (to confirm probation has been completed) Confirmed return-to-work date Guaranteed salary upon return Lenders want reassurance that your income will resume once parental leave ends. You may also be asked to provide income history from the past couple of years, which is standard for most mortgage applications. One important note Whether or not you actually return to work after parental leave is entirely your decision. From a mortgage perspective, qualification is based on having a confirmed position available to you at the time of approval. If you have questions about qualifying for a mortgage while on parental leave—or anything mortgage-related—please connect anytime. I’d be happy to walk you through your options and help you plan with confidence.
Suburban two-story house with a front porch, two-car garage, and a large tree-lined lawn.

Gifted Down Payment in Ontario? Don't Skip This Step

By Josh Perz • July 7, 2026
Using a gifted down payment to buy a home in Ontario? Learn exactly what lenders require — and the common mistakes that can delay or derail your approval.