Changing economic conditions and different tenant preferences are having a considerable impact on the commercial real estate market. Transformational shifts are taking place in how buildings are used, valued and transacted.
Increasing financing costs have made it challenging for real estate companies to raise capital and move projects forward. Construction and labour costs also have been on the rise. These factors have contributed to project delays and, in some cases, cancellations. Both lenders and investors have become more cautious in this environment. Some owners have taken their property off the market, awaiting more favourable conditions.
The focus of most tenants continues to be on flexible office space, including robust and versatile electronic and virtual connectivity to facilitate hybrid working arrangements while landlords prioritize environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues to meet regulatory and stakeholder demands. Real estate companies must have good processes in place to produce reliable data in these areas.
How we can help
Osler’s team of dedicated real estate lawyers and law clerks offer unparalleled knowledge and understanding of the complex needs of the Canadian market’s retail, office, industrial, multi-res, hospitality, development and seniors housing sectors. We have the experience and the capability to successfully manage complicated, multi-property deals across Canada with multiple participants and lenders. The group has a wide range of domestic and international clients, including REITs, pension funds, manufacturers, retailers, institutional lenders, seniors housing operators, hospitality operators, developers and mortgage lenders.
We regularly work with teams from other groups in the firm, including capital markets, tax, alternative investment, corporate, construction, environmental, ESG, infrastructure, insolvency, artificial intelligence and litigation, allowing us to spot issues and collaboratively provide practical solutions. Osler has represented a diverse set of clients in litigation related to such areas as construction, franchising and real estate leasing.
Our clients increasingly need specialized help, whether with complex transactions, government funding initiatives, commercial lease disputes, bankruptcy matters, expropriations or planning and development matters. We are proud of our reputation as successful negotiators and creative problem solvers who provide excellent service. The long-term relationships we build with our clients are based on trust and a thorough understanding of our clients’ needs and the complexities of the Canadian real estate sector.
Areas of Focus
Key Contacts
Partner, Real Estate, Toronto
Latest Insights
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Osler Update October 24, 2025
Moving fast and building things
The Ontario government is seeking feedback on a range of initiatives with the goal of speeding up the building of housing and infrastructure.
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Osler Update October 14, 2025
Simplifying the execution of notarized obligations: a new mechanism under Québec law
A recently introduced draft regulation marks significant changes to the current framework in Québec.
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Osler Update June 25, 2025
Competition Bureau releases updated guidance on enforcement approach to property controls
The CPC Guidance published by the Competition Bureau advocates that firms use property controls only where justified.
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Osler Update May 13, 2025
Ontario government proposes Bill 17 to advance home-building target
Bill 17 proposes a suite of changes to municipal statutes with the stated goal of removing unnecessary barriers to building.
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Stay up to date with our latest insights
SubscribeAwards and Recognition
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Recognized in Real Estate (Nationwide; Ontario; Alberta, Quebec).
—Chambers Canada: Canada’s Leading Lawyers for Business: -
Recognized in Property Development (Toronto, Ontario); Property Leasing (Toronto, Ontario).
—The Canadian Legal Lexpert Directory: -
Recognized in Real Estate.
—Legal 500
In the Media
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Osler News September 3, 2025
Osler celebrates a decade of impact in Vancouver
Osler is proud to celebrate 10 years of growth and impact in British Columbia since the establishment of our Vancouver office in 2015.
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Osler News July 30, 2025
Solutions to Canada’s housing crisis: practical pathways for a resilient market
Canada’s housing market is facing a critical juncture, with persistent affordability challenges, supply shortages, and regulatory complexity...
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Osler News June 13, 2025
Osler recognized on BIV’s list of Biggest law firms in Metro Vancouver
Osler continues to grow and strengthen its presence in Vancouver, celebrating 10 years of excellence and innovation in the region. We are proud...
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Osler News February 20, 2025
Osler welcomes 14 new partners and three new counsel in 2025
Osler is pleased to announce the addition of 14 new partners and three new counsel across our offices in Toronto, Montréal, Calgary and Vancouver.
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