Vancouver Real Estate Podcast VREP #470 | From Real Estate Outsider to Real Estate Insider with Howard Chai
May 30, 2025
Howard Chai, a staff writer at stories.com and a prominent voice in Vancouver real estate journalism, shares his journey from skeptical renter to industry insider. He discusses the shocking realities behind developer bankruptcies, the crushing impact of high-interest rates on builders, and how these issues reflect broader market concerns. Howard also explores the evolving conversation around real estate investors and the complex interplay of politics and policy in the housing crisis, offering listeners a compelling insider's perspective.
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Howard's Journey into Journalism
- Howard Chai transitioned from computer science to journalism after discovering a passion for writing and the importance of news.
- He began covering real estate with no prior special interest but grew deeply invested in the topic over time.
Reality of Development Risks
- Developers face complex challenges beyond greed, including high borrowing costs and lender requirements.
- Real estate development is risky, with profit tied to pre-sale success and construction financing.
Dual Audience Journalism Approach
- Stories.com targets real estate industry professionals but also writes accessible content for the public.
- They cover technical topics in-depth while making jargon understandable to broaden audience awareness.
