Partner Perspectives: Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA)

In September, the OLIP interns had the pleasure of meeting with our Partner, the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA), and two incredible OLIP alumni who now work at OREA: Jason Lagerquist, Head of Government Relations, and Dia Mukherjee, Government Relations and Communications Specialist. 

OREA is the professional body representing nearly 100,000 Realtors and 23 real estate boards across Ontario. Its mission encompasses “helping people find a great place to call home, work and thrive.” Beyond supporting its members, OREA plays a leading role in shaping the future of housing in the province.  

Our conversation with Jason and Dia was both engaging and insightful. We discussed OREA’s research on housing trends and policy advocacy for attainable homeownership. Specifically, we explored the concept of connectivity through Canada-US economic relations, transport-oriented communities, and housing objectives over the coming years as well as their trajectory and feasibility. The interns had the opportunity to delve into the nuances of OREA’s field and learn how the organization invests in training and leadership development to ensure realtors are well-equipped to serve their communities.  

As young professionals navigating the real estate landscape, we particularly appreciated hearing about OREA’s collaboration with the government to address housing affordability. Our conversation touched on the wide range of resources and tools OREA provides to help Ontarians achieve their dream of homeownership, and we had an open and refreshing discussion about the current housing market in Ontario and OREA’s vision for the future. It was fascinating to learn that OREA began as a small group in the 1920s and has grown into a province-wide association with nearly 100,000 members.  

We are sincerely grateful to Jason and Dia for taking the time to meet with us and share their expertise. Their guidance, insights, and encouragement mean a great deal to us as interns, and we are especially thankful for their generous support of the OLIP programme.