The firm reached the milestone years ahead of its expectations
Equiton, a private equity firm, has announced its recent milestone of surpassing $1 billion in assets under management (AUM) a few years ahead of its expectations.
“We've made great strides in making institutional-grade private real estate investments more accessible to Canadians. We proudly look back on generating significant wealth for investors from all walks of life since Equiton's inception,” said Jason Roque, founder and CEO of Equiton.
The private equity firm has over 12,000 investors and managed 39 properties that had 2,752 units in 17 regions across the country. Its offerings included two private real estate funds, multiple development offerings, and an estimated completion value of $1.07 billion.
As Equiton reached its milestone and maintained positive returns to investors despite the trend of negative returns among traditional asset classes, the firm’s business model has proven its efficacy.
Its active approach into property management also focused on strategic improvements that will increase the value of properties. In 2023, the firm had invested over $5 million for the renovation of 479 suites at turnover.
Equiton was also able to actively develop multi-residential units in urban areas. Investors were able to receive the benefits of playing a role in building new housing supply as well as receiving returns upon the completion of the projects.
The firm had recently stated that it was focusing on ESG factors as a signatory of the Principles for Responsible Investment and through submissions to the Global Real Estate Sustainability Benchmark (GRESB).
“We're not just building properties; we're building communities with an eye to the future by employing energy-efficient systems, incorporating green spaces, and prioritizing the health and well-being of residents,” said Roque.
The firm had also played an important role in the Canadian Chamber of Commerce’s National Housing and Development Strategy Council, which aimed to create sustainable solutions in order to address the current housing crisis in the country.
Equiton is also set to partner with John Molson School of Business at Concordia University in 2024 in order to support innovative research into Canada’s real estate investment landscape.
