The Missing Middle Strategy with Paul Szkuc

The Savvy Investor Podcast

Let Us Know What You Thought Of The Episode

Ever driven past a run-down lot or a half-collapsed house and thought…“What a waste of space”?

Well, what if that “mess” is actually a goldmine?

In this episode of the Savvy Investor Podcast, host Michael Ponte sits down with Paul Szkuc, founder of Proximity Properties, to unpack one of the most underrated strategies in real estate right now: Missing Middle Development.

We’re talking about purpose-built rentals — duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes, even 6 or 8-plexes — that are perfectly sized for existing neighborhoods. They’re not massive towers, and they’re not single-family flips. These projects fill the gap that most investors ignore... and they’re gaining serious traction in today’s tight housing market.

Inside the episode:

• What exactly the “Missing Middle” is — and why it’s making a comeback
• How Paul finds and transforms overlooked lots into profitable, modern rentals
• The full development process from teardown to turnkey
• Smart ways to structure CMHC financing to reduce risk and boost ROI
• Real-world advice on suite mix, tenant retention, and long-term cash flow
• What to actually expect when refinancing — and how to time it right
• Mistakes to avoid when building smaller multi-family projects

Paul shares the real, unfiltered truth about what it takes to succeed in this space. No fluff, no hype — just experience-backed strategies that work in today’s market.

If you’re tired of chasing cash flow in overcrowded markets or you’re ready to scale without taking on massive builds, this episode is a must-listen.

Follow Paul on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/proximityproperties/

Learn more about our Trusted Partner - SingleKey

Used by more than 150,000 homeowners across the U.S. and Canada, SingleKey is a digital platform that helps property owners make more informed decisions when selecting tenants and managing their risk. Their tenant screening service, automated rent collection tool, and Rent Guarantee Program bring trust, transparency, and accountability into the rental process, allowing homeowners, renters, property managers, and realtors to rent risk free.

Stop guessing with tenants. SingleKey’s got the tools: Screening, automated rent, and a Rent Guarantee. Used by 150,000+ landlords. Don’t risk it. Get SingleKey.
Use promo code SAVVY10OFF or use the link below to login into your SingleKey account or create a new account. Savvy members are entitled to an exclusive recurring 10% discount on all single credit bureau reports regularly priced at $29.99.

Would you like to learn more? Visit:
https://thesavvyinvestor.ca/singlekey

Savvy Investor Links:

Website: https://thesavvyinvestor.ca
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/savvy_investors
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thesavvyinvestor

Join our Savvy Squad Community for 14 Days Absolutely FREE! https://thesavvyinvestor.ca/join

Disclaimer: The views and advice expressed on this podcast are those of the participants and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or beliefs of the podcast host or affiliated parties. The content is for entertainment purposes only and should not be considered as professional financial, legal, or investment advice. Listeners are encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with qualified professionals before making any financial decisions. The podcast host and producers are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided.