Get to know realtor extraordinaire, Rizwan Malik!

rizwan malik

Rizwan Malik is taking the real estate industry by storm with this knowledge of the space and expertise in the industry.

Today, HOLR is sitting down to chat with the real estate extraordinaire about how it all started. From his beginnings in the industry to his experiences being a host on HGTV and Cityline, to everything in between, Rizwan is sharing his impressive life story with HOLR and diving into how he continues to set records in the Toronto real estate market.

All about Rizwan Malik

As one of Toronto’s top real estate agents, Rizwan Malik is selling swanky suites and homes to satisfy and serve – say that ten times fast.

However, before he was Toronto’s go-to realtor, he recognized his passion for sales by working at a pet shop where he developed an innate go-getter spirit. Rizwan moved to Toronto in 1994, and while completing his bachelor’s degree in Commerce at Ryerson University, he earned his real estate license and was evidently named the youngest Vice President of Sales ever at Sotheby’s International Realty Canada.

His knowledge in the space- combined with his charm and charisma- ultimately landed him a spot as a host on HGTV Canada’s Hot Market. It is here that he helped affluent clientele find their dream homes. Today, he’s also one of Cityline’s real estate experts, where he helps Canadians stay informed about the happenings in the real estate market. Rizwan’s ability to break down the market’s continuing complexities into easy-to-understand and digestible terms for viewers, readers, and first-time buyers makes him one of the city’s go-to’s for all things real estate.

During his time in the industry, he has set many records in the Toronto real estate market, including a price record for selling a penthouse on King Street West at a time when units in the area were selling for a lot less per square foot. In addition to his passion for real estate, Rizwan also has an eye for style, in which he truly puts the “proper” in property.

rizwan malik

Rizwan tells all!

HOLR is chatting with Rizwan about his beginnings in the industry, his experience as a host, and his top home-decorating tips for fall.

Q: Tell us about how you got your start in real estate.

Rizwan: I have always had a passion for people! Real estate is a business about people; it isn’t about your attachment to architecture or your ability to negotiate a contract. Real estate always goes back to the individuals you are servicing and what that means, which is why it was a natural fit for me.

Q: What do you love about the industry?

Rizwan: I love the freedom and the ability to operate my own business. It can be very overwhelming at times, but equally as rewarding – sometimes more!

Q: You’re a host on HGTV Canada’s Hot Market, as well as a Real Estate Expert on Cityline. Talk to us about these experiences. 

Rizwan: It is an honour to be part of both outlets. It is definitely a career highlight. There are over 80,000 licensed realtors in Ontario, so to be chosen to do this is something I don’t take lightly. I’m beyond grateful, but I have also worked super hard to make this happen since age 19. 

Q: What should our audience keep in mind when monitoring the fall housing market?

Rizwan: The Fall housing market is the final hurrah before the holidays. Keep your eye on the market and your finger on the pulse; with climbing interest rates, this is the window of opportunity buyers have been waiting and often hoping for. 

Q: With fall in full swing, do you have any tips on how Canadians can (pumpkin) spice up their home to ring in the festive season?

Rizwan: Gourds, gourds, and more gourds! Dress up your porch and put some pumpkins out, get dried corn, or a bale of hay if you can. Fall is about the harvest, and what better way to celebrate? If you’re in a condo, you can still do all of the above but on your balcony, dining room table, or in different areas throughout your condo. 

Q: What are your top tips when it comes to decorating your home – both inside and outside?

Rizwan: Less is more! This doesn’t mean bare but living in clutter and rooms that are overly dressed with furniture or knickknacks is not the way to go! Throw out your phonebooks from the 90s, you will not need them ever again!

Q: What’s next for you?

Rizwan: There is always a lot going on and I wouldn’t have it any other way! Life has dealt me a pretty good hand and coupled that with my drive and desire to work hard… you have no choice but to create something great.

Published by HOLR Magazine.