More than ever, strong partnerships are essential to the success of new construction and development projects. As fluctuating pricing and other uncertainties around materials and labour continue to affect the industry, you need to be confident that your financing partner has the knowledge, experience, and commitment to support you from start to finish.
As part of our new Meet the Team series, MCAP is introducing key members of our Development Finance Group to new, existing, and prospective clients, so you can understand how the team works and learn more about who has your back as you do business.
Neil Le Grand is a team member in our Toronto office. In a recent conversation, we had the pleasure of speaking with him about his experience in construction financing and his perspective on what makes the MCAP Development Finance Team stand out in the industry.
Introducing Neil Le Grand: Senior Director, Origination
Neil, tell us about your experience in the industry
I have had the opportunity to work with a number of exceptional teams across the country throughout my 20-year career. I began my journey in the financial industry at First National Financial, followed by five years at Trez Capital and seven years at Laurentian Bank before joining MCAP in early 2021. In my roles, I have completed CMHC insured transactions, mezzanine financing as well as loans for land, construction, and repositioning of assets.
Why should a client choose MCAP for their construction financing needs?
Our team’s sharp focus on development and construction financing sets us apart in the industry. Our Toronto Development Finance Team has over 100 years of construction financing experience and our senior leadership team has been with the company for over 34 years, giving us unparalleled market knowledge. What’s more, we have access to a diverse capital base that can finance deals that other lenders – both banks and non-bank lenders – cannot complete. Our relentless obsession with client care means we make sure our clients are on a sound footing for long-term success.
What makes MCAP’s Development Finance Group unique?
We have a lot of fun doing what we do – the passion we have for our business and the collaborative way we work translates to great service for our clients and a positive culture in our office. Our 100 years of collective experience and ability to complete both bankable and non-bank transactions distinguish us, as does our ability to take deals from very early stages right through to completion.
How do you tackle difficult or complicated deals?
We are at our strongest when we work together as a team, and the collaborative sprit of our team leads to solutions and success. All the deals we finance are unique and we are always prepared for the challenge… this is why our clients place their trust in us.
How do you and your team stay motivated throughout a deal?
We understand there is a tremendous responsibility that comes with working on a team that finances land acquisition, land development and home construction. We know that for nearly every Canadian purchasing a home, this will be the biggest purchase they ever make and will be the bulk of their net worth. Knowing how important this is keeps us engaged. In addition, we don’t look at deals as a “one off.” We work with clients knowing that we will be working with them for decades to come.
What are some of the secrets to your success?
There are no secrets. It all starts with culture – the positive and productive environment in which we work sets us up for success. We set goals and execute on them, which keeps us aligned to our purpose. We also don’t hesitate to reinvent how we can help our clients achieve their goals – we are fully aware that what worked last time is not a guarantee for success the next time. Our focus on ensuring our investors and MCAP are funding the highest quality deals with the best developers also enables success over the long-term.
What is the best way for new clients to contact you?
We love making new connections. Just call me at (905) 510-0334 or email me at neil.legrand@mcap.com.
