Join us for our next OREIO event on April 8th 2026!
On April 8th we will welcome Ali Ward, Leasing Director at Athena Property Management. Since 2021, Ali has played a key role in leading leasing operations at APM. As a dedicated leasing specialist, she manages a dynamic portfolio of active listings across the Brantford, Hamilton, and Niagara regions, delivering consistent, results-driven outcomes for property owners and investors.
In this session, Ali will deliver a comprehensive and practical overview of the full leasing process, tailored for real estate investors aiming to optimize performance and minimize vacancy. Drawing from her hands-on experience managing a large rental portfolio, she will share proven strategies to reduce vacancy and attract high-quality tenants.
The presentation will walk through key stages of leasing, including marketing, tenant screening, showings, and application review, with a focus on minimizing risk and ensuring compliance with Ontario regulations. Ali will also cover best practices for lease execution, turnover management, and building strong tenant relationships.
By addressing common pitfalls and offering actionable solutions, this session will equip both new and experienced investors with clear, implementable systems to streamline operations and maximize returns.
Ali's Bio:
Ali holds an Honours Bachelor of Business Administration and Economics from Brock University, with a specialization in Marketing and Operations. Her professional foundation is further strengthened by hands-on experience in the Barbados rental market, where she was actively involved in managing family-owned rental properties. This international perspective informs her practical, client-focused approach to leasing.
With a strong background in customer service and leadership, Ali brings a high level of organization, communication, and strategic thinking to every stage of the leasing process. She is known for creating seamless experiences for both property owners and tenants, while maintaining a focus on maximizing occupancy and asset performance.
Ali draws on her day-to-day experience and industry insight to guide real estate investors through the full leasing lifecycle, from marketing and tenant screening to placement and turnover, equipping them with practical strategies to optimize their rental portfolios.
