About Rich Danby

My Story

From Broadcasting to Building Wealth

That’s what motivates me every day: helping people understand the power of real estate. Carving a career in real estate takes smarts and resilience. I wasn’t born into wealth; in fact, I had to make my own way early in life and accept responsibilities that really tested me. My story shows that people can make it even if their start in life is hard.

I moved to Ottawa from Hamilton and enrolled in Television Broadcasting at Algonquin College. On graduation, I landed a job as a videographer at The NewRO, a local TV station owned by CHUM, shooting and editing stories for the newscast. I was working my way toward becoming a sports anchor when I was offered a job as a TV producer for Rogers TV. The pay was better and, with a young family, I set aside my dreams of being on-air. I spent the next 13 years producing and directing hundreds of sporting events, with occasional on-air reporting.

That role taught me to lead. I was responsible for all the content and for managing the entire crew: hosts, reporters, commentators, camera operators, audio, replays, and graphics. Most of the people I worked with were volunteers, and many went on to have amazing careers, something I took great pride in, especially when a thank-you card or email arrived afterward.

When my son was born, I knew I had to take additional steps to ensure financial security. I liked my TV job, but I didn’t want to take for granted that it would provide for my family for the next 20 years. I already had a small real estate portfolio, so I set out to learn everything I could about investing. I joined the Ottawa Real Estate Investors Organization (OREIO) and served two years as its president, then co-founded the Ottawa branch of the Real Estate Investment Network (REIN), a national education company that helps investors grow their portfolios.

Today I’m a full-time real estate investor. I founded Rich Ottawa Investments in 2010, with properties in Ottawa and Hamilton. The company focuses on renovations, flips, rent-to-own, and buy-and-hold, with a diverse mix of single and multi-family units. I attribute our success to in-depth real estate knowledge, teamwork, and a commitment to producing results for everyone involved. I also coach investors, speak on real estate topics, and help others create wealth through our investment opportunities as lenders or equity partners.

I continue to write on matters related to real estate, and have been published in CREW Magazine, The REIN Report, and The Ottawa Sun.