The Own Path Contributors
The voices behind the knowledge.
"Own Path is an editorial platform built to give homeowners the full context of their real estate journey, replacing industry noise with real insights needed to make educated decisions." - Colin B
Buying a home is only the start. What comes next includes legal details, construction realities, design choices, budgeting, long-term planning, and sometimes investing. Most people piece this together from scattered advice, and the gaps are where mistakes get expensive.
That’s why Own Path includes contributors from across the homeownership journey. Each contributor brings real, day-to-day experience in their field and writes to help you understand the tradeoffs behind the decisions you’re making. The goal is not to tell you what to do. It’s to ensure you have enough context to choose your own path with confidence.
Below you’ll find the specialists who contribute to Own Path, along with a short bio and links to learn more about their work.
Meet the Editor
Colin Ballantyne: Mortgage Strategy
A licensed Mortgage Agent and long-time investor who built his career at the intersection of numbers and real-world results. With over 25 years of experience, from first-time buying and home inspections to acting as a general contractor on multi-unit projects, he founded Own Path to be a translator for homeowners. Based in Burlington, ON, he focuses on aligning mortgage strategy with real life, ensuring you have the background and knowledge to navigate your own path.
The Human Side: A 28-year volunteer Scout leader, hobbyist woodworker, and a dedicated seeker of hidden-gem coffee shops in small Ontario towns.
[Learn More]
The Collective
Own Path is run by a group of experts from different fields who share their real-world knowledge to help you. These professionals work in the market every day and know what really happens. By combining their insights, we give you a complete view of homeownership.
Alex Braun: Interior Designer
A successful home is one that balances aesthetic appeal with the functional realities of your daily life; it should be intentional, inviting, and a true reflection of the people who live in it rather than just a trend.
The Human Side: A second-generation real estate enthusiast who grew up tagging along to showings and offices, now usually found hunting for the perfect mix of 'California-cool' and mid-century modern finds.
[Learn More]
Jennifer Van Geytenbeek: Realtor®
Real estate is rarely just about the house you’re in; it’s about the chapter you’re living. After two decades in advertising, I learned that the best moves happen when you stop settling for 'enough' and start looking for a space that actually fuels your passion.
The Human Side: A 1940s bungalow-renovation enthusiast who understands the 'sweat equity' journey firsthand. A dedicated dog mom who is happiest enjoying cottage life, or finding the best sun-drenched patios in Etobicoke.
[Learn More]
Dan MacDonald: Co-Founder - Ownwell
Most homeowners see their property as a place to live first and an asset second. My goal is to flip that lens to treat your home as a financial asset, ensuring you aren't overpaying on the 'cost of ownership' while maximizing the value you've built.
The Human Side: An avid runner and adventurer who is just as comfortable navigating the rugged trails of Pacific Rim National Park as he is with the complexities of home finance. When he’s not travelling, he’s likely planning his next off-the-grid expedition.
[Learn More]
No hype. No fear.
Just context.
Stay oriented, not overwhelmed.
Real estate is complicated, but finding the right team shouldn’t be. Use this resource to cut through the noise and find the specialists you need to move forward with total confidence.
Explore
The Strategic First Purchase
The Evolution of Ownership
The Professional Investor
© 2026 Own Path. For information purposes only. This content does not constitute financial, legal, or professional advice.
Always consult with a qualified specialist who can review your specific situation and provide guidance unique to your needs.