"I came into real estate as a sales agent in late ’80s. Slowly I transitioned from sales to developing, and then into construction also. Isle of Mann came into existence in 1994. We have been developing and building in the Lower Mainland since then. 27 years and counting..” - Dave Mann, Founder and President, Isle Mann Property Group
Dave Mann is President and Founder of Isle of Mann Property Group. As President, Dave Mann works closely with his leadership team to execute on overall corporate strategy, including acquisitions, development, and finance. His team is usually working on close to 30 projects at any given time. Some are acquisitions, some are in the rezoning process, and some are under construction. Overall, Mann describes his company as a vertically integrated group of real estate professionals committed to community growth and business success through disciplined investment and mindful development.
For a new immigrant wanting to do business, money is obviously a big problem. Things are much better now, but Mann recalls that in the 70s and 80s, there was not much money in our immigrant community. However, perseverance, hard work and tenacity eventually does bear fruit. The 2008 financial crisis was a huge challenge, but by the grace of God and some creativity, Mann describes that his company flourished. They not only survived, but grew stronger and more able to chart a course through choppy waters. For Isle of Mann’s noteworthy contributions to the real estate industry, Dave Mann was honoured as a Legend of Housing by the Greater Vancouver Home Builder’s Association as a leader who has revolutionized approaches to residential housing. Hoping to break ground on two towers in White Rock this spring, the team is constantly reinventing to the ever-changing real estate market. Mann elaborates that they are absolutely humbled by what they have yet to learn. “May we be student always,” he emphasizes.
That said, Mann’s success hasn’t just been a result of business progress. Mann says that he is blessed to be married to a wonderful woman, who is his strength and has always had more trust in his abilities than even himself. The power couple is blessed with two sons that also work with Mann. For him, they are the future. Mann is also a proud grandfather of five! Beyond his business ventures, Mann also has a philanthropic presence in the community. Established in 2009 by Isle of Mann Founder and President, Dave Mann, Mannkind provides impoverished children across various developing countries with a safe and caring environment to explore the world. It is Mannkind’s goal to develop a generation of leaders who promote an agenda of empathy, kindness and compassion through access to health care, education, and spiritual learning.
Undoubtedly, Mann is living his vision to creating a true value-add company. Not necessarily into the high-end market of luxury homes, Mann promises delivery of optimal value to his clients and buyers. He holds the stance that real estate is the biggest investment one will ever make, making it that much important to do your homework, read the market, and buy good. Mann’s words of wisdom include not letting success get to one’s head, flying low, staying humble, treating all with respect, and being kind.
DARPAN’s Super Seven
1. Tell us about yourself and your journey into real estate.
“I came into real estate as a sales agent in late 80’s. Slowly I transitioned from sales to developing, and then into construction also. Isle of Mann came into existence in 1994. We have been developing and building in the Lower Mainland since then. 27 years and counting.
2. What does your company stand for?
To last 27 years in this industry, you must have good people skills, the ability to learn and change, certain creativity and of course work ethic.
3. What can buyers expect when buying from you?
Good value, repeat customers. We have mostly concentrated on entry-level products where good value matters. We value our relationships with our customers, employees, investors, and bankers.
4. What is your advice for someone venturing into real estate?
There is no substitute for hard work, diligence and creativity. Always, always be the student. Learn and grow. Share your gifts.
5. What is your mantra for success?
Life is an opportunity to experience. Even difficult times need to be learned from, grown from and the wisdom gained shall serve you in the future.
6. What are your hobbies?
I love the game of cricket. I still play. I have had the opportunity to play in many countries like Australia, New Zealand, England, Sri Lanka, South Africa, and Singapore. Besides cricket, I am very grateful that meditation came in life. If I am consistent at anything in my life now it is meditation. I feel very grateful and blessed.
7. In your opinion, what is driving the price jumps in the lower mainland?
There is a huge backlog of projects at most municipalities. Project approval process is a bureaucratic nightmare and there seems to be no end in sight.