Every successful company begins with a vision—and Kevin Hazout led Black Ridge is a perfect example of what happens when vision meets execution. What started as a modest family-run office has transformed into one of the most respected real estate companies operating across Canada and now expanding into the United States.
Today, Black Ridge owns and manages a diverse portfolio of residential, industrial, and hospitality properties in cities like Montreal, Ottawa, Quebec City, and Gatineau. With a steady expansion into U.S. markets like Bay Harbor Islands, the company continues to demonstrate that organic growth, when rooted in strong values, leads to long-term success.
The Beginning: A Family with a Mission
The roots of Black Ridge are grounded in a small, tight-knit team that initially focused on acquiring and managing residential buildings in Montreal. At the time, the market was ripe for opportunity, but what made Black Ridge different was its approach. The founders weren’t just interested in owning properties—they wanted to manage them in a way that prioritized tenant welfare and long-term neighborhood growth.
These values became the bedrock of the company and remain just as central today as they were in its earliest years.
Strategic Growth Through the Right Leadership
As Black Ridge grew, so did its leadership vision. When Kevin Hazout stepped into the role of President and CEO, he brought with him a forward-thinking mindset that combined business acumen with community sensitivity. His leadership accelerated Black Ridge’s transition from a local family office to a large-scale private real estate firm with more than 50 specialized employees.
Under his guidance, the company began exploring acquisitions beyond Montreal, entering markets in Quebec City, Ottawa, and eventually across international borders.
Diversification of Assets
One of the key pillars of Black Ridge’s evolution has been diversification. While many real estate companies focus on a single asset type, Black Ridge has intentionally built a varied portfolio that includes:
- Multi-residential apartment buildings
- Industrial warehouses
- Boutique hotels
- Development-ready properties
This diverse asset strategy provides stability against market volatility and positions Black Ridge to take advantage of various economic cycles.
People-First Approach
Despite its significant growth, Black Ridge has stayed true to its founding values. Every acquisition and development project is approached with the tenant in mind. Clean, secure, and well-maintained properties are non-negotiables.
Black Ridge’s team of property managers and support staff work closely with tenants to ensure satisfaction. Quick repairs, transparent communication, and a strong emphasis on safety have become trademarks of the company.
Crossing Borders with Confidence
The company’s expansion into the U.S. was not a rushed move—it was a calculated progression. With offices now in Florida, Black Ridge is actively acquiring assets in key American cities while replicating its Canadian success formula.
The expansion is being led by a dedicated international team that aligns with Black Ridge’s brand promise and vision. The same values that built trust in Canada are now building relationships across the border.
As Kevin Hazout often emphasizes, sustainable growth is only possible when there is harmony between operational excellence and ethical business practices. And that’s exactly what continues to fuel Black Ridge’s rise in the real estate world.
