For four decades, the Invidiata name has been synonymous with excellence, integrity, and innovation in luxury real estate.
What began as a career pivot to spend more time with family has evolved into a legacy that has shaped Oakville’s high-end market and extended beyond.
From introducing groundbreaking marketing techniques to setting record-breaking sales, Christopher and The Invidiata Team have elevated the industry while building lasting relationships with clients and the community. Their commitment to excellence has been recognized consistently; notably, The Invidiata Team was voted the #1 Top Real Estate Agency in the GTA for 2020, 2021, and 2022. Additionally, they achieved the prestigious title of #1 RE/MAX Team worldwide in both 2007 and 2012.
As he marks 40 years in business, Christopher reflects on his journey, the milestones achieved, and the future of The Invidiata Team.
Looking back on 40 years in real estate, what inspired you to start your career in this industry?
Real estate was never part of my original plan, but life has a way of guiding you to where you're meant to be. When my daughter was just nine months old and starting to walk, I realized I didn't want to miss those precious moments. My father suggested real estate, knowing it would offer the flexibility to be present with my family. That decision set everything in motion, leading to a fulfilling career spanning four decades.
What was the real estate market like in Oakville when you first started, and how has it evolved over the decades?
In the early days, the market moved at a much slower pace. Every offer had to be presented in person, requiring face-to-face negotiations with the other agent. Technology was limited; our updates came from black-and-white computer printouts. To differentiate ourselves, we introduced colour photography and night shots, which were revolutionary at the time.
Over the years, Oakville has been transformed significantly. Southeast Oakville has become a hub for luxury homes, with properties now reaching values in the tens of millions. The downtown core has also evolved, with revitalization efforts enhancing the community and making Oakville a sought-after destination.
The Invidiata Team has become a trusted name in luxury real estate. What do you believe has been the key to your long-term success?
Our success is rooted in a simple philosophy: prioritize the client's needs above all else. From the beginning, we've focused on building relationships rather than merely completing transactions. Real estate is about understanding people's dreams and guiding them through one of life's most significant decisions. This "client for life” mentality has been the cornerstone of our approach: “No matter the size of the home, every client is treated with the same level of care.”
Family seems to play a significant role in your business. How have your children contributed to The Invidiata Team?
Family is at the heart of everything we do. Both of my children, Shae and Caleb, are agents and play integral roles in The Invidiata Team. Both have been a part of the company for over a decade, serving clients throughout Toronto, Oakville, and the GTA—Shae founding [free-them], a non-profit organization dedicated to ending human trafficking, and Caleb a firefighter with Toronto Fire—further solidifying our family-driven approach. Giving back and supporting charities is deeply important to us, shaping both our business values and our community involvement.
You’ve built lasting relationships with clients and the community. How important is relationship-building in your business?
Relationships are the foundation of our success. When clients trust you with one of the most important decisions of their lives, it's a responsibility we take seriously. We've built a reputation based on integrity, expertise, and consistently putting our clients' needs first. Many clients have been with us for years, and it's incredibly rewarding to serve multiple generations of families in their real estate journeys.
Oakville and the surrounding communities have grown significantly. What are some of the biggest changes you’ve seen in the region?
Oakville has always been a desirable place to live, but the demand has surged, especially in Southeast Oakville. Properties that were once considered luxurious have been reimagined, with homes now selling for tens of millions. The scarcity of land has further driven up property values.
Simultaneously, downtown Oakville has undergone a remarkable transformation. The introduction of new businesses, dining experiences, and revitalized public spaces has turned it into more than just a residential area; it's now a vibrant community where people aspire to live, work, and connect.
What’s next for you and Invidiata Realty as you celebrate this milestone?
This milestone offers an opportunity for reflection and growth. We're committed to strengthening our brand locally while expanding into the Greater Toronto Area and exploring new markets. Our mission remains consistent: to provide exceptional experiences for our clients!
Finally, if you could sum up your 40-year journey in a few words, what would they be?
When you love what you do and the people you do it for, it never feels like work. It's been a privilege to assist families and individuals in finding their homes. This is just the beginning; the next generation of The Invidiata Team is poised to continue our tradition of excellence and community service.
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This editorial is featured in the March/April issue of Best Side Magazine.
