Robert McDermott enjoys competition and is comfortable single-handedly taken on daunting challenges. He was working in a management position for the Ontario government when he decided to pursue real estate over 18 years ago. Many of his Robert’s friends were realtors and he liked how they could autonomously care for their clients. He also liked the potential of earnings that comes with hard work. When Mayor Miller passed a second land transfer tax for Torontonians, Robert realized the negative impact it would have on the market. He started the Toronto Land Transfer Tax Coalition to challenge the tax. The coalition has the support of 12 city councillors and many realtors, builders, developers, residents and buyers. It has also resulted in a network of seven realtors running for councilors in October’s elections. Robert is concerned about the issues that affect the real estate industry and fights for the rights of his clients. He has first hand experience of the wasteful use of resources within government and would like City Hall to cut expenses rather than look for ways to take more money from the taxpayers. Robert believes this is something that can only be achieved with transparency and accountability, which presently does not exist. Robert supports affordable housing and the goal of everyone having a roof over their head and wants it done in a sustainable and responsible way. Robert is running for councillor in RIding 36 ‘Scarborough Southwest’.