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A group of four law firms orchestrated a high-stakes take-private acquisition of Minto Apartment Real Estate Investment Trust, with Minto Group and Crestpoint Real Estate Investments leading an all-cash deal valuing the REIT at $1.7 billion.

According to a Monday news release, the partners plan to form a joint venture that includes assuming the REIT’s outstanding debt. The move creates a platform focused on long-term ownership of newly completed multifamily rental properties across Canada.

Deal Represents 32% Premium

Minto Apartment REIT noted that the deal price represents a 32% premium over its closing price on Jan. 2, the last trading day before the announcement. A shareholder vote is set for March 2026, with closing anticipated in the second half of 2026.

The joint venture aims to explore value-add and repositioning opportunities, while potentially acquiring recently finished, stabilized multifamily properties for co-development over time.

Strategic Growth in Key Canadian Markets

The acquisition targets core Canadian cities including Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, and Montreal. Minto will provide property, development, and construction management, while Crestpoint will oversee joint portfolio management.

“This transaction will significantly enhance our multifamily exposure across the country while allowing us to work and grow alongside a successful and reputable partner that has decades of experience in the sector,” said Kevin Leon, president and CEO of Crestpoint.

Crestpoint did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Legal Teams Guiding the Deal

The partnership is advised by a team from Torys LLP, including John Emanoilidis, Brett Saulnier, Adam Ibrahim, Arron Chahal, Rose Bailey, Simon Knowling, Omar Wakil, Eric Patenaude, Jennifer Lennon, Tom Stevenson, Molly Reynolds, Corrado Cardarelli, Andrew Wong, Richard Johnson, David Mattingly, and Chris Saki.

Crestpoint is advised by McCarthy Tetrault LLP, and a Minto Apartment REIT special committee is represented by Blake Cassels & Graydon LLP.