John D. van Gent

Partner

T: 416.777.6522 / E: vangentj@bennettjones.com

Toronto

With over 20 years of experience and a track record of acting on some of Canada’s largest commercial real estate financing transactions, John van Gent is “a real deal maker” who maximizes the value of his clients' portfolios.

Commercial real estate financiers, investors and owners rely on John for tailored, practical solutions for their most complex financings and transaction structures. Recognized as a top practitioner by Chambers Canada, Lexpert and The Legal 500 Canada, he serves a diverse client base that includes borrowers, leading banks and private mortgage lenders. John's expertise spans all areas of real estate finance—including syndicated and bilateral secured lending, revolving and term loans, construction credit facilities, and work-out transactions.

What Clients Say

"His experience in the industry shows in his ability to bring parties together, facilitate continued forward movement and represent his client's best interests."

With nearly 400 loan transactions since 2019—representing a combined lending value of over $30 billion—some of his recent work includes:

$1.7-billion revolving construction credit facility—the first of its kind in Canada—for the Oakridge Park Project in Vancouver on behalf of the lender
$900-million revolving credit facility secured by a portfolio of industrial properties on behalf of the lender
$632-million construction financing of the tallest residential condominium in Canada on behalf of the borrower
$450-million acquisition financing of a portfolio of modular home parks across Canada on behalf of the lender
$350-million refinancing of a shopping center in Ottawa on behalf of the borrower

John is highly experienced in real estate investment structures, including joint ventures, limited partnerships, mortgage investment funds and private equity real estate funds. Both Canadian and international investors benefit from John's guidance on the trading and financing of commercial properties—spanning office buildings, retail spaces, industrial facilities, multi-family developments, seniors' housing and hospitality properties. His strategic advice on investment structures and land transfer tax planning consistently drives transaction efficiency and long-term savings for his clients.

What Clients Say

"John van Gent is a real deal maker, and a gentleman in his dealings with others."

A frequent presenter at industry conferences and the Bennett Jones Academy, John is a trusted voice in the real estate community, delivering insights that help clients achieve their goals with confidence and efficiency.