Founded by visionary entrepreneurs Mike Yuval and Jack Sofer, Tidan Hospitality and Real Estate Group is a Montreal-based powerhouse in property development and hospitality. With a portfolio spanning over 40 commercial and residential properties, a dozen hotels, and one of the largest tennis clubs in North America, Tidan blends timeless restoration with bold innovation. At its core, the company is driven by a deep commitment to community, quality, and connection—redefining what it means to build spaces that serve people.
What is your business called and what does it do?
Tidan- We own more than forty commercial and residential rental properties, in addition to a dozen renowned hotels and one of the largest tennis clubs in North America.
What made you want to do this work?
Jack – We saw an opportunity in this industry, and once we started, we couldn’t stop. We had no background in real estate and decided
Mike -I approach life like an engine, constantly moving forward. I enjoy doing things differently and challenging myself instead of staying in one place. I believe in continuous growth; to succeed in life, you have to aim to be better tomorrow than you are today.
I spent a long time searching for a career path that truly aligned with my goals. Initially, I explored other professions, including working as a mechanic, but I realized they didn’t allow me to pursue the vision I had for myself. I wanted to follow a path that offered more personal fulfilment. Real estate gave me the opportunity to grow, express my talents, and start something of my own. It began with small steps and gradual progress, but I stayed committed and kept moving forward. That’s how I got to where I am today.
What problem did you want to solve with the business?
Jack – We wanted to create job opportunities and help with employment in Canada. We didn’t know of any problems when starting in the industry, but as in any business we are faced with many problems on a day-to-day basis. We tackle everything head-on and always find a solution and learn from it.
Mike – The problem really was that we had to improve things that happened in the past to the real estate that we purchased. Certain areas were old and needed some updates and TLC. We took them, addressed the issues, and this is one of the things we love to do. Taking a partly rundown area and improving it. We will continue doing the same thing to help beautify our city and make it stand out.
Who are your clientele/demographics?
Jack – The short answer is everyone. We have hotels for everyone, from luxury to econo-style hotels. We want to work with all markets and types of travellers; everyone is welcome. As for real estate, we have taken the same approach, as we have different commercial and residential buildings across North America.
Mike – We are in hospitality —it’s about people and is for everyone. We focus on the people in Montreal, in the surrounding area, and across Canada. In hospitality, we are doing our best not only to serve the local market, but also to reach European markets. That’s why we decided to come to Montreal and Quebec, Canada—so travellers from abroad can come, stay in our hotels, and receive the service we provide.
How does your business make money? How does it work?
Mike – We do our best to decrease our expenses and increase revenue, like any other business, but this should not be at the cost of not improving or renovating the hotel or the building. It should not be that. You have to do it. To make a profit, you have to improve the properties.
What is the best part about what you do? What is the worst part?
Jack – We love to take on new projects, especially restoring iconic properties. We try to do the best with our knowledge and experience to help our city, province and country.
The worst part must be the stress. We try to move past it and work through it, it’s part of the process and through the years we have learnt how to manage it.
Mike – The best part would be the people – It’s an essential part of our role and success to create an environment where everyone feels understood and respected. I believe respect is mutual — when I respect my team, they respect me. Ultimately, the goal is for everyone to be happy. I don’t want anyone working for us; I want them to feel like they’re working with us.
The toughest part of the job is when people think we haven’t done enough, without understanding the full situation. It can be frustrating when others overlook our efforts or criticize us unfairly.
What is your favourite joke about your own profession?
Mike – Why did I not start in the real-estate industry at the age of 5?
Where can we follow you?
Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn
PAY IT FORWARD: What is another local business that you love?
Mike -There are many local businesses, whether in real estate, hospitality, or other industries, that I respect deeply for how well they operate. Everyone, no matter what they do, teaches us something valuable. I believe in learning from others while always doing our best. What we have here in Quebec and Canada is something to be proud of, and it makes us happy. We want to learn at my own pace and run my business in my own way. If I decide to invest in a new area, that’s my decision to make—my own path.
