Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing
What if you could learn from experienced real estate investors, find out what got them to where they are now, get insight into their daily habits, and take these insights to inspire your own growth? That’s what each episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing brings. Hosted by Jonathan Greene, a real estate investor for more than 30 years, as well as advisor and coach, the founder of Streamlined Properties and the Team Leader of Streamlined Properties, brokered by Real, every episode is an in-depth look at the mindful approach to real estate investing. If you are looking to start from scratch, get to the next level, or just for a straightforward and honest approach to real estate investing, Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing is the free mentorship program you can take with you anywhere.
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176: Understanding the Cost of Capital and Tailored Solutions with Jake Clopton
09/26/2024
176: Understanding the Cost of Capital and Tailored Solutions with Jake Clopton
Understanding capital for loans and equity is critical to real estate investing. The more you know, the easier it is to attain capital. On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan interviews Jake Clopton, founder of Clopton Capital. Jake founded Clopton Capital in 2009 as a way for property owners and operators to efficiently access debt and JV equity for commercial properties. He also owns Clopton Insurance Services and multiple apartment communities in the Chicagoland area. Jonathan and Jake begin by discussing Jake’s interest in real estate investing and how he initially got involved in the real estate world. Jake shares some of the mistakes in commercial assets over the last few years and the impact interest rates have had on the industry. You’ll hear why you need to know your market and how to invest in it, especially in a city like Chicago. Jake shares why you should view your assets as operating assets that complement one another, understand your insurance policies, and what to look for in commercial financing. He reveals his ideal client for lending, why there is no such thing as passive income, the future of office space, and why everything in real estate returns to relationships. Learning the cost of capital and how insurance can impact your investments is critical, and Jake Clopton shares some of these must-knows in real estate. In this episode, you will hear: Jake Clopton’s interest in real estate investing and how he initially entered the field The mistakes in commercial over the last few years and the impact of interest rates Why Jake chose a 20-unit multifamily as his first investment Knowing your market and how to invest in it Growing the business, viewing your assets as operating assets, and how they complement one another The importance of understanding your insurance policies What to look for in commercial financing Jake’s ideal client for lending and why businesses like car washes are hidden gems Why there is no such thing as passive income in real estate and the assets Jake likes right now The best options for vacant commercial real estate and the future of office space Relationship-building’s importance in real estate Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on . Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, we've created a PDF that has all of the key information for you from the episode. Just go to the episode page at https://zenandtheartofrealestateinvesting.com/podcast/176/ to download it. Supporting Resources: Clopton Capital website - Clopton Capital on Facebook - Find Clopton Capital on Instagram - Connect with Jake Clopton on LinkedIn - Clopton Capital’s X/Twitter - Website - YouTube - Instagram - Instagram - TikTok - Zillow - Bigger Pockets - Facebook - Email - Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at Let them know we sent you.
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175: How to Become a Home Equity Partner Through Lease-to-Own with Adam Zach
09/23/2024
175: How to Become a Home Equity Partner Through Lease-to-Own with Adam Zach
For first-time homebuyers, those with variable incomes, or even those working on their credit scores, buying a home can feel daunting—maybe even impossible. On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan welcomes Adam Zach, the co-founder of Home Equity Partner. Home Equity Partner transforms renters into homeowners, mainly across the Midwest and Southeast, bridging the gap for people one to three years away from mortgage eligibility. They achieve this by connecting homebuyers with real estate investors seeking double-digit returns backed by real estate. Jonathan and Adam start their conversation by delving into Adam’s first real estate and entrepreneurship exposure. Adam explains what stops most people from moving forward with real estate and what you can do to move forward, how he bit off more than he could chew, and what went wrong with some of his first real estate purchases. Adam shares his goal for Home Equity Partner, which is to make lease-to-own transparent, fair, and comfortable for buyers, how his company started, and the process a renter uses to purchase a home with lease-to-own. You’ll hear how investors can get involved with this type of transaction, where their leads come from, and his tips for avoiding scams. Finally, Jonathan and Adam discuss the other asset classes Adam is in, the ideal avatar on both the investor and buyer sides, and his advice for new investors. Lease-to-own is one of the least talked about aspects of real estate investing, but Adam Zach makes a win-win case for this asset class. In this episode, you will hear: How Adam Zach’s company, Home Equity Partner, helps buyers purchase properties Adam’s foray into real estate and entrepreneurship after realizing how much money he could earn with real estate What stops most people from moving forward and the steps you can take to move forward Biting off more than he could chew and what went wrong with some of his first purchases Making lease-to-own transparent, fair, and comfortable for buyers The genesis of Home Equity Partner The process a renter goes through to purchase a home using a lease-to-own option How investors can get involved in doing this type of transaction Where Adam’s leads are coming from in his business and avoiding scams The other asset classes he’s in and why he primarily sticks to single-family Building wealth through equity in your home and who Adam’s ideal avatars are What happens to the house if the tenant has an income change Adam Zach’s advice for new investors Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on . Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, we've created a PDF that has all of the key information for you from the episode. Just go to the episode page at https://zenandtheartofrealestateinvesting.com/podcast/175/ to download it. Supporting Resources: Home Equity Partner website - Adam Zach on Facebook - Home Equity Partner’s Instagram - Connect with Adam Zach on LinkedIn - Website - YouTube - Instagram - Instagram - TikTok - Zillow - Bigger Pockets - Facebook - Email - Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at Let them know we sent you.
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174: The Value of Operational Intelligence in Large-Scale Multifamily with Brian Ferguson
09/19/2024
174: The Value of Operational Intelligence in Large-Scale Multifamily with Brian Ferguson
Today’s guest is a syndicator who understands the importance of knowing the nuts and bolts of syndications before jumping into an investment. On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan sits down with Brian Ferguson, founder of Altunas Capital. Today, Brian focuses on large-scale multifamily assets. Brian had 16 years of experience in real estate investing before ever raising one dollar of outside capital. As they begin their conversation, Jonathan and Brian delve into Brian’s background in real estate and what he wishes he’d done differently along the way. He offers Jonathan examples of why it pays to understand your properties’ needs and do your due diligence in syndications. You’ll hear how Brian moved from auto finance into real estate investing, his advice for new flippers, and what it means to put “lipstick on a pig” in real estate. He shares his preference for ground-up construction, why new investors should hold off on flipping, and how social media can be a bad influence on new investors and set them up for failure. Finally, Jonathan and Brian explore Brian’s implementation of EOS to grow his business, the other asset classes he is pursuing, and COVID’s lingering impact on Brian’s assets. Brian Ferguson offers a voice of experience for new investors and outlines why creating systems can save you a lot of trouble as your business grows. In this episode, you will hear: Brian Ferguson’s background in real estate and what he wishes he had done differently along the way Why it pays to understand your properties’ needs and do your due diligence in syndications How Brian moved from finance in the auto industry to real estate investing His advice for those who want to get into flipping in today’s market Putting “lipstick on a pig” in the real estate industry His preference for ground-up construction despite its downsides Why new investors should not get into flipping right away How social media influences new investors and often sets them up for failure Implementing EOS to create systems and processes for growth Building a strong team culture and learning from others The other asset classes Brian is pursuing outside of multifamily and self-storage COVID’s lingering impact on Brian’s assets Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on . Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, we've created a PDF that has all of the key information for you from the episode. Just go to the episode page at https://zenandtheartofrealestateinvesting.com/podcast/174/ to download it. Supporting Resources: Altunas Capital website - Find Brian Ferguson on Facebook - Brian’s Instagram - Connect with Brian on LinkedIn - Visit the Fergmar website - Website - YouTube - Instagram - Instagram - TikTok - Zillow - Bigger Pockets - Facebook - Email - Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at Let them know we sent you.
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173: How to Build, Grow, and Scale a Land Investing Business with Jack Bosch
09/16/2024
173: How to Build, Grow, and Scale a Land Investing Business with Jack Bosch
Land is the often-overlooked asset class that can be the easiest—and most economical—entry into real estate investing. On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan interviews Jack Bosch, an experienced business owner, entrepreneur, real estate investor, and respected industry leader. Jack is the bestselling author of “Forever Cash: Break the Earn-Spend Cycle, Take Charge of Your Life, Build Everlasting Wealth.” He is also the creator of Land Profit Generator. Jack and his wife Michelle are immigrants to the United States, and since 2008, they’ve bought and sold more than 4,000 properties. Jonathan and Jack start their conversation by exploring Jack’s immigration to the United States from Germany in 1997, how he met his wife, Michelle, an immigrant from Honduras, and why they decided to remain in the States after college. Jack shares his disillusionment with the American dream, his entry into real estate, and why you should hold on to a steady income job for a while before pursuing real estate full-time. You’ll hear why he began dabbling in various asset classes before discovering land, who he buys from, and the typical scenario of someone selling land. Jack explains his methodology for finding deals, land's flexibility, and how to find a good deal using the internet. Finally, Jonathan and Jack delve into Land Profit Generator, Jack’s market choices, and how to create a great land transaction between buyer and seller. Land can be a very affordable way to enter the real estate market, and Jack Bosch’s expertise can help you find the deal you’ve been seeking. In this episode, you will hear: Jack Bosch’s immigration to the United States from Germany in 1997, how he met his wife, and why Jack and his wife decided to stay in the States The disillusionment Jack felt with the American dream and how that led him to real estate The downsides of leaving a job too early to go into real estate full-time Jack’s first home and why he began dabbling in different types of real estate before accidentally discovering land Who he’s buying from, and the typical scenario for someone selling land Jack’s methodology for finding deals and why consistency matters The flexibility of land and the ease of identifying a good deal using the internet and research Land Profit Generator’s inception and what it does How Jack chooses markets to invest in and inflation’s impact on those choices Boosting your confidence by creating better negotiations over time Offering details about what you’re delivering in your land sale Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on . Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, we've created a PDF that has all of the key information for you from the episode. Just go to the episode page at https://zenandtheartofrealestateinvesting.com/podcast/173/ to download it. Supporting Resources: Jack Bosch’s website - Find Jack on YouTube - Jack on Facebook - Jack’s Instagram - Connect with Jack on LinkedIn - Jack’s TikTok - Website - YouTube - Instagram - Instagram - TikTok - Zillow - Bigger Pockets - Facebook - Email - Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at Let them know we sent you.
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172: Why (and How) I am Getting Back into Short-Term Rentals
09/12/2024
172: Why (and How) I am Getting Back into Short-Term Rentals
After a long hiatus, Jonathan is stepping back into the short-term rental market. On this solo episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan explains why and where he decided to get back into the STR game. You’ll hear the criteria he used to narrow down markets and how he determined Black Mountain, North Carolina, suited what he was looking for. Jonathan also shares why he likes short-term rentals, which you can use for your own enjoyment outside of the busy season. One of the reasons Jonathan put an offer on the property he chose was its design and the ability to add amenities to make the property more attractive for renters. He explains why becoming an asset to your community and collaborating with other STR owners in your market is valuable. You’ll hear why Jonathan is considering developing more properties clustered near his purchase in Black Mountain if it goes well, the generational impact he hopes it will have for his kids, and why short-term rentals don’t suit every personality. This episode reveals Jonathan’s personal strategy for purchasing a short-term rental. With his 30+ years of experience in this industry, he outlines what you may also want to consider. In this episode, you will hear: Why Jonathan is returning to investing in short-term rental properties Choosing his market and the criteria he used to narrow it down The reasons behind his decision to purchase in Black Mountain versus Asheville Using a short-term rental for your own enjoyment outside of the busy season Adding amenities to make a property more attractive for renters The appeal of A-frame homes and the downsides of property management Becoming an asset to the community you’re in Considering developing more properties clustered near the initial purchase and their generational impact Short-term rentals don’t suit every personality Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on . Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, we've created a PDF that has all of the key information for you from the episode. Just go to the episode page at https://zenandtheartofrealestateinvesting.com/podcast/172/ to download it. Supporting Resources: Website - YouTube - Instagram - Instagram - TikTok - Zillow - Bigger Pockets - Facebook - Email - Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at Let them know we sent you.
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171: How to Protect Your Properties Against Squatters with George McCleary
09/09/2024
171: How to Protect Your Properties Against Squatters with George McCleary
One of the lesser-discussed aspects of real estate investing is the potential of squatters. Legally, your hands may be tied, but today’s guest started a company targeted at helping real estate investors avoid a squatting situation altogether. On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan sits down with George McCleary, creator of the viral video “I Stole a House.” George is the founder of Squatter Defender and Title Fraud Defender. He is also the Principal at McCleary Realty & Development. Jonathan and George begin their conversation by exploring George’s thoughts on squatters and why they feel much more emboldened today. He shares some of the strategies you can use to protect your property from squatters, who professional squatters are, and what makes it so difficult to remove them from your property. You’ll hear the “cash for keys” scheme, when it pays to do it, and the story behind George’s viral video, “I Stole a House.” Jonathan and George also explore how you can avoid becoming the low-hanging fruit for squatters, his path to real estate post-college, and George’s first experiences as a landlord. Finally, as the discussion winds down, George explains title fraud, how it relates to squatting, and why it’s so difficult to stop. He also explains why he decided to start his company, Squatter Defender. George McCleary offers some surprisingly simple solutions to deter squatters, and you won’t want to miss this episode that reveals one of the hidden issues in real estate investing. In this episode, you will hear: George McCleary’s thoughts on squatters and why they feel more emboldened today Some of the strategies you can use to protect your property from squatters Who professional squatters are, and the difficulty of getting them out of your property The “cash for keys” scheme and when it pays to take that option The story behind George’s video, “I Stole a House.” How to avoid becoming the low-hanging fruit for squatters George’s path to real estate post-college and his first experiences with landlording The appeal of tangibility in real estate and creating something George’s current favorite asset class and his reasons for loving it Title fraud, its relation to squatting, and why you can’t stop it His catalyst for beginning his company, Squatter Defender Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on . Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, we've created a PDF that has all of the key information for you from the episode. Just go to the episode page at https://zenandtheartofrealestateinvesting.com/podcast/171/ to download it. Supporting Resources: Squatter Defender website - (use the code Zen for 20% off) George McCleary on YouTube - George’s Facebook account - Find George McCleary on Instagram - Connect with George on LinkedIn - George’s Twitter/X - Find George on TikTok - Title Fraud Defender website - (use the code Zen for 20% off) Website - YouTube - Instagram - Instagram - TikTok - Zillow - Bigger Pockets - Facebook - Email - Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at Let them know we sent you.
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170: How to Walk the Path to a Mindset of Abundance with Matt King
09/05/2024
170: How to Walk the Path to a Mindset of Abundance with Matt King
Mindset is everything in nearly every aspect of the real estate business. Having an abundance mindset means opening yourself up to opportunities as they arise. On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan sits down with Matt King, CEO of Gobundance. Gobundance is a high-level entrepreneurial group. Matt also manages DRO Investments, a family office based in Austin, Texas, where he oversees multiple companies and leads investment decisions while planning and implementing personal and business functions. Jonathan and Matt start their conversation by delving into the motivation behind Gobundance and the difference between abundance and scarcity mindsets. You’ll hear why there is no such thing as the perfect deal, why your actions must be aligned with your words, and the importance of living in balance and having your life in order, which carries over to your business. Matt shares what the Gobundance Empire Expander offers, how he initially became interested in real estate, and the power of momentum. Finally, Matt and Jonathan discuss what creating generational wealth can do for your family and community, why staying in a W2 job can help position you for the most success, and how to find a mentor the right way. While mindset may not be your biggest priority when it comes to real estate investing, Matt King makes a case for putting it at the top of your list. In this episode, you will hear: The motivation behind Gobundance and the difference between abundance and scarcity mindsets Why there is no such thing as the perfect deal, and actions have to be aligned with your words Living in balance and having your life in order which carries over to your business The Gobundance Empire Expander activity to help determine what changes in your life you may need to make How Matt King initially became interested in real estate and his very first deal The power of momentum and saying yes to opportunities aligned with your vision Creating generational wealth and what it can do for your family and community Staying in the W2 to position yourself for the most success and putting in the work Avoiding comparison to others and confirmation bias Finding a mentor and approaching it in the right way What Gobundance offers and why it isn’t the right fit for everyone Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on . Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, we've created a PDF that has all of the key information for you from the episode. Just go to the episode page at https://zenandtheartofrealestateinvesting.com/podcast/170/ to download it. Supporting Resources: Matt King’s website - Matt on YouTube - Matt’s Facebook profile - Find Matt on Instagram - Connect with Matt King on LinkedIn - Gobundance website - Website - YouTube - Instagram - Instagram - TikTok - Zillow - Bigger Pockets - Facebook - Email - Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at Let them know we sent you.
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169: How to Never Buy an Unprofitable Short-Term Rental with Taylor Jones
09/02/2024
169: How to Never Buy an Unprofitable Short-Term Rental with Taylor Jones
Short-term rentals can be lucrative, but they can become unprofitable weights around your neck if you aren't careful. On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan sits down with Taylor Jones, Head of Acquisition for STR Search. Taylor is also Techvestor's Head of Acquisition. He is an experienced short-term rental investor who knows how to maximize profits from every square foot of a property and teaches others to do the same. Jonathan and Taylor begin their conversation by delving into how Taylor Jones became a short-term rental expert after a career in sales. Taylor explains how he carved out a niche with STRs by offering amenities and using guest avatars. You’ll hear the pros and cons of buying where you like to vacation, Taylor’s take on clustering as you build a portfolio, and why STRs are not passive income. Jonathan and Taylor explore the two components you must have in STRs to stand out, dynamic pricing, and Taylor’s anti-condo stance. Taylor explains how he creates revenue from every square foot of a property, why he stays focused on one property type, and some emerging and evolving trends in the STR space. Finally, Taylor reveals Airbnb’s role in marketing for owners and consumers. For the savvy and determined investor, Taylor Jones shares how rising tides can raise all boats in the short-term rental market. In this episode, you will hear: How Taylor Jones ended up in the short-term rental space after a career in sales Creating a short-term rental experience for guests, including amenities like game rooms and firepits, using guest avatars The pros and cons of buying where you like to vacation Taylor’s take on clustering and proximity as you build a portfolio Why STRs are not passive income and the two components you have to have The importance of dynamic pricing Taylor’s anti-condo stance and creating revenue from every square foot of a property Remaining focused on one property type versus multiple types Sharing information with other investors because rising tides lift all boats Emerging and evolving trends in the STR space Airbnb’s role in marketing for owners and consumers Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on . Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, we've created a PDF that has all of the key information for you from the episode. Just go to the episode page at https://zenandtheartofrealestateinvesting.com/podcast/169/ to download it. Supporting Resources: STR Search website - Find Taylor Jones on Instagram - Connect with Taylor on LinkedIn - Taylor Jones on X - Website - YouTube - Instagram - Instagram - TikTok - Zillow - Bigger Pockets - Facebook - Email - Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at Let them know we sent you.
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168: The Unflashy Path to Multifamily Real Estate That Anyone Can Follow with Lee Yoder
08/29/2024
168: The Unflashy Path to Multifamily Real Estate That Anyone Can Follow with Lee Yoder
Finding your real estate investing niche doesn’t have to be flashy or complicated. Being a one-trick pony can be a lucrative asset. On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan welcomes Lee Yoder to the show. Lee is the founder and CEO of Threefold Real Estate Investing, which helps investors achieve passive cash flow, growth, and wealth through multifamily properties. Lee also stuck with his W2 physical therapy position while growing Threefold into the company it is today. Jonathan and Lee open their conversation by delving into Lee’s physical therapy career, revealing that his experience with a startup company exposed him to entrepreneurship. Lee shares the difference between wanting to be an entrepreneur and wanting money and why they aren’t the same. You’ll hear about the compound effect, Lee’s intentional decision to start small with gradual expansion, and how he reins in his desire to expand faster than he should while following the 1% rule. He reveals the criteria he uses to buy new properties while building more credibility, what Lee feels is the most challenging part of scaling his business, and when he decided to bring in property management. Finally, Jonathan and Lee discuss where Lee focuses his investing efforts, what you should look for in syndications, why he’s sticking to multifamily real estate, and the importance of being an active learner in this industry. Real estate investing doesn’t have to be flashy to succeed. Lee Yoder’s story is a prime example of that philosophy. In this episode, you will hear: What led Lee Yoder to real estate investing after a career in physical therapy The difference between wanting to become an entrepreneur and wanting money The compound effect Starting small and gradual expansion How Lee reins in the urge to expand faster than he should and following the 1% rule The criteria he uses to purchase new properties and earn more credibility The most challenging part of scaling his business and when to hire property management Where Lee focuses his investing efforts and what to look for in syndications Why he’s sticking to multifamily instead of branching out The importance of being an active learner in the real estate business Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on . Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, we've created a PDF that has all of the key information for you from the episode. Just go to the episode page at https://zenandtheartofrealestateinvesting.com/podcast/168/ to download it. Supporting Resources: Threefold Real Estate Investing website - Find ThreeFold on YouTube - Threefold on Facebook - Lee Yoder on Instagram - Connect with Lee on LinkedIn - Website - YouTube - Instagram - Instagram - TikTok - Zillow - Bigger Pockets - Facebook - Email - Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at Let them know we sent you.
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167: The Path to Passivity Through Mortgage Note Investing with Chris Seveney
08/26/2024
167: The Path to Passivity Through Mortgage Note Investing with Chris Seveney
Not all real estate investing involves buying properties. Considering the alternatives can save you the headaches of hands-on asset management. On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan sits down with Chris Seveney, CEO and co-founder of 7E Investments. Chris has a multimillion-dollar asset portfolio, and his background includes the management of construction and rehab of properties worth over $150 million. He also managed an impressive $750 million in new construction, and since 2016, Chris has been in the mortgage note game. Jonathan and Chris discuss their involvement with the BiggerPockets community and its benefits. They cover what took Chris away from buying properties and toward mortgage notes, which leads to a conversation about why new flippers must be careful, sharing some of Chris’s experiences on construction sites. Chris explains the differential between mortgage notes and tax liens and why he finds notes attractive. You’ll hear how to avoid FOMO, why taking action doesn’t always mean buying right away, and what Chris’s first foray into real estate taught him. Finally, Jonathan and Chris dive into purchasing notes, what makes it different from real estate, and the initial blunders Chris made when he began investing. He also shares some thoughtful advice for new investors and why he recommends they understand their investor profiles. Real estate investing takes many forms, and Chris Seveney discovered mortgage notes were a perfect fit for his style. If hands-on real estate investing isn’t your style, you won’t want to miss this episode. In this episode, you will hear: The benefits of being a part of the BiggerPockets community What took Chris Seveney away from buying properties and toward mortgage notes Why new flippers have to be careful The differential between mortgage notes and tax liens and what makes notes attractive Avoiding FOMO and what taking action looks like in practice Chris’s first foray into real estate investing and what it taught him The process of purchasing notes and why it’s different than real estate His blunders when he first started investing in notes and avoiding shiny object syndrome Chris’s advice for new investors and the importance of understanding your investor profile Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on . Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, we've created a PDF that has all of the key information for you from the episode. Just go to the episode page at https://zenandtheartofrealestateinvesting.com/podcast/167/ to download it. Supporting Resources: 7E Investments website - 7E Investments on YouTube - Find 7E Investments on Facebook - 7E Investments on Instagram - Connect with Chris Seveney on LinkedIn - Find 7E Investments on TikTok - How 7E Investments works - Website - YouTube - Instagram - Instagram - TikTok - Zillow - Bigger Pockets - Facebook - Email - Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at Let them know we sent you.
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166: The Path From Wholesaling to Flipping Houses on TV with Dedric and Krystal Polite
08/22/2024
166: The Path From Wholesaling to Flipping Houses on TV with Dedric and Krystal Polite
Going all in on a mastermind could be an expensive mistake or a brilliant way to ensure you take your real estate investing business seriously. On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan welcomes Dedric and Krystal Polite, a home-flipping couple who wound their way from wholesaling to flipping “50/50 Flip,” a Hulu and A&E show. Dedric and Krystal are real estate investors, entrepreneurs, mentors, and the owners of Be Polite Properties, a home-buying and acquisition company that is growing into other markets. Jonathan, Dedric, and Krystal start their discussion by delving into when the real estate bug hit both Dedric and Krystal. They explore their roles in the business, the strategic plan they used to leave their corporate day jobs, and how they operate a virtual wholesaling business. You’ll hear why leveraging social media is a critical part of their business, how investing in an expensive mastermind helped them get serious, and why the power of association can help you succeed. Jonathan, Dedric, and Krystal explain the importance of creating a qualified team to help manage your business as you scale, how they landed their “50/50 Flip” show, and how they approach landlording to attract high-end and high-quality tenants. Dedric and Krystal wanted out of the corporate grind, and when they went all in on real estate, they discovered how well it could work for them. They love helping others learn how to be successful and share some of their secrets to making it work. In this episode, you will hear: When the real estate bug hit Dedric and Krystal Polite Krystal’s role as the visionary and Dedric’s as the integrator How they strategically planned to leave their jobs once they got into real estate investing Their virtual wholesaling business and how they stay on top of what’s happening in various markets Leveraging social media to build a virtual business Investing in masterminds and taking value away from them Why the power of association can help you succeed What networking can offer to new investors The property that got the Polites started on their journey Building relationships now to create opportunities later Creating a qualified team to surround you as the business grows The genesis of Dedric and Krystal’s show, “50/50 Flip” Attracting high-end, long-term tenants with high-quality materials and using short-term rentals to subsidize creating more affordable long-term properties Landlording properties as though their moms are living in them Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on . Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, we've created a PDF that has all of the key information for you from the episode. Just go to the episode page at https://zenandtheartofrealestateinvesting.com/podcast/166/ to download it. Supporting Resources: Be Polite Properties website - Find Be Polite on YouTube - Dedric Polite on Instagram - Krystal Polite’s Instagram - Connect with Dedric on LinkedIn - Connect with Krystal on LinkedIn - Join the Polite Wealth Portal - 50/50 Flip - Website - YouTube - Instagram - Instagram - TikTok - Zillow - Bigger Pockets - Facebook - Email - Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at Let them know we sent you.
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165: Turning Dormant Spaces into Lucrative Storage Assets with Joseph Woodbury
08/19/2024
165: Turning Dormant Spaces into Lucrative Storage Assets with Joseph Woodbury
Millions of square feet of space sit unused and are often forgotten about. One innovative company is working to change that. On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan sits down with Joseph Woodbury, co-founder and CEO of Neighbor.com. Neighbor’s mission is to match people who have vacant spaces with people looking for somewhere to store their cars, RVs, boats, and other personal items. Those providing the vacant spaces for rent have an opportunity to create a truly passive income. Jonathan and Joseph discuss how Joseph started Neighbor and what differentiates it from other platforms. Neighbor has evolved since its inception, and they explore the low barrier of entry to passive income and why multifamily and commercial real estate are driving its growth. You’ll hear why renters love using Neighbor, how rev sharing gets them on board, and the benefits of having a storage space nearby rather than in another part of town. Joseph explains how using ancillary income can help owners maintain appreciation and add value. He also shares the selling point Neighor creates and why it offers more options by presenting an additional source of income on a property. Finally, Jonathan and Joseph cover how Neighbor assists with evictions and the environmental benefits of using existing square footage versus building more. With some extra land or unused facilities on a property, Neighbor is helping property owners create the ideal passive income scenario. In this episode, you will hear: Joseph Woodbury’s real estate story and how he started his company, Neighbor What differentiates Neighbor from other platforms and how it’s changed since its inception The low barrier of entry to passive income with Neighbor and how multifamily and commercial real estate are driving growth Why renters love using Neighbor for storage Rev sharing with tenants and what renters love about it The benefits of having a storage space nearby using Neighbor rather than in another part of town Using ancillary income to hang on to maintain appreciation and add value The attrition rates of tenants using Neighbor to locate storage spaces Creating a selling point and more options by offering an additional source of income on a property How Neighbor helps clients handle evictions The environmental benefits of using existing square footage versus building more Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on . Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, we've created a PDF that has all of the key information for you from the episode. Just go to the episode page at https://zenandtheartofrealestateinvesting.com/podcast/165/ to download it. Supporting Resources: Neighbor website - Neighbor on YouTube - Neighbor’s Facebook page - Get the Neighbor app - Connect with Joseph Woodbury on LinkedIn - Joseph on Twitter/X - Website - YouTube - Instagram - Instagram - TikTok - Zillow - Bigger Pockets - Facebook - Email - Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at Let them know we sent you.
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164: Investing in Inspired Lifestyles for Adventurous Souls with Mike Cobb
08/15/2024
164: Investing in Inspired Lifestyles for Adventurous Souls with Mike Cobb
Many dream of purchasing international properties, whether for their own use or rentals. Knowing the right questions to ask and understanding how to navigate the buying process in an international location is critical. On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan sits down with Mike Cobb, CEO of ECI Development, one of Latin America’s most exciting, diversified resort development companies providing inspired lifestyles for adventurous souls. Mike’s career in international real estate began 30 years ago when he took a trip to Belize. Mike is also the author of “How to Buy Your Home Overseas: And Get It Right the First Time!” As Jonathan and Mike begin their conversation, Mike explains how he initially started buying properties in Belize, ultimately creating a mortgage company and a bank. Mike outlines how he and his business partner began developing properties in Belize and beyond, how relationships with local bankers and developers contributed to the business's success, and two reasons he likes the tough regulatory market in Belize. You’ll hear why you must clearly define who your customers are to provide the product they want, the buyer shift and the factors behind that, and how medical tourism influences developments in countries like Belize. Finally, Jonathan and Mike explore the positive impact real estate development can have on a local community, Mike’s advice for buying in another country, and what his book offers those who want to purchase international property. If you’ve ever toyed with buying a home in another country, you won’t want to miss Mike Cobb’s expert advice backed by years of experience in Latin America. In this episode, you will hear: How Mike Cobb discovered real estate investing opportunities in Belize and created a deal The genesis of Mike and his business partner’s mortgage company in the 1990s, which later became a bank catering to foreign property buyers His development projects in Belize and beyond The importance of relationships Mike created with local bankers and developers Two reasons he likes a tough regulatory environment Clearly defining who your customers are to provide the product they want The shift in buyers over the years and the factors that impact who they are Medical tourism and its influence on developing real estate in countries like Belize The positive impact real estate development can have on the local community Mike’s advice for buying property in another country How his book can help answer questions about international property purchases Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on . Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, we've created a PDF that has all of the key information for you from the episode. Just go to the episode page at https://zenandtheartofrealestateinvesting.com/podcast/164/ to download it. Supporting Resources: ECI Development’s website - Find Mike Cobb on Facebook - Connect with Mike on LinkedIn - Website - YouTube - Instagram - Instagram - TikTok - Zillow - Bigger Pockets - Facebook - Email - Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at Let them know we sent you.
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163: The Road to Becoming an Unlikely Real Estate Investor with Grant Francke
08/12/2024
163: The Road to Becoming an Unlikely Real Estate Investor with Grant Francke
Sometimes, it’s the W2 job that convinces you to pursue a different career—one that offers time freedom and the ability to control your income. On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan welcomes investor Grant Francke to the show. Grant is the author of “The Unlikely Investor: A Path to Financial Freedom Through Real Estate. He began investing in real estate while still working for the railroad, and Grant quickly caught the bug, spending a lot of time learning more about the industry. It ultimately led him to quit the W2 railroad job and become a full-time real estate investor. Jonathan and Grant explore Grant’s exposure as a kid to real estate investing through his dad, how he found his “why,” and how he was ultimately able to leave his railroad job to invest full-time. Grant shares why it was important for his wife to be on board with him in this venture, how his W2 helped them kickstart their investing, and how he used seller financing to fund his first few properties following his first duplex. Grant shares when he began to create systems and processes, the importance of building relationships in your local community, and why he likes keeping his portfolio local. You’ll hear how he began transitioning into larger multifamily properties, the role of educating himself with podcasts and books in growing the business, and why Grant believes he waited too long to hire an assistant. Successful real estate investors can come from any background, and Grant Francke is setting that example for his children and others as he builds an impressive portfolio in his community. In this episode, you will hear: Grant Francke’s path to real estate investing and why he decided to do it differently than his dad Finding your “why” and building systems and processes around it to scale When Grant left his railroad job after he started investing The importance of a spouse who’s on board with real estate investing How W2 income helped Grant and his wife start investing in properties and their first investment property What he had to do to finance his next few properties and how it led to creating systems and processes Doing your due diligence and building relationships in your community for local deals Why building relationships is the most important part of real estate investing The benefits of keeping your real estate portfolio local Grant’s transition into larger multifamily properties versus duplexes or single-family assets Involving his family in the business and how podcasts and books helped him take the business to the next level The role real estate meetups had in showing Grant what was possible How clustering locally helps him identify good investment properties and offers credibility Scaling at a reasonable pace, staying in your lane, and knowing your why Hiring someone you trust to free up even more time Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on . Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, we've created a PDF that has all of the key information for you from the episode. Just go to the episode page at https://zenandtheartofrealestateinvesting.com/podcast/163/ to download it. Supporting Resources: Grant Francke’s website - Find Grant on Facebook - Connect with Grant on Instagram - Website - YouTube - Instagram - Instagram - TikTok - Zillow - Bigger Pockets - Facebook - Email - Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at Let them know we sent you.
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162: Unique Strategies For Short-Term Rental Profitability with Michael Chang
08/08/2024
162: Unique Strategies For Short-Term Rental Profitability with Michael Chang
What if you didn’t have to buy your own property to turn it into a short-term rental investment? On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan sits down with Michael Chang, co-founder and partner at TrustBNB Vacation Rentals and TrustBNB Capital. Michael is a New York-based investor who owns and operates a portfolio of short-term rentals in Philadelphia and the Tennessee Smoky Mountains. He is an expert in using arbitrage for short-term rental properties. Michael shares other non-traditional investing methods while outlining how location and your experience level meet. Jonathan and Michael begin their conversation by exploring Michael Chang’s experience as an immigrant to the U.S. as a child and his first exposure to real estate when his family bought a home. He shares how he and his wife began real estate investing with short-term rentals in Queens, New York, using arbitrage. Michael explains the benefits of jumping into the investing waters and using trial and error to determine what works for your business. You’ll hear Michael’s buy box requirements for arbitrage, his competitive advantage in Philadelphia, and the value of flexibility as an investor. Finally, Jonathan and Michael delve into the specifics of his Smoky Mountains properties, revealing the impact HOAs have on them, how the market there has shifted, and his tips for new investors who want to use arbitrage in their portfolios. Michael Chang makes a strong case for arbitrage if you’ve ever considered short-term rentals but aren’t sure if you want to jump in with purchasing your own properties. In this episode, you will hear: Michael Chang’s experience as an immigrant to the U.S. and his exposure to real estate when his family bought their first house How he and his wife began real estate investing with short-term rentals in Queens, New York Leveraging rental arbitrage to test the short-term rental waters The benefits of jumping in and using trial-and-error to figure out what works for your rental business Michael’s buy box for rentals he’s looking to arbitrage The underrated competitive advantage he has in Philadelphia Why a lack of amenities in arbitraged apartments isn’t necessarily a bad thing The value of flexibility as an investor and how that benefitted Michale with his Smoky Mountains properties The impact of HOAs on short-term rentals How the market has shifted Michael’s tips for using arbitrage in real estate investing Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on . Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, we've created a PDF that has all of the key information for you from the episode. Just go to the episode page at https://zenandtheartofrealestateinvesting.com/podcast/162/ to download it. Supporting Resources: Michael Chang on Instagram - Connect with Michael on LinkedIn - Michael’s TikTok - Website - YouTube - Instagram - Instagram - TikTok - Zillow - Bigger Pockets - Facebook - Email - Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at Let them know we sent you.
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161: Long-Term Wealth From Strategic Value-Add Multifamily with Mike Roeder
08/05/2024
161: Long-Term Wealth From Strategic Value-Add Multifamily with Mike Roeder
Most investors begin their careers with one asset class in mind but quickly find their niches as they progress. Today’s guest is one such investor. On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan interviews Mike Roeder, co-founder and managing partner at Granite Towers Equity Group. Mike oversees operations, acquisitions, investor relations, and asset management. Additionally, he is the co-host of the podcast Keeping It Real-Estate and co-author of “4 Steps to Successful Passive Investing.” Jonathan and Mike begin their conversation by exploring the house hack Mike and his now-wife did in their early 20s that introduced him to real estate investing, how he landed in syndications through multifamily assets and scaling his portfolio, and why he decided to begin diversifying outside Minnesota. Mike shares how he slowly scaled, what his ideal value-add apartment complex and neighborhood look like, and how he caters to residents and offers access to amenities. Finally, Jonathan and Mike delve into what appealed to Mike about Nashville and Dallas-Fort Worth, the four steps to successful passive investing, and why passive investing still requires work. Creating long-term wealth takes time, but adding multifamily value-add syndications into your portfolio can help you get there a little bit faster. In this episode, you will hear: Mike Roeder’s first investment property as a house hack in his early 20s that caused him to fall in love with real estate His path into syndications through multifamily assets and scaling the portfolio Diversifying outside of Minnesota into other markets in syndications Why Mike chose to scale slowly and now targets properties with 150+ units Getting over the humps to offer a deliverable that will be attractive to investors Mike’s advice for finding the right mentor in your niche and who he chooses to help His ideal value-add apartment complex and neighborhood classification preferences Renovating apartments at lease turnover and the option he offers current residents Catering to your residents and offering access to amenities The factors that appealed to Mike about Nashville and Dallas-Fort Worth The four steps to successful passive investing Due diligence that must be performed on older properties Why passive investing still requires upfront work on your part Mike’s advice for brand-new investors Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on . Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, we've created a PDF that has all of the key information for you from the episode. Just go to the episode page at https://zenandtheartofrealestateinvesting.com/podcast/161/ to download it. Supporting Resources: Granite Towers Equity Group website - Find Mike Roeder on Facebook - Mike’s Instagram - Connect with Mike on LinkedIn - Website - YouTube - Instagram - Instagram - TikTok - Zillow - Bigger Pockets - Facebook - Email - Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at Let them know we sent you.
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160: The Wake-Up Call to Lead a Life by Design with Paul Thompson
08/01/2024
160: The Wake-Up Call to Lead a Life by Design with Paul Thompson
Sometimes, a moment of clarity can lead you down a different career path—one that’s both a better fit for what you want in life and that offers new opportunities. On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan interviews Paul Thompson, a bestselling author, full-time real estate investor, coach, hard money lender, and host of The Wake Up Call podcast. He is also the founder of One Call Capital. Jonathan and Paul start by exploring what pushed Paul out of his comfortable W2 position and into a career in real estate investing. Paul shares one of the most common mistakes investors make, how his first property hooked him into real estate, and some hard lessons that led him to change his strategy. You’ll hear how a layoff propelled him to pursue a larger portfolio, why you need to learn what you’re good at and what to let go of, and the criteria he looks for in a first-time borrower as a hard money lender. Finally, Jonathan and Paul delve into Paul’s preference for assets that provide residential service, how he remains focused on his end goal, and his advice for finding a mentor or coach without paying for an expensive mastermind or coaching program. Paul Thompson has designed the life he wants after recognizing that the corporate world left him vulnerable to its whims, and with the right tools, you can do the same. In this episode, you will hear: Real estate’s role in Paul Thompson’s master life plan and the catalyst he needed to finally begin investing One of the most common mistakes real estate investors make Why you don’t need to pay someone to tell you how to get into real estate investing Paul’s first investment property and how it hooked him into real estate Some of the hard lessons he had to learn before changing his strategy How a layoff led to creating a bigger portfolio Learning what you’re good at and what to let go of What Paul’s business offers to investors The criteria he looks for in a first-time borrower Why Paul prefers assets that provide a residential service and the mistake investors often make Remaining focused on the end goal and how the EOS framework helps accomplish it Finding a mentor or a coach and Paul’s advice for new investors Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on . Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, we've created a PDF that has all of the key information for you from the episode. Just go to the episode page at https://zenandtheartofrealestateinvesting.com/podcast/160/ to download it. Supporting Resources: Real Estate 101 - Real Estate 101 on YouTube - Peter Conti’s Commercial Investing Community - Paul Thompson’s Instagram - Connect with Paul on LinkedIn - Paul’s hub site - Paul Thompson on TikTok - Website - YouTube - Instagram - Instagram - TikTok - Zillow - Bigger Pockets - Facebook - Email - Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at Let them know we sent you.
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159: Fractional Real Estate Investing as a Group with Brian Davis
07/29/2024
159: Fractional Real Estate Investing as a Group with Brian Davis
As a new investor, you may not be prepared to take on the full risk of purchasing properties or buying into a syndication without experience. Fractional real estate investing could be the sweet spot you’ve been looking for. On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan sits down with Brian Davis, co-founder of Spark Rental. Spark Rental is an investing club that focuses on fractional real estate investing. Brian came up with this idea after his own experience with investing and deciding there had to be a better way for new investors to get started. Jonathan and Brian delve into what led Brian to a career in real estate investing after working with a hard money lender. You’ll hear the 50% rule he uses to help investors understand their expenses, how he paid tuition to the school of hard knocks to learn some important lessons, and the most challenging part of real estate investing for new investors. They cover why Brian disliked landlording, which led him to co-found Spark Rental. Finally, Jonathan and Brian outline the two challenges new, non-accredited investors have, the importance of timeline diversification, and the advantages of a fractional investing model like Spark Rental. Fractional real estate investing is a viable option for investors who aren’t comfortable going all-in on their first property, and Brian Davis makes a compelling case for its benefits. In this episode, you will hear: How a job with a hard money lender led to Brian Davis’s career in real estate The 50% rule that he uses to help new investors wrap their heads around the expenses of investing Paying tuition to the school of hard knocks and learning lessons the hard way The most challenging part of real estate investing for new investors Minimizing turnover rates as a landlord to maximize profits Brian’s dislike of landlording and what pushed him out of it The story behind Spark Rental and what it does as a fractional real estate investing model Two challenges new, non-accredited investors face The importance of timeline diversification The advantages of an investing model like Spark Rental for investors who aren’t yet ready for a syndication Brian’s favorite asset class and why it appeals to him Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on . Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, we've created a PDF that has all of the key information for you from the episode. Just go to the episode page at https://zenandtheartofrealestateinvesting.com/podcast/159/ to download it. Supporting Resources: Spark Rental website - Spark Rental on YouTube - Find Spark Rental on Facebook - Spark Rental’s Instagram account - Connect with Spark Rental on LinkedIn - Spark Rental on Twitter/X - Website - YouTube - Instagram - Instagram - TikTok - Zillow - Bigger Pockets - Facebook - Email - Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at Let them know we sent you.
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158: Real Estate Investing to Create a Life of Freedom with Tony Lopes
07/25/2024
158: Real Estate Investing to Create a Life of Freedom with Tony Lopes
Crafting a lifestyle of freedom in your 40s may sound like an impossibly far-fetched goal, but today’s guest is living out that goal and teaching others to do the same. On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan welcomes guest Tony Lopes, CEO of Dirty Boots Capital, author of “Freedom at Risk,” and real estate investor, consultant, professional, and macroeconomic enthusiast. Tony’s father worked full-time in construction while managing real estate investments on the side. Tony’s mother would remind him to remove his dirty boots, which is where the name of Tony’s company originates. Tony has a mechanical engineering degree as well as an MBA. Jonathan and Tony start their conversation by exploring how a layoff led Tony to real estate investing. He emphasizes the enormous amount of free information available to new investors, how Tony learned using the trial-and-error method, and the two areas of real estate where investors get stuck. You’ll hear from Tony how to overcome the psychological hurdles of investing, what it means to position yourself on the edge of the coin, and Tony’s advice for using current market conditions to educate yourself before jumping in. Tony shares how networking and creating relationships now can benefit you later, why you need to know your value and skill set you can bring to the table, and Tony’s trajectory from a fourplex to where he is today. As Jonathan and Tony approach the end of their discussion, they explore why Tony wrote his book, “Freedom at Risk,” his decision to invest in landlord-friendly states, evaluating a property’s distress level, and what you can learn from investing in a property despite higher interest rates. Tony Lopes’s retirement at 44 is inspiring, and you’ll hear why he started a second career focused on helping others do real estate right. In this episode, you will hear: How a layoff led Tony Lopes to real estate investing The free content available to new investors who are ready to learn Learning trial by error The two areas of real estate where investors get stuck Overcoming the psychological hurdles of investing Positioning yourself to be on the edge of the coin to win Understanding that it’s okay to make mistakes and learn from them Tony’s advice for using the current market conditions as a new investor to educate yourself before jumping into the market Networking and creating relationships that can benefit you later Knowing your value and what you can bring to the table Tony’s trajectory from his first fourplex to where he is today Why Tony Lopes wrote his book to help others find their freedom Choosing landlord-friendly states to invest in based on the macroeconomics of the area Evaluating the distress a property is in and what is causing the distress What you can learn from investing in a property despite higher interest rates Why you have to be careful where you’re receiving information from The story behind Dirty Boots Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on . Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, we've created a PDF that has all of the key information for you from the episode. Just go to the episode page at https://zenandtheartofrealestateinvesting.com/podcast/158/ to download it. Supporting Resources: Dirty Boots Capital - Dirty Boots Capital on YouTube - Find Dirty Boots Capital on Facebook - Dirty Boots Capital on Instagram - Connect with Tony Lopes on LinkedIn - Tony Lopes on Twitter/X - Website - YouTube - Instagram - Instagram - TikTok - Zillow - Bigger Pockets - Facebook - Email - Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at Let them know we sent you.
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157: How to Climb The Wealth Elevator Through Real Estate with Lane Kawaoka
07/22/2024
157: How to Climb The Wealth Elevator Through Real Estate with Lane Kawaoka
Understanding where you are on The Wealth Elevator can help you figure out what it takes to get to the next floor on the wealth path. On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan welcomes Lane Kawaoka, author of “The Wealth Elevator,” to the show. Lane is also CEO of The Wealth Elevator, focusing on real estate syndications, accredited investor banking, and tax strategies for first-generation millionaires. Lane wants to be the person to take these first-generation millionaires from the investment floors all the way up to financial freedom. As Jonathan and Lane begin their discussion, Lane shares how he entered the world of real estate investing in his early 20s and where he started buying properties after renting out that first property. You’ll hear the pros and cons of Lane’s out-of-state rentals, what drew him into syndications, and why he wrote “The Wealth Elevator.” Jonathan and Lane explore what Lane calls “the forgotten years,” why most people fail to realize their time is worth more than money, and the levels of The Wealth Elevator. You’ll hear three things to look for in a real estate syndication, the landmines you can encounter in syndications, and Lane’s reasoning for adding diversification to his portfolio outside of real estate. Finally, they cover how Lane coaches his clients to set their expectations for syndications, why you should rely on experts, how a portfolio changes as wealth accumulates, and why you don’t want to invest alongside the average Joe. With The Wealth Elevator, Lane Kawaoka provides an illustrative way to envision your wealth journey. In this episode, you will hear: Lane Kawaoka’s entry into real estate in his early 20s as an engineer who wasn’t home much and decided to rent his home out Where Lane began buying properties after renting out his first house in Seattle The pros and cons of his turnkey out-of-state rentals What drew him into syndications and why he wrote “The Wealth Elevator” “The forgotten years” Lane is addressing and the motivation having kids gives people Why most people don’t realize their time is worth more than money until they hit $1.5 million net worth The levels of The Wealth Elevator and where most people start Three things to check for in a real estate syndication Some of the landmines you can encounter in syndications Why syndications don’t mean making a quick buck Lane’s reasoning for adding some diversification to his portfolio outside of real estate How he coaches his clients to set their expectations with syndications The tradeoff between liquidity and higher returns Relying on experts to find good syndication deals How a portfolio changes as an investor reaches a larger net worth Lane’s favorite asset class as an owner Why you don’t want to invest alongside the average Joe The ideal reader of “The Wealth Elevator” Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on . Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, we've created a PDF that has all of the key information for you from the episode. Just go to the episode page at https://zenandtheartofrealestateinvesting.com/podcast/157/ to download it. Supporting Resources: The Wealth Elevator website - The Wealth Elevator on YouTube - Find The Wealth Elevator on Instagram - Website - YouTube - Instagram - Instagram - TikTok - Zillow - Bigger Pockets - Facebook - Email - Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at Let them know we sent you.
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156: Transforming Underutilized Hotels into Vibrant Apartment Ecosystems with Alex Cartwright
07/18/2024
156: Transforming Underutilized Hotels into Vibrant Apartment Ecosystems with Alex Cartwright
You may look at a distressed hotel and consider it an eyesore, but innovative real estate investors are turning them into properties with a purpose. On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan interviews Alex Cartwright, Department Chair of the Management Department at Ferris State University and Principal at Hotel SHIFT, which specializes in hotel-to-apartment conversions. Alex is also a professor of economics. Jonathan and Alex start their discussion by exploring Alex’s interest in real estate, which began in graduate school. You’ll hear his explanation of the ability to generate alpha in real estate, how real estate allows you to control your destiny, and why he encourages his students to do house hacks. Jonathan and Alex explore the types of clientele upscale multifamily properties attract, why it can be beneficial to rent instead of buy, and the importance of avoiding making decisions on principles. You’ll hear how his lack of excitement about apartment buildings led to founding Hotel SHIFT, the two reasons hotels make great investments, and why buying hotels makes more sense than converting other commercial spaces. Finally, they cover the size of hotels Alex is looking for, the features they should have, the importance of prioritizing occupancy over rent, and what limited partners can expect when they invest with Hotel SHIFT. If you’re seeking a syndication investment that’s a bit out of the ordinary, Alex Cartwright outlines why hotel conversions could be what you’re looking for. In this episode, you will hear: Alex Cartwright’s interest in real estate that began in graduate school in Washington, D.C. What appealed to him about real estate and the ability to generate alpha Controlling your destiny with how you operate your real estate business Why Alex encourages his students to do house hacks and still lives in a multifamily himself today The clientele that upscale multifamily properties attract The benefits of renting versus buying Avoiding making decisions on principles and instead, learn to run the numbers and make the decision best for you How Alex’s lack of excitement about apartments led to starting Hotel SHIFT The two reasons hotels make great investments Why buying hotels makes more sense than other commercial spaces The size of the hotels he looks for when looking for his next purchase and the features they need to have What tenants are looking for when they rent one of Alex’s properties Prioritizing occupancy before optimizing rent and the amount of time it takes to hit his goals What limited partners can expect if they invest with Hotel SHIFT Taking on a little more risk to get a bigger reward Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on . Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, we've created a PDF that has all of the key information for you from the episode. Just go to the episode page at https://zenandtheartofrealestateinvesting.com/podcast/156/ to download it. Supporting Resources: Hotel SHIFT website - Find Alex Cartwright on Instagram - Connect with Alex on LinkedIn - Website - YouTube - Instagram - Instagram - TikTok - Zillow - Bigger Pockets - Facebook - Email - Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at Let them know we sent you.
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155: How Operational Efficiency Forces Appreciation in Multifamily with Jered Sturm
07/15/2024
155: How Operational Efficiency Forces Appreciation in Multifamily with Jered Sturm
It may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you consider real estate investing, but those with training in the trades have a unique advantage as investors. They understand the day-to-day expenses of maintaining and running an asset better than most. On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jered Sturm joins Jonathan to discuss his real estate investing venture in the Cincinnati, Ohio, area. Jered is the co-founder and CEO of SNS Capital Group, a private equity investment firm specializing in creating wealth through real estate. SNS Capital focuses on acquiring and operating large apartment communities. SNS Capital uses operational efficiency to force appreciation in these multifamily properties. As they open their conversation, Jonathan and Jered delve into Jered’s first exposure to real estate in high school, the competitive advantage his natural affinity for trades gave him, and how a house hack helped him jumpstart his real estate investing career. Jered shares why the first few purchases he made were with cash, the challenges he experienced as he moved into larger-scale multifamily apartment buildings, and the benefits of having a successful track record before he began borrowing. Jered shares the biggest transition point in his career, the importance of understanding your competitive advantages, and the capacity you can handle on your own before hiring a team. He reveals the two components he looks for before purchasing value-add assets, how to evaluate properties for improvements they need that could force appreciation, and Jered’s reasoning for not hiring outside property management. Finally, Jered explains why he focuses on the Cincinnati market and how remaining process-focused instead of percentage-of-growth-focused benefits his business. If you’ve ever wondered if knowledge of the trades can help you start a real estate investing career, Jered Sturm’s story offers a resounding “yes.” In this episode, you will hear: Jered Sturm’s first exposure to real estate in high school and the competitive advantage he had How a house hack helped Jered jumpstart his real estate career His natural talent for work in the trades and how that benefited him as he built a real estate portfolio Why the first few purchases were cash purchases before moving into using lenders The challenges of moving into larger-scale multifamily apartment buildings The benefits of having a successful track record with cash before borrowing capital Challenges of owning larger multifamily units and why that required Jered to wear several hats as he managed it and attempted to grow The biggest transition point for Jered and when he realized he could step back Understanding your competitive advantages and the capacity of units you can handle with your own money first Two components Jered looks for before purchasing value-add assets Evaluating properties based on the improvements they require that may force appreciation Why property management is vertically integrated into Jered’s business model What he looks for in a property as he evaluates it for purchase Controlling vacancies for executional efficiency How being local allows Jered to create greater efficiency and predictability with each asset The lesson he learned about branching out to multiple markets when you aren’t familiar with them Jered’s comfort with his current position in the market and his reputation What Jered includes in his letter of intent when he makes an offer Remaining process-focused instead of focusing on the percentage of growth Cincinnati’s appeal for investors Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on . Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, we've created a PDF that has all of the key information for you from the episode. Just go to the episode page at https://zenandtheartofrealestateinvesting.com/podcast/155/ to download it. Supporting Resources: SNS Capital Group website - Find SNS Capital Group on Facebook - SNS Capital Group on Instagram - Connect with Jered Sturm on LinkedIn - Website - YouTube - Instagram - Instagram - TikTok - Zillow - Bigger Pockets - Facebook - Email - Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at Let them know we sent you.
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154: Learning How to Develop Dirt Out of Necessity with Clay Hepler
07/11/2024
154: Learning How to Develop Dirt Out of Necessity with Clay Hepler
While flipping, multifamily, and short-term rentals are some of the more popular real estate investing assets, land offers a vast blue ocean of untapped opportunities. On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan sits down with Clay Hepler, the Landman. Clay started his career with the intention of building a rental portfolio, but when things changed, he turned to land. Today, he is a land flipper and the CEO of Landman. As Jonathan and Clay begin their conversation, they delve into Clay’s decision to drop out of college and pivot toward real estate. They discuss the role of mindset in building a business, why you should avoid courses from “gurus” who haven’t put in the reps, the value of repetition, and why Clay adjusts his sales script every month. You’ll hear how lowball offers can open conversations with a seller, how Clay uses direct mail to reach potential sellers, why consistency separates those who are successful from those who are not, creating connections with your audience and relating to them, and the outcome of a reactive versus proactive business model. Finally, you’ll hear why Clay never wants to scale out of his business and what you can expect from his Landman Accelerator course. If land isn’t yet on your radar, Clay Hepler is opening up about why it could be an untapped source of success. In this episode, you will hear: Clay Hepler’s accidental path to real estate His decision to drop out of college and pivot toward a real estate career after a sports injury derailed his plans The value of investing in people and putting in the work Mindset’s role in bearing the stress of building a business Avoiding courses from “gurus” who don’t know how to create a successful business model How repetition can show you what you’re doing wrong Why Clay adjusts his sales script every month based on seller feedback Understanding the intent behind the sale of an asset The financial catastrophe that led Clay to build a land-flipping business after dabbling in apartment buildings Making low offers on land and how it can open a conversation with the seller Direct mail’s role in marketing to potential sellers The items Clay Hepler scrubs for when he’s considering a piece of land Why he compares his land business to a conveyor belt The importance of feedback on direct mail marketing How consistency separates those who are successful from the less successful Calling every three to six months to build your brand with who you’re marketing to Creating connections with your audience and relating to them on a fundamental level Deciding whether you want a reactive or proactive business The reason Clay never wants to scale out of his business Landman Accelerator and what you can expect to get out of the course Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on . Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, we've created a PDF that has all of the key information for you from the episode. Just go to the episode page at https://zenandtheartofrealestateinvesting.com/podcast/154/ to download it. Supporting Resources: Visit the Landman website - Find Clay Hepler on Instagram - Connect with Clay on LinkedIn - Clay on X - The Land Man podcast - Subscribe to Clay’s newsletter newsletter: Website - YouTube - Instagram - Instagram - TikTok - Zillow - Bigger Pockets - Facebook - Email - Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at Let them know we sent you.
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153: Stabilizing and Refinancing Multifamily Real Estate with Zachary Gray
07/08/2024
153: Stabilizing and Refinancing Multifamily Real Estate with Zachary Gray
When COVID-19 hit, Zachary Gray’s career as a personal trainer tanked. That’s when he realized he needed a career that was less vulnerable to those kinds of economic factors. On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan welcomes Zachary Gray to the show. Zachary is a multifamily real estate investor who started his business about three years ago. He quickly scaled his business through partnerships and strategic investing. His focus is on stabilizing and refinancing multifamily buildings. As their conversation begins, Jonathan and Zachary explore his early exposure to real estate, the impetus for starting his business, and how Zachary began educating himself about real estate. You’ll hear why meetups initially scared him, his first and second property purchases, and why Zachary prefers to add bedrooms over living space in nearly every building purchase. He shares why he looks for tenants with multiple adults in the home who have income streams, how building partnerships has been pivotal to scaling, and the need to use lines of credit and leverage strategically. Finally, Jonathan and Zachary uncover the formula Zachary uses for offers, why he advises building a contractor database, and the value of social media in helping build relationships and partnerships with other investors. Despite his short tenure in real estate investing, Zachary Gray quickly discovered a success formula that continues to pay dividends. In this episode, you will hear: Zachary Gray’s early exposure to real estate The elements that were at play when he discovered Bigger Pockets and real estate investing The podcast episodes Zachary focused on as he started educating himself Why meetups scared him when he first began attending His first property purchase and the second property, which turned out to be a gem Zachary’s preference to add bedrooms over living space in nearly every building he buys Looking for tenants with multiple streams of income in the unit instead of just one income Building partnerships once your capital is dwindling to continue investing and realizing that investing is a team sport Strategically implementing lines of credit and leverage Optimizing each property before moving on to the next one The formula Zachary uses for what he’s willing to offer for a property Being prepared to make an offer once you walk a property Building a contractor database and creating relationships before you even get started Using social media to your advantage to build relationships and partnerships with other investors Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on . Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, we've created a PDF that has all of the key information for you from the episode. Just go to the episode page at https://zenandtheartofrealestateinvesting.com/podcast/153/ to download it. Supporting Resources: Connect with Zachary Gray on Instagram - Website - YouTube - Instagram - Instagram - TikTok - Zillow - Bigger Pockets - Facebook - Email - Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at Let them know we sent you.
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152: How to Avoid the Cost of Waiting as a Real Estate Investor with Mike Schumm
07/04/2024
152: How to Avoid the Cost of Waiting as a Real Estate Investor with Mike Schumm
While today’s culture wants instant gratification, patience and the ability to wait can lead to rewarding dividends. On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan sits down with his coach, Mike Schumm. Mike is a real estate investor and coach with over 35 years of experience. He is the co-founder of Profytz Coaching, an on-market coaching company. Mike has been Jonathan’s coach for more than five years. As Jonathan and Mike start their conversation, they discuss real estate uncertainty, how it impacts buyers and sellers, and why waiting to purchase can harm investors. They also explain the competition between homebuyers and investors, how to evaluate deals, and the benefits of being a hyper-local expert. Jonathan and Mike delve into the vision great investors have, a strategy they’ve both used as investors, and how the lack of inventory is impacting the market. They explore the difficulties of taking breaks from your investing career, the one thing all successful investors have in common, and why you must remain emotionally detached from real estate purchases. You’ll also hear why offering sellers time and patience can avoid turning them off, Mike’s advice for when to seek out a mentor or coach, and what makes someone a great coach. Finally, Jonathan and Mike cover the importance of avoiding the “easy button,” being willing to try something new and fail, and the power knowledge can give you in a deal. Patience can be a secret weapon for real estate investors, and Mike Schumm reveals some ways to use it to your advantage. In this episode, you will hear: The uncertainty surrounding real estate right now and how it impacts buyers and sellers Why waiting can be detrimental for an investor The competition between homebuyers and investors Mike Schumm’s advice to continuously evaluate deals The benefits of being a hyper-local expert Falling in love with the idea of identifying and continually evaluating to grab a deal when it pops up Great investors have incredible vision The strategy of living in a home for a while and then flipping it for profit while identifying what buyers are looking for How lack of inventory and investors are impacting the market as a whole, and why Mike doesn’t see inventory levels becoming a buyer’s market anytime soon The difficulties of taking breaks from real estate and staying on top of your market The one thing all successful investors have in common The importance of remaining emotionally detached from houses Why moving quickly can turn off potential sellers Some of Mike’s strategies for offering time to sellers while creating a great deal for himself When to seek out a mentor or coach Staying motivated when your life isn’t running on all cylinders What makes someone a great coach Why hitting the “easy button” doesn’t lead to success Having a willingness to try something new and fail Mike’s ability to use what he learns anywhere and apply it to real estate The power of knowledge in a deal Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on . Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, we've created a PDF that has all of the key information for you from the episode. Just go to the episode page at https://zenandtheartofrealestateinvesting.com/podcast/152/ to download it. Supporting Resources: Profytz Coaching website - Find Mike Schumm on Facebook - Connect with Mike on Instagram - Website - YouTube - Instagram - Instagram - TikTok - Zillow - Bigger Pockets - Facebook - Email - Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at Let them know we sent you.
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151: Prioritizing People and Impacting Communities Through Investing with Loren Jacobs
07/01/2024
151: Prioritizing People and Impacting Communities Through Investing with Loren Jacobs
While creating a profit is the ultimate goal of real estate investing, when you prioritize people, you can make positive ripple effects throughout the community. On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan interviews Loren Jacobs, co-founder of Arrows Capital Group in Nashville, Tennessee. Arrows Capital Group is committed to putting people at the forefront of investments and has a strategy designed to impact the communities it engages with. During Jonathan and Loren’s conversation, you’ll hear why there’s a stigma attached to real estate and the social impact it can have, why Loren prioritizes “paying it forward” before profit, and his early exposure to real estate through his family members who worked in the business. Loren explains how culture influences who a community attracts, how they switched from multifamily assets to assisted living facilities, and why people move out. Jonathan and Loren also cover the demographics and financials of investing in assisted living, overcoming the inefficiencies in a facility’s processes and systematizing operations, and what makes cash flow stronger in an assisted living facility versus traditional multifamily. You’ll also hear why the type of building used for assisted living doesn’t bode well for many other business plans, how to perform a supply-and-demand analysis on each property purchase, and where Loren purchases these properties. Finally, Loren shares why he keeps property management in-house for now, why you shouldn’t expect your first few deals to be monetary gains but educational, and how you can present yourself to successful investors to find a mentor. Real estate isn’t always about monetary gains, especially when you’re helping vulnerable populations. By prioritizing the community, Loren Jacobs discovered that profit often follows. In this episode, you will hear: The stigma attached to real estate and the social impact it can have Why Loren Jacobs prioritizes “paying it forward” before profit His exposure to real estate through his family working in the business and why he resisted becoming an agent The most exciting part of real estate for Loren and his wife How culture plays into who a community attracts The catalyst behind switching from multifamily assets to assisted living facilities Providing peace of mind to the loved ones of seniors who need assisted living The three reasons people move out of assisted living centers Some key things to look for in demographics and financials if you’re considering investing in assisted living Overcoming inefficiencies in an assisted living’s processes and systematizing operations What makes cash flow stronger in an assisted living facility versus a traditional multifamily The value of the building outside of its intended purpose and why it doesn’t bode well for many other business plans Performing a supply-and-demand analysis on each property Loren purchases Where Loren is purchasing assisted living facilities Why he keeps property management in-house for now The founding of Arrows Capital Group Viewing your first few deals as a “learning season” and getting ROI on that education Some steps you can take to find a mentor from someone successful in the space you want to be in Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on . Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, we've created a PDF that has all of the key information for you from the episode. Just go to the episode page at https://zenandtheartofrealestateinvesting.com/podcast/151/ to download it. Supporting Resources: Arrows Capital Group - Loren Jacobs on Instagram - Connect with Loren on LinkedIn - Find Loren on Twitter/X - Website - YouTube - Instagram - Instagram - TikTok - Zillow - Bigger Pockets - Facebook - Email - Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at Let them know we sent you.
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150: From Rebel to Real Estate Entrepreneur with Megan Ahern
06/27/2024
150: From Rebel to Real Estate Entrepreneur with Megan Ahern
Sometimes, the W-2 job isn’t an option, and you have to look for alternatives. When Megan Ahern’s husband was ready to exit the Marines, they knew they needed to look at alternate career paths. On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan interviews Megan Ahern, a rebel turned real estate investor who’s been steadily investing in Lincoln, Nebraska, since 2018 with her husband. When Jeff, Megan’s husband, was medically released from the Marines, they went all in on real estate investing. Together, they’ve had more than 80 units in and around Lincoln. Megan also owns a staging company, and they have experience investing in sober living homes. Jonathan and Megan open their conversation by exploring why Megan and her husband chose Lincoln, Nebraska, to invest and how she got her husband on the same page with investing. You’ll hear how they initially found properties, why using hard money eventually limited the size of the flips she could do, and how building relationships with local lenders helped expand the business. She shares the role of reputation and authenticity in her success, how they decide whether or not to keep a property, and what she loves about sober living properties. Megan explains why she’s looking for more mid-term rentals, her seven-plex nightmare property, and what drew her into the staging business. Finally, Jonathan and Megan cover why staging matters in flipping homes, her advice for new flippers, and how becoming a licensed agent helped their business. Megan is a seasoned flipper whose advice you won’t want to miss if flipping is on your radar. In this episode, you will hear: Megan Ahern’s start in real estate with her husband when he left the military Why they chose Lincoln, Nebraska, to invest The appeal of being a little fish in a little pond in a market like Lincoln Being on the same page with your spouse in real estate and why you have to have the same end goals in mind How they initially located properties and the size of the renovations they took on Megan’s use of hard money to flip homes and why it limited the size of the flips she could do Building relationships with local lenders to grow the real estate business The decisions small, local banks can make versus national banks The importance of reputation and authenticity in finding more deals How Megan and her husband decide whether or not to keep a property Her involvement with sober living and why she loves it Why she’s looking for more mid-term rental properties A bad multifamily purchase and why it’s deterring her from purchasing more Who Megan’s mid-term renters are and what they’re looking for in a property The importance of staging and how the business has changed since Megan began staging Where Megan puts her focus in her staging business, how she avoids warehousing a lot of items, and why it’s a vital part of flipping homes Megan’s advice for new investors who want to flip homes How being a licensed agent has impacted Megan’s success in real estate Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on . Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, we've created a PDF that has all of the key information for you from the episode. Just go to the episode page at to download it. Supporting Resources: Visit Megan Ahern’s website - Connect with The Tatty Investor on Facebook - The Tatty Investor on Instagram - Website - YouTube - Instagram - Instagram - TikTok - Zillow - Bigger Pockets - Facebook - Email - Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at Let them know we sent you.
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149: Building a Cornerstone of Trust with Real Estate with Nic DeAngelo
06/24/2024
149: Building a Cornerstone of Trust with Real Estate with Nic DeAngelo
Creating trust with clients is essential to operating syndications and commercial investment properties. Building that trust is a cornerstone of long-term investing relationships. On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan welcomes Nic DeAngelo, president of Saint Investment Group. Saint Investment Group looks into large-scale distressed asset purchases and innovative syndications. Nic has more than two decades of experience in real estate and is an expert in investing and capital raising, specializing in real estate and debt markets. Jonathan and Nic explore Nic’s early exposure to real estate through books and a lifelong love of learning. You’ll hear Nic’s experiences with construction and banking, as well as how his family influenced where he decided to put his money. Nic explains what drew him to commercial real estate, why no particular personality type archives success in this industry, and the various jobs he tried before landing on his niche. Nic shares his perspective on residential versus commercial real estate, why scale determines your buy box, and offering clients transparency so that what you’re offering them is easy to understand. He reveals the two ways he decides whether to move forward with a deal, the influence baby boomers have on the market, and the impact of inflation, risk tolerance, and politics on investor timelines. Finally, Jonathan and Nic dig into not being afraid to invest with your “competition” in other asset classes, the value of providing education to your clients, and Nic’s advice for new investors. In this episode, you will hear: Nic DeAngelo’s exposure to real estate through books and lifelong learning, particularly Gary Keller’s book, “The Millionaire Real Estate Investor” His experiences in construction and banking and merging them to become an investor How Nic’s early experiences within his own family influenced where he put his money What drew him to commercial real estate The variation of personality types who achieve success in real estate in different niches Various jobs Nic tried before finding his niche Nic’s perspective on residential real estate versus commercial in the United States Why the scale of the operation determines the buy box The importance of transparency at such a level that clients can glance at a single page and grasp it Two ways Nic determines what deal to move toward and how the baby boomers are influencing the market How inflation, risk tolerance, and politics are impacting investors’ timelines Investing with your “competition” when they’re more versed in an asset class than you The two asset classes Nic specializes in Why education makes clients more likely to invest Nic DeAngelo’s advice for new investors Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on . Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, we've created a PDF that has all of the key information for you from the episode. Just go to the episode page at to download it. Supporting Resources: Visit the Saint Investment Group website - Nic DeAngelo’s YouTube channel - Find Nic on Facebook - Nic’s Instagram - Connect with Nic on LinkedIn - Nic on Twitter/X - Nic DeAngelo on TikTok - Website - YouTube - Instagram - Instagram - TikTok - Zillow - Bigger Pockets - Facebook - Email - Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at Let them know we sent you.
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148: The Holistic Approach to Real Estate Investor Coaching with Alyssa Holbrook
06/20/2024
148: The Holistic Approach to Real Estate Investor Coaching with Alyssa Holbrook
Mindset could be your key to unlocking success in real estate investing. On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan welcomes back Alyssa Holbrook, a master coach specializing in real estate investing, for a conversation on the power of mindset and strategic thinking. Alyssa shares her evolution from coaching small investors to high-net-worth individuals, highlighting the impact of personal growth. She stresses tailored coaching to navigate unique challenges and scale up investments, offering a perspective on how believing in bigger possibilities can open up greater opportunities. Jonathan and Alyssa explore the downsides of overanalyzing properties, making lowball offers, and discuss the balance between high returns and risk management. Alyssa points out the importance of confidence and proactivity in making sound investment decisions. You’ll also hear how different personality traits influence investment strategies and why you must understand your strengths and weaknesses. Trust and mentorship are critical elements for success, and Alyssa shares some tips for finding the right mentor and building meaningful, mutually beneficial relationships. Finally, Alyssa reveals some personal experiences and advice on combining detailed data analysis with firsthand property inspections. Learn how to navigate current market conditions, overcome emotions, and make informed choices. Whether you're new to real estate or an experienced investor, Alyssa offers tips for maintaining confidence, consistency, and dedication for long-term success. In this episode, you will hear: The importance of personal transformation and strategic thinking for scaling investments Balancing returns and managing risks in real estate investment Overcoming the drawbacks of over-analyzing and lowball offers How different personality traits affect investment strategies Alyssa Holbrook’s advice for finding and building meaningful relationships with mentors Decisiveness and the adaptability to weather fluctuating markets Strategically using home equity lines of credit in high-interest environments Combining thorough research with firsthand property inspections Alyssa’s strategies for scaling portfolios and the importance of consistency Her advice on building partnerships and leveraging competitive advantages Effective mentor-mentee relationships and structured coaching benefits Avoiding emotional involvement and remaining focused on sound investment decisions Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on . Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, we've created a PDF that has all of the key information for you from the episode. Just go to the episode page at to download it. Supporting Resources: Alyssa Holbrook’s Instagram account - Connect with Alyssa on LinkedIn - Schedule a free consultation with Alyssa - Website - YouTube - Instagram - Instagram - TikTok - Zillow - Bigger Pockets - Facebook - Email - Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at Let them know we sent you.
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147: Giving Back and Investing with Sober Living Homes with Devana Came
06/17/2024
147: Giving Back and Investing with Sober Living Homes with Devana Came
What if you could turn real estate into a vehicle for positive social change? On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan interviews Devana Came, a real estate investor passionate about creating high-quality sober living homes. From transparency with landlords to the fine line between profit and care, Devana offers her insights for those who want to make a meaningful impact through real estate. Devana reveals how the design and furnishing of a home can affect someone's recovery journey. She explains that a hands-on, compassionate approach can make all the difference, turning sober living homes into sanctuaries rather than just profit-generating assets. Her approach contrasts with the detached, financial mindset that can lead to less supportive living conditions. Jonathan and Devana also explore the ethical considerations and regulatory standards key to maintaining high-quality sober living spaces, ensuring these homes uplift and support their residents. Jonathan and Devana delve into the challenges of managing a sober living home. She shares some practical methods for nurturing a supportive community, including dealing with NIMBY (Not In My Backyard) neighbors and staff dynamics. Devana also underscores the potential of new build projects and co-living arrangements to enhance the sense of community and support within these homes. Devana's experiences and advice offer valuable guidance for creating sober living homes that make a difference. In this episode, you will hear: The main differences between owning and leasing sober living homes Creating transparency with landlords and the importance of community engagement The impact of thoughtful design and furnishing on recovery environments Some ethical considerations in sober living real estate investments Managing staff, conflict resolution, and reducing neighborhood opposition The financial and emotional rewards of investing in sober living homes The benefits of high-quality environments for resident morale and recovery outcomes Regulatory standards and distinctions between sober living homes and halfway houses Some of Devana’s strategies for successful operation, including the use of ADUs and co-living arrangements Devana's future plans and her mission to set quality standards in sober living homes Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on . Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, we've created a PDF that has all of the key information for you from the episode. Just go to the episode page at https://zenandtheartofrealestateinvesting.com/podcast/147/ to download it. Supporting Resources: Connect with Devana Came on Instagram - Website - YouTube - Instagram - Instagram - TikTok - Zillow - Bigger Pockets - Facebook - Email - Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at Let them know we sent you.
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