Straight Up Chicago Investor
Are you a real estate investor in Chicago or someone looking to invest in the Chicagoland Market? If so, this podcast is for you! We break down the neighborhoods, different sides of the city, and surrounding suburbs so you can understand the uniqueness of investing in Chicago real estate. The hosts and guests are Chicago investors and Property Managers who are making it happen in and around the Windy City. We share information, winning strategies, obstacles, success stories, and most importantly, lessons learned. If you are looking for ground level information and want to learn what has worked and not worked in Chicago, you are in the right place.
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Episode 291: What Every Investor Needs To Know About the Rehab Draw Process
04/23/2024
Episode 291: What Every Investor Needs To Know About the Rehab Draw Process
How does the draw process work when taking on a construction loan? Connect with Mark and Tom: Email the Show: Guest: Eric Workman, Link: ----------------- Production House: Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2024.
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Episode 290: Want To Make It 20+ years in Chicago REI? Learn How With Neena Vlamis
04/18/2024
Episode 290: Want To Make It 20+ years in Chicago REI? Learn How With Neena Vlamis
Neena Vlamis is the President and Owner of A and N Mortgage. Born and raised in Chicago, she discusses building her mortgage company along with developing an impressive real estate investment portfolio in Chicago. Neena starts by explaining how she scaled her mortgage company, building a culture, and behind the scenes challenges. She provides insights on how lending regulations vary across states and talks about what makes A and N unique. Neena gives her take on adapting to a higher interest rate market and the recent NAR settlement. She closes with a bullish outlook on the Chicago Real Estate market! If you enjoy today’s episode, please leave us a review and share with someone who may also find value in this content! Connect with Mark and Tom: Email the Show: Guest: Neena Vlamis, Link: ----------------- Guest Questions 01:10 Housing Provider Tip - Keep up with landscaping to avoid fines from the city! 03:01 Intro to our guest, Neena Vlamis! 07:01 Neena’s early lending and investing days! 13:47 Scaling the mortgage lending business. 16:18 Maintaining culture in a business. 20:19 Behind the scenes lending challenges. 24:16 Neena’s other investments! 32:24 Differences in lending across states. 35:08 What makes A and N Mortgage unique? 38:29 Adapting to higher interest rates. 41:44 Neena’s outlook on Chicago and the Real Estate Industry! 45:50 What is your competitive advantage? 46:04 One piece of advice for new investors. 46:13 What do you do for fun? 46:36 Good book, podcast, or self development activity that you would recommend? 47:03 Local Network Recommendation? 48:13 How can the listeners learn more about you and provide value to you? ----------------- Production House: Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2024.
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Episode 289: VA Loans, ADUs, and Turning a Funeral Home Into an Airbnb with Andrew Dorazio
04/11/2024
Episode 289: VA Loans, ADUs, and Turning a Funeral Home Into an Airbnb with Andrew Dorazio
Andrew Dorazion is a former Army officer and accomplished real estate broker, investor, and property manager! Andrew jumps right in with a cool story involving a funeral home turned short term rental! He shares tips on finding partners and structuring partnerships to help scale more quickly. Andrew drops valuable nuggets on pumping a building’s NOI through reconfigured floor plans and adding ADUs. He does a deep dive on the Zoning Change Process in Chicago! Throughout the show, Andrew emphasizes the importance of taking action to propel your growth in real estate and any other endeavor! If you enjoy today’s episode, please leave us a review and share with someone who may also find value in this content! Connect with Mark and Tom: Email the Show: Guest: Andrew Dorazio, Link: Link: Link: Link: Link: Link: ----------------- Guest Questions 02:00 Housing Provider Tip - Maintain AC units as the weather gets warmer! 03:15 Intro to our guest, Andrew Dorazio! 03:45 Andrew’s “killer” deal! 07:28 Andrew’s start in real estate. 12:11 How to find partners to scale faster? 17:00 Early mistakes on Short Term Rentals. 24:04 Ways to reposition an asset. 35:05 The Process of a Zoning Change! 44:56 Building Department for requirements for ADUs! 50:25 What’s next for Andrew and his team? 53:14 What is your competitive advantage? 54:03 One piece of advice for new investors. 55:34 What do you do for fun? 56:17 Good book, podcast, or self development activity that you would recommend? 57:48 Local Network Recommendation? 58:38 How can the listeners learn more about you and provide value to you? ----------------- Production House: Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2024.
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Episode 288: This Is Where Interest Rates Are Going Next...
04/09/2024
Episode 288: This Is Where Interest Rates Are Going Next...
Where Are Interest Rates Heading and What's Happening in The Capital Markets? Connect with Mark and Tom: Email the Show: Guest: Eric Workman, Link: ----------------- Production House: Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2024.
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Episode 287: Why Your Customer Experience is Falling Short with Joey Coleman
04/04/2024
Episode 287: Why Your Customer Experience is Falling Short with Joey Coleman
Joey Coleman is a best selling author and founder of a branding firm that specializes in helping businesses retain customers and employees! Joey jumps right in by explaining the difference between customer service and customer experience. He explains the best ways to handle routine tenant check ins and disagreements with tenants all through the lens of optimizing customer experience. Joey shares how the Eight Phases to “Never Lose a Customer Again” apply to prospective tenants. Joey closes with an amazing story of how a human-level connection and a small gift resulted in a tremendous business opportunity! If you enjoy today’s episode, please leave us a review and share with someone who may also find value in this content! Connect with Mark and Tom: Email the Show: Guest: , Design Symphony Link: Link: Link: Link: ----------------- Guest Questions 03:23 Housing Provider Tip - Run your investment properties like a business and treat your residents like clients. 03:51 Intro to our guest, Joey Coleman! 07:04 Customer service vs customer experience! 14:00 To check in with the tenant or not? 16:29 Reassuring tenants after move-in. 23:47 Phases to Never Lose a Customer Again! 41:10 How to handle disagreements with tenants? 50:58 Gifts and the $35,000 golf ball! 56:56 Advice to 20 year old Joey Coleman. 59:16 What is your competitive advantage? 59:42 One piece of advice for new investors. 60:16 What do you do for fun? 60:57 Good book, podcast, or self development activity that you would recommend? 62:44 Local Network Recommendation? 64:00 How can the listeners learn more about you and provide value to you? ----------------- Production House: Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2024.
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Episode 286: The Chicago Investor’s Guide to Public Relations with Sabrina Wottreng
03/28/2024
Episode 286: The Chicago Investor’s Guide to Public Relations with Sabrina Wottreng
Sabrina Wottreng is a Chicago-based Publicist and a “Friend of the Pod.” Sabrina’s company specializes in the real estate sector and has helped many Chicago-area real estate teams with their public relations (PR) and communications strategies. Sabrina explains how she got started in PR and her introduction into commercial real estate. She dives into the value-add that her company brings to real estate investors and gives tips on building an online presence and reputation. Sabrina emphasizes the importance of LinkedIn, building your network, and even updated headshots if you’re an investor looking to scale. This show is full of amazing tips you likely have not considered and can easily leverage to scale your real estate business. If you enjoy today’s episode, please leave us a review and share with someone who may also find value in this content! Connect with Mark and Tom: Email the Show: Guest: of Sabrina Wottreng Public Relations Link: Link: Link: Link: Link: Link: ----------------- Guest Questions 03:23 Housing Provider Tip - Consult with your attorney before negotiating with problem tenants. 05:07 Intro to our guest, Sabrina Wottreng! 08:18 Sabrina’s start in real estate! 11:48 Sabrina’s PR services! 20:08 Importance of reviews and reputation. 24:58 When should investors start caring about their online presence? 29:12 Marketing for Investors 101! 36:17 Building your network as a new investor! 40:49 Importance of headshots! 45:36 Sabrina’s value proposition to investors! 51:18 What’s next for Sabrina? 52:30 What is your competitive advantage? 52:50 One piece of advice for new investors. 53:18 What do you do for fun? 53:40 Good book, podcast, or self development activity that you would recommend? 54:22 Local Network Recommendation? 55:04 How can the listeners learn more about you and provide value to you? ----------------- Production House: Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2024.
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Episode 285: Diving into DSCR with Eric Workman of Renovo Financial
03/26/2024
Episode 285: Diving into DSCR with Eric Workman of Renovo Financial
How is DSCR calculated, and how does it affect investors' ability to borrow? Connect with Mark and Tom: Email the Show: Guest: Eric Workman, Link: ----------------- Production House: Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2024.
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Episode 284: Triumphs and Troubles From a Decade of Experience on Chicago’s Southeast Side with Jared Kott
03/21/2024
Episode 284: Triumphs and Troubles From a Decade of Experience on Chicago’s Southeast Side with Jared Kott
Jared Kott returns to share the ups and downs of his real estate journey that started just over 10 years ago when he left the corporate world! Jared gets right into it by talking about the challenges of operating in C/D class neighborhoods! He shares the cold hard truth of dealing with a slip-and-fall incident at one of his properties where he was found guilty in court. Jared provides insights on the trajectory of the Southeast side and on putting emotion aside to deal with non-paying tenants. Jared closes by talking about his adventures in Michigan involving awesome short-term rentals and boat rentals! If you enjoy today’s episode, please leave us a review and share with someone who may also find value in this content! Connect with Mark and Tom: Email the Show: Guest: Jared Kott, Link: Link: Link: ----------------- Guest Questions 02:00 Housing Provider Tip - Shop around for home insurance to get the best value. 04:02 Intro to our guest, Jared Kott. 07:03 Reflecting on a decade of experience! 14:22 Jared’s recent slip-and-fall incident. 26:23 Trajectory of Chicago’s Southeast Side! 42:34 Dealing with non-paying tenants. 48:50 Jared’s Michigan adventures! 56:25 What is your competitive advantage? 56:55 One piece of advice for new investors. 57:22 What do you do for fun? 57:40 Good book, podcast, or self development activity that you would recommend? 58:17 Local Network Recommendation? 58:42 How can the listeners learn more about you and provide value to you? ----------------- Production House: Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2024.
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Episode 283: Container Homes: Innovative and Affordable Housing with Rory Rubin
03/14/2024
Episode 283: Container Homes: Innovative and Affordable Housing with Rory Rubin
Rory Rubin, founder of S.I. Container Builds, joins us to explain how her company’s Container Homes is a high-quality solution to current housing affordability and inventory issues! Rory starts by explaining her background in social work and the process of starting up S.I. Container Builds! She breaks down specs and pricing of container homes illustrating the quality and affordability when compared to traditional home construction. Rory gives the 101 on the building process and overlooked considerations for modular home construction! Throughout the show, Rory hammers home the importance of doing good by others and delivering quality products that you can stand behind! If you enjoy today’s episode, please leave us a review and share with someone who may also find value in this content! Connect with Mark and Tom: Email the Show: Guest: Rory Rubin, | Link: Link: Link: ----------------- Guest Questions 02:16 Housing Provider Tip - Get quotes early for best pricing on your spring projects! 04:18 Intro to our guest, Rory Rubin! 08:20 Getting funding for a startup. 15:26 SI Container Builds’ clientele! 19:43 Common specs on container homes. 22:24 Container home pricing. 26:05 Considerations for building container homes in Chicago! 32:08 The building process. 39:25 The future of the container home industry. 43:08 What is your competitive advantage? 43:38 One piece of advice for new investors. 44:22 What do you do for fun? 44:48 Good book, podcast, or self development activity that you would recommend? 45:44 Local Network Recommendation? 46:28 How can the listeners learn more about you and provide value to you? ----------------- Production House: Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2024.
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Episode 282: Decoding the Final Walkthrough: A Comprehensive Guide for Buyers and Sellers
03/12/2024
Episode 282: Decoding the Final Walkthrough: A Comprehensive Guide for Buyers and Sellers
What should I expect on the final walk through from both the buyer and seller side? Connect with Mark and Tom: Email the Show: Guest: Chance Badertscher, Link: ----------------- Production House: Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2024.
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Episode 281: One of the First Investors to Leverage The New 5% Down Lending Product on a Successful Househack With Brendon Heneks and Sarita Scherpereel
03/07/2024
Episode 281: One of the First Investors to Leverage The New 5% Down Lending Product on a Successful Househack With Brendon Heneks and Sarita Scherpereel
Brendon starts by sharing his buy box and how he was ready to pounce when he found the right property. Brendon and Sarita share great insights on how to jump at opportunities when the competition is fearful. Brendon explains worrisome moments and lessons learned during the purchase of his househack both before and after closing. Brendon breaks down the new 5% down lending product that everyone is talking about but few investors have actually utilized. This show is full of great tips for aspiring househackers and seasoned investors alike! If you enjoy today’s episode, please leave us a review and share with someone who may also find value in this content! Connect with Mark and Tom: Email the Show: Guests: & Sarita Scherpereel, Fairway Independent Mortgage Link: Link: Link: Link: ----------------- Guest Questions 03:20 Housing Provider Tip - Consider upgrading landscaping during the spring season. 04:36 Intro to our guests, Brendon Heneks and Sarita Scherpereel! 09:12 Brendon’s househack search! 11:08 What to know about gift funds. 14:15 Brendon’s buy box! 19:50 Opportunities in higher market time properties. 25:50 Mindset of buying in a higher interest market. 31:04 Worrisome moments while under contract! 39:36 Brendon’s lessons learned after his first multi-unit purchase. 40:44 Outlook on Chicago. 45:11 What is your competitive advantage? 46:16 One piece of advice for new investors. 46:54 What do you do for fun? 47:13 Good book, podcast, or self development activity that you would recommend? 48:10 Local Network Recommendation? 49:10 How can the listeners learn more about you and provide value to you? ----------------- Production House: Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2024.
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Episode 280: Investing in Premier Chicago Neighborhoods as a Busy Professional with David Shifrin and Rob Sikkel
02/29/2024
Episode 280: Investing in Premier Chicago Neighborhoods as a Busy Professional with David Shifrin and Rob Sikkel
David Shifrin, the doctor of Motor Row, returns with his real estate agent Rob Sikkel to discuss how he’s grown his portfolio with quality multifamily properties over the last 2 years! David starts by explaining his investing strategy and how he’s acquired 5 multifamily buildings since his last appearance on SUCI! David and Rob dive into the details of how they built their buyer-agent relationship to propel their growth. The duo breaks down a homerun deal in Bucktown involving splitting a double lot and selling half of it! Golden nuggets are dropped on the West Town neighborhood and best “bang for your buck” renovation items. If you enjoy today’s episode, please leave us a review and share with someone who may also find value in this content! Connect with Mark and Tom: Email the Show: Guest: David Shifrin & Rob Sikkel, Link: Link: Link: ----------------- Guest Questions 03:49 Housing Provider Tip - Ensure you’re prepared for freezing and thawing cycles during the spring season. 05:17 Intro to our guests, David Shifrin and Rob Sikkel. 08:04 David’s investing strategy! 09:45 Building a great buyer-agent relationship! 17:02 Double lot, homerun deal! 28:51 The property search process. 31:47 Breaking down West Town! 34:45 Insights on renovation! 37:30 Dealing with higher interest rates and tapping into equity. 40:44 Outlook on Chicago. 42:04 What is your competitive advantage? 42:58 One piece of advice for new investors. 44:34 What do you do for fun? 46:09 Good book, podcast, or self development activity that you would recommend? 47:02 Local Network Recommendation? 48:35 How can the listeners learn more about you and provide value to you? ----------------- Production House: Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2024.
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Episode 279: Best Practices For Tenant Move-Outs
02/27/2024
Episode 279: Best Practices For Tenant Move-Outs
What expectations should I establish for my tenants' move outs? Connect with Mark and Tom: Email the Show: Guest: Karen Welch, Link: ----------------- Production House: Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2024.
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Episode 278: BiggerPockets Host David Greene Gets Real On Overcoming Recent REI Adversity
02/22/2024
Episode 278: BiggerPockets Host David Greene Gets Real On Overcoming Recent REI Adversity
BiggerPockets Host, Author, and Real Estate Expert, David Greene returns to Straight Up Chicago Investor and holds nothing back as he explains how he dealt with fraud in his real estate portfolio. David explains why real estate is not an end-all solution to your financse and discusses the importances of reserves and playing defense, as outlined in his recent book Pillars of Wealth. He shares how he had 50 properties stolen from his portfolio and how that was part of a series of events that decimated his finances! David is extremely open and honest in explaining how he dealt with these troubling times and how he found support. This episode is a clear example of why it’s important to have your business protected from all angles and understand that tumultuous times can happen to any of us! If you enjoy today’s episode, please leave us a review and share with someone who may also find value in this content! Connect with Mark and Tom: Email the Show: Guest: , The David Greene Team & The One Brokerage Link: Link: Link: Past Bigger Pockets Guest Episodes: | | Link: Link: ----------------- Guest Questions 02:10 Housing Provider Tip - Regularly check your entities on the Secretary of State website. 03:37 Intro to our guest, David Greene! 11:11 Understanding “Defense” in Business! 14:09 David’s Fraud Story. 28:21 Bouncing back during tough times. 36:18 Finding the right support group. 41:16 Succeeding in a high interest rate market! 49:37 The Future of BiggerPockets! 53:00 10 year horizon for David Greene! 55:36 What is David’s competitive advantage? 56:22 One piece of advice for new investors. 57:12 What do you do for fun? 58:19 Good book, podcast, or self development activity that you would recommend? 60:56 Local Network Recommendation? ----------------- Production House: Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2024.
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Episode 277: The Chicago Investor Playbook Against Pests with Janelle Iaccino
02/15/2024
Episode 277: The Chicago Investor Playbook Against Pests with Janelle Iaccino
Janelle Iaccinio is Rose Pest Solutions’ Marketing Director and Chicago’s “Bug Girl”! Janelle starts with the history of Rose Pest Solutions which dates back to the Abraham Lincoln era! She dives deep on rats, roaches, and bedbugs including common causes and practices to control them. Janelle mixes in a couple pest horror stories and debunks pest myths! Throughout the show, Janelle emphasizes the importance of taking pests seriously to prevent larger scale problems in your properties! If you enjoy today’s episode, please leave us a review and share with someone who may also find value in this content! Connect with Mark and Tom: Email the Show: Guest: Janelle Iaccino, Link: Link: ----------------- Guest Questions 02:16 Housing Provider Tip - Ensure your properties are tightly sealed to prevent pest issues. 03:12 Intro to our guest, Janelle. 06:30 The History of Rose Pest Solutions! 11:36 The Infamous Chicago Rat Imprint! 15:08 The 101 on Rats. 27:36 Ins and Outs on Roaches. 36:27 Dealing with Bedbugs. 48:45 Pest Myths Debunked! 54:31 What is Janelle’s competitive advantage? 54:58 One piece of advice for new investors. 55:41 What do you do for fun? 56:43 Good book, podcast, or self development activity that you would recommend? 57:14 Local Network Recommendation? 58:03 How can the listeners learn more about you and provide value to you? ----------------- Production House: Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2024.
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Episode 276: The Best Ways to Protect Your Largest Asset
02/13/2024
Episode 276: The Best Ways to Protect Your Largest Asset
What can potentially happen if I don't secure my investment property? Connect with Mark and Tom: Email the Show: Guest: Nick Oberhouse, ----------------- Production House: Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2024.
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Episode 275: Keys to Off-Market Real Estate Acquisitions at Scale with Chicago’s Mike Kehoe
02/08/2024
Episode 275: Keys to Off-Market Real Estate Acquisitions at Scale with Chicago’s Mike Kehoe
Mike Kehoe is an experienced investor and entrepreneur who has created and sold multiple technology companies! He joins us to explain how his latest company is thriving in off-market real estate acquisitions and dispositions. Mike explains how he chose a real estate market to focus on and the grind of driving for dollars to find opportunities! He shares great tips on how to engage potential sellers of off-market real estate including the strategies his team has had the most success with. He discusses the importance of core values and building a quality team that aligns with those values. Mike closes with motivating words on cultivating a growth mindset to become the best version of yourself! If you enjoy today’s episode, please leave us a review and share with someone who may also find value in this content! Connect with Mark and Tom: Email the Show: Guest: Mike Kehoe, | Email Mike () Link: Link: Link: Link: Link: ----------------- Guest Questions 02:51 Housing Provider Tip - Ensure you’re up to date on the new Security Deposit laws. 04:00 Intro to our guest, Mike Kehoe! 08:28 Picking a market to invest in. 11:42 Driving for Dollars! 13:23 Engaging Sellers! 19:31 Growing a quality team. 27:24 Common mistakes when scaling and establishing core values. 32:20 Bottlenecks in Mike’s business. 39:35 Mike’s focus on personal growth! 43:25 What is Mike’s competitive advantage? 43:44 One piece of advice for new investors. 43:54 What do you do for fun? 44:04 Good book, podcast, or self development activity that you would recommend? 44:37 Local Network Recommendation? 45:04 How can the listeners learn more about you and provide value to you? ----------------- Production House: Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2024.
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Episode 274: Leveraging AI to Optimize Real Estate Underwriting with Chicago’s Marc Rutzen
02/01/2024
Episode 274: Leveraging AI to Optimize Real Estate Underwriting with Chicago’s Marc Rutzen
Marc Rutzen is an experienced investor with over 12 years of real estate and technology experience. He joins the guys to explain the power of knowing your rental comps and how HelloData can help accelerate that knowledge. Marc discusses his start in market analysis along with the creation of his analytics startup which he sold in 2019. He breaks down the creation and value proposition of HelloData. He explains how HelloData is able to efficiently gather and scrub data to quantify the value of real estate. To close the show, Marc provides us his outlook on technology in general and the Chicago real estate market! If you enjoy today’s episode, please leave us a review and share with someone who may also find value in this content! Connect with Mark and Tom: Email the Show: Guest: Marc Rutzen, Link: Link: Link: ----------------- Guest Questions 02:36 Housing Provider Tip - Ensure you’re up to date on the new Security Deposit laws. 04:21 Intro to our guest, Marc Rutzen. 07:53 Marc’s start in market analysis. 17:10 Horror stories of starting and selling a business! 19:37 The creation of HelloData! 23:49 HelloData’s targeted end clients. 29:18 HelloData’s value proposition to investors. 39:33 Marc’s outlook on technology! 45:05 Marc’s outlook on the Chicago Real Estate Market! 46:32 What is Marc’s competitive advantage? 47:07 One piece of advice for new investors. 47:47 What do you do for fun? 48:17 Good book, podcast, or self development activity that you would recommend? 49:22 Local Network Recommendation? 50:05 How can the listeners learn more about you and provide value to you? ----------------- Production House: Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2024.
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Episode 273: How To Leverage an Escalation Clause to Win Deals
01/30/2024
Episode 273: How To Leverage an Escalation Clause to Win Deals
What is an escalation clause and how can investors utilize it? Connect with Mark and Tom: Email the Show: Guest: Sarita Scherpereel, ----------------- Production House: Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2024.
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Episode 272: Procuring Over 700 Off-Market Properties with Ben Allgeyer
01/25/2024
Episode 272: Procuring Over 700 Off-Market Properties with Ben Allgeyer
Ben Allgeyer has flipped over 200 properties and wholesaled over 500 properties! Ben talks about his brief stint in corporate America before leaving to pursue a career in Real Estate. He discusses the early days of making cold calls and door knocking for lead generation. Ben dives into building a team and vetting candidates for potential partnerships. He touches on his team’s disposition strategy and the importance of protecting relationships with partners. Throughout the show, Ben emphasizes how critical it is to put in the work and master your craft to obtain success in real estate and in any other business! If you enjoy today’s episode, please leave us a review and share with someone who may also find value in this content! Connect with Mark and Tom: Email the Show: Guest: Ben Allgeyer, Elite Ventures | Link: Link: ----------------- Guest Questions 03:23 Housing Provider Tip - Ensure you are using the new Chicago lease! 03:49 Intro to our guest, Ben Allgeyer! 12:43 Ben’s jump into real estate! 17:20 How to find leads. 22:15 Ben’s deals gone wrong! 25:18 Hiring to build a team. 30:17 Top lists for landing leads! 32:41 Ben’s disposition strategy. 36:11 Vetting potential partnerships! 39:17 Capital partners to grow a business. 43:00 How to find businesses to purchase. 46:02 Ben’s lead generation course! 47:58 What is Ben’s competitive advantage? 48:32 One piece of advice for new investors. 49:03 What do you do for fun? 49:21 Good book, podcast, or self development activity that you would recommend? 50:06 Local Network Recommendation? 50:38 How can the listeners learn more about you and provide value to you? ----------------- Production House: Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2024.
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Episode 271: Exploring Some of Chicago’s Premier Neighborhoods with Vik Wadhwa
01/18/2024
Episode 271: Exploring Some of Chicago’s Premier Neighborhoods with Vik Wadhwa
Vik Wadhwa is a top producing real estate broker with a focus on architecture and modern design in Chicago’s Premier Neighborhoods! Vik shares his start in real estate back in 2006 and how he’s been able to grow his business to become a top producing broker. Vik gets granular on Lincoln Park; defining the boundaries, desirable blocks, and investment opportunities in the neighborhood. He provides insight on West Town including the differences between the different pockets of sub-neighborhoods. The West Loop and reassessed property tax bills are also discussed. In this episode, Vik demonstrates his deep knowledge of the neighborhoods he works and emphasizes the importance of knowing your craft to be successful! If you enjoy today’s episode, please leave us a review and share with someone who may also find value in this content! Connect with Mark and Tom: Email the Show: Guest: Vik Wadhwa, Link: Link: Link: ----------------- Guest Questions 02:36 Housing Provider Tip - Ensure that communication with tenants is kept professional! 04:10 Intro to our guest, Vik Wadhwa! 07:44 Changing to Real Estate as a Career Path! 11:44 The 101 of Lincoln Park! 19:37 Getting listings in Lincoln Park and other higher price point areas. 21:26 Breaking down West Town! 24:47 Pricing across West Town. 28:00 The Rise of the West Loop! 30:33 Opportunities west of the United Center. 35:55 Forecasting Reassessed Property Values and Tax Bill. 38:05 The Real Estate Brokerage Industry and Potential Changes! 40:58 Vik’s outlook on Chicago! 43:14 What is Vik’s competitive advantage? 43:44 One piece of advice for new investors. 44:10 What do you do for fun? 44:31 Good book, podcast, or self development activity that you would recommend? 44:55 Local Network Recommendation? 45:26 How can the listeners learn more about you and provide value to you? ----------------- Production House: Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2024.
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Episode 270: It's 2024 And Your Chicago Property is Being Reassessed Again!
01/16/2024
Episode 270: It's 2024 And Your Chicago Property is Being Reassessed Again!
What do investors need to be aware of with the 2024 property tax reassessments? Connect with Mark and Tom: Email the Show: Guest: Andrea Raila, Link: ----------------- Production House: Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2024.
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Episode 269: Tax Auctions, Break-Ins, and More with Daniel Kaufman
01/11/2024
Episode 269: Tax Auctions, Break-Ins, and More with Daniel Kaufman
Daniel Kaufman is an attorney with over a decade of vast experience representing real estate developers with transactions, as well as litigation, with a lot of practice involving the foreclosure auction! Daniel is also an investor who purchases at the tax auction for himself, using the assistance of another attorney who specializes in that specific legal work. Daniel kicks things off by discussing his start in real estate where he served as attorney on tax auction properties! He shares a great story on his first deal which was a 3-flat in the United Center neighborhood. He dives deep on working with the City during renovations and tells us about his current single family home deconversion. Daniel drops great nuggets on sourcing deals and grinding to learn your market to give you a competitive edge! If you enjoy today’s episode, please leave us a review and share with someone who may also find value in this content! Connect with Mark and Tom: Email the Show: Guest: Daniel Kaufman, Link: Link: Link: ----------------- Guest Questions 03:31 Housing Provider Tip: Routinely check your vacant properties even if vacancy is temporary. 04:19 Intro to our guest, Daniel Kaufman! 07:11 Starting off in real estate with tax auction properties! 11:05 Bank-owned properties and Daniel’s United Center 3-flat story! 19:07 Tax auction properties. 23:28 Daniel’s next project in the United Center neighborhood! 25:50 Obtaining plans and permits and working with the City. 31:27 Sourcing deals. 35:02 Daniel’s SFH deconversion! 41:49 Daniel’s outlook on Chicago Real Estate. 47:27 What is Daniel’s competitive advantage? 47:51 One piece of advice for new investors. 48:29 What do you do for fun? 48:50 Good book, podcast, or self development activity that you would recommend? 51:09 Local Network Recommendation? 51:26 How can the listeners learn more about you and provide value to you? ----------------- Production House: Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2024.
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Episode 268: Five Bold Predictions For Chicago Real Estate in 2024 with Jake Fugman and Mike Scanlon
01/04/2024
Episode 268: Five Bold Predictions For Chicago Real Estate in 2024 with Jake Fugman and Mike Scanlon
Jake Fugman and Mike Scanlon, leaders of The Axon Group, return to provide Five Bold Predictions on the 2024 Real Estate Market! We kick things off with a hot topic; what will interest rates do in 2024?! Jake and Mike weigh in on the asset class and neighborhoods positioned for big time growth in 2024. For turn-key, low maintenance investments, the group discusses areas with great opportunities for condo investments. Lastly, Jake and Mike discuss where cap rates are headed and sectors of commercial real estate that may be in trouble. As usual, Jake and Mike bring tremendous value and insights to give Chicago Investors a competitive edge! If you enjoy today’s episode, please leave us a review and share with someone who may also find value in this content! Connect with Mark and Tom: Email the Show: Guest: Jake Fugman & Mike Scanlon of Link: Link: Link: Link: Link: ----------------- Guest Questions 02:33 Housing Provider Tip: Provide tenants with a credit reporting service to help them build their credit. 03:22 Intro to our guests, Jake Fugman and Mike Scanlon. 07:03 Bold Prediction #1: Interest Rates in 2024! 15:09 Bold Prediction #2: Asset class to appreciate at least 10% in value! 21:25 Bold Prediction #3: Neighborhoods positioned to boom in value! 28:07 Bold Prediction #4: Future of downtown condo prices! 37:18 Bold Prediction #5: Where are multifamily cap rates heading? 51:46 Jake’s and Mike’s motivation to be thought-leaders in Chicago REI! 55:37 What is Jake’s and Mike’s competitive advantage? 57:23 One piece of advice for new investors. 59:10 What do you do for fun? 62:20 Good book, podcast, or self development activity that you would recommend? 63:51 Local Network Recommendation? 65:28 How can the listeners learn more about you and provide value to you? ----------------- Production House: Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2024.
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Episode 267: The Ins-And-Outs of Cost Segregation
01/02/2024
Episode 267: The Ins-And-Outs of Cost Segregation
What do investors need to know regarding cost segregation? Connect with Mark and Tom: Email the Show: Guest: Brenten Blakeman, Link: ----------------- Production House: Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2024.
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Episode 266: Reviewing The “Bring Chicago Home” Tax and Its Implications to Housing Providers with Mike Glasser
12/28/2023
Episode 266: Reviewing The “Bring Chicago Home” Tax and Its Implications to Housing Providers with Mike Glasser
We welcome Mike Glasser back to inform us on the “Mansion” Tax and other Housing Provider legislative topics! Mike dives right in by explaining the proposed “Bring Chicago Home” Ordinance (a.k.a. “Mansion” Tax) and its impact on Chicago's economy. He explains the intent of the proposed ordinance and reasoning for why it will end up negatively impacting not only the “rich”, but also Housing Providers, Tenants, and normal Property Owners. Housing Providers will need to increase revenue which primarily comes through rental income to offset increased operating costs that they cannot control. As usual, Mike brings tremendous value and advocacy for Chicago Housing Providers on today’s show. If you enjoy today’s episode, please leave us a review and share with someone who may also find value in this content! Connect with Mark and Tom: Email the Show: Guest: Mike Glasser, Link: Link: ----------------- Guest Questions 02:35 Housing Provider Tip: Be prepared with a checklist when starting ownership or management of a new property. 05:00 Intro to our guest, Mike Glasser. 10:23 Mansion Tax and other upcoming challenges for Housing Providers. 32:20 What can Housing Providers do to prevent the Mansion Tax? 34:34 Evanston’s Landlord and Tenant Ordinance. 41:14 Mike’s advice on how to get involved in Housing Provider Advocacy! 45:21 What is Mike’s competitive advantage? 46:09 One piece of advice for new investors. 47:27 What do you do for fun? 47:44 Good book, podcast, or self development activity that you would recommend? 48:40 Local Network Recommendation? 49:41 How can the listeners learn more about you and provide value to you? ----------------- Production House: Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2023.
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Episode 265: An In-Depth Inspection of Chicago Buildings with George Meegan and Dean Cushing
12/21/2023
Episode 265: An In-Depth Inspection of Chicago Buildings with George Meegan and Dean Cushing
George Meegan and Dean Cushing join us to share insights from several decades of experience in the building systems and inspection industry! The duo jumps right in by discussing their start in the inspection industry and giving us some inspection horror stories. George and Dean get granular on common issues with major building systems including plumbing, heating/cooling, roofs, and windows. They explain how property owners can leverage property assessments from experienced professionals not only at the time of purchase, but also during other phases of ownership. George and Dean demonstrate their vast knowledge on building systems and give valuable tips for property owners throughout the show! If you enjoy today’s episode, please leave us a review and share with someone who may also find value in this content! Connect with Mark and Tom: Email the Show: Guest: | Call George: Link: Link: Link: ----------------- Guest Questions 02:41 Housing Provider Tip: Remove unused cables attached to exterior walls to prevent future issues! 03:42 Intro to our guest, George and Dean! 08:34 Inspection Horror Stories 10:19 Common inspection issues on roofs. 14:52 Inspecting plumbing systems. 19:38 Assessing windows. 21:31 Heating and Cooling Systems. 40:38 What to look for in masonry and lintels? 46:32 Understanding catch basins. 48:40 Property condition assessments. 56:17 What is George’s and Dean’s competitive advantage? 57:36 One piece of advice for new investors. 58:21 What do you do for fun? 58:58 Good book, podcast, or self development activity that you would recommend? 59:43 Local Network Recommendation? 60:05 How can the listeners learn more about you and provide value to you? ----------------- Production House: Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2023.
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Episode 264: Unlocking Zoning Secrets: Your Guide to Chicago Zoning, ADUs, and Other Essential Information
12/19/2023
Episode 264: Unlocking Zoning Secrets: Your Guide to Chicago Zoning, ADUs, and Other Essential Information
Where can I go to find all information around zoning, ADU, lot sizes and lot lines, and other essential information? Connect with Mark and Tom: Email the Show: Guest: Samuel Pavlovcik, Link: ----------------- Production House: Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2023.
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Episode 263: Buying Chicago Lots For $1 and Other Successful Strategies with Tanisha Blakemore
12/14/2023
Episode 263: Buying Chicago Lots For $1 and Other Successful Strategies with Tanisha Blakemore
Tanisha kicks things off by discussing her first deal back in 2005; a 2-unit in Auburn Gresham that she purchased with 0% down! She talks about learning to be a housing provider during a time when resources were much more scarce than today. Tanisha has a couple real estate horror stories including another fire story and the US Marshals arriving at her property. She closes with an outlook on Auburn Gresham and empowering words on getting into the real estate game! If you enjoy today’s episode, please leave us a review and share with someone who may also find value in this content! Connect with Mark and Tom: Email the Show: Guest: Tanisha Blakemore, Link: Link: Link: Link: ----------------- Guest Questions 03:05 Housing Provider Tip: Routinely check smoke detectors to mitigate risk. 04:09 Intro to our guest, Tanisha Blakemore! 07:47 Tanisha’s first deal at 25 years of age! 12:25 Tanisha’s next steps following her first deal. 15:45 US Marshals at Tanisha’s property! 18:14 Another property fire story! 26:14 Acquiring a Dollar lot! 30:44 Tanisha’s decision to get licensed. 33:15 Outlook on Auburn Gresham. 35:27 What is Tanisha’s competitive advantage? 36:05 One piece of advice for new investors. 36:42 What do you do for fun? 36:55 Good book, podcast, or self development activity that you would recommend? 37:55 Local Network Recommendation? 38:28 How can the listeners learn more about you and provide value to you? ----------------- Production House: Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2023.
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Episode 262: From FBI Agent to Hundreds of Doors In Chicago with James Williams
12/07/2023
Episode 262: From FBI Agent to Hundreds of Doors In Chicago with James Williams
James Williams is a real estate investor, attorney, and former FBI agent who embarked on his real estate journey in the early 90s! James starts by discussing how he chose a career path which includes a period of working in the FBI, all while having real estate investing on the back of his mind. He discusses his first real estate purchase, a graystone on Chicago’s Northside purchased in the 90s! James shares insights raising capital, acquiring hundreds of units, and extremely rough times in his investing career that resulted in him selling off most of his portfolio. He shares the impact of losing a valued business partner and friend. The silver lining of the rough times is that James still holds a nice portfolio and has the team in place to continue scaling! Throughout the show, James emphasizes the importance of patience, due diligence, and building a great team. Most importantly, after 262 episodes, we finally get to drop a Point Break reference. If you enjoy today’s episode, please leave us a review and share with someone who may also find value in this content! Connect with Mark and Tom: Email the Show: Guest: James Williams, Link: Link: Link: ----------------- Guest Questions 02:31 Clean leaves to prevent clogging of gutters and drains! 03:39 Intro to our guest, James Williams! 09:30 James’ quest to buy his first piece of real estate! 18:53 Working in the FBI! 25:33 Raising capital for RE Investing. 37:32 Lessons learned from 4 years in a tough market. 47:55 Selling off most of the portfolio. 53:36 Costs of Selling. 56:35 What’s next for James? 59:43 What is James’ competitive advantage? 61:13 One piece of advice for new investors. 62:50 What do you do for fun? 63:45 Good book, podcast, or self development activity that you would recommend? 64:28 Local Network Recommendation? 65:04 How can the listeners learn more about you and provide value to you? ----------------- Production House: Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2023.
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