Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session518/

MB517 - The Conversations You Never Hear inside a failing deal — With Michael Blank and Garrett Lynch

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 01:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Michael Blank answers a listener question about what happens when a deal doesn’t go as planned—specifically, how to handle loan restructuring in today’s challenging market. With rising interest rates and tighter lending conditions, many operators are facing refinancing pressure. Michael walks through practical strategies for working with lenders, protecting investors, and navigating difficult situations while maintaining credibility and long-term relationships.

Key Takeaways

Loan challenges are more common in today’s market, especially with floating-rate debt and expiring terms.
Proactive communication with lenders is critical — the earlier you engage, the more options you have.
Lenders don’t want to take your property — they are often willing to restructure if you bring a realistic plan.
Transparency with investors builds long-term trust, even when deals face difficulties.
Sometimes additional capital or modified terms are necessary to stabilize a deal.
How you handle tough situations defines your reputation far more than easy wins.

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session517/

MB516: What If Everything You Believe About Getting Started Is Wrong? — With Michael Blank

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 09:45:00 -0400

In this episode, Michael Blank breaks down the two biggest myths that stop aspiring investors from getting started in apartment building investing. Many believe they need years of experience or their own capital to do a deal—but Michael explains why neither is true. By reframing these misconceptions and focusing on building the right team and skill set, you can fast-track your path to your first multifamily deal and start scaling much faster than you thought possible.

🔑 Key Takeaways

Myth #1: You need experience to get started — you can leverage a team and partners to “borrow” credibility and track record.
Myth #2: You need your own money — raising capital is a learnable skill and a core part of syndication.
Syndication is a team sport — success comes from assembling the right people, not doing everything yourself.
Taking action matters more than perfection — waiting until you feel “ready” delays progress unnecessarily.
You can specialize in one role (deal finder or capital raiser) instead of mastering everything upfront.
Breaking these two myths unlocks momentum, making your first deal far more achievable than most people think.

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session516/

MB515: How To Do Your First $4M Deal in 7 Days - With Michael Blank

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 01:00:00 -0400

In this solo episode, Michael Blank introduces a powerful strategy designed to help aspiring syndicators overcome the biggest obstacle in real estate: getting your first deal done. While most first deals take 6–12 months, Michael explains how you can dramatically accelerate your learning curve by running a “Live Sample Deal”—a simulated real-world acquisition that walks you through the entire process in just seven days.

By analyzing a real property, speaking with brokers, building your team, and even negotiating an offer, you gain the experience and confidence needed to pursue actual deals. This practical exercise helps eliminate fear, expand your comfort zone, and move you significantly closer to closing your first multifamily investment.

Key Takeaways

The first deal changes everything — once you close a deal, brokers, investors, and opportunities start coming to you.
Most first deals take 6–12 months, but you can accelerate your learning through a simulated “Live Sample Deal.”
Confidence comes from action, not just education—walking through the full deal process builds real-world experience.
Simulating a deal removes fear, especially the fear of making offers or raising capital.
Running a sample deal can get you roughly 80% of the experience of doing a real transaction.
Expanding your comfort zone is key—what once felt impossible (like a 50-unit deal) quickly becomes achievable after practicing the process.

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session515/

MB514: 6 Big Lessons from the Last 30 Days (Market Bottoms, AI Disruption, and Community) - With Michael Blank

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 01:00:00 -0400

In this solo episode, Michael reflects on the biggest lessons he’s learned over the past 30 days—from the state of the multifamily market to the power of relationships, networking, and emerging technologies like AI. Drawing from recent conferences, conversations with industry leaders, and personal experiences, he shares key insights that could shape how investors approach the next phase of the market cycle.

Michael discusses why many experts believe multifamily is near the bottom of the cycle, why diversification beyond real estate matters, and how building community and meaningful relationships can dramatically impact both business success and personal fulfillment. He also shares why he believes artificial intelligence will fundamentally transform productivity and entrepreneurship in the years ahead.

Whether you're an active investor, aspiring syndicator, or simply looking for clarity in a shifting market, this episode delivers practical insights and mindset shifts that can help you navigate the next stage of your investing journey.

Key Takeaways

Why many industry experts believe the multifamily market may be at or near the bottom of the cycle
The role of interest rate stability and supply constraints in shaping the next phase of growth
Why absorption rates and concessions are becoming key indicators to watch in apartment markets
How diversification into other asset classes—and even operating businesses—can strengthen your portfolio
The unexpected opportunities that come from networking and getting out of your comfort zone
Why investing in your closest relationships may be the most important investment you make
How artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming productivity, analysis, and entrepreneurship
Why building community is becoming increasingly important in a world with declining online trust

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session514/

MB513: Why Multifamily Is the Fastest Path to Financial Freedom - With Michael Blank

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 03:00:00 -0400

In this solo episode, Michael Blank shares the exact moment he pivoted from flipping houses and single-family rentals into multifamily investing—and why it became the single best financial decision of his life. He breaks down the math, the scalability, the risk profile, and the long-term wealth-building power of apartment syndications compared to other strategies like flips, short-term rentals, and pad splits. If you’re wondering how to truly scale real estate without burning out, this episode lays it out step by step.

Key Takeaways

Single-family investing doesn’t scale efficiently — replacing income requires dozens of properties and constant effort.
Multifamily syndications create multiple profit centers: acquisition fees, asset management fees, cash flow, and equity at sale.
You get paid when you buy in multifamily—something no other strategy offers at scale.
Professional property management makes multifamily more passive, allowing faster growth with less day-to-day involvement.
Risk is reduced through diversification — 100 tenants are safer than one.
Long-term housing shortages and declining new construction permits support strong multifamily fundamentals.

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session513/

MB512: Why This Real Estate Investor Walked Away From 100 Deals (and What He Did Instead) - With Steve Libman

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 01:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Michael Blank sits down with capital-raising expert Steve Libman to discuss what it really takes to attract investors in today’s challenging market. From building credibility and long-term trust to navigating objections and resetting expectations, Steve shares practical strategies for raising equity when fear and uncertainty are high. This conversation is a masterclass in relationships, resilience, and playing the long game in syndication.

Key Takeaways

Capital raising is a long-term relationship business, not a transactional one.
Investors are more cautious than ever, requiring transparency, conservative underwriting, and consistent communication.
Your track record is built during downturns, not bull markets.
Education reduces fear — the more investors understand market cycles, the more confident they become.
Follow-up and consistency matter more than charisma when building investor trust.
The operators who survive this cycle will emerge stronger, with deeper investor loyalty and credibility.

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session512/

MB511: How to Use AI, Data, and Market Timing to Gain an “Unfair” Advantage in Multifamily — With Neal Bawa

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 01:00:00 -0400

In this data-driven episode, Michael Blank is joined by returning guest Neal Bawa, one of the most analytical minds in multifamily real estate. Neal breaks down why the market has failed to rebound as many expected, why 2026 may remain a “muddling” year, and how excess supply, construction costs, and policy decisions are reshaping rents and underwriting assumptions. This conversation offers a clear-eyed, numbers-based outlook on what investors should realistically expect over the next several years.

Key Takeaways

The market is behaving rationally, not emotionally — despite abundant capital, investors remain cautious due to fundamentals, not fear.
Three consecutive years of oversupply broke historical patterns, causing Class B and C assets to feel pressure previously thought impossible.
Rent growth is slowly returning, with projections around ~1.5% in 2026 and normalization closer to 2.5% beyond that.
Many deals will never return to original pro formas, requiring investors to reset expectations and focus on survivability over returns.
Rising construction costs from labor shortages and tariffs are likely to suppress new development and benefit existing assets long term.
2027–2029 may see meaningful upside, as reduced supply finally meets sustained housing demand.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session511/

MB510: What Separates the Winners: Multifamily Lessons from $50M Lost and Rebuilt - With Rod Khlief

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 01:00:00 -0400

In this candid and wide-ranging conversation, Michael Blank reconnects with Rod Khleif, multifamily investor, educator, and entrepreneur, to unpack what’s really happened in real estate over the past few years. Together, they discuss the current multifamily downturn, rising expenses, distressed assets, and why pain in the market often creates the greatest opportunities. The episode also explores alternative asset classes, operating businesses, syndication beyond apartments, and how investors can position themselves for what’s coming next.

Key Takeaways

Multifamily is going through a real reckoning, driven by rising interest rates, expenses, and maturing debt—not a broken asset class.
Separating the past from the future is critical — what happened over the last two years doesn’t define the next cycle.
Syndication is the transferable skill, applicable to real estate, senior housing, self-storage, and even operating businesses.
Distress creates opportunity, especially with forced sales, refinancing challenges, and upcoming loan maturities.
Partner selection matters more than ever — misaligned or weak partners can destroy otherwise solid deals.
Diversification across asset classes and strategies can create resilience during volatile market cycles.

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session510/

MB509: Market Outlook - Investing in 2024-25 vs. 2026 (Different Risk Profile) - With Michael Blank

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 01:00:00 -0400

In this solo episode, Michael Blank breaks down what really happened in multifamily during 2025 and what investors should expect in 2026. He unpacks supply and demand trends, rent growth, interest rate expectations, and the affordability crisis shaping renter behavior. While the last few years have been challenging, Michael explains why 2026 is likely a year of stability that sets the stage for long-term growth—and why today’s risk-adjusted returns may be better than they’ve been in years.

Key Takeaways

2025 was a year of absorption, not growth — record demand was offset by an unprecedented wave of new supply, keeping rents flat to down.
New construction is falling sharply, with permits dropping and high interest rates making most projects uneconomical.
Affordability favors renting, as buying a home now costs significantly more than renting, supporting long-term rental demand.
2026 consensus outlook is stability with modest rent growth, likely around 2%, setting up normalized growth in 2027 and beyond.
Interest rates are expected to be flat to slightly down, a meaningful shift from the uncertainty of the past three years.
Lower leverage and better pricing improve risk-adjusted returns, making today’s environment healthier than the frothy market of 2021–2022

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session509/

MB508: How High-Achievers Sabotage Great Deals (And How to Stop) — With Derrick Lind

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 01:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Michael sits down with Derrick Lind, a structural engineer with 25 years of experience who transitioned from single-family rentals into multifamily syndication. Derrick shares how his analytical mindset both helped—and initially held him back—as he navigated analysis paralysis, conservative underwriting, and fear of taking action. He also discusses how mentorship, networking, and ultimately writing a book (Real Estate Investing for Engineers) helped him break through and close larger deals with confidence.

Key Takeaways

Analytical strengths can become liabilities — engineers and professionals excel at analysis but often struggle to take action without perfect information.
Single-family rentals become inefficient at scale, leading many investors to multifamily for better operations, valuation control, and professional management.
You don’t need 100% certainty to move forward — real estate is forgiving, and most deals allow room to adjust after closing.
Mentorship and networks accelerate growth by providing experienced perspectives, deal flow, and partnership opportunities.
Being overly conservative can prevent deals entirely — it’s better to manage risk than avoid it altogether.
Authority builds credibility — writing a book positioned Derrick as a trusted expert and opened doors with investors and partners.

Check Out His Book

Real Estate Investing for Engineers: Grow Passive Income with a Technical Mindset - By Derrick Lind

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session508/

MB507: What Millionaires Do Before 8AM (That You Probably Don’t) - With Hal Elrod

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 01:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Michael Blank sits down with Hal Elrod, bestselling author of The Miracle Morning, to talk about habits, mindset, and resilience. Hal shares how a near-fatal car accident, cancer, and financial collapse reshaped his philosophy on success—and why personal development is the foundation of financial freedom. This conversation explores how investors can use intentional daily routines to build clarity, discipline, and long-term fulfillment both in business and in life.

Key Takeaways

Morning routines shape long-term success — how you start the day determines focus, energy, and results.
Adversity is neutral — meaning comes from the perspective you choose, not the circumstance itself.
Personal development is non-negotiable — investing in yourself accelerates every other area of life.
Small daily habits compound over time, creating massive long-term impact.
Success without fulfillment is failure — aligning goals with purpose matters more than achievement alone.
Consistency beats intensity — sustainable routines outperform short-lived motivation.

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session507/

MB506: Why I’m Reallocating Capital Away From Apartments — With Michael Blank

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 01:00:00 -0400

In this solo episode, Michael Blank pulls back the curtain on why he’s expanding beyond multifamily real estate into business acquisitions and private equity. He breaks down how buying operating businesses can complement real estate investing, diversify investor portfolios, and create strong cash flow without day-to-day operations. Michael shares the exact framework, buy box, and risk-mitigation strategy he’s using as Nighthawk Equity cautiously enters this space—and why this move is about long-term stability, not abandoning multifamily.

Key Takeaways

Business acquisitions can provide strong cash flow and diversification alongside real estate investments.
Michael evaluates businesses using a simple three-bucket framework: talent, customers, and cash management.
The focus is on stable, recession-resistant businesses with experienced leadership already in place.
Conservative use of debt—and often seller financing—is key to managing downside risk.
Unlike multifamily, business acquisitions offer higher cash flow but fewer tax advantages.
This strategy is about complementing multifamily, not replacing it, with a long-term investment mindset.

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session506/

MB505: The Relationship Habits That Shaped Our Success — With Michael & Vivian Blank

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 01:00:00 -0400

In this special and deeply personal episode, Michael sits down with his wife, Vivian Blank, to talk about life beyond real estate. From spending off-season time at Hilton Head to navigating marriage, goal-setting, communication, and long-term partnership, this conversation explores what it really takes to build a meaningful life together while pursuing ambitious goals. Whether you’re married, building a business, or thinking about long-term alignment with your partner, this episode offers honest insights and practical wisdom.

Key Takeaways

Shared goal-setting strengthens relationships — regularly discussing goals creates accountability, clarity, and deeper connection.
You don’t need to work side-by-side to work together — support, communication, and alignment matter more than traditional roles.
Saying goals out loud increases follow-through — verbal commitment makes achievement more likely.
Communication is the foundation of conflict resolution — addressing issues early prevents resentment from building.
Intentional retreats create space for reflection — stepping away from daily routines helps couples reconnect and reset.
Strong partnerships require flexibility and humility — marriage, like business, is an ongoing work in progress.

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session505/

MB504: How ChatGPT Gets Real Estate WRONG (and What Actually Works for 6-Figure Investors) - With Michael Blank

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 01:00:00 -0400

Have you ever asked ChatGPT how to make $10K per month in real estate? I did—and the advice it gave me is the same advice most new investors follow. Buy a few rentals, flip some houses, maybe try BRRRR or short-term rentals. The problem? That advice doesn’t actually work for busy six-figure earners who want financial freedom without adding another full-time job.

In this episode, I break down why AI’s generic advice can actually hold you back, and why most single-family strategies will leave you stuck in the rat race far longer than you expect. I’ll walk you through a smarter way to use ChatGPT—one that tailors its recommendations to your income, your time constraints, and your financial freedom goals. And I’ll share how this real estate strategy finally allowed me, and hundreds of my students, to scale up and start generating mailbox money.

Key Takeaways

ChatGPT’s Advice Won’t Get You to $10K/Month
AI spits out the same top strategies everyone else does—rentals, flips, BRRRR—without any context for your time, income, or goals.
Single-Family Is a Trap for Busy Professionals
Flips and rentals feel like another full-time job and don’t scale to true financial freedom.
Most investors realize too late that these strategies can’t replace a six-figure income.
Better Prompts = Better Strategies
Learn how to ask ChatGPT the right questions so its recommendations actually fit your lifestyle and timeline.
Hint: You need prompts that factor in your job, experience level, and freedom goals.
Multifamily Is the Scalable Solution
With the right approach, you can learn the process, buy your first apartment building in as little as 6 months, and start generating mailbox money.
One good deal can set you on the path to financial freedom.

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session504/

MB503: Why We’re Buying Businesses Now (And You Should Consider It Too) — With Jay Bourgana

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 01:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Michael sits down with Jay Bourgana, a turnaround expert and business builder who went from immigrant roots to overseeing $350M in real estate sales—and now focuses on acquiring and scaling profitable private businesses. Jay breaks down how buying established companies can accelerate wealth creation, how to structure acquisitions without becoming the day-to-day CEO, and why this strategy pairs naturally with syndication and real estate investing. If you’re curious about business acquisitions as a scalable, high-cash-flow complement to multifamily, this episode is for you.

Key Takeaways

Buying established businesses can outperform real estate on cash flow, with acquisitions often priced at 2–4x EBITDA and significant upside on exit.
This strategy is not passive — business acquisitions are best suited for operators with experience, systems thinking, and the ability to build teams.
The goal isn’t to run the business forever: acquire, stabilize, install leadership, and step back from day-to-day operations.
Three systems drive every successful business: customer acquisition & retention, talent acquisition & retention, and financial visibility.
Debt can dramatically amplify returns when paired with strong cash flow, including SBA loans and seller financing.
Recurring-revenue businesses are ideal, especially those with an install + maintenance model that creates predictable long-term income.

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session503/

MB502: The $3B Investor Who Walked Away… and Ended Up Richer Than Ever - with Brad Johnson

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 01:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Michael Blank sits down with Brad Johnson, a 20-year real estate investor who has managed over $3B in assets and successfully transitioned from mobile home park operator to full-time asset allocator. Brad shares how he built his career one deal at a time, the moment he walked away from investment banking, and how he engineered a lifestyle that aligns with his values. This episode is packed with practical wisdom on career transitions, downside-risk investing, and creating long-term financial freedom.

Key Takeaways

The power of compounding — Brad’s investing mindset started early, recognizing the value of long-term ownership.
Career clarity matters — He repeatedly redesigned his professional path when he realized certain roles didn’t fit the life he wanted.
Real estate as stability — Mobile home parks gave him consistent, low-risk, scalable returns and helped him transition out of burnout.
Know your strengths — Brad realized he’s an investor, not an operator, and pivoted from managing teams to allocating capital.
Diversification through operators — Today he partners with 15+ sponsors and private equity firms to spread risk and scale intelligently.
Lead with passion, not just money — Brad highlights the importance of pursuing what energizes you and letting wealth compound over time.

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session502/

MB501: Interest Rates Down. Deals Up. Here’s What You MUST Know - With Brad Tacia and Jonathan Nichols

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 01:00:00 -0400

In this special mentor roundtable, Michael is joined by long-time advisors Brad Tacia and Jonathan Nichols to break down what’s happening in multifamily right now. They share the latest trends in deal flow, investor sentiment, capital raising, and student success—plus the strategies that are working best in today’s market. If you want a clear picture of the current landscape and how new investors are getting deals done, this episode is for you.

Key Takeaways

Deal flow is improving as interest rates stabilize and lenders stop granting extensions, pushing more assets to market.
Investor sentiment is stronger than last year, and capital raising is easier with more certainty in the economy.
Consistency wins — analyzing deals, making offers, and staying resilient through near misses is the path to success.
Partnerships matter — deal finders and capital raisers together accelerate momentum and unlock bigger opportunities.
Sample deal packages allow students to raise capital before they have a deal under contract, solving the “chicken-and-egg” problem.
You don’t need years of experience to get broker attention — consistency, communication, and a clear playbook build instant credibility.

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session501/

MB500: 500th Episode Special — My Honest Answers to Your Biggest Questions

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 01:00:00 -0400

To celebrate 500 episodes of the Financial Freedom with Real Estate Podcast, Michael flips the script and answers your biggest questions. Listeners submitted their favorite episodes plus their most burning questions about scaling, quitting a W-2, raising capital, working with brokers, avoiding bad deals, parenting, mindset, and even… Michael’s net worth. This special episode is packed with hard-earned wisdom from a decade of podcasting and real-world investing experience.

Key Takeaways:

Time is not the real barrier — priority is. With 5 focused hours a week, you can build a multimillion-dollar real estate business on the side.
When to quit your W-2? It’s personal. Burn-the-boats works for some, but most people exit when acquisition fees and deal income create a meaningful financial runway.
Comfort zone determines whether you buy a duplex or a 50-unit. Touring larger properties stretches your perceived limits instantly.
Raising capital is easier than you think. Engineers, introverts, and first-timers routinely raise $500K–$750K within 60 days with the right playbook.
You don’t need to raise all the money yourself. Capital raisers and deal finders are natural partners — leverage ecosystems and joint ventures.
How to stand out to brokers: Build a team first, stop using newbie language, stay responsive, and meet them in person.
Know when to walk away from a deal: Sometimes you should — sometimes you shouldn’t. Experienced mentors help you see the difference.
Focus on passive income, not net worth. Financial freedom is when passive income exceeds living expenses.
Most valuable life lesson for his kids: Live intentionally. Not defaulting into a career or life path.
Success is less about outcomes and more about who you become. Mindset, peace, and character matter more than money.

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session500/

MB499: Swap Till You Drop: Building Wealth with Tax-Advantaged Real Estate – With Louis Rogers

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 01:00:00 -0400

What if you could build wealth through real estate… without paying taxes along the way? In this episode, Michael Blank welcomes Louis Rogers, founder of Capital Square and pioneer of the tenants-in-common model still widely referenced today. Lewis breaks down the simplicity of 1031 exchanges, why DSTs have replaced TICs, and how investors can eventually move into a REIT structure to enjoy completely passive investing — while still deferring taxes. If you want to learn how the wealthy use the tax code to accelerate their net worth, this episode is a must-listen.

Key Takeaways:

1031 exchanges are simpler than most people think — and typically cost about $1,000 using a qualified intermediary.
The old tenants-in-common (TIC) structure is obsolete — DSTs are now the preferred option for 1031 investors.
Investors can move from active ownership → DSTs → UPREIT, getting more passive over time.
Tax deferral can continue for life — with a step-up in basis eliminating capital gains upon inheritance.
The U.S. tax code is uniquely favorable to real estate — wealthy families use it strategically.
Paying taxes is a choice: learn the rules and keep more of your money working for you.

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session499/

MB498: Unlock the $40 Trillion Secret Hiding in Retirement Accounts - With Kaaren Hall

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 01:00:00 -0400

Did you know there’s more than $40 trillion sitting in U.S. retirement accounts — most of which could be invested in real estate? In this episode, Michael Blank chats with Karen Hall, Founder of uDirect IRA and author of The BiggerPockets Guide to Self-Directed IRA Investing, to break down the rules, tax implications, and best practices that allow investors to use their retirement funds to participate in real estate syndications. Whether you're a GP raising capital or an LP investing passively, this conversation will help you unlock one of the biggest capital sources in the world.

Key Takeaways:

There is $40 trillion in retirement accounts — a huge capital pool most investors overlook.
Self-directed IRAs can invest in syndications, rentals, notes, crypto, precious metals, and more.
The IRS has prohibited transaction rules — keep investments arm’s length to avoid penalties.
UBIT/UDFI taxes can apply when leverage is involved — tax advisors are essential.
A solo 401(k) can reduce some debt-related tax exposure.
Recent laws may allow employer 401(k)s to include alternative investment funds, opening the door wider.
Always ask investors: “Do you have retirement funds?” — because most won’t think of it themselves.

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session498/

MB497: Engineer Closes $9.7M Deal in 4 Months: How Jordan McNeely Closed His First Multifamily Syndication - With Jordan McNeely

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 01:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Michael talks with Jordan McNeely, a former nuclear engineer who realized his rotating 12-hour shift job was draining his energy and keeping him from family life. That sparked his pursuit of passive income and a scalable path to financial freedom through multifamily real estate.

Jordan dove into education, joined a mentoring program to master underwriting and capital raising, and committed 15 hours a week to learning and networking. In just a few months, he partnered with an experienced team on a 96-unit deal in Charlotte and raised over $700,000 from friends and family — despite never having raised money before.

Key Takeaways:

Skip single-family and scale faster — multifamily penciled out and aligned with his limited time.
Time freedom was the motivator — rotating day/night shifts took a toll on family, health, and presence.
Mindset shift on raising capital — he stopped “pitching” and started asking about investor goals.
One investor conversation per day → $700K raised in 2 months.
Retirement funds unlocked big capital using self-directed IRAs.
Partnerships shortcut experience — he leveraged a team already active in Charlotte.
He made time a priority — 15 hours/week dedicated to education, networking, and raising capital.

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session497/

MB496: Behind the Curtain: How We Actually Run Nighthawk Equity

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 01:00:00 -0400

Ever wonder what really goes on inside a syndication company? In this rare behind-the-scenes episode, Michael Blank and his Nighthawk Equity business partner, Drew Niffin, pull back the curtain on how they operate their private equity firm — the wins, the painful lessons, and how they’ve adapted during the toughest market the multifamily industry has seen in decades.

They share the full story of scaling from the early partnership days… to building a team… to navigating the last 2.5 years of interest rate spikes, stalled rent growth, and operational pressure. You’ll also get a candid look at what’s changing inside Nighthawk — including new investment opportunities being unlocked for passive investors.

This is the most transparent discussion they’ve ever recorded about what it really takes to run an investment company — and where multifamily investing is going next.

Key Takeaways:

Success Takes a Team: Syndication is impossible to scale alone. Capital raising, operations, and acquisitions each demand full-time focus.
Systems Create Stability: Implementing a business operating system like EOS transformed communication, accountability, and execution across the company.
Hard Markets Build Strong Operators: The last 2.5 years forced better operations, tougher decisions, and stronger lender relationships.
Debt Determines Destiny: Loan structure can make or break a deal — even if operations are strong.
Operations Win: Leasing, renewal strategy, resident experience, and in-house oversight are now essential competitive edges.
The Future Is More Than Multifamily: Nighthawk is expanding into real estate debt funds and boutique private equity (buying profitable small businesses).
Investor-First Mission: Every system and decision centers on one outcome — delivering reliable performance to passive investors.

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session496/

MB495: The $10M Idea That Made 20 Rentals Look Like a Waste of Time - With Andrew Reichert

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 01:00:00 -0400

Andrew Reichert, CEO of Birgo Capital, went from buying his first duplex with no money down to owning 3,000+ units worth over $300 million. But his journey wasn’t all smooth sailing - Andrew reveals how building a 20-rental portfolio nearly bankrupted him, the “$10M idea” that changed everything, and the lessons he learned scaling his business.

Whether you’re stuck managing a handful of single-family rentals or trying to figure out how to break into larger deals, this conversation will help you shortcut years of trial and error.

Key Takeaways

Why Small Rentals Won’t Set You Free

How Andrew realized that $200/month per property wasn’t going to replace his income.
The math that made him pivot away from single-family rentals.

From Duplexes to a $300M Portfolio

Why raising capital was the turning point in his career.
How starting with a fund instead of a single deal accelerated his growth.

The Hardest Lesson in Scaling a Company

Why “the people who got you here won’t always get you there.”
How to make tough calls without losing sight of your mission.

Finding Purpose Beyond Financial Freedom

How Andrew’s Rhino Operating System helps people align their work with their purpose.
Why clarity—not just cash flow—is the real key to building a fulfilling life.

Overcoming Comfort and Taking Action

Why staying “comfortable” keeps most investors from scaling.
Practical tips to create urgency and move from idea to execution.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session495/

MB494: What Billionaire Investors Really Want (And How to Work With Them) - With Richard Wilson

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 01:00:00 -0400

Economic pressure is shrinking returns and tightening capital—but there’s a smarter way forward. In this episode, Michael Blank reconnects with Richard Wilson, founder of the Family Office Club, to explore how multifamily operators can add new strategic layers—not abandon their base.

Richard explains why family offices are focusing less on projected returns and more on trust, positioning, and access. He breaks down how top operators are earning investor confidence, raising capital through debt and niche strategies, and using AI to scale their investor reach and event ecosystems. This isn’t about leaving multifamily—it’s about unlocking more sophisticated pathways to grow wealth and build influence.

Key Takeaways

Relationships outweigh returns

Investors commit capital based on trust, not just numbers.
Track records are only as strong as the operator’s transparency during tough times.
Desperation repels capital—authenticity and long-term engagement are key.

Multifamily is a foundation

Real estate experience builds credibility that opens doors to new asset classes.
Diversification into storage, assisted living, or industrial doesn’t replace multifamily—it expands the investor's options.
Many capital raisers evolve beyond single-operator deals by layering in flexibility and variety.

Great fund managers think like media companies

Creating value-rich content builds investor confidence long before a deal shows up.
Every touchpoint—grad parties, social media, one-on-one texts—is a chance to reinforce trust.
Consistent communication and thoughtful follow-up outperform one-off pitches.

Family offices play a long game

They don’t just invest in deals—they invest in people with generational vision.
Credibility, track record, and staying power are non-negotiables.
It often takes years of rapport-building before a single dollar is committed—but the result is deep, repeatable capital.

Connect with Richard

Website

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session494/

MB493: 2025 Q4 Market Outlook

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 01:00:00 -0400

In this special market outlook session, Michael Blank breaks down the current state of the multifamily investing landscape—and explains why Q4 2025 may present one of the best buying opportunities we've seen in over a decade.

Despite high interest rates and ongoing fear in the media, Michael shares why the smart money is moving back into multifamily real estate, and how passive and active investors alike can take advantage of this rare window.

He also makes a few big announcements—including a move into business acquisitions and real estate debt funds—designed to expand the wealth-building options available to his investor community.

If you're wondering whether to sit tight, double down, or make your first move—this is the clarity you're looking for.

Key Takeaways

Multifamily prices are still 20–40% below their 2022 peak

Institutional buyers are actively acquiring distressed assets
Market fear has created undervalued buying opportunities
Valuations remain well below replacement cost

Rising leverage is pushing prices back up

Loan proceeds are increasing from 65% to 75% LTV
Lenders are re-entering the market with more aggressive terms
Higher leverage means stronger returns with less equity required

Demand for rental housing remains strong

Homeownership is 44% more expensive than renting
The U.S. faces a multi-million-unit housing shortage
New construction activity has slowed significantly

Risk-adjusted returns are stronger than in 2022

Interest rates are stabilizing, lowering market uncertainty
Deals now use fixed-rate debt and more conservative underwriting
Investors are getting the same returns with significantly less risk

The Passive Income Calculator helps investors plan their freedom

Allows modeling based on actual investment inputs
Tracks projected growth in passive income and net worth
No opt-in required—download and start planning immediately

New opportunities are coming from TMB

Expansion into real estate debt funds and business acquisitions
Targeting cash-flowing, recession-resistant businesses
Designed to offer passive investors more options for building wealth

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session493/

MB492: Raising $50M in 2 Years: Capital Raising Blueprint - With Jeremy Dyer

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 01:00:00 -0400

Most people raising capital are doing it completely wrong. They focus on flashy decks, mass emails, and trying to “look big”—but investors can smell the inauthenticity from a mile away.

Jeremy Dyer took a different approach. He raised $50M in under 2 years by leading with trust, transparency, and one-on-one conversations—all while holding down a full-time tech sales job and raising four kids.

In this episode, Michael Blank uncovers the real strategies behind Jeremy’s rise from passive investor to powerhouse capital raiser. You’ll learn how he built a loyal investor base, scaled legally with fund-to-fund models, and is now buying deals at massive discounts while others sit on the sidelines. If you think capital raising is about money—it’s not. It’s about people.

Head over to https://thefreedompodcast.com/500 to submit for a chance to win free merch and be highlighted in episode 500!!!

Key Takeaways

Why LP Experience Makes You a Better Syndicator

Jeremy invested in over 40 syndications before ever raising a dollar.
Seeing wins and losses helped him understand what real investors care about.
He built empathy—and that changed everything.

Capital Raising is Human, Not Corporate

His $50M didn’t come from ads—it came from deep personal conversations.
Jeremy rebranded himself organically, one investor at a time.
Sales background helped, but being authentic mattered more.

How to Stand Out in a Sea of Noise

He personally checks in with 20 investors every week.
Following up on personal details (like a kid’s birthday) beats “just checking in” emails.
Raising capital is about trust—not timing.

The Right Way to Raise Capital for Others

Jeremy uses fund-to-fund structures to stay compliant.
He partners with operators without muddying incentives.
Leveraging someone else’s backend frees him to focus on investors.

Why Now Is a Massive Buying Opportunity

Jeremy’s acquiring deals at 30–40% below peak pricing.
Distressed sellers and rising absorption = market bottom approaching.
He’s not scared—he’s scaling.

Connect with Jeremy

https://www.startingpointcapital.com/

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session492/

MB491: How to Scale Without Hustling Harder: In-House Teams, Smarter Capital, and Fast Execution—With Kent Ritter

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 01:00:00 -0400

Think you need 10 years of house flipping before you can go big in real estate? In this episode, Michael Blank sits down with Kent Ritter—Founder of Hudson Investing and host of Ritter on Real Estate—who scaled from solo operator to managing 2,000+ units and leading his own in-house property management firm. He didn’t wait for permission. He didn’t grind for a decade. He built systems, teams, and a killer culture that made scale inevitable.

They unpack how he made the leap from flipping houses to running a real syndication business, and why skipping the “single-family hustle” may be the smartest move you can make. If you’re tired of thinking small, this episode will wake you up.

Key Takeaways

Why Single-Family Strategies Keep You Stuck

Flipping and landlording create income—but not freedom.
Most "passive" single-family models are just high-paying jobs in disguise.
You don’t need 10 years of grinding to go multifamily—you need a mindset shift.

How to Build a Real Business (Not Just Do More Deals)

Learn why Kent’s first plateau happened—and how he broke through it with the right partner.
Discover how he scaled from 7 to 30 team members overnight by bringing property management in-house.
Building culture and hiring to core values was Kent’s unfair advantage—here’s how to do it right.

The Hidden Challenge of Raising Capital

Why your friends and family won’t take you seriously at first—and what to do instead.
The #1 perception you must change to consistently raise from private investors.
You don’t need to know everyone—you just need to earn trust and prove expertise.

Public-Private Partnerships: The Future of Development?

How Hudson Investing makes new construction deals pencil in 2025 and beyond.
Why cities are partnering with operators—and how that benefits your returns.
The real risk difference between building new vs. buying value-add.

Why the Midwest Is Still Winning

Kent breaks down why Midwest markets like Indianapolis and Fort Wayne are outperforming.
Supply constraints = stronger rent growth and less risk—here’s where to look.
Why Midwest deals may be boring… but boring works.

Connect with Kent

https://www.kentritter.com

Instagram

Ritter on Real Estate Podcast

Youtube

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session491/

MB490: $300M Investor's 10 Rules to Get Your Money Right - With Michael Blank

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 01:00:00 -0400

Most people are playing the wrong money game—trading time for income, saving their way to retirement, and hoping it adds up by 65. In this episode, $300M multifamily investor Michael Blank shares the 10 money rules that helped him escape the rat race and build scalable, passive wealth through real estate. You’ll learn why flipping houses, single-family rentals, and even high-paying jobs won’t get you free—and what to focus on instead. If you’re serious about using multifamily to take control of your time and income, these rules will reset how you think about money forever.

Head over to https://thefreedompodcast.com/500 to submit for a chance to win free merch and be highlighted in episode 500!!!

Key Takeaways

Michael’s 10 Rules to Get Your Money Right, plus:

What’s Really Broken About Retirement (and How to Fix It)

Why the "work till you're 65" model no longer works
How to reframe freedom so it actually feels fulfilling
What to focus on instead of sitting on a beach forever

The Math Behind Why You’re Still Stuck

How traditional saving and investing keeps you locked in the rat race
What most six-figure earners misunderstand about wealth
A smarter way to create income that doesn’t depend on your time

How Most Real Estate Strategies Still Trap You

Why flipping and single-family homes rarely lead to freedom
The real reason those deals feel like progress—but aren’t
The asset class that scales income and time

One Number That Changes Everything

How to figure out the income you need to quit your job
Why your “rat race number” is more powerful than your net worth
How lowering it can make freedom come faster than you think

How to Build Wealth Without Using Your Own Money

The one mindset shift that unlocks serious scale
How first-time investors raise $500K+—even with no experience
What kind of partnerships make it possible (and how to find them)

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session490/

MB489: Keep More. Pay Less. Scale Faster. How Smart Investors Save Six Figures on Taxes with Cost Segregation - With Sean Graham

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 01:00:00 -0400

If you’re serious about building wealth through real estate, you can’t afford to ignore the tax side. In this episode, CPA and active investor Sean Graham breaks down how cost segregation and bonus depreciation can save you (and your investors) tens or even hundreds of thousands in taxes—without changing your investment strategy. We cover how to use cost seg the right way, why most CPAs are doing it wrong, and what high earners need to know about the latest tax bill that could bring back 100% bonus depreciation. Whether you're a GP looking to raise smarter or an LP trying to boost after-tax returns, this episode is non-negotiable.

Key Takeaways

What Cost Segregation Actually Does for You

Reclassifies components of a property to accelerate depreciation over 5–15 years instead of 27.5 or 39.
Allows investors to take massive deductions in year one—sometimes more than the cash they put into the deal.
Creates phantom losses on K-1s that can offset other passive income or gains.

Bonus Depreciation: What It Is, and Why It Matters

100% bonus depreciation (introduced in 2017) allows investors to deduct qualifying property in year one.
It's phased down since 2023 but may return under new legislation.
Huge benefit for both LPs and GPs—particularly when paired with proper tax strategy.

Using Cost Seg to Raise Capital More Effectively

Smart GPs use depreciation estimates during the raise to attract savvy investors.
Many LPs care more about the tax benefits than the projected cash flow.
For deals over $1M, cost seg should be factored into your underwriting and pitch.

The “Look-Back” Strategy for Missed Depreciation

Allows owners to retroactively apply cost segregation—even years after purchase.
No need to amend prior tax returns; benefits can be taken in the current year.
Especially powerful when strategic timing aligns with real estate professional status.

Avoiding Common CPA Mistakes

Many CPAs aren’t familiar with real estate—leading to missed deductions and bad advice.
Make sure your tax pro understands real estate-specific strategies like bonus depreciation, short-term rental loopholes, and REPS.
Ask the right questions: Do they know how to handle depreciation recapture? Real estate professional status? IRA investing?

How to Work with a Cost Segregation Firm the Right Way

Involve a cost seg firm early—before closing—so you can plan ahead and market benefits to investors.
Studies typically cost $5K–$10K, but often result in six-figure tax savings.
Smaller properties can use a “condensed engineering study” for reduced fees without sacrificing IRS compliance.

Connect with Sean

MavenCostSeg.com/Blank

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session489/

MB488: How to Use Your Retirement Funds to Invest in Apartments (No Wall Street or UBIT) - With Damion Lupo

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 01:00:00 -0400

Don’t forget to grab your free book! www.TheMichaelBlank.com/QRP

Most people don’t know this—but you can invest your IRA or 401(k) in real estate instead of leaving it trapped in mutual funds. In this episode, I’m joined by Damion Lupo, founder of eQRP, to explain exactly how to unlock your retirement savings and use them to invest in apartments, storage, and more. We walk through the process step-by-step, dispel common myths, and show you how to avoid one of the biggest tax traps most investors don’t even see coming: UBIT. Whether you’re a passive investor or a GP raising capital, this is a must-listen.

Key Takeaways

Why Most Investors Don’t Know About This

Financial advisors don’t promote these options because they lose fees when you take control.
Most investors have old 401(k)s or IRAs they’ve forgotten about—but those funds are eligible for self-direction.
Online platforms like Schwab and Fidelity won’t show you the option to invest in real estate—you have to know to ask.

How Self-Directed Accounts Actually Work

Self-directed IRAs and solo 401(k)s give you full control—you can invest in real estate, crypto, gold, and more.
The right setup gives you checkbook control and removes delays caused by custodians.
Solo 401(k)s (like EQRPs) offer faster transactions, better flexibility, and fewer limitations than traditional IRAs.

The UBIT Tax Trap—and How to Avoid It

Using leverage in real estate deals inside a self-directed IRA can trigger UBIT—up to 40% in surprise taxes.
Solo 401(k)s are exempt from UBIT, even in leveraged deals.
You can convert from an IRA to a solo 401(k) before the deal sells to avoid the tax completely.

Smart Strategies for Passive and Active Investors

Passive investors can use these accounts to invest in syndications—earning tax-free or tax-deferred returns.
Active investors (GPs) can raise more capital by educating others on how to invest through their retirement accounts.
Damion’s team offers tools like books, webinars, and white-glove onboarding to help GPs guide investors through the process.

Rules, Limits, and Legacy Planning

You can’t use these accounts to buy personal assets, rehab your own property, or benefit directly from the investment.
You can borrow up to $50K from your solo 401(k) for any reason and pay yourself back—with interest you choose.
Setting up retirement accounts for parents or family members can create powerful tax-free legacy wealth.
Roth solo 401(k)s allow real estate investing with leverage and no taxes on gains—making them the most powerful tool in the tax code.

Connect with Damion Lupo

GET A FREE BOOK www.TheMichaelBlank.com/QRP

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session488/

MB487: How This Deal Maker Scaled to 700 Units and Raised $20M—With Chad Schieler

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 01:00:00 -0400

In just a few years, Chad Schieler went from zero to over 700 units, ditching his high-paying W2 job to build a real syndication business from scratch. And he did it the hard way - solo, self-funded, and battle-tested.

In this episode, Michael Blank sits down with Chad to unpack the gritty, unfiltered truth behind the rise of Focus Capital. They dive deep into the growing pains of scaling fast - partnership failures, capital raising fears, management misfires, and what it really takes to build a machine that lasts.

If you think you’re ready to go full-time, this episode will either snap you out of it - or show you the way forward.

Head over to https://thefreedompodcast.com/500 to submit for a chance to win free merch and be highlighted in episode 500!!!

Key Takeaways

From W2 to 700+ Units: Why Chad Walked Away

Built a career in credit card processing—but hit a wall with taxes and purpose.
Real estate started as a tax strategy and turned into a full-blown mission.
Why chasing a deeper “why” made walking away from comfort worth it.

The Truth About Partnerships

Chad’s first syndicated deal looked perfect—until it nearly fell apart.
Why being $4K short led him to take control of the entire business model.
How too many “chiefs” in asset management created chaos—and the fix.

Raising Capital When It Doesn’t Come Naturally

Chad self-funded his first four deals—then hit a ceiling.
The mental shift that helped him want to raise capital.
How his best capital raiser came straight from his LP base.

Scaling a Real Business (Without Burning Out)

The struggle of hiring when revenue is lumpy—and what worked for Focus Capital.
Why Chad hires 12 months ahead of revenue (and how it paid off).
The non-negotiables that protect his time and family life.

When Bigger is Actually Easier

Why 100+ unit properties are less stressful than small ones.
The mistake most investors make with property management on smaller deals.
How Chad’s early inspection and financing mistakes shaped his future deals.

Connect with Chad

Visit Focus Capital

chad@focuscapital.com

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session487/

MB486: How to Identify a Good Market for Real Estate Investing (And Where We’re Buying in 2025)

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 01:00:00 -0400

This is one of the most tactical, eye-opening conversations we’ve had on market selection.

Market selection can make or break your deal before you ever sign a contract. And right now, it’s not just about job growth or population trends anymore. In this episode, Michael Blank is joined by Andrew Meyers, Director of Acquisitions at Nighthawk Equity, to reveal what actually matters when choosing a market—and why most investors are looking at the wrong data.

They break down the real drivers of rent growth, how to avoid buying in overheated metros, and what most people overlook that leads to underperforming deals. Plus, Andrew shares where Nighthawk is actively investing right now—and why.

Key Takeaways

Why Absorption Is the New KPI

It’s not just about growth—it’s about who’s filling those units.
Learn why absorption is the single most overlooked factor in market due diligence.
Discover how overbuilt markets tank B-class rents—and how to spot it before you buy.

The Hidden Danger in “Hot Markets”

Everyone loved Phoenix, Austin, and Atlanta—until rent drops hit hard.
Understand why too much supply—even in fast-growing cities—kills performance.
Learn how to read between the lines of growth headlines to spot real risk.

How to Vet a Submarket Like a Pro

Why Carroll County in Georgia is outperforming—but other Atlanta submarkets are crashing.
Learn how zoning moratoriums, new construction trends, and crime rates quietly impact your bottom line.
The exact reports and relationships you need to dig deeper than “market averages.”

Where Nighthawk Is Buying Right Now

Atlanta remains the #1 market due to scale, broker relationships, and submarket knowledge.
Huntsville, AL is rising fast thanks to job growth and lower institutional competition.
Hear what tertiary markets are on Nighthawk’s radar—and why most operators overlook them.

Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask

Who’s actually on the ground executing the business plan—and what relationships do they have?
How well does the operator know this specific submarket (not just the metro)?
Are their underwriting assumptions conservative—or fantasy spreadsheets?
Learn the red flags that reveal when a sponsor is guessing instead of grounded.

Connect with Andrew

investors@nighthawkequity.com

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session486/

MB485: The Real Reason You’re Not Scaling — The Psychology of Impossible Goals - With Dr. Benjamin Hardy

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 01:00:00 -0400

If you’re trying to scale your real estate business and still asking “How do I do this?”, you’re already falling behind. In this episode, Dr. Benjamin Hardy, author of 10X Is Easier Than 2X and The Science of Scaling, explains why success in multifamily hinges on shifting from "how" to "who." Michael and Ben dig into why most investors get stuck on the wrong path, and how committing to a bold vision — even without knowing the entire roadmap — is the real starting point. This episode is a must-listen for six-figure earners stuck in the single-family grind, trying to leap into commercial real estate and financial freedom.

Key Takeaways

1. Why Your 10-Year Plan Is Holding You Back

Most investors set conservative goals based on their current capacity.
A 10-year retirement plan with single-family homes isn't just slow — it’s likely broken.
Reframe your goal: what would it take to become financially free in 12 months?
When the timeframe compresses, the current strategy breaks — and that’s the point.

2. The "Who Not How" Principle for Real Estate Scaling

Multifamily investing isn’t about doing more — it’s about doing different.
Instead of figuring out every step, ask “Who already knows how to do this?”
The right team — mentors, capital partners, deal finders — collapses the learning curve.
Syndication is the ultimate “who not how” structure: it’s a team sport.

3. The Psychology of Commitment and Belief

You won’t pursue what you don’t believe is possible.
Small “micro-commitments” — like booking a strategy call or analyzing your first deal — build belief.
Commit to the outcome (financial freedom), not the tactic (buying rentals).
Reverse-engineering from your end goal leads to radically different decisions.

4. Letting Go of the Path That Got You Here

Your current strategy won’t get you to your next level.
If you're clinging to rentals, flips, or even a high-paying job — you're on the wrong path.
Letting go feels like quitting — but it's often the gateway to real progress.
Ask: “What’s the opportunity cost of staying stuck?”

5. Dr. Hardy’s Framework from The Science of Scaling

Identify your "floor" — the level where you're currently stuck — and why it's limiting.
The most successful entrepreneurs redesign their systems, teams, and mindsets to scale.
Scaling isn’t just a process — it’s a mindset of focusing on fewer things, done better.

6. Multifamily as the Ideal Vehicle for Scaling

Single-family strategies are too slow, too small, and too dependent on your time.
Multifamily offers higher leverage, scalable income, and team-based execution.
The joint venture nature of syndication makes scaling practical, even if you’re starting out.
The ability to raise money or partner with operators creates fast pathways to GP status.

Connect with Dr. Benjamin Hardy

Get your free copy of the Science of Scaling audiobook

https://scaling.com/

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session485/

MB484: The Asset Class Most Multifamily Investors Overlook—That Could Help You Scale Faster - With Cody Payne

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 01:00:00 -0400

Small Bay Industrial (a.k.a. Flex Space) wasn’t on your radar—and for good reason.

But what if the most overlooked asset class in commercial real estate turned out to be one of the most profitable? In this episode, Cody Payne, SVP at Colliers, breaks down why Small Bay Flex Industrial is quietly exploding—and why more active and passive investors are taking notice. Cody shares how he transitioned from leasing to owning, how syndication plays a role in the space, and why this niche might outperform retail and office over the next decade. Whether you’re looking to diversify your portfolio or find a less management-intensive asset, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.

Key Takeaways

Why Flex Industrial Is Heating Up

The asset class has evolved: from basic metal garages to glass-fronted multi-use spaces.
Demand is surging as small businesses, gyms, e-commerce, and retail users flood in.
Triple-net leases and low tenant improvement costs make this a capital-efficient play.

How to Add Real Value with Small Bay Assets

Simple cosmetic upgrades (like storefront glass) can attract higher-paying tenants.
Reconfiguring larger units into smaller ones can boost PSF rent.
Strategic side yards and outdoor storage add ancillary income.

Investor Returns: What to Expect

Typical stabilized deals offer 8–10% cash-on-cash returns with low capex.
Value-add plays or development deals can push IRRs significantly higher.
Cap rates range from 6–8%, depending on market and quality.

Management Made Simple

Triple-net leases reduce headaches—tenants handle their own maintenance.
Very few after-hours calls; most businesses operate during daytime hours.
Easy to find third-party managers who understand this asset class.

Syndication in Small Bay: A New Frontier

Cody’s early deals involved rolling his broker fee into equity—low-risk entry point.
Syndication works well, especially for stabilized assets or light value-add.
Investors like the stability, tenant diversity, and ease of management.

Navigating the Market: Deal Flow and Financing

Good deal flow in most metros if your buy box is realistic (e.g., 7–8% cap).
Financing is accessible: 25-year terms, 65% LTV, and ~6.25% interest.
Banks used to avoid this asset class—now they’re chasing it.

Connect with Cody

Website

Book: Flex Space Domination

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session484/

MB483: 33,000 Units Later: What Smart Passive Investors Really Want—and How Great Operators Deliver It - With Jeff Gleiberman

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 01:00:00 -0400

What does it take to scale from a 38-unit syndication to 33,000 units across six states—and still never lose investor capital? Jeff Gleiberman of MG Properties breaks it down. In this episode, Jeff shares the core principles that helped his family-run firm grow into one of the top 50 apartment owners in the U.S. You'll hear how they’ve weathered multiple market cycles, why they’re buying newer assets right now, and how disciplined underwriting, fixed-rate debt, and vertical integration have become their unfair advantages. Whether you're raising capital, comparing asset classes, or trying to read the market—this episode is required listening.

Key Takeaways

From Family Syndication to Institutional Scale

Started with a single 38-unit deal and scaled to 33,000 units over 30+ years.
Built trust and momentum through word of mouth and disciplined execution.
Added institutional capital partners while staying grounded in syndication fundamentals.
Grew from a home office to over 1,000 employees with fully integrated operations.

How MG Navigates Market Cycles

Survived and thrived through the S&L crisis, dot-com bust, GFC, COVID, and today's rate shock.
Adapted strategy for each cycle—moving from value-add to core-plus when needed.
Buys below replacement cost today to minimize downside and maximize long-term upside.
Maintains focus on fixed-rate, long-term debt and low leverage to protect investor capital.

Why Vertical Integration is a Competitive Advantage

In-house property management, asset management, and construction management from day one.
Enables real-time decision-making, tighter expense control, and stronger performance in down markets.
Allowed the firm to pivot quickly during COVID and deliver consistent returns.

How to Attract Serious Capital (Without Chasing High IRRs)

Always invests 10–20% of their own capital into each deal—creating strong alignment.
Focuses on risk-adjusted returns, not marketing inflated projections.
Educates investors on cycles, deal structure, and realistic expectations to build long-term trust.

Current Strategy: Core-Plus Over Value-Add

Acquiring newer, well-located properties at 30–40% discounts to replacement cost.
Cash flow is lower today—but risk is also lower, and long-term upside is strong.
Value-add deals don’t pencil right now due to rent compression and renovation risk—but they will again.

The Discipline Behind $1.8B in Acquisitions (In a Down Market)

Maintains a consistent buy box and underwriting discipline—despite competition and volatility.
Relies on lender relationships, low-cost insurance, and scale advantages to stay competitive.
Sticks to one asset class—multifamily—and executes at a high level, deal after deal.

Connect with Jeff

mgproperties.com

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session483/

MB482: How I’d Raise Capital Today Without a Track Record: What Actually Works (and What Doesn’t)

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 01:00:00 -0400

If you think you need experience, deals, or wealthy connections to raise capital… think again. In this episode, Michael Blank walks through exactly how first-time investors are raising $500K to $1M in 60 days—even without a track record. You’ll learn how to shift your mindset, start conversations without being salesy, and build unstoppable momentum using the relationships you already have. This is the roadmap for raising money as a beginner.

Key Takeaways

Why You Don’t Need Experience to Raise Capital

Stock market investors are actively looking for alternatives—you just don’t know it yet.
You’re providing value by giving them access to real estate they can’t buy on their own.
It’s not about your experience—it’s about your ability to build trust and communicate.

How to Find People With Money (Hint: You Already Know Them)

Start with your existing social circles—friends, coworkers, clubs, sports, and church.
Use referrals to expand your network without ever running out of leads.
Tap your old contacts with a simple, authentic re-engagement email.

What to Say (and NOT Say) to Potential Investors

Don’t “pitch” people—just have intentional conversations about investing.
Use curiosity to guide the discussion naturally toward real estate.
Frame yourself as someone offering value, not asking for a favor.

Why One-on-One Works Better Than Social Media (at First)

Most beginners fail online because they don’t know what their investor wants yet.
You’ll build confidence, language, and momentum faster through real conversations.
$1M+ raises are happening every day without a single post on social.

What to Do If You’re Not a Natural Capital Raiser

Deal finders and capital raisers need each other—build partnerships to fill the gaps.
Learn the fundamentals, then specialize based on your strengths.
Being in the right community makes these partnerships effortless.

The Simple System That Helps Beginners Raise $500K–$1M Fast

Our students go from zero experience to full commitments in under 60 days.
The key is shifting your mindset and mastering a few proven scripts.
You don’t need everyone to say yes—you just need to start.

Connect with GUEST

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session482/

MB481: 50 Rapid-Fire Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask (And Every Active Investor Must Answer)

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 01:00:00 -0400

What should you really ask before wiring $100K into a multifamily deal? In this special episode, Michael sits down with Nighthawk’s Garrett Lynch and Drew Kniffin to run through 50 of the most important questions every passive investor should be asking—and every active investor should know how to answer.

From deal structure and cash flow mechanics to team accountability, tax strategy, and risk mitigation, this is your behind-the-scenes guide to how Nighthawk operates—and how to evaluate any syndicator with clarity and confidence. Whether you’re an LP looking to invest smarter or an aspiring operator trying to earn trust, this episode is required listening.

Key Takeaways

50 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask (And Every Active Investor Must Answer), including:

Nighthawk’s Track Record and Operating Philosophy

How Nighthawk got started, how many deals they’ve done, and what makes their model different
What happens when a deal doesn’t go to plan—and how the team responds
Who’s on the core team and how key decisions are made (especially in tough markets)
Why vertical integration and boots-on-the-ground operations give them an edge

Understanding Returns, Distributions & Deal Structure

What kind of returns to expect—and how preferred vs. total returns actually work
When investors get paid, what happens during a refinance, and how long deals are held
What happens if the property underperforms or market conditions shift
Why Nighthawk doesn’t do capital calls—and how they plan for uncertainty

Syndications vs. Other Investment Models

The difference between syndications, REITs, and funds
What LPs actually own, how deals are structured legally, and what kind of control (or not) they have
How profit splits and operator compensation align with investor outcomes
Minimum investment amounts and what the onboarding process looks like

The Passive Investing Mindset

The key mindset shift every new LP needs to make
Multifamily vs. flips, STRs, and self-storage—what makes multifamily the superior play
How to think about diversification across deals and sponsors
What to do if you’re nervous—or your spouse isn’t on board yet

Taxes, Depreciation & IRAs

How multifamily syndications deliver major tax benefits (even on paper)
What bonus depreciation is and how it offsets income
When to expect your K-1 and how IRA investing works (including UBIT considerations)
What happens tax-wise at refinance or sale—and how to defer gains via 1031s

How to Vet Deals and Sponsors Like a Pro

What to look for in underwriting: cap rates, expense ratios, rent growth assumptions
The importance of fixed-rate debt, cash reserves, and risk-adjusted returns
How to ask the right questions—even if you’re not an expert
Why the best investors don’t “return shop”—they evaluate the whole picture

Connect with Nighthawk Equity

Take the Free Mini-Course at NighthawkEquity.com

Schedule a Call & Join Our Investor Club

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session481/

MB480: From Solo Deals to 1,000+ Units: The Mindset and Partnerships That Changed Everything - With Eric Nelson

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 01:00:00 -0400

Eric Nelson thought buying one rental a year would lead to financial freedom. But after years of grinding, he realized he was just building another job. In this episode, Eric breaks down how he shifted from single-family rentals to a 1,000+ unit multifamily portfolio—and why mindset, mentorship, and the right partnerships made all the difference.

We dig into the painful lessons, the strategic pivots, and the exact steps that helped Eric quit his W-2, move his family to Spain, and build a business that supports his life. If you’re trying to scale—or stuck doing it all yourself—this is the episode you’ve been waiting for.

Key Takeaways

Why “One Rental a Year” Doesn’t Work

Eric’s early plan: 10 houses in 10 years = early retirement
What actually happened: no scale, no freedom, no time
Why single-family rentals didn’t deliver the cash flow he expected

The Case for Multifamily Over Rentals

How one vacancy kills cash flow in SFR—but barely moves the needle in MF
Why multifamily is less emotional, more predictable, and built for scale
The moment Eric realized apartments were actually less risky

How Mentorship Accelerated His Success

What changed when Eric hired a coach—and why he says it was essential
Why every successful syndicator he knows did the same
The critical role of KP partners and advisory teams in getting your first deal done

Raising Capital as a Service, Not a Favor

How Eric overcame his fear of asking friends and family to invest
Why capital raising is about helping others—not begging for money
What he tells high-income earners unsure where to place their capital

Why Right Now Is a Great Time to Get In

Why fewer buyers and better pricing make today a rare opportunity
How Eric is buying deals in today’s market—and what’s changed since 2021
What he tells LPs who are frozen by fear or waiting on the sidelines

From Hamster Wheel to Freedom in Spain

How Eric went from overworked engineer to living abroad with his family
What it actually looks like to build a business around your life
Why he’s focused on sustainable, strategic growth—not hyper-scaling

Connect with Eric

Instagram

Wild Oak Capital

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session480/

MB479: The Real Path to Wealth: From Flips to Commercial Real Estate - With Paul Moore

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 01:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Michael Blank is joined by seasoned investor Paul Moore, founder of Wellings Capital, to unpack the journey from flipping houses and chasing every real estate strategy… to raising over $200 million in capital and building a fund-based business that finally delivered real wealth. Paul shares how a single moment with a mentor forced him to stop winging it and build a true capital-raising system.

They dive deep into how capital raisers can grow with or without a deal, the myths about passive income, and why commercial real estate is fundamentally different (and more powerful) than residential. This episode is a masterclass in focus, mindset shifts, and breaking through plateaus by specializing.

Key Takeaways:

Passive Income Is a Lie—Until You Do This: Both Paul and Michael learned the hard way that flipping houses isn’t passive—and the real path to financial freedom is cash-flowing commercial assets.
Focus Beats Hustle: Paul was stuck chasing inconsistent deals until he narrowed in on raising capital and built a repeatable system to attract investors.
Raising Capital Is a Skill, Not a Gift: Whether you do it 1-on-1 or through content marketing, anyone can learn how to raise millions—if they follow a proven playbook.
Why the "Old Boys Club" Ignores You: Breaking into commercial real estate requires more than desire—you need credibility, partners, and a real strategy to be taken seriously.
Commercial Real Estate Is Based on Math, Not Hype: Unlike residential, you can force appreciation through net income. That means you have control over value.
The Fund Manager Model: Paul explains how capital raisers can scale faster—and stay compliant—by launching their own funds and partnering with proven operators.

Connect with Paul Moore:

Website: wellingscapital.com
Resources: Free eBooks on multifamily, self-storage, and mobile home park investing → wellingscapital.com/resources
Books: Author of The Perfect Investment, Storing Up Profits, and Warren Buffett’s Rules for Real Estate Investors
Social Media: Find Paul on LinkedIn, YouTube, or search for Paul Moore Wellings Capital
Philanthropy: Support his anti-human trafficking work at aimfree.org

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session479/

MB478: Retirement Is Stupid: 3 Myths That Are Stealing Your Freedom (And What to Do Instead)

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 01:00:00 -0400

Forget what you’ve been told about retirement. In this episode, Michael Blank breaks down why chasing the dream of sitting on a beach at 65 is not just outdated—it’s dangerous. He unpacks the flawed math behind 401(k)s, FIRE, and single-family rentals, and lays out a smarter, faster path to freedom through multifamily syndications. If you're a high-income earner chasing control over your time, this episode will reframe how you think about “retirement” and show you how to buy your time back—on your terms.

Key Takeaways

Retirement Is Not the Goal—Freedom Is

Traditional retirement means doing nothing, and that’s not fulfilling for most people.
After a short break, high performers crave impact, purpose, and productivity.
Financial freedom gives you options—to work, to rest, to choose how you live.

The Math of Retirement Doesn’t Work

The 4% Rule requires you to save $3M+ for $10K/month in passive income—before inflation.
With inflation, that number balloons to $7.3M to maintain your current lifestyle.
Very few people are saving $2K–$15K/month for 10–30 years consistently.

Why the FIRE Movement Falls Short

FIRE (Financial Independence, Retire Early) demands extreme frugality—up to 70% savings rates.
It's built on sacrifice and still relies on fragile stock market assumptions.
Once “retired,” most FIRE followers still live lean—without true freedom or fulfillment.

Why Rentals Are Better—But Still Not Enough

Even buying one rental per year doesn’t get you to $10K/month cash flow fast.
50 rentals = $10K/month at $200/month per property—a huge operational burden.
BRRRR and flips can help, but they’re still slow, time-intensive, and hard to scale.

Multifamily Syndications: The Fast Track to Freedom

Acquisition fees from one deal can replace your income and give you a 12-month runway.
Syndications have multiple profit centers: fees, cash flow, equity, and backend profits.
With the right coaching, you can quit your job within 1–2 years—not 30.

Break the “DIY” Trap: Why Coaching Matters

Most people try to figure it out alone and stay stuck for years.
Multifamily syndications are a team sport—scale comes from partnerships, not hustle.
Without a roadmap, you’ll hit a ceiling fast or never start at all.

Connect with Nighthawk Equity

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session478/

MB 477: From House Hack to 350 Units: How to Achieve Financial Freedom in a Tenant Friendly State - With Andrew Freed

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 01:00:00 -0400

How do you scale to 350 multifamily units in a high-regulation, tenant-friendly market like Massachusetts—starting with a single house hack and a HELOC?

In this episode, Andrew Freed breaks down how he did exactly that. He shares how he transitioned from a high-paying W-2 to full-time real estate investor, why he leaned into a market most investors avoid, and how strategic partnerships and capital raising unlocked serious growth. You’ll learn what actually worked, what didn’t, and how Andrew built a business that now self-manages 250+ units—all without starting rich or flashy.

If you're serious about scaling and want a real-world blueprint from someone who's done it in a tough market, this one's worth your time.

Key Takeaways

Turning a W-2 Into a Real Estate Exit Plan

Why Andrew stayed at his W-2 way longer than he needed to
The mastermind moment that finally pushed him to quit
How he 5X’d his income after going all-in

How to Go from One House Hack to Hundreds of Units

The simple playbook he used to scale with zero previous experience
Why he ditched the “one duplex a year” plan and went big
How small, boring properties (2–30 units) became his superpower

Raising Capital Without Feeling Salesy or Sleazy

How Andrew raised over $20M—even as an introvert
The mindset shift that made all the difference
What NOT to do when asking people to invest

Investing Where No One Else Wants To

Why he’s buying in Massachusetts—and crushing it
How Section 8 became a secret weapon
His strategy for thriving in “landlord-unfriendly” markets

Partnering the Right Way (So You Don’t Get Burned)

How to structure roles, control the money, and build trust
Why partnerships skyrocketed his growth—and what to watch out for
His “video game” approach to business (seriously)

Connect with Andrew

https://freedommanagement.net/

Facebook

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session477/

MB476: The Capital Raising Playbook: How Marcin Drozdz Raised $100M+ to Scale Multifamily with Other People’s Money in Tough Markets - With Marcin Drozdz

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 01:00:00 -0400

In this episode of The Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing podcast, Marcin Drozdz breaks down the exact playbook he used to raise over $100M for multifamily deals—even in challenging market conditions. He shares why multifamily remains the smartest path to financial freedom, how to raise capital without prior experience, and what new investors must focus on to close their first (or next) deal faster. If you want to scale with other people’s money and build lasting wealth, this episode gives you the blueprint.

Key Takeaways

How Marcin Built a $100M+ Capital Raising Machine

Focused on relationships, trust, and long-term partnerships—not flashy sales pitches.
Built credibility without relying on a massive personal portfolio upfront.
Scaled by consistently delivering value to investors first.

Why Multifamily Beats Other Real Estate Strategies

Offers superior scalability compared to flips, single-family rentals, and STRs.
Combines cash flow, appreciation, and tax advantages into one asset.
Remains resilient through recessions and high-interest rate cycles.

How to Raise Capital Without a Track Record

You don’t need your own cash—you need the right frameworks for raising it.
Start building soft commitments from investors before your first deal.
How to position yourself confidently even as a newer operator.

Avoiding the Biggest Mistakes New Investors Make

Why waiting for the “perfect deal” or “perfect timing” is a recipe for failure.
The danger of trying to figure it out alone without mentorship or a proven system.
How successful investors create momentum by taking imperfect action.

Marcin’s Advice for Scaling a Real Estate Portfolio

Focus on building a strong personal brand and investor network early.
Surround yourself with experienced operators and communities that accelerate your learning.
Play the long game: Reputation and relationships compound faster than anything else.

Connect with Marcin

Download Marcin's "Unlimited Investor Leads" Book

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session476/

MB475: The One Strategy That Quietly Built Generational Wealth – With Ben Reinberg

Mon, 09 Jun 2025 01:00:00 -0400

In this powerful episode, Michael Blank sits down with Ben Reinberg, founder of Alliance CGC, to break down how he built a $500M+ commercial real estate portfolio—starting with a 95,000 sq. ft. industrial building at just 23 years old. Ben shares how he raised capital with no track record, the key mindset shifts that fueled his growth, and why personal development is the hidden engine behind building wealth.

You’ll also learn why commercial real estate—not single-family rentals—is the path most millionaires quietly use to generate generational wealth, and how to shift your focus (and comfort zone) to play a much bigger game.

Key Takeaways

Study Wealth, Not Just Real Estate: Ben skipped the rental game by studying how wealthy people actually build wealth—with hard assets like commercial real estate.
You Don’t Need to Know Everything—Just Build the Right Team: From asset management to SEC compliance, syndication is a team sport. You can go bigger by not going solo.
Raising Capital Is Not About Sales—It’s About Value & Relationships: Ben started with no fear, built credibility through transparency and strong returns, and gave away the lion’s share of the deal early on to build trust.
Personal Growth = Business Growth: Meditation, mentors, and emotional intelligence aren't optional—they're what allow you to lead, communicate better, and scale sustainably.
Hard Assets Win Long-Term: Whether it's medical office, multifamily, or industrial, Ben believes investing in tangible assets is the key to recession-resistance and generational wealth.

Connect with Ben Reinberg

Website: AllianceCGC.com – Learn about his company and accredited investment opportunities
Personal Site: BenReinberg.com – Buy his book "Hard Assets for Hard Times", explore wealth-building courses, and watch his TV show Obsessed
Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn: Just search Ben Reinberg on your favorite platform
Book: Hard Assets for Hard Times – A visual, actionable blueprint to start building your own real estate empire

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session475/

MB474: Turning a $50K Investment into $750M in Acquisitions in 7 Years – With Rob Beardsley

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 01:00:00 -0400

Rob Beardsley didn’t flip houses. He didn’t save up for years. Instead, he went straight from college to commercial real estate—and scaled to $750M in acquisitions in just seven years. In this episode, Rob breaks down how he used partnerships, mindset, and relentless focus to overcome limited capital, lack of experience, and a steep learning curve. You'll learn what it really takes to scale a multifamily business from zero, how to raise capital without a track record, and why operating in today’s market is the ultimate advantage. If you’re serious about building a business—not just doing deals—this is a can’t-miss episode.

Key Takeaways

From College Kid to $750M Operator

Why Rob skipped flipping and went straight to syndications
How growing up in a struggling real estate household shaped his long-term mindset
What triggered his obsession with scaling—before he ever bought a deal

How to Raise Capital Without a Track Record

Why being naïve can actually help early investors take action
The moment Rob realized capital raising is sales and marketing
How he overcame his fear of “selling” and built a system for trust and credibility

The Power of Partnerships in Multifamily

Why going it alone almost never works—and what to do instead
How Rob structured his first deals with more experienced partners
The myth of “less equity” when you partner—and how the pie gets bigger

What Most Investors Get Wrong About Scaling

The difference between doing deals and building a real business
How Rob built Lone Star Capital from a two-man shop to a vertically integrated firm
The right first hire if you want to get out of spreadsheets and grow

Lessons from $750M in Deals (and What Rob Would Do Differently)

The #1 thing he wishes he knew before his first deal
Why he avoids C-class properties despite their “better returns” on paper
How less leverage and better locations create more stability—and scale

What It Takes to Succeed in Today’s Market

Why flat or down markets are the ultimate test of operational excellence
How Rob stayed active—even without new acquisitions—by doubling down on systems and team
The creative strategies he uses to stay top-of-mind with investors between deals

Connect with Rob

https://lscre.com/

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session474/

MB473: The 3 Myths of Apartment Building Investing That Are Holding You Back From Doing Your First Deal

Mon, 26 May 2025 01:00:00 -0400

Think you need years of experience or loads of cash to invest in multifamily? Think again. In this solo episode, Michael Blank busts the two biggest myths that keep people from getting started in apartment syndications: lack of experience and lack of capital. He shares real-life strategies for building a winning team, raising money as a beginner, and scaling fast—even if you're starting from scratch.

Key Takeaways:

Experience ≠ Access: Multifamily brokers care more about your team’s track record than yours.
Build the Right Team: Partner with experienced operators, lenders, and property managers to gain instant credibility.
Capital Raising Is a Learnable Skill: You don’t need your own money—just the ability to educate and connect with potential investors.
Focus on “Who,” Not “How”: Don’t try to do everything. Find partners who fill your gaps.
Anyone Can Start: With the right mindset and system, beginners have raised millions—even on their first deal

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session473/

MB471: The Property Management Mistakes That Are Killing Your Cash Flow (and How to Fix Them) - With Robert Parmar

Mon, 12 May 2025 01:00:00 -0400

If you think property management is just about collecting rent and fixing toilets, you're leaving serious money on the table.

In this episode, I’m sitting down with Robert Parmar to talk about how the best operators are using systems and tech to run their properties more profitably — and why poor management is the fastest way to kill your financial freedom.

Robert’s pulling back the curtain on the biggest mistakes property managers make (and what it’s really costing you), the secret sauce that separates good from great, and the practical systems you can use to finally step out of the day-to-day — without sacrificing profits.

Whether you're managing yourself or outsourcing it, if you want more cash flow, less stress, and more freedom, you can't afford to miss this one.

Key Takeaways

Leveraging Technology for Better Remote Management

Why top property managers are heavily investing in tech tools and automation.
How the right systems can reduce vacancy, boost cash flow, and create a "set-it-and-forget-it" ownership experience.
Examples of technology Robert uses to deliver better tenant experiences and operational efficiencies.

Biggest Mistakes Property Managers Make

The "set it and forget it" myth: why poor communication is the fastest way to lose owners and tenants.
Overlooking preventative maintenance and its long-term cost.
The importance of hiring based on cultural fit—not just experience.

What Makes a Great Property Manager Stand Out

Proactive communication and transparent reporting as a key differentiator.
Why having a true investor mindset (not just a service mindset) sets the best managers apart.
The power of KPIs: which numbers your property manager must track to ensure you're hitting your investment targets.

Property Management Best Practices that Crush

Structured onboarding processes for new properties to set expectations early.
Regular financial and operational reviews (not just quarterly).
Strategic tenant retention tactics that reduce turnover and boost lifetime value.

Connect with Robert

rparmar@smfield.com

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session471/

MB470: Why Multifamily Is the Fastest Path to Financial Freedom - With Michael Blank

Mon, 05 May 2025 01:00:00 -0400

In this solo episode, Michael Blank shares the raw truth behind why he stopped flipping houses and made the game-changing leap into multifamily investing. He breaks down the exact moment that shift happened, how it transformed his life and finances, and why multifamily syndication is hands-down the fastest, safest, and most scalable path to financial freedom with real estate.

Key Takeaways:

Flipping Wasn’t Freedom: Even successful flipping felt like another job with no scalability or passive income.
Multifamily = Mailbox Money: One 12-unit deal opened Michael’s eyes to the power of passive income.
Syndications Create Wealth Fast: With acquisition fees and cash flow, you can quit your job after just 1–2 deals.
Multifamily Is Low Risk: Stronger tenant diversification and long-term demand make it more recession-proof than single family.
You Don’t Need Experience or Cash: You can start by building a team and learning to raise capital.

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session470/

MB472: How Two Newbies Closed a $4.6M Deal with No Experience – With Ryan Kindred and Russ Cannon

Sun, 04 May 2025 01:00:00 -0400

In this episode of the Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing podcast, I sit down with two of our Deal Maker Mentoring students — Ryan Kindred and Russell Cannon — who broke free from the grind and did something most people only talk about: they bought a 240-unit self-storage facility and raised $1.9 million to do it.

Ryan and Russ didn’t grow up in real estate. They weren’t born entrepreneurs. But they took action, surrounded themselves with the right people, and now they’re building a portfolio that’s changing their lives forever.

Whether you're a high-income earner ready to pivot, or a burned-out investor trying to scale, this episode is packed with real talk, tactical steps, and one heck of a comeback story.

Key Takeaways

From the Corporate Grind to Full-Time Investors

Ryan was managing $200M in power systems. Russ ran $100M+ construction projects. Both felt stuck.
They knew their time wasn’t really theirs, and they were done trading hours for dollars.
This is how they made the leap — while still working full-time — and never looked back.

Crushing Limiting Beliefs That Keep Most People on the Sidelines

“I don’t have the money.” “I’ve never done this before.” “Who’s gonna invest with me?” Sound familiar?
Ryan & Russ had every reason to stay in their comfort zone — but they didn’t.
You’ll hear exactly what shifted their mindset and how you can do the same.

Behind the Scenes of Their $1.9M Raise on a 240-Unit Deal

How they found this off-market self-storage opportunity
Step-by-step of how they raised $1.9M in equity — without a big investor list
The six-figure acquisition fee they earned and how they set themselves up for long-term cash flow

Why Mentorship and Community Made All the Difference

The moment they realized they couldn’t do it alone
How they leveraged our team, the community, and deal support to get across the finish line
What actually moves the needle when you’re doing your first commercial deal

What’s Next: Scaling Up & Building a Real Estate Business

Ryan and Russ aren’t stopping at one deal — they’re already teeing up the next
Their 3-5 year vision: more deals, more cash flow, and total lifestyle freedom
How they’re using this deal as a launchpad to financial freedom

Connect with Ryan and Russell

LinkedIn - Ryan Kindred

LinkedIn - Russell Cannon

Sable Capital Website

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session472/

MB469: This One Mistake Is Why You’re Not Scaling Your Real Estate Portfolio – With Axel Ragnarsson

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 01:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Michael Blank and Garrett Lynch talk with Axel Ragnarsson, who scaled from self-funding small multifamily deals to building a 500+ unit portfolio and raising over $15 million in capital. Axel shares the turning point that forced him to move beyond his DIY approach, how he overcame mental blocks around partnering and raising money, and what it really takes to grow in today’s market. Whether you're early in your investing journey or looking to level up, Axel’s story offers powerful insights.

Key Takeaways:

Self-Funding Has Limits: Axel built up to 70 units on his own, but liquidity challenges and stress forced him to rethink his approach and start partnering.
Mindset is Everything: His biggest obstacle wasn’t skill—it was fear of raising capital and losing control. Overcoming that changed everything.
Adapt or Miss Out: In today’s shifting market, underwriting must adjust constantly. Flat rents and rising interest rates mean conservative assumptions are critical.
Scale with Purpose: You don’t have to grow endlessly. Axel is evaluating whether to stay put or expand into new markets—and why lifestyle alignment matters.

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session469/

MB468: Market Update - What's Working Now?

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 01:00:00 -0400

In this special episode of the Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing podcast, Michael Blank sits down with his mentors—Barry Flavin, Brad Tacia, Jonathan Nichols, Paula Nichols, and Philippe Schulligen—for a powerhouse discussion. These incredible mentors, who’ve helped countless students achieve their multifamily investing goals, share their wisdom, personal journeys, and actionable tips for getting started or scaling up in real estate. Whether you’re working on your first deal or growing your portfolio, this episode is packed with inspiration and strategies to guide you to financial freedom.

Key Takeaways:

Current Market Outlook: Despite uncertain times, the mentors agree on being bullish about the multifamily market's long-term prospects. They emphasize ongoing housing demand and discuss factors like rent increases and occupancy rates that strengthen the sector.
The Role of Brokers: Building strong relationships with brokers is crucial for consistent deal flow. The mentors share strategies for establishing these connections, highlighting the advantages of frequent communication and personal meetings.
Student Success Stories: Real-world examples illustrate how students are finding and closing deals—often through creative financing solutions like seller financing. A common theme is the powerful combination of consistency and leveraging mentorship to make informed decisions.
Capital Raising Strategies: Distinguishing between deal finders and capital raisers, the panel discusses tailoring approaches to suit different personalities and skill sets. They also underline the importance of using personal networks, social media, and educational content to attract investors.
The Value of Mentorship: The mentors highlight the dual benefits of mentorship in keeping students on track and opening pathways for scaling more quickly. They stress the significance of being "all in" and actively engaging in the process to maximize the benefits of mentorship.

This episode is packed with actionable insights and real-life examples from the world of multifamily syndication. If you are looking to delve deeper into real estate investing and have access to expert guidance, consider exploring mentorship options on theMichaelBlanc.com/mentor.

Connect with Jonathan and Paula Nichols

Jonathan’s Mentor Bio

Connect with Philippe Schulligen

Mentor Bio

Boost Capital Group

Philippe LinkedIn

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session468/

MB467: The 7 Biggest Mistakes You’re Probably Making Right Now - With Michael Blank

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 01:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Michael Blank delves into the art of raising capital for real estate, highlighting the importance of using other people's money to build a real estate empire. He discusses the common mistakes people make when raising capital and shares insights on overcoming these challenges.

Key Takeaways:

Understanding Limiting Beliefs:
Many aspiring real estate investors struggle with the idea of raising capital due to limiting beliefs, such as "I can't do it," "I don't know anyone with money," and fear of using sales tactics.
Avoiding Common Mistakes:
Going online for raising money without prior experience is a common mistake.
Assuming the money will follow once you have a deal is misleading.
Start raising capital before securing a deal by using a sample deal package.
The Importance of Networking and Education:
Real estate investors should educate themselves and others about the benefits of real estate investing.
Networking and leaving a positive impression are crucial in building relationships with potential investors.
Referrals and Expanding Your Network:
Always ask for referrals to expand your network and potential investor base.
Stay in touch with potential investors to nurture relationships.
Leveraging IRA Money:
Many people have significant funds in IRAs or 401(k)s. Educate potential investors on how they can invest their IRA money in real estate.
Scaling by Raising Money Online:
Once you've raised money one-on-one successfully, transition to online platforms to scale up.
Building a strong online presence requires more than just a website; it involves creating valuable content and having a clear target audience.
The Who, Not How Mentality:
Emphasize finding partners who can help fill gaps, such as those who can raise funds while you focus on finding deals.

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session467/

MB466: How to Raise $800K in 6 Months - With Scott Tod

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 01:00:00 -0400

In this episode of The Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing podcast, Michael Blank sits down with Scott Todd, a Deal Maker who successfully transitioned into multifamily real estate. Scott shares how he closed his first deal, the key lessons he learned along the way, and how he overcame the fear and obstacles that stop many investors from taking action. If you’re on the fence about multifamily investing, this episode is packed with practical insights that will give you the confidence to move forward.

Key Takeaways

How Scott Got Started in Real Estate
Transitioned from his previous career into real estate.
Discovered multifamily investing as the fastest way to financial freedom.
Started with no prior experience but took action to learn the process.
Lessons from His First Multifamily Deal
The biggest challenges he faced and how he overcame them.
How he structured his deal and raised capital as a first-time investor.
What he would do differently if starting over today.
Overcoming Fear and Taking Action
The mindset shift that helped him push past self-doubt.
How he took the leap despite not having a perfect plan.
Why waiting for the perfect time will only slow you down.
Finding the Right Support System
The importance of mentors and networking in real estate.
How joining a like-minded community accelerated his success.
Why trying to do everything alone is a costly mistake.
Scaling Beyond the First Deal
How closing his first deal changed everything.
The next steps he’s taking to grow his portfolio.
Advice for new investors looking to get their first deal done.

Connect with Scott

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session466/

MB465: Behind the Scenes of Nighthawk Equity: How We Run a Multifamily Investment Firm

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 01:00:00 -0400

Welcome to another episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing! In this special episode, we bring you a deep dive into Nighthawk Equity with all the partners in the house – Garrett Lynch, Drew Kniffin, and our very own Michael Blank. It's been a while since the last team update, which was back in episode 414, where we discussed a deal that we didn't do.

This time, we're pulling back the curtain to share where Nighthawk started, the lessons learned, and what lies ahead in their journey to scale and face market challenges.

On this episode, Michael, Drew, and Garrett discuss everything from the origins of Nighthawk, the trials of joint ventures, the importance of asset management, to mastering the art of raising capital. Learn about their transition to focusing deeper into specific geographies and how they're adapting to today's market conditions.

Key Takeaways:

A Glimpse into Nighthawk's Origin Story
How Garrett joined through the Deal Desk with a challenging El Paso deal
The evolution from joint ventures to focus and scale
The Importance of Focus and Geography
The shift from multiple markets to being deeply rooted in Atlanta
Economies of scale and operational efficiency as major benefits
Mastering Asset Management
Why executing the business plan is crucial for financial success
Enhancing procedures and systems for operational excellence
Challenges and Innovations in Raising Capital
Introduction of fund managers with Fund of Funds program
Experimentation with paid Facebook advertising for scaling capital raise
The Secret Sauce Behind Partnership Longevity
Open communication and radical candor as key to sustained collaboration
Defining roles and respecting decision-making processes
Market Insights and Future Outlook
Navigating current economic conditions
Strategies to seize opportunities in the coming years

Join the Nighthawk team as they reflect on their past, share valuable insights into their operations, and look forward with anticipation to what’s next in real estate investing. If you're ready to take the next steps toward financial freedom, whether actively or passively, they're here to guide you.

Visit thefreedompodcast.com to discover resources customized for your journey. Whether you're looking to find deals as an operator or become a passive investor, this is your starting point.

Catch the energy of this episode, and as always, happy investing!

For more information on achieving financial freedom through real estate investing, visit thefreedompodcast.com.

Let's get you one step closer to financial independence!

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session465/

MB464: Is Now the Right Time to Invest?

Mon, 24 Mar 2025 01:00:00 -0400

Are you intrigued by the current state of the real estate market? Curious about how drastic changes over the past two years have impacted multifamily investing?

Join hosts Michael Blank and Garrett Lynch as they dissect the whirlwind shifts in the real estate market, akin to a 7 to 10 year cycle compressed into just two years. Today’s episode tackles the burning question: Is now the right time to dive into multifamily investing or should you hold off for a more stable market?

Michael and Garrett kick off the conversation by discussing the importance of adapting investment strategies in line with market cycles, underscoring that timing the market shouldn’t be the primary focus. They delve into how conservative underwriting can shield investors from making costly mistakes, especially in volatile conditions.

Listen in as the hosts explore what has changed dramatically over the past two years, including interest rates, loan terms, and the risk-adjusted returns that investors should be aware of. They also draw parallels to the 2008 financial crisis, offering insights on how the current environment might mirror opportunities seen in the past.

Key Takeaways

Market Timing vs. Strategy Development
The pitfalls of attempting to time the market
Importance of a strategic approach based on market cycles
Shifts in Risk-Adjusted Returns
Historic low interest rates two years ago versus the current environment
How increased interest rates and lowered leverage affect pricing
Adapting Strategies as Operators
The need for flexible underwriting and deal management
Selling and holding decisions based on market conditions
Multifamily Market Dynamics
Impact of rapid rate hikes and leverage restrictions
The forecast of cap rates and their implications for investors
Strategies for Success
Importance of conservative assumptions in current deals
Leveraging past market experiences to predict future opportunities

In this episode, Michael and Garrett provide valuable insights for both passive investors and those looking to actively engage in multifamily real estate. They encourage listeners to assess their investment strategies, considering both the current environment and future market potential.

For more resources and to engage with the hosts on this topic, visit: thefreedompodcast.com. Tune in to explore whether now is the opportune moment for your next real estate investment!

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session464/

MB463: The Different Ways to Become Financially Free - With Michael Blank

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 01:00:00 -0400

Are you eager to achieve financial freedom through real estate or other business opportunities? Curious about the different pathways to replace your income with passive investments?

In this episode of Podcasts, host Michael Blank shares his extensive experience with a variety of strategies to achieve financial independence, including real estate, franchises, digital marketing, and online trading. Having experimented with several avenues himself, Michael offers invaluable insights into what works, what doesn’t, and the pitfalls to avoid.

Listen in as Michael provides a thorough analysis of popular investment strategies, evaluating each through the lens of scalability, passivity, and risk. He shares personal anecdotes and lessons learned from flipping houses, managing rentals, delving into franchises, trading options, and exploring commercial strategies like self-storage and mobile home parks.

Key Takeaways:

Flipping Houses: Exciting yet not easily scalable. Discover why flipping houses might be lucrative but not the best long-term solution for financial freedom.
Rental Properties: Understand the challenges of managing a large portfolio of rentals and why it may not be as passive as it seems.
Short-Term Rentals (Airbnb/VRBO): Once profitable, now saturated with increasing legislative risk. Learn about the changing dynamics of this market.
Franchises and Business Purchases: The illusion of passive income—uncover the hidden risks and responsibilities associated with running a franchise or business.
Online Trading: Thrilling but high-risk. Michael shares his experience with trading and the reality of achieving financial freedom in this realm.
Commercial Real Estate Strategies: Explore scalable and recession-resistant options like self-storage and mobile home parks, along with their management challenges.
Multifamily Syndications: Discover why multifamily remains Michael’s preferred strategy for building passive income and generational wealth.

Ready to embark on your journey to financial freedom? Visit thefreedompodcast.com to explore resources, including a free Masterclass, or schedule a call to discuss working with Michael’s team.

Remember, financial freedom is possible, and there is more to life than just working and paying bills. Build the life you desire by creating truly passive income through smart investing. Tune in to learn how!

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session463/

MB462: Overcoming Limiting Beliefs - With Phil Moeller

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 01:00:00 -0400

Welcome to another insightful episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing. If you're struggling to scale your real estate portfolio, this episode is packed with essential insights to guide you on your journey. Whether you've started with single-family homes or are contemplating jumping straight into multifamily investing, our guest Phil Moeller shares his transformative journey from corporate manager to thriving multifamily investor.

Phil Moeller, a seasoned real estate investor since 2011, has acquired and managed over 430 units across 40 transactions. In this episode, Phil joins our host, Michael Blank, to compare the strategic advantages of multifamily versus single-family investments, emphasizing why multifamily might be the smarter path to financial freedom. From overcoming limiting beliefs to navigating the transition phases, Phil shares the setbacks and strategies that informed his journey.

In this episode, Phil explains his beginnings in single-family homes, pivoting to multifamily, and the multiple factors that influenced his real estate success. He candidly talks about the importance of having meaningful conversations with your spouse about financial goals, raising capital, and shares his acronym for success: PEACE (Purpose, Education, Association, Courage, Example).

Key Takeaways:

Phil’s Entry into Real Estate:

Sparked by the birth of his first child and the desire for his wife to work less.
Began with single-family homes, leveraging the BRRR method.

Transition to Multifamily:

Realized the challenges of scaling single-family investments.
The pivotal decision when managing 25 single-family doors became overwhelming.

Importance of Spousal Conversations:

Essential to align on goals and strategies for family and business.

Overcoming Limiting Beliefs:

How Phil addressed his own doubts and misconceptions about multifamily investment.

PEACE – Phil's Philosophy for Success:

Embrace Purpose, Education, Association, Courage, and be an Example for others.

Phil's First Multifamily Acquisition:

Shift strategy by embracing partnerships and leveraging knowledge from experienced multifamily investors.

Raising Capital:

Transition from self-funded deals to understanding the power of partnerships and investor relationships.

For those ready to take actionable steps towards achieving financial freedom through real estate, Phil emphasizes the importance of clarity, aligning your purpose with education, surrounding yourself with the right people, and taking courageous actions.

Connect with Phil on LinkedIn or via his website, www.moellere.com, and listen to his insights on real estate and business on the Moeller Real Estate and Business Podcast.

Be sure to tune in to this value-packed episode to understand how you, too, can bridge the gap from single-family to multifamily investing. For further resources or to connect with our community, visit thefreedompodcast.com. Whether you're new, aspiring to scale, or interested in passive investing, we're here to help you on your financial freedom journey.

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session462/

MB461: The 4th Pillar of Apartment Investing Success: Deal Capital - With Michael Blank

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 01:00:00 -0400

In this episode of the Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing podcast, Michael Blank wraps up the powerful 4-part series on the “4 Pillars of Apartment Investing Success” – a framework to get your first or next deal under contract in as little as 6 to 18 months. Today’s focus is on the final pillar, Deal Capital. In the last three episodes, Michael discussed becoming Deal Ready, establishing Deal Flow, and mastering Deal Analysis. Now, he dives into the importance of Deal Capital, where you’ll learn how to raise the funds you need to act quickly when the right deal comes along.

If you’ve ever felt that raising capital is daunting or worried about making mistakes, Michael breaks down the proven methods that have helped his students raise millions in capital, purchase over 41,000 apartment units, and build wealth using Other People’s Money (OPM).

Key Takeaways

The Basics of Deal Capital

Securing capital is essential to closing multifamily deals, but many investors are unsure how to raise funds effectively, especially before they have a property under contract.
Michael explains that raising capital doesn’t require you to have your own funds; you can leverage Other People’s Money (OPM) to build wealth.
He shares strategies to begin conversations with investors early, so you’re ready to move quickly when a great deal comes your way.

Creating a “Sample Deal Package”

The “Sample Deal Package” is a powerful tool that allows you to present an example of a typical deal to potential investors, even before you have a specific property identified.
This package provides potential investors with a clear picture of the type of opportunities you’re looking for, showcasing your vision and approach.
By educating investors rather than “selling” to them, the Sample Deal Package builds trust and interest, making them more likely to invest when you’re ready to close a deal.

How to Find Investors in Your Network

Raising capital often starts with people you already know, so don’t overlook your network – talk to everyone about what you’re doing.
Michael emphasizes that you’re not selling an investment; you’re educating your network about multifamily opportunities and solving a problem for them by offering passive income.
Approach potential investors as partners in wealth-building, showing them how they can benefit from passive income through real estate.

Approaching Investor Conversations as Education, Not Sales

Many investors are looking for passive income opportunities but may not know how multifamily real estate can work for them.
Instead of a sales pitch, approach conversations as education – show them the potential of multifamily investing without pressuring them.
When you position yourself as a resource, you create authentic relationships where investors feel comfortable asking questions and investing with confidence.

Success Stories Using the Deal Capital Approach

Michael shares how many of his students have used this approach to successfully raise capital, purchasing over 41,000 apartment units valued at $1.5 billion.
By focusing on education, strategic networking, and a clear investment approach, these students have been able to simplify the capital-raising process and close deals more easily.
These stories demonstrate that with the right approach, raising capital becomes an achievable part of multifamily success, even for first-time investors.

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session461/

MB460: The Fastest Way to Scale Your Portfolio & Achieve Financial Freedom - With John R. Saunders III

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 01:00:00 -0400

Are you ready to take your real estate investing to the next level? Do you feel stuck in single-family rentals, struggling to scale and create true financial freedom? If so, this episode is for you!

In this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, John R. Saunders III joins Michael Blank to share his journey from small real estate deals to large multifamily investments—and how you can do the same.

John reveals his proven strategies for scaling fast, raising capital, and making the mindset shifts necessary to play at a higher level. If you want to build a profitable real estate business and achieve financial independence, you don’t want to miss this!

Key Takeaways

Why Single-Family Rentals Won’t Make You Financially Free

The limitations of single-family investing
Why scaling with apartments is faster, easier, and more profitable
The hidden challenges of managing a portfolio of small properties

How to Raise Capital (Even If You Don’t Have Money)

How to leverage Other People’s Money (OPM) to fund deals
The exact steps John used to attract investors—even as a beginner
Why you don’t need to be rich to start buying apartment buildings

The Mindset Shift You Need to Scale Up

How to overcome fear and think bigger when investing in multifamily
The difference between a small investor vs. a multi-millionaire investor mindset
Why your network and mentors play a huge role in your success

The Power of the First Deal

How your first apartment deal will change everything
Why momentum is the key to building a thriving portfolio
How to position yourself as a credible investor even if you’re just starting

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session460/

MB459: The Secret to Unlocking Off-Market Multifamily Deals - With Michael Blank

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 01:00:00 -0400

In this episode of the Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing podcast, we’re diving into part 2 of our 4-part series on the “4 Pillars of Apartment Investing Success.” This series is all about getting you ready to close your first or next multifamily deal in 6 to 18 months. Last time, we covered Deal Ready. Today, we’re talking about Deal Flow – how to keep those quality deals coming in consistently.

Michael shares why just browsing online listings won’t cut it and how building strong relationships with brokers is the real key to accessing off-market deals that don’t go public. You’ll learn how to establish yourself as a serious investor so brokers send you the best deals first. If you’ve been struggling to find good deals, this episode is for you!

Key Takeaways

Why Deal Flow is Critical

To grow your multifamily portfolio, you need a constant stream of high-quality deals.
Without deal flow, you’re missing out on opportunities and may feel stuck or frustrated.

The Power of Off-Market Deals

Many of the best deals never get listed publicly – they’re shared directly with a broker’s trusted investors.
Michael explains why brokers prefer to share properties off-market and how you can become one of their “go-to” buyers.

How to Build Relationships with Brokers

To get these exclusive deals, you need to position yourself as a reliable, serious investor.
Michael shares tips on building broker trust, like knowing your numbers and providing quick feedback on deals they send.

Stand Out by Adding Value and Being Responsive

Brokers appreciate investors who are quick, accurate, and provide value.
By responding promptly and showing brokers you’re serious, you’ll establish yourself as someone they can count on for future deals.

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session459/

MB458: The Hidden Goldmine: Why Parking Lots Might Be the Smartest Investment You Haven’t Considered – With Kevin Bupp

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 01:00:00 -0400

Are you looking for an alternative real estate investment that offers low risk, high cash flow, and minimal management headaches? What if we told you that parking lots could be one of the most overlooked and profitable asset classes out there?

In this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, seasoned investor Kevin Bupp joins Michael Blank and Garrett Lynch to break down the unique benefits of investing in parking lots. With over $1 billion in real estate transactions, Kevin has mastered a variety of real estate asset classes, including mobile home parks and, more recently, parking lots.

If you're tired of the same old multifamily strategies and want to explore an alternative asset that can fast-track your financial freedom, this episode is packed with insights, strategies, and expert advice you won’t want to miss!

Key Takeaways

Why Parking Lots Are an Untapped Investment Opportunity

The low-maintenance, high-profit nature of parking lot investing
How parking lots compare to multifamily, office spaces, and other real estate assets
The cash flow potential of this overlooked niche

What to Look for When Evaluating Parking Lot Deals

Key financial metrics to assess a parking lot investment
The biggest red flags to watch out for before purchasing
How to determine demand, profitability, and long-term potential

Lessons from the 2008 Recession: Kevin’s Approach to Recession-Proof Investing

The biggest mistakes Kevin made during the market downturn
How to adjust your strategy in a changing economy
The best alternative asset classes for long-term wealth building

How to Get Started in Alternative Asset Investing

Why most investors overlook parking lots (and why they shouldn’t)
The best way to enter the market and start making deals
How creative financing can help you scale your portfolio faster

Connect with Kevin Bupp

MB 054: Getting Started with Mobile Home Parks – With Kevin Bupp

MB281: How to Scale a Portfolio of Mobile Home Parks – With Kevin Bupp

Real Estate Investing for Cash Flow Podcast

Connect with Michael

Resources

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session458/

MB457: How to REALLY Scale Your Real Estate Portfolio - With Michael Blank

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 01:00:00 -0400

In this episode of the Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing podcast, Michael Blank kicks off a brand-new 4-part series on the “4 Pillars of Apartment Investing Success.” This series will walk you through the essential steps to land your first multifamily deal in as little as 18 months. Today’s focus is on Pillar #1: Deal Ready.

Being “Deal Ready” is about more than just knowledge – it’s about building a team that gives you instant credibility with brokers and investors. Michael explains why having managers, lenders, and partners on your team is key to making serious progress. He shares practical steps to establish your team and look like a pro from day one. If you’re aiming to go beyond single-family properties and make a real impact in multifamily, start with this first step.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session457/

MB456: Creative Financing Strategies Explained: Buying Multifamily Deals on Terms - With Chris Prefontaine

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 01:00:00 -0400

Are you intrigued by the possibilities of acquiring real estate without using your own money or getting traditional loans? Do you want to learn the art of creative financing to scale your real estate portfolio?

In this episode of "Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing," we dive deep into creative financing with our expert guest, Chris Prefontaine. Chris is the founder of Smart Real Estate Coach, an author of four books on Amazon, and a Forbes Business Council member. He has over 33 years of experience in real estate and has mastered the art of buying and selling on terms. Chris breaks down three key creative financing strategies: seller financing, subject to existing financing, and lease purchases.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session456/

MB455: Positioning Yourself to Raise $100M in the Opportunity-Rich Market of 2025 - With Hunter Thompson

Mon, 20 Jan 2025 01:00:00 -0400

Do you want to master the art of market timing and unlock incredible opportunities in multifamily real estate? Are you interested in strategies that can help you achieve both financial independence and financial freedom through passive and active investing?

Hunter Thompson, the founder of RaisingCapital.com and Asym Capital, joins us on this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing. With significant experience in capital raising and market analysis, Hunter has raised $85 million from private investors and has deep insights into market timing.

In this engaging conversation, Hunter shares his journey from diversification in multiple asset classes to hyper-specialization in Phoenix's multifamily market. He provides compelling reasons why now might be the perfect time to get involved in multifamily real estate, despite recent market challenges.

Listen in as Hunter discusses the key differences between financial independence and financial freedom, explains the current investment climate, and outlines conservative underwriting strategies for today's market.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session455/

MB454: Fund of Funds - With Michael Blank and Garrett Lynch

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 01:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Michael Blank and Garrett Lynch dig into a simple but powerful idea: the Fund of Funds. This approach can change the game for fund managers looking to raise capital and invest in bigger real estate deals. They break down what a Fund of Funds actually is, how it works, and why it could be a great option for scaling up.

Michael and Garrett also talk about the experience they bring to the table at Nighthawk Equity—21 deals, 3,000 units, and over $350 million in assets—and what this experience means for anyone interested in multifamily investing. If you’re looking to understand the basics of a Fund of Funds, the support Nighthawk offers, and how the numbers shake out, this episode is packed with info you can actually use.

NighthawkEquity.com/fund

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session454/

MB453: Kicking off the year - With Michael Blank

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 01:00:00 -0400

In this special New Year’s episode, Michael Blank shares the key to setting goals that actually work and making this year your most intentional, purpose-driven year yet. Tired of New Year’s resolutions that fade out by February? Michael introduces his 5 Steps to Clarity, a straightforward and proven system designed to help you set goals that stick and build a life you love. This episode goes beyond traditional goal-setting, focusing on creating a clear vision for your future, setting up daily actionable steps, and building accountability to keep you on track all year long.

Whether you’re aiming for financial freedom through real estate or looking to live a life more aligned with your values, this episode is about developing the clarity, consistency, and control you need to reach your biggest goals.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session453/

MB452: Is now the best time in world history to buy multifamily? With Brian Burke

Mon, 30 Dec 2024 01:00:00 -0400

In today’s episode, Michael sits down with Brian Burke, CEO of Praxis Capital and author of The Hands-Off Investor. Brian shares why right now might be the perfect time to dive into multifamily investing - something he’s never said before - even with high interest rates. He takes us through his journey from single-family rentals to large multifamily deals and explains the mindset changes that helped him scale up. Whether you’re stuck with a few rentals or want to move into bigger deals, this episode gives you real steps to make it happen.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session452/

MB451: Market Year in Recap

Mon, 23 Dec 2024 01:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Michael Blank reflects on the major market trends, key insights, and lessons learned in 2023. With shifting interest rates, evolving multifamily strategies, and economic uncertainties, this year brought challenges and opportunities for real estate investors. Michael breaks it all down and shares actionable takeaways to prepare you for success in 2024. Whether you’re just starting out or scaling your portfolio, this episode will help you position yourself for the future.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session451/

MB450: What’s Working Now?

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 01:00:00 -0400

In this special episode of the Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing podcast, Michael Blank sits down with three of his top mentors—Jonathan Nichols, Paula Nichols, and Philippe Schulligen—for a powerhouse discussion. These incredible mentors, who’ve helped countless students achieve their multifamily investing goals, share their wisdom, personal journeys, and actionable tips for getting started or scaling up in real estate. Whether you’re working on your first deal or growing your portfolio, this episode is packed with inspiration and strategies to guide you to financial freedom.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session450/

MB449: Tis' the Season for Giving - In Honor of John Ruhlin

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 01:00:00 -0400

Do you ever struggle to create meaningful connections with your investors? Are typical corporate gifts like branded mugs and hats falling flat?

Then this episode of "Podcasts" is exactly what you need to perfect your gifting game and turn your investors into raving fans.

In this episode, Michael Blank welcomes John Ruhlin, the gift-giving guru and author of "Giftology,” to share insights on how thoughtful and personalized corporate gifts can significantly foster investor loyalty and generate referrals for your business. John sits down with co-host Garrett Lynch to discuss the underlying principles of his gifting strategy and its profound impact on building long-term relationships.

John emphasizes the significance of personalized, thoughtful gifts—such as custom-engraved knives with wisdom quotes—that leave lasting impressions and generate deep emotional connections. He lays out his proven system for successful gifting, including timing, personalization, handwritten notes, and involving the recipient’s family.

John’s innovative approach goes beyond mere kindness; it’s a strategic reinforcement of relationships that can yield substantial financial returns. He suggests that businesses should allocate 5-15% of their net profits to gifting as an investment strategy, not an expense.

Listen in to hear how Michael, Garrett, and their team at Nighthawk Equity plan to integrate John's strategies, moving away from generic gifts toward more personalized gestures that nurture meaningful connections with high-net-worth individuals.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session449/

MB448: Freedom Accelerator 3 - The Right Network

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 01:00:00 -0400

In today's episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate, Michael Blank wraps up the Freedom Accelerator series by diving into the final step: joining the right network. Discover how connecting with the right people can be the ultimate game changer for your success in multifamily real estate.

Michael Blank, host of the show, explains why building a robust network is crucial for accessing deals, raising capital, and forming partnerships that drive faster and more substantial growth. Drawing from his experiences and those of successful investors like Kris Van de Verd, Michael shares actionable insights and examples that highlight the importance of networking.

Plus, get inspired by real-life success stories, like Andy Vaughn and Seth Robinson, illustrating how strategic partnerships within the right network can skyrocket your progress.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session448/

MB447: Freedom Accelerator 2 - The Right Support

Mon, 25 Nov 2024 01:00:00 -0400

Are you looking to scale your real estate business quickly and effectively? Do you understand the critical role that support plays in achieving financial freedom with real estate?

Then this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing is for you!

Michael Blank, host and real estate investment expert, presents part two of the Freedom Accelerator series—a special three-part series aimed at helping you leverage key elements to fast-track your real estate deals. In today's episode, Michael focuses on the importance of having the right support system when you want to scale your real estate business.

Michael kicks off by highlighting the success story of Masha Klapanova, who joined his program and closed her first multi-family deal—a 50-unit property in Florida—in just five and a half months. This achievement underscores the importance of having a solid support system in place.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session447/

MB446: Freedom Accelerator 1 - The Right System

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 01:00:00 -0400

Imagine accelerating your journey to financial freedom with multifamily real estate by just focusing on three key elements. What if you could skip common mistakes, maximize your efficiency, and quickly scale your real estate portfolio? This episode is the first in a special three-part series where Michael Blank explores what he calls the "Three Freedom Accelerators."

In this episode, Michael breaks down the first accelerator: following the right system. Drawing from both personal experience and lessons learned from helping hundreds of students, Michael dives deep into why having a proven system is crucial to achieving large-scale success in real estate—and fast.

Michael shares intimate stories from his own real estate journey, highlighting the pitfalls he encountered when he didn't follow a proven system, contrasting that with the marked success and ease when he finally did. He introduces the concept of the "Deal Maker Blueprint," a systematic approach to buying your first apartment building and scaling from there.

Whether you're just starting out or looking to scale your syndication business, Michael's insights into the vital role of the right system will arm you with the knowledge to avoid common mistakes and accelerate your journey towards financial freedom through multifamily real estate investing.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session446/

MB445: Padsplit for Multifamily - With Atticus LeBlanc

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 01:00:00 -0400

Are you intrigued by innovative approaches to real estate investing that also tackle affordable housing challenges? Imagine a model that doubles your rental income while reducing vacancies and enhancing tenant retention. If this piques your interest, you're going to love this episode!

Atticus LeBlanc, CEO of PadSplit, joins hosts Michael Blank and Garrett Lynch on "Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing" to discuss a transformative shared housing model. PadSplit enhances rental income by renting properties by the room, making affordable housing accessible to more people. Atticus shares insights on how this model can be integrated into both single-family homes and multifamily properties, adapting to various housing types.

Listen in as we delve into how PadSplit addresses the unique needs of individuals earning less than $50,000 annually, how it navigates zoning and regulatory challenges, and the significant boosts it provides in terms of rental income.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session445/

MB444: What you need to know about financial freedom - With Michael Blank

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 01:00:00 -0400

Do you find yourself dreaming about achieving financial independence? Are you intrigued by the world of multifamily real estate but unsure where to start?

Then you're in the right place.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Michael Blank presents the Dealmaker Blueprint, a comprehensive system designed to help you secure your first multifamily deal and ultimately achieve financial freedom. Whether you're skeptical about multifamily investing or already considering taking the plunge, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss.

Michael Blank walks us through the seven-step Dealmaker Blueprint, beginning with clarifying your vision and surrounding yourself with the right people, through to acquiring the necessary skills and building a consistent deal pipeline. He emphasizes the importance of having the right mindset, believing that financial freedom is indeed achievable, and working within a proven framework to make it happen.

Listen in to understand how you can break into the multifamily investment space, avoid common pitfalls, and take substantial steps toward financial independence. Whether you're starting from scratch or looking to refine your approach, this episode is for you.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session444/

MB443: Key Asset Protection Techniques - With Garrett and Ted Sutton

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 01:00:00 -0400

Are you a real estate investor concerned about asset protection and tax advantages? Do you want to ensure your investments are shielded from legal risks and pitfalls?

Then you’re in the right place! In this enlightening episode of Podcasts, we dive deep into the world of asset protection with experts Garrett Sutton and Ted Sutton.

Garrett Sutton, best-selling author of "Loopholes of Real Estate," and Ted Sutton, author of "The Five Tricks to Teach Your Kids About Money," join hosts Michael Blank and Garrett Lynch to discuss essential strategies for protecting your investments. Corporate Direct offers invaluable services, including free 15-minute consultations and comprehensive financial education available on Sunstream.com.

Listen as the Suttons share insights on the Corporate Transparency Act, corporate veil piercing, and proper LLC management. Plus, you’ll learn why Wyoming is a favorable state for setting up LLCs and how to effectively use charging order protections.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session443/

MB442: Tax-Savvy Real Estate Investing - With Tim Gertz

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 01:00:00 -0400

Are you aiming for financial independence through real estate investing? Do you want to unlock the ultimate tax advantages in your real estate ventures? This episode is your roadmap to mastering tax strategies and achieving financial success!

Join Michael and Garrett as they unravel the intricacies of proactive tax planning with expert CPA, Tim Gertz. Dive into valuable insights on how real estate investors can leverage tax advantages and make smarter investment decisions.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session442/

MB441: Immigrant Engineer to Financial Freedom - With Frank Mwaisaka

Mon, 14 Oct 2024 01:00:00 -0400

Are you ready to take the leap into real estate investing? Do you see the value of mentorship in navigating the complexities of the market?

Then you’ll be inspired by the remarkable journey of Frank Mwaisaka.

Frank Mwaisaka, an immigrant from Tanzania with an engineering background, shares his trailblazing journey of achieving financial freedom through real estate on this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing. Initially skeptical about syndication and mentorship programs, Frank uncovered the power of these strategies with Michael Blank’s guidance and successfully closed his first deal for just $36 in Indianapolis, overcoming significant funding challenges along the way.

Join hosts Michael Blank and Garrett Lynch as Frank unfolds his transition from single-family homes to multifamily properties, emphasizing the role his mentorship program played in his success. With his short-term goal of spending quality time with family and a long-term vision to give back to communities in Tanzania, Frank’s story is a testament to the transformational impact of real estate investing.

Listen in to hear how Frank navigated his first deal, his plans to significantly impact education and infrastructure in Africa, and the powerful support system provided by his mentorship program.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session441/

MB440: Inflation and Real Estate - With Diego Corzo

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 01:00:00 -0400

Are you interested in learning how to leverage real estate to protect your investments from inflation? Or maybe you're inspired by success stories of overcoming incredible odds to achieve financial freedom?

Then this episode is for you. Diego Corzo, an undocumented immigrant, climbed the ranks to build a $20 million real estate business, and his journey is nothing short of inspiring.

Diego joins hosts Michael Blank and Garrett Lynch to discuss the impacts of inflation on real estate, the protective benefits of investing in real estate, and his rags-to-riches story that shows how determination and resourcefulness can lead to astounding success in the field.

On this episode of Podcasts, Diego shares his story from facing legal work and driving challenges in the U.S. to achieving financial independence at age 26. We delve into how he used masterminds and partnerships to scale his investments, transitioning from house hacking to a multimillion-dollar portfolio.

Listen in to learn about the balance of risk and conservatism in real estate investing, the importance of local market understanding, and leveraging opportunities during times of fear in the market. Diego also shares his insights on the value of masterminds and his perspective on maximizing returns on equity.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session440/

MB439: Mastering Underwriting and Deal Analysis - With Jonathan Nichols

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 01:00:00 -0400

Impressed by the financial potential of real estate investing and seeking a path to financial freedom? Discover the keys to successful underwriting and multifamily investing on this episode of Podcasts.

Jonathan Nichols, co-founder of Apogee Capital, joins Michael Blank to share his journey from engineering to real estate investing and the invaluable lessons he's learned along the way. Tune in to hear Jonathan's expert insights on underwriting, deal structuring, and avoiding common pitfalls in real estate investments.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session439/

MB438: Mastering From Single-Family Homes to Hotel Syndications - With Micah Haworth

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 01:00:00 -0400

Are you looking to transition from single-family homes to more lucrative investments? Have you ever considered the high potential of hotel investments?

In this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Micah Haworth joins Michael Blank to share his rapid journey from single-family houses to owning a hotel through syndication.

Micah, who transitioned to real estate investing after losing his job in the live event industry in 2020, has impressively built a $5.5 million portfolio in just 18 months. He walks us through his journey from a twelve-unit multifamily property to acquiring a 61-unit hotel, applying syndication principles to a different asset class.

Micah details the key steps in his success, including the importance of building a strong team, conducting thorough due diligence, and leveraging relationships for capital raises. He explains his conservative underwriting process, the impact of renovations on guest satisfaction, and the significance of having experienced partners.

Listen to gain insight into how Micah managed to meet and partner with seasoned investors, overcome the challenges of unpredictable weather in the hospitality market, and achieve his first profitable month. Plus, learn about the "Dealmaker Blueprint," a systematic approach for easy entry into multifamily and hotel investments, and how leveraging the right "who" rather than figuring out the "how" can accelerate your real estate success.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session438/

MB437: The Power of Storytelling - With Patrick Grimes

Mon, 16 Sep 2024 01:00:00 -0400

Join us as we dive deep into all things real estate and investment with Patrick Grimes, CEO of Invest on Main Street, an expert in finding unique investment opportunities and scaling marketing platforms.

In this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, hosts Garrett Lynch and Michael Blank sit down with Patrick Grimes to explore his multifaceted journey from high-tech professional to a thriving real estate investor. Patrick shares insights on building trust and credibility with investors through impactful storytelling, personal interactions, and strategic content creation.

Patrick explains how he transitioned from single-family homes to multifamily deals, emphasizing the importance of genuine connections over superficial marketing tactics like Facebook ads. He also delves into the complexities of today’s market, the surge in private debt, and the challenges of attracting the right investors.

Listen in to learn how Patrick scaled his marketing platform through webinars, podcasts, Forbes articles, and constant educational outreach, helping investors make better-informed decisions.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session437/

MB436: Keys to Selecting the RIGHT Market - With Bibi Ofiri

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 01:00:00 -0400

Are you ready to achieve financial freedom through real estate investing? Do you want to learn the secrets to building a successful team and leveraging relationships in multifamily real estate?

Join Michael Blank and Bibi Ofiri as they dive deep into the world of apartment building investing. Bibi Ofiri, a seasoned real estate investor who transitioned from house flipping burnout to multi-million dollar deals in multifamily real estate, shares her compelling journey and valuable insights in this power-packed episode.

In this episode, Bibi discusses the importance of market selection, creating relationships with property managers, brokers, lenders, and other team members. From her experiences in managing property and flipping homes to scaling up in multifamily acquisitions, Bibi underscores the crucial role of building a strong and knowledgeable team, conducting due diligence, and consistently nurturing broker relationships to unlock off-market deals.

Listen in as Bibi highlights her inspiring story from being an immigrant working in a cleaning company to an influential figure in multifamily real estate. Michael Blank and Bibi also touch upon essential tips for getting started in real estate investing, the significance of a solid financial model, and the journey towards financial independence through teamwork and education.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session436/

MB435: Assembling Your Dream Team - With Paula Nichols

Mon, 02 Sep 2024 01:00:00 -0400

Are you a solo real estate investor looking to scale your business? Do you want to achieve financial freedom faster through multifamily investing?

The secret to success lies in building the right team.

Paula Nichols is the co-founder of Apogee Capital and a multifamily syndicator who has achieved financial freedom. Born and raised in Colombia, Paula moved to the US in 2006 to chase the American Dream.

After meeting her husband Jonathan in college, the couple got started in real estate. But they made the mistake of trying to do everything themselves, limiting their ability to scale.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Paula joins me to explain the importance of building a team to achieve greatness in multifamily.

She describes the key players you need to find and acquire apartment deals, from brokers and lawyers to lenders and property managers.

Listen in for insight on selecting the right partners for your multifamily team and learn how to leverage other people's skills and experience to accelerate your success in real estate.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session435/

MB434: Debunking Housing Crash Predictions - With Jason Hartman

Mon, 26 Aug 2024 01:00:00 -0400

Struggling to afford a home in today's market? You're not alone. Housing prices are soaring, and affordability is at a 40-year low.

Jason Hartman, a seasoned real estate investor and entrepreneur, joins host Michael Blank to discuss the current state of the housing market and what it means for real estate investors.

On this episode of Podcasts, Jason shares his insights on the supply and demand challenges driving up prices, the impact of rising interest rates, and the factors contributing to the housing affordability crisis.

Despite predictions of a market crash, Jason explains why housing prices continue to appreciate and debunks the idea that rising interest rates will lead to a significant drop in prices.

Jason also discusses the role of existing homeowners in controlling the housing stock and the impact of COVID-19 and government policies on the current market conditions.

Listen in to understand the dynamics at play in the housing market and learn how real estate investors can navigate this challenging environment to achieve financial freedom through apartment building investments.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session434/

MB433: The 2024 Apartment Market Forecast - With Joe Fairless

Mon, 19 Aug 2024 01:00:00 -0400

Are you curious about the outlook for multifamily real estate investing in 2024? Do you want to know why now might be the best time to buy apartments?

Then tune in to this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, where hosts Michael Blank and Garrett Lynch sit down with special guest Joe Fairless from Ashcroft Capital and the Best Ever Real Estate Show.

As a successful real estate investor with a wealth of experience, Joe shares his insights on the current state of the market and the factors that make 2024 a potentially lucrative year for apartment investing.

In this episode, you'll learn about the impact of interest rates on real estate investment, the benefits of being a passive investor, and the risks associated with real estate investing and how to mitigate them.

Joe also discusses the current supply and demand dynamics in the apartment market, highlighting the window of opportunity for buyers to capitalize on favorable economics and the upcoming shift in the supply-demand balance.

Listen in to understand why focusing on A-class properties might be a smart move and how investors can take advantage of the opportunities in the multifamily market while others remain parked in money markets.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session433/

MB432: From Homelessness to $400 Million - With Damion Lupo

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 01:00:00 -0400

Have you ever faced immense adversity and come out the other side stronger and more focused? Do you dream of achieving financial independence through smart real estate investments?

Meet Damion Lupo, an inspiring entrepreneur who turned a catastrophic financial loss into a powerful journey of success and service. On this episode of *Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing*, Damion shares his dramatic story of losing a $20 million net worth, becoming homeless, and then rising to create a company valued at $400 million. Host Michael Blank digs deep into Damion’s life story, from growing up in Alaska to taking bold steps in the business world.

In this episode, Damion talks about an ambitious venture to tackle the housing shortage in America—Frametech. With a vision to streamline and revolutionize construction processes, Frametech is set to establish up to 100 fully automated plants, significantly reducing construction waste and time. Michael and Damion explore how determination and resilience are key traits for finding success.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session432/

MB431: Secrets to Building Trust and Securing Off-Market Real Estate Deals - With Jens Nielsen

Mon, 05 Aug 2024 01:00:00 -0400

Are you stuck in a comfortable but unfulfilling job? Do you have a vision for financial freedom but struggle to take the first step?

Jens Nielsen, a certified high-performance coach and successful real estate investor, joins Garrett Lynch and Michael Blank to share his journey from a traditional W-2 job to owning over 2000 multifamily units. Jens and his wife started their real estate investing journey with $200,000 saved in a non-retirement account, taking actionable steps based on their newfound knowledge from books and podcasts.

In this episode, Jens emphasizes mindset as the primary stumbling block to achieving financial independence. He shares how connecting with a bigger vision and understanding the pain of the current situation can be powerful motivators for change. Jens also discusses the strategic importance of professional property management, the four pillars of apartment investing success, and the role of building strong broker relationships.

Listen in to hear Jens' personal experiences in overcoming fear, investing out of state, and scaling his portfolio to over 2000 units. Whether you are just starting or looking to scale your apartment investing business, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiration.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session431/

MB430: The Four Biggest Mistakes To Avoid As A New Real Estate Investor - With Jeremy LeMere

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 01:00:00 -0400

Are you interested in achieving financial independence through real estate investing? Do you want to learn how to leverage your sphere of influence to raise capital effectively?

In this episode of *Podcasts*, Michael Blank sits down with Jeremy LeMere to discuss successful strategies for raising capital, overcoming the fear of deal-making, and avoiding common mistakes in multifamily investing.

Jeremy LeMere, a seasoned mentor in apartment building investing, shares his insights from mentoring students over the past four years and emphasizes the importance of being "deal ready." This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to accelerate their success in real estate investing through education, team-building, and practical knowledge.

Listen in as Michael Blank and Jeremy LeMere provide valuable tips on how to establish credibility with brokers, educate investors, and ensure your first deal leads to many more opportunities.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session430/

MB429: From Burnout to Multifamily Wealth - With John Funderburk and Sandy Bondurant

Mon, 22 Jul 2024 01:00:00 -0400

Are you feeling the burnout from managing properties on your own? Are you looking to scale up your real estate investments but need a like-minded team for support?

You won't want to miss this episode of **Podcasts**, where we are joined by Sandy Bundurent and John Funderburk, two seasoned real estate investors who share their remarkable journeys and insights into scaling up in the industry.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session429/

MB428: How to Pay Less Taxes - With Brett Swarts

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 01:00:00 -0400

Are you interested in unlocking your capital gains and maximizing your financial opportunities? Do you hope to grow your wealth without the constraints of traditional tax strategies?

Join hosts Michael Blank and Garrett Lynch in an enlightening discussion with Brett Swarts, a leading authority on capital gains tax deferral.

In this episode of Podcasts, Brett shares his innovative approach to deferring capital gains taxes, delving into the benefits and mechanisms of the Deferred Sales Trust (DST). Swarts, author of "Building a Capital Gains Tax Exit Plan" and an expert in the field, provides invaluable insights and practical advice to both passive and active investors looking to optimize their financial strategies.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session428/

MB427: Unlocking Capital Raising Secrets - With Barry Flavin

Mon, 08 Jul 2024 01:00:00 -0400

Do you dream of achieving financial freedom through real estate? Are you eager to learn the secrets to raising capital for multifamily investments?

Then you won't want to miss this special episode with Barry Flavin—a multifamily syndicator and mentor with an impressive background in air traffic control and software sales.

Barry Flavin is a wealth of knowledge, having transitioned from owning single-family rentals to managing hundreds of apartment units and raising millions in capital. As a mentor for aspiring real estate investors, Barry is committed to sharing his expertise on achieving financial independence through apartment building investments.

On this episode of the Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing podcast, Barry sits down with Garrett Lynch and Michael Blank to share his compelling journey into the multifamily space. Barry opens up about his origin story, his strategic transition from single-family rentals, and how he effectively collaborates with his partner to achieve substantial growth.

Listen in as Barry discusses his role in capital raising, the importance of building a strong team, and the operational efficiencies that set their business apart. If you’ve ever wondered how to break into apartment investing or how to raise capital like a pro, this episode is packed with actionable insights.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session427/

MB426: Harnessing the Power of Virtual Assistants to Supercharge Your Real Estate Business - With David Homyak

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 01:00:00 -0400

Do you wish you had more time to focus on what you do best? Are you struggling to manage all the aspects of your real estate business?

In this episode of the "Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing" podcast, Michael Blank and Garrett Lynch co-host an enlightening conversation with David Homyak, an expert in hiring high-level virtual assistants (VAs) with over five years of experience. David shares how strategic delegation can transform your business operations, allowing you to spend more time in your "genius zone."

David Homyak is an expert in the field of virtual assistants, with a special focus on hiring experienced VAs for real estate businesses. He has developed a streamlined hiring process that minimizes the recruiter’s time and effort while maximizing the quality of hires. David’s company specializes in finding VAs with extensive backgrounds, particularly in real estate, ensuring that they can handle complex tasks with ease. His approach to integrating VAs into business operations helps entrepreneurs and business owners delegate efficiently and drive growth.

Access the free personality assessment tool and other resources for hiring virtual assistants at themichaelblank.com/va

Join the Investor Club https://nighthawkequity.com/invest-now/

Get the #1 Apartment Investing Course for FREE https://apartments101.co/

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session426/

MB425: How to Invest Like a Millionaire - With Jim Dew

Mon, 24 Jun 2024 01:00:00 -0400

Are you curious about alternative investments and how to diversify your portfolio like the wealthy? Do you want to understand how successful investors allocate their assets across various investment opportunities?

In this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, I’m joined by Jim Dew, CEO of Dew Wealth Management. With 29 years of experience building virtual family offices and deep expertise in alternative investments, Jim offers insightful strategies on how millionaires and billionaires invest, helping you align your investment strategy with that of the supremely wealthy.

We'll cover a wide array of topics, from oil and gas investments to private debt and venture capital. Jim shares his views on the benefits and risks associated with each, including the importance of not letting tax benefits drive your investment decisions but considering the quality and longevity of the investment.

Listen in to learn how you can diversify your investment portfolio, understand the relative advantages of different asset types, and discover opportunities in real estate syndications through platforms like Nighthawkequity.com.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session425/

MB424: Journey From W2 Mortgage Broker to Real Estate Investor— With Rich Hamilton

Mon, 17 Jun 2024 01:00:00 -0400

Are you ready to take your first steps towards financial independence through apartment building investing? Do you want to learn from the experiences of those who've journeyed before you?

Join us on this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, where we dive deep into the art of multifamily investing and achieving the ultimate goal: financial independence.

Our guest, Rich Hamilton, transitioned from a flourishing career as a mortgage broker to become a financially free real estate investor. Rich shares the pivotal moments that led to leaving his W-2 job and the strategies he used to build a successful real estate portfolio.

On this episode, Rich and I explore the dangers of complacency in any career and how it impedes growth and fulfillment. Rich opens up about his journey, discussing both the highs of achieving financial freedom and the complexities of not knowing what's next once financial goals are reached.

Listen in as we touch on Rich's experiences, from dealing with financial freedom post-exit to his tips on continuing personal and professional growth. You'll hear how Rich overcame his initial fears and challenges, emphasizing the roles of a support team, steady momentum, and a consistent drive towards future goals.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session424/

MB423: Mastering Online Marketing for Multifamily Syndication — With Todd Heitner

Mon, 10 Jun 2024 15:15:00 -0400

Are you looking for innovative strategies to capture and convert leads online for your real estate investments?

Todd Heitner, the mastermind behind Apartment Investor Pro, shares his two decades of experience in creating online presences for real estate investors, with a special focus on multifamily syndicators over the past decade.

Throughout this episode, Todd discusses the essential components of a robust online marketing platform—from having a professional website to leveraging social media and producing valuable content. He highlights the importance of strategic planning to capture and nurture leads, employing tools like lead magnets and automated email sequences to build trust with potential investors. Todd also sheds light on the role of AI in content creation and investor interaction, offering practical tips for using technology to enhance human touchpoints.

Whether you're a seasoned syndicator or just starting out, you’ll find Todd’s insights incredibly valuable for scaling your capital-raising efforts online. Don't miss this episode packed with actionable advice on establishing an effective and efficient online presence. Tune in now to learn how to boost your syndication business!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session423/

MB422: The Career Track of a Capital Raiser — With Christopher Price

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 01:00:00 -0400

Do you love networking and meeting new people? Do you regularly spend time with high-net-worth individuals?

Then you are a good fit for the capital raiser role in a multifamily general partnership.

Christopher Price is the CEO of Red Fox Multifamily and Managing Member of Boost Capital Group. As both a passive and active investor, he has a portfolio of 1,200 units valued over $32.5M.

With more than 20 years of experience in medical device sales, Christopher combines his network of professional connections with an outgoing personality to crush it as a capital raiser on the Boost team.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Christopher joins me to explain how he got his start with single family rentals and what inspired his transition to multifamily.

Christopher describes his role as the capital raiser in a GP, discussing how he attracts and educates potential investors about real estate opportunities.

Listen in to understand Christopher’s journey from passive to active apartment investor and learn how he is leveraging LinkedIn to expand his network of prospective LPs.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session422/

MB421: Secrets of Successful Multifamily Asset Management — With Jonathan & Paula Nichols

Mon, 27 May 2024 01:00:00 -0400

There’s a saying in real estate that ‘you make money when you buy.’ And while that may be true for single family rentals and flips, apartment buildings are a little different.

In multifamily, you make money when you add value. When you execute your business plan. When you stick to your budget and achieve projected returns.

So, what does successful asset management look like in today’s market?

Jonathan and Paula Nichols are the cofounders of Apogee Capital, a multifamily syndication business that helps people invest in commercial real estate.

Jonathan and Paula began their investing journey in 2018, and by 2021, they had built a portfolio of 183 units worth $15.6M. The Nichols also serve as mentors with the Michael Blank program.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Jonathan and Paula join us from Deal Maker Live to share their top takeaways from the conference and explain why 2024 is a year of opportunity in multifamily.

Jonathan and Paula offer advice on raising capital in the current market and discuss why relationships are crucial in the team sport that is syndication.

Listen in for insight around the characteristics of successful mentoring students and find out what it takes to manage multifamily assets well in 2024.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session421/

MB420: 3 Accelerators to Financial Freedom — With Masha Kruskal & Ahuva Druin

Wed, 15 May 2024 01:00:00 -0400

Wish you could get a bigger real estate deal done faster?

Then you need the three freedom accelerators—the right system, the right support, and the right network.

Masha Kruskal and Ahuva Druin leveraged this formula to partner on a syndication in Live Oak Florida and fast-track their success as multifamily GPs.

Masha has 18 years of experience in residential and commercial real estate and international startups. Ahuva is a principal investor with expertise in value-add, buy-and-hold, and multifamily real estate.

They connected as students in the Michael Blank Mentoring Program and joined forces to take on their first big multifamily deal.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Masha and Ahuva join me to discuss what inspired their interest in multifamily and why they chose our mentoring program.

Masha and Ahuva describe their roles as capital raiser and deal finder, explaining how their complementary skills and commitment to the process helped them close a deal in just 30 days!

Listen in for advice on overcoming limiting beliefs through mentorship and learn how Masha and Ahuva used a proven system and the Michael Blank network to accelerate their path to financial freedom.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session420/

MB419: Should You Invest in Stocks or Real Estate?— With Michael Blank & Drew Kniffin

Mon, 06 May 2024 01:00:00 -0400

If you’re counting on a financial advisor to grow your wealth, it’s likely that MOST of your money is in the stock market.

But that’s not how ultra-high-net-worth individuals approach investing.

So, what if you diversified your portfolio to include more alternative investments?

Drew Kniffin is Partner and President at Nighthawk Equity, the multifamily investing arm of The Michael Blank Brands.

Drew has a corporate finance and real estate investing career that spans two decades, and he is passionate about helping high-net-worth entrepreneurs invest passively in apartments.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Drew joins me to debate the pros and cons of investing in the stock market versus real estate.

Drew makes the case for the stock market, explaining why you should stay engaged with Wall Street as part of a balanced portfolio.

Michael discusses why he’s cynical about stocks, describing how the volatility of the market can decimate your returns over time.

Listen in for insight on how HNWIs invest their money and learn how to optimize your portfolio, mitigate your risks, and grow your wealth with real estate!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session419/

MB418: Finding the Right Commercial Real Estate Attorney— With Kyle Swafford

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Your attorney is a key player in helping you close on any real estate deal.

But the right commercial real estate attorney truly cares about you and your success. They are willing to educate you on aspects of the law you might not know and navigate problems that arise along the way.

Kyle Swafford is the founder of Swafford Law, a commercial real estate law firm that represents clients in syndications, tax considerations for investors, join ventures and commercial lending.

Kyle has a wealth of experience in tax law, commercial real estate law and securities compliance, working as an International Tax Consultant at Deloitte prior to building his own firm.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, we’re sharing Kyle’s conversation with Garrett Lynch on real estate law at Deal Maker Live 2024.

Kyle explains what inspired his transition from tax law to real estate and how he streamlines the process of closing on a multifamily deal.

Listen in for Kyle’s insight on distress in the current commercial market and learn how a good attorney can help you avoid mistakes and get your next deal across the finish line!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session418/

To contact Kyle here are his details:

Website: www.swaffordlawllc.com
Email: kyle@swaffordlawllc.com
Office: 404-532-9531

MB417: Expand Your Comfort Zone, Create Wealth — With Garrett Lynch & Michael Blank

Mon, 15 Apr 2024 01:00:00 -0400

Is fear holding you back from investing in multifamily?

Even seasoned investors like us deal with fear. The difference is, we don’t let it stop us from moving forward.

But how do you expand your comfort zone? How do you feel the fear and take action anyway?

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Garrett and I sit down to explain why now is the right time to invest in multifamily and ‘be greedy when others are fearful.’

We discuss how we pulled off a refinance on a variable rate property (in just 25 days!) and offer advice on how to never run out of leads for raising capital.

Listen in to understand why new investors don’t have to start with single family strategies and learn how to expand your comfort zone to achieve financial freedom with multifamily real estate!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session417/

MB416: Monetizing the RV Boom with Wheel Estate — With Garr Russell

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 01:00:00 -0400

Are you looking to build a business but don’t want to start from scratch? What if you could learn a proven system and receive support from someone who’s done it themselves?

Then you might be interested in an RV rental management franchise, a business that monetizes the RV boom and helps entrepreneurs build wealth with WHEEL estate!

Garr Russell is Founder and CEO of Fireside RV Rental, the Airbnb of RVs. Since its inception in 2015, Fireside has grown into a franchise with 40 locations across the country and hundreds of RVs under management.

A born entrepreneur, Garr has started, scaled and sold several companies. His genius lies in understanding systems, marketing, and forging the way for others.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Garr joins us to explain how renting out his own RV inspired him to build and scale Fireside.

Garr discusses how RV owners benefit from the Fireside business model and describes how franchisees learn his proven system and receive support from expert RV rental managers.

Listen in for Garr’s advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and learn how to launch, grow and manage a successful RV rental business with other people’s RVs—no prior experience required.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session416/

MB415: Solving for Affordable Housing with Hotel Conversions — With Alex Cartwright

Mon, 01 Apr 2024 01:00:00 -0400

Good multifamily deals have been hard to find in recent years. And Alex Cartwright was struggling to compete with more experienced investors.

He was looking for a niche that would give him a unique advantage. That’s when he met a broker at a conference who suggested converting a hotel into apartments.

Alex thought it sounded like a pain in the you-know-what. But when he looked at the numbers, Alex realized that the problems were worth solving.

Today, Alex is Founder and Managing Partner at Vilicus Capital, a real estate investing firm that specializes in converting hotels into affordable multifamily housing.

Alex is also Associate Professor of Economics at Ferris State University, where he teaches classes on managerial economics, economic growth and international business.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Alex joins us to explain what inspired his interest in real estate as a tenured professor making six figures.

Alex shares his twist on the traditional multifamily strategy, describing how he finds hotels that can be purchased cheaply in growing markets and converts them into workforce housing.

Listen in for insight into Alex’s first deal as lead GP of a hotel conversion and learn how to find your niche as an investor to achieve financial freedom with real estate!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session415/

MB414: Case Study of a Real Estate Deal We Didn’t Do — With Drew Kniffin & Garrett Lynch

Wed, 27 Mar 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Here at Nighthawk Equity, we haven’t done a multifamily deal in 18 months.

So, we were excited to find what looked like an ideal opportunity in Atlanta. And two months ago, we got the deal under contract.

But after spending $15,000 in the due diligence process, we ultimately decided to walk away.

What went wrong?

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, I sit down with my partners at Nighthawk, Drew Kniffin and Garrett Lynch, to debrief on the deal we didn’t do.

We explain what we liked about the deal, describing what made it a textbook value-add opportunity and how we planned to renovate the units and upgrade several amenities in the community.

Listen in for insight into the issues we discovered in the due diligence process and learn how to stick to your investment criteria and protect your investors by walking away from a bad deal!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session414/

MB413: Removing Obstacles to Your First Multifamily Acquisition — With Jeremy Lemere

Mon, 18 Mar 2024 01:00:00 -0400

You don’t know what you don’t know. And if you’re doing your very first multifamily acquisition, every little thing that comes up can seem insurmountable.

But if you have the support of a mentor, they can talk you through those obstacles, prevent rookie mistakes, and alleviate your concerns as an aspiring investor.

Jeremy Lemere is a successful investor and operator of multifamily, commercial, and self-storage facilities in Northeast Wisconsin.

He is also a mentor with the Michael Blank program, and his investment portfolio of $15M is made up of personal investments, self-directed IRA funds, solo 401(k) funds and real estate syndications.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Jeremy joins guest host Marybeth Noonan to explain how being a student in our mentoring program helped him transition out of his W-2.

Jeremy describes how he stayed connected to our network through a mastermind and eventually joined the team as a mentor, sharing his strengths in understanding finance and capital markets.

Listen in for insight on playing in different asset classes for the best return and learn how a mentor can help you learn the business of being a real estate investor!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session413/

MB412: 5 Clarity Practices for Living an Intentional Life — With Michael Blank

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 01:00:00 -0400

Do you feel stuck? Like you’re not making progress in life?

Until my early 30s, I drifted through life. It felt like unseen forces were holding me back. And then I had a breakthrough and started living an intentional life—filled with purpose and fulfillment.

What made the difference? What does it mean to live with intention? What disciplines helped me identify and pursue what really matters to me?

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, I’m sharing my five clarity practices for living an intentional life.

I discuss the My Perfect Day exercise that helped me start making mindful choices and walk you through my process for setting five-year, one-year and quarterly goals.

Listen in for insight on scheduling Monthly Clarity Days and Weekly Strategic Time to reflect on your progress and learn how a Daily Morning Routine can help you live a more purposeful, fulfilling life!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session412/

MB411: When the Multifamily Mentoring Student Becomes the Teacher — With David Kamara

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 01:00:00 -0400

Would David Kamara have figured out how to invest in multifamily on his own?

Yes, but at a much slower pace.

Working with a mentor accelerated his success. And now, the student has become the teacher.

David is a seasoned investor and mentor with the Michael Blank program. With 15 years of experience in real estate, David owns 1,000-plus units across the Midwest, primarily in Michigan and Iowa.

David is also a successful management consultant and sought-after advisor to C-suite executives and private equity investors. And he is fluent in five languages!

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, David joins guest host Marybeth Noonan to share his early wins as a student in our mentoring program.

David describes a near-perfect deal he manages in Marquette, Michigan, and discusses how he problem-solved an unexpected situation where the property taxes on a pending deal tripled.

Listen in for insight on trusting your resourcefulness as an aspiring investor and learn how a mentor like David can fast track your success in multifamily investing.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session411/

MB410: The Negotiator’s Edge — With Garrett Lynch

Mon, 19 Feb 2024 01:00:00 -0400

Whether you're looking to close a business deal or just improve your everyday interactions, the art of negotiation is key to getting to a YES.

But what if you’re not a natural negotiator?

How do you build a relationship with the person on the other side of the table? Or learn to navigate difficult conversations?

On this episode of the Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Garrett is back to explain how his experience selling Cutco knives helped him become an expert negotiator.

He describes how he prepares for a negotiation, discussing what it means to command the relationship and how to respond when emotions run high.

Listen in for Garrett’s tips on gaining leverage in a negotiation and learn how to secure the negotiator’s edge in a legal dispute, contract negotiation or real estate deal.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session410/

MB409: Can You Fix-and-Flip Your Way to Financial Freedom? — With Michael Blank

Fri, 16 Feb 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Reading Rich Dad Poor Dad inspired me to build generational wealth. But the first few cashflow businesses I tried didn’t produce the passive income I expected.

So, if you’re thinking about starting your real estate career with fix-and-flips or even a SFH portfolio, know that neither strategy leads to financial freedom.

But can you really skip single family investing and jump right into apartments?

On this episode of the podcast, I’m sharing my journey to financial freedom with real estate, explaining why I tried to earn passive income with restaurants first—and why that strategy didn’t work.

I discuss why it’s impossible to scale a single-family portfolio to achieve financial freedom and describe the light bulb moment when I pivoted to multifamily investing.

Listen in for insight on getting into multifamily without money or experience and learn how to skip SFH investing and start building wealth with apartments!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session409/

MB408: Multifamily Market Outlook: How to Survive & Thrive in 2024 — With Michael Blank

Wed, 07 Feb 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Whether you’re already involved in multifamily syndications, or you’re interested in getting into the space in 2024, it’s crucial to understand the market outlook.

Through Nighthawk Equity, we own a 2,000-unit portfolio worth $350M. And we’re always on the lookout for new deals.

That means we have insight into what’s happening in the market and what’s likely to happen in 2024.

So, what are our predictions for the next 12 months of multifamily real estate? How can you leverage this information to survive and thrive as an investor in 2024?

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, I’m sharing my top three headlines for the multifamily market outlook in 2024.

I discuss what’s behind the ongoing operator distress in apartments and describe how the fundamentals of multifamily remain strong despite the challenges.

Listen in to understand how economic headwinds are easing and learn how to take advantage of the incredible buying opportunities coming in 2024!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session408/

MB407: How to Create Wealth in 2024 — With Michael Blank

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 01:00:00 -0400

You want financial freedom, but it feels out of reach.

Because you’re living paycheck to paycheck. And struggling to pay down consumer debt.

So, how do you get from where you are now to building generational wealth?

On this episode of the podcast, I’m walking you through the steps to achieving financial freedom in 2024.

I explain how to get your financial house in order first, challenging you to track your current spending and build emergency savings over time.

Listen in to understand why apartment investing is the key to financial freedom and learn how to create enough wealth to quit your job in the next six to 18 months!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session407/

MB406: Navigating Setbacks to Find Success in Real Estate — With Garrett Lynch

Mon, 22 Jan 2024 01:00:00 -0400

Losing is never fun, but it’s often valuable.

In fact, Garrett Lynch contends that down moments force us to pick ourselves up and close the gap between who we are and who we want to be.

In addition to being my podcast cohost, Garrett Lynch serves as Director of Acquisitions and Managing Member of our investing firm, Nighthawk Equity.

And his story is full of setbacks. Setbacks that pushed him to grow and take the next step in becoming a successful real estate investor.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Garrett goes solo to share his journey from troubled teen to millionaire multifamily entrepreneur.

Garrett explains how he developed his #1 skill set selling Cutco knives and describes how his experience as a VIP concierge at a nightclub led him to real estate.

Listen in to understand what Garrett learned from scaling a portfolio of class D properties and get his advice on finding happiness in the business of real estate investing.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session406/

MB405: The Best System to Crush Your Goals in 2024

Mon, 15 Jan 2024 01:00:00 -0400

It's a new year with exciting new possibilities. Which means many of us are setting goals for 2024.

But why is it that New Year's resolutions usually don't work? Why can't we seem to stick to them for more than a few weeks before we fall away?

And more importantly, what can we do about it?

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, I’m sharing the Living Fully Compass system I recommend to crush your goals in 2024.

I explain what causes most of us to fail to follow through on our goals and why it’s beneficial to share your vision with a small group of accountability partners.

Listen in for insight on eliminating deadlines when you can’t control all the variables and learn how to achieve your goals by committing to the activities that lead to the outcome you want—for as long it takes!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session405/

MB404: What Makes Self-Storage Recession Resistant — With Sergio Altomare

Mon, 08 Jan 2024 01:00:00 -0400

What are the three most recession-resistant asset classes in real estate?

Even in challenging economic times, multifamily, mobile home parks and self-storage perform quite well.

Sergio Altomare built a portfolio of small multifamily properties while working full-time in technology for the Federal Reserve.

But in 2018, Sergio was having a hard time getting deals to pencil. He anticipated a market correction and pivoted to self-storage.

Today, Sergio is Cofounder and CEO of Hearthfire Holdings, a real estate private equity and development firm that manages over $50M in self-storage assets.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Sergio joins Garrett and me to discuss the benefits of investing in self-storage.

Sergio describes the financing challenges he’s facing in his business right now and shares his outlook for the self-storage market moving into 2024.

Listen in for Sergio’s insight on using data to find deals and find out if self-storage is the right real estate investment for you!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session404/

MB403: How to Raise Capital at Scale (in Any Market!) — With Bronson Hill

Mon, 01 Jan 2024 01:00:00 -0400

Passive investors are fearful in the current market environment.

Many got burned by rising interest rates, and they’re skittish about putting more money into the real estate market right now.

But we know that there are big opportunities coming in 2024. And Warren Buffet encourages us to ‘be fearful when others are greedy and be greedy when others are fearful.’

So, how do you position a deal to investors who may have lost money in multifamily? Can you still raise capital at scale—even when it’s not a popular time to invest?

Bronson Hill is CEO of Bronson Equity, where he has raised over $20M for real estate ventures and served as GP for a portfolio valued at more than $150M.

An advocate for helping others achieve financial freedom through passive investing, Bronson educates aspiring investors through his podcast and new book, Fire Yourself: Replace Your Working Income with Passive Income in 3 Years or Less.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Bronson joins Garrett and me to explain how he raises money at scale through his online marketing platform.

Bronson shares the inspiration behind his book, Fire Yourself, and discusses the common mistakes passive investors make.

Listen in for Bronson’s insight on vetting deals in new asset classes and learn how to position a multifamily deal to investors and raise money in a challenging market environment.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session403/

MB402: Leveraging Financial Freedom into a Life of Significance Serving Uganda — With Drew Kniffin

Mon, 25 Dec 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Financial freedom opens you up to live a life of significance.

To pursue passions that may or may not generate any revenue. To do volunteer work or support causes you believe in.

For me, that cause is Uganda Counseling and Support Services or UCSS, a nonprofit dedicated to improving the quality of life in remote communities of Uganda.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Drew Kniffin joins me to discuss our involvement with UCSS, describing how I met its founder, Dr. Ronald Kaluya, and what differentiates the organization from other nonprofits.

Drew asks me why I trust Dr. Kaluya and his team, and I explain how UCSS measures the impact of donor dollars in the communities we serve.

Listen in to understand the vision for UCSS moving forward and learn how you can get involved by sponsoring a student or becoming a legacy partner in the ministry!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session402/

MB401: How to Transition from a W-2 to Entrepreneurship — With Elaine Stageberg

Mon, 18 Dec 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Most real estate investors being their journey while they’re working a W-2.

But many hesitate to step away from the perceived security of their regular job, even after they’ve replaced their living expenses.

Others achieve financial freedom, leave the rat race, and then feel lost because they don’t have a sense of purpose.

So, what is the best way to transition from a W-2 to full-time entrepreneurship?

In addition to being a distinguished psychiatrist and mother of four, Dr. Elaine Stageberg is Cofounder and CEO of Black Swan Real Estate.

Elaine is a sought-after national presenter and investment thought leader, and she owns and operates a multifamily portfolio of 1,300 units.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Elaine joins Garrett Lynch to share her transition from psychiatry and healthcare administration to full-time real estate investor.

Elaine offers advice on preparing to leave your W-2, challenging us to simultaneously work toward our objective freedom number and the more subjective inner freedom it takes to make the leap.

Listen in for Elaine’s insight on elevating yourself to the next level of success and learn how to connect with investors who are ahead of you on the journey to financial freedom with real estate!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session401/

MB400: The Best of 2023 on Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing

Mon, 11 Dec 2023 01:00:00 -0400

What were the top AHA moments on Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing in 2023?

As the year comes to an end, it’s time for a highlight reel of our most inspiring moments on the podcast in the last 12 months.

On this Best of 2023 episode, we revisit our conversation with Faisal Ensuan and Dr. Sheri Fluellan on why real estate syndicators need the right coach and reflect on Joseph Kimbrough’s advice around building relationships with high-net-worth investors.

We look back at Marc Rutzen’s insight on using AI for asset management, Chris Pomerleau’s guidance on overcoming imposter syndrome and Nicole Gauthier’s suggestions for connecting with a real estate investing mentor.

We also share wisdom from Rachel Richards on the value of financial independence, Ross Hamilton on successfully pivoting a real estate company, and Jon Jasniak on land flipping with no friction.

Listen in for Matt King’s advice on choosing a peer group that will help you level up and get free coaching from our top guests on Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing in 2023!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session400/

MB399: Can You Achieve Financial Freedom with Short-Term Rentals? – With Syed Lateef

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 01:00:00 -0400

There are risks associated with running short-term rentals, especially when your Airbnb units are in a multifamily building.

But Syed Lateef has found a way to scale a STR business in apartment buildings.

And the landlords don’t just ALLOW Syed to rent their units, they WELCOME it.

Syed stands out in the world of short-term rentals, currently managing a portfolio of 300 units with a dedicated team of 50-plus employees.

Syed’s business earns over $30,000 a day, allowing him to give back by providing clean water wells to communities in need.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Syed joins us to explain how he replaced his W-2 income with short-term rentals.

Syed discusses his rental arbitrage business model, describing what he does to mitigate the risks of renting multifamily units on Airbnb and how he helps landlords solve vacancy issues.

Listen in for insight into the risks of running a STR business and learn how Syed achieved financial freedom with Airbnbs in apartments.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session399/

MB398: How to Earn Passive Income Through Land Flipping – With Travis King

Mon, 27 Nov 2023 01:00:00 -0400

I'm not really a big fan of flipping anything.

I flipped three dozen houses early in my real estate career. But couldn't figure out how to turn that into a financial freedom business.

That's why I switched to apartments. And I am convinced that apartments are the number one way to become financially free with real estate.

But Travis King found a way to earn passive income with land flipping.

How does that work?

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Travis joins us to discuss how he finds and finances off-market vacant land deals.

Travis explains how he gets top dollar on land when he sells it, earning a nice return for investors and interest income for himself through seller financing.

Listen in for insight on raising outside money to land bigger deals and learn how long it takes to replace your W-2 income with land flipping!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session398/

MB397: Reduce Risk & Earn Solid Returns (Even in a Recession!) – With Mark Khuri

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Mark Khuri’s real estate business survived the crash of 2008.

And the lessons he learned through that experience can help us take advantage of similar circumstances in the current market.

But how do you find good deals in tough times? Can you reduce risk without reducing expected returns?

Mark is Cofounder of SMK Capital Management, a family-owned investment firm that focuses on providing diversified offerings and attractive returns via income-producing commercial real estate.

With 17 years of real estate investing experience, Mark has executed over $1 billion in deals in a variety of asset classes.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Mark joins us to discuss how he leveraged networking to make it through the Great Recession.

Mark describes his transition from sponsor and operator of a SFH portfolio to raising capital for mobile home parks, self-storage and large multifamily deals.

Listen in for insight around Mark’s process for vetting operators and learn what you should be looking for in a good deal right now!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session397/

MB396: Why Your Real Estate Business Needs an Exit Strategy – With Ross Hamilton

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Wherever you are in the process of building a company (real estate or otherwise), it’s important to consider your exit strategy.

Because even if you don’t plan on selling your business anytime soon, that pushes you to eliminate yourself from the day-to-day and move into what we call the owner’s box.

So, what does it look like to position your company to sell? And how do you benefit from building a business that runs without you?

Ross Hamilton is the former CEO of Connected Investor, the real estate technology platform he scaled and sold to Fortune 100 Company First American.

Today, he is planning a mountain biking trip to Peru and building Saving Homes, a nonprofit that is disrupting affordable housing.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Ross joins us to discuss how he positioned Connected Investor to sell and why First American was the right buyer at the right time.

Ross shares what he learned in ten years of scaling Connected Investor and walks us through his ‘lifeboat strategy’ for transitioning into the next chapter of your life.

Listen in to understand how Saving Homes is helping people leverage real estate to escape poverty and get Ross’ advice on architecting an exit strategy for your real estate investing business!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session396/

MB395: Get Rid of Your Golden Handcuffs with Real Estate – With Brooke Ceballos-Pinero

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Is your corporate job making you miserable?

Are you tired of giving everything to your company for eight hours (or more) and being too exhausted to spend quality time with your family at the end of the day?

What if you could get rid of those golden handcuffs with real estate?

Brooke Ceballos-Pinero has not only achieved financial freedom through real estate, but she is also dedicated to empowering others on their path to prosperity.

After 20 years in corporate America, Brooke left her W-2 just two weeks ago and went all-in on herself, growing the Multifamily Momentum coaching program and Real Women in Real Estate book project.

On this episode of the podcast, Brooke describes her frustrations with corporate America and shares the game plan she used to leave her 9-to-5 for real estate.

Brooke discusses the societal messaging that keeps women from pursuing multifamily, explaining why she’s committed to inspiring people in marginalized communities to build wealth with real estate.

Listen in for Brooke’s advice on planning your own exit from the corporate world and get inspired to achieve financial freedom with real estate—no matter who you are or where you come from!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session395/

MB394: Regaining Investor Trust After a Foreclosure – With Robert Martinez

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Robert Martinez has been a successful real estate investor for more than a decade. But he made headlines recently when MF1 Capital foreclosed on one of his Houston properties.

So, how did it happen? What factors contributed to Robert losing the first deal of his career?

Robert is the visionary syndicator behind Rockstar Capital, a multifamily investing firm with a portfolio of 21 apartment communities encompassing 3,762 rental units.

In 10 years, Robert has led the underwriting, acquisition and management of 30 multifamily properties, and he is the only two-time National Apartment Association Independent Rental Owner of the Year.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate, Robert describes the perfect storm that led to his first foreclosure, discussing how the Fed rate hikes impacted his business.

Robert explains why hiring a third-party management company for help backfired and shares what he did to try and save the deal—and why it didn’t work.

Listen in to understand how Robert benefited from being transparent with investors and learn what he is doing to regain their trust before he expands the Rockstar portfolio.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session394/

MB393: From US Marine to Multifamily Fund Manager – With Joseph Kimbrough

Mon, 23 Oct 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Former Marine Joseph Kimbrough was a successful wholesaler, but the work was a constant grind.

Joseph realized that to achieve financial freedom, what he needed was equity. And he was already comfortable pitching investors on big-ticket wholesale deals

So, Joseph started building a fund, raising capital from high-net-worth individuals and investing that money in multifamily deals run by the best operators in the business.

Today, Joseph is Founder and Fund Manager at Apex Real Estate Investments, a privately held equity investment company that invests in multifamily in the Southeast US.

To date, Joseph has built a portfolio of 592 doors worth $150M, and he is also a TEDx Speaker and esteemed member of the Forbes Real Estate Council.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate, Joseph shares his ‘dream team’ approach to investing with top syndicators and describes the challenges he faced raising capital early on.

Joseph explains what he learned in the Marines that applies to real estate and offers advice on connecting with high-net-worth investors—both in person and online.

Listen in to understand how Joseph is inspired by his trips to East Africa and learn how real estate can give YOU the location and time freedom to travel abroad!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session393/

MB392: Business Boost with Michael Blank: ‘It’s Been 9 Months & I Haven’t Closed My First Deal!’ – With Mario Rapaj

Mon, 16 Oct 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Mario Rapaj has been in our mentoring program for nine months now, but he hasn’t closed his first deal.

And he’s frustrated.

So, what’s holding Mario back?

Is he doing the right activities? Does he have any limiting beliefs? What can he do to get unstuck and finally become a GP?

Mario is Founder of Tex-Alb Real Estate Investment Group, a syndication business headquartered in Dallas, Texas. He has an LP portfolio of 375 multifamily units and owns several single-family properties.

Mario is driven to improve the quality of life in the communities where he invests and help passive investors build generational wealth.

On this Business Boost coaching session, Mario shares his challenges in finding deals that fit his criteria and getting investors to commit in the current market.

I ask Mario what he’s doing to raise capital, offering advice around how to get more investor leads and connect with partners who specialize in raising money.

Listen in for insight on finding a mentor to support your investing journey and learn how to stay the course and take consistent daily action to achieve financial freedom with real estate!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session392/

MB391: The Exception to the Law of the First Deal – With Ed Hermsen

Mon, 09 Oct 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Ed Hermsen’s first multifamily deal fell in his lap, and he got it done fast.

But because that initial success came somewhat easy, Ed hadn’t taken the time to work on his mindset.

He didn’t have a morning routine. He hadn’t practiced writing down his goals. And no one was holding him accountable to take the next steps.

That’s why it took Ed a full two years to buy his second apartment building!

Ed is a former mortgage banker turned full-time real estate investor with a portfolio of four multifamily properties and two RV parks.

He is also the creator of Campground Ventures, a YouTube channel designed to educate investors on the ins and outs of RV parks.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate, Ed explains why he’s the exception to the Law of the First Deal and describes what he did to get back into multifamily investing.

Ed opens up about why he’s self-funded all his deals so far, and we challenge him to overcome his fears around real estate syndications.

Listen in for Ed’s insight on the benefits of investing in RV parks and learn why you need MINDSET plus ACTION to grow your portfolio and achieve financial freedom with real estate!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session391/

MB390: Business Boost with Michael Blank: Fast-Track Your Path to Financial Freedom with a Mentor – With Andrew Elio

Mon, 02 Oct 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Andrew Elio is a 22-year-old recent college graduate, but he already knows that he doesn’t want to work for someone else the rest of his life.

That’s what motivated him to join our Deal Maker Certification program a month ago. At the same time, he started working a full-time job.

How is Andrew juggling both responsibilities? What’s he struggling with? What progress has he made so far?

And what’s the most important thing Andrew can do to accelerate his success?

On this edition of Business Boost with Michael Blank, Andrew shares his anxiety around talking to brokers, and we discuss the role of practice in building confidence.

Andrew describes how he got into the habit of taking consistent action every day, and I discuss the benefits of networking with the Deal Maker Mastermind community.

Listen in as I address Andrew’s questions about what a loan covers (and what it doesn’t) and offer advice on finding an experienced mentor to fast-track his journey to financial freedom!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session390/

MB389: Business Boost with Michael Blank: How to Get Back on Track When Your Multifamily Journey Stalls – With Sudhir Jarajapu

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Sudhir Jarajapu took the first steps on his multifamily investing journey and invested in our mentoring program.

But then he got off track.

In fact, it took Sudhir nine months to work through the first 90 days of the program!

So, what got in the way? And what did Sudhir do to get back in the game?

Welcome to the first of our Business Boost with Michael Blank series on Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, where I do a live coaching session with a new syndicator!

On this episode of the podcast, Sudhir explains what inspired his interest in multifamily investing and why he chose to pursue mentoring with the Michael Blank organization.

Sudhir describes how he struggled to make time for the mentoring program at first and shares how both his mentor and his family eventually held him accountable to take action.

Listen in as I ask Sudhir what he needs support with right now, and we design an action plan to help him achieve financial freedom with real estate!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session389/

MB388: From Simply Doing Deals to Building a Real Estate Business – With Chris Pomerleau

Mon, 18 Sep 2023 01:00:00 -0400

It took Chris Pomerleau four years to realize he didn’t have to replace toilets himself and another four years to realize he didn’t have to do his own books.

That’s when Chris went from simply doing deals to building a real estate business.

So, why does it take most investors so long to scale? And what can YOU do to achieve financial freedom much faster?

Chris is Cofounder of LeavenWealth Capital, a real estate investment firm out of Omaha, Nebraska, with 2,700 multifamily units totaling $211M in assets under management.

Chris also serves as Cofounder and VP of Investment Strategy at Rayven, a Reg A investment business committed to fighting climate change by way of net-zero apartment buildings.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Chris joins me to discuss how he got his start using the BRRRR method with SFHs—until he realized it wasn’t scalable.

Chris explains how he grew his real estate business, describing how he made the shift from borrowing money to raising equity and why having conversations with investors outside his circle was scary at first.

Listen in to understand Chris’ 50/50 approach to real estate partnerships and learn how to think about hiring not as an expense, but as an investment in your multifamily business!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session388/

MB387: Surrounding Yourself with Seasoned Real Estate Investors – With Matt Faircloth

Mon, 11 Sep 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Are you surrounding yourself with people who will get you to the next level?

Five years ago, a group of seasoned multifamily investors got together and established a Mastermind to support each other as we scale our real estate businesses.

And I’m proud to be part of that group with Matt Faircloth, who’s been in real estate full-time since 2005

Matt serves as Owner of DeRosa Group, a multifamily investing firm with a portfolio of 1,800-plus units and $150 million in assets under management.

Matt is also the author of the Amazon bestseller Raising Private Capital: Build Your Real Estate Investing Empire with Other People’s Money.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Matt and I discuss the opportunities we see coming in the multifamily market.

Matt describes the properties in his portfolio that are doing well versus the properties that are struggling, and we brainstorm strategies for dealing with rising insurance rates for multifamily.

Listen in as Matt shares his vision for scaling DeRosa Group and learn about the personal disciplines that contribute to his success!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session387/

MB386: How a ‘Numbers Guy’ Learned to Raise Money for Deals – With Chad Schieler

Mon, 04 Sep 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Chad Schieler saw himself as the numbers guy, so he let partners handle the task of raising money for his first big real estate syndication.

But his team was short. At closing, they had $1M of a $1.4M raise, and Chad had to take out a bridge loan to cover the rest.

That experience inspired Chad to overcome his limiting beliefs around raising money and take his syndication business to the next level.

Today, he is Founder and Principal at Focused Capital, a multifamily firm that helps busy professionals generate passive income and create wealth through real estate investing.

After 17 years running a successful credit card processing service business, Chad became a full-time real estate investor. He is a GP on 139 units and LP on 900-plus!

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Chad explains what he struggled with early in his real estate career, describing his fears of asking for money and the flaw in his underwriting formula.

Chad discusses how investing in a mentor gave him the confidence to take on bigger multifamily deals and shares his approach to building a team as he scales.

Listen in for Chad’s advice on fast-tracking your path to financial freedom and learn how to overcome your limiting beliefs around raising capital and start sharing the opportunity to invest in real estate!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session386 /

MB385: How to Turn Your Business Profits Into Personal Wealth – With Todd Polke

Mon, 28 Aug 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Does your business feel like a black hole?

Are you feeding it all your time, energy and money? But it just keeps sucking away?

Too many business owners get to the end of their career and don’t have much to show for it, selling for next to nothing or simply letting the business fade away.

But what if you could leverage your business profits to build personal wealth?

Todd Polke is an international educator and trainer in the realm of wealth creation and building strategic investment portfolios.

Todd is dedicated to the mission of helping as many people as possible break free from the default and ‘live a life unlimited by income.’

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Todd explains the idea behind his Profits to Portfolio system and how it helps business owners grow their personal wealth.

Todd shares how Australia’s real estate market compares to the US, offering advice on how to navigate the current downturn and prepare to capitalize on opportunities coming down the pike.

Listen in for Todd’s insight on avoiding emotional investment decisions and learn how to leverage a diversified portfolio to build personal wealth—and a lasting legacy.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session385/

MB384: How Real Estate Can Help You Through Challenging Life Experiences – With Rachel Richards

Mon, 21 Aug 2023 01:00:00 -0400

We all go through challenging life experiences, be it the loss of a loved one, a serious illness, or painful divorce.

And the last thing we need in those circumstances is to worry about money.

But what is the best way to build the kind of passive income you need to make it through tough times without stressing about finances?

Rachel Richards is the creator of Money Honey, a financial education platform that helps young women manage their money effectively and achieve financial freedom.

Rachel achieved her own financial independence at the age of 27 with a portfolio of 38 rental units, and she is the bestselling author of Money Honey and Passive Income, Aggressive Retirement.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Rachel explains how she and her then-husband leveraged real estate to reach a passive income goal of $10,000 a month in just three years.

Rachel shares her definition of financial independence and describes how it gave her the opportunity to escape to Italy and heal from a painful divorce.

Listen in for Rachel’s insight on rebuilding after a challenging life experience and learn how real estate can give you the financial independence to pursue what you love!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session384/

MB383: Leveraging AI to Optimize Your Asset Management Strategy – With Marc Rutzen

Mon, 14 Aug 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Asset management can be a real challenge for multifamily operators, especially if you’re managing properties from a distance.

If a site is not working, how do you figure out what’s wrong? Is it the staff? Are rents too high? Do you have too many work orders?

The good news is, new AI tools can give GPs transparency around what’s going on—helping us set pricing, manage expenses and optimize the performance of our real estate assets.

Marc Rutzen is Cofounder and CEO of HelloData.ai, a game-changing platform that is using data science to transform the world of proptech.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Marc joins us to explain why the HelloData team decided to take on asset management.

Marc discusses the weaknesses of traditional revenue management software, describing how HelloData leverages AI to address those problems.

Listen in for Marc’s insight on the potential dangers of AI and learn how HelloData can help you analyze numbers effectively, evaluate your operations and optimize your real estate portfolio!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session383/

MB382: 9 Questions to Ask Before You Invest in Your Next Syndication

Mon, 07 Aug 2023 01:00:00 -0400

A multifamily operator in Houston recently lost 3,200 units to foreclosure.

Is that a sign of calamity to come? Or can we learn from their mistakes and ask better questions before we invest in our next syndication?

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, I walk you through nine important questions to ask before you invest in your next multifamily syndication.

I explain why not-so-good operators (what I like to call NSGOs) are struggling in the current multifamily market and how to differentiate an NSGO from a capable one.

Listen in to understand why it’s a mistake to sit on the sidelines until the real estate market changes and learn how to find great deals right now for pennies on the dollar!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session382/

MB381: How to Grow a $9M Real Estate Portfolio by Age 25 – With Caleb Johnson

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Caleb Johnson’s mother had just had surgery and was living off savings while she recovered.

But after three months, she wasn’t healed and had to make an impossible decision: Return to work in excruciating pain or prolong retirement by several years.

Inspired to help his mother financially and achieve financial freedom himself, Caleb started investing in real estate at the age of 18.

Today, he is the 25-year-old Founder of Red Sea Capital Group, and Caleb has a $9 million real estate portfolio of 117 units.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Caleb joins us to explain how he started his real estate journey with a house hack and then partnered to invest in bigger multifamily deals.

Caleb discusses why it was harder to raise money than he thought and challenges newbie investors to have an experienced partner verify our underwriting early on.

Listen in for Caleb’s insight on persevering through roadblocks and learn where to find partners with the capital and knowhow to help you get a deal done—regardless of your age!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session381/

MB380: Transition to Multifamily Faster by Investing in Yourself – With John Manfredy

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 01:00:00 -0400

So, you’ve got some money set aside to jumpstart your real estate career. What should you invest in?

An apartment building? Mobile home park? Something else?

The answer is no. Don't do any of those things. If you have money to invest, the first thing you should invest in YOURSELF.

John Manfredy has over 30 years of real estate experience as an architect where he was responsible for design, project management and construction supervision for projects budgeted over $500 million.

But when John was laid off during COVID, he transitioned to multifamily investing and development, and today, he serves as Principal at Manifest Multifamily Group.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, John joins us to explain how our mentoring program helped him transition from a W-2 to real estate quickly and avoid mistakes ‘with a lot of zeros behind them.’

John describes how he raised $1.7 million in three days, challenging us to share opportunities with potential investors months in advance and build a team with skills complementary to our own.

Listen in to understand the benefit of sticking with old deals and learn how John reached his real estate goals faster by investing in himself!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session380/

MB379: Leveraging Referrals to Scale Your Real Estate Business – With Dan Reilly and Greg Danielson

Mon, 17 Jul 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Scaling up a multifamily investing business starts with scaling up your capital raise.

And one key strategy for expanding your investor network is to get referrals from friends and family who already invest with you.

But how do you encourage your investors to talk about their experiences? How do you leverage referrals to build momentum in raising money for real estate deals?

Dan Reilly and Greg Danielson are Managing Partners at Measured Capital, a private equity firm that sponsors value-add multifamily investment projects.

Dan and Greg both walked away from lucrative careers for real estate, and since becoming partners in 2022, they have built a portfolio of 500-plus units.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Dan and Greg join us to explain how they overcame limiting beliefs around talking to brokers and scaling up quickly to build a successful multifamily business.

Dan and Greg discuss their decision to invest in Des Moines and Jacksonville, describing how they’re gaining traction in those markets and dealing with deal flow challenges.

Listen in for Dan and Greg’s approach to raising money from their network and get strategic advice on how to land referrals for investors from friends and family.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session379/

MB378: Reinventing Yourself to Achieve Financial Freedom – With PJ Ghadimi

Mon, 10 Jul 2023 01:00:00 -0400

You say you want financial freedom. You want to build wealth and have money for extraordinary experiences.

But if you’re doing what everyone else does, if you’re trying to save your way to wealthy, you’re never going to get results.

So, what do you do if the path you’re on doesn’t lead to the outcomes you want?

PJ Ghadimi is a self-made millionaire who’s taken the world of entrepreneurship by storm. He transitioned out of a lucrative but limited career in banking to build several successful businesses, including Exotic Car Hacks and Watch Trading Academy.

Today, PJ is at the forefront of entrepreneurial education, helping aspiring business owners start their own venture and then grow to the next level of success.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, PJ joins us to share his journey from corporate finance to entrepreneurship and explain how he continues to scale his income exponentially.

PJ offers advice on reinventing yourself in order to level up, challenging you to get better at your craft every day and focus on the person you need to become to achieve your financial goals.

Listen in to understand the connection between financial freedom and fulfilling life experiences and get PJ’s practical tips for aligning your financial plan with what you say you want.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session378/

MB377: Overcoming Low Market Sentiment in Multifamily – With John Casmon

Mon, 03 Jul 2023 01:00:00 -0400

The recent foreclosure on 3,200 units in Houston has investors nervous about putting their money in multifamily.

But does that default mean we should all be sitting on the sidelines?

John Casmon argues that investing in apartments is a business, just like any other. And if we avoid the red flags in the Houston deal, we can (and should) continue business as usual.

John is Head of Acquisitions and Investor Relations at Casmon Capital Group, a multifamily investing firm committed to helping busy professionals achieve financial freedom.

John has invested in over $100 million worth of apartments, and he is passionate about consulting with active multifamily investors to help them start or grow their business.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, John joins us to discuss what mistakes the Houston operators made and how to protect yourself from a similar fate.

John explains how he got started with 2- to 4-unit multifamily properties and shares the breakthrough that gave him the confidence to raise money for bigger deals.

Listen in for John’s insight on overcoming low market sentiment and learn why you should still be analyzing deals and looking for opportunities in apartments right now!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session377/

MB376: How to Build a Powerful Sphere of Influence – With Matt King of GoBundance

Mon, 26 Jun 2023 01:00:00 -0400

You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.

But what if you don’t want the same life as your current sphere of influence? How do you connect with successful people who will help you level up?

Matt King is CEO of GoBundance, a high-level mastermind group for high-achieving men and women who choose to lead epic lives.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, we revisit Matt’s talk at Deal Maker Live 2023 on the importance of building a powerful sphere of influence.

Matt explains how to leverage the power of our subconscious mind, challenging us to create a five-year vision for our life and choose a peer group that holds us accountable to our goals.

Listen in for Matt’s insight on auditing your current sphere of influence and learn how to deliver value to the people you want in your tribe!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session376/

MB375: How to Raise Capital (Even If You’re an Introvert!) – With Camilla Jeffs & Mandy McAllister

Mon, 19 Jun 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Who is better at raising capital, extroverts or introverts?

You might think extroverts have the advantage when it comes to raising money for real estate deals. But the truth is, introverts can be just as good at sourcing funds.

The secret is to embrace your unique personality and approach networking with investors in a way that leverages your strengths.

Mandy McAllister serves as Managing Member at Good Fortune Capital and CEO of GoBundance Women. Camilla Jeffs is Founder and CEO of Steady Stream Investments and Host of the Quiet Wealth podcast.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, we revisit Mandy and Camilla’s talk at Deal Maker Live 2023 around raising capital based on the strengths of your personality.

Mandy describes what makes her good at raising capital as an extrovert, and Camilla explains how being an introvert helps her build strong one-on-one relationships with LPs.

Listen in for Mandy and Camilla’s top ten tips for networking with investors and learn how to tailor these capital raising techniques to fit your distinct personality!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session375/

MB374: A Risk Averse Investor’s Secret to Taking Action – With Nicole Gauthier

Mon, 12 Jun 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Those of us with analytical minds tend to be fairly risk averse.

But entrepreneurship requires that we move forward with incomplete information.

So, what can we do to overcome that fear of the unknown and get into our first real estate deal? How do we develop the confidence to figure things out as we go along?

Nicole Gauthier is Founder of Wicked Holdings, a real estate investment community focused on social change and community empowerment.

Nicole was an accountant in the oil and gas industry before transitioning to real estate, and she has a heart for helping busy professionals build generational wealth through multifamily syndications.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Nicole joins us to discuss how the mantra ‘progress over perfection’ helps her overcome the uncertainty of investing in real estate.

Nicole describes how her education and experience as an LP gave her the confidence to become a multifamily operator and explains how to develop transformational relationships with investors.

Listen in for Nicole’s advice on approaching a potential mentor and learn how to overcome analysis paralysis and take the calculated risks necessary to get into your first real estate deal!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session374/

MB373: What’s the Best Real Estate Investing Strategy for 2023? – With Hayato Hori, Kyle Stanley, Chris Clothier & Henry Washington

Mon, 05 Jun 2023 01:00:00 -0400

What is the best real estate investing strategy for 2023?

Should you try wholesaling? Or invest in Airbnbs? How about fix-and-flips? Turnkey rentals? Or maybe a multifamily syndication?

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Garrett takes on the role of moderator, and we sit down with some big hitters in the industry to debate the pros and cons of each approach.

Kyle Stanley of The Fearless Investor explains why he likes short-term rentals and Hayato Hori of RocketOffr shares the benefits of wholesaling.

I describe the advantages of apartment building investing, Chris Clothier of REI Nation discusses why he prefers turnkeys, and Henry Washington of BiggerPockets explores the opportunities in fix-and-flips in 2023.

Listen in for insight on the risks and challenges associated with each kind of real estate investing and learn which strategy is the quickest path to financial freedom!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session373/

MB372: ADUs as a Steppingstone to Multifamily Investing – With Derek Sherrell

Mon, 29 May 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Are you interested in multifamily investing but overwhelmed by the prospect of buying an entire apartment building?

What if you could dip your toe in the water with accessory dwelling units or ADUs?

The ADU strategy involves either converting a SFH into multiple units or building standalone, detached units on a single family lot.

After several years of building ADUs for clients and friends, Derek Sherrell decided to leverage those skills into developing projects that would help him gain financial independence.

Two decades later, Derek is the real estate investor behind That ADU Guy. His platform teaches the strategy to help others earn passive income and address the affordable housing crisis at the same time.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Derek joins me to discuss the different categories of accessory dwelling units you might consider, convertible ADUs versus standalone, detached units.

Derek walks us through the process for getting permission to build accessory dwelling units, explaining why everyone should consider building an ADU at their primary residence and how to get financing for such a project.

Listen in for Derek’s insight on the profitability of building accessory dwelling units and find out if ADUs are the right steppingstone into YOUR multifamily investing career!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session372/

MB371: Overcome Fear with Practice, Invest with Confidence – With Mai Duong

Mon, 22 May 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Most aspiring real estate investors struggle with fear.

But the ones who become successful GPs work through their fears with practice.

Mai Duong is Harvard-educated CPA with 25 years of experience in corporate finance and accounting.

She is also on the Executive Team at Sunbelt Equity Group, where she has amassed a portfolio of more than 192 multifamily units (and more closings to come).

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Mai joins me to explain what she learned as an LP that helped her become a successful active investor.

Mai describes how she dealt with fears around talking to brokers and raising capital with preparation, challenging us to practice underwriting lots of deals and asking questions in a ‘throwaway market.’

Listen in to understand how Mai’s team is finding deals right now and learn how to adjust your underwriting to overcome your fears and invest with confidence!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session371/

MB370: Finding Your Niche in Short-Term Rentals – With Kyle Stanley

Mon, 15 May 2023 01:00:00 -0400

There are so many ways to invest in real estate. And when you’re first learning about the options, it can get overwhelming.

But the most successful investors niche down to a single strategy, perfect their processes and rinse, repeat to scale.

Kyle Stanley, for example, focuses on short-term rentals, and he has created systems in his business that allow him to work just one or two hours a week!

Kyle is the creator of The Fearless Investor, a platform that helps people learn about the real estate investing game.

He tried several investing strategies before niching down to Airbnb, and nine months in, he was grossing over $25,000 a month!

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Kyle joins Garrett to explain how the short-term rental arbitrage and cohosting models work for aspiring investors who don’t own property themselves.

Kyle shares the mission behind his brand, The Fearless Investor, and challenges aspiring investors to conquer our fears through action.

Listen in for Kyle’s advice on uncovering your real estate investing niche and find out if the short-term rental model is right for you!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session370/

MB369: How to Make Money Flipping Land – With Jon Jasniak

Mon, 08 May 2023 01:00:00 -0400

How do you make money flipping land?

What are the pros and cons of investing in land deals as opposed to other kinds of real estate?

Jon Jasniak started flipping land in 2016 when he was 23 years’ old and working as an engineer. After 18 months of doing both, he quit his job to go into the land game full time.

In the last seven years, Jon has done 700 deals across 7,000 acres and built an eight-figure land business. And in early 2023, he bought an entire town in West Texas!

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Jon joins Garrett to explain how he buys land under value, leveraging seller financing or private money to get into deals.

Jon discusses how he reduces friction in his business by subdividing land and selling it to average people without a title company, marketing on sites like Facebook Marketplace and Lands of America.

Listen in for Jon’s experience buying Cornudas, Texas, and learn how he is adding value to the town and making money in the process!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session369/

MB368: Alternative Investments in Latin America – With Cole Shepherd

Mon, 01 May 2023 01:00:00 -0400

In multifamily real estate, we look for opportunities in a given market and then build relationships with the bankers, brokers, and boots on the ground we need to make a deal work.

But what if the business opportunity you identify is in Asia or Latin America? How do you overcome the language barrier and put together the team you need to build a successful company in a foreign country?

Cole Shepherd is Founder and Partner at Legacy Group, an alternative investment firm based in Colombia that focuses on high-quality LATAM businesses that produce outsized returns for investors.

He's an expert in emerging markets and understanding the capital movements of high-net-worth investors.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Cole joins Garrett to discuss his background in international business and what he learned from working in the ‘professional leagues of capitalism’ overseas.

Cole explains what inspired him to build Legacy Group in Medellin, describing how he started with real estate flips and expanded into commodities, growing Green Coffee Company into Colombia's largest coffee producer.

Listen in for insight on learning the language and culture the place you want to do business and find out how to invest in Green Coffee Company or one of Cole’s other innovative projects at Legacy Group!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session368/

MB367: Alternative Investing in Wine & Whisky – With Maxwell Nee

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Maxwell Nee was drinking an Old Fashioned at a swanky bar in Chicago when he came to appreciate the significant price difference between Macallan 18 and Macallan 12 whisky.

Because it had aged an additional six years, Macallan 18 cost 500% more!

That’s when the lightbulb went off. And Maxwell started looking into wine and whisky as an alternative investment.

Today, Maxwell is Managing Partner at OENO Wine and Whisky Fund, a recession-proof investment fund that leverages the intrinsic value creation in the maturity of fine wine and whisky to earn double-digit returns for investors.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Maxwell joins Garrett to explain what he looks for in a wine or whisky investment deal and how the assets are aged in a warehouse under the best conditions.

Maxwell shares his strategy for maximizing returns for OENO investors and describes the parallels between investing in wine and whisky and value-add real estate.

Listen in to understand the risks associated with wine and whisky as an alternative investment and find out if investing in Maxwell’s fund is right for you!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session367/

MB366: A Low-Risk Approach to Investing in Oil & Gas – With Eric Rice

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Historically, oil and gas operators only give investors the cashflow from wells and keep the land value for themselves.

But King Operating Corporation does things differently, structuring their deals very much like a multifamily syndication.

So, what are the benefits of investing in oil and gas with King Operating? Why is Nighthawk Equity partnering with King to raise money for an energy fund?

Eric Rice is Chief Growth Officer for King Operating, where he oversees investor communications and studies the macro-economic environment and its impact on energy.

[SIGN UP FOR THE APRIL 19TH WEBINAR HERE]

https://nighthawkequity.com/energy

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Eric joins Garrett Lynch and Drew Kniffin to explain how his team finds the right locations to drill and why they pick up deals that are overlooked by other operators.

Eric walks us through the tax benefits of investing in energy and describes why investing with King Operating is safer than other oil and gas investments.

Listen in for insight on the returns you might expect from investing in Eric’s fund and learn why NOW is the right time to put your money in an oil and gas portfolio like King Operating.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session366/

MB365: The Making of a Successful Entrepreneur – With Chris Naugle

Mon, 10 Apr 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Are entrepreneurs born or made?

If you ask Chris Naugle, they are created. But to become a successful entrepreneur, you must be willing to take risks. And you can’t conform to someone else’s failed reality.

As a former pro snowboarder, Chris is good at leaping into the unknown. He applied that risk tolerance to business, building 19 companies in 29 years.

Today, Chris is known as America’s #1 Money Mentor. He runs The Money School, hosts Risky Builders on HGTV, and manages tens of millions of dollars in assets in financial services and real estate transactions.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Chris joins Garrett to explain how he became an entrepreneur at the age of 16 in spite of other people’s opinions.

Chris describes how he navigated challenging times, surviving the dotcom bust, the Great Recession and losing it all in 2014 when the banks said no to a loan and froze his lines of credit.

Listen in for insight into the infinite banking process that turned Chris’ life around and helped him build enough wealth to ‘be the bank’ and invest tens of millions in real estate deals!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session365/

MB364: Investing in Farmland as Part of a Diversified Portfolio – With Artem Milinchuk

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Smart investors diversify their portfolios.

And while multifamily real estate is our favorite asset class, we love learning about other alternatives to the stock market.

Artem Milinchuk suggests investing in farmland, an asset class that does well in times of inflation and appreciates over time.

Artem is Founder and Head of Strategy at FarmTogether, a platform that makes it easy for anyone to invest in farmland.

He has 14 years of finance experience in food, agriculture and farmland, serving as CFO at Full Harvest Technologies before building FarmTogether five years ago.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Artem joins Garrett to explain how FarmTogether syndicates capital online for farmland deals.

Artem discusses why farmland is a relatively safe long-term investment, who manages FarmTogether’s farms and what kind of return his investors can expect on row versus permanent crops.

Listen in for Artem’s insight on the tax benefits of investing in farmland and learn how to leverage the FarmTogether platform to diversify your portfolio with sustainable farmland.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session364/

MB363: Achieving Financial Freedom as a Passive Investor – With Spencer Hilligoss

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Is your financial advisor really looking out for you?

Many investors question whether their FA has their best interests at heart. But seeking out alternative investments on your own can be scary, especially if the stock market is all you’ve ever known.

So, what can you do to learn more about alternative investments like self-storage, cryptocurrency, ATMs or real estate? And can you achieve financial freedom in just a few years as a passive investor?

Spencer Hilligoss is a former technology executive with a 13-year track record building high performing teams across five companies. He and his wife, Jennifer, achieved financial freedom through passive investing in multifamily and other alternative asset classes.

Today, Spencer serves as Cofounder and CEO of Madison Investing, a platform that helps busy professionals generate passive income through vetted real estate investments.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Spencer joins Garrett and me to explain how he educated himself around alternative investments like mobile home parks, data centers and multifamily syndications.

Spencer discusses the framework he and Jennifer created to make good investment decisions, describing what they look for in a deal and how they vet an operator.

Listen in for Spencer’s insight on breaking into a new asset class and find out where he sees opportunities for investors in 2023 and beyond!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session363/

MB362: How to Use Your IRA or 401(k) to Invest in Real Estate – With Henry Yoshida

Mon, 20 Mar 2023 01:00:00 -0400

When I first started raising money for real estate syndications, I had lunch with a prospective investor who was interested but didn’t have the $50,000 minimum it took to get in on the deal.

But then I asked, ‘Do you have an IRA or anything?’ And it turned out he had $500,000 sitting in his retirement account. $500,000 he could use to buy real estate.

So, how do we educate potential investors about the opportunity to invest through a retirement account? What steps can passive investors take to shift money from a 401(k) or IRA into real estate?

Henry Yoshida, CFP, is the Founder and CEO of Rocket Dollar, a web platform that lets people invest tax advantaged retirement monies into private alternative investments.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Henry joins Garrett and me to explain what alternative investments you can and cannot invest in using 401(k) or IRA money.

Henry walks us through the process of moving retirement money into a self-directed account and describes the differences between traditional custodians and self-directed capable custodians like Rocket Dollar.

Listen in to understand the pros and cons of investing with an IRA versus cash and learn how Rocket Dollar accelerates the process of investing in stock market alternatives like multifamily syndications!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session362/

MB361: Why Real Estate Investors Need the Right Coach – With Faisal Ensaun & Dr. Sheri Fluellen

Mon, 13 Mar 2023 01:00:00 -0400

You have all the skills you need to become a successful multifamily investor. But without the right mindset, you’re unlikely to achieve financial freedom.

So, what can aspiring investors do to overcome the limiting beliefs and bad habits that are holding them back?

Faisal Ensaun has coached more than 2,000 entrepreneurs, CEOs, executives and athletes, guiding them to connect with their vision and potential.

Dr. Sheri Fluellen is a psychologist and coach who works exclusively with real estate investors, helping them maximize their life contribution through real estate investing.

Together, Faisal and Sheri are the creators of the Coaching Mastery Community, where they teach other coaches to develop their coaching ability and business practice.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Faisal and Sheri join Garrett and me to discuss the mindset issues that keep newbie investors stuck, describing how a lack of vision prevents us from achieving our goals.

Sheri offers advice on vetting a coach to find the right one for you, and Faisal explains why you need a someone who’s battled on their own path to success.

Listen in to understand how a coach’s support extends beyond real estate and learn how a high-performance coach can help YOU become a successful investor with an awesome life!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session361/

MB360: Give More to the Missions You Believe In with Real Estate – With Burnie Lund

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Most of us get into real estate investing because we want to quit our jobs. But Burnie Lund is different.

Though he’s already achieved financial freedom, Burnie has no intention of leaving his ministry work. In fact, he got into multifamily so he could give more to the missions he believes in.

Burnie is a pastor and multifamily real estate investor with a portfolio of 105 units. He focuses on the ‘common man’ as his target market, allowing people to invest as little as $5,000 in his deals.

Burnie is also a former mentoring student of ours and served as the subject of our deal analysis at Deal Maker Bootcamp 2023.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Burnie joins Garrett and me to explain how a desire to give back fueled his interest in real estate and why he invested in the support of a mentor early on.

Burnie discusses the role his faith plays in running his business and describes how he pitches passive investors by appealing to their sense of stewardship and desire to do good in the world.

Listen in to understand how relationships win real estate deals and get Burnie’s advice on committing and then taking consistent action every day to amplify your impact with real estate!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session360/

MB359: Apply Cardone Capital’s Tactics to Scale Your Syndication Business – With Jarrod Glandt

Mon, 27 Feb 2023 01:00:00 -0400

The name Grant Cardone is synonymous with scale. Each new venture he launches quickly grows 10X bigger than anyone else in the business.

So, what drives that desire to push the boundaries of what’s possible? How might you apply the same principles to scale your real estate syndication business?

Jarrod Glandt is President of Grant Cardone Enterprises, where he has served as Grant’s right-hand man for the last 12 years and helped grow company revenues from $2M in annual sales to well over nine figures.

Jarrod is also Cohost of Young Hustlers, a podcast that offers its millennial audience tips on sales, marketing, money and entrepreneurship.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Jarrod joins Garrett Lynch and me to give us a look under the hood at Grant Cardone Enterprises.

Jarrod discusses the benefit of building a brand before you raise capital for real estate deals and describes how to apply Cardone Capital’s marketing tactics to your syndication business.

Listen in for insight on creating a culture of accountability on your multifamily team and learn how to leverage what Jarrod calls ‘divine discontentment’ to do the next big thing in your business!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session359/

MB358: Why Numbers Are the Source of Truth in Real Estate – With Jason Baik

Mon, 20 Feb 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Words hide red flags in a real estate deal. But numbers are the source of truth.

So, what numbers should you be looking at when you evaluate a multifamily deal?

Jason Baik is Managing Principal at Compounding Capital Group and Founder of The Underwriting Lab, a platform that helps aspiring multifamily investors learn a data-driven approach to apartment investing.

An ex-VP of Data Science, Jason left his six-figure corporate career to become a full-time investor before he owned a single property! Two years later, he has built a portfolio of 350 apartment units and seven single family homes.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Jason joins me to explain how the data pointed him to real estate as the best vehicle for generational wealth and why he transitioned to multifamily investing early on.

Jason discusses how he connected with his business partner at Compounding Capital, describing what makes their partnership work and how they’re adjusting their underwriting right now.

Listen in for insight on how Jason used the Syndicated Deal Analyzer to launch his multifamily career and learn how understanding the numbers helps you analyze risk and make the right decisions for your investing journey!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session358/

MB357: Scale Your Capital Raise from $4M to $294M in 5 Years – With Dan Handford

Mon, 13 Feb 2023 01:00:00 -0400

When Dan Handford got into multifamily syndications in 2018, he raised $4M. By 2022, he had scaled his capital raise to $294M.

What’s his secret? How did Dan grow his investor database to nearly 1,700 and his portfolio to 4,000+ doors in just five years?

Dan is Managing Partner of PassiveInvesting.com, a real estate investing firm with $1.2B in assets under management based in the Carolinas.

Dan’s syndication company began with a focus on multifamily but has expanded include self-storage, carwashes and hotels.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Dan sits down with Garrett and me to explain how he worked his way up from passive investor to co-GP to lead syndicator.

Dan discusses how he finds new investors with an online authority platform and grows his team along with his real estate portfolio.

Listen in to understand why Dan is diversifying across asset classes and learn how to scale your capital raise, your team and your portfolio value in just a few short years!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session357/

MB356: Brilliant Strategies to Raise Capital for Real Estate – With Brad Blazar

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 01:00:00 -0400

When you’re raising capital for a real estate deal, it’s tempting to pitch potential investors right away.

But if you try to sell a high-net-worth individual before you’ve established trust, your chances of conversion are slim to none.

So, how do you make meaningful connections with HNWIs and build trust in a way that makes them want to invest with you?

Brad Blazar is the creator of Capital School, one of the fastest growing communities for entrepreneurs, business owners and CEOs learning to attract, raise and close high-net-worth investors.

Having raised well over $2 billion for his own businesses, Brad is a sought-after speaker on the subject of raising capital and author of Winning at the Capital Game: Using Other People’s Money to Build Wealth.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Brad joins me to explain what works in building relationships with high-net-worth individuals, walking us through the steps he takes to establish trust prior to a pitch.

Brad discusses how to stay in contact with potential investors while you’re waiting for a live deal and describes what he’s doing to raise capital in an uncertain economic environment.

Listen in for insight around raising private equity money for real estate deals and learn Brad’s genius strategies for connecting with potential investors—at traditional networking events or a nearby Starbucks!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session356/

MB355: Our Multifamily Market Outlook for 2023 – With Drew Kniffin

Mon, 30 Jan 2023 01:00:00 -0400

As with most things, the economy goes through different seasons. And prior to the pandemic, it was red-hot summer in the real estate market.

COVID caused a quick Arctic freeze, but things warmed up again and multifamily prices peaked in March 2022.

Then we skipped fall and landed right in winter.

And while it’s hard to predict how long this season might last, there are things we can do to endure the cold and put ourselves in a position to thrive in the coming spring.

Drew Kniffin serves as Partner at Nighthawk Equity where he manages all aspects of our $300M portfolio, including acquisitions, asset management and raising capital.

Prior to joining Nighthawk, Drew enjoyed a successful career in corporate finance and grew a portfolio of 400 of his own residential units.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Drew sits down with Garrett and me to discuss the economic trends we’re monitoring closely at Nighthawk and how the team has adjusted to the changing multifamily market.

We explain how rising interest rates are squeezing your average operator and why we expect a flood of opportunities to buy in the next 12 to 18 months.

Listen in to understand why apartments are an excellent investment in an economic winter and get our multifamily market outlook for 2023!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session355/

MB354: Retire in 3 Years with This Deal Analysis Tool – with Matthew Amabile

Mon, 23 Jan 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Matthew Amabile had been out of college for a year. He was making decent money at his sales job, but not enough to afford his own place. And he was tired of sleeping on his cousin’s couch.

That’s when Matt started looking into real estate and analyzing deals. Three years later, he’s a 25-year-old millionaire. And he quit his 9-to-5 to travel the world.

So, what gave Matt the confidence to buy his first property? Or build trust with potential investors?

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Matt joins me to explain how he leveraged an FHA loan and a little resourcefulness to house hack his first four-unit building.

Matt describes how his view of networking has changed over time, discussing how he connected with a partner to buy his second and third deals.

Listen in for insight around the tool that gave Matt the confidence to talk to owners and investors and find out why you don’t need money or experience to be successful—as long as you know how to analyze deals!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session354/

MB353: The Right Insurance Coverage for Your Real Estate Portfolio – With Matthew Sutika

Mon, 16 Jan 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Are you treating insurance like a commodity?

We made that same mistake early in our syndication journey. But now we look for the best combination of value and quality we can get.

Matthew Sutika is Chief Insurance Officer at Obie, a company working to provide a simple, affordable and transparent insurance experience for landlords and investors.

Matt is an award-winning entrepreneur and business owner in the multifamily and habitational insurance sector. He also invests in real estate and early-stage insurance and tech startups.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Matt joins me to explore the false beliefs investors have about insurance and explain what coverage decisions to look at with your insurance broker after close.

Matt offers advice on getting insurance costs right in your underwriting, sharing his list of GOTCHAS that drive up premiums for multifamily.

Listen in for Matt’s insight on managing rising insurance costs and find out if Obie Insurance is the right fit for you and your syndication business!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session353/

MB352: Investing in Oil & Gas vs. Real Estate Syndications – With Grant Norwood

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Did you know that there are many parallels between investing in oil and gas and real estate syndications?

Grant Norwood is CEO of Norwood Energy Corp, an oil and gas exploration company out of Southlake, Texas.

Grant’s specialty is recognizing opportunity hotspots in undiscovered areas of the country where his team can operate significantly below the costs of oil giants like Exxon or Chevron.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Grant joins Garrett to discuss the two kinds of deals Norwood Energy does, investing in new wells or distressed assets.

Grant shares what he does to find off-market deals on wells and walks us through the tax advantages of investing in oil and gas assets.

Listen in for Grant’s insight on financing oil and gas deals and learn the similarities between investing in energy and multifamily syndications.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session352/

MB351: Reflecting on 2022 & Setting Goals for 2023

Mon, 02 Jan 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Mindfulness matters. The more self-aware you become, the better your relationships and the more fulfillment you get out of life.

That’s why I take an entire week off at the end of every year, not to eat bonbons, but to reflect on the past 12 months, celebrate my wins and plan for the future.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, I’m sharing my process for evaluating 2022 and looking ahead to 2023.

I discuss what we achieved at the Michael Blank Brands and Nighthawk Equity in 2022 and explain our goals for the coming year, challenging you to set aims in each of the same 7 areas of your personal and professional life.

Listen in for insight into the multifamily market outlook and get my advice for investors on where to look for opportunities in 2023!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session351/

MB350: The Best of 2022 on Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing – With Jerome Maldonado, Jilliene Helman, Dan Brisse, Lee Prosenjak, Veena Jetti, Sterling Griffin, Lili Thompson, Ryan Pineda, Liz Faircloth, Savannah Arroyo, Julie Holly & Alvin ‘Hope’ Johnson

Mon, 26 Dec 2022 01:00:00 -0400

Every week, we bring you conversations with elite investors and entrepreneurs, in hopes that you’ll learn from their experiences to accelerate your success.

On this Best of 2022 edition of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, we reflect on some of our favorite episodes and share the top insights from this year’s interviews with inspiring real estate entrepreneurs.

We revisit Dan Brisse’s story of transitioning from professional snowboarder to full-time real estate investor and Jilliene Helman’s mission to democratize real estate investing.

Lee Prosenjak inspires us to live our purpose, Veena Jetti explains how to raise capital at scale, and Sterling Griffin shares creative ways to add value to high-profile people as you build a network.

Listen in to understand how Alvin ‘Hope’ Johnson is innovating in affordable housing and learn to fast-track your success with advice from ten of our top guests of 2022!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session350/

MB349: How to Build a Syndication Business That Runs Itself – With Mike Michalowicz

Mon, 19 Dec 2022 01:00:00 -0400

There's a lot of pundits who say that entrepreneurship is about the hustle and grind. We’re supposed to work harder and harder and sacrifice our lives for the sake of the business.

But Mike Michalowicz argues that entrepreneurship is not about doing the job. It’s about creating jobs.

So, how do you remove yourself from the day-to-day operation of your business? Can you get to a point where your syndication firm runs itself?

Mike Michalowicz is a well-known keynote speaker and bestselling author on a mission to eradicate entrepreneurial poverty.

Mike has built four multimillion-dollar companies and exited two. But he has also launched ten failed businesses and lost his fortune twice.

And it is those struggles that inspired Mike to serve other entrepreneurs through books like Profit First: Transform Your Business from a Cash-Eating Monster to a Money-Making Machine and Clockwork: Design Your Business to Run Itself.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Mike joins Garrett and me to discuss the premise of Profit First, describing how to prioritize profit by treating it like a business expense.

Mike challenges us to overcome superhero syndrome and take on the role of supervisionary in our business, building a team to handle the day-to-day while we think strategically about growing the company.

Listen in for Mike’s surprising advice on planning a four-week vacation that forces you to put systems in place and empower your people to run the business without you!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session349/

MB348: Building Confidence Through Community – With Julie Holly

Mon, 12 Dec 2022 01:00:00 -0400

How does a schoolteacher overcome her limiting beliefs to become a full-time syndicator?

For Julie Holly, community was key in helping her shift from anxious single-family landlord to self-assured multifamily GP.

Julie is Founder of Three Keys Investments, a multifamily firm committed to helping investors build passive income and legacy wealth. She also serves as Host of The Conscious Investor Podcast.

Julie began her career as a schoolteacher with a portfolio of single-family homes before transitioning to syndications. Today, she’s a passive investor in 300 doors, she's partnered in 68 units and GP for another 120.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Julie joins me to explain how Arnold Schwarzenegger launched her investing career and what she did to overcome the WHAT IF mindset that held her back early on.

Julie discusses why now is the right time to get into multifamily investing and describes how she is adjusting her underwriting to protect her LPs.

Listen in for Julie’s insight on building confidence through community and get inspired to invest in yourself as you take the next step in YOUR real estate investing journey!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session348/

MB347: Why Every Syndicator Should Write a Book – With Chandler Bolt

Mon, 05 Dec 2022 01:00:00 -0400

Building a platform is an important part of raising money at scale. But you need more than a website to demonstrate your credibility with potential investors.

Becoming an author gives you authority. It allows you to share your investing thesis with many, many prospects and generate leads as well as referrals.

But what does the process of writing a book look like? And why would you publish yet another real estate book when there are already so many others on the market?

Chandler Bolt is Founder and CEO of Self-Publishing School, a platform that has helped 7,000 entrepreneurs publish books in the last 7 years.

Chandler also serves as host of the Self-Publishing School Podcast and author of six bestselling books. His latest release is called Published: The Proven Path from Blank Page to 100,000 Copies Sold.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Chandler joins Garrett and me to explain what writing a good book does for your business and how to use a book to build your email list.

Chandler walks us through the eight milestones in the process of writing a quality book and shares his best practices for finishing a rough draft in just 30 days!

Listen in for Chandler’s insight on having a successful book launch and learn how to write a bestseller that attracts potential investors to your real estate syndication business.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session347/

MB346: How to Own 1,000 Doors by Age 27 – With Adrian Salazar

Mon, 28 Nov 2022 01:00:00 -0400

How do you become a full-time investor who owns more than 1,000 doors by the age of 27?

According to Adrian Salazar, the secret is having the guts to go out and be different.

Adrian started wholesaling SFHs as a freshman in college and closed on his first apartment building as a sophomore. Today, he is Managing Member at Two Ten Management, and he controls $8.8M in multifamily assets.

On this episode of the podcast, Adrian joins Garrett and me to explain how the sales skills he developed early on help him succeed as a young real estate entrepreneur.

Adrian shares the wholesaling strategies he uses to find off-market deals and describes his approach to building rapport with owners.

Listen in for Adrian’s advice on putting yourself in the right rooms and learn to take action on YOUR real estate investing goals—no matter how young or old you are!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session345/

MB345: Growing Your Business & Family—with Vivian & Michael Blank

Mon, 21 Nov 2022 01:00:00 -0400

Running a business is never just about the business. Being a successful entrepreneur means finding balance between your personal and professional life.

But if you want your relationship to work, you need a partner who energizes you. Someone who helps you become the best version of yourself.

So, how does a real estate investor build a fulfilling family life? How do you successfully navigate marriage, parenthood and business?

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Garrett sits down with me and my wife Vivian to find out what makes our 25-year marriage work.

Vivian and I explain why we struggled with working on the business together and how we set boundaries around work and family time.

Listen in to understand why we decided to homeschool our kids and learn how we set goals as a family to live intentionally, in alignment with our values!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session345/

MB344: Making the Most of IRC Section 1031 – With Dave Foster

Mon, 14 Nov 2022 01:00:00 -0400

One of the beautiful things about investing in real estate is its tax benefits. And the 1031 exchange is a common strategy we use to avoid paying capital gains.

But most of us haven’t studied IRC Section 1031 enough to know ALL the ways we can use the tax code to reinvest our real estate profits—rather than handing them over to Uncle Sam.

Dave Foster is the 1031 exchange expert, qualified intermediary and tax strategist behind The 1031 Investor, a platform that helps investors build and preserve real estate wealth.

Dave has supported thousands of investors in achieving financial freedom by maximizing their reinvestment opportunities.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Dave joins Garrett to discuss the rules for doing a 1031 exchange in a syndication and describe what to look for in a qualified intermediary or QI.

Dave shares his top strategies for buying time in a like-kind exchange and walks us through the tax benefits of converting an investment property into your primary residence.

Listen in to understand the common mistakes investors make in a 1031 exchange and learn how to make the most of the tax code and accelerate your path to financial freedom with real estate!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session344/

MB343: Owning Property in Chicago’s Most Dangerous Neighborhoods

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 01:00:00 -0400

Owning class D properties in neighborhoods plagued by gang violence, prostitution and drug abuse is not easy.

But it does give an owner-operator the street smarts to keep themselves, their employees and properties safe. And it makes for some pretty crazy stories!

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Garrett follows up on his previous solo episode with more stories from his experience as an investor in Chicago’s most dangerous neighborhoods.

Garrett discusses what he did to prevent theft at vacant multifamily properties and describes how firing a maintenance worker nearly caused a gang war at one of his buildings.

Listen in for the story of how Garrett’s maintenance team caught a killer and find out what it’s like to collect rent at night not too far from Chicago’s infamous O Block.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session343/

MB342: What Investors Need to Know About Taxes – With Thomas Castelli

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 01:00:00 -0400

All CPAs are not created equal. And if you’re working with an accountant who doesn’t understand real estate tax strategy, you may be leaving tens of thousands of dollars on the table.

Thomas Castelli, CPA, CFP, is Partner at Hall CPA, an entrepreneurial accounting firm that helps real estate investors minimize tax and maximize profit.

Out of college, Thomas landed a ‘dream job’ at a traditional accounting firm but soon realized he wasn’t on the path to the lifestyle he wanted. To achieve financial freedom, he built a portfolio of passive investments in apartment buildings before participating in his first deal as an active partner.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Thomas joins Garrett and me to discuss why he chose to put his money in multifamily over other investments.

Thomas offers a high-level overview of how the taxation of real estate works, explaining who benefits from bonus depreciation and why we can report a loss despite earning substantial cashflow.

Listen in for Thomas’ top strategies for deferring capital gains and find out why tax planning is so important for real estate investors!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session343/

MB341: How the Supply Chain Impacts Real Estate – With Jeff Davis

Mon, 24 Oct 2022 01:00:00 -0400

In the spring of 2020, store shelves were empty. And supply chain issues have disrupted businesses of all kinds ever since—including real estate.

But what, exactly, is causing these problems in the supply chain? And when will things get back to normal?

Jeff Davis is both a supply chain expert and real estate investor, serving as a senior sales executive for a Fortune 100 global logistics firm and Managing Partner at Bridgestone Holdings, where he has built a portfolio of 952 units.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Jeff joins Garrett and me to explain what is causing our ongoing supply chain issues and why things haven’t normalized since the pandemic.

Jeff discusses how rising interest rates impact the supply chain and shares his take on when construction costs might return to pre-COVID levels.

Listen in for Jeff’s insight on underwriting deals in the current economic environment and learn how to navigate supply chain concerns as a multifamily investor.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session342/

MB340: Upgrade Investor Relations Through Syndication Software – With Perry Zheng

Mon, 17 Oct 2022 01:00:00 -0400

When you’re a new real estate syndicator with a smaller network, you can keep track of investors with a spreadsheet and work through the process of raising money manually.

But as you grow your investor database, it becomes more and more tedious to do things this way.

The good news is, you can leverage investor management software to automate the process of drafting legal documents and wiring money, saving yourself and your investors a lot of time and trouble.

So, how do you choose an investor portal that’s the right fit for you and your syndication business?

Perry Zheng is Founder and CEO of Cash Flow Portal, a real estate syndication platform that helps syndicators streamline the process of raising equity, automate operations and attract more investors.

Perry began his career as a software engineer, taking on roles at Twitter, Amazon and Lyft. He has also acted as lead sponsor on three apartment syndications, raising $20M to build a portfolio of 850 units.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Perry joins Garrett and me to explain how his frustrations with the process of raising capital inspired the creation of Cash Flow Portal.

Perry discusses how GPs and LPs alike benefit from using an investor management platform and describes what differentiates Cash Flow Portal from other syndication software on the market.

Listen in for Perry’s insight on vetting investor management software and find out if Cash Flow Portal is the right long-term partner for you!

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session340/

MB339: Tokenizing Real Estate Deals – With Michael Flight

Mon, 10 Oct 2022 01:00:00 -0400

Michael Flight used to be a crypto-skeptic. But as he learned more about the blockchain and its potential to make real estate more accessible to a wider audience, he became a crypto-innovator.

Today, Michael is CEO of Liberty Real Estate Fund LLC, the world’s first net lease security token fund. With 34 years of investing experience, he is leveraging the blockchain to tokenize ownership of high-quality commercial real estate.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Michael joins me to explain how his beliefs around freedom drew him to blockchain technology.

Michael describes the connections between real estate and the blockchain, discussing how it makes syndications more accessible and solves the liquidity problem in multifamily investing.

Listen in to understand how the SEC governs tokenized real estate deals and learn how to take the first steps in offering a multifamily syndication on the blockchain.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session341/

MB338: Invest in Real Estate Via Creative Financing – With Christian Osgood

Mon, 03 Oct 2022 01:00:00 -0400

No matter what asset class you want to invest in, creativity is key—especially if you don’t have a rich uncle to help you get started!

You just have to stop asking yourself, ‘Can I do this?’ And start asking yourself, ‘How can I do this?’

Christian Osgood left his sales job with CoStar Group to become a full-time investor at age 29. And in the last 18 months, he leveraged creative financing to build a portfolio of 95 units.

Today, he is Cofounder of Multifamily Strategy, a platform that helps others achieve financial freedom with real estate and take back control of their lives.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Christian joins Garrett and me to discuss his top creative strategies for buying property, challenging us to think beyond price when we negotiate a deal.

Christian walks us through the fundamentals of seller financing, explaining how he introduces himself to property owners and why he focuses on understanding their goals to build a strong relationship.

Listen in for Christian’s insight on using Google Maps to ‘drive for dollars’ and learn his formula for finding creative ways to close a real estate deal.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session338/

MB337: Collaborating with Your Property Management Team – With Nathan Ridgeway

Mon, 26 Sep 2022 01:00:00 -0400

When I got started in multifamily, I was much too hands-off with property managers. Yes, I reviewed the numbers, but otherwise, I stayed away and simply let them manage everything.

Then I realized that experienced syndicators are much more actively involved with their property management companies, and we started to build more collaborative relationships.

So, where is the sweet spot between too hands-off and too involved? What does a healthy relationship between property managers and ownership groups look like?

Nathan Ridgeway is Regional Vice President at First Communities, one of the nation’s most successful property management companies.

Founded in 1978, FCM has managed over 200K units in 100K communities, growing their market reach to include Washington DC, Dallas, Austin, Houston, Atlanta, Charlotte and Nashville.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Nathan joins Garrett and me to discuss the relationship between property management companies and ownership groups.

Nathan explains what differentiates FCM from other property management companies, describing his team’s approach to building a deep bench in a given market and managing expectations with ownership groups.

Listen in for Nathan's advice on vetting a property manager and learn how to strike the right balance between trusting your management team and verifying their performance.

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session337/

MB336: How to Launch Your Own Real Estate Fund – With Bridger Pennington

Mon, 19 Sep 2022 05:00:10 -0400

Think you need an Ivy League education or 20 years of experience on Wall Street to set up a fund?

Think again!

Once you've done a handful of syndications, you can easily launch a fund of your own and simplify the process of raising money for multiple real estate deals.

Bridger Pennington is Cofounder and CEO of Fund Launch, an education platform that helps aspiring fund managers launch, build and scale a fund. Fund Launch has served more than 20K students with its hundreds of videos and dozens of downloadable assets.

Bridger also serves as Founder of Black Bridge Holdings, where he established multiple funds and facilitated more than 326 transactions across a variety of industries.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Bridger joins Garrett and me to discuss what differentiates a real estate syndication from a fund, describing when it's appropriate to start raising capital through a fund and how the process changes.

Bridger walks us through the pros and cons of raising money with a fund, explaining how it allows you to scale your business faster and close on a good deal more quickly.

Listen in for Bridger's insight on generating excitement around investing in a fund and find out how to launch a fund of your own and raise a huge pool of capital from investors for real estate deals!

For full episode show notes visit:

http://www.themichaelblank.com/session336/

MB335: Serve Investors by Solving Their Problems – With Travis Watts

Mon, 12 Sep 2022 05:00:13 -0400

Investor relations is not about selling a deal. It’s about getting to know individual investors and solving their problems.

But what does that look like in practice? How do you connect with potential LPs and educate them around the benefits of investing in multifamily syndications?

Travis Watts is Director of Investor Education at Ashcroft Capital. He got his start in real estate in 2009, investing in single family and short-term rentals.

Travis became a passive investor with Ashcroft several years ago and was so impressed with their performance that he offered to join the Investor Relations Team in 2019.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Travis joins Garrett and me to explain why he transitioned from active investing in single family to passive investing in syndications.

Travis describes how he attracts new investors at Ashcroft and walks us through the pros and cons of raising capital through a fund.

Listen in for Travis’ best practices for taking care of investors and learn how to serve your LPs and solve their problems to grow your syndication business.

For full episode show notes visit:

http://www.themichaelblank.com/session335/

MB334: From Homeless to Multi-Millionaire in 2 Years – With Sterling Griffin

Mon, 05 Sep 2022 05:00:55 -0400

Proximity is power. But how do you get in front of successful people when you're struggling yourself?

Sterling Griffin was homeless when he made the decision to surround himself with the people he wanted to become. Then he found creative ways to add value so they'd want to be friends.

And in just two years, Sterling went from living in his Honda Accord to making $1.68M.

Today, Sterling serves as Founder of Life Changer Academy and Sterling Capital, a real estate firm that provides high-net-worth individuals with access to tax-advantaged investments.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Sterling joins cohost Garrett Lynch to share his journey to becoming a millionaire, explaining how he borrowed money and sold his car to invest in a mentor and why he's committed to inspiring others to see more for themselves too.

Sterling describes his transition from fitness trainer to business coach to real estate investor, discussing his decision to focus on triple net lease investing and the tax advantages of accelerated depreciation.

Listen in for Sterling's insight on finding the right people to learn from and learn creative ways to add value to high-profile people who will help you grow to the next level of success!

For full episode show notes visit:

http://www.themichaelblank.com/session334/

MB333: Innovating Around Affordable Housing – With Alvin ‘Hope’ Johnson

Mon, 29 Aug 2022 05:00:59 -0400

The lack of affordable housing is a big problem in the US. And most developers shy away from these projects because it’s hard to make money.

But Alvin ‘Hope’ Johnson is not most developers. He’s found a way to innovate in the affordable housing space and ‘do good while doing good.’

Alvin is President of the Hope Housing Foundation, a nonprofit positioned to be one of the country’s most effective affordable workforce housing organizations.

He also serves as CEO of Multifamily Monopoly, an education platform for real estate developers interested in the process of multifamily development and ownership.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Alvin joins Garrett and me to discuss his journey from painting houses to $225M multifamily entrepreneur and describe the tenacity it took to find a mentor in the space.

Alvin shares his successes in affordable housing so far, explaining how he’s turning neighborhoods around, building sustainable workforce housing developments, and making a profit in the process.

Listen in for Alvin’s insight on pursuing a mission-driven business and learn how to leverage innovation to make money building naturally occurring affordable housing.

For full episode show notes visit:

http://www.themichaelblank.com/session333/

MB332: Avoid Lawsuits & Protect Your Real Estate Assets – With Garrett Sutton

Mon, 22 Aug 2022 05:00:51 -0400

As real estate investors, we spend years building up generational wealth. But a single lawsuit can tear it all down.

So, how do we put the right asset protection measures in place?

Garrett Sutton is the corporate attorney and asset protection expert behind Corporate Direct, a firm that helps entrepreneurs and investors protect their assets, maintain their privacy and achieve their financial goals.

Garrett is also one of Robert Kiyosaki’s Rich Dad Advisors and the bestselling author of several books, including his new release, Veil Not Fail: Protecting Your Personal Assets from Business Attacks.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Garrett joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to explain why asset protection is crucial for real estate investors at all levels.

Garrett discusses why an LLC is the best way for syndicators and apartment owners to structure a business and walks us through the most common mistakes people make when it comes to asset protection.

Listen in for Garrett’s advice on what insurance you need as a real estate investor and learn what steps you can take to protect both your personal assets and property from lawsuits.

For full episode show notes visit:

http://www.themichaelblank.com/session332/

MB331: 10 Years in Single Family vs. 10 Months as Multifamily Investors – With Lance Doty & Adam Mitchell

Mon, 15 Aug 2022 05:00:30 -0400

For 20 years, Adam Mitchell has been dreaming of a multifamily portfolio. But without the confidence or the know-how to invest in apartments, he started with single family.

A decade ago, Adam joined forces with his friend Lance Doty, and they became the Home Buying Guys, scaling a successful single family investing business that runs on autopilot.

But in 2021, Adam took action on his vision of moving into the multifamily space and invited Lance to join him in the transition. They became the Apartment Buying Guys, and within 35 days, they had 225 units under contract.

In just 10 months, Adam and Lance have raised over $2M and acquired 731 units. Both have achieved financial freedom, and they are well on their way to the goal of 1,000 doors in five years.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Adam and Lance join Garrett and me to explain why it took them so long to make the move to multifamily and how they overcame their lack of experience to break into the space.

Adam and Lance discuss the value of hiring a mentor, describing how they might have accelerated their journey by getting support sooner and why they’re focusing on scale from Day One.

Listen in for insight on what makes Lance and Adam’s partnership work and learn how to make the leap from single family to apartment building investing—and achieve financial freedom in three years or less!

For full episode show notes visit:

http://www.themichaelblank.com/session331/

MB330: The Competitive Advantage of In-House Construction – With Jorge Abreu

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 05:00:22 -0400

When we started investing in multifamily, we relied on property managers to handle construction.

As the business grew, we hired GCs to run construction projects with little oversight on our part. And got very mixed results.

That’s when we realized that if we wanted to scale our multifamily portfolio, we needed an in-house team. But how do you build a construction arm for your real estate business?

Jorge Abreu is Cofounder and CEO of Elevate Commercial Investment Group, a multifamily firm based in Dallas, Texas, and Founder of JNT Construction, the in-house construction arm of Elevate CIG.

With 15 years of experience in real estate, Jorge has acquired a portfolio of nearly 7,000 units worth more than $500M.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Jorge explains why he started his own construction company and how JNT gives Elevate a competitive advantage.

Jorge walks us through the process he used to build an in-house construction business, describing what he looks for in a project manager and how he leverages software to hold the team accountable.

Listen in for Jorge’s insight on the importance of construction contracts and learn how an in-house construction team can help YOU scale your syndication business!

For full episode show notes visit:

http://www.themichaelblank.com/session330/

MB329: Applying a Sales Mindset to Multifamily Investing – With Eric Chadderdon

Mon, 01 Aug 2022 05:00:06 -0400

Not everyone who wants to be a real estate investor sticks with it long enough to be successful. But if you apply a sales mindset to multifamily investing, you will be able to take the initial rejection and keep pushing.

Because as Eric Chadderdon says, ‘The only time you lose in this business is if you quit.’

Eric is Managing Partner at Gibby’s Capital Investments, a boutique firm that helps investors diversify their portfolios with commercial real estate. He got into multifamily in December of 2020 and has amassed a portfolio of 724 units in just 18 months!

Prior to founding Gibby’s, Eric spent 12 years in the sales industry, and he leverages the skills he learned there to build relationships in the multifamily space.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Eric joins Garrett and me to explain why he quit his W-2 job after his first multifamily deal and explore how the skills he learned in sales translate to real estate.

Eric discusses what he did to build relational capital in the real estate space, challenging us to put ourselves in the right rooms and add value any way we can—without asking for compensation.

Listen in for Eric’s insight on underwriting in an uncertain market environment and learn how a sales mindset can help YOU scale a multifamily portfolio and quit your 9-to-5 with real estate!

For full episode show notes visit:

http://www.themichaelblank.com/session329/

MB328: Live from DML: The Multifamily Market Outlook – With Robert Helms

Mon, 25 Jul 2022 05:00:02 -0400

According to the mainstream media, the sky is falling in the real estate market.

But is that entirely true?

While no one can predict exactly what will happen in the global economy or how it might impact real estate, Robert Helms is a student of the markets. And he can tell us how to prepare for the change that’s coming our way.

Robert is Founder and Host of the top-rated Real Estate Guys Radio Show. He has 18 years of experience working in a real estate brokerage with his dad, Bob ‘the Godfather of Real Estate’ Helms, and has been involved in development projects worth more than $300M.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, we're sharing the replay of Robert’s talk at Deal Maker Live, where he explains why the mainstream media doesn’t get the real estate markets right and why investors like us need to pay attention anyway.

Robert walks us through a SWOT analysis of the real estate market, describing the current opportunities and threats to multifamily investors.

Listen in for Robert’s insight around the purchasing power of the US dollar and learn how apartment building investors like YOU can prepare for a fundamental change to the economy and thrive regardless of the circumstances!

For full episode show notes visit:

http://www.themichaelblank.com/session328/

MB327: Work-Life Balance for Women in Real Estate – With Liz Faircloth, Savannah Arroyo, Julie Holly & Veena Jetti

Mon, 18 Jul 2022 05:00:54 -0400

There aren't a lot of women in the real estate investing business, in part because there are so few female role models.

But if you can see it, you can be it.

So, we brought together a panel of powerhouse women entrepreneurs this past June at Deal Maker Live to share their experiences and encourage other aspiring investors, men and women alike.

Our panelists included Savannah Arroyo, Founder and CEO of Networth Nurse, Julie Holly, Founder of Three Keys Investments and Host of The Conscious Investor Podcast, Veena Jetti, Founding Partner at Vive Funds, and Liz Faircloth, Cofounder of the DeRosa Group and Cocreator of The Real Estate InvestHER Community.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, we're sharing the replay of the Women in Real Estate panel discussion from Deal Maker Live, exploring some of the biggest obstacles Savannah, Julie, Holly and Liz faced as entrepreneurs and what they did to overcome those challenges and become successful multifamily investors.

Our panelists discuss how to create work-life balance as a woman in real estate, offering advice around creating a support system and getting on the same page with your partner.

Listen in for insight into the surprising skills you need to be an effective entrepreneur and get Savannah, Julie, Holly and Liz’s advice on the mindset you need to build a thriving real estate investing business!

For full episode show notes visit:

http://www.themichaelblank.com/session327/

MB326: Democratizing Access to Quality Real Estate Deals – With Jilliene Helman

Mon, 11 Jul 2022 05:00:34 -0400

Real estate investing is a critical part of a diversified portfolio. And while most Americans have easy access to stocks and bonds, most don't know where to go to find private real estate deals.

That’s what inspired Founder and CEO Jilliene Helman to create Realty Mogul, a crowdfunding platform committed to democratizing real estate.

Jilliene’s background in banking exposed her to brokers, real estate lenders and trust officers, giving her a 360-degree view of wealth management—and a comprehensive understanding of the real estate market.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Jilliene joins Garrett and me to discuss the challenges she faced early on in building Realty Mogul and describe what inspired her to persevere through 103 coffee meetings before she found a backer!

Jilliene explains how the Realty Mogul marketplace differs from traditional syndication and explores the pros and cons of investing in individual deals versus real estate investment trusts (REITs) on the site.

Listen in for Jilliene’s thoughtful outlook on the current real estate market and get her advice for investing in the right opportunities during an economic downturn.

For full episode show notes visit:

http://www.themichaelblank.com/session326/

MB325: The Future of Real Estate Is Digital – With Ryan Pineda

Mon, 04 Jul 2022 05:00:17 -0400

What does the future of real estate look like?

If you ask Ryan Pineda, the future of real estate is digital. And he sees the potential to build multiple billion-dollar businesses that solve many of the problems we face—on the blockchain.

Ryan began his real estate career in 2010, and since then, he’s flipped hundreds of single-family homes, purchased hundreds of rentals and founded six multimillion-dollar businesses in the space.

In 2020, he went all-in on social media and amassed 1.5M followers teaching people how to build wealth and achieve financial freedom. Ryan is also working on a new NFT project called Tykes, a community for the pioneers of digital real estate.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Ryan joins Garrett Lynch to discuss his SOP for starting a new business and describe what makes his real estate companies so resilient.

Ryan shares the worst-case scenario thinking that helps him identify single points of failure and explains how removing yourself from day-to-day operations and cross-training your people mitigates risk.

Listen in for insight into the issues the blockchain can solve for real estate investors and learn how to be part of Ryan’s new NFT project and digital real estate mastermind!

For full episode show notes visit:

http://www.themichaelblank.com/session325/

MB324: How to Grow & Lead a Real Estate Investing Team – With Cameron Herold

Mon, 27 Jun 2022 05:00:56 -0400

Growing a successful real estate business means growing a solid team. But many entrepreneur-investors struggle with hiring and don’t spend enough time developing key leadership skills.

So, what makes for a successful leader in the multifamily business? How do you decide what to delegate, communicate the vision for your business and help the people on your team excel?

Known as the CEO Whisperer, Cameron Herold is Founder of the COO Alliance and Second in Command Podcast, a coaching practice and training platform that helps C-suite leaders double their revenue in three years or less.

Cameron is well-known for engineering 1-800-GOT-JUNK?’s growth from $2M to $106M in revenue in just six years as COO. He is also the bestselling author of Vivid Vision: A Remarkable Tool for Aligning Your Business Around a Shared Vision of the Future.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Cameron joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to explain what makes a successful leader, describing how a vivid vision helps leaders focus on the right opportunities and communicate with their team.

Cameron shares the activity inventory he uses to help leaders learn to delegate, challenging us to offload anything that’s outside our genius and free up our time for revenue-generating activities.

Listen in for Cameron’s insight on creating personal development plans for the individuals on your investing team and learn his FOCUS x FAITH x EFFORT formula for success!

For full episode show notes visit: http://www.themichaelblank.com/session324/

MB323: The Shortcut to Success in Real Estate – With Sam Kwak

Mon, 20 Jun 2022 05:00:40 -0400

Are you struggling to do your first real estate deal? Is there an aspect of the multifamily business that’s taking a long time to master on your own?

What if you stopped asking HOW and started asking WHO? Who is already good at this? And can they teach me?

Sam Kwak is one half of the real estate duo and YouTube sensation known as The Kwak Brothers. Based in Chicago, Sam and his brother Daniel hold a portfolio worth just over $4.5M.

Beyond investing in multifamily, Sam leverages his background in marketing and technology to help property managers automate their business.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Sam joins host Garrett Lynch to explain how volunteering to work for free with a local investor served as a shortcut to his success.

Sam describes how he leverages an online platform to raise money for real estate deals, discussing why the focus of his content has changed and how hiring a high-level consultant grew his YouTube channel from 108K to 260K subscribers in just four months.

Listen in for Sam’s insight on navigating challenges in a business partnership and learn how to accelerate your real estate career by investing in a mentor or coach—and then applying that knowledge to get further, faster!

For full episode show notes visit: http://www.themichaelblank.com/session323/

MB322: Developing a Next-Level Due Diligence Checklist – With Jake Harris

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 05:00:13 -0400

When was the last time you reviewed your due diligence process?

Too many real estate investors are so eager to do a deal that they cut corners on due diligence and hope for the best. But a robust due diligence checklist is essential to your success.

Jake Harris uses his superpower of methodically sorting through data to make real-world decisions on real estate, and his private equity firm has acquired more than $200M in assets in the last five years alone.

Jake is extremely detail-oriented in conducting due diligence, and he shares that expertise in his new book, Catching Knives: A Guide to Investing in Distressed Commercial Real Estate.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Jake joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to discuss how he hit rock bottom during the recession and describe his transition from single family flips to commercial real estate.

Jake explores how to use deep knowledge of a given real estate market to your advantage and explains how due diligence can uncover significant downside risk in a commercial deal.

Listen in for Jake’s no-stone-unturned approach to due diligence and learn how to decide when a deal is worth the risk—and when to walk away.

For full episode show notes visit: http://www.themichaelblank.com/session322/

MB321: Marketing to Scale Your Syndication Business – With Brian Wagers

Mon, 06 Jun 2022 05:00:02 -0400

Most new multifamily investors focus on deal flow. We know that capital flow is important, but we figure we can rely on friends and family to fund our first few deals.

But eventually, the money runs out. So, if you want to scale a real estate business, you’ve got to grow your sphere of potential investors. And the easiest way to do that is through an online thought leadership platform.

Brian Wagers raised capital for his first 361 units simply by talking to people one-on-one. And then he realized that to achieve scale, he needed to pay more attention to marketing.

Brian is Founder of Wagers Capital, a real estate investing firm with $4.1M in multifamily assets. To date, Brian has built a portfolio of 447 units in his home state of Arkansas and another 125 in Texas.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Brian joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to share the steps he took to get into multifamily and explain how live events helped him see the possibilities of growing a multimillion-dollar portfolio.

Brian walks us through the steps he took to build an online thought leadership platform, describing how his social media presence and podcast appearances attract new investors to Wagers Capital.

Listen in to understand how Brian leveraged my Platform Builders Workshop to build out his marketing systems and learn how to scale YOUR syndication business by focusing on deal flow and capital flow at the same time!

For full episode show notes visit: http://www.themichaelblank.com/session321/

MB320: How to Use Social Media to Crush It in Real Estate – With Lili Thompson

Mon, 30 May 2022 05:00:08 -0400

Why would a real estate investor want to share content on social media?

Yes, we can build relationships with other investors and raise capital without Instagram or YouTube. But social platforms help us maintain those real-life connections and make tens of thousands of others!

So, how can we use social media to crush it in real estate?

Lili Thompson was playing with the Harlem Globetrotters when COVID hit. Stuck at home with nothing to do, Lili learned about wholesaling and decided to try it—and document the process on social media.

Today, Lili is one of the rising stars in the real estate space, and she has 148K subscribers on YouTube.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Lili joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to discuss how she benefits from sharing her real estate journey on YouTube, describing the connections she’s made with other beginners and experienced investors alike.

Lili offers insight into how she built an audience on social media and explains why it’s important to produce content consistently.

Listen in to understand why Lili is shifting into the multifamily space (using my Syndicated Deal Analyzer) and take the first steps to creating a thought leadership platform of your own, no matter where you are in your real estate journey!

For full episode show notes visit: http://www.themichaelblank.com/session320/

MB319: An Introvert’s Guide to Raising Capital – With Jonathan Wei

Mon, 23 May 2022 05:00:17 -0400

What’s stopping you from doing your first multifamily deal? Whatever your perceived weakness may be, you can overcome it and achieve the same kind of success in commercial real estate that you’ve had in other areas of your life.

English is Jonathan Wei’s second language and he’s a quiet, introverted guy. And yet, he’s raised millions of dollars for real estate syndication deals. What’s his secret?

Jonathan serves as Cofounder and CEO of Greystone Capital Group, a commercial real estate firm that focuses on multifamily and self-storage assets. He left a successful career as a CPA to become a full-time investor, quitting his job in February 2022.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Jonathan joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to share his fears around raising capital, explaining how he got comfortable talking to brokers and investors with the help of a mentor.

Jonathan discusses how the connections he made at Deal Maker Live led to JV partnerships that helped him build a portfolio of 500 multifamily units and another 500 in self-storage.

Listen in for Jonathan’s insight on overcoming limiting beliefs by leveraging prior personal and professional successes—and applying the same work ethic to real estate!

For full episode show notes visit: http://www.themichaelblank.com/session319/

MB318: High-Stakes Problem-Solving as a Class D Multifamily Operator

Mon, 16 May 2022 05:00:22 -0400

Before you invest with a multifamily operator, it’s important to understand their track record. To know that they’ve got experience overcoming obstacles and making a deal work.

Prior to joining our team at Nighthawk Equity, podcast cohost Garrett Lynch owned and operated a class D real estate portfolio on the south side of Chicago. And learned how to solve problems on a life-or-death level in the process.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Garrett is flying solo, discussing how he acquired 300 properties in six months and describing some of the challenges he faced managing assets in crime-ridden neighborhoods.

Garrett shares his experience owning and operating a 381-unit, class D apartment building in Memphis, walking us through the steps he took to end gang violence onsite and increase occupancy to 90%.

Listen in for Garrett’s insight around the pros and cons of investing in class D properties and find out what he learned about problem-solving in a high-stakes situation that he brings to the team at Nighthawk!

For full episode show notes visit: http://www.themichaelblank.com/session318/

MB317: Building Wealth in Minority Communities – With Duamel Vellon

Mon, 09 May 2022 05:00:51 -0400

A 2017 Forbes headline reads, ‘Median Wealth of Black and Latino Families Could Hit Zero by the Middle of the Century.’

That hit home for Puerto Rican-born Duamel Vellon. And he’s made it his mission to raise awareness in his community, making multifamily investors out of his friends and peers.

Duamel Vellon is Cofounder of Ten15 Capital, a multifamily investment firm with assets in Florida, Georgia and the Carolinas. A former engineer in the theme park industry, Duamel quit his job in December of 2021 to be a full-time investor, and he currently manages a 203-unit portfolio.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Duamel joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to share the ‘chess versus checkers’ mindset that helped him transition from flipping to multifamily.

Duamel describes his grassroots approach to raising capital, discussing how he grows his network and educates potential investors before he has a live deal.

Listen in for insight on Duamel’s mission to serve the Black and Latino communities and learn his uncommon strategy for ensuring regular deal flow.

For full episode show notes visit: http://www.themichaelblank.com/session317/

MB316: Financing Multifamily Through a Credit Union – With Mark Ritter

Mon, 02 May 2022 05:00:03 -0400

If you finance a multifamily syndication through Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac, you’re securing non-recourse debt with a fixed interest rate. But if you want to exit anytime sooner than the loan expiration date, you're going to pay a BIG penalty on the back end.

So, how might we leverage credit unions to avoid these big-ticket prepayment penalties? Are there other benefits to financing real estate deals through a credit union? What’s the downside?

Mark Ritter is CEO of Member Business Financial Services or MBFS, a business lending credit service organization owned by credit unions for credit unions and their members. An expert in credit unions and business lending, Mark is dedicated to helping commercial real estate investors secure the financing they need.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Mark joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to explore the pros and cons of financing multifamily through a credit union versus traditional loans.

Mark describes the credit union philosophy of people helping people, discussing how real estate investors benefit from having a personal relationship with our lender.

Listen in for Mark’s advice on how to approach a credit union for a loan and learn about the flexible terms and low cost of capital available if you finance your next deal through an organization like MBFS!

For full episode show notes visit: http://www.themichaelblank.com/session316/

MB315: The Transition from Pro Athlete to Multifamily Investor – With Dan Brisse

Mon, 25 Apr 2022 05:00:46 -0400

A career as a professional athlete is exciting, and if you’re among the best, you can make a lot of money in a short amount of time. But what do you do when your career is over?

Dan Brisse was a professional snowboarder for over a decade, participating in the X Games four times and winning gold twice. But he noticed that older pros were suffering as their careers wound down, struggling financially and in their personal lives.

And that inspired Dan to make his money work for him with multifamily real estate.

Today, Dan is the cofounder of Granite Towers Equity Group, cohost of the Keeping It Real Estate Podcast and coauthor of 4 Steps to Successful Passive Investing. He and his partner, Mike, are GPs in 1,414 units worth $74M across five states, and he owns another 589 units as a passive investor.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Dan joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to discuss his transition from snowboarding to real estate and describe the steps he took to become a multifamily investor.

Dan explains how his investing strategy has evolved over time, encouraging us to seek out a high-level mentor early on and avoid shiny object syndrome.

Listen in for insight around the values alignment that makes Dan and Mike’s partnership work and learn how to make the leap from YOUR current career to full-time real estate investing.

For full episode show notes visit: http://www.themichaelblank.com/session315/

MB314: Live Your Purpose Through Real Estate Investing – With Lee Prosenjak

Mon, 18 Apr 2022 05:00:31 -0400

Why do you do what you do? Articulating the WHY behind your work gives it meaning. And makes for a richer, more fulfilling life.

But how do you uncover your purpose and then apply it each day?

Lee Prosenjak is a serial entrepreneur and executive coach at LynchPyn. He's worked with thousands of entrepreneurs in 30-plus countries, cultivating cohesive work groups and facilitating conversations that truly matter.

An artist at heart, Lee is also the Cofounder of Cherry Creek Dance, former Igniter at Simon Sinek Consulting and current real estate investor on a mission to help others discover their own inspiration, love and greatness.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Lee joins host Garrett Lynch to discuss his WHY and describe how clarity of purpose leads to better decision-making.

Lee explores the relationship between purpose and identity, sharing the experience that inspired him to play BIGGER and expand his influence beyond Cherry Creek Dance.

Listen in for Lee’s insight around being open to new opportunities and find out how he is living his purpose as the owner of a boutique hotel in the Bahamas!

For full episode show notes visit: http://www.themichaelblank.com/session314/

MB313: Earn BIG Returns with a Portfolio of Commercial Assets – With Steffany Boldrini

Mon, 11 Apr 2022 05:00:17 -0400

Imagine earning cash-on-cash returns as high as 50%!

Inspired by sophisticated real estate investors in her network, Steffany Boldrini moved her money out of tech startups and into commercial properties three years ago.

And while she’s faced a lot of challenges along the way, Steffany reached financial freedom in less than two years.

So, what is Steffany’s approach to investing in real estate? And what does she do to earn such big-time returns?

Steffany moved from Brazil to Silicon Valley 20 years ago and enjoyed a successful career in tech sales before shifting her focus to commercial real estate. As Principal at Monte Carlo Real Estate Investments, she has built a portfolio across three asset classes, achieving 36% cash-on-cash returns.

Steffany is also the host of Commercial Real Estate Investing from A-Z, a podcast about investing in retail, office, industrial and self-storage properties.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Steffany joins host Garrett Lynch to discuss her transition from angel investing to real estate, describing why she likes the risk profile of commercial properties over tech startups.

Steffany shares her approach to building a commercial real estate portfolio, explaining the pros and cons of investing in car washes, self-storage and short-term rentals.

Listen in to understand how Steffany leverages technology in her real estate business and get ideas for adding value to force appreciation—in any commercial asset class.

For full episode show notes visit: http://www.themichaelblank.com/session313/

MB312: Become ‘Successfully Unemployed’ with Real Estate – With Dustin Heiner

Mon, 04 Apr 2022 05:00:43 -0400

When you work a traditional job, your ability to feed your family can be taken away from you at any moment. And your worth is determined by your employer.

But what if YOU can determine your own worth? What if you can earn enough passive income from real estate to walk away from your J-O-B and be your own boss?

Dustin Heiner is the creator of Master Passive Income, a platform and podcast where he shares insights on investing in real estate rental properties.

Getting laid off from his 9-to-5 inspired Dustin to pursue investing, and by 2016, Dustin had built a portfolio of 30 properties and quit his job in IT, becoming what he calls 'successfully unemployed.'

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Dustin joins Garrett Lynch and me to discuss what he loves about passive income and share some of the mistakes he made with his first few investments.

Dustin explains why it's important to build your business first, challenging you to look for markets with good inventory and put a team in place BEFORE you buy properties.

Listen in for Dustin's insight on leveraging real estate to leave a legacy and find out how a mentor can support YOU in becoming successfully unemployed—like Dustin!

For full episode show notes visit: http://www.themichaelblank.com/session312/

MB311: Wealth Creation with Crypto & Real Estate – With Matthew Diemer

Mon, 28 Mar 2022 05:00:48 -0400

Are you confused by cryptocurrency, the blockchain or NFTs?

As real estate investors, we’re all about wealth creation and owning physical assets as a hedge against inflation. But what about digital assets?

Is it worth investing in cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin? What is blockchain technology all about? And how can it change the world for the better?

Matthew Diemer is a small business entrepreneur and host of the Decrypt Daily Podcast. Prior to Decrypt Daily, he founded Crypto 101 and held the titles of COO and GM in the global hospitality industry. Matthew is also a Democrat running for Congress in Northeast Ohio dedicated to supporting entrepreneurship, promoting tech innovation and reviving manufacturing in the US.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Matthew joins host Garrett Lynch and me to discuss the benefits of blockchain technology, describing what makes crypto a good investment vehicle and why Bitcoin is a strong hedge against inflation.

Matthew explains how crypto allows us to control our own wealth and what we can do to keep our digital currency outside government control.

Listen in for Matthew’s insight into buying digital real estate and learn how the blockchain can be used to create wealth by tokenizing properties.

For full episode show notes visit: http://www.themichaelblank.com/session311/

MB310: Understanding the Entrepreneur’s Paradox — With Curtis Morley

Mon, 21 Mar 2022 05:00:53 -0400

Most entrepreneurs believe that we are the secret sauce in our business. We think that no one else can bake the cupcakes or design the websites or analyze the real estate deals quite the way we do. But if you’re busy building the product, who’s building the business? This is what Curtis Morley calls the entrepreneur’s paradox: In order to scale, you've got to shift your passion from working IN the business to working ON the business.

Curtis is the five-time entrepreneur, mentor and thought leader behind The Entrepreneur’s Paradox, a platform dedicated to helping startup companies achieve next-level growth. Curtis has been named Entrepreneur of the Year and made the Inc. 5000 list six times. He is also the bestselling author of The Entrepreneur’s Paradox: How to Overcome the 16 Pitfalls Along the Startup Journey.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Curtis joins host Garrett Lynch to explain the entrepreneur’s paradox, challenging us to shift from the role of product manager to business leader and achieve the next level of growth.

Curtis shares his concept of counterfeit emotions, describing how to turn fear into power with a simple shift from WHAT IF to WHAT IS thinking.

Listen in for Curtis’ four-step success formula for entrepreneurs and learn how to make the mindset shift you need to scale YOUR real estate syndication business.

Key Takeaways

How Curtis defines the entrepreneur’s paradox

What got you into business prevents you from succeeding
‘If you’re building the product, who’s building the business?’

The first steps to becoming a business leader

Make decision to replace yourself as product manager
Identify and document your processes, teach to others

Curtis’ 3 summits you can climb as an entrepreneur

Lifestyle business
Buy or be bought
IPO

Curtis’ 4-step success formula for entrepreneurs

How much
By when
For what
And why

Curtis’ advice for deciding what’s next after an exit

Stay committed to your WHY
Must have purpose, make contribution

Curtis’ concept of counterfeit emotions

Every authentic emotion has counterfeit (e.g.: faith vs. fear)
Authentic emotions connect, while counterfeit disconnect

How to transform your FEAR into POWER

Change WHAT IF into WHAT IS
Brings you back to present and creates energy

How Curtis uncovered the idea of counterfeit emotions

Pain = gift to help us grow, suffering steeped in blame/shame
Surrender to pain and turn it into something positive

Connect with Curtis Morley

The Entrepreneur’s Paradox

Resources

Access Michael’s Free Resources in the Freedom Vault

Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

The Entrepreneur’s Paradox: How to Overcome the 16 Pitfalls Along the Startup Journey (Keys to Success for a Startup Company) by Curtis Morley

MB309: How to LAUNCH a Syndication Business – With Jonathan & Paula Nichols

Mon, 14 Mar 2022 06:00:15 -0400

In aerospace engineering, ‘escape velocity’ is the amount of power a rocket needs to break free of the Earth’s gravitational field. And if you ask Jonathan and Paula Nichols, launching a real estate syndication business is no different.

It takes a tremendous amount of effort up front to do your first deal. You have to commit to the outcome and do whatever it takes to persevere through setbacks and disappointment. But once you’ve picked up momentum and closed on your first apartment building, the next deals follow in quick, almost automatic succession.

Jonathan and Paula are the cofounders of Apogee Capital, a multifamily firm dedicated to helping investors reach their financial potential. The Nichols closed on three deals in the last year, raising $2.7M as they built a portfolio of 200 units, and Jonathan quit his job as an aerospace engineer six weeks ago to pursue real estate full time.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Jonathan and Paula join cohost Garrett Lynch and me to discuss the sacrifices they made to make time for real estate while they both worked full-time corporate jobs.

Jonathan and Paula walk us through the steps they took to get started in multifamily syndication, describing how they got on the same page as a couple and started networking with potential partners.

Listen in for insight on reframing a lost deal as a learning opportunity and learn how to stay the course in tough times and keep taking action—until YOUR investing business takes off!

Key Takeaways

How Jonathan and Paula got into real estate

Rich Dad... inspired to lease first home, buy fourplex
Realized multifamily was only way to scale

How real estate evolved into a business for the Nichols

Started as way to diversify investments
Saw unlimited possibilities once they gained traction

How Jonathan and Paula got on the same page

Both wanted to build legacy
Saw real estate as potential family business

The steps Jonathan and Paula took to get started investing

Dreaming about financial freedom
Getting educated (mentorship program)
Networking to shift mindset
Taking consistent action to build confidence

How Jonathan and Paula made time for real estate

Say no to fun activities on nights and weekends
Make sacrifices to reach ‘escape velocity’

Jonathan and Paula’s first multifamily deal

Co-GPs on 100-unit deal in Tulsa, Oklahoma
Brought in as boots on ground in market

How Jonathan and Paula met their partners

Develop relationship through networking events
Brought them deal that didn’t work out

Jonathan and Paula’s big setback 5 months ago

Actual financial records didn’t match originals
Discouraging but consider it learning opportunity

How Jonathan and Paula raised $700K for their first deal

Saw value in being flexible enough to learn new skills
Leveraged relationships from W-2 jobs, real estate

What’s ahead for Jonathan and Paula in the next 2 years

Actively looking for new deals, talking to investors
Executing on business plan of existing deals

Jonathan and Paula’s plan to scale

Network with potential partners
Outsource and automate parts of business
Increase capacity to do larger deals

Jonathan and Paula’s advice for aspiring investors

Take consistent action on daily basis
Don’t get discouraged in tough times
Dream BIG and don’t limit yourself

Connect with Jonathan & Paula Nichols

Apogee Capital

Jonathan on LinkedIn

Resources

Buy Michael’s Syndicated Deal Analyzer

Access Michael’s Free Resources in the Freedom Vault

Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

National Real Estate Investors Association

Rich Dad Poor Dad: What the Rich Teach Their Kids About Money That the Poor and Middle Class Do Not! by Robert T. Kiyosaki

Suzy Sevier & Michael Barnhart on Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing EP260

Dream Big: Know What You Want, Why You Want It, and What You’re Going to Do About It by Bob Goff

Schedule a Call with Patrick

MB308: To Scale Fast in Multifamily, Partner Up – With Patrick Grimes

Mon, 07 Mar 2022 06:00:59 -0400

Multifamily real estate is a big game. And if you want to scale quickly, you can’t do it alone.

That’s how Patrick Grimes went from 0 to 1,200-plus units in under two years.

He partnered with a senior operator to go further faster, leveraging his partner’s expertise to build a $250M portfolio in a very short time.

But how did he get an experienced investor to invite him into a deal?

Patrick is the Founder and CEO of Invest on Main Street and contributor to the #1 Amazon bestseller Persistence, Pivots and Game Changers: Turning Challenges Into Opportunities. Patrick also runs Protomation Systems, a consulting business that contracts with machine design firms to conceptualize, design and build custom manufacturing automation and robotic systems.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Patrick joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to explain how he brought value to an experienced operator to get into his first multifamily deal.

Patrick shares his experience with the Law of the First Deal, describing how his role on the team shifted as his portfolio grew.

Listen in for Patrick’s insight on mitigating the risks of multifamily investing and find out why partnering up is the best way to scale your business and get on the fast track to financial freedom!

Key Takeaways

How Patrick got into real estate investing

First employer suggested keeping money in real estate
Looking for investment vehicle other than stock market

How Patrick’s investing strategy changed after 2008

Focus shifted to legacy and improving quality of life
Scale with multifamily, partner to accelerate growth

How Patrick got his wife involved in real estate investing

Invited to do Michael’s Ultimate Guide... course
Now she creates passive investor educational content

The steps Patrick took to get his first multifamily deal

Underwrite and bring live deals to senior operator
Network and build relationships with brokers

How Patrick justifies the risk associated with multifamily

Right team in place and experienced partners
Low-leveraged debt in less volatile markets

Patrick’s pivot away from deal finder into other roles

Drawn into existing deal by senior operator
Add value through due diligence, operations, etc.

Patrick’s experience with the Law of the First Deal

Started raising capital through engineering network
2nd and 3rd deals in quick succession (KP on $200M)

Why Patrick chose the 506(c) option

Used to accredited investors, $100K minimums
Allows him to market deals online

The biggest challenge Patrick is facing as he scales

Get name out there as real estate investor
Demo thought leadership on podcasts and in writing

Patrick’s advice for aspiring multifamily investors

Partner up to accelerate your growth
Find where your skills fit and bring value

Connect with Patrick Grimes

Invest on Main Street

Patrick on Forbes

Resources

Buy Michael’s Ultimate Guide to Apartment Building Investing

Access Michael’s Free Resources in the Freedom Vault

Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

Persistence, Pivots and Game Changers: Turning Challenges into Opportunities by Patrick Grimes et al.

MB307: Save Tens of Thousands on Your Taxes – With Heidi Henderson

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 06:00:23 -0400

Real estate has always had tax advantages, but in recent years, the deal got even sweeter for multifamily investors.

So, how do we write off depreciation? What is a cost segregation study and how can it save us even more?

Heidi Henderson serves as Executive Vice President at Engineered Tax Services, the nation’s leading tax credit and incentives firm. As an experienced tax consultant and real estate investor herself, Heidi specializes in the application of tax efficiencies to multifamily investments.

On this episode of the podcast, Heidi joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to share the unique tax advantages of real estate and explain why the US government incentivizes multifamily investors.

Heidi describes how to take advantage of BONUS depreciation (provided for by the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act) by conducting a detailed cost segregation analysis.

Listen in for Heidi’s insight on determining the ROI of a cost seg study and find out how YOU can save tens of thousands of dollars with the magic of accelerated depreciation!

Key Takeaways

The unique tax advantages of real estate

Depreciate value of real estate over 27½ years
Bonus depreciation through ‘cost seg’ analysis

Why the government incentivizes real estate investors

Consumerism drives economy
Encourages improvements to infrastructure

What depreciation is and how it works

Deducting cost of asset over its ‘useful life’
Reduces taxable income for investor

Why you should claim bonus depreciation right away

Must be done year property is purchased
Inventory breakdown helps plan renovations

How to take advantage of accelerated depreciation

Conduct cost segregation study
Itemize deductions (e.g.: carpet, windows, etc.)

What to look for in a company that does cost seg

Can vary from 2 to 150 pages
Ask for copy of redacted study to compare

How to determine your ROI on a cost seg analysis

Based on taxable income, percentage of tax paid
Subtract cost of analysis

The limitations on taxable income for passive investors

Depreciation offsets real estate income only
Does not offset income from W-2 job

Why we should cash in on bonus depreciation now

TCJA passed 100% bonus depreciation
Drops to 80% in 2023, 60% in 2024

Connect with Heidi Henderson

Engineered Tax Services

Heidi on LinkedIn

Email hhenderson@engineeredtaxservices.com

Call (801) 564-4464

Resources

Download Michael’s Free Report—What's the Best Investment: The Stock Market or Real Estate?

Access Michael’s Free Resources in the Freedom Vault

Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act

Heidi Henderson on Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing EP022

MB306: To Scale Your Business, Put Investors First – With Veena Jetti

Mon, 21 Feb 2022 06:00:40 -0400

When you’re doing your first multifamily deal, scaling the business is the last thing on your mind. But if you don’t think about scale early on and come up with a plan, you’ll be fighting fires as you grow.

So, how do you create a vision for what your syndication business will look like in the future and then proactively put systems in place that allow you to scale up with ease?

Veena Jetti is the Founding Partner of Vive Funds, a unique multifamily firm that specializes in curating conservative opportunities for real estate investors. Veena has built a portfolio of 3,000-plus units worth $600M, and she shares her expertise as a frequent speaker, panelist and guest on various media outlets.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Veena joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to explain how raising capital at a high level allows her to scale and describe how every decision is made with the investor in mind.

Veena shares her success with investor retention and referrals, discussing why she offers investors the option to put their money in a fund or invest in direct offerings.

Listen in for insight on how Veena uses her time as partner at a big-time investment firm and get her advice on creating workflows that make it easy to scale your multifamily syndication business!

Key Takeaways

What inspired Veena’s interest in scaling a real estate business

Mom was successful investor, taught solid work ethic
Enjoys bigger safety net than immigrant parents

How Veena and her sister/business partner use their time

Strategy re: acquisitions, capital and legal structure
Continue to take investor-facing calls

Why Veena’s had success raising capital at a high level

All decisions made with investor in mind
High investor retention rate and referrals

Why Veena offers investors a fund OR direct offering option

Fund satisfies demand for diversification, set + forget
Surprised to find that some investors want to do both

How Veena raises $30M in 42 days

Raise money when don’t have deal on table
$100K minimum for individual deals

Veena’s experience with institutional investors

Build relationships with family funds
Have Plan B in case drop out last minute

What Veena is doing to enhance the way she raises capital

Rebrand with investor in mind
Add technology to make process smoother

Veena’s biggest challenges right now

Letting go of taking investor calls
Implementing new tech at pace she wants

Veena’s advice to her younger self

Invest in systems and processes out of gate
Consider scale from first deal

How Veena thinks about deal flow

Wants to do more but very competitive right now
Prefers 1 or 2 great deals over 6 okay deals

How Veena’s definition of success has changed over time

Used to be based on net worth and income
Now focused on setting example for kids

Connect with Veena Jetti

Vive Funds

Vive Funds on Facebook

Vive Funds on Instagram

Veena on Twitter

Veena on TikTok

Resources

Access Michael’s Free Resources in the Freedom Vault

Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

The Art of the Deal by Donald J. Trump

Follow Alex’s Journey on Instagram

MB305: The Life and Times of an 18-Year-Old Syndicator – With Alex Mandaro

Mon, 14 Feb 2022 06:00:00 -0400

At the age of 18, Alex Mandaro is the youngest mentoring student we’ve ever had at the Michael Blank organization. So, we’re doing a grand experiment and asking Alex to document his journey!

In a reality-style series broadcast through our social media channels, Alex will share a behind-the-scenes look at the life and times of a new syndicator.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Alex joins me to explain what inspired his interest in multifamily and why he believes he’ll be successful.

He discusses why he used his college money to invest in mentoring, describing how he is getting the most out of our program and learning from the mistakes of others.

Listen in for insight on following Alex’s journey with us to find out if you really can be a successful syndicator without experience or cash of your own!

Key Takeaways

What inspired Alex’s interest in real estate

Always wanted to have business, likes people
Read Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing

What makes Alex believe he can be successful

Less baggage at age 18
Raised to believe he can do anything he wants

Why Alex chose real estate over college

Not sure what major he wanted to pursue
Can still meet new people and live on his own

How Alex’s friends and family reacted to his decision

Other friends not going to college
Parents very supportive

The first steps Alex is taking to pursue multifamily

Devote time to learning and networking
Look for partner to ‘get bigger deal done faster’

Why Alex invested in our mentoring program

Wants someone to push him
Make fewer mistakes

Alex’s personal WHY statement

Lead others to freedom
Positively impact others

How Alex is getting the most out of mentorship

Plan next steps each week
Go into conversations with investors prepared

How Alex thinks about getting through bad days

Purpose keeps pushing forward
Consistency is what matters

Why Alex agreed to document his journey with us

Help teach and inspire others
Holds him accountable

Alex’s concerns with sharing his journey on social

Pressure to do deal in certain time frame
Doesn’t want to let people down

Connect with Alex Mandaro

Follow Alex’s Journey on TikTok

Follow Alex’s Journey on YouTube

Resources

Access Michael’s Free Resources in the Freedom Vault

Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

Grant Cardone on Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing EP188

The Miracle Equation by Hal Elrod

Leverage Finance Software

MB304: Install Renewable Energy, Increase Your Profits – With John Matheson

Mon, 07 Feb 2022 06:00:59 -0400

Using renewable energy to power a multifamily property is not just for environmentalists anymore.

As the political environment shifts, going green doesn’t just make the world a better place. It’s also highly profitable.

John Matheson is Managing Member and Sustainable Building Consultant at J. Healy Development, where he has developed an expertise in helping multifamily operators increase profits through renewable energy and ecofriendly building methods.

He also serves as Cofounder and CEO of Leverage Finance Software, a platform that supports property investors in making smarter and more informed lender financing decisions.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, John joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to explain how he adds value to a property with rooftop or on-the-ground solar power.

He describes the benefits of partnering with a solar developer and discusses the financial incentives associated with installing renewable energy across a multifamily portfolio.

Listen in for insight on planning for panel maintenance and learn how to add a revenue stream to your multifamily business in 6 to 18 months with solar energy!

Key Takeaways

How John creates inventory as a permitting specialist

Build relationships in individual municipalities
Build to rent or flip permits to big developers

How John adds value to a property with solar power

Lease rooftop or land to solar developer
Supply power to building, sell residual to grid

How renewable energy credits or RECs work

Tenants pay less per kilowatt hour for energy
State pays multifamily operator as incentive

The benefits of partnering with a solar developer

Federal tax credit of 26% to 30% for installation
Take advantage of renewable energy lenders

What factors to consider as you plan to install solar

Build in cost of panel maintenance
Must remove panels to renovate roof

The timeline for installing rooftop or ground solar

Smaller system, faster it goes
6 to 18 months to cashflow

How renewable energy attracts tenants

Mention sustainability in marketing
Certain kind of tenant will pay more

Connect with John Matheson

Healy Development

Resources

Access Michael’s Free Resources in the Freedom Vault

Be a Part of Michael’s Deal Maker’s Mastermind

Download Michael’s Free Report—What’s the Best Investment: The Stock Market or Real Estate?

Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

Federal Solar Tax Credit

Build Back Better

eConserve Multifamily Water Conservation Solutions

Redline Equity on LinkedIn

MB303: How to Balance Multifamily with a Demanding W-2 – With Andrew Schutsky

Mon, 31 Jan 2022 06:00:18 -0400

Can you be successful in real estate investing and successful at a demanding job at the same time?

Andrew Schutsky serves as the CIO of a $700M medical technology company. He also happens to be the founder of multifamily syndication firm Redline Equity and host of The Crushing Cashflow Podcast.

Andrew has 14 years of real estate rental experience but didn’t enter the multifamily space until last year. Since then, he has built a portfolio of 1100 units!

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Andrew joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to explain how he built a real estate business while working an executive level W-2 job.

He describes how he networked into his first deal and offers advice on finding a partner who complements your strengths.

Listen in for insight on the strategy of time budgeting and find out how Andrew is making time for his family, his full-time job and financial freedom.

Key Takeaways

What inspired Andrew’s interest in real estate

Want to make best use of money
Realized could replace income later

Andrew’s shift to multifamily

Came across blog of local syndicator
Networked into first deal

Andrew’s advice on finding a partner

Share criteria, e.g.: 50- to 125-unit deals
Align objectives and values

How Andrew balances real estate with his W-2

Devote 15 to 20 hours/week
Work in 5 to 7AM window

Andrew’s strategy of time budgeting

Decide how to spend time, audit often
Break down to align with goals

How Andrew makes time for his family

Sacred window from 7 to 9PM
Wife holds accountable if off track

Andrew’s morning routine

Read 20 pages or listen to podcast
Meditation or 15-minute workout

How Andrew stays on track to reach his goals

Join/create accountability groups
Post goals and track progress

How Andrew thinks about his W-2 job

Can't control what will happen
Option to exit in 2 years

What financial freedom means to Andrew

Cover expenses with passive income
Spend 40 on family and passions

Andrew’s advice to aspiring investors

Find fun in chaos
Be ruthless in how invest time
Focus on your strengths

Connect with Andrew Schutsky

Redline Equity

Redline Equity on Facebook

The Crushing Cashflow Podcast

Crushing Cashflow on LinkedIn

Crushing Cashflow on Facebook

Andrew on LinkedIn

Email andrew@investwithredline.com

Resources

Access Michael’s Free Resources in the Freedom Vault

Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

Review the Podcast on iTunes [Text CONTEST to 66866]

The 80/20 Rule on Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing EP289

Sterling Rhino on YouTube

MB302: To Scale Fast, Think BIG from the Beginning – With Chris Roberts

Mon, 24 Jan 2022 06:00:38 -0400

It’s a common misconception in multifamily investing that you have to start small. But Chris Roberts looked beyond his first deal to envision a multimillion-dollar real estate business. He accelerated his success by thinking BIG from the beginning, acquiring nearly 1,000 units worth $69M in just three years. So, what’s the secret to scaling fast the way Chris did?

Chris is the Founder and CEO of Sterling Rhino Capital, where he specializes in commercial debt, managing financials and investor relations. A full-time entrepreneur and investor since 2007, Chris started his real estate career by renovating, flipping and renting dozens of single-family properties. But after attending one of our events, Chris shifted his focus to helping people create cashflow by investing in larger apartment buildings of 100 units or more.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Chris joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to share the process he used to scale quickly and achieve financial freedom. He explains why finding the right partner was key in growing Sterling Rhino and describes his team's make-it-personal approach to finding deals and raising money. Listen in for Chris’ insight on investing in mentorship and find out what it takes to build a BIG real estate investing business—in very little time.

Key Takeaways

What inspired Chris to invest in multifamily real estate

Motivated by money at first
Passive cashflow = freedom

The mindset shift that propelled Chris into action

Realized one person’s decision could change future
Would much rather control own destiny

The process Chris used to scale quickly

Take massive action
Invest in tools, mentors for support

Chris’ transition from sales and marketing to multifamily

Already people person, love business planning
Had to overcome fears and bring on team

How Chris and his business partner divide roles

Paul excels at numbers, analytics and systems
Chris focuses on investor relations

Chris’ approach to deal flow and raising money

Set yourself apart by ‘making it personal’
Create frictionless process of doing business

What Chris is doing to handle scaling quickly

Software to manage assets and team
Grow team

Chris’ advice on how to scale fast in multifamily

Don’t be afraid to partner
Join programs for tools, guidance and networking

Connect with Chris Roberts

Sterling Rhino Capital

Sterling Rhino on Facebook

Sterling Rhino on LinkedIn

Charging Forward Podcast

Resources

Join the Deal Maker’s Mastermind

Buy Michael’s Syndicated Deal Analyzer

Access Michael’s Free Resources in the Freedom Vault

Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

Review the Podcast on iTunes [Text CONTEST to 66866]

MB301: A Blueprint for Developing New Skills – With Jerome Maldonado

Mon, 17 Jan 2022 06:00:00 -0400

In a culture with an aversion to failure, learning something new is scary. So, what is the best way to build new skills? How much information do you need before you start doing? And how do you keep moving forward when it gets hard?

Real Estate Investor and Developer Jerome Maldonado got his start in direct sales and built a six-figure network marketing business in his mid-20’s. He leveraged those skills in team building and sales mastery to pivot into real estate and construction. Today, Jerome runs an eight-figure empire, and he is currently focused on land development and multifamily investing.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Jerome joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to share his blueprint for getting into a new business and offer advice on how to stick with something when it gets hard. He explains how he developed such a strong work ethic, describing how he built a successful construction business and what inspired his pivot to buying land. Listen in for insight on minimizing risk as a land developer and learn Jerome’s secret to developing new skills as an entrepreneur and real estate investor!

Key Takeaways

How Jerome developed a strong work ethic

Parents set example growing up
Learned from competitive sports

What skills most contribute to Jerome’s success

Consistency
Stay focused through difficult times

Jerome’s advice on sticking with something

Have faith in what you’re doing
Press yourself in multiple ways

How Jerome built a successful construction business

Helped brother-in-law take over crew
Leveraged sales experience to win big bids

What inspired Jerome’s pivot to buying land

Met developer at construction site
Not afraid to ask questions about business

Jerome’s blueprint for getting into a new business

Take time to get educate yourself
Be a DOER (but be methodical)

Jerome’s reduce-the-risk approach to land development

Work through entitlements during due diligence
Ready to start immediately once land acquired

How to learn more about land development

Surround yourself with right people
Inundate yourself with material
Give up equity to veteran partner on first deal

Connect with Jerome Maldonado

Resources

Download Michael’s Special Report—What's the Best Investment: The Stock Market or Real Estate?

Review the Podcast on iTunes [Text CONTEST to 66866]

Access Michael’s Free Resources at the Freedom Vault

Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

Tai Lopez

Grant Cardone on Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing EP188

Access Michael’s Deal Maker Certification

MB300: The Best of 2021 on Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing

Mon, 10 Jan 2022 17:00:00 -0400

We had some inspiring guests on the podcast in 2021, all with their own particular interest or expertise around achieving financial freedom. But the one thing they all have in common is the powerful combination of hard work and passion it takes to achieve next-level success.

So, what were some of the highlights from our interviews this past year? What are my top takeaways from the entrepreneurs and real estate investors who appeared on the show?

On this episode, I’m sharing the Best of 2021 on Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, beginning with Jordan Harbinger’s insight on building relationships BEFORE you need them and Brandon Turner’s simple approach to developing your personal brand.

We revisit John Lee Dumas’ dynamic formula for becoming a person of value, Joe Fairless’ perspective on raising capital through a fund and Chad Williams’ thoughts on applying Navy SEAL principles to your multifamily business.

Listen in as we look back at Liz Faircloth’s commitment to building the Real Estate InvestHER community, Jenny Gou’s experience of leaving her high-paying corporate job for real estate, and Ronan McMahon’s understanding of opportunities to invest internationally!

Key Takeaways

Jordan Harbinger’s proactive approach to networking

‘Dig the well before you’re thirsty’
Don’t wait until you need something to reach out

Brandon Turner’s insight on building a personal brand

Consider how people already think about you
Lean into what you’re good at (simplicity is key)

John Lee Dumas’ take on what it takes to be successful

Hard work + passion wins every time
We develop passion for things we’re good at

Liz Faircloth's passion for the Real Estate InvestHER community

Support women investors, provide role models
Thrive better in marriage to have own business

Joe Fairless’ insight on raising capital through a fund

Con = miss out on ‘lightning in a bottle’
Pro = spread out capital raise over time

Chad Williams’ take on applying SEAL principles to multifamily

Control emotions regardless of circumstances
Take on role of servant leader

Jenny Gou’s experience of quitting her job for real estate

Inspired by desire to prioritize time with family
Left corporate job, grew to 800 units in 10 months

Ronan McMahon’s insight on investing internationally

Big buying moment always happening somewhere
Identify places with significant upside potential

Resources

Join the Deal Maker Mastermind

Get Your Tickets for Deal Maker Live

Download Free Resources from The Freedom Vault

Review the Podcast on iTunes [Text ‘contest’ to 66866]

Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

Dig Your Well Before You’re Thirsty: The Only Networking Book You’ll Ever Need by Harvey Mackay

Dave Meyer’s Data Deli on Instagram

BiggerPockets

Get Your Tickets for Deal Maker Live

MB299: 2021 Year in Review & Market Outlook for 2022

Mon, 03 Jan 2022 06:00:00 -0400

One of the best things you can do for yourself at the end of each year is take time to reflect on what you’ve learned and achieved. Celebrate your wins and apply the lessons learned as you plan for the year to come.

On this solo episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, I reflect on 2021 through the lens of our core values here at the Michael Blank brands, sharing what I’ve learned about making intentional decisions based on what’s really important to you.

I discuss some of the milestones we’ve achieved in the last year, celebrating the launch of our Deal Maker Certification program and the three deals we closed through our investing arm, Nighthawk Equity.

Listen in for insight into the market outlook for multifamily in 2022 and find out what we’ve got planned for the new year—and how YOU can be part of our mission to help 1,000 families achieve financial freedom in the next five years!

Key Takeaways

The benefit of examining your core values

Focus on what’s important and make decisions accordingly
Align with right partners, team members and community

Our core values here at The Michael Blank brands

Do what you say
Do your best
Make a difference
Get stuff done

The Michael Blank brands milestones for 2021

Onboard several new team members
Host Deal Maker Live (first in-person event since COVID)
1,000 reviews of book on Amazon
Launch Deal Maker Certification
Mentoring students close 1 deal/ week
Consolidate free resources at The Freedom Vault

Our podcast milestones in 2021

Rebrand to better reflect mission
Surpassed 3M downloads
Notable guests (Jordan Harbinger, David Meltzer, etc.)

Nighthawk Equity milestones for 2021

Closed 3 deals totaling 491 units, $90M
Built social media presence on LinkedIn and Instagram
Completed value-add renovations at 3 properties

My top lessons learned in 2021

Know core values and be intentional
Surround self with quality partners

The Michael Blank brands plan for 2022

Help 1,000 families become financially free in next 5 years
Build out Deal Maker Journey programs
Expand team and introduce new faces/voices

Why we believe multifamily will continue to do well in 2022

Millennials prefer to rent rather than own
Opportunities to increase value of assets

Why multifamily prices are likely go up in 2022

Growing inflation and higher incomes
Ongoing low interest rates, demand for affordable housing

My advice on creating an intentional plan for 2022

Reflect on what worked and what didn’t in last year
Write vivid vision and plan goals accordingly
Get clear on what financial freedom means to you

Resources

Access Michael’s Deal Maker Certification

Download Free Resources from The Freedom Vault

Join the Deal Maker Mastermind

Uganda Counseling and Support Services

The Core Value Equation: A Framework to Drive Results, Create Limitless Scale and Win the War for Talent by Darius Mirshahzadeh

Core Values on Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing EP292

Navy SEAL Chad Williams

Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

Nighthawk Equity on LinkedIn

Nighthawk Equity on Instagram

RIch Dad Poor Dad: What the Rich Teach Their Kids About Money That the Poor and Middle Class Do Not by Robert T. Kiyosaki

The Miracle Morning: The Not-So-Obvious Secret Guaranteed to Transform Your Life (by 8AM) by Hal Elrod

Vivid Vision: A Remarkable Tool for Aligning Your Business Around a Shared Vision of the Future by Cameron Herold

Five Minute Journal App

The State of Multifamily on Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing EP283

Aspiring Women Achieving More

MB298: The 4 Levels of Financial Freedom – With Mandy McAllister

Mon, 27 Dec 2021 06:00:00 -0400

The more truth you put to any problem, the easier it is to solve. So, if you want to quit your W-2 job, start by doing the math. Because once you know how much you need to cover your living expenses, it’s just a matter of building your multifamily portfolio step by step until you achieve financial freedom.

Mandy McAllister is Managing Member of Good Fortune Capital and Cofounder of the Aspiring Women Achieving More community. After years of chasing a commission, Mandy retired from her 9-to-5 in medical device sales to pursue multifamily investing full time. Today, she’s on a mission to help others define their own path to financial freedom.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Mandy joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to share her take on the different levels of financial freedom, describing how she calculated her freedom number—and achieved it 12 months later. She explains why she started small, working her way up to large multifamily properties acquired in joint venture partnerships. Listen in for Mandy's insight on securing debt to match your business plan and learn how to leverage multifamily investing to break free of YOUR golden handcuffs and live a life by design!

Key Takeaways

When Mandy started thinking about quitting her job

Bought fourplex when son was born as college fund
Saw potential to retire on cashflow with more deals

Mandy’s take on the different levels of financial freedom

Cover minimum living expenses
Cover current living expenses
Replace income
Replace income plus buffer

How Mandy financed her multifamily deals

Use equity in other properties for deals < 20 units
Took on partners in JV structures for > 50 units

How to decide whether to start small or go big right away

Depends on individual goals
Advantages to going larger

What Mandy looks for in a multifamily deal

B class asset with quality long-term debt
Size agnostic (less competition for 50-unit deals)

What Mandy looks for in a joint venture partnership

Someone on same page who you can trust
Important to have different strengths

Why Mandy sees long-term debt as the ultimate flexibility

15-year loan on recent 53-unit acquisition
Terms allow for 3 potential exit strategies

What Mandy is doing to ensure consistent deal flow

Network with young, hungry investors at Meetup
Potential JVs look for deals that fit her criteria

Where Mandy is looking to invest right now

Strong growth markets in Midwest
Drive there and back before dinner

How COVID influenced Mandy’s decision to quit her job

Did 4 transaction in 3 months with extra time
Brought in double W-2 income

What Mandy is looking forward to moving forward

Impact as many lives as possible
Help others remove golden handcuffs

Connect with Mandy McAllister

Mandy’s Website

Good Fortune Capital

Resources

Rocket Fuel: The One Essential Combination That Will Get You More of What You Want from Your Business by Gino Wickman and Mark C. Winters

Review the Podcast on Apple [Text CONTEST to 66866]

MB297: What’s the Key to Happiness—Success or Significance? – With David Meltzer

Mon, 20 Dec 2021 06:00:00 -0400

What will make you happy? Yes, money gives us the freedom to retire early and spend our days on a beach somewhere. But it doesn't take long to realize that a fulfilling life requires purpose and meaning. That the end goal is not success but significance.

Bestselling author and Top 100 Business Coach David Meltzer is the cofounder of Sports 1 Marketing and former CEO of Leigh Steinberg Sports & Entertainment, the agency that inspired the film Jerry Maguire. David is also the executive producer of the television series 2 Minute Drill and Office Hours and host of The Playbook Podcast. His life’s mission is to empower one billion people to be happy.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, David joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to explain what he learned from his biggest failure, describing the abundance mindset he used to bounce back from losing $100M. He shares his daily habits for achieving success and fulfillment, challenging us to adopt an attitude of gratitude and prioritize what really matters. Listen in for David's insight on reframing failure and learn to engage in the consistent, persistent pursuit of YOUR greatest potential!

Key Takeaways

What David learned from losing $100M and going bankrupt

When you appreciate what you have, it grows
More than enough of everything for everyone

David’s quest to empower over 1B people with happiness

Teach gratitude, forgiveness and accountability
Help people prioritize and apply their WHY

David’s daily habits for achieving next-level success

Take daily inventory of what you want
Know your what, who and how
Know your now (priorities, non-negotiables)
Clear any interference between you & God

Why David builds his calendar around 5-minute coaching

Leads to productivity, accessibility and gratitude
Prioritize discussion around what really matters

How David’s definition of success has changed over time

Used to be defined by bank account
Now consistent, persistent pursuit of potential

Connect with David Meltzer

David’s Website

Email david@dmeltzer.com

The Playbook Podcast

Resources

Join Michael’s Deal Maker Certification Program

Uganda Counseling and Support Services

Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

2 Minute Drill

Office Hours with David Meltzer

Game-Time Decision Making: High-Scoring Business Strategies from the Biggest Name in Sports by David Meltzer

Connected to Goodness: Manifest Everything You Desire in Business and Life by David Meltzer with Harrison Lebowitz

Networth Nurse on YouTube

MB296: Getting Brokers to Take You Seriously – With Savannah Arroyo

Mon, 13 Dec 2021 06:00:00 -0400

How do you get brokers to take you seriously if you’re brand new to multifamily? Savannah Arroyo and her husband Lupe talked to 50 brokers before they found one who was willing to work with them. But that relationship led to three deals in nine months, allowing Savannah to quit her full-time job as an RN!

Savannah is the Founder of Networth Nurse, a platform designed to help healthcare professionals stop living paycheck to paycheck. Through the Networth Nurse blog and YouTube channel, she educates and empowers her colleagues around personal finance and multifamily investing. Savannah and her husband Lupe leveraged the Michael Blank Mentoring Program to accelerate their success, partnering with other students in our network to close three syndications and replace her income as a nurse in under a year.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Savannah joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to explain how she got that first broker to take her seriously. She describes how she and Lupe created a five-year game plan for their real estate business and then put in the reps, taking daily action to realize that vision. Listen in to understand the benefits of investing in your multifamily education and learn how Savannah is scaling her portfolio through partnerships and the Networth Nurse platform.

Key Takeaways

The freedom of choice real estate gives Savannah

Still works as RN when she wants
Very involved in children’s lives

What inspired Savannah and her husband to pursue real estate

Way to invest that puts money in pockets now
Strategy to grow wealth, earn passive income

How Savannah and Lupe came up with a real estate game plan

Set vision for 5 years out and worked backward
Got educated and invested in coaching

How Savannah got started with single family rentals

Lender told about $100K of equity in home
Used debt to buy income-producing assets

Why Savannah transitioned from SFH rentals to multifamily

Realized scale necessary to achieve vision
Healthcare operations skill set translates to apartments

How Savannah pursued real estate while working full time

Work on real estate from 8 to 12pm every day
Built-in accountability partner in husband

How Savannah overcame limiting beliefs around raising money

Trusted with leadership role at work
Mitigate risk with research and underwriting

How to get brokers to take you seriously as a new investor

Be specific about what you’re looking for
Provide feedback on deals within 48 hours

Savannah’s first multifamily deal

$1M 12-unit in Oregon financed through credit union
Struggled to raise $350K from friends and family

Why Savannah decided to invest in coaching

Leverage mentor’s experience to avoid mistakes
Momentum to get into first deal much quicker

What Savannah is doing to scale the business

Partner with other investors to raise capital
Build online platform with Networth Nurse

How Savannah and her husband share responsibilities

Husband does acquisitions and asset management
Savannah raises capital and does marketing

Savannah’s advice for aspiring multifamily investors

Reach out to someone doing what you want
Research and get educated with podcasts, networking

Connect with Savannah Arroyo

Networth Nurse

Networth Nurse on Instagram

Networth Nurse on LinkedIn

Networth Nurse on Facebook

Resources

Join Michael’s Deal Maker Certification Program

Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

The Miracle Equation: The Two Decisions That Move Your Biggest Goals from Possible to Probable to Inevitable by Hal Elrod

The Common Path to Uncommon Success: A Roadmap to Financial Freedom and Fulfillment by John Lee Dumas

MB295: Become a Person of Value, Achieve Success – With John Lee Dumas

Mon, 06 Dec 2021 06:00:00 -0400

John Lee Dumas spent the first 32 years of his life chasing the almighty dollar—with little success. But when he took Albert Einstein’s advice and decided to become a man of value, that’s when JLD got a taste of success.

JLD is the host of the award-winning podcast Entrepreneurs on Fire, which has racked up over 100M listens and 3K five-star reviews since its launch in 2012. Through EOF, he has interviewed more than 3K of the world’s most successful entrepreneurs, delivering the inspiration and strategies listeners need to FIRE UP their own entrepreneurial journey. JLD is also the author of The Common Path to Uncommon Success: A Roadmap to Financial Freedom and Fulfillment.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, JLD joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to discuss his early struggle to succeed and explain how he approaches the podcast as a way to provide value. He reflects on the powerful combination between hard work and passion, sharing the lessons he’s learned from elite entrepreneurs around productivity, discipline and focusing on one path to success. Listen in for JLD’s method of deciding which opportunities to pursue (investment and otherwise) and find out how achieving financial freedom can help YOU bring big-time value to the world.

Key Takeaways

Why JLD struggled to succeed prior to EOF

Dealt with PTSD after tour in Iraq
Chase success vs. provide value

JLD’s short career in commercial real estate

Commit to one year as junior broker
Felt no excitement for closing deals

JLD’s approach to starting the podcast

Think long-term and be patient
18-month window to earn revenue

Why hard work isn’t enough to succeed

Hard work + passion win every time
Grow to love things you’re good at

Why financial freedom is important to JLD

Utility of money brings joy
Lack causes anxiety and overwhelm

The key themes in The Common Path...

Steps to make more than you spend
Become #1 solution to real problem

What JLD is investing in right now

Cryptocurrency and NFTs
Angel invest in startups

JLD’s top takeaways from 3K interviews

Focus on producing right content
Discipline to execute on plan
Focus on one course to success

How JLD picks what opportunities to pursue

If it’s not a hell yes, it’s a no
Miss great opportunities if plate full

How JLD decides what to invest in

Research and find mentors in space
Believe in value company brings

Connect with John Lee Dumas

Entrepreneurs on Fire

Resources

Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

Hell Yeah or No: What’s Worth Doing by Derek Sivers

Michael Hyatt’s Desire Zone

MB294: Build Your Confidence at Deal Maker Bootcamp – With Drew Kniffin

Mon, 29 Nov 2021 06:00:00 -0400

Robert Kiyosaki’s Cone of Learning illustrates that while we only remember 10% of what we read after two weeks, we recall a full 90% of what we say and do. And that’s why aspiring investors who work through a simulation of their first deal are so much more confident than those who don’t practice the process beforehand.

But what does it look like to simulate your first multifamily deal? Where can you go to rehearse the steps in the Deal Maker Blueprint and gain the confidence to follow through?

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Nighthawk Equity President Drew Kniffin joins me to discuss our upcoming Deal Maker Bootcamp in Orlando this January and explain how the workshop simulates the process of finding and closing on your first multifamily deal.

We explore the benefits of simulating your first deal and following a proven process, challenging you to master the critical skill of analyzing deals quickly and accurately.

Listen in for insight on the three kinds of people you need in your real estate network (and where to find them) and learn our top strategies for simulating your first apartment deal and building confidence while you practice in a safe environment.

Key Takeaways

Robert Kiyosaki’s Cone of Learning

Remember 10% of what we read
Remember 50% of what we see and hear
Remember 90% of what we say and do

The benefits of simulating your first deal

Builds confidence
Know what to expect if LOI accepted

How to simulate your first multifamily deal

Practice in throw away market
Visit larger properties
Build sample deal package

The 3 kinds of people you should network with

Peer group (Deal Maker’s Mastermind)
Mentors who’ve done what you want
Partners with complementary skills

Why we recommend following a proven process

Don’t have figure out next step on own
Avoid expensive mistakes

The benefit of being able to analyze deals

Need for negotiating and making offers
Confidence to talk to brokers/investors

Connect with Drew Kniffin

Nighthawk Equity

Drew on Twitter

Drew on LinkedIn

Resources

Join Michael’s Deal Maker’s Mastermind

Learn More About Deal Maker Live

Get Michael’s Blueprint to Your First Multifamily Deal

Access Michael’s Syndicated Deal Analyzer

Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

Robert Kiyosaki’s Cone of Learning

Sample Deal Package

The Deal Maker Certification on MB EP262

The Multifamily Millionaire, Volume I by Brandon Turner and Brian Murray

MB293: Scale Your Syndication Business Through Social Media – With Brandon Turner

Mon, 22 Nov 2021 06:00:00 -0400

Imagine having the ability to raise $100M for syndication deals in less than 18 months on your favorite social media platform! The fact is, you can take advantage of Facebook, Instagram and even TikTok to reach accredited investors and build connection until they trust you with their money. But how do you create a personal brand and grow an audience online?

Brandon Turner is a real estate investor, entrepreneur, speaker and host of the BiggerPockets Podcast. He serves as Founder and Managing Partner at Open Door Capital, a firm that focuses on value-add multifamily properties and mobile home parks. Brandon is also the coauthor of the recently released two-volume series The Multifamily Millionaire.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Brandon joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to discuss his recent shift to large multifamily projects, explaining how his platform allows him to raise tens of millions in days on Instagram. He shares his passion for mobile home parks, challenging aspiring investors to ‘follow our fire’ and surround ourselves with the people doing what we want. Listen in for Brandon’s insight on building a personal brand and learn to leverage the power of a platform to scale your syndication business!

Key Takeaways

What inspired Brandon’s shift to large multifamily

Got in room with investors doing bigger projects
Realized not aligned with what could be doing

Why Brandon is fired up about mobile home parks

Wanted to be at bottom of market in recession
Love challenge of hard things (passion = suffering)

Brandon’s pivot to large multifamily syndications

Bring ability to raise capital to JV partnerships
3 deals worth more than 20 mobile home parks

Why Brandon likes building his platform on Instagram

Good for getting people to know, like and trust you
People choose to invest based on how you live

How Brandon would build a following if he had to start over

Use Instagram reels/TikTok to reach lots of people
Build connection on Instagram, funnel to email list

Why Brandon is building his email and text lists

Instagram can’t take away addresses or phone #s
Reach out to accredited investors (high open rate)

Brandon’s insight on building a personal brand

How other people feel when think about you
Lean into what people say, e.g.: @thedatadeli

The pros and cons of investing in small multifamily

Less cash required and easier to manage
Can only get so big, more competition on deals

The pros and cons of investing in large multifamily

More risk, must be good at business
Can scale quickly and buy $1B in short time

Brandon’s advice to aspiring multifamily investors

Option 1—learn with small projects and scale up
Option 2—bypass with help of mentor/partner
Follow your fire

Connect with Brandon Turner

Brandon on Instagram

Brandon on TikTok

Brandon on BiggerPockets

The Multifamily Millionaire, Volume II by Brandon Turner and Brian Murray

Resources

Find Out More About Michael’s Platform Builders Masterclass

Download Michael’s Free Report—What's the Best Investment: The Stock Market or Real Estate?

Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

Brandon Turner on Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing EP221

BPCON

Brian Murray on LinkedIn

Slybroadcast

Dave Meyer on Instagram

Radical Candor: Be a Kick-Ass Boss without Losing Your Humanity by Kim Scott

MB292: Find the Right Investing Partners Through Core Values

Mon, 15 Nov 2021 06:00:00 -0400

Multifamily investing is a team sport. And choosing the right partners and team members is critical. But how do you go about determining who is a good fit for your organization and who isn’t?

On this solo episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, I discuss the importance of figuring out what you stand for and then using those core values to make decisions in your investing business.

I walk you through the process of determining your core values, explaining how to choose your themes and translate them into easy-to-memorize headers.

Listen in for insight around our core values here at the Michael Blank organization and learn how to get clear on your own values and use them to find the right partners and team members for your investing business!

Key Takeaways

The importance of identifying your core values

Find quality partners and hire team
Use to make important decisions

Our core values here at The Michael Blank brands

Make a difference
Do what you say
Do your best
Get stuff done

How to identify core values in your organization

Themes
Header
Descriptive

The themes we chose at The Michael Blank brands

Integrity
Excellence & Accountability
Teamwork & Contribution
Efficiency & Hard Work

How to translate your themes into headers

Sticky, user-friendly words and phrases
Easily memorized and recalled by team

How to expand your headers into descriptives

Describe what core value means
Clarify in 4 to 8 detailed sentences

Resources

Who: The A Method for Hiring by Geoff Smart and Randy Street

The Core Value Equation: A Framework to Drive Results, Create Limitless Scale and Win the War for Talent by Darius Mirshahzadeh

Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

MB291: From Homeless Addict to Successful Investor – With Rob Rowsell

Mon, 08 Nov 2021 06:00:00 -0400

While most of us resist setbacks and struggles, both are crucial to our growth. In fact, the most successful investors are those who respond to failure with resilience. Who pick themselves up, dust themselves off and take the next step of uncomfortable action toward their dreams.

Rob Rowsell embodies that kind of human will. In 1999, he was a homeless crack addict living on the streets. Then, he stumbled into a rehab center, and through sheer grit, Rob turned his life around. Today, he is a real estate investor, motivational speaker, multiple business owner and bestselling author of Addicted to Life: How I Went from Homeless to Extraordinary Success and Happiness in a Short Period of Time.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Rob joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to share his journey from homeless addict to successful multifamily investor. He explains why so many aspiring investors don’t succeed, challenging us to develop a strong WHY and leverage visualization to reach our goals. Listen in for Rob’s insight on cultivating the mindset you need to take action, grow through the challenges and achieve financial freedom as a multifamily investor!

Key Takeaways

Rob’s struggle with addiction

Hooked on meth and crack cocaine
Homeless and unemployable

What inspired Rob’s decision to change

Realized on path to death or prison
Pain to stay same > pain to change

How Rob got back into society

Choose new people, places and things
Willing to take uncomfortable action

Why aspiring investors don’t take action

Biggest hurdle = previous successes
Lack big enough WHY

How Rob uses visualization to reach his goals

Write out as if already accomplished
Read over to instill yearning, belief

The traits of a successful entrepreneur

Build momentum via stacked action
Willing to act despite uncertainty
Grow through catastrophic failure

How Rob used knowledge to build momentum

Ziglar taught potential to succeed
Saved to buy Carleton Sheets course

How Rob got into real estate

Bought auto repair shops no $ down
Used hard money for first few SFHs

How Rob grew a 1K-unit multifamily portfolio

Start with SFH buy-and-hold strategy
Flip SFHs into small multifamily
Reinvest profits in larger multifamily

Connect with Rob Rowsell

Addicted to Life

Resources

Access Michael’s Syndicated Deal Analyzer

Download Michael’s Deal Maker Blueprint

Addicted to Life: How I Went from Homeless to Extraordinary Success and Happiness in a Short Period of Time by Rob Rowsell

See You at the Top by Zig Ziglar

MB290: An Introvert’s Guide to Investing with Partners – With Camilla Jeffs

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 05:00:00 -0400

While single-family real estate is an individual sport, multifamily investing usually involves partners. But finding someone you trust to work with on a multi-million-dollar apartment deal can be challenging, especially for an introvert. So, how do you overcome limiting beliefs around partnering to become a successful multifamily investor?

Camilla Jeffs is the Founder and CEO of Steady Stream Investments, a firm focused on providing investment opportunities in large multifamily and senior housing communities. Also known as the Introverted Investor, she has served as the GP for four deals in nine months, built a portfolio of 250 units and quit her W-2 job! Camilla has 19 years of experience in real estate, and she is passionate about educating passive investors around the opportunity to achieve financial freedom through multifamily.

On this episode of the Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Camilla joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to share why it took her 15 years to transition from DIY single-family investor to multifamily GP. She describes the limiting beliefs she carried around partnering with others and explains how she excels at raising capital—despite being an introvert. Listen in for Camilla’s insight on investing for a financial, social and environmental return and learn why networking is key in multifamily syndication.

Key Takeaways

Camilla’s experience of quitting her W-2 job

Excited to spend days doing what she loves
Loves flexibility and freedom in schedule

How Camilla got into real estate investing

House hacking out of necessity to start
Build portfolio of SFH + small multifamily

What inspired Camilla’s shift to large multifamily

Tired after 15 years of DIY management
Spending 4 to 5 hours/day on 15 units

Why it took Camilla so long to try multifamily

Limiting beliefs about partnering
Didn’t network with other investors

Why Camilla took on the role of capital raiser

Teacher at heart (despite introversion)
Help people achieve time freedom

The mindset shift that made Camilla successful

Little success with ‘I need your money’
Changed pitch to present opportunity

How Camilla thinks about choosing an operator

Find through mentoring groups, meetups
Different skills but same vision/values

Camilla’s concept of the Investing Trifecta

Financial return
Social return
Environmental return

Connect with Camilla Jeffs

The Introverted Investor

Resources

Download Michael’s Free Report—What’s the Best Investment: The Stock Market or Real Estate?

Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

MB289: Apply the 80/20 Rule to Scale Your Syndication Business – With Perry Marshall

Mon, 25 Oct 2021 05:00:00 -0400

You may have heard the idea that only 20% of what we do in business produces 80% of the results. And it follows that if you identify the right 20% and focus on that, you can scale a syndication business fast. But what does that look like in practice? How do you apply the 80/20 rule to make decisions around how to spend your time?

Endorsed by Forbes and Inc. Magazine, Perry Marshall is one of the most expensive business strategists in the world and the creator of the world’s largest science research challenge, the $10M Evolution 2.0 Prize. Perry’s reinvention of the Pareto Principle is published in the Harvard Business Review, and he is the author of eight books, including 80/20 Sales and Marketing and Memos from the Head Office.

On this episode of the Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Perry joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to explain the concept of the Pareto Principle and discuss how it applies to real estate syndication. He describes how we can leverage the 80/20 pattern to scale an investing business, challenging us to focus 50% of our attention on the right 1% of our investments. Listen in for Perry’s advice on identifying and marketing to the right investors and learn how YOU can use the 80/20 rule to prioritize your time as a multifamily syndicator!

Key Takeaways

The concept of the 80/20 principle

Originated by Italian economist Vilfredo Pareto
Identified 20% of people have 80% of wealth

Perry's realization re: the fractal nature of 80/20

Pattern of 80/20 inside every 80/20
1% of customers make 50% of purchases

How a syndication businesses can scale using 80/20

1% of investments produce 50% of profits
Focus half of attention on right 1%

How to identify the 20% of investors to focus on

Make prospects DO something to qualify lead
Focus marketing on 20%, then repeat process

Perry’s insight around the 20/120 rule of business

20% of activity makes 120% of revenue
Bottom 20% takes you backward

The message in Perry’s book Memos from the Head Office

Tap into spirituality and faith for decision-making
Listen to insight from God to resolve conflict

Connect with Perry Marshall

Perry’s Website

Sell 80/20

Resources

Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

80/20 Sales and Marketing: The Definitive Guide to Working Less and Making More by Perry Marshall

‘80/20 Is a Fractal Law of Nature’ in Harvard Business Review

John Paul Mendocha

Memos from the Head Office: Channeling the Muse in Business and in Life by Perry Marshall and John Fancher

Ultimate Guide to Google Ads by Perry Marshall, Mike Rhodes and Bryan Todd

Ultimate Guide to Facebook Advertising by Perry Marshall, Keith Krance and Thomas Meloche

The Jordan Harbinger Show

MB288: Why Relationships Are Your Best Insurance Policy – With Jordan Harbinger

Mon, 18 Oct 2021 05:00:00 -0400

Most people wait until they need something to start networking. But it’s a real challenge to talk people into helping you when they haven’t heard from you in years. On the other hand, if you make networking a priority and ‘dig the well before you’re thirsty,’ those connections become true friends who fight for you when you need it.

Jordan Harbinger is the host of iTunes Top 100 ranked The Jordan Harbinger Show, a podcast where he interviews the world’s top performers, including legendary actors and musicians, intelligence operatives, professional athletes, iconic writers and other visionary change-makers. Jordan is best known for creating one of the leading self-development programs in the world, with a special emphasis on social capital and relationship building.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Jordan joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to share his proactive approach to networking, explaining why it’s crucial to build relationships before you need them. He offers insight on making connections with A-listers and other high-net-worth individuals, challenging us to provide value and be ‘politely persistent’ for as long as it takes. Listen in for Jordan’s advice on starting over after the breakup of a business partnership and find out why relationships are the best insurance policy money can’t buy.

Key Takeaways

How to find the right level of fearlessness and curiosity

Can’t throw caution to wind without strategy
'Nobody ever went broke selling when up 10%’

Jordan’s transition from law to entrepreneurship

Firm losing clients when market tanked in ‘08
Money saved from Wall Street gave runway
Went all-in on weekly radio show (side hustle)

Jordan’s proactive approach to networking

Build relationships before you need them
Leverage system to keep people top of mind

How Jordan builds relationships with A-listers

Be politely persistent and follow up for years
Make it worth their time to work with you

How Jordan provides value to celebrities

Make publicist’s job easy, introduce network
'Everybody needs something’

How Jordan started over after a business breakup

Took team along (strong relationships)
‘Best revenge is to live well’

What lessons Jordan learned from starting over

Gut check re: who you work with
Recognize people grow at different rates
Double down on networking

Connect with Jordan Harbinger

Jordan’s Networking Course

Resources

Dig Your Well Before You’re Thirsty: The Only Networking Book You’ll Ever Need by Harvey Mackay

Superhuman

Ronan at International Living

MB287: Investing in International Real Estate Markets – With Ronan McMahon

Mon, 11 Oct 2021 05:00:00 -0400

If I could go back in time, I’d return to 2010 and take advantage of the big buying moment in real estate at the time. But Ronan McMahon argues that if you set your sights beyond the States, there are circumstances like that at play somewhere in the world right now—if you’re willing to invest in international markets.

Ronan is a contributing editor at International Living and founder of Real Estate Trend Alert, a newsletter where he explores investment opportunities from all over the world. Ronan spends six months of the year on the road, looking for the best real estate investments around the globe. He is also the author of Profit Principle: An Insider’s Guide to Doubling Your Money in Real Estate Overseas.

On this episode of the Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Ronan joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to explain why investors should consider diversifying with international real estate. He offers insight on the international markets he likes right now, describing how to invest in the path of progress and choose projects with significant upside potential. Listen in for Ronan’s advice on partnering with trusted operators in other countries and learn how his team connects investors with opportunities overseas.

Key Takeaways

How Ronan got into international real estate investing

Invested in home country of Ireland until values too high
Invited to travel, identify projects for International Living

Why investors should consider international real estate

Big buying moments always happening somewhere
Less competition with other investors vs. US

Ronan’s advice on shortening your learning curve

Find trusted partner on ground with local knowledge
Start with market one step from home beat (e.g.: Cabo)

Ronan’s insight on securing financing in international markets

'Forget it’ (come with capital)
Choose projects with incredibly high returns

The international markets Ronan likes right now

Algarve region of Portugal
Tulum and Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Panama City

How Ronan’s business model is set up

Partner with developers for access to first 100 units
Members purchase individual condos at discount

Ronan’s advice on navigating the legal system in other countries

Partner with locals in business for multiple generations
Little recourse in handshake countries with weak courts

How Ronan’s team navigates regulatory issues outside the US

Avoid by connecting developers with individual buyers
Mindful of liability around holding title in Mexico

Connect with Ronan McMahon

Real Estate Trend Alert

Resources

Access Michael’s Blueprint to Your First Multifamily Deal Training

International Living

What Is the Fideicomiso?

MB286: The Rocky Transition from Flips to Multifamily – With J Scott

Mon, 04 Oct 2021 05:00:00 -0400

You might think it would be easy for a well-known flipper to transition to multifamily. But the truth is, a successful career in single-family does NOT translate to the world of apartment building investing.

So, how do you make the leap from single-family rentals and flips to multifamily investor?

J Scott serves as Partner at Bar Down Investments, a multifamily investing firm with a portfolio of 1,000 units. J got his start in single-family real estate and built a reputation in the flipping business, rehabbing 500 properties and authoring four bestselling books in the BiggerPockets library. And then 18 months ago, J made the transition to multifamily investing.

On this episode of the podcast, J joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to share what inspired his move into multifamily and explain why flipping houses is not the path to financial freedom. He opens up about lacking credibility in the multifamily space, offering insight on how to get brokers to trust you if you’re new to the game. Listen in to understand the 3 things you need to get investors to work with you and learn how to build a reputation in the multifamily space—with or without prior real estate experience!

Key Takeaways

How J got into the real estate space

Work long hours as corporate engineer in tech space
Shift to real estate in 2008 to 'put family first'

What inspired J’s transition to multifamily

Burned out on flips and single-family rentals
Had cash to invest but didn’t trust anyone else

Why flipping houses is not the path to financial freedom

Transactional (trade time for money)
Need passive income stream

Why it took J so long to make the shift to multifamily

Ego (reputation as ‘flip guy’)
No credibility in multifamily space

What J did to compensate for his lack of credibility

Admit had to start over, build new relationships
Find mentor and add value

How to get brokers to trust you if you’re new to multifamily

Partner with someone who has track record
Prove serious by underwriting and giving feedback

J’s advice for investors considering a shift to multifamily

Build marketing machine for 6 months first
Multifamily scales much better

The benefit of having single-family experience

Learn mechanics of deal with less money at risk
Skills of acquisitions, underwriting, raising money

The 3 things you need to get an investor to work with you

Build relationship so they LIKE and TRUST you
Make them NEED you (e.g.: retirement plan)

How to differentiate yourself from bigger operators

Do what you’re good at, educate new investors
Tap into personal network

Connect with J Scott

J’s Website

Bar Down Investments

Resources

Access Michael’s Blueprint to Your First Multifamily Deal Training

Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

Books by J Scott

How to Win Friends & Influence People by Dale Carnegie

Ashley Wilson

MB285: Success Starts with Purpose – With David Osborn

Mon, 27 Sep 2021 05:00:00 -0400

The most successful people are also the most purposeful. They create a vision for the future and take steps to get a little better every day.

They take the time to ask: Is my life working for me? If not, how would I like it to look different?

David Osborn is the principal owner of the sixth largest real estate company in the US with 4,500-plus agents and $11B in annual sales. David also runs a real estate investing private equity firm and operates 35 other profitable real estate related businesses in the US and Canada. He is well-known for being one of the cofounders of GoBundance, a community of healthy, wealthy, generous men who choose to lead EPIC lives.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, David joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to explain his tagline, ‘Who you become on your journey is far more important than what you achieve.’ He offers insight on the value of connecting with the right people and growing into the best version of yourself. Listen in to understand why David’s definition of wealth involves more than just money and find out how the most successful people get clear on where they’re going and walk in purpose.

Key Takeaways

How David became a real estate investor

Got start as agent, opened KW franchises in TX, NM
All-in on investing in 2011 but ran out of own capital
Mission to meet wealthy people and raise money
Establish fund to invest in single family rentals

What investments David is bullish on right now

Dwelling spaces and rentals (single and multifamily)
Real estate in Sunbelt states with fewer regulations

Why who you become is more important than what you achieve

Controlling every decision makes you the bottleneck
Leadership means delegating trust (world gets bigger)
External world = reflection of who you are as human

The areas of his life David is working on right now

More present with wife and children
Working with coach on conscious leadership
Meditate on regular basis
Health including workouts
Learning (40 books/year and podcasts)

How David thinks about finding work-life balance

Worked 12-hour days to achieve financial freedom
Work smarter now, better relationships at home

David’s well-rounded definition of wealth

More than just money and financial freedom
Being good human, finding ways to contribute
Having adventures and being well-learned

Why it’s crucial to surround yourself with the right people

Genius of humans = sharing and connectivity
Find peers who push and inspire you to get better

The GoBundance origin story

Accountability partners with Pat Hiban, Tim Rhode
Invite others to join in bucket-list adventures
Growth comes from authenticity and transparency

David’s top lessons learned as an entrepreneur

Know where you’re going (purposeful vision for life)
Invest in marriage and make time for kids

Connect with David Osborn

David’s Website

David on Instagram

Be a Part of Michael’s Deal Maker Mastermind

Resources

Conscious Loving: The Journey to Co-Commitment by Gay & Kathlyn Hendricks

TIGER 21

The 15 Commitments of Conscious Leadership: A New Paradigm for Sustainable Success by Jim Dethmer, Diana Chapman & Kaley Klemp

The Almanack of Naval Ravikant: A Guide to Wealth and Happiness by Eric Jorgenson

Huberman Lab Podcast

Wealth Can’t Wait: Avoid the 7 Wealth Traps, Implement the 7 Business Pillars, and Complete a Life Audit Today! by David Osborn & Paul Morris

Diego Corzo

The Family Board Meeting: You Have 18 Summers to Create Lasting Connection with Your Children by Jim Sheils

Lifespan: Why We Age—and Why We Don’t Have To by David A. Sinclair

Black Belt of the Mind by Fred Grosse

Pat Hiban

Tim Rhode

Scott Harrison of Charity Water

Gary Keller

The Miracle Morning: The Not-So-Obvious Secret Guaranteed to Transform Your Life (Before 8AM) by Hal Elrod

Richard Branson

Tribe of Millionaires: What If One Choice Could Change Everything? by David Osborn & Pat Hiban

Explore Michael’s Deal Maker Certification Training

MB284: How to Structure Multifamily Deals to Mitigate Risk – With Andrew Cushman

Mon, 20 Sep 2021 05:00:00 -0400

Even if you choose the right property, the wrong debt can wreck a multifamily deal. So, what can we do to manage shifts in the real estate market? How do we structure deals in a way that mitigates risk?

Andrew Cushman serves as Principal at Vantage Point Acquisitions, a private equity firm focused on acquiring and repositioning multifamily properties throughout the Southeast US. He left his 9-to-5 as a chemical engineer for real estate in 2007 and built a lucrative house flipping business before finding multifamily in 2011. Since then, Andrew has successfully syndicated more than 2,100 units and launched The Multifamily Accelerator, a mastermind for active and experienced real estate investors.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Andrew joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to explain why he is confident about buying multifamily right now and share what he is doing to maintain deal flow. He offers insight on underwriting to account for a spike in interest rates or a shift in rent growth and shares his secret for finding off-market deals. Listen in as Andrew describes what kind of inflation is good for apartment investors and learn how to structure agency or bridge debt to best manage risk.

Key Takeaways

Why Andrew is confident about buying multifamily right now

Large, sophisticated groups making offers on small properties
Right types of inflation benefit multifamily in particular

The kind of inflation that’s good for multifamily real estate

Labor, cost of building and properties all on rise
Interest rates stay low while incomes increase

Why Andrew used 12-year, fixed-rate debt on a recent deal

Buyer can assume debt in 6 years if interest rates up
Property value likely up if interest rates still low
Option to hold for 6 more years if market in trouble

Andrew’s top strategies for structuring bridge debt

Don’t take maximum leverage, negotiate lower interest rate
5-year loan affords options while 1-year loan does not

How to mitigate the risk of a spike in interest rates

Debt structure with options for exit
Conservative rent growth assumptions
Modify exit cap rate (+ 10 basis points for every year held)

What Andrew is doing to find multifamily deals right now

Leverage long-term broker relationships
Direct outreach to owners in select markets
Driving for dollars

Andrew’s tips for reaching out to owners directly

Ask under what circumstances would consider selling
Be careful not to hurt existing broker relationships

What Andrew is doing to maintain deal flow

Add team member to increase number of leads
Consider expanding into new markets

Andrew’s strategy for bidding on listed multifamily deals

Never win best and final on price (try creative terms)
Stay involved to stay top-of-mind with brokers

How Andrew thinks about rent increases in his underwriting

Current level of rent increases not sustainable
Underwrite to current rents or well below forecast increases
Buy where renovated rent

MB283: The State of Multifamily

Mon, 13 Sep 2021 05:00:00 -0400

Is now really a good time to get started in multifamily?

COVID put real estate on a bit of a roller coaster ride. The market cooled for a bit but then came back even hotter!

So, is it too hot now? What should we be thinking about as we decide whether to invest now or wait until later?

On this solo episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, I explain why there will never be a PERFECT time to get into multifamily and discuss how we adjust our tactics with ups and down in the market.

I offer insight on why real estate prices are going up right now and describe what soaring construction costs, ongoing demand for affordable housing and rising inflation means for multifamily.

Listen in to understand the relationship between rising rents and property values—and find out why investing in REAL assets is the best thing you can do right now!

Key Takeaways

My insight on why now is the right time to get into multifamily

There will never be a PERFECT time to get started
If fundamentals are strong, stick with strategy but adjust tactics
Don’t ask, ‘Should I get started?’ but ‘How can I get started?’

Why real estate prices are going up right now

Low interest rates
Increased demand
Rising inflation

The impact of soaring construction costs

Median price of house up from $286K to $326K
Affordable housing shortage worse than ever

What the current inflationary environment means for multifamily

Rising incomes and rents (in growing markets)
Increasing NOI means value of building goes up

The case for investing in multifamily

Ongoing high demand and limited supply
Rising incomes + inflation = higher rents
High rents + low interest rates = higher prices

Why it’s a good idea to invest in real assets right now

Potential devaluation of dollar
Hold things with intrinsic value

Resources

Get Michael’s Blueprint to Your First Multifamily Deal

‘Construction Costs Are Skyrocketing—Should You Build a House?’ in Forbes

‘The Housing Shortage Is Worse Than Ever—And Will Take a Decade of Record Construction to Fix, Reports Say’ in Forbes

‘Skyrocketing Steel, Lumber Costs Threaten to Slow Construction Jobs’ in Construction Dive

‘Soaring Lumber Prices Add $36,000 to the Cost of a New Home and a Fierce Land Grab Is Only Making It Worse’ on CNBC

‘The Housing Boom Could Be Losing Steam’ on CNN Business

‘Online Searches About Relocations Soar; Lack of Homes for Sale Driving Interest’ in The Washington Post

‘The Housing Shortage—Special Report’ in REALTOR Magazine

‘Once-in-a-Generation Response Needed to Address Housing Supply Crisis’ on the National Association of REALTORS Website

‘Apartment Rents Reach New High in June’ in GlobeSt

‘More Americans Are Leaving Cities, But Don’t Call It an Urban Exodus’ in Bloomberg

What Are You Made Of? Podcast

MB282: Reframe Adversity as Rocket Fuel – With Mike ‘C-Roc’ Ciorrocco

Mon, 06 Sep 2021 05:00:00 -0400

Most people see adversity as a bad thing and avoid it at all costs. But what if setbacks are simply part of the journey to success? What if we can convert adversity into rocket fuel and use it to propel us to the next level?

Mike ‘C-Roc’ Ciorrocco is the CEO of People Building, Inc. and Cofounder of the emerging tech company Blooprinted. He was named one of the Top Business Leaders to Follow in 2020 by Yahoo Finance and was #1 on their list of Top Mortgage Professionals the same year. Mike is also the host of What Are You Made Of? and the bestselling author of Rocket Fuel: Convert Setbacks, Become Unstoppable.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Mike joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to explain why adversity is a good thing, describing how he converts setbacks into rocket fuel to become unstoppable. He walks us through the 3 C’s for achieving any big goal, challenging us to get clear on what we want and commit to taking consistent action. Listen in to find out how Mike got into business with Grant Cardone and learn his approach to reframing adversity as your best teacher.

Key Takeaways

The rocket fuel that makes Mike unstoppable

'Dirty fuel’ of difficult childhood
Future dreams to pull forward

How Mike lifted himself out of a negative environment

Mom encouraged to be leader
Never bought other’s BS to justify failures

Mike’s 3 C’s for realizing you’re not stuck

Clarity
Commitment
Consistency

The importance of your peer group

Bad things happen with wrong associates
Surround self with people aligned with mission

Why people have a hard time committing to a goal

Say it’s hard, try to make self right
Program self to best-case scenario

Why Mike encourages people to tell their story

Journey to success often invisible
Adversity = part of process

The 3 reasons people don’t share their story

Don’t think people care
Embarrassed by story
Underestimate power to impact others

Why adversity is ultimately a good thing

Helps course correct when getting off track
Teaches how to get where going

Mike’s approach to bouncing back from a big setback

SWOT analysis of worst-case scenario
Don’t worry what other people think

How Mike got into business with Grant Cardone

Read 10X Rule, got immersed in his content
Connect with Grant’s team to share successes
Ask to write forward for Rocket Fuel
Work together to launch 10X Incubator

What Mike wants to be remembered for

Make people feel unstoppable
Elevate others to achieve potential

Connect with Mike Ciorrocco

Mike on Clubhouse

Mike on Instagram

Mike on LinkedIn

Blooprinted

Resources

Access Michael’s Blueprint to Your First Multifamily Deal Training

Learn About Michael’s Mentoring Program

Rocket Fuel: Convert Setbacks, Become Unstoppable by Mike Ciorrocco

Grant Cardone

10X Incubator

The 10X Rule: The Only Difference Between Success and Failure by Grant Cardone

Grant Cardone Sales Training University

The Miracle Morning: The Not-So-Obvious Secret Guaranteed to Transform Your Life by Hal Elrod

Vivid Vision: A Remarkable Tool for Aligning Your Business Around a Shared Vision of the Future by Cameron Herold

Sunrise Capital Investors

MB281: How to Scale a Portfolio of Mobile Home Parks – With Kevin Bupp

Mon, 30 Aug 2021 05:00:00 -0400

Scale is crucial to achieving financial freedom with real estate. And while multifamily is the fastest way to achieve scale, there are other commercial asset classes that will get you there, provided you understand the challenges and how to overcome them. Kevin Bupp is living the dream with mobile home parks, and he’s well-versed what it takes to grow a portfolio in this niche market.

Kevin is the CEO of Sunrise Capital Investors, a firm that helps investors build legacy wealth through commercial real estate investing. Kevin and his team focus on mobile home parks and parking assets, market segments with less competition than other asset classes. He has been a real estate investor since he was 19 years old, and he has specialized in mobile home parks for the last 10 years. Kevin is also the host of the Real Estate Investing for Cashflow Podcast.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Kevin joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to discuss the pros and cons of investing in mobile home parks. He explains why he made the commitment to self-manage his portfolio and shares best practices for building your own property management company. Listen in to understand the process of finding mobile home park deals and learn how Kevin built and scaled a successful mobile home park investing business!

Key Takeaways

What Kevin loves about mobile home parks

Very high cash-on-cash returns
Mom-and-pop owners = upside potential
Very low tenant turnover rate

The challenges of mobile home park investing

Difficult to scale (focus on large lots)
Must make commitment to self-manage

How to build a property management company

Add value to established group
Hire from top down, not bottom up

Kevin’s advice on scaling a mobile home portfolio

Grow efficiently, do only good deals
Focus on quality of life

Kevin’s first hires for a property management team

Invest in director of property management
Experienced administrative assistant

What a mobile home park value-add deal looks like

Aesthetic improvements (e.g.: road repair)
Renovate park-owned units
Install new homes on vacant lots
Individual submeters on each lot

Why Kevin prefers selling mobile homes to renting

Little to no profit on renters
Average stay for owners = 9 years

Kevin’s debt strategy for mobile home parks

Fannie and Freddie loans
Community banks or CMBS lenders

How Kevin finds mobile home park deals

Cold call and direct mail prospects
Relationships with brokers

How Kevin gets property owner contact info

Secretary of state site for LLC members
Skip trace software

Why Kevin is getting into parking assets

Cashflow, nice return on investment
Positive future potential

Connect with Kevin Bupp

Kevin’s Website

Real Estate Investing for Cashflow Podcast

Resources

Access Michael’s Blueprint to Your First Multifamily Deal Training

Learn About Michael’s Mentoring Program

Kevin Bupp on Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing EP054

Hunter Thompson on Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing EP087

MB280: Take on the Challenge to Invest Out of Area – With Edna Keep

Mon, 23 Aug 2021 05:00:00 -0400

Investing out of your area is a challenge. And investing WAY out of your area, like in a different country, adds another layer of complexity to doing a deal. But as long as you’re willing to make a decision and start moving forward, there’s nothing you can’t figure out along the way.

Edna Keep is a real estate investment coach and author of Multiple Ways to Wealth: Creating Your Prosperous Lifestyle. Edna spent 15 years as a financial advisor before she was introduced to real estate, and today, her team owns a portfolio of 800 doors worth $65M in both the US and Canada.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Edna joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to share the ins and outs of investing out of area and explain the differences between the US and Canadian markets. She describes the challenges of being a foreign investor, offering insight into what she looks for in a market and how she builds a power team on the ground around a deal. Listen in for Edna’s advice on making a decision and then making it work for you—even if you don’t have all the answers about how a deal will work!

Key Takeaways

What inspired Edna’s interest in real estate

Worked as financial advisor for 15 years
Clients pull money for real estate deals

How Edna pitches seller financing deals

Focus on property owners looking to retire
Keep income stream, avoid taxable event

How Edna finds sellers that are planning to retire

Real estate investment networks
Referrals based on reputation

Edna’s transition to larger multifamily properties

Raise investor capital for Memphis deal
Paid cash ($21,600 per door)

Why Edna prefers real estate over mutual funds

Mutual funds subject to market cycles
Real estate offers consistency

Why Edna is investing in US real estate markets

Hot urban markets, high prices in Canada
Challenging to get financing in Canada

The logistics of investing in a foreign market

Find deal, build power team on ground
Canadian corporation owns US LLC

What Edna looks for in a real estate market

Focus on workforce housing
Look for growing community

Why it’s okay to not have all the answers

Multiple exit strategies available
Work with partners

Edna’s advice for aspiring investors

Make a decision, then make it work
Don’t put all eggs in one basket

Connect with Edna Keep

Edna’s Website

Email edna@ednakeep.com

Resources

Download Michael’s Free Report—What’s the Best Investment: The Stock Market or Real Estate?

Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

National Real Estate Investors Association

Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation

Multifamily Networking from Anywhere in the World on FFWREI EP260

Canadian Real Estate Investment Trusts

M279: Why Real Estate Is the Best Kind of Entrepreneurship – With Pete Schnepp

Mon, 16 Aug 2021 05:00:00 -0400

All entrepreneurial activities are not created equal. Running a service-based business is an active pursuit. You’re managing employees, making sales and then following through with high quality work. But in real estate, once you do the initial legwork, the money comes in automatically with very little effort on your part.

Pete Schnepp is the successful entrepreneur behind Envision Painting and Roof Coatings, Bug Science Pest Control and PRS Properties. Pete got serious about building a real estate portfolio in 2017, and today, his rental income covers his family’s living expenses, and he is financially free.

On this episode of the podcast, Pete joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to discuss what sets real estate apart from other kinds of entrepreneurship. Pete walks us through the steps he took to build a portfolio of properties and explains why his family continues to live below their means despite having achieved financial freedom. Listen in for Pete’s advice on revisiting your goals every day and find out how he is building generational wealth with real estate!

Key Takeaways

What inspired Pete’s interest in real estate

Realized people with money involved in real estate
Needed Plan B to protect family financially

The steps Pete took to build his portfolio

Listened to podcasts and books while driving
Lived below means to save up
Made offers on 10 properties in single weekend

How Pete achieved financial freedom

$10K/month rental income covers living expenses
Goal to hit $20K/month by 2023

Pete’s insight on living below your means

Pay self salary as business owner and live on that
Maintain modest lifestyle even now

How Pete and his wife got on the same page

She supports his big dreams
Prioritize time with family over expensive things

Pete’s future goals when it comes to real estate

Use to create generational wealth
Hold existing properties for passive income

How real estate differs from Pete’s other small businesses

Painting and pest control = active
Real estate = passive and easier to scale

Pete’s advice for aspiring real estate investors

Get clear on 5-year goal
Focus on goal daily

Connect with Pete Schnepp

Pete on LinkedIn

Pete on Facebook

Resources

Rich Dad Poor Dad: What the Rich Teach Their Kids About Money That the Poor and Middle Class Do Not by Robert T. Kiyosaki

Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill

BiggerPockets Real Estate Podcast

The Miracle Morning: The Not-So-Obvious Secret Guaranteed to Transform Your Life (Before 8AM) by Hal Elrod

The Millionaire Next Door: The Surprising Secrets of America’s Wealthy by Thomas J. Stanley and William D. Danko

Learn About Michael’s Mentoring Program

MB278: Raising Money Through a Fund vs. Single-Asset Deals – With Joe Fairless

Mon, 09 Aug 2021 05:00:00 -0400

The vast majority of multifamily syndicators don’t stop with one property. And with each new deal, we start the stressful process of raising money all over again. But it doesn’t have to be that way! So, how does it work to raise capital for multiple deals through a fund?

Joe Fairless is the Cofounder and Partner at Ashcroft Capital, a multifamily firm that invests in 200-plus-unit value-add deals. The Ashcroft team has a portfolio of 38 properties, and in February of 2021, they pivoted from raising money for individual deals to raising capital through funds.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Joe joins me (and the attendees of Deal Maker Live) to discuss the pros and cons of raising money through a fund. He explains the benefit of being able to spread out your capital raise over time, bring on investors whenever they’re ready, and comingle money among deals. Listen in for insight on how Ashcroft structures its funds and find out if YOU’RE ready to start raising money for multifamily through a fund!

Key Takeaways

How Joe achieves work-life integration

Systems, people in place to run business when away
Blurred lines between personal/professional life

How Ashcroft Capital structures its funds

Class A — 10% preferred return, virtually no upside
Class B — 7% pref with 70/30 split on upside

The downside of raising money for funds

LP gets average of all deals (miss out on lightning in bottle)
GP misses out on investors who prefer individual deals

Joe’s take on the advantages of raising money for funds

Don’t have to land on specific equity amount for each deal
Spread out capital raise over time
Bring investors on whenever ready
Creates consistency for investors (GP can comingle money)

When you should consider raising money through a fund

Acquired 5 multifamily deals
At least 2 exits under belt

The pros and cons of using Rule 506(c)

Can advertise deal publicly but accredited investors only
Don’t have to document preexisting relationship

Why Joe’s fund raises money for both class A and B properties

20% of investors class A, 80% of investors class B
Class A shares upside over 10% for less risk

Connect with Joe Fairless

Ashcroft Capital

Resources

Access the Recordings from Deal Maker Live

Tony Robbins on Work-Life Integration

Access the Recordings from Deal Maker Live

MB277: Why Focus on Multifamily Operations? – With Ashley Wilson

Mon, 02 Aug 2021 05:00:00 -0400

In the short term, multifamily investors can have success simply playing the appreciation game. But if you want to build a multifamily portfolio that survives and thrives for the long term, you have to make operations a priority.

Ashley Wilson is the cofounder of Bar Down Investments and the bestselling author of The Only Woman in the Room: Knowledge and Inspiration from 20 Women Real Estate Investors. Ashley has been involved in $60M-plus in real estate transactions in the last 12 years, and she leads asset and construction management for her own multifamily investments.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Ashley joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to explain why it’s essential for syndicators to focus on operations. Ashley shares her take on the lack of women in real estate, offering advice on how to increase the number of women investors and influencers in the space. Listen in for Ashley’s insight on the #1 skill you need to be a successful investor and find out how to marry asset and construction management to maximize the value of YOUR multifamily portfolio!

Key Takeaways

What lights Ashley up about multifamily real estate

Finding best way to maximize value of property
Operations (how tenants think, market shifts, etc.)

How Ashley’s real estate strategy has evolved over time

Hands-off house hacking, STRs while working full-time
Shift to high-end flips after retired from pharmaceuticals
Desire to work smarter not harder led to multifamily

Why multifamily is the holy grail for Ashley’s needs

Obvious tax advantages, hedge against inflation
Market demand (need due to housing shortage)

Why syndicators need to focus on operations

Can’t succeed long-term by way of appreciation alone
Learn through management of difficult properties
100% collections on all properties throughout COVID

The benefit of marrying asset and construction management

Exploit market demands, minimize loss-to-lease
Build up right tenants = easier to operate long term

What inspired Ashley to write The Only Woman in the Room

Just 14 women out of 450 investors at MidAtlantic Summit
Highlight stories, provide role models for next generation

Ashley’s take on the lack of women in the real estate business

Women not encouraged to pursue STEM fields until now
Math and finance necessary foundation for investing

Why determination is the #1 skill of a successful investor

Overrides fear of asking questions and taking risks
Seek out knowledge, push through self-doubt

How to increase the number of women investors and influencers

Provide opportunities to speak at events based on merit
Best way to be introduced = have someone introduce you

Ashley’s advice to aspiring women real estate investors

Start building relationships (net worth = network)
Exploit free platforms to learn fundamentals

Connect with Ashley Wilson

Bar Down Investments

Ashley on Instagram

Ashley on BiggerPockets

Resources

The Only Woman in the Room: Knowledge and Inspiration from 20 Women Real Estate Investors compiled by Ashley Wilson

MidAtlantic Summit

The Real Estate InvestHER Community

MB276: Add a Zero to Your Next Capital Raise – With Jonathan Barr

Mon, 26 Jul 2021 05:00:00 -0400

So, you want to go for bigger deals, but your current network is pretty much tapped out. Maybe you struggled to raise $500K for your last deal, and you’d like to add a zero for the next one. How do you attract new investors and scale your capital raise?

Jonathan Barr is the Cofounder and Principal at JB2 Investments, a real estate investment firm specializing in 70-plus-unit value-add projects in high cashflow, landlord-friendly markets. Jonathan began his real estate career in 2009, facilitating the acquisition of 400 residential flips in the LA market that generated $22M in profit for his family’s business.

On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Jonathan joins me to explain what inspired him to invest outside the LA market, sharing the mental blocks he had to overcome to buy properties in the Midwest. Jonathan walks us through his first multifamily deal in Oklahoma City, discussing why he had a hard time raising money for it and how he built an online platform to solve that problem. Listen in for Jonathan’s insight on using Twitter to attract new investors and learn how to scale YOUR ability to raise capital through content creation!

Key Takeaways

How Jonathan got involved in real estate

Grew up in real estate family in LA
Join flip, development business

The pros and cons of working in a family business

Feel ultimate support and trust
Hierarchy of parent-child relationship

What Jonathan learned in SFH acquisitions that translates to multifamily

Conduct due diligence, use checklists to mitigate mistakes
Discuss deals with team and bounce ideas

What inspired Jonathan to invest outside the LA market

Buy-and-hold duplexes in LA only making 3% in equity
Potential to triple cashflow by moving money to KC

Jonathan’s mental block around investing out of the LA market

Unable to drive to properties and manage himself
Hard to feel comfortable delegating responsibility

Why Jonathan made the shift to multifamily

Margins on flips low, always chasing next deal
Apartment buildings much more tax efficient

Why Jonathan joined our mentoring program last year

Left family business in January 2020
Used to having parents as mentors

Jonathan’s first multifamily deal

Closed on 72-unit property in OKC in September
Cut expenses by 25%, beating projections by 30%

Why Jonathan had a hard time raising money for his first deal

First deal in OKC market (no track record there)
Uncertainty of pandemic

How Jonathan built an online platform to raise capital

Offer free eBook to build email list
Post content daily on Twitter

Jonathan’s take on why content creation is so important

Gives potential investors insight into business
Shows thoughtful and thorough, builds trust

Jonathan’s insight on how to create content

Get ideas from questions you get, other podcasts
Block off time to write multiple posts at once

Jonathan’s advice for syndicators who are tapped out on capital

Post video or blog every week
Focus energy on single social platform

Connect with Jonathan Barr

Resources

Enter the Financial Freedom Podcast Launch Contest

The Tax Stack Strategy: The Magic of Paying Less Tax Using Real Estate by Jonathan Barr

Enter to Win the Financial Freedom Podcast Launch Contest

MB 275: Is This the End of the Apartment Building Investing Podcast?

Fri, 16 Jul 2021 05:00:00 -0400

In nearly 300 episodes of the Apartment Building Investing podcast, I’ve talked to big names in real estate like Robert Kiyosaki, Brandon Turner and Grant Cardone. I’ve also had conversations with countless men and women you may not have heard of who achieved financial freedom through multifamily syndications.

And now, Apartment Building Investing is coming to an end. But only because we’re celebrating a new beginning and rebranding the show as Financial Freedom with Real Estate!

On this episode, I explain how Financial Freedom with Real Estate more accurately reflects our mission here at The Michael Blank Organization. I explain what makes investing in apartments better than single family homes, sharing examples of people we’ve empowered to quit their jobs and live a life of purpose through multifamily investing. Listen in for insight on the benefits of our Deal Maker Certification training and find out how to WIN the course in our Financial Freedom Podcast Launch Contest!

Key Takeaways

Why we’re renaming the podcast Financial Freedom with Real Estate

Accurately communicates mission of organization
Reach more people thinking about investing

Why apartments are superior to investing in single family homes

Performs better in down markets
More consistent returns
Pay self acquisition fees as syndicator
Secure non-recourse debt
Control value of property
Achieve financial freedom in 2 years

How financial freedom empowers people to live a life of purpose

Realize you’re here for something bigger than yourself
Sets you up to make impact, become difference-maker

What you learn from our Deal Maker Certification training

Proven system to achieve financial freedom with multifamily
Process for doing first deal, quitting job and scaling portfolio

Resources

Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

Explore Michael’s Deal Maker Certification Training

Financial Freedom Hall of Fame

MB 274: Residential Assisted Living with Heart (at Scale) – With Loe Hornbuckle

Mon, 12 Jul 2021 05:00:00 -0400

Multifamily investors know the advantages of scale. But when it comes to residential assisted living or RAL, bigger isn’t always better. The big-box model often leads to poor healthcare outcomes, treating residents not as individuals but part of a process. So, how can investors scale senior living facilities without compromising care?

Loe Hornbuckle is CEO of Sage Oak Assisted Living and Memory Care and Cofounder of GoodHorn Capital, a real estate investment firm focused on recession-resistant asset classes including build-to-rent and senior living. Loe has a heart for improving the residential assisted living experience, providing residents with both the quality care associated with small RAL facilities and the advantages of scale.

On this episode of Apartment Building Investing, Loe joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to share his unique, hybrid approach to building assisted living and memory care facilities. Loe explains how his father’s bad experience in hospice inspired his interest in RAL and offers insight on applying his strategy to multifamily deals. Listen in to understand how Loe is solving the scaling problems of residential assisted living and find out if the business of caretaking is right for YOU.

Key Takeaways

Loe’s approach to building assisted living and memory care facilities

Unique physical plant and operations (boutique experience)
Campus of 10 buildings with 16 residents in each

How Loe is solving the scaling problems of residential assisted living

Campus of care homes can use third-party management
Much easier to appraise and finance through bank

What Loe’s campus of care homes looks like

5 or 6 homes (9K ft2) + 2-story sales and admin office
Homes have four quadrants and commons area

What inspired Loe’s interest in assisted living as an asset class

Dad had really bad experience in hospice care
Presentation and podcast on converting real estate to RAL

How an investor can get into the business of caretaking

Invest as LP with operator you believe in
Hire team with medical background

How Loe thinks about processes and systems in RAL

Works only up to point to establish baseline
Hire for heart and talent, get out of way

The critical hires for a residential assisted living facility

Executive director and head of clinical team
Look for integrator or visionary

How to apply Loe’s RAL strategy to multifamily investing

Analyze deal if converted to age-restricted community
Additional tool for competing on deals

Loe’s advice on getting started with residential assisted living

Must have heart for business and strong WHY
Determine core competencies of team, hire for gaps

Connect with Loe Hornbuckle

Loe on LinkedIn

GoodHorn Capital

Resources

SEAL of God by Chad Williams

MB 273: A SEAL’s Take on Responding to Adversity – With Chad Williams

Mon, 05 Jul 2021 05:00:00 -0400

Adversity is not optional. Whether you’re a Navy SEAL or a multifamily investor, you’re going to face difficult circumstances. And while you don’t have control over what happens, you DO control how you respond. Are you going to let adversity knock you down? Or will you rise to the occasion?

Chad Williams the bestselling author of SEAL of God, a memoir of his grueling journey through Naval Ops training and onto the war-torn streets of Iraq. Chad is also a sought-after international speaker, drawing on his experience as Navy SEAL to share lessons around teamwork, integrity, mental toughness and overcoming adversity, and he is set to deliver the keynote address at Deal Maker Live next week in Dallas.

On this episode of Apartment Building Investing, Chad joins cohost Drew Kniffin and me to explain how the principles he mastered as a SEAL apply to multifamily investing, challenging us to be servant leaders and stay calm in the face of adversity. Chad offers advice on staying the course in difficult times, describing how a strong WHY made him one of only 13 SEAL trainees to graduate (in a class of 173). Listen in for Chad’s insight on the choice you have to let adversity be a weight or a wing and learn to be resilient regardless of the challenges life brings your way!

Key Takeaways

The story of Chad’s final operation in Iraq

Hunt men who make suicide vests and roadside bombs
Work side by side with Iraqi Special Operations Forces
ISOF led final initiative but ambushed during operation

What it looks like to be a servant leader

Foster environment of loyalty, trust and sense of family
Esteem needs of others as greater than your own

Chad’s advice on how to respond to adversity

Find ways to rise to occasion (choose wing vs. weight)
Calmness is contagious, true leader controls emotions

The challenge of completing the training to become a SEAL

173 in Chad’s class but only 13 made it to graduation
Hell week = 4 hours of sleep in 5½ days, run 200 miles

How to stay the course and endure through challenging times

WHY bigger than just you, e.g.: faith, family or friends
What would you write inside your hat?

Connect with Chad Williams

Navy SEAL Chad Williams

SEAL of God on Instagram

Resources

Access Michael’s Free Report—What’s the Best Investment: The Stock Market or Real Estate?

Download Michael’s Free eBook: The Secret to Raising Money for Your First Apartment Building

Asset Management Mastery Podcast

MB 272: Best Practices for Multifamily Asset Management – With Kyle Mitchell

Mon, 28 Jun 2021 05:00:00 -0400

Asset management may not be as sexy as raising money or chasing deals. But it’s the aspect of multifamily investing that makes a deal successful—or not. So, what’s involved in the operation of an apartment building? And how can an asset manager work with their property management team to solve problems together?

Kyle Mitchell is the cofounder of Asset Management Mastery, a platform designed to help multifamily investors become best-in-class operators. Kyle owns and operates a portfolio of 400 units worth $400M in Tucson and Phoenix, Arizona. He is also the coauthor of Best in Class: How to Manage Your Multifamily Asset, Avoid Mistakes and Build Wealth Through Real Estate and serves as a mentor with The Michael Blank organization.

On this episode of Apartment Building Investing, Kyle joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to discuss the role of a multifamily asset manager, explaining how he conducts monthly secret shopper audits and what KPIs he tracks on a regular basis. Kyle describes what attracted him to the asset management side of the business, discussing how he partners with the property management team to get the best out of a property. Listen in for Kyle’s hands-on approach to renovation management and find out how he is navigating material and labor shortages in the aftermath of the pandemic.

Key Takeaways

The role of a multifamily asset manager

Hold property management company accountable
Partner with PM team to get best out of property

What attracted Kyle to asset management

Background in operations at golf courses
Identified gap in that side of multifamily business

Why Kyle moved into the market where he invests

Easier to build relationships as boots on ground
Opportunity to grow portfolio

How Kyle conducts a monthly secret shopper audit

80-point system (send scorecard to PM team)
Different phone #, email address and question

What key performance indicators Kyle tracks

Marketing metrics (# of leads, conversion ratio)
Lease trade-outs, rental and RUBS comps

How Kyle handles multifamily renovation management

Property management company has in-house team
Track tasks on Trello goal to finish in 21 days

How to navigate the current material and labor shortages

Order in bulk and secure storage on site
Build deep roster of vendors

What Kyle does when a property manager isn’t performing

Direct line to owner of PM company
Weekly call to discuss cause of issues

How to be proactive when it comes to asset management

Partner or team member with ops experience
Reach out to peers in multifamily industry

Connect with Kyle Mitchell

Asset Management Mastery

Asset Management Summit

Passive Income Through Multifamily Real Estate Podcast

Best in Class: How to Manage Your Multifamily Asset, Avoid Mistakes and Build Wealth Through Real Estate by Kyle Mitchell and Gary Lipsky

Resources

Download Michael’s Free eBook: The Secret to Raising Money for Your First Apartment Building

Kyle Mitchell on Apartment Building Investing EP172

Neal Bawa’s LASAL Revenue Management System

Conservice: The Utility Experts

Bringing Value, Solving Problems and Leaving a Legacy by Tim Lyons et al.

MB 271: Start with Belief & Build a Multifamily Business – With Timothy Lyons

Mon, 21 Jun 2021 05:00:00 -0400

What does a multifamily investor look like? If you grew up in a working-class family that didn’t talk about money, let alone investing, you may have a hard time seeing yourself as a successful syndicator. But you don’t have to be a Wall Street guy to build a multifamily real estate business. You can raise millions of dollars for deals no matter where you come from… But you’ve got to BELIEVE you can.

Timothy Lyons is a 15-year veteran of the New York City Fire Department and Principal and Managing Partner at Cityside Capital. He invested in his first 3-family property at the end of 2019, and today, he has been involved in 5 syndications worth over $100M. Tim is also a contributor to Bringing Value, Solving Problems and Leaving a Legacy, a collection of powerful stories of transformation from thought leaders, entrepreneurs and real estate investors.

On this episode of Apartment Building Investing, Tim joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to discuss the power of belief, explaining how he overcame imposter syndrome to build a portfolio of 720-plus units in 12 months. Tim shares why he was skeptical about investing in a coach and how he realized the value of aligning with a network of people who are successful at what you want to do. Listen in for Tim’s amazing story of going all-in on multifamily at the start of the pandemic and learn to push through YOUR limiting beliefs and achieve financial freedom with real estate!

Key Takeaways

Why Tim got into real estate investing

Working 90 hours/week as firefighter and ER nurse
Missing out on time with wife and 3 kids

Tim’s first 3-family property

Financed with own money for proof of concept
Rehabbed units, achieved cashflow soon after

The next steps Tim took to go bigger, faster

Invest in education and mentoring
Learn as much as possible about money, taxes

How Tim overcame his resistance to investing in a coach

Talked to students in different programs
Realized value of aligning with network

The timeline around Tim’s multifamily education

Separated from family (first 7 weeks of pandemic)
Crush through material in coaching program

How Tim realized the power of multifamily syndication

Invited to join coach’s deal, follow process
Raised $200K from personal network

How Tim overcame limiting beliefs re: raising money

Identity shift to see self as investor
Share power of investing with network

How Tim is raising $2.5M for his fifth syndication

Talk about what he’s doing with everyone
Build online thought leadership platform

Tim’s advice for aspiring multifamily investors

Education = antidote to fear
Surround self with right people and take action

What Tim did to overcome imposter syndrome

Develop willingness to fail forward
Connect with fantastic coaches

Connect with Timothy Lyons

Cityside Capital

Resources

Invest in Michael’s Deal Maker Certification Training

Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing: The Blueprint to Quitting Your Job with Real Estate Investing—Even Without Experience or Cash by Michael Blank

Download Michael’s Free eBook: The Secret to Raising Money for Your First Apartment Building

Rich Dad Poor Dad: What the Rich Teach Their Kids About Money That the Poor and Middle Class Do Not by Robert T. Kiyosaki

Real Estate Guys Radio

Upstate Commercial Apartment Investor Group Meetup

MB 270: Partner Up & Push Through Adversity – With Gary Van Bortel & John Bilinski

Mon, 14 Jun 2021 05:00:00 -0400

It’s easy to talk yourself out of your first multifamily deal. Working through obstacle after obstacle alone wears on a first-time syndicator, and you feel like giving up. But if you partner with another investor, you don’t want to let each other down. And you push through adversity, showing up with a kind of tenacity you may not have had on your own.

Gary Van Bortel and John Bilinski are the syndication team behind ROC Capital Group, a multifamily investment firm out of Rochester, New York. Gary and John have 30 years of investing experience between them, building individual portfolios of single family and small multifamily properties before partnering on their first apartment syndication in 2020, a $1M raise for 48-unit deal in Syracuse. Gary and John are also the organizers of the Upstate Commercial Apartment Investors Meetup.

On this episode of Apartment Building Investing, Gary and John join cohost Garrett Lynch and me to explain why they decided to work together, describing how a partnership motivates you to keep moving forward—even when a deal gets hairy. Gary and John discuss how they connected with potential investors through a local Meetup and share how they got investors to commit to their first deal. Listen in for insight on pushing through when things don’t go according to plan (I’m looking at you, COVID) and learn to leverage a strong partnership to work through obstacles together.

Key Takeaways

How Gary got into real estate

Bought duplex as first house
Potential for living cost-free

How John got into real estate

Looking for passive income
Renovate and rent homes

What inspired Gary and John’s shift to multifamily

Learn about syndication on podcast
Ability to scale fast resonated with both

Why Gary and John decided to partner

Bring complementary strengths to table
Harder to talk self out of deal, give up

How Gary and John primed investors

Formed local multifamily Meetup group
Presentations on aspects of syndication

How Gary and John found their first deal

Deal for large portfolio through broker
Buyer willing to sell individual property

What made Gary and John’s first deal a challenge

Owner being indicted
Hard to get title insurance

Gary and John’s journey to raising $1M

Nervous at closing, far from goal
Met with potential investors 1:1

How Gary and John got investors on board

Own skin in game but not taking return
Willing to show property despite risk

The obstacles Gary and John faced with COVID

Property manager unable to go onsite
Asbestos issue meant displacing tenants

Gary and John’s advice for aspiring syndicators

Build community of potential investors
Get educated on logistics, partner up

Connect with Gary Van Bortel & John Bilinski

ROC Capital Group

Email gary@roccapitalgroup.com

Email john@roccapitalgroup.com

Resources

Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing: The Blueprint to Quitting Your Job with Real Estate Investing—Even Without Experience or Cash by Michael Blank

Download Michael’s Free eBook: The Secret to Raising Money for Your First Apartment Building

MB 269: Repositioning Hotels as Multifamily Assets – With Serge Shukhat

Mon, 07 Jun 2021 05:00:00 -0400

COVID decimated the hotel industry, bringing property values down significantly. And savvy multifamily investors are buying distressed hotels on the cheap and converting them into apartment buildings. But what are the pros and cons of this strategy?

Serge Shukhat serves as Principal at Zona Capital, LLC, a real estate investment firm that specializes in acquiring value-add multifamily and mobile home park assets. Serge spent 13 years as a corporate warrior before leaving his W-2 in 2012 with the cashflow from 70 single family rentals. Then he shifted his focus to multifamily and now owns a portfolio of more than 1,000 units. And in the last two years, Serge has developed an innovative strategy for repositioning hotels as multifamily properties.

On this episode of Apartment Building Investing, Serge joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to share his approach to converting hotels into apartment buildings. Serge explains why he operates the units as Airbnbs to start and leases them up gradually and describes the challenges of running this kind of hybrid property. Listen in for Serge’s insight on the barriers to entry for repositioning hotels and learn how YOU can benefit from acting on this unconventional multifamily play!

Key Takeaways

How Serge got involved in real estate

Searching for way out of corporate job
Started buying single family during recession

How Serge analyzes price per door

What other investors are buying at
Rebuild cost in market

What inspired Serge to reposition hotels as multifamily

Hotels cheaper than multifamily properties
No competition on deals

Serge’s first hotel-to-apartment conversion

70-unit with kitchens, easy market for permitting
Bought with re-trade due to COVID at 15% off

Serge’s Airbnb bridge strategy

Operate units as STRs to start, lease up slowly
Provides immediate cashflow

What makes Serge’s STR bridge strategy work

On-site team manages Airbnb units
Property operates at maximum efficiency

The challenges of hotel-to-multifamily conversions

Permitting and zoning
Takes property manager outside comfort zone

Why Serge is conflicted about shifting to full multifamily

Cashflow of Airbnb units = 3X long-term lease
STR-multifamily hybrid makes exit harder

Connect with Serge Shukhat

Serge on BiggerPockets

Serge on LinkedIn

Resources

Download Michael’s Free eBook: The Secret to Raising Money for Your First Apartment Building

Garrett on The Real Estate Syndication Show with Whitney Sewell

Access Michael’s Free Blueprint to Your First Multifamily Deal Training

MB 268: The 6 Seismic Shifts to Become a Successful Investor

Mon, 31 May 2021 05:00:00 -0400

I used to dismiss mindset as the key to success. But I’ve since come to understand that until you get your head straight, you won’t take action. So, what mindset shifts do you need to make to become a successful multifamily investor?

On this solo episode of Apartment Building Investing, I walk you through the 6 seismic shifts it takes to quit your job with real estate, challenging you to clear on WHY you want financial freedom and develop a strong belief in yourself and the system you’re following.

I explain why you have to accept that you don’t know everything and take consistent action over time to see results. Listen in for insight on playing the long game and learn the benefits of partnering with others to scale a successful syndication business!

Key Takeaways

Seismic Shift #1—Clarity

Get clear on what you want, why you want it
Develop through morning routine

Seismic Shift #2—Belief

Believe in yourself, higher power and system
Build through affirmations and visualization

Seismic Shift #3—Surrender

Give up portion of ego to be COACHABLE
Network with advisor or hire mentor

Seismic Shift #4—Consistency

Tiny action every day yields results
Analyze deals + meet investors = first deal

Seismic Shift #5—Play the long game

Don’t look for instant gratification
Seek permanent change and leave legacy

Seismic Shift #6—Be open to working with others

Partner on single deal for limited downside
Scale faster, focus on what YOU like to do

Resources

Watch the Replay of Michael’s Platform Builders Masterclass

The Miracle Morning: The Not-So Obvious Secret Guaranteed to Transform Your Life (Before 8AM) by Hal Elrod

Grant Cardone on The School of Greatness EP497

The Investor Mindset Podcast

MB 267: The 5 Success Principles of Top Real Estate Investors– With Steven Pesavento

Mon, 24 May 2021 05:00:00 -0400

After interviewing 100 of the top real estate investors, Steven Pesavento realized that mindset really is the foundation of investing success. So, how do the most successful investors and entrepreneurs think differently? And how can you apply these same principles to your investing efforts and achieve real-world success?

Steven is the President and Trusted Advisor at VonFinch Capital, a real estate firm out of Denver, Colorado, that focuses on curating hassle-free passive investments. He flipped 200 houses in three years before transitioning to multifamily in 2020. Steven is also the host of The Investor Mindset Podcast and the author of Principles of Success: Lessons from Top Real Estate Investors.

On this episode of Apartment Building Investing, Steven joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to share his five success principles of top real estate investors and explain why mindset is so important to investing success. Steven describes what inspired his shift from flipping houses to multifamily and what steps he took to make the transition to commercial real estate. Listen in for Steven’s insight on what it looks like to have your mindset tested and learn to apply his success principles in the real world of real estate investing!

Key Takeaways

What inspired Steven’s shift from flipping to multifamily

Unable to scale (even with high volume)
Benefits of securing long-term debt

What steps Steven took to transition to commercial real estate

Find successful investors to learn from or partner with
Study different asset classes and determine best fi

Why Steven decided multifamily was the right asset class

Similarities between residential and multifamily
Alignment with values makes it easier to focus
Ideal clients asking for longer-term investments
Historically most stable asset class in real estate

Why mindset is important to investing success

Thoughts lead to actions which generate results
Must believe it’s possible to succeed

Steven’s 5 success principles of top real estate investors

View challenges as opportunities
Ultra-focused on doing 1 thing really well
Super-clear on what they want
Know their purpose
Work with great mentors and coaches

How to apply the 5 success principles in real-world investing

Recognize that mindset = code your mind runs on
Sit down with pen and paper to get clear on goals
Check in on consistent basis to replace old beliefs

Steven’s experience with having his mindset tested

First multifamily deal under contract (March 2020)
Litigious LP asked for $800K more just before close
Money wrapped up in deal, still under contract

Connect with Steven Pesavento

The Investor Mindset

Investor Mindset on Facebook

Resources

Download Michael’s Free eBook: The Secret to Raising Money for Your First Apartment Building

Principles of Success: Lessons from Top Real Estate Investors by Steven Pesavento

VonFinch Capital

Never Split the Difference: Negotiating as If Your Life Depended On It by Chris Voss and Tahl Raz

Joe Fairless

Michael on The Investor Mindset Podcast EP075

Rich Dad Poor Dad: What the Rich Teach Their Kids About Money That the Poor and Middle Class Do Not by Robert T. Kiyosaki

The ABCs of Real Estate Investing: The Secrets of Finding Hidden Profits Most Investors Miss by Ken McElroy

Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action by Simon Sinek

Lifestyle Investor Podcast

MB 266: The 10 Commandments of Lifestyle Investing – With Justin Donald

Mon, 17 May 2021 05:00:00 -0400

A lifestyle investor doesn’t trade time for money. They buy cashflowing assets that replace their W-2 income and go on to build a life around what matters most—focusing on their family, their passions and their purpose.

So, what steps can YOU take to become a financially independent lifestyle investor?

Justin Donald is the Founder of The Lifestyle Investor, a platform designed to help people use low-risk, cashflow investing to enjoy a life of passive income NOW. He leveraged real estate to grow his net worth to eight figures in less than two years, and he shares the blueprint in The Lifestyle Investor: The 10 Commandments of Cashflow Investing for Passive Income and Financial Freedom. Justin also serves as the host of the Lifestyle Investor Podcast.

On this episode of Apartment Building Investing, Justin joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to discuss the steps he took to replace his lifestyle income and create a life of his own design. Justin explains how he got his start investing in mobile home parks and walks us through his first three commandments for investing in income-producing assets. Listen in for insight on Justin’s mission to help investors buy our time back, achieve financial freedom and pursue a purposeful, inspiring life!

Key Takeaways

What Justin covers in The Lifestyle Investor

10 criteria for how he invests for cashflow
Buy time with income-producing assets

The steps to becoming a lifestyle investor

Connect with other people on similar path
Find mentors who’ve done what you want

How Justin defines a lifestyle investor

Leverage assets that produce cashflow
Create intentional life of own design

How Justin got into real estate investing

Replace income with mobile home parks
Diversify with other kinds of investments

Justin’s first 3 commandments of lifestyle investing

Lifestyle first (create freedom vision)
Reduce risk
Find invisible deals

What investors learn in Justin’s mastermind

Evaluate deals, advice from community
Access to deal flow and tax strategy

The danger of herd mentality investing

Listen to people with proven track record
Do your own due diligence

Justin’s advice on finding income amplifiers

Don’ be afraid to negotiate different terms
Way deal shows up not how has to end

How long it took Justin to achieve financial freedom

2 years to cover family’s basic expenses
3 years to cover lifestyle income ($12K/mo)

What Justin wants his legacy to be

Help people live life desire TODAY
Show plan for how to get there

Connect with Justin Donald

The Lifestyle Investor

The Lifestyle Investor: The 10 Commandments of Cashflow Investing for Passive Income and Financial Freedom by Justin Donald

Lifestyle Investor Mastermind

Lifestyle Investor Coaching

Resources

Love Justice International

Tony Robbins

Michael on Lifestyle Investor EP028

Philippe on The Michael Blank Mentorship Team

MB 265: Build Relationships, Build a Multifamily Business – With Philippe Schulligen

Mon, 10 May 2021 05:00:00 -0400

The beauty of multifamily investing is that you don’t do it alone. If you’re just getting started, you can bring a deal to an experienced operator. And once you’ve built a network of your own, you can flip the script and cosponsor deals with up-and-coming syndicators, leveraging your relationships to raise money for deals and scale your business faster!

Philippe Schulligen is the Founder of Five Five Five Ventures, a firm dedicated to helping professionals navigate multifamily real estate investments. Philippe is the co-owner of 1,450 multifamily units worth $70M, and he has raised $22M in capital from investors. Philippe spent 20 years in corporate aviation before quitting his 9-to-5 for real estate, and he also serves as a mentor for The Michael Blank organization.

On this episode of Apartment Building Investing, Philippe joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to explain how he got his start in multifamily by partnering with an experienced operator. Philippe describes how building relationships with a network allowed him to scale faster and shift from finding deals to becoming a cosponsor and capital raiser. Listen in as Philippe gets real about what he learned when an equity partner bailed on a big deal at the last minute and find out how to start building YOUR multifamily network with the help of a mentor like Philippe!

Key Takeaways

How Philippe got into real estate

Looking for additional stream of income
Started with single family turnkeys

Why Philippe pivoted to multifamily

Vacancies big problem with small portfolio
Hard to scale single family business

Philippe’s approach to multifamily investing

Partner with experienced operator
Get educated through Deal Maker Blueprint

Philippe’s first 2 multifamily deals

80-unit in Memphis, found on LoopNet
Broker call re: 168-unit on day of close

What surprised Philippe most about multifamily

Networking led to cosponsoring deals
Relationships allow you to scale faster

What gave Philippe the confidence to make his first offer

Act AS IF Nighthawk had already said YES
Understood quality of deal bringing to table

Philippe’s advice on becoming a successful cosponsor

Offer to help other operators with due diligence
Support by sharing network of investors

How Philippe identifies potential JV partners

Ask what working on and if need any help
Prerequisite = senior partner in common

What Philippe learned from a big deal that fell through

Always have backup plan
Don’t be first in network to try equity partner

What inspired Philippe to become a mentor

Corporate aviation industry suffered in COVID
Happy to share experience with others

Connect with Philippe Schulligen

Five Five Five Ventures

Email philippe@555ventures.com

Resources

Purchase Michael’s Syndicated Deal Analyzer

Access Michael’s Deal Maker Certification Training

Partner with Michael Through the Deal Desk

Download Michael’s Free eBook The Secret to Raising Money to Buy Your First Apartment Building

Gino Wickman on Apartment Building Investing EP243

BiggerPockets

Entrepreneurial Leap: Do You Have What It Takes to Become an Entrepreneur? by Gino Wickman

Traction: Get a Grip on Your Business by Gino Wickman

Rocket Fuel: The One Essential Combination That Will Get You More of What You Want from Your Business by Gino Wickman

Threefold Real Estate Investing

MB 264: Faith, Family & Multifamily Investing – With Lee Yoder

Mon, 03 May 2021 05:00:00 -0400

You take that promotion at work because you want to provide better for your family. But then you’re working MORE hours and seeing even LESS of the people you love. So, what if you could stop trading time for money?

What if you didn’t have to decide between realizing big dreams for your family and spending quality time with them?

Lee Yoder is the Founder and Managing Partner of Threefold Real Estate Investing, a multifamily investing firm based in Lebanon, Ohio. Lee was working as a physical therapist when he started investing in real estate, and by December of 2020, he quit his job as a physical therapist to be a full-time investor. Lee also hosts the Threefold Real Estate Investing Podcast, a show that focuses on leveraging multifamily investing to enjoy a stronger relationship with your family and a better walk with Christ.

On this episode of Apartment Building Investing, Lee joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to explain how his faith and family inspired him to pursue real estate. He describes how he gained confidence by analyzing hundreds of deals and attracted the help of a mentor to guide him through his first multifamily closing. Listen in for Lee’s take on why the Law of the First Deal works and learn how he is enjoying the flexibility to work when and where he wants as a full-time investor!

Key Takeaways

What inspired Lee to pursue real estate

Time freedom to be more present at home
Coworker offered copy of Rich Dad…

Why Lee took a 30% pay cut to make time for real estate

Faith and family are top priorities
Long-term plan to bring in passive income

How Lee talked his wife into ‘the real estate thing’

Time + believable behavior = trust
Forced him to slow down, think through choices

How Lee shifted into the multifamily space

Join local REIA to connect with investors
Learn to underwrite in Apartment Focus Group

How Lee attracted the support of a mentor

Coachable and willing to do the work
Lead with value to get foot in door

How Lee landed his first multifamily deal

Practice underwriting to gain confidence
Submitted offer on deal on LoopNet

Lee’s approach to his first multifamily deal

Jump and build parachute on way down
Lean on mentor to make it less dangerous

How Lee raised money for his first few multifamily deals

JV with friends and family on 16-, 8- and 10-unit
45-unit deal = first syndication

How Lee led a syndication without a track record

Reputation of integrity, success in flipping
Network with local investors in REIA

Lee’s take on why the Law of the First Deal works

Personal confidence in team, lending process
Brokers take you seriously

How Lee decided when to quit his full-time job

Replace W-2 income with rental income
Equity from sale of first 2 deals afforded runway

Lee’s top lesson learned in real estate

Build occupied units into rehab budget
Consider deferred maintenance costs

How Lee’s life is different now

Mid-week morning coffee date with wife
Flexibility to work where, when he wants

Connect with Lee Yoder

Threefold Real Estate Investing Podcast

Lee’s Free eBook: 5 Steps to Passive Income for the Full-Time Dad

Email info@threefoldrei.com

Resources

Access Michael’s Free Report—What’s the Best Investment: The Stock Market or Real Estate?

Purchase Michael’s Syndicated Deal Analyzer

Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

MB 263: The Curious Law of the First Deal + Why Get Certified

Mon, 26 Apr 2021 05:00:00 -0400

It’s overwhelming to think through how many doors you need to quit your job with real estate. But what if I told you that all you really have to do is get one multifamily deal under your belt?

Over and over again, I’ve observed that once an investor closes on their first deal, they achieve financial freedom very quickly—and with little effort. So, how does that work?

On this episode of Apartment Building Investing, I explain the curious Law of the First Deal, describing how your first deal triggers opportunities for second and third deals in rapid, automatic succession. I share my idea of a Time Freedom Clock, discussing the typical timeline for quitting your job with multifamily. Listen in to understand why the Law of the First Deal works and learn how our new Deal Maker Certification gets you ‘deal ready’ in just 90 days!

Key Takeaways

The phenomenon around the Law of the First Deal

1st deal hardest to get and takes average of 12 months
2nd and 3rd deals follow in rapid, automatic succession

The idea around my Time to Freedom Clock

Starts when you DECIDE to get started with multifamily
2 to 3 years away from quitting job with real estate

Why the Law of the First Deal works

Start attracting brokers
Become money magnet
Expand comfort zone

How our new Deal Maker Certification gets you ‘deal ready’

Learn to find deals, raise money and build team
90 days of daily tasks put new skills into action
Provides support with Deal Maker Mastermind

Resources

Explore Michael’s Deal Maker Certification Training

Download Michael’s Deal Maker Blueprint

Join the Deal Maker’s Mastermind

Financial Freedom Stories

First Deal Stories

The Deal Maker Certification on Apartment Building Investing EP262

Download Michael’s Deal Maker Blueprint

MB 262: The Deal Maker Certification for Multifamily Syndicators

Mon, 19 Apr 2021 05:00:00 -0400

What if you could run a successful multifamily syndication business with other people’s money? And what if you could do it with no prior experience and achieve financial freedom in one to three years?

Here at the Michael Blank organization, we’ve helped 130-plus new investors do their first deal, using a step-by-step process we call the Deal Maker Blueprint.

On this solo episode of Apartment Building Investing, I walk you through the 8-step system to achieve financial freedom with multifamily syndications, explaining why it’s crucial to map your vision and connect with a network of likeminded peers early in your journey.

I describe how to get the skill set you need to speak to brokers and investors (in just 30 days!) and then work the system, analyzing deals and building your pipeline until you close your first deal. Listen in for insight on scaling a syndication business and learn how financial freedom leads to a life of significance!

Key Takeaways

How I respond to the common objections re: multifamily

You don’t need real estate experience
You don’t need any of your own money
Just focus on getting your first deal

The Deal Maker Blueprint Step #1—Map Your Vision

Calculate your freedom number
Develop AM routine (affirmations, visualization)

The Deal Maker Blueprint Step #2—Get Connected

Join support network, e.g.: mastermind
Recruit advisor to hold you accountable

The Deal Maker Blueprint Step #3—Get the Skills

Clarify size and location of first deal
Analyze 5 deals and create sample deal package
Recruit lender and property manager to team

The Deal Maker Blueprint Step #4—Work the System

Analyze deals
Talk to potential investors

The Deal Maker Blueprint Step #5—Build Your Pipeline

Stay committed to activity vs. outcome
Stick with it as long as it takes

The Deal Maker Blueprint Step #6—Close the Deal

Submit LOI and negotiate offer
Due diligence, secure financing and raise money

The Deal Maker Blueprint Step #7—Grow and Scale

Law of First Deal attracts more deals, investors
Build platform to market syndication business

The Deal Maker Blueprint Step #8—Make a Difference

Financial freedom unlocks your true purpose
Life of significance = help other people

Resources

Join the Deal Maker’s Mastermind

Explore Michael’s Deal Maker Certification Training

Watch the Replay of Michael’s Platform Builders Masterclass

Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

REIA

Mint

Financial Peace University

Affirmations on Apartment Building Investing EP247

The Miracle Morning: The Not-So Obvious Secret Guaranteed to Transform Your Life (Before 8AM) by Hal Elrod

The Miracle Equation: The Two Decisions That Move Your Biggest Goals from Possible, to Probable, to Inevitable by Hal Elrod

The (6-Minute) Miracle Morning

Building a Platform on Apartment Building Investing EP237

The Real Estate InvestHER

MB 261: A Community of Women Real Estate InvestHERs– With Elizabeth Faircloth

Mon, 12 Apr 2021 05:00:00 -0400

If you can see it, you can be it. And as more female multifamily investors speak up about what they are doing, it gives other women permission to pursue real estate too. To that end, Elizabeth Faircloth is creating a community where women investors can get support the way they need it.

Elizabeth is the Cofounder of the DeRosa Group, a multifamily investing firm on a mission to transform lives through real estate. She and her husband Matt manage a portfolio of 1,000 units worth $60M up and down the east coast. Liz is also the Co-creator of The Real Estate InvestHER, a community that empowers women real estate investors to live a financially free and balanced life.

On this episode of Apartment Building Investing, Liz joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to offer advice for couples on aligning their goals early on. She explains how to delineate roles in a real estate business partnership and why building community is so important. Listen in for Liz’s insight on increasing the number of women investors and learn how she features female role models through The Real Estate InvestHER platform.

Key Takeaways

How Liz got into real estate

Read Rich Dad… and introduced husband to idea
Invested in first duplex together 15 years ago

Liz’s advice for couples on aligning your goals

Have conversations about what you value
Attend personal growth weekends together

How to delineate roles in a business partnership

Consider individual skills and experience
Factor in passion and personality

Why it didn’t work the first time Liz left her W-2 for real estate

Market crashed and didn’t delineate roles correctly
Too many different strategies (lack of focus)

What inspired The Real Estate InvestHER community

Partnership with Andresa on deals, mastermind
Create safe space to support other women

How Liz scaled her community to 40 Meetup groups

Use Dan Hanford model, Meetup Pro account
Partner set up portal with agendas and scripts

Why building community is so important to Liz

Research on women (longevity, financial literacy)
Passion around empowering women to invest

Liz’s insight on the small number of women investors

Societal conditioning to fly under radar
Must highlight journeys, lift each other up

Liz’s role with the DeRosa Group

Assemble team, lead STR acquisitions
Oversee investor relations

Liz’s advice for aspiring multifamily investors

No overnight success, takes time and energy
Stay the course and don’t give up

Connect with Elizabeth Faircloth

DeRosa Group

DeRosa Group on YouTube

The Real Estate InvestHER Podcast

The Real Estate InvestHER Community on Facebook

Resources

Learn More About Deal Maker Live

The Only Woman in the Room: Knowledge and Inspiration from 20 Women Real Estate Investors compiled by Ashley L. Wilson

Elizabeth on BiggerPockets EP203

REIA

Awaken the Giant Within: How to Take Immediate Control of Your Mental, Emotional, Physical and Financial Destiny by Tony Robbins

CASHFLOW Game

Matt Faircloth on BiggerPockets

Adventurous Real Estate Investors

MB 260: Multifamily Networking from Anywhere in the World – With Suzy Sevier & Michael Barnhart

Mon, 05 Apr 2021 05:00:00 -0400

So, you want to be a multifamily investor, but… You’ve never done a deal before. You don’t feel comfortable approaching potential partners. The pandemic has shut down all of the usual networking events. And you live six time zones ahead of the market where you’d like to invest.

But what if all of these challenges are really just opportunities to grow?

Suzy Sevier and Michael Barnhart are the husband-and-wife team behind Adventurous Real Estate Investors, a multifamily firm dedicated to helping avid travelers and adventure seekers create passive income and time freedom through apartment building investing. Suzy and Michael got interested in real estate during the lockdown, and in nine months, they have attended 10 virtual events, booked 600 networking calls, put together an experienced team and built a portfolio of 88 units—without leaving their home in the UK!

On this episode of Apartment Building Investing, Suzy and Michael join cohost Garrett Lynch and me to share their genius system for turning virtual events into networking opportunities and following up with the people they meet. They explain why they built a thought leadership platform right away and describe what kind of educational content they create. Listen in for insight on how Suzy and Michael turn roadblocks into opportunities, making the best of the situation they’re in to make their dream of financial freedom a reality!

Key Takeaways

How Suzy & Michael got interested in real estate

Read Multiple Streams of Income during lockdown
Took advantage of time off to network

How to turn virtual events into networking opportunities

Take screenshot and follow up on LinkedIn
Hop on calls and track potential partners

How Suzy & Michael found virtual real estate events

Ask contacts about upcoming or favorite events
Intentional search through social media

Suzy & Michael’s system for following up with contacts

Ask about goals, send personalized follow-up email
Guide to online thought leadership platform

What kind of educational content Suzy & Michael create

Blog on mindset, market trends and investing
Promote on social and send monthly email

When Suzy & Michael found the time for investing

Work until 6pm UK time and then start networking
20+ calls/week = 600 calls in last 9 months

The team of 6 Suzy & Michael created from networking

Partner to serve as boots on the ground in US
Capital raiser, KP and experienced syndicator

How Suzy & Michael got past their fears of networking

Remember that everyone starts in same place
Ask to host meetings for W-2 job as practice

What it’s like for Suzy & Michael to work together

Stepped on each other’s toes at first
Things improved after clearly defining roles

Why Suzy & Michael focused on content right away

Didn’t have deal, must prove selves different way
Mimic successful investors they aspire to be

Suzy & Michael’s advice for aspiring multifamily investors

Clearly define goals, get 1% better every day
Devote time to ALL aspects of business

Connect with Suzy Sevier & Michael Barnhart

Michael & Suzy’s Free Checklist

Resources

Partner with Michael Through the Deal Desk

Explore Michael’s Platform Builders Framework

Learn More About Deal Maker Live

Multiple Streams of Income: How to Generate a Lifetime of Unlimited Wealth! by Robert G. Allen

MB 259: Break Out of Corporate America with Multifamily – With Jenny Gou & Steven Louie

Mon, 29 Mar 2021 05:00:00 -0400

When you have a high-paying corporate job, it can be tough to walk away. But if time freedom is a priority for you, and you’re willing to take action, you absolutely CAN break out of the rat race and replace your W-2 income with multifamily real estate.

Jenny Gou and Steven Louie are the Cofounders of Vertical Street Ventures, a multifamily investment firm dedicated to helping people achieve financial freedom through passive investing in real estate. Steve is an experienced multifamily investor with a portfolio of 2,500-plus units, and he recently quit his corporate job to focus on real estate full time. Jenny left the rat race early in 2020 with a portfolio of single-family homes, and since then, she has gone from zero to 800 multifamily units.

On this episode of Apartment Building Investing, Jenny and Steve join me to discuss how they broke out of corporate America, describing the mindset of action and focus on family that drove their decision to walk away. They explain how their respective backgrounds in sales benefit their real estate business, sharing how it gives them a competitive edge in sourcing opportunities. Listen in for insight on the different roles on a multifamily team and learn how to achieve scale by partnering with other investors.

Key Takeaways

How Steve & Jenny met and became partners

Steve met Jenny’s husband at local meetup
Similar values, shared background in sales

What made Steve a good mentor for Jenny

Track record of success in multifamily
Allowed to sit in on meetings

Why Steve agreed to partner with Jenny

Needed support on operations side
Respects Jenny’s ability to assess people

What appeals to Jenny about multifamily operations

Learn by doing to accelerate growth
Used to leading teams, managing projects

How Jenny benefits from being a full-time investor

Opportunity to learn quickly
Able to blow past goals

The roles on a multifamily real estate team

Acquisitions or business development
Asset management (execute business plan)
Underwriting
Investor relations

Why Steve & Jenny decided to partner NOW

Quit rat race to prioritize family
Scale portfolio to replace income

What inspired Steve to leave a good corporate gig

Mindset of action, right mentors
Tax advantages of real estate

How a sales background helps multifamily investors

Understand importance of relationships
Competitive edge in sourcing opportunities

What Steve & Jenny would tell their younger selves

House hack rather than buy first house
Don’t have to be landlord to be investor

Connect with Steven Louie & Jenny Gou

Vertical Street Ventures

Steven on LinkedIn

Jenny on LinkedIn

Resources

Explore Michael’s Platform Builders Framework

Feedspot’s Top 40 Apartment Investing Podcasts

Rich Dad Poor Dad: What the Rich Teach Their Kids About Money That the Poor and Middle Class Do Not by Robert T. Kiyosaki

CASHFLOW Quadrant: Rich Dad’s Guide to Financial Freedom by Robert T. Kiyosaki

Download the Giftology System

MB 258: The Gifting System That Generates a 10X Return – With John Ruhlin

Mon, 22 Mar 2021 05:00:00 -0400

Without the high-net-worth individuals who put money in our deals, we wouldn’t have a syndication business. And yet, most of us are terrible at showing our appreciation to the passive investors we work with. When a deal goes through, we send them a mug or hat with our logo on it and call it a day. But does that reflect what the relationship is actually worth to us? Is there a better way to do gifting?

John Ruhlin is the Cofounder of Giftology Group, a strategic gifting consultancy that helps sales leaders, business owners and executives unlock loyalty and turn clients into raving fans. He founded Giftology Group in college to market Cutco Cutlery as a high-end corporate gift to companies of all sizes, and today, John is the #1 distributor in Cutco’s 60-year history. John is also a sought-after keynote speaker and author of Giftology: The Art and Science of Using Gifts to Cut Through the Noise, Increase Referrals, and Strengthen Retention.

On this episode of Apartment Building Investing, John joins cohost Garrett Lynch to explain how he came to dominate the Cutco leaderboard using gifting to build relationships. He introduces us to the giftology system, describing how he leverages generosity to turn his best clients into salespeople and raving fans. Listen in for John’s insight on how much to allocate for gift-giving and learn how YOU can get a 10X return by investing in the people who make your business profitable.

Key Takeaways

How John came to dominate the Cutco leaderboard

Learned relationship-building from mentor Paul
Sent gifts to land meetings with big-time CEOs

John’s insight on the value of relationship-building

Make decisions emotionally, justify with logic
Gifting = mechanism for generating emotion

John’s concept of a return on relationship

Initial $7K investment in gift to Cameron Herold
$25K over 10 years = 50X return on relationship

The key ingredients of John’s giftology system

Include handwritten note, name family members
Personalize gift and be intentional about timing

What makes John’s giftology system work

Generates like, trust and keeps top-of-mind
People crave human-to-human relationship

How much a business should allocate toward gift-giving

Reinvest 5% to 15% of net profits in relationships
Invest in people already work with at some level

Why giftology requires a long-term commitment

Genuine generosity vs. manipulation tactic
Turn best clients into salespeople

John’s top examples of the benefits of giftology

Invited to appear on Gary Vaynerchuk show
107% increase in referrals for John Bowen

Connect with John Ruhlin

Giftology Group

Email john@giftologygroup.com

Resources

Giftology: The Art and Science of Using Gifts to Cut Through the Noise, Increase Referrals, and Strengthen Retention by John Ruhlin

Jab, Jab, Jab, Right Hook: How to Tell Your Story in a Noisy Social World by Gary Vaynerchuk

John on Marketing for the Now with Gary Vaynerchuk

Artifact Mug

The 5 Love Languages

Young Presidents’ Organization

MB 257: Achieve Financial Freedom Before You Turn 21– With Cody Davis

Mon, 15 Mar 2021 05:00:00 -0400

There’s a lot of pressure on high school grads to go to college. Without a degree, the story goes, we can’t earn good money. But Cody Davis realized he didn’t need earned income if he could make passive income with real estate. And he didn’t let little things like being 19 years old and having no money or experience get in his way.

Cody is a broker with Blackwell Real Estate in Tacoma, Washington, and multifamily investor with a portfolio of 24 units. And he just turned 21. Cody dropped out of college to get his real estate license just two years ago, and since then, he’s closed on two 12-unit deals—without using any of his own money!

On this episode of Apartment Building Investing, Cody joins me to explain how he overcame the pressure to go to college and what inspired his mentor to take Cody on. He shares his unique approach to cold calling, discussing why sellers take him seriously despite his youth and how he’s building the skill of raising money. Listen in to understand how Cody used seller financing to do his first two deals and find out how he achieved financial freedom before he was old enough to buy a drink.

Key Takeaways

How Cody got interested in real estate

Family friend gifted Rich Dad Poor Dad
Make good money without college

How Cody overcame the pressure to fit in with friends

Don’t need degree if earning passive income
Partying = unnecessary distraction

How Cody found a mentor in Robert Slattery

DM re: real estate post on Facebook
All-in and willing to work for free

What Cody would have done without a mentor

Plan to house hack duplex
Work multiple jobs to qualify for loan

Why Cody is willing to broker deals for others

Didn’t qualify with banks early on (cash poor)
Learn from investors and their peer group

How Cody overcame the fear of cold calling

Predict worst-case scenarios
Gets easier with repetition

Cody’s first $1.1M 12-unit seller financing deal

Raise 10% down and partner with mentor
30-year mortgage with no balloon

Why sellers take Cody seriously despite his age

Phone conversation before meet in person
Age irrelevant if know how to negotiate

Cody’s second $680K 12-unit seller financing deal

Value-add opportunity (off-market)
Promissory note for $120K down
$2K/month cashflow from day one

Cody’s experience with the Law of the First Deal

Earned credibility with investors
Build skill to raise equity for others in office

How sellers benefit from seller financing

Splits up tax liability over number of years
Income without headache of management

Cody’s advice for aspiring multifamily investors

Get good at numbers, learn Excel
Show how deal is win-win for everyone

Connect with Cody Davis

Cody on Instagram

Email cody@blackwellre.com

Resources

Rich Dad Poor Dad: What the Rich Teach Their Kids About Money That the Poor and Middle Class Do Not by Robert T. Kiyosaki

CASHFLOW Board Game

The 4-Hour Workweek: Escape 9-5, Live Anywhere, and Join the New Rich by Timothy Ferriss

Be Obsessed or Be Average by Grant Cardone

Robert Slattery at Blackwell Real Estate

BiggerPockets Podcast

Gino Wickman on Apartment Building Investing EP243

The No Money Down Academy

MB 256: Find Your WHY, Find a Way to Invest in Real Estate – With Sadhana Sabharwal

Mon, 08 Mar 2021 06:00:00 -0400

When your WHY is big enough, you find a way. It doesn’t matter that you’re brand new to real estate investing. It doesn’t matter that you don’t have a college degree. And it doesn’t matter that you don’t have any money.

Sadhana Sabharwal is the real estate investor and coach behind Single Mom Millionaire and The No Money Down Academy training course. Sadhana was a recently-divorced, single mother of three boys when she got into real estate, and in four years, she built a portfolio of 46 doors. Sadhana’s focus is on buying, renovating and holding properties for positive cashflow, and she specializes in creative financing strategies that leverage other people’s money to buy real estate.

On this episode of Apartment Building Investing, Sadhana joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to explain how a painful divorce inspired her real estate investing journey. She shares her approach to creative financing, describing how she funds deals with seller financing and why networking was so valuable in helping her learn the business. Listen in for insight on finding your WHY and learn how Sadhana’s positive mindset influences her success!

Key Takeaways

How Sadhana’s real estate investing journey began

Husband left her for another woman
Needed way to support three boys

How Sadhana got interested in real estate investing

Work as law clerk, introduced to investor
Invited to join small real estate club

How Sadhana funded her first deals with no money

Open line of credit against house
Home Depot card for renovations

Sadhana’s initial plan for real estate investing

Find ways to buy without using own money
Renovate, refinance and repeat process

How Sadhana overcame being female and a minority

Joint venture with experienced investor
Build trust with consistent networking

Sadhana’s advice on getting started with real estate

Make use of free resources (Google, YouTube)
Invest in real estate investing courses
Ask questions at networking events

Sadhana’s favorite creative financing techniques

BRRRR strategy
Seller financing

How Sadhana got over the fear of asking for help

Remember your WHY
No choice but to figure it out

What needs to happen to have more women investors

Give themselves more credit
Role models and strong WHY

The top lessons Sadhana learned from her divorce

Don’t make your life miserable making his hell
Being happy and grateful is your choice

Connect with Sadhana Sabharwal

Single Mom Millionaire

Resources

What’s the Best Investment: The Stock Market or Real Estate?

MB 255: Opportunities in Oil for Passive Investors – With Bob Burr

Mon, 01 Mar 2021 06:00:00 -0400

As a passive investors, we understand the importance of building a diverse portfolio. And while multifamily is the best investment on the planet, it doesn’t hurt to explore our options, especially when BIG opportunities present themselves. So, what are the opportunities in oil right now? And how do we choose a project that is likely to succeed?

Bob Burr is the driving force behind Burrite, an investment firm that focuses on the acquisition and consolidation of oil and gas properties. A 47-year veteran of oil and energy finance, Bob is dedicated to helping the industry bounce back from the COVID crisis by providing the bridge capital necessary to weather the current economic storm. Bob is currently raising money for the BR Dome property, a project that involves recompleting 247 existing wells with room for 200 more.

On this episode of Apartment Building Investing, Bob joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to explain how he set himself up for buying opportunities when oil prices dropped and share the tax advantages of investing in oil. He walks us through the parallels between multifamily and oil, discussing the importance of putting together an experienced team that can identify and operate value-add projects. Listen in for Bob’s insight on why a passive investor should consider adding oil to their portfolio (even in the Biden era) and find out how YOU can get Bob’s Q&A video by shooting an email to admin@burrite.com.

Key Takeaways

Bob’s extensive background in the oil business

Started with brother in 1973
Funding projects through syndication

How Bob set himself up for buying opportunities in COVID

People leave business as price of oil went negative
Buy cashflowing wells and wait for cycle to go up

Bob’s BR Dome project in Houston

247 existing wells with room for 200 more
Note offering with interest rate of 10% to 18%

What Bob does to attract and maintain a strong team

Take care of people in loving business culture
Make it rule to thank team every day

The lessons Bob has learned through many market cycles

Maintain integrity in relationship with partners
Weather storm, make $ when cycle comes back

Bob’s insight on buying undervalued assets

Pick cashflowing wells not being run efficiently
Reduce lifting cost to $3.50/barrel

How it works to invest in an oil project

Operator leases mineral rights from landowner
Operator and investors get 75% of net revenue

Why Bob is optimistic about oil in the Biden administration

Shutdown of fracking doesn’t impact his business
Still make good money at oil price of $25/barrel

The parallels between investing in oil and real estate

Make money by adding value with good operator
Tax advantages (write-off up to 90% passive loss)

Why a passive investor should add oil to their portfolio

65% shot at making well from good prospect
BR Dome = 90% shot (cherry pick best spots)

How to learn more about investing in Bob’s oil projects

Email admin@burrite.com
Request Q&A video

Connect with Bob Burr

Burrite

Email admin@burrite.com for a link to Bob’s Q&A Video

Resources

Bob’s BR Dome Project

Brad Simmons at Burrite

Justin Burr at Burrite

MB 254: A Hands-On Approach to Asset Management – With Daniel Simpson

Mon, 22 Feb 2021 06:00:00 -0400

In real estate school, they teach you that the money is made when you buy. But that just isn’t true for apartment buildings. Yes, you have to buy right. But in the multifamily space, the money is made in the execution of your plan to increase revenue and reduce expenses. And the asset manager is responsible for making sure that happens.

Daniel Simpson serves as Asset Manager at Nighthawk Equity, the investing arm of The Michael Blank organization. He has nearly 30 years of experience in multifamily, residential and commercial property management, developing an expertise in strategic business forecasting, budget allocation, complex data analysis and property financials. Daniel has an impressive track record of acquiring, renovating and repositioning C-class value-add properties in as little as 18 months.

On this episode of Apartment Building Investing, Daniel joins me to share his hands-on approach to asset management, describing what he does on his monthly site visits and how he helps property managers optimize revenue and reduce expenses. He walks us through the metrics he uses to identify property management issues and explains why all problems come down to people. Listen in for Daniel’s insight on the limited role property managers should play in construction projects and learn when you should consider hiring a full-time asset manager!

Key Takeaways

Daniel’s insight on the fundamentals of asset management

Ensure investors’ goals met, returns on target
Provide guidance to property managers

How often Daniel meets with property managers

Speak with regional manager once/week minimum
Unannounced visit to site managers once/month

When to take a hands-on approach with property managers

High turnover rate
Higher than normal vacancy rate
Lack of success in leasing units
Collection issues
Move-outs not entered timely

Daniel’s take on why all problems come down to people

Tenants rent from STAFF vs. apartment itself
Asset manager’s job = find breakdown in system

What metrics Daniel watches closely as an asset manager

Consistency in NOI
Occupancy (physical and economic)
Delinquency
Live PNL
Closing ratio

How to identify problems with property management

Look at comps and communicate that with staff
Secret shops to evaluate leasing staff’s performance

Daniel’s process for optimizing a multifamily business

Start with maximizing revenue (add $5 to $10/unit)
Minimize expenses next, reevaluate contracts

How Daniel thinks about managing expenses

Ask questions about potential overspending
Audit line items to keep property managers honest

What Daniel does on his monthly site visits to a property

Walk vacant units, talk with property manager
Visit with leasing agents and maintenance staff
Verify that move-in files match what’s in system

Why property managers should not handle construction

Distraction from filling units and collecting rent
Better to hire GC or specialist (local or in-house)

The role a property manager should play in construction

Go to early meetings, input on scope and timeline
Hand GC keys needed to carry out project

What an average syndicator can do if they can’t afford a GC

Use construction manager (part of management co)
Build 5% in budget for specialist to oversee project

When it’s time to hire an asset manager for your business

Depends on skill set of investors in joint venture
As soon as you can afford it

Connect with Daniel Simpson

Nighthawk Equity

Email daniel@nighthawkequity.com

Resources

Get Rich Education Podcast

MB 253: Don’t Follow Money, Make Money Follow You – With Keith Weinhold

Mon, 15 Feb 2021 06:00:00 -0400

Yes, work ethic and taking action are key in becoming a successful real estate investor. But mindset is even more important. Before you can start working toward the life you want, you have to conquer middleclass thinking. You have to stop following the money and start making money follow YOU.

Keith Weinhold is the real estate educator, entrepreneur and investor behind Get Rich Education, a platform designed to help people achieve financial freedom through real estate investing. An active member of the Forbes Real Estate Council, Keith is known for his expertise around buy-and-hold real estate, and he transacts 100-plus properties per year. Keith is also a bestselling author and host of the wildly popular Get Rich Education Podcast, a show with more than 3M downloads in 188 countries.

On this episode of Apartment Building Investing, Keith joins cohost Garrett Lynch and I to explain why mindset is crucial in becoming a successful real estate investor, describing how to overcome middleclass thinking and make other people’s money work for you. He weighs in on why delayed gratification is overrated, challenging us to cultivate an abundance mentality and start living the life we want right now. Listen in for Keith’s insight on the ‘shadow demand’ in the housing market and learn why inflation is a good thing for YOU as a multifamily investor.

Key Takeaways

Why mindset is crucial in becoming a successful real estate investor

Don’t live below means but EXPAND means
Make outsized decisions to live outsized life

What inspired Keith to move to Alaska and invest in real estate

Go after what you want or you’ll never have it
Rather than following money, make money follow you

Why so many people settle and never take action to invest

Peer group reinforces doing safe thing
‘To change yourself, change your five’

The first steps to improving your quality of life with real estate

Get honest about what you really want
Live beneath means vs. live well

The problem Keith sees with middle class thinking

Work for money and have little left to invest
Make money work for you (vs. other people’s money)

How real estate makes other people’s money work for you

Tenant’s money for income
Bank’s money for leverage
Government money at scale

Why more people aren’t investing in real estate over Wall Street

Best product but worst marketing
Lack of financial education

Keith’s mission through the Get Rich Education platform

Financial freedom through real estate
Live better and give better (abundance mindset)

Why Keith thinks delayed gratification is overrated

Subpar quality of life until old enough to retire
401(k) = life deferral plan

Why the property is the 4th most important thing in investing

Decide what want real estate to do for you FIRST
Carefully consider market and team of professionals

Keith’s short-term outlook on the real estate market

Strict criteria to qualify for eviction moratoriums
95%+ rent collections

Keith’s insight on shadow demand in the real estate market

More household formation as economy recovers
Demand increase with population growth, immigration

The 3 ways inflation is good for real estate investors

Price inflation
Debt debasement
Cashflow enhancement

Connect with Keith Weinhold

Get Rich Education

Resources

Keith on Apartment Building Investing EP034

Rich Dad

Jim Rohn

Ted Benna on Get Rich Education EP197

Pew Research Statistics on Young Adults Living with Parents

US Bureau of Labor Statistics Consumer Price Index

Keith’s Inflation Triple Crown Video

Keith’s Free eBook 7 Money Myths That Are Killing Your Wealth Potential

MB 252: Want to Raise Capital? Focus on Investor Relations! – With David Meilan

Mon, 08 Feb 2021 06:00:00 -0400

Raising capital is at the heart of multifamily syndication. But how do you build relationships with prospective investors and make them feel comfortable enough to trust you with their hard-earned money?

David Meilan is the Director of Investor Relations at Nighthawk Equity, the investing arm of The Michael Blank organization. He has worked in the multifamily space since 2018, raising over $100M in investor capital for a range of commercial syndications. David excels at maintaining relationships with investors, and he is committed to helping people achieve financial freedom through passive investing in multifamily real estate.

On this episode of Apartment Building Investing, David joins me to discuss the importance of building relationships with investors and explain what he is doing to turn prospects into raving fans of Nighthawk Equity. He walks us through the steps of raising capital for a deal, describing how we make the process easy for investors and stay in communication after close. Listen in for David’s insight on producing content for potential investors and learn how to leverage strong investor relations to raise money for YOUR next multifamily deal!

Key Takeaways

How to turn prospective investors into raving fans

Provide great multifamily investment opportunities
Communicate early and often, be responsive
Build trust with educational content (guide through process)

Why it’s important to build a relationship with investors

One-on-one call to get to know investors and build trust
Tailor opportunities to investor profile and preferences

How David tracks his conversations with investors

Keep notes during call re: what investor is looking for
Document on spreadsheet and in ActiveCampaign

David’s insight on the process of producing content for investors

Ultimate goal of helping investors on financial journey
Batch videos based on FAQs, outsource production

How Nighthawk goes above and beyond on investor relations

Communicate re: upcoming opportunities
Inform how property is performing (update webinars)

What Nighthawk is doing to recognize strategic investors

Build out investor club tiers
Reward those who put large amounts of capital in deal

What a Nighthawk Equity capital raise campaign looks like

Email investors with preliminary info re: opportunity
Webinar to talk about deal in depth (2 weeks later)
Fill out paperwork, e.g.: PPM and company agreement
Receive funding instructions and follow through

How Nighthawk Equity streamlines the investing process

Managed through online investor portal
Automates workflow (easy for investors + syndicator)

How David maintains investor relations once a deal closes

3 monthly follow-up investor update webinars
Monthly email update for duration of investment
Respond to investor questions within 24 hours

David’s advice for syndicators around raising capital

Provide investors with sense of comfort
Set self apart by making them feel safe

Connect with David Meilan

Nighthawk Equity

David on LinkedIn

Resources

Download Michael’s Free Report—What’s the Best Investment: The Stock Market or Real Estate?

MB 251: How True Success Is Built On Relationships – With Pat Hiban

Mon, 01 Feb 2021 06:00:00 -0400

They say that your network is your net worth. And Pat Hiban has proven this to be true over and over again. Making connections through networking and mastermind groups, he has established multiple business partnerships and created more than 30 passive income streams! So, how can we leverage what Pat has learned about building relationships to reach the next level of success in our own lives?

Pat is the Cofounder of GoBundance, a business mastermind for healthy, wealthy, generous men who want to lead EPIC lives. A former top-performing real estate agent, Pat was the #1 RE/MAX agent in the world in 2004 and earned the same honor with Keller Williams in 2006, selling more than 4,000 homes worth over one billion dollars in the course of his career. Pat is also the former host of the Real Estate Rockstars Podcast and the author of 6 Steps to 7 Figures and Tribe of Millionaires.

On this episode of Apartment Building Investing, Pat joins cohost Garrett Lynch and I to discuss what inspired his initial goal to become a millionaire and share the key lessons from 6 Steps to 7 Figures. He explains how his definition of success has evolved to focus on relationships and describes the power of joining a mastermind community. Listen in for Pat’s insight around building on your successes and learn how networking with other high-performing entrepreneurs can take YOUR business to the next level!

Key Takeaways

What inspired Pat to become a millionaire

Boost to self-esteem
More money = less stress

How Pat’s definition of success has changed

Ego-driven to make money from 21 to 35
Relationships + time most valuable now

Pat’s key lesson from 6 Steps to 7 Figures

Build on successes (not from ground up)
Go deep in one area rather than wide

The key to Pat’s ongoing success

Naïve enough to keep moving forward
Believe in self and be coachable

Pat’s insight around the value of relationships

30+ opportunities from mastermind
One relationship away from next level

The idea of horizontal income

Things that pay you sideways
Multifamily, businesses, etc.

What Pat is investing in right now

Cryptocurrency (Bitcoin and Ethereum)
VC funds and private companies
Single- and multifamily real estate

Connect with Pat Hiban

Tribe of Millionaires

6 Steps to 7 Figures: A Real Estate Professional’s Guide to Building Wealth and Creating Your Own Destiny by Pat Hiban

Pat on LinkedIn

Resources

Tribe of Millionaires: What If One Choice Could Change Everything? by David Osborn and Pat Hiban

Real Estate Rockstars Podcast

David Osborn

Tim Rhode

We Study Billionaires

Real Vision Podcast

Drew at the Michael Blank Mentoring Program

MB 250: The Best of 2020 on Apartment Building Investing

Mon, 25 Jan 2021 06:00:00 -0400

We’ve always said that multifamily is recession-proof, and 2020 gave us a chance to prove it. While the stock market and other asset classes suffered in the pandemic, apartment buildings continue to provide steady cashflow and a safe place to keep our money growing for the long term. So, what can syndicators do to get this message to more people and build a successful real estate investing business?

On this episode, I’m sharing the Best of 2020 on the Apartment Building Investing Podcast, beginning with last year’s biggest news—the Coronavirus pandemic. We revisit Drew Kniffin’s thoughts on the risk COVID poses for passive investors, Drew Whitson’s take on why multifamily is still the strongest asset class in real estate, and Russell Gray’s insight on how to protect your wealth in a crisis.

We look back at my conversations with Pat Flynn and Amy Porterfield on marketing to investors online and my interview with Gino Wickman around what it takes to be a successful entrepreneur. Listen in for master deal maker Garrett Lynch’s insight on choosing the right market and get inspired by BiggerPockets VP Brandon Turner’s approach to achieving BIG things with tiny action.

Key Takeaways

How COVID is likely to impact passive investors in multifamily

Unless already run poorly, virus won’t bankrupt property
Much better option than stock market (30% paper loss)

Why multifamily is still the strongest asset class in real estate

Performs well through economic disruption
Office buildings, retail and medical suffered in COVID

What makes real estate a solid investment (even in a crisis)

Fits criteria of being both REAL and ESSENTIAL
Governments support housing, energy and healthcare

What to look for in a multifamily real estate market

Resources available to operate and steady dealflow
Population, job and overall economic growth

Who should consider building a thought leadership platform

EVERYONE can build personal brand online
Place to announce, connect and prove authority

Why an email list is more valuable than social media followers

Algorithms change, you don’t own social platforms
Email list = YOUR asset for growing relationships

How to choose the right lead magnet for your audience

IRRESISTIBLE piece of free content (trade for email addy)
What avatar needs to believe to do business with you

The eight critical mistakes most entrepreneurs make

Not having vision
Hiring wrong people
Not spending time with your people
Not knowing who customer is
Not charging enough
Not staying true to your core (shiny object syndrome)
Not knowing your numbers
Not crystalizing roles and responsibilities

The eight disciplines for increasing your chances of success

Clarify vision
Decide if you’re ‘partner person’
Bigger problem = more success
Get feedback early and often
First plan will not be final plan
Work hard (really hard)
Take criticism with grain of salt
See it every night

The two kinds of ‘partner people’ in entrepreneurship

Equal partners
Give equity but maintain controlling interest

Why it’s crucial to have a clear vision for your business

Know where you want to be and take next tiny step
Ask what’s cool and write as if you’re already there

Connect with Drew Kniffin

Drew at Nighthawk Equity

Drew on LinkedIn

Connect with Drew Whitson

Drew on LinkedIn

Connect with Russell Gray

The Real Estate Guys

Russell on LinkedIn

Connect with Garrett Lynch

Pat at Smart Passive Income

Garrett on LinkedIn

Connect with Pat Flynn

Pat’s Website

Connect with Amy Porterfield

Amy’s Website

Marketing Made Easy Podcast

Connect with Gino Wickman

Entrepreneurial Leap

Entrepreneurial Leap: Do You Have What It Takes to Become an Entrepreneur? by Gino Wickman

Connect with Brandon Turner

Open Door Capital

BiggerPockets Podcast

The Book on Rental Property Investing: How to Create Wealth with Intelligent Buy and Hold Real Estate Investing by Brandon Turner

Resources

Drew Kniffin on Apartment Building Investing EP208

Drew Whitson on Apartment Building Investing EP228

Russell Gray on Apartment Building Investing EP226

Garrett Lynch on Apartment Building Investing EP231

Pat Flynn on Apartment Building Investing EP210

Amy Porterfield on Apartment Building Investing EP212

Gino Wickman on Apartment Building Investing EP243

Brandon Turner on Apartment Building Investing EP221

Bryce Stewart on BiggerPockets Podcast EP276

Vivid Vision: A Remarkable Tool for Aligning Your Business Around a Shared Vision of the Future by Cameron Herold

Find Out More About Deal Maker Live

What’s the Best Investment: The Stock Market or Real Estate?

Email digital@themichaelblank.com

MB 249: Increase Your NOI Through Cell Tower Investing – With Hugh Odom

Mon, 18 Jan 2021 06:00:00 -0400

The most successful real estate investors find creative ways to increase their NOI either by adding amenities for residents or reducing expenses. But there is a new opportunity for property owners that you may not be aware of. What if you could earn more money by leasing out a portion of your building for a 5G cell phone tower?

Hugh Odom is the Founder and President of Vertical Consultants, a telecom consulting firm that has advised major corporations such as Walmart, McDonald’s and Disney, as well as government institutions like the Department of Veterans Affairs, the New York Housing Authority and the United States Postal Service. Hugh served as an attorney for AT&T for 11-plus years, and today, he leverages his expertise in the telecom industry to help real estate investors earn additional income through cell tower leases.

On this episode of Apartment Building Investing, Hugh joins cohost Garrett Lynch and I to explain why the cell tower industry is like oil 100 years ago, discussing what is driving the need for more cell towers and how lucrative a cell tower lease can be for investors. Hugh shares the do’s and don’ts of negotiating a cell tower lease, describing how it differs from a real estate transaction and what Hugh’s team does to help property owners with the process. Listen in to understand why cell tower investing is a safe bet for the long term and learn how YOU can take advantage of the opportunity to be a cell tower landlord!

Key Takeaways

Why the cell tower industry is like oil 100 years ago

Long-term agreements to lease land from property owners
Cell companies reach out if property in right location

What is driving the need for more cell towers

5G technology requires additional infrastructure
Densification makes service faster, more instantaneous
From 400K to 1.5M cell sites by 2025

The do’s and don’ts of negotiating a cell tower lease

Don’t treat as real estate transaction (e.g.: market rate)
Do determine value provider will get from space

How lucrative a cell tower lease agreement can be for investors

Typically increases value of property by $1M
Renegotiate contract as provider’s revenue from site goes up

How Vertical Consultants helps property owners

Level playing field (understand value you’re offering)
Source leases for large commercial property owners

How to take advantage of this opportunity in cell towers

Buy properties with existing towers or rights to cell towers
Bring experts in to renegotiate lease

How 5G towers differ visually from traditional cell towers

Traditional tower = 150 feet tall, up to 5K ft2
Traditional rooftop antenna up to 500 ft2
5G tower = 50 ft2 with small antenna box

The opportunity to become an operator of cell towers

Pay property owners in dead spots for right to lease
Buy for long-term cashflow or flip

Why cell tower investing is a safe bet for the long term

Similar to highway system (infrastructure, not technology)
Change out equipment as tech improves

Who Hugh serves through Vertical Consultants

Property owners with existing agreements
Owners who’ve been approached by cell company
Hotels, self-storage and shopping center developers

Connect with Hugh Odom

Vertical Consultants

Resources

Jeff’s Passive Investors Circle

MB 248: Grow Your Investor Base & Raise Millions in Days – With Jeff Anzalone

Mon, 11 Jan 2021 06:00:00 -0400

So, you’ve done a multifamily deal or two, and your friends and family are maxed out in the money department. You’re ready to take on bigger and bigger deals, but you’re struggling to raise capital. What is the best way to grow your investor base?

Dr. Jeff Anzalone is a full-time practicing periodontist and the creator of Debt-Free Doctor, a platform designed to help doctors and other high-income professionals generate passive income from real estate so they can STOP trading time for money. Jeff started his blog to share how he paid off $300K in student loan debt. But once he was debt-free, Jeff shifted his focus to investing and acquiring streams of passive income through multifamily syndications. Today, he is raising millions in days for real estate deals.

On this episode of Apartment Building Investing, Jeff joins cohost Patricia Sweeney and I to discuss how the Debt-Free Doctor has evolved, explaining how he creates content consistently and what he does to promote the platform and grow his investor base. Jeff walks us through the benefit of joining his Passive Investors Circle, describing how he gives doctors and other overworked professionals options for earning passive income. Listen in to understand how serving his audience inspires Jeff to keep going and learn how he raised $2.7M in five days for his latest multifamily deal!

Key Takeaways

What inspired Jeff’s interest in real estate investing

Wrist injury on ski trip inspired interest in passive income
Successful people had real estate, 3 to 9 income streams

Jeff’s first experience with real estate investing

Discovered crowdfunding with Realty Shares
Relied on website and lost $50K

How Jeff’s website has evolved over the years

Began as diary on getting out of student loan debt
Now educates high-income earners on real estate

How Jeff got into raising capital for real estate syndications

Sponsor reached out because of blog and podcasts
Started Passive Investor Circle (raised $2.7M for deal)

Who Jeff serves through Debt-Free Doctor

Doctors, other high-income earners (accredited investors)
Overworked professionals looking for options

What Jeff has done to grow his list

Site for physicians shared articles and boosted traffic
Capture addresses with Passive Investor Circle

The benefit of joining Jeff’s Passive Investor Circle

Free Passive Income Guide and series of emails
Learn about deals Jeff invests in, set up time to talk

How Jeff comes up with content ideas for his blog

Topics he reads/hears about online and on podcasts
Keyword research for subjects that will rank

How Jeff produces content consistently

Write between patients
Inspired by being able to serve, change lives

What’s next for Jeff and his real estate platform

Start podcast, speak at in-person events
Create own event or write book

Jeff’s advice for syndicators struggling to raise capital

Determine the ONE thing (grow investor base)
Delegate or don’t do anything that doesn’t do that

Jeff’s advice for aspiring platform builders

Invest in marketing platform, calculate ROI
Don’t reinvent wheel

Connect with Jeff Anzalone

Debt-Free Doctor

Jeff’s Free Passive Income Guide

Resources

The ONE Thing: The Surprisingly Simple Truth Behind Extraordinary Results by Gary Keller and Jay Papasan

Download Michael’s Affirmation for Multifamily Investors

MB 247: Achieve Your Investing Goals with Affirmations

Mon, 04 Jan 2021 06:00:00 -0400

Affirmations are a powerful tool in reaching our goals. They remind us why we do what we do, what we plan to achieve and the kind of person we want to become along the way.

So, what does it look like to create an affirmation specific to real estate investing? An affirmation that will keep you on track all year long and make success inevitable?

On this episode of Apartment Building Investing, I discuss the value of using affirmations to achieve financial freedom through multifamily real estate. I walk you through the process of constructing an affirmation the right way, describing the activities you can commit to as an aspiring syndicator and challenging you focus on those activities (rather than the outcome). Listen in for insight on taking tiny action toward your goals every day and learn how to build an affirmation that guarantees your success as a real estate investor!

Key Takeaways

Why you should use affirmations to achieve your goals

Creates clarity
Establishes your WHY
Commit to activity

How to construct an affirmation the right way

Commit to unwavering faith and extraordinary effort
Articulate WHY you’re working toward that goal
Set level of commitment with daily activities
Speak out enlightened entitlement (worthy of miracles)

The two activities aspiring syndicators can commit to

Analyzing deals
Talk with potential investors

Why you can’t get emotionally attached to the results

Give up when don’t achieve in certain time frame
Outcome = inevitable if do activity long enough

The secret to success in real estate investing

Commit to activity
Take tiny action every day

Resources

Year in Review on Apartment Building Investing EP244

The Miracle Equation: The Two Decisions that Move Your Biggest Goals from Possible, to Probable, to Inevitable by Hal Elrod

Michael’s 10-Minute Offer Technique

Michael’s 10-Minute Offer eBook

MB 246: An Others-Focused Approach to Resort Value-Adds – With Josh McCallen

Mon, 28 Dec 2020 06:00:00 -0400

No question, the hospitality industry is among the hardest hit by COVID-19. And yet, Josh McCallen is thriving. The distressed Renault Winery Resort he bought in December 2018 is sold out for 2021, and revenues are up 200% from last year. So, why is Josh doing well while others are struggling? Are there opportunities for investors in the hospitality space right now? And what can we multifamily syndicators learn from Josh’s others-focused approach to business?

Josh is the hospitality investment expert behind Accountable Equity, a firm specializing in resort value-add and turnaround projects, and VIVÂMEE Hospitality, the management company that operates those assets. In the past two decades, Josh has led over $100M in luxury residential and hospitality construction projects, growing the revenue of the resorts he manages by 10X in less than six years and increasing the appraised value of those properties by 70%.

On this episode of Apartment Building Investing, Josh joins cohost Garrett Lynch and I to share his journey as an entrepreneur and discuss how helping flippers during the boom evolved into the work he does now. He explains how his company’s focus on resorts (not hotels) has helped them thrive despite the pandemic, describing how his team’s expertise in sales drives the kind of distressed assets they buy. Listen in for insight on the opportunities available to investors in the hospitality space right now and learn how a service-based, ministry model helps Josh serve both his guests and investors well.

Key Takeaways

How Josh got his start as an entrepreneur

Sold cotton candy to classmates in grade school
Paper boy at 12 (collect pay from customers)

When Josh got into real estate

Bought duplex with wife in late 1990’s
Started helping flippers in 2006

What Josh does in real estate today

Runs hospitality development company
Acquire distressed resorts for rehab + repositioning

What differentiates VIVÂMEE as a management company

Start with core values (dignity of every person)
Loyalty and recurring business model

Why Josh is doing well despite the pandemic

Focus on resorts (multiple revenue streams)
Sell experience, i.e.: wedding at winery
Earn revenue now for 2021 and 2022 reservations
Room revenue = trailing indicator

What Josh looks for in a property

High volume of inbound calls for weddings
Older/tired owner losing money, just breaking even

What makes Josh a good operator

Experience of taking over for management collapse
Treat hospitality as ministry, make guests feel loved

How Josh’s others-focused model extends to his investors

Treat investors as guests
Apply hospitality to fundraising

How Josh structures a resort deal

Charge asset management fee
Zero split until investors fully repaid + preferences
50/50 split moving forward

Connect with Josh McCallen

Accountable Equity

Capital Hacking Podcast

Resources

VIVÂMEE Hospitality

Renault Winery Resort

MB 245: Bring in 1031 Exchange Investors with the DST – With Paul Moore

Mon, 21 Dec 2020 06:00:00 -0400

As syndicators, we’d love to work with 1031 exchange investors more often. But the rules make it really, really difficult! It means taking on co-owners (rather than passive investors) and big bucks in legal fees. What if there was an EASIER way to work with 1031 exchange investors? A way that allows them to invest passively in syndication deals, defer their taxes and earn a stable return?

Paul Moore is Managing Partner at Wellings Capital, a firm dedicated to helping high earners and high net worth individuals protect and grow their wealth through commercial real estate investing. A two-time Michigan Entrepreneur of the Year finalist, Paul has founded multiple investment and development companies and co-managed a successful multifamily development. He is the cohost of The Art of Investing and How to Lose Money and a regular contributor to both Fox Business and BiggerPockets.

On this episode of Apartment Building Investing, Paul joins cohost Drew Whitson and I to discuss the disadvantages of the 1031 exchange and explain what makes the strategy incompatible with syndications. He introduces us to the Delaware Statutory Trust (or DST), describing how it solves the problems associated with bringing in 1031 exchange investors and allows them to invest passively in multifamily deals. Listen in for Paul’s insight on what kind of investor is attracted to the DST and learn how YOU can use it to defer taxes and earn a long-term, stable return!

Key Takeaways

The disadvantages of the 1031 exchange for investors

Deadlines pressure to overpay/buy wrong asset
Difficult to find cash match, total price match
Requires co-ownership vs. passive investment

Why 1031 exchanges are incompatible with syndications

Tenancy in common agreement to keep control
High legal fees, syndicator doesn’t control capital

The fundamentals of the Delaware Statutory Trust

Management group acquires asset
Sells fractional shares to investors

The benefits of investing in a DST

Allows for passive investment
Match any amount of money
No debt in name
Extremely stabilized asset

The disadvantages of investing in a DST

Communicate with broker vs. syndicator
Broker gets high commission (6% to 9%)
Limited upside, very little appreciation

How Paul’s DST addresses the usual disadvantages

Invest direct = talk to syndicator
Don’t pay up-front commission
10% to 12% projected returns

How Paul is compensated as the operator of the DST

Property management fees
Acquisition and liquidation fees
Scrape (keep returns above 6%)

What kind of investors are attracted to the DST

1031 exchange investors
Capital gains, passive depreciation recapture

The limitations of the Delaware Statutory Trust

High legal fees for operators to set up
Limited upside (structured to be stable)
Illiquidity = can’t cash out early
Accredited investors only

Connect with Paul Moore

Wellings Capital

Paul on BiggerPockets

Resources

Starker v. United States

MB 244: 2020 Year in Review & 2021 Forecast

Mon, 14 Dec 2020 06:00:00 -0400

Despite the chaos and uncertainty of 2020, we have a lot to be grateful for here at The Michael Blank organization. We have helped 113 people do 128 deals for a total value of $321M. And 22 of our mentees have quit their jobs, thanks to the financial freedom that comes with multifamily real estate investing.

On this episode of Apartment Building Investing, I take the time to reflect on 2020, looking back on our key accomplishments in The Michael Blank organization and sharing our top lessons learned over the past 12 months. I discuss our theme for 2021 and explain what steps we’re taking to better serve our followers and turn them into raving fans. Listen in for insight on the multifamily market outlook for 2021 and learn how YOU can use our resources to achieve financial freedom and help us make a positive impact in the world!

Key Takeaways

Our key accomplishments for 2020 in The Michael Blank organization

Right team in place, key hires in marketing and tech
Pivot to take Deal Maker Live virtual
Hit 10K subscribers on YouTube channel
Launch Platform Builders program
High-profile guests on podcast (Pat Flynn, Amy Porterfield)
Raise $20M for 2 deals in last 4 months
Full-time asset manager, director of investor relations

Our top 3 lessons learned in 2020

Team is EVERYTHING
Stick to your underwriting
Be grateful every day for everything

Our plans for 2021 in The Michael Blank organization

Serve existing followers better and reach more deal makers
Update The Ultimate Guide to Apartment Investing
Host Deal Maker Live on livestream and in person
Launch new podcast around platform building
Rollout Nighthawk Investor Club to connect better

The disconnect between the headlines and our market experience

Real estate = local business (gateway cities vs. Sun Belt)
Rents flat but not decreasing in our target markets
People move south + west with freedom of remote work

My predictions around the market outlook for 2021

No radical changes to real estate tax law
Unemployment benefits will cover rent collection issues
Fed will keep interest rates low and flat
Continued demand for affordable multifamily housing
Drop in value of US dollar (real estate = inflation hedge)
Unprecedented buying opportunities in next 12 months

How you can help us make a positive impact in the world

Sponsor student through UCSS nonprofit
$25/month covers education and healthcare

Resources

Get Michael’s Ultimate Guide to Apartment Investing

Sponsor a Student with Uganda Counseling & Support Services

Get Your Priorities Straight on Apartment Building Investing EP230

Deal Maker Live

Platform Builders

Pat Flynn on Apartment Building Investing EP210

Amy Porterfield on Apartment Building Investing EP212

Entrepreneurial Leap: Do You Have What It Takes to Become an Entrepreneur? by Gino Wickman

MB 243: Taking the Entrepreneurial Leap – With Gino Wickman

Mon, 07 Dec 2020 06:00:00 -0400

Do you have what it takes to be an entrepreneur? If you’re in the early stages of building a multifamily syndication business, Gino Wickman wants to leverage his 30 years of experience to help you determine what kind of enterprise is right for you and accelerate your path to success.

Gino is the creator of the Entrepreneurial Operating System, the practical method for helping businesses achieve greatness used by 100K companies worldwide. He is also the bestselling author of Traction: Get a Grip on Your Business and Rocket Fuel: The One Essential Combination That Will Get You More of What You Want from Your Business, among many other groundbreaking books on entrepreneurship. Today, Gino is devoting his time and energy to Entrepreneurial Leap, a new book and online platform designed to help entrepreneurs-in-the-making find clarity and create a customized roadmap for their startup.

On this episode of Apartment Building Investing, Gino joins cohost Garrett Lynch and I to share the experience that inspired his work with entrepreneurs, explaining how he defines ‘true entrepreneurship’ and what characteristics successful business owners share. He walks us through the most common mistakes entrepreneurs make, offering advice on knowing what you want, hiring the right people and firing the wrong ones. Listen in for insight on whether or not you’re a ‘partner person’ and get Gino’s eight tips for increasing your chances of success as an aspiring entrepreneur.

Key Takeaways

What inspired Gino’s work with entrepreneurs

Turned around struggling family business at 25
Discovered knack for helping entrepreneurs

What makes EOS such a successful system

Simple and time tested on 50 clients over 5 years
Frees entrepreneur to take business to next level

Why Gino wrote his new book Entrepreneurial Leap

Help aspiring entrepreneurs build better startup
Teach what he needed most at start of journey

How Gino defines true entrepreneurship

Build business with lots of people (vs. freelance)
Only 4% of population has what it takes

The 6 essential traits of a true entrepreneur

Visionary
Passionate
Problem-solver
Driven
Risk-taker
Responsible

The 8 critical mistakes entrepreneurs make

Not having vision
Hiring wrong people
Not spending time with people
Not knowing customer
Not charging enough
Not staying true to core
Not knowing numbers
Not crystalizing roles/responsibilities

Gino’s advice on hiring the right people

Hire based on core values + skill set
Be slow to hire, quick to fire

The 8 disciplines for increasing your chances of success

Clarify vision
Decide if ‘partner person’
Bigger problem = more success
Get feedback early and often
First plan will not be final plan
Work hard (really hard)
Take criticism with grain of salt
See it every night

Gino’s insight on the two types of ‘partner people’

Equal partners
Give equity but maintain controlling interest

Connect with Gino Wickman

Entrepreneurial Leap

Resources

Traction: Get a Grip on Your Business by Gino Wickman

Entrepreneurial Operating System for Business

Rocket Fuel: The One Essential Combination That Will Get You More of What You Want from Your Business by Gino Wickman

Entrepreneurial Leap: Do You Have What It Takes to Become an Entrepreneur? by Gino Wickman

Gino’s Entrepreneur Assessment

Books by Napoleon Hill

Books by Dale Carnegie

Elevate Commercial Investment Group

MB 242: The Systems to Scale Your Syndication Business – With Jorge Abreu

Mon, 30 Nov 2020 06:00:00 -0400

What is the key to scaling a real estate investing business? Growing your investor database? Raising more and more capital for deals? Putting together and training a capable team? Yes, all of those things are absolutely necessary. And they all require that you build out systems. Systems that allow the business to run on its own.

Jorge Abreu is the Cofounder and CEO of Elevate Commercial Investment Group, a Dallas real estate firm focused on the acquisition of value-add multifamily assets. In his 15-year career, Jorge has flipped 200-plus houses, wholesaled another 100 properties and done $8M in ground-up construction. Since his introduction to multifamily four years ago, Jorge has built a portfolio of 1,700 units worth $125M.

On this episode of Apartment Building Investing, Jorge joins cohost Garrett Lynch and I to share the challenges of scaling a single family investing business and discuss what inspired his transition to apartment buildings. He weighs in on the value of networking (online and in-person) to forge new partnerships and build a solid team. Listen in for insight on building systems to grow your business and learn why Jorge recommends skipping single family and getting right into multifamily investing!

Key Takeaways

What inspired Jorge’s interest in real estate

Research of successful individuals
Entrepreneurial role models in family

The challenges of scaling a single family business

Difficult to find reliable contractor for flips
Creating systems to delegate work

How Jorge started over in Dallas after 2008

Network every day, go to every event
Build team and find partnerships

The value of finding a good partnership

Division of roles affords time freedom
One partner as visionary, one as executor

The benefits of multifamily investing

Build generational wealth
Branch out into other companies

How Jorge attracts and retains team members

Make sure everyone happy
Check in re: expectations

When to bring property management in house

Implement own systems (control)
More appropriate with scale

Why Jorge runs his own construction company

Helped scale single family business
Confident taking on any heavy lift

Jorge’s insight on raising capital for multifamily

Invest passively to get feel for business
Market to build database of investors

What Jorge does to market his syndications

Build platform, daily posts on social
Funnel with email marketing follow up

How Jorge manages his investor lists

Speak to new investors asap
Strategic messaging to match goals

What’s next for Jorge and the Elevate team

Explore new partnerships
Fine tune system for evaluating deals

What Jorge would tell his younger self

Build out systems early on
Go straight to large multifamily

Connect with Jorge Abreu

Email jorge@elevatecig.com

Resources

National Real Estate Investors Association

Traction: Get a Grip on Your Business by Gino Wickman

ActiveCampaign

Deal Maker Live

The Deal Maker’s Mastermind

David’s Free eBook: Personal Cashflow Formula

MB 241: What to Say to Potential Multifamily Investors – With David Kamara

Mon, 23 Nov 2020 06:00:00 -0400

What is the best way to approach the conversation with potential multifamily investors? How do you communicate the benefits of investing in apartment buildings over other asset classes and assure them that their money is safe with you—even if you’re new to the space?

David Kamara is the Founder and Managing Director of Cape Sierra Capital, a multifamily syndication firm out of Ann Arbor, Michigan. He has 15 years of investing experience in the real estate space, getting his start with a portfolio of residential single family and duplex units before transitioning to apartment buildings and townhome communities. Today, David owns 200-plus units and serves as a mentor on the Michael Blank team.

On this episode of Apartment Building Investing, David joins cohost Drew Whitson and I to explain how he coaches his mentoring students to approach the conversation with potential investors, describing how multifamily isn’t subject to the same risks as single family rentals. He weighs in on what helps aspiring syndicators believe in their ability to succeed, exploring how knowledge helps us visualize what’s possible but action is key in making it real. Listen in for David’s insight on getting your priorities straight and learn how underwriting to cashflow makes multifamily a good investment no matter what’s going on in the world.

Key Takeaways

What David’s been up to since his last appearance

Find competitive deals with good return for investors
Develop personal cashflow formula (free eBook)
Share knowledge through platform, mentoring

What helps aspiring multifamily investors believe it’s possible

Knowledge (i.e.: understanding of loans, taxes)
Personality open to learning new things

How COVID changed the way David talks to investors

Proactive in reaching out to investors
Open about potential for no distributions

How COVID has impacted David’s underwriting

Assume minimal rent increases for next 3 years
Take on longer, fixed-rate debt (HUD loans)
Prepare investors for longer hold periods

David’s advice around market timing

Don’t worry about things can’t control
Plan for same cap rate at sale, focus on cashflow
Choose markets with job diversity

How David coaches his students on talking to investors

Explain cash-on-cash return and appreciation
In control of both factors with multifamily

Why David invested in the Platform Builder Incubator

Eventually run out of investors as business scales
Attract high-income earners, serve more people
Accelerate growth (program tailored to syndicators)

David’s plan to produce content consistently

Write blogs on common questions
Considering podcast as medium

David’s advice for aspiring multifamily syndicators

You have to start (buy something)
Prioritize what’s important in life
Hustle to find deals

Connect with David Kamara

Cape Sierra Capital

Resources

David Karmara on Apartment Building Investing EP182

HUD Loans

HubSpot

Michael’s Health Crisis on Apartment Building Investing EP230

MB 240: How to Get Unstuck & Get Into Action – With Matt Brawner

Mon, 16 Nov 2020 06:00:00 -0400

A lot of would-be multifamily syndicators get stuck, sometimes out of fear and sometimes because they want to plan every step of the process before they dive in. But that’s not how entrepreneurship works! In fact, the most successful real estate investors are the ones who are willing to put themselves out there and learn by doing—taking consistent, imperfect action.

Matt Brawner is Managing Partner at Minnesota Capital Management and Northwoods Servicing, a real estate investing firm and property management company based in Coon Rapids, Minnesota. Matt and his partners have achieved considerable success turning their $5K investments into a portfolio worth more than $20M, but his greatest passion is teaching. To that end, Matt now serves as a mentor with the Michael Blank organization.

On this episode of Apartment Building Investing, Matt joins cohost Drew Whitson and I to explain how he got into real estate, discussing how he formed a successful partnership with five other investors and what inspired their transition from townhomes to multifamily properties. He introduces us to the idea of setting up debt funds to raise capital and shares the pros and cons of having your own property management company. Listen in for Matt’s insight on scaling a multifamily business and learn how YOU can get unstuck and get into ACTION to become a successful real estate syndicator!

Key Takeaways

What inspired Matt to become a mentor

Career = function of faith
Help others achieve time freedom

How Matt got into real estate

Realized no influence on stock market
Local opportunity to rent townhomes

What makes for a good partnership

Communicate well (100% honesty)
Equal share of financial burden

Matt’s transition from townhomes to multifamily

Local operator had deal but needed capital
Matt’s team had money to invest

Why Matt’s team had set up debt funds

Needed capital to scale business
Attracts investors who want certainty

Matt’s top lessons learned in real estate investing

Get into multifamily much sooner
All properties not created equal

The benefits of having a property management company

Own more of value chain
Insight into local deals

Matt’s advice on property management for new investors

Use third party when getting started
Allows to scale quicker, more efficiently

The traits of a successful multifamily syndicator

Willing to learn by doing
Willing to wade into unknown

Matt’s insight on underwriting post-COVID

Focus on forced appreciation
Add value to drive incremental revenue

What aspiring investors get stuck on

Fear
Desire to plan out everything in advance

The challenges Matt faces in scaling his business

Find landlord-friendly markets
Intentional networking to find deals

Connect with Matt Brawner

Matt on LinkedIn

Email matt@nwsproperties.com

Resources

Download Michael’s Free Report—What’s the Best Investment: The Stock Market or Real Estate?

Traction: Get a Grip on Your Business by Gino Wickman

National Multifamily Housing Council

Star Capital Management Group

MB 239: Developing a Can-Be-Done Mindset for Multifamily – With Jeremy LeMere

Mon, 09 Nov 2020 06:00:00 -0400

So, you’ve got some experience in single family rentals. And you KNOW that multifamily investing would help you achieve financial freedom on an accelerated timeline. But you just don’t BELIEVE that you can do it. What can you do to overcome that hurdle and develop the confidence to take on your first deal?

Jeremy LeMere is the Principal at Star Capital Management Group, an equity real estate investment firm based in DePere, Wisconsin. He began his investing career over a decade ago, rehabbing single family and duplex properties. Since then, he has grown his personal portfolio to include multifamily, self-storage and commercial assets. Jeremy recently quit his corporate engineering job to pursue real estate full time, and he also serves as a mentor with the Michael Blank organization.

On this episode of Apartment Building Investing, Jeremy joins me to explain how seeing his net worth drop during the Great Recession inspired his interest in real estate. He walks us through his early investments in single family homes and duplexes, discussing why he made the shift to multifamily to replace his W-2 income much faster. Listen in for Jeremy’s insight on raising capital with an online platform and learn how YOU can leverage mentorship to overcome limiting beliefs and invest in your first multifamily deal!

Key Takeaways

What inspired Jeremy’s interest in real estate

Committed to saving and investing as much as possible
Net worth cut in half, 401(k) collapsed in recession

Jeremy’s initial real estate investing strategy

Bought and operated duplexes in local area
Denied loan on third property
Build portfolio of SFH with BRRRR method

How Jeremy funded his investments without bank loans

Liquidate stocks, use 401(k) and savings
Work with credit union
Start flipping SFH and reinvesting profit

What inspired Jeremy’s shift to multifamily

Passed over for promotion at corporate job
Changed goal from replace income at 55 to 45

How Jeremy got started with multifamily

Join Michael Blank mentoring program
Develop can-be-done mindset

The timeline on Jeremy’s first multifamily deal

Started mentoring program in January 2018
Identified asset with value to unlock by March
Acquired few months later (at asking price)
Took from 82% to 98% occupancy in 3 months

The opportunities Jeremy identified in his first deal

Value-add and increase rents as units turn
Address vacancy gap (comps 100% occupancy)

Jeremy’s approach to quitting his corporate job

Gradually empower team to take over duties
Last day of work = non-event

How Jeremy’s life is different as a full-time investor

Free up time to enjoy lake house with family
Able to help others as career coach, mentor

Jeremy’s decision to add self-storage to his portfolio

Local opportunity for 2 sites with 300 units
Closed on 7/3, increase in occupancy already

How Jeremy raised money for the self-storage opportunity

Needed $500K (2/3 from outside investors)
Partner on funding side of wholesaling, flips

Why Jeremy is building a platform to raise capital

Weakness in self-promotion and marketing
Use automation to attract new investors

What Jeremy is working on right now

Look for next big syndication deal
Build out platform with content

Connect with Jeremy LeMere

Resources

The Miracle Equation: The Two Decisions That Move Your Biggest Goals from Possible, to Probably, to Inevitable by Hal Elrod

The 4-Hour Work Week: Escape 9-5, Live Anywhere, and Join the New Rich by Timothy Ferriss

MB 238: Plug into a Multifamily Network & Fast-Track Your Success – With Barry Flavin

Mon, 02 Nov 2020 06:00:00 -0400

How do you land your first syndication deal without a track record in multifamily? Well, it all starts with networking. Networking with brokers. Networking with potential investors. Networking with other multifamily operators. And if you can get plugged a real estate investing community, you can leverage the knowledge and experience of investors who’ve been where you want to go and fast-track your success!

Barry Flavin is a mentor with the Michael Blank organization and Managing Partner at New Mission Capital, a multifamily investment firm out of Detroit, Michigan. He got his start in real estate eight years ago, building a portfolio of 30 single family rentals before making the shift to multifamily. Barry has a background in software sales and spent six years working as an air traffic controller before discovering real estate, and today, he owns 387 units, leveraging his expertise in investor relations to grow the business.

On this episode of Apartment Building Investing, Barry joins cohost Drew Whitson and I to explain how an air traffic controller ends up in real estate, walking us through his transition from building a portfolio of single family rentals to raising capital for large multifamily deals. He discusses the advantages of focusing his investments in a single market, describing how he found his partner, Josh, and what they do to secure consistent deal flow. Listen in for Barry’s insight on avoiding expensive mistakes with 1:1 mentoring and find out how YOU can accelerate your success through the Michael Blank community.

Key Takeaways

What inspired Barry’s interest real estate

Looking to supplement government pension
Desire to travel in retirement

Barry’s initial real estate investing strategy

Fix up and sell personal residences
BRRRR method (build SFH rental portfolio)

How Josh funded his early real estate investments

Start with own cash, retirement accounts
Borrow from private lenders and refinance properties

How Barry and Josh structure their partnership

Josh finds and underwrites deals + operates portfolio
Barry’s focus on investor relationships, raising capital

How Barry raised $2.8M for his first 144-unit deal

Lot of phone calls, emails, coffees and dinners
Scrambling after few weeks but fell into place

Barry’s advice on making a capital raise less stressful

Touchpoints 1, 2 and 3 while still looking for deal
Show potential investors sample deal package

How Barry benefits from focusing on the Detroit market

Knowledge of best neighborhoods to invest
Track record + broker relationships = deal flow

Barry’s advice for aspiring investors without a track record

Network with brokers and investors
Add value to partner (borrow their reputation)

The #1 thing new syndicators need to do to be successful

Deep dive into online content to learn language
Get plugged into community

Barry’s insight on having in-house property management

Can outsource in beginning, interview for best fit
Consider in-house team as business scales

How Barry thinks about adding to his team

Weakness around building funnel for new investors
May hire admin to streamline marketing strategy

Barry’s take on goal setting for multifamily

Don’t have set number of units
Consistently do GOOD deals (minimum of 2/year)

Barry’s advice to his younger self

Learn to use money as tool much sooner
Accelerate real estate with 1:1 coaching program

Barry’s advice for aspiring multifamily investors

Be coachable and follow through
Don’t get stuck in analysis paralysis
Learn from every deal (even if don’t go through)
Don’t listen to naysayers

Connect with Barry Flavin

New Mission Capital

Email barry@newmissioncapital.com

Barry on LinkedIn

Resources

CDC Moratorium on Evictions

Josh Sterling on Apartment Building Investing EP091

Sample Deal Package

Josh Gozlan on Apartment Building Investing EP078

Deal Maker’s Mastermind

Garrett Lynch on Apartment Building Investing EP231

MB 237: Biggest Myths about Building a Platform to Raise Capital – With Patricia Sweeney

Mon, 26 Oct 2020 05:00:00 -0400

Wish you could attract an audience of engaged, eager investors like we do at Nighthawk Equity? Have you thought about building a thought leadership platform but rejected the idea because you’re not a writer or a techie? Or because you don’t like the way you look or sound on camera? Are you ready to get over those false beliefs and scale your capital raise in a matter of months?

Patricia Sweeney is the Marketing Automation Consultant behind Ideally Media Group, a firm that helps entrepreneurs and business owners implement content marketing systems to attract more of the right clients and significantly increase their revenue. With 10-plus years of experience in online marketing, Patricia has been the secret weapon behind some of the biggest names in the digital marketing space. She is also part of the Michael Blank team, working hands-on with the students in our Platform Builders program.

On this episode of Apartment Building Investing, Patricia joins me to discuss the limiting beliefs that stop syndicators from building an online thought leadership platform. She explains why you DO have time and why you CAN justify the investment, describing how our students are attracting new investors—sometimes even before the program is over! Listen in for Patricia’s insight on avoiding the biggest mistakes syndicators make in building a platform and learn how YOU can scale your capital raise through our Platform Builder Incubator.

Key Takeaways

The advantages we have around platform building in 2020

EASY to get message to many through social media
Tech never more powerful or easier to use
Outsource tasks to highly qualified global VAs

What limiting beliefs stop syndicators from building a platform

I’m not a techie or a writer
I don’t have the time
I can save money by doing it myself
I can’t justify the investment

Why you DO have time to build a thought leadership platform

Delegate/automate production and distribution
Don’t have to become digital marketing expert

Why you aren’t really saving money by doing it yourself

Time = precious resource, better spent finding deals
Focus on what drives business forward (raise capital)

Why you CAN justify the investment in building a platform

Leverage content marketing to attract more investors
Reinvest 20% of revenue and SCALE UP capital raise

The biggest mistakes syndicators make in building a platform

Thinking you only need a website
Not having a lead magnet
Not communicating with your list
Trying to do everything at once
Striving for perfection

My advice on avoiding overwhelm in building a platform

Build core platform as foundation
Layer on one lead gen program at a time

Connect with Patricia Sweeney

Ideally Media

Resources

Download Michael’s Free Report—What’s the Best Investment: The Stock Market or Real Estate?

What Is a Platform & Why Should You Build One? on ABI EP235

Megan’s No-Nonsense Women’s Guide to Investing

MB 236: The Financial Freedom to Do What You Love – With Megan Lamke

Mon, 19 Oct 2020 05:00:00 -0400

Time is precious. Are you spending your days doing what you love with the people you love? What if multifamily real estate could help you do just that? What if you could achieve financial freedom fast—regardless of your current financial situation?

Megan Lamke is Managing Partner at Megan Lamke Real Estate, a firm that helps driven women turn their grit into true financial growth. She built a network of real estate investors working for Wells Fargo Home Mortgage, and once she and her husband, Darik, had paid off their personal debt ($535K in under 5 years!), they started investing passively in multifamily syndications. Megan quit her corporate job to pursue active investing full-time in April of 2019, and today, the Lamkes have a portfolio of 1,491 units valued at $344M.

On this episode of Apartment Building Investing, Megan joins me to explain why she took a W-2 job after college (despite wanting to become a real estate entrepreneur) and what she and Darik did to live below their means and pay off their debt so fast. She describes what she did to find a good operator as a passive investor and how she leveraged her sales and marketing background to transition to active investing. Listen in for Megan’s insight on how to raise capital at scale with a platform and learn how YOU can achieve financial freedom and spend time doing what you love!

Key Takeaways

When Megan started thinking about real estate

Parents struggled financially, read Rich Dad Poor Dad at age 10
Entrepreneurship and business clubs in high school and college

Why Megan took a W-2 job after college

Needed to pay off student loan debt before leave Rat Race
Learned sales skills, got to work with real estate investors

What Megan and her husband did to live below their means

Sold luxury cars, bought cars for cash
House hacked 6BR (rented to rugby teammates)
Side hustle as sales and marketing consultant

How Megan and her husband got on the same page financially

Financial literacy class as part of premarital counseling
Set goal to pay off debt, achieve financial freedom

How Megan’s strategy shifted once she was out of debt

Sold 6BR house to invest passively in multifamily syndications
Goal to replace corporate salary as quickly as possible

Megan’s advice on finding a good multifamily operator

Look at track record, online reviews, lawsuits and marketing efforts
Ask questions re: where properties located, how managed, etc.

What Megan’s last day of work was like

Surreal (like leaving the Matrix)
Culmination of goal that started in fifth grade

How Megan’s life is different now that she’s a full-time investor

Control own time (decide when to work)
Spend more time with daughter, volunteering

What active investing looks like for Megan

Use SDA to underwrite 10 deals/day (300 in 2019)
Leverage background in sales and marketing to build out platform

What Megan has done to scale her capital raise efforts

Done-for-you tech stack to automate lead gen, booking calls
30 to 37 calls with prospective investors every week

What Megan is doing to attract prospective investors to her platform

Create content (social media, videos, blog and weekly webinar)
Sponsor real estate events, promote lead magnet on podcasts

How Megan describes her ideal investor

Successful career woman age 40-55, primary breadwinner
Gritty and knows how to get stuff done

How the automation works to turn interested prospects into investors

Receive automated email with free download
Follow up with drip marketing campaign to encourage call

How much capital Megan has raised through her online platform

$18M raise to close on $49M apartment building
In process of closing on $18M 503(c)

How raising capital looks different now that Megan has a platform

Don’t have to call each investor, track follow-up manually
One centralized management tool that automatically follows up

Connect with Megan Lamke

Megan Lamke Real Estate

Megan on Facebook

Megan on Instagram

Megan on LinkedIn

Resources

Business Professionals of America

DECA

Dave Ramsey

Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing: The Blueprint to Quitting Your Job with Real Estate—Even without Experience or Cash by Michael Blank

The Miracle Morning: The Not-So-Obvious Secret Guaranteed to Transform Your Life (Before 8AM) by Hal Elrod

Michael’s Syndicated Deal Analyzer

MB 235: What Is a Platform & Why Should You Build One?

Mon, 12 Oct 2020 05:00:00 -0400

What is the secret to growing a multimillion-dollar multifamily syndication business? The strategy that has worked for my team, allowing us to raise MILLIONS in just a few days, starts with building an online thought leadership platform.

On this episode of Apartment Building Investing, I’m walking you through the three pillars of platform building for multifamily syndicators. I explain WHO should consider building a platform and WHY it’s so valuable, describing how it helps us find more investors, do more deals and scale the business.

I discuss how to attract your ideal investor and then serve them with valuable content, ultimately turning your audience into raving fans who want to invest with you. Listen in for insight on reinvesting a portion of your revenue to grow a multimillion-dollar syndication business and learn how a thought leadership platform can help you 10X your capital raise in just 18 to 24 months!

Key Takeaways

Who should consider building a platform to raise money for syndications

You’ve raised at least $500K but need more investors
You’re looking to 10X your capital raise capacity
You want to raise millions quickly and effortlessly

What a platform allows you to do as a multifamily syndicator

Automatically attract ideal investors
Do more deals, create more revenue
Reinvest in platform to attract more investors
Educate audience on real estate syndications

The 3 pillars of platform building for multifamily syndicators

Attract right audience
Develop raving fans
Scale your business

Pillar #1: Attracting the Right Audience

Identify ideal client avatar (investor)
Capture leads with free lead magnet

Pillar #2: Developing Raving Fans

SERVE with content + LEAD to action
Promote message to grow email list

Pillar #3: Scaling Your Business

Make compelling offer that generates revenue
Reinvest portion of revenue (continue growth)

The ROI on building a platform to raise money for syndications

For every 32 leads, one ends up investing $70K
Each new investor generates $2,100 in acquisition fees
Reinvesting 25% will 10X capital raise in 18-24 months

Resources

MB 234: Earn Your Master’s in Real Estate with a Mentor – With Josh Gorokhovsky

Mon, 05 Oct 2020 05:00:00 -0400

Yes, an education in business or finance is a good foundation for a real estate investor. But spending time with an experienced syndicator and watching a deal happen firsthand is more valuable than any degree. So, how do you find a mentor and convince them you’re worth their time?

Josh Gorokhovsky is the Managing Principal at Telos Properties, a real estate investing firm that focuses on 2- to 4-unit new construction, build-to-rent projects in Los Angeles. After graduating from USC in 2015, he interned for LA Properties under company principal Scott Rosenfeld. Since founding Telos in 2017, Josh has placed more than $7M in equity for investors and managed $20M worth of real estate transactions.

On this episode of Apartment Building Investing, Josh joins cohost Drew Whitson and I to explain how he broke into real estate at the age of 21, describing the persistence it took to get an informal internship with his mentor. He gets real about the 900 hours he dedicated to finding his first deal and why he niched down to the new construction, build-to-rent model. Listen in to understand what gave Josh the confidence to go solo at 23 and get his advice on working for free early on to build the network and experience you need to succeed!

Key Takeaways

How Josh got into real estate

Inspired by Kiyosaki’s Rich Dad Poor Dad
Introduced to mentor by family friend

Josh’s initial strategy for breaking into the industry

Find someone doing what he wanted to do
Put in time to understand fundamentals

How Josh’s sales background prepared him for real estate

Learn to deal with rejection, build backbone
Build routines and systems to follow up

How Josh got in the door with his mentor

Persistence (call regularly to ask for internship)
Dedication to finding deal after 9-to-5

Josh’s transition from tech sales to real estate

Spent year working for hard money lender
Cushion of income while learning real estate

What gave Josh the confidence to go solo

Moved back in with parents
Mentor willing to teach

Josh’s first deal

Lead from mailer dropped in neighborhood
Piece of equity in single family rehab project

Josh’s first solo deal

Ground-up duplex development (less risky)
Family friend was first private investor

How Josh has scaled up his business

Use leverage of previous project to go to next
Continue cold calling, reaching out to agents

What Josh is working on today

8 development projects in the works
6 units under management

How Josh navigated the times when he was down on himself

Positive self-talk, innate belief in self
Encouragement of mentor

Josh’s advice for aspiring real estate investors

Get ‘master’s degree’ with mentor
Get taste of everything, then determine niche
Provide value to everyone you work with

Connect with Josh Gorokhovsky

Email josh@telosproperties.com

Resources

Freedom Venture Investments

MB 233: From Trading Time for Money to Financial Freedom– With Dave Seymour

Mon, 28 Sep 2020 05:00:00 -0400

Trading time for money has a ceiling. There are only so many hours in the day, and eventually, we run out. And those of us who work 80 hours a week (or more!) to make ends meet simply can’t be a good partner or parent. So, what can we do to get out of this broken system and achieve financial freedom?

Dave Seymour is the Cofounder and CEO of Freedom Venture Management, a results-driven investing firm that focuses on multifamily and commercial real estate. After 16 years as a Boston firefighter and paramedic, Dave discovered real estate and quickly became one of the nation’s top investors. His passion for the business and propensity to tell it like it is landed Dave his own real estate reality series on A&E, and he has also appeared on CBS, ABC and CNBC, among many other national media outlets.

On this episode of Apartment Building Investing, Dave joins me to explain how he went from working 120 hours a week as a firefighter and paramedic to starring in Flipping Boston on A&E. He describes how real estate saved his financial life and weighs in on what multifamily assets his team is buying now to generate cashflow right away. Listen in for Dave’s insight on building a platform by being yourself and learn to replace fear with faith and say YES to the opportunities that come your way!

Key Takeaways

How Dave got his own show on A&E

Separate self from pack
Amplify what’s special about you

What Dave was doing before real estate

16 years as firefighter + paramedic
Spending money didn’t have

What inspired Dave to pursue financial freedom

Working 120 hours/week
Couldn’t be good husband or dad

How Dave got into real estate

Heard about seminar on radio
Invested $27K in classes

What Dave is good at

Knowing what real emergency is
Assess landscape + execute

How Dave makes up for his weaknesses

Recognize what’s not core competency
Hire exceptional fund managers

How Dave built a platform for raising money

Authenticity (no BS)
Search for other’s needs and serve

Dave’s biggest challenges right now

Getting qualified funds
Marketing to right audience
Meet-and-greets during COVID

What assets Dave’s team is buying

Multifamily on Florida Gulf Coast
Focus on 40- to 140-unit properties

What’s next for Dave and Freedom Venture

Build infrastructure for $250M Fund 2
Direct lending to other investors

Dave’s definition of success

Physical, mental and spiritual wellbeing
Family and faith (to replace fear)

Connect with Dave Seymour

Freedom Venture on Facebook

Dave on Twitter

Dave on Instagram

Dave on LinkedIn

Resources

Three Feet from Gold: Turn Your Obstacles into Opportunities by Sharon L. Lechter and Greg S. Reid

Flipping Boston

Daymond John

Tony Robbins

Tunnel to Towers Foundation

The Miracle Equation: The Two Decisions That Move Your Biggest Goals from Possible, to Probable, to Inevitable by Hal Elrod

The Untethered Soul: A Journey Beyond Yourself by Michael A. Singer

MB 232: Turbocharge Your F.I.R.E. Journey with Real Estate – With Rajneesh Jha

Mon, 21 Sep 2020 05:00:00 -0400

The F.I.R.E. movement challenges us to achieve financial independence and retire early by saving and investing aggressively. And by aggressively, I mean anywhere between 50% and 70% of your income. Rajneesh Jha was following the F.I.R.E. method, putting his money in Wall Street investments—until he realized he could fast-track his timeline with multifamily real estate!

Raj spent 20 years working as an engineer for Fortune 500 companies. An avid student of the stock market and personal finance, he started investing in safe, low-cost mutual funds with the goal of achieving financial freedom in about 10 years. Then he discovered real estate and shifted his strategy, building a portfolio of small multifamily properties. Earlier this year, he quit his 9-to-5 to build Big League Capital, a multifamily syndication firm that helps other investors turbocharge their journey with real estate.

On this episode of Apartment Building Investing, Raj joins me to explain how shifting from F.I.R.E. to multifamily accelerated his journey to financial freedom. He offers his take on the stock market as an investment class, describing how the returns pale in comparison to real estate. Listen in for insight around transitioning from landlording to syndication and find out how Raj’s life has changed since he quit his corporate job!

Key Takeaways

How Raj’s journey to financial freedom began

Stumbled on F.I.R.E. movement 7 years ago
Invest in low-cost, diversified mutual funds

What the F.I.R.E. method teaches

Save substantial amount of income (up to 70%)
Save more, arrive at financial nirvana faster

How Raj was able to save a lot of money with F.I.R.E.

No drastic changes to lifestyle
More conscious + intentional about spending

What Raj was trying to accomplish through F.I.R.E.

Protect family from vagaries of corporate life
Get to place where work becomes optional

Raj’s take on the stock market as an investment class

Can get burned if chase trends
Prosper with disciplined, consistent strategy
Pales in comparison to returns on real estate

How Raj discovered the world of real estate investing

Came across BRRRR method with Paula Pant
Learned about scale from Matt Faircloth

How Raj differs from the average stock market investor

Passionate about personal finance
Extensive reading and education

Raj’s first real estate investment

Bought triplex in Summer of 2017
Made fair share of mistakes but believed in vision

How Raj’s long-term plan shifted once he found real estate

4% safe withdrawal rate vs. 12% cash-on-cash return
Accelerate journey by 3X with multifamily investing

How Raj’s life is different after quitting his job

Time to relax and plan next chapter
Work on my schedule, do things that matter to me

What’s next for Raj and his investing partners

Looking for 60- to 120-unit value-add property
Psyched to go from landlording to syndication

What Raj would do differently if he could go back

Start sooner and be bolder
See mistakes as rite of passage

Raj’s advice for achieving financial freedom

Get clear on what you really want
Skip stock market, go right into multifamily
Have faith and take prudent risks
Don’t let lack of funds/experience hold you back
Spend time on real estate education

Connect with Rajneesh Jha

The Big League Capital

Email raj@bigleague-capital.com

Call (267) 551-0529

Resources

Access Michael’s Ultimate Guide to Buying Apartment Buildings with Private Money

Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing: The Blueprint to Quitting Your Job with Real Estate—Even without Experience or Cash by Michael Blank

Financial Independence Retire Early Movement

Brandon Turner on BiggerPockets

BiggerPockets on YouTube

Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill

Rich Dad Poor Dad: What the Rich Teach Their Kids About Money That the Poor and Middle Class Do Not! by Robert T. Kiyosaki

MB 231: Lessons of a Master Multifamily Deal Finder – With Garrett Lynch

Mon, 14 Sep 2020 05:00:00 -0400

2020 has been a tough year for finding deals—even for us. In fact, the Nighthawk Equity team is currently in the process of closing on our first and only deal of the year (so far). But that’s not for lack of trying! So, what are we looking for in a deal right now? How have we changed our underwriting criteria in the age of COVID? And how do we recover from the disappointment of losing a deal?

Garrett Lynch is the Director of Acquisitions at Nighthawk Equity, the investing arm of the Michael Blank organization. Garrett has been in the multifamily space since 2011, cofounding a firm that grew from zero to 3,400 units before successfully exiting that venture. Since taking on his role with us at Nighthawk in 2018, Garrett has built a portfolio that includes at 218-unit property in Little Rock, Arkansas a 276-unit in Huntsville, Alabama, and a 130-unit deal in Atlanta, Georgia.

On this episode of Apartment Building Investing, Garrett joins me to explain how his strategy for finding multifamily deals has evolved over the years and what we look for in a deal at Nighthawk Equity. He describes what he does to build rapport with brokers and stay in touch, sharing how strong broker relationships helped us land our current deal in Atlanta. Listen in for Garrett’s insight on recovering from the disappointment of losing a deal and learn how to adjust your underwriting to find good multifamily deals in the COVID era.

Key Takeaways

How Garrett’s strategy for finding deals has evolved over the years

Look for best price per door in D class neighborhoods early on
More granular on underwriting today, focus on B and C class

How we dialed in our criteria for deals at Nighthawk Equity

Look at capacity on equity raise and debt structure
Gradual progression on size of deals
Choose value-add properties in certain markets

The benefits of collocating deals in just a few markets

Share resources (e.g.: staff)
Hit several properties in one trip

How we select markets at Nighthawk Equity

Resources available to operate and steady dealflow
Population, job and overall economic growth

How Garrett builds rapport with brokers

Stand out by responding whether like deal or not
Meet in person and check in regularly, share successes

How Garrett recovers from the disappointment of losing a deal

Channel hurt into next quest
Commit to process

How we landed our current deal in Atlanta

Follow up with broker re: deal another investor won
Unobstructed shot when that deal fell apart

Garrett’s system for staying in touch with brokers

Put regular check-ins on calendar (target markets of interest)
Come with thoughtful questions re: specific deals
Reach out when land deal in their market to build demand

How we have adjusted our underwriting at Nighthawk in the COVID era

Tailor underwriting around few available debt products
Set natural market appreciation at ZERO for Year 1
Create cushion of 0.5% on reversionary cap rate
Cash reserves minimum of 10% of total spent on deal
Research tenant demographic to ensure cashflow from Day 1

Connect with Garrett Lynch

Resources

Submit a Deal to the Michael Blank Deal Desk

Access Michael’s Syndicated Deal Analyzer

National Multi Housing Council

LoopNet

CREXi

The Miracle Equation: The Two Decisions That Move Your Biggest Goals from Possible, to Probable, to Inevitable by Hal Elrod

Michael’s First Deal Maker Award Recipients

MB 230: Don’t Wait for a Crisis to Get Your Priorities Straight!

Mon, 07 Sep 2020 05:00:00 -0400

If you knew you only had six months to live, what would you do differently? Who would you spend time with? Who would you reconcile with? How would you spend your days?

On this episode of Apartment Building Investing, I’m describing the health crisis that landed me in the ER at the end of July. I explain how the experience forced me to rethink my priorities and reaffirmed my mission to help people to achieve financial freedom through multifamily investing!

Listen in for insight on how to get clarity in your life and take on the challenge to get your affairs in order and start living your best life NOW.

Key Takeaways

My recent experience with a health crisis

Heart attack on July 28, 2020
100% blockage in main artery

How the health emergency forced me to rethink my priorities

Value health and family above all else
Affirmed mission (financial freedom with multifamily)

My advice on getting your affairs in order NOW

Set up revocable trust and life insurance
Structure entities so controlled by trust
Document where to find important info

Two powerful exercises for getting clarity in your life

6 months to live
Perfect Day

Resources

Deal Maker Live

Dave Ramsey

Michael’s Financial Freedom Hall of Fame

Garrett Sutton

Brandon Turner

The Miracle Morning: The 6 Habits That Will Transform Your Life Before 8AM by Hal Elrod

MB 229: Commit, Don’t Quit 3 Feet from Gold! – With David Acosta

Mon, 31 Aug 2020 05:00:00 -0400

We’re told that our goals have to be time-bound. That we have to give ourselves a deadline if we want to achieve. The problem with that is too many of us quit three feet from gold, as the saying goes. But how do you stay committed when a year has gone by and you still don’t have your first multifamily deal?

David Acosta was a mentoring student in The Michael Blank Investor Incubator. With no money and no background in investing, David leveraged his mentor, Drew Kniffin, and our Deal Maker’s Mastermind investor network to partner on his first venture, a 220-unit deal orchestrated by Ben Risser’s team. Six months later, David closed on a 48-unit deal in Lexington, KY, this time serving as lead syndicator!

On this episode of Apartment Building Investing, David joins me to discuss how he did his first multifamily deal—without any money or previous real estate experience. He explains how having a mentor helped him build confidence and stay committed when his first deal took a few months longer than expected. Listen in for David’s insight on partnering with others to earn credibility and learn why it’s crucial to commit to the outcome you want, not the timeline.

Key Takeaways

What prompted David’s interest in multifamily investing

Background in restaurants, wanted to control time
Real estate investing research led to TMB course

What made David think he could skip SFH investing

Mentor to look over shoulder through process
Took course to get educated + build confidence

Why David felt having a mentor was the right choice for him

No background in real estate (shorten timeline)
Invest in education to be taken seriously

David’s frustration with missing his 12-month goal

Deflating to fall short, temptation to walk away
Mentor encouraged to commit to goal vs. timeline

How David finally found his first deal

Connect with others in Deal Maker Mastermind
Partner as GP with another investor’s team

How the Law of the First Deal worked for David

Competitive advantage in closing second deal
Had confidence to serve as lead syndicator

What’s next for David as a real estate investor

Build out team, efficiencies in processes
Scale and grow business from there

David’s advice for aspiring multifamily investors

Develop persistence to commit to outcome
Get educated and consider hiring mentor
Join an ecosystem, JV to build track record

Connect with David Acosta

Acosta Capital

David on LinkedIn

David on Instagram

Resources

Check Out Michael’s First Deal Maker Profiles

Explore Michael’s Products & Programs

Connect with Other Investors in the Deal Maker’s Mastermind

Ed Hermsen on Apartment Building Investing EP225

Drew Kniffin at Nighthawk Equity

The Miracle Equation: The Two Decisions That Move Your Biggest Goals from Possible, to Probable, to Inevitable by Hal Elrod

Ben Risser on Apartment Building Investing EP102

MB 228: What’s Working Now to Get Deals Done – With Drew Whitson & the Michael Blank Mentoring Team

Mon, 24 Aug 2020 05:00:00 -0400

Despite the disruption of COVID-19, multifamily investors are still doing deals. The question is, HOW? What’s working right now to get deals done? What isn’t? What are real people doing to find success in today’s market environment?

On this episode of Apartment Building Investing, I’m handing the mic over to Drew Whitson to moderate a discussion with our mentoring team, Todd Dexheimer, Brad Tacia, Phil Capron and Matt Brawner, on what’s working now to get deals done. We explain how our mentoring students are leveraging the COVID pause to build relationships and how the balance of power has shifted among syndicator, buyer and broker in recent months.

We go on to explore the benefit of a strong relationship with your property manager and how underwriting has changed in light of the pandemic. Listen in for insight into what makes multifamily the strongest asset class in real estate and learn the ONE thing our most successful students are doing right now to get deals done.

Key Takeaways

What Matt’s most successful students have done in 2020

Leverage pause in market (Seinfeld time)
Use time to build relationships with brokers

What Phil’s students are doing to acquire multifamily properties

Worry about ‘making it to next meal’
Figure out how to become viable buyer

Todd’s advice on how to talk to investors right now

Continue to educate and keep investors informed
Overcommunicate to build relationships

How Brad is coaching his students around underwriting

Network with mortgage broker re: what’s changed
Modify SDAs to ensure accurate underwriting

How running a property management firm informs Matt’s underwriting

Understanding of street rent and how units operate over time
Haven’t cut back on rents but less aggressive with rent bumps

How underwriting has changed in light of the COVID pandemic

Build in more time for rent growth
Consider changes in rental laws by market

What makes multifamily the strongest asset class in real estate

Performs well through economic disruption
Lockdown led to desire for nicer apartment

The one thing our most successful students are doing right now

Willing to make mistakes by doing
Get out there and build relationships
Analyze deals (still numbers game)
Willing to partner to gain experience
Take consistent action every day

Connect with Drew, Todd, Brad, Phil & Matt

Resources

Pillars of Wealth Creation Podcast

MB 227: The State of Multifamily

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 21:09:20 -0400

Our world is in upheaval. Between COVID-19 and the current riots, nothing feels normal. And this has a lot of investors asking, is now the right time to pursue multifamily?

On this episode of Apartment Building Investing, I’m sharing my keynote address from Deal Maker Live 2020 on the current state of multifamily. I describe how multifamily is weathering the storm, explaining why it’s actually EASIER to raise money right now and why now IS the right time to invest in apartment buildings.

Listen in for insight around how to adjust your underwriting in the current economic environment and get my advice on what you SHOULD be doing right now to achieve financial freedom!

Key Takeaways

How multifamily is performing right now

Similar to 2008, deep quiet under storm
Collections surprisingly consistent

Why it’s easier to raise money in the current economic environment

Investors frustrated with volatility of stock market
Opening to discuss multifamily as alternative

When it’s the best time to invest in multifamily

Never going to be perfect time
Start working toward financial freedom NOW

How investors should adjust their tactics right now

Be smart about underwriting (↑ reserves, ↓ rent growth)
Avoid hard deposit, incorporate financing contingencies

What multifamily investors SHOULD be doing right now

Stay calm and stay the course
Remember your WHY
Keep momentum going

Resources

Join Michael’s Deal Maker’s Mastermind

MB 226: How to Protect Your Wealth in a Crisis – With Russell Gray

Mon, 10 Aug 2020 05:00:00 -0400

The black swan event financial pundits predicted has arrived in the form of the Coronavirus pandemic. But how, exactly, will the crisis play out in the markets? What does it mean for us as real estate investors? And what can we do to understand the changing reality, protect our wealth, and even capitalize on hidden opportunities?

Russell Gray is the cohost of The Real Estate Guys Radio Show, a podcast and platform dedicated to helping investors stay focused, motivated and informed. A financial strategist with 30-plus years of experience in business, investing, mortgage lending and financial services, Russell provides unique and practical insights that support entrepreneurial investors in growing and protecting their wealth through real estate and real asset investing. He is also the coauthor of Equity Happens: Building Lifelong Wealth with Real Estate.

On this episode of Apartment Building Investing, Russell joins me to share his take on the bigger story behind the pandemic, explaining how the government bailout will impact the value of the US dollar and its status as the world’s reserve currency. He walks us through the real estate strategies he likes right now, describing the benefit of investments that qualify as both REAL and ESSENTIAL. Listen in for Russel’s insight on protecting your wealth in a crisis and learn what YOU can do to adapt to the circumstances and thrive through a challenging time!

Key Takeaways

Russell’s take on the biggest story behind the Coronavirus

Debt crisis on horizon (more vulnerable now than 2008)
Potential for currency crisis as Fed continues to print $

Russell’s insight around the indicators that the dollar is weak

Dollar exhibits weakness against other currencies
All currencies exhibit weakness against precious metals

The consequences of the government’s Coronavirus bailout

High risk of inflation
Devaluation of dollar

How to protect your wealth from inflation, deflation and stagflation

Store in alternate form of liquidity like gold to preserve value
Invest in real assets (i.e.: real estate in resilient market)

Why now is a good time to be a real estate investor

Printing money favors debtor
Real estate = ultimate vehicle to short dollar

The right and wrong way to measure your net worth

Assets – liability = wrong way
Liquidity + positive cashflow = right way

What real estate strategies Russel likes right now

Things that are REAL and ESSENTIAL
Residential, energy, healthcare and distribution

Russell’s advice for investors taking a wait-and-see approach

Don’t wait for someone else to find best deals before you
Look for real estate (real asset) in resilient markets

Connect with Russell Gray

The Real Estate Guys

Email crisis@realestateguysradio.com for the Crisis Investing Webinar

Email silverseries@realestateguysradio.com for the Silver Series

Email preciousequity@realestateguysradio.com for the Precious Equity Tutorial

Resources

Peter Schiff

Reuters Article on the Dollar Index

Ken McElroy

Equity Happens: Building Lifelong Wealth with Real Estate by Robert Helms and Russell Gray

FRED Index on the Purchasing Power of the Consumer Dollar

Jim Rohn

Chris Martenson at Peak Prosperity

MB 225: How to Stay Committed to Your Multifamily Goals – With Ed Hermsen

Mon, 03 Aug 2020 05:00:00 -0400

According to the Law of the First Deal, a multifamily investor who buys their first apartment building will do their second and third deals in rapid succession, achieving financial freedom in just a year or two. But there is an exception to every rule, and Ed Hermsen is the ONE investor I know who did his first deal—and then life got in the way. So, what can he teach us about keeping momentum and staying committed to our multifamily goals?

Ed grew a portfolio of single-family rentals while working as a mortgage loan officer in Fort Collins, Colorado. Five years ago, he started studying multifamily and eventually partnered with a close friend on a 22-unit deal in Pensacola, Florida. After revisiting his goal to retire by 50, Ed realized he needed to recommit to multifamily, and in the last two years, he has leveraged the partnership model to build a portfolio of 210 units and quit his job with real estate!

On this episode of Apartment Building Investing, Ed joins me to describe how a 9-to-5 in mortgage banking inspired his real estate investing career and share his secrets to successful multifamily investing with partners. He discusses what made him the sole exception to the Law of the First Deal, explaining why there’s a four-year gap between his first and second deal and what finally inspired him to get back in the game. Listen in for Ed’s insight on the value of accountability and learn what YOU can do to stay committed to your multifamily goals.

Key Takeaways

How Ed got into real estate

Work in mortgage banking exposed to wealth-building potential
Bought SFH rental every year to build portfolio of 10

What inspired Ed to pursue financial freedom with multifamily

Never off clock, have to take calls (even on vacation)
Rely on real estate agents + economy for livelihood

Ed’s first multifamily deal

Friend found 22-unit in Pensacola, FL in 2015
Bought for $740K, valued at $1.5M now
No distributions first year (units in bad shape)
Challenge to manage vendors from afar

Ed’s second multifamily deal

Purchased 88-unit in Wyoming with 3 partners
Lead from attorney handling family dispute
Great loan from local bank, refinancing now

How Ed found his partners

Kids go to school together
Clients from mortgage business

Ed’s insight on building successful partnerships

Accountability and clear division of labor
Invest in attorney to do operating agreement

What made Ed the exception to the Law of the First Deal

Went back to buying fourplexes
Fell back into 9-to-5 routine

Ed’s advice around staying committed to your multifamily goals

Write down goals and revisit every morning
Build in accountability with mentor or coach

Ed’s latest multifamily deal

Bought 100-unit deal in Tulsa, OK with 2 partners
Establish relationships with local bank and realtor
Must follow housing authority rules

What’s next for Ed

Put 22-unit on market
Look for deals in Oklahoma
Learn more about syndications

Ed’s advice for aspiring multifamily investors

Build good team
Get educated on markets
Get first deal done

Connect with Ed Hermsen

Email edhermsen14114@gmail.com

Resources

Fellowship of Christian Athletes

Hal Elrod

The Miracle Morning: The Not-So-Obvious Secret Guaranteed to Transform Your Life (Before 8AM) by Hal Elrod

The Ultimate Guide to Buying Apartment Buildings with Private Money

The Miracle Equation: The Two Decisions That Move Your Biggest Goals from Possible, to Probably, to Inevitable by Hal Elrod

BiggerPockets

Goldman Sachs Economic Outlooks

MB 224: Why Multifamily is a Better Bet Than the Stock Market – With Bruce Fraser

Mon, 27 Jul 2020 05:00:00 -0400

Investing in the financial markets is stressful, especially in a crisis. And even if you happen to be brilliant at options trading, $100K in the equity market will still only buy $100K in assets. On the other hand, investing $100K in multifamily will buy you a $500K asset—and earn you five times the return. Not to mention the fact that it’s essentially recession-proof!

Bruce Fraser is the Managing Partner at Elkhorn Capital Partners, a private equity firm that focuses on multifamily residential real estate in economically insulated submarkets. Prior to Elkhorn, Bruce ran a lucrative hedge fund, successfully navigating the financial crisis before his research led him to multifamily. In a few short years, Bruce has built a portfolio of 1,600 units, and he currently serves as a member of the Forbes Real Estate Council.

On this episode of Apartment Building Investing, Bruce joins me to explain what makes multifamily a better investment than the financial markets, especially through the COVID-19 crisis. He tells us about his first multifamily deal (as one of my early coaching students!), discussing the challenges he faced early on and describing how the Law of the First Deal impacted his real estate career. Listen in for Bruce’s insight on the advantage of choosing a niche in distressed assets and learn his aggressive but realistic approach to scaling a multifamily business.

Key Takeaways

What makes multifamily a better investment than the financial markets

S&P 500 = 2.5% average annual return over last 20 years
Multiplier effect ($100K buys $500K asset, earn $100K vs. $20K)

Bruce’s first multifamily deal as one of my early coaching students

134-unit property in Fort Worth
$5.7M acquisition (raise $2.1M)
Sold 14 months later for $7.9M

Bruce’s experience with the Law of the First Deal

Second deal under contract when first closed
Acquire 3 to 4 per year ever since

Why Bruce chose a niche in distressed situations

More control over occupancy growth than rent growth
Create much more substantive equity in short period

Why Bruce sought out coaching early on

Overcome uncertainty
Understand deal structure

Bruce’s approach to scaling a multifamily business

Manage time wisely (leverage third-party property manager)
Be aggressive but realistic

Bruce’s experience through the COVID crisis

Investors ready to buy and deals available
Biggest challenge = lending environment

Bruce’s goals over the next three years

Double portfolio to 2K to 3K units
Centralized position in handful of markets

Why multifamily is the best investment through the pandemic

Tax efficient distributions
Demand for apartments remains high
Protects against inflation

Connect with Bruce Fraser

Elkhorn Capital Partners

Email bruce@elkhornpartners.com

Resources

Praxis Capital on LinkedIn

MB 223: An Insider’s Guide to Investing in Passive Real Estate Syndications – With Brian Burke

Mon, 20 Jul 2020 05:00:00 -0400

There are tons of books out there that teach you how to invest in real estate syndications with other people’s money. But what if you’re the ‘other people’? What resource teaches you how to evaluate opportunities and pick the right sponsor to trust with your money?

Brian Burke is the President and CEO of Praxis Capital, a private equity investment firm that focuses on repositioning multifamily properties. An expert real estate syndicator and investor, he has acquired 3,000 multifamily units and 700 single family rentals in his 30-year career. Brian is also the author of the new book, The Hands-Off Investor: An Insider’s Guide to Investing in Passive Real Estate Syndications.

On this episode of Apartment Building Investing, Brian joins me to explain why passive investors need to look beyond returns when comparing syndication opportunities. He discusses why the sponsor is a more important consideration than the market or the deal itself, sharing the cautionary tale of an investor who lost her life savings to an unethical syndicator. Listen in for Brian’s insight on the benefit of investing in a non-correlated asset like real estate and learn what questions to ask as you evaluate different investing opportunities.

Key Takeaways

The cautionary tale Brian included in The Hands-Off Investor

Grocery clerk sold fourplexes to invest in TIC syndication
Sponsor ran off with money and she lost life savings

The three indicators used to measure the performance of a real estate investment

IRR
Cash-on-cash return
Equity multiple

Why passive investors must look beyond returns when comparing opportunities

Sponsor can manipulate what forecasted cashflows will be
Look at what’s behind numbers to determine if reasonable

Why the sponsor is more important than the market or the deal itself

Bad sponsor can ruin good investment in great market
Take time to determine moral character, track record

What secrets sponsors don’t want passive investors to know

Hidden asset management fees
Treatment of bad debt
How distributions made

The pros and cons of being a passive investor in multifamily syndications

Professional edge (make more money working with expert)
Give up control, can’t exit if don’t like what’s happening

The benefit of investing in non-correlated assets like real estate

Drop in stock market unlikely to impact real estate
Reduces any single point of failure in portfolio

Brian’s advice for skeptical investors looking at multifamily real estate

Look at where world’s wealth made
Minimize risk with balanced portfolio

Connect with Brian Burke

Praxis Capital

Praxis Capital on Facebook

Praxis Capital on Twitter

Praxis Capital on Instagram

Resources

The Hands-Off Investor: An Insider’s Guide to Investing in Passive Real Estate Syndications by Brian Burke

Brian on Apartment Building Investing EP005

Download Michael’s Free Report—What’s the Best Investment: The Stock Market or Real Estate?

REady2Scale Mentoring Program

MB 222: Don’t Be a Syndicator, Scale a Syndication Business – With Ellie Perlman

Mon, 13 Jul 2020 05:00:00 -0400

In the world of startups, entrepreneurs take a lean approach early on with an eye to grow quickly. Ellie Perlman applied these principles to real estate, building and scaling a syndication business in a few short years. So, how do you shift from being a syndicator to managing a syndication business?

Ellie is the Founder and CEO of Blue Lake Capital, a real estate investing firm that specializes in value-add multifamily acquisition and management. She also leads REady2Scale, a mentoring program for aspiring multifamily syndicators, and hosts the REady2Scale Podcast. Ellie began her career as a commercial real estate lawyer and later transitioned to the role of property manager, overseeing properties worth more than $100M. She earned her MBA from the MIT Sloan School of Management.

On this episode of Apartment Building Investing, Ellie joins me to explain how growing up poor in Israel gave her the drive to succeed and share her journey from cleaning synagogues to earning an MBA from MIT. She discusses the decision to start her own real estate business, describing how multifamily syndication fulfilled her vision to both scale quickly and earn passive income. Listen in for Ellie’s insight on the magic of scaling a startup and get her advice on how to grow YOUR real estate business—even if you don’t have a budget!

Key Takeaways

How Ellie developed the drive to succeed

Cleaned synagogues as poor child in Israel to help family
Sent to youth village at 15, wanted better for own kids

What inspired Ellie to go to law school

Married at 18, working 3 jobs to provide for husband
Saw education as ticket out of ‘survival mode’

How Ellie developed an interest in real estate

Exposed to deals in international real estate department of law firm
Transitioned to property management to understand business side

What brought Ellie to the United States

Pursue MBA at MIT to learn how to start companies
Aunt had moved to US and achieved success

Ellie’s decision to go into business for herself

Desire to fulfill potential as self-made woman
Scarier NOT to try than to try and fail

Ellie’s insight on the power of believing in yourself

Causes to act in way that sets up for success
Changes other’s perception of who you are

Ellie’s big vision for building a real estate company

Reverse engineer plan based on net worth goal at age 50
Multifamily met requirements for scale, passive income

What Ellie would tell her younger self

Don’t listen to doubters + keep going
People project their own fear on you

How Ellie thinks about potential discrimination in real estate

Focus on what CAN change and improve self
Not productive to get stuck in victim mode

Why Ellie started a training program and podcast

Build relationships with potential investors
Learn something new to implement in business
Rewarding to see other people succeed

Why Ellie is an advocate for scaling your business

Burn out when try to do all on own
Magic in scaling to grow + grow quickly

Ellie’s advice for building and scaling a syndication business

Map out business want to create and define roles
Choose area of focus, partner or outsource rest

How to build a syndication business on a small budget

Hire intern through Handshake
Pay small stipend or offer equity

Connect with Ellie Perlman

Ellie’s Website

Email ellie@ellieperlman.com

REady2Scale Podcast

Blue Lake Capital

Resources

Join Michael’s Investor Incubator Mentoring Program

MB 221: Achieve BIG Things with Tiny Action – With Brandon Turner

Mon, 06 Jul 2020 05:00:00 -0400

Doing something monumental like moving your family across the ocean to Hawaii or buying a 100-unit apartment complex may feel overwhelming. But Brandon Turner has done both of those things, and he contends that any process is easy IF you break it down into a series of tiny actions that take five minutes or less.

Brandon is the Founder of Open Door Capital, Vice President of BiggerPockets and Cohost of The BiggerPockets Podcast. He owns more than 500 rental units totaling $20M and has dozens of rehabs under his belt. Brandon’s work has been featured in Forbes, Entrepreneur and Money Magazine, and he is the author of several books, including The Book on Rental Property Investing and How to Invest in Real Estate.

On this episode of the podcast, Brandon joins me to share his assessment of the impact of COVID-19 on real estate investing, explaining how we should adjust our underwriting in light of the pandemic. He walks us through his favorite investing strategies right now, describing the opportunities he sees in real estate over the next 10 years. Listen in to understand the marketing techniques Brandon uses to raise LOTS of money online and get his advice on developing a clear VISION of where you want to be—and taking tiny action each day to get there!

Key Takeaways

Brandon’s assessment of the impact of COVID

Depends on whether second round of virus triggers another shutdown
85% confident pandemic will be interesting memory in 6 months

How real estate investors should adjust their behavior right now

Less optimistic in underwriting (don’t count on raising rents in Year 1)
Good time to revisit fundamentals, be more conservative

The opportunities Brandon sees over the long term

Migration to South as more and more people reach retirement age
Invest in mobile home parks, senior living and low-income multifamily

How this economic crisis differs from the last recession

Last downturn CAUSED by shady practices in real estate
Less impact on real estate this time (except vacation rentals)

Brandon’s favorite real estate strategies right now

House hacking good for new investors
Rehab or value-add (BRRRR method)
Mobile home parks

Brandon’s insight around COVID’s impact on low-income earners

Still paying rent at mobile home parks
Government won’t allow economy to fail

BiggerPockets’ most successful marketing strategies

Build trust and credibility with content (blog, podcast)
Make money as software company, not education

How Brandon uses content marketing in his investing business

Build trust and credibility at scale with content
Leverage video to raise money, send thank you letters
Focus on growing Instagram audience (125K followers)

How Brandon architects his life around his family and business

Develop clear vision of success, know where want to be
Keep asking, ‘What’s the next little tiny step?’

Connect with Brandon Turner

Open Door Capital

Brandon on BiggerPockets

Brandon on Instagram

Resources

The Book on Rental Property Investing by Brandon Turner

Joe Fairless

Loom Video Messaging

Bryce Stewart on BiggerPockets Podcast EP276

Vivid Vision by Cameron Herold

Join Michael’s Investor Incubator Mentoring Program

MB 220: Affordable Housing by the Numbers – With Damian Bergamaschi

Mon, 29 Jun 2020 05:00:00 -0400

You may have heard the prediction that unemployment in the US could reach 30%, and that does sound scary. But what do those numbers really mean? And how would that worst-case scenario impact collections? What should we be concerned about as investors in affordable housing?

Damian Bergamaschi is the cofounder of Damris Capital, a money management firm that leverages data analysis to help its investors achieve financial freedom sooner. Damian leads Damris’ optimization research for all investment models and algorithms and serves as the portfolio manager of the firm’s real estate acquisitions.

On this episode of Apartment Building Investing, Damian joins me to explain how his obsession with data led to investments in commercial real estate. He discusses why affordable housing has been insulated from COVID-19, breaking down what the unemployment rate really means and how government subsidies have had a positive impact in the space. Listen in as Damian calculates projected collections in a worst-case scenario and find out why he is bullish on affordable housing as a reliable long-term investment.

Key Takeaways

The Damris Capital origin story

Idea to organize data, info from white papers
Test different asset classes by numbers

How Damian’s research led him to affordable housing

Devaluation of dollar = consistent long-term trend
Residential real estate most tax efficient way to invest indirectly in inflation
Add framework of Inflation Harvesting (layer on debt)

What we don’t understand about the unemployment rate

Many people have income despite being unemployed (e.g.: retirement, disability, etc.)
At 30% unemployment, 60% would still have income vs. 80% in normal circumstances

Why affordable housing is insulated from COVID-19

Government safety nets (stimulus checks, unemployment benefits)
More likely to pay for housing than discretionary expenses
Even in worst-case scenario, 70% collections projected

The adverse short-term impact COVID may have on affordable housing

Reductions for prepayment
Slightly lower collections
Credit card processing for online payments
Won’t raise rents for 12 to 18 months

Damian’s promising long-term outlook for affordable housing

Opportunity to raise rents at accelerated rate in 18 to 24 months
Consistent supply and demand in residential real estate
As cap rates contract, value of properties will expand

The cyclical nature of delinquencies and being paid up

Most caught up after tax return
Most delinquent after holidays

Why multifamily investors need to be thinking about September

Unemployment will start to hit caps (safety net goes away)
Renters may owe on taxes, not realizing UEB taxable

Connect with Damian Bergamaschi

Damris Capital

Resources

Damian’s Blog Post on Unemployment

Damian’s Blog Post on Mobile Home Park Investing

Damian’s Blog on Mobile Home Park Investing Performance Post-COVID

Inflation Harvesting

The Case-Shiller Home Price Index

US Bureau of Labor Statistics

Subprime Auto Loan Delinquency Statistics