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:

http://www.themichaelblank.com/session337/

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/

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/

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/

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/

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/

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/

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/

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/

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/

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/

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/

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/

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/

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/

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/

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/

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/

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/

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/

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/

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/

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/

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/

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/

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/

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

1. Lifestyle business
2. Buy or be bought
3. IPO

Curtis’ 4-step success formula for entrepreneurs

1. How much
2. By when
3. For what
4. 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

Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program

Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club

Access Michael’s Free Resources in the Freedom Vault 

Review the Podcast on iTunes

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 

Summit on the Summit 

Simon Sinek

Richard Bass

Michael on Facebook 

Michael on Instagram 

Michael on YouTube 

Michael on TikTok

Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group 

Podcast Show Notes

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

1. Dreaming about financial freedom
2. Getting educated (mentorship program)
3. Networking to shift mindset
4. 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

Get Tickets for Deal Maker Live

Buy Michael’s Syndicated Deal Analyzer 

Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program

Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club

Access Michael’s Free Resources in the Freedom Vault 

Review the Podcast on iTunes

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

Michael on Facebook 

Michael on Instagram 

Michael on YouTube 

Michael on TikTok

Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group 

Podcast Show Notes

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

Schedule a Call with Patrick

Resources

Get Tickets for Deal Maker Live

Buy Michael’s Ultimate Guide to Apartment Building Investing

Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program

Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club

Access Michael’s Free Resources in the Freedom Vault 

Review the Podcast on iTunes

Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank 

Persistence, Pivots and Game Changers: Turning Challenges into Opportunities by Patrick Grimes et al.

Michael on Facebook 

Michael on Instagram 

Michael on YouTube 

Michael on TikTok

Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group 

Podcast Show Notes

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

Get Tickets for Deal Maker Live

Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program

Download Michael’s Free Report—What's the Best Investment: The Stock Market or Real Estate? 

Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club

Access Michael’s Free Resources in the Freedom Vault 

Review the Podcast on iTunes

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

Michael on Facebook 

Michael on Instagram 

Michael on YouTube 

Michael on TikTok

Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group 

Podcast Show Notes

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

Get Tickets for Deal Maker Live

Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program

Access Michael’s Free Resources in the Freedom Vault 

Review the Podcast on iTunes

Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank 

The Art of the Deal by Donald J. Trump

Grant Cardone 

Brian Burke 

PowerForms

Michael on Facebook 

Michael on Instagram 

Michael on YouTube 

Michael on TikTok

Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group 

Podcast Show Notes

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 Instagram 

Follow Alex’s Journey on TikTok 

Follow Alex’s Journey on YouTube

Resources

Access Michael’s Free Resources in the Freedom Vault 

Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program

Review the Podcast on iTunes

Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank 

Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert T. Kiyosaki

Grant Cardone on Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing EP188

The Miracle Equation by Hal Elrod

Michael on Facebook 

Michael on Instagram 

Michael on YouTube 

Michael on TikTok

Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group 

Podcast Show Notes

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

Leverage Finance Software

Resources

Access Michael’s Free Resources in the Freedom Vault 

Be a Part of Michael’s Deal Maker’s Mastermind

Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program

Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club

Download Michael’s Free Report—What’s the Best Investment: The Stock Market or Real Estate?

Review the Podcast on iTunes

Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank 

Federal Solar Tax Credit

Build Back Better 

eConserve Multifamily Water Conservation Solutions

Michael on Facebook 

Michael on Instagram 

Michael on YouTube 

Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group 

Podcast Show Notes

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 LinkedIn

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 

Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program

Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club

Review the Podcast on iTunes [Text CONTEST to 66866]

Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank 

The 80/20 Rule on Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing EP289 

BiggerPockets

Michael on Facebook 

Michael on Instagram 

Michael on YouTube 

Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group 

Podcast Show Notes

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 YouTube 

Sterling Rhino on Facebook 

Sterling Rhino on LinkedIn 

Charging Forward Podcast

Resources

Get Tickets for Deal Maker Bootcamp

Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program

Join the Deal Maker’s Mastermind

Register for the Deal Maker Certification Program

Buy Michael’s Syndicated Deal Analyzer 

Access Michael’s Free Resources in the Freedom Vault

Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club

Review the Podcast on iTunes [Text CONTEST to 66866]

Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

ActiveCampaign

Michael on Facebook 

Michael on Instagram 

Michael on YouTube 

Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group 

Podcast Show Notes

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

Jerome’s Website 

Jerome on Twitter 

Jerome on Instagram 

Jerome on Facebook 

Jerome on YouTube

Resources

Get Tickets for Deal Maker Bootcamp

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

Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program

Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

Tai Lopez 

Grant Cardone on Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing EP188

Michael on Facebook 

Michael on Instagram 

Michael on YouTube 

Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group 

Podcast Show Notes

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

Register for Michael’s Deal Maker Bootcamp

Access Michael’s Deal Maker Certification

Join the Deal Maker Mastermind

Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program

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

GoBundance

BiggerPockets

Dave Meyer’s Data Deli on Instagram

Podcast Show Notes

Michael’s Website 

Michael on Facebook 

Michael on Instagram 

Michael on YouTube 

Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group 

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

1. Do what you say
2. Do your best
3. Make a difference
4. 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

Get Your Tickets for Deal Maker Live

Access Michael’s Deal Maker Certification

Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program

Download Free Resources from The Freedom Vault

Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club

Register for Michael’s Deal Maker Bootcamp

Join the Deal Maker Mastermind

Review the Podcast on iTunes

Uganda Counseling and Support Services

Syndicated Deal Analyzer

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

Consumer Price Index

Podcast Show Notes 

Michael’s Website 

Michael on Facebook 

Michael on Instagram 

Michael on YouTube 

Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group 

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

1. Cover minimum living expenses
2. Cover current living expenses
3. Replace income
4. 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

Aspiring Women Achieving More

Mandy on Instagram

Mandy on Facebook

Mandy on YouTube

Mandy on LinkedIn

Resources

Get Tickets for Deal Maker Bootcamp

Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program

Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club

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

Mint

Michael on Facebook 

Michael on Instagram 

Michael on YouTube 

Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group 

Podcast Show Notes

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 

Review the Podcast on Apple [Text CONTEST to 66866]

Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program 

Get Tickets for Deal Maker Bootcamp 

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

Bob Proctor

Michael on Facebook 

Michael on Instagram 

Michael on YouTube 

Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group 

Podcast Show Notes

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

1. Leverage mentor’s experience to avoid mistakes
2. 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 YouTube 

Networth Nurse on Instagram 

Networth Nurse on LinkedIn 

Networth Nurse on Facebook

Resources 

Get Tickets for Deal Maker Bootcamp 

Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program 

Register for Deal Maker Live

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 

BiggerPockets

Dave Ramsey

Michael on Facebook 

Michael on Instagram 

Michael on YouTube 

Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group 

Podcast Show Notes

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 

The Common Path to Uncommon Success: A Roadmap to Financial Freedom and Fulfillment by John Lee Dumas

Resources 

Get Tickets for Deal Maker Bootcamp 

Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program

Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club 

Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert T. Kiyosaki 

Hell Yeah or No: What’s Worth Doing by Derek Sivers 

CryptoDads 

Mutant Punks 

Mutant Cats 

HEAD DAO

NFTs on Fire Podcast 

Michael Hyatt’s Desire Zone

Michael on Facebook 

Michael on Instagram 

Michael on YouTube 

Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group 

Podcast Show Notes

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

1. Peer group (Deal Maker’s Mastermind)
2. Mentors who’ve done what you want
3. 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 

Register for Michael’s Deal Maker Bootcamp 

Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program

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

Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club

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 

Podcast Show Notes 

Michael’s Website 

Michael on Facebook 

Michael on Instagram 

Michael on YouTube 

Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group 

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 I by Brandon Turner and Brian Murray

The Multifamily Millionaire, Volume II by Brandon Turner and Brian Murray

Resources 

Find Out More About Michael’s Platform Builders Masterclass

Get Tickets for Deal Maker Bootcamp 

Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club

Download Michael’s Free Report—What's the Best Investment: The Stock Market or Real Estate?

Register for Deal Maker Live

Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program 

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 

Joe Fairless 

Grant Cardone 

Michael on Facebook 

Michael on Instagram 

Michael on YouTube 

Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group 

Podcast Show Notes

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

1. Make a difference
2. Do what you say
3. Do your best
4. Get stuff done

How to identify core values in your organization

1. Themes
2. Header
3. 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 

Radical Candor: Be a Kick-Ass Boss without Losing Your Humanity by Kim Scott

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

Register for Michael’s Deal Maker Bootcamp 

Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program

Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club

Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank 

Podcast Show Notes 

Michael’s Website 

Michael on Facebook 

Michael on Instagram 

Michael on YouTube 

Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group 

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 

Get Tickets for Deal Maker Bootcamp 

Access Michael’s Syndicated Deal Analyzer 

Download Michael’s Deal Maker Blueprint

Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program

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 

Carleton Sheets 

Michael on Facebook 

Michael on Instagram 

Michael on YouTube 

Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group 

Podcast Show Notes

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

1. Financial return
2. Social return
3. Environmental return

Connect with Camilla Jeffs 

The Introverted Investor

Camilla on Instagram

Camilla on LinkedIn

Camilla on YouTube

Camilla on TikTok

Resources 

Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club

Download Michael’s Free Report—What’s the Best Investment: The Stock Market or Real Estate?

Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program

Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

Michael on Facebook 

Michael on Instagram 

Michael on YouTube 

Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group 

Podcast Show Notes

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 

Register for Michael’s Platform Builders Masterclass

Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program

Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club

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

Michael on Facebook 

Michael on Instagram 

Michael on YouTube 

Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group 

Podcast Show Notes

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

The Jordan Harbinger Show 

Jordan’s Networking Course

Resources

Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program

Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club

Superhuman 

Dig Your Well Before You’re Thirsty: The Only Networking Book You’ll Ever Need by Harvey Mackay

Michael on Facebook 

Michael on Instagram 

Michael on YouTube 

Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group 

Podcast Show Notes

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 

Ronan at International Living

Resources

Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program

Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club

Access Michael’s Blueprint to Your First Multifamily Deal Training

International Living

What Is the Fideicomiso?

Michael on Facebook 

Michael on Instagram 

Michael on YouTube 

Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group

Podcast Show Notes

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

Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club

Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program

Access Michael’s Blueprint to Your First Multifamily Deal Training

Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

Books by J Scott

Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert T. Kiyosaki

Ashley Wilson

How to Win Friends & Influence People by Dale Carnegie

Michael’s Website 

Michael on Facebook 

Michael on Instagram 

Michael on YouTube 

Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group

Podcast Show Notes

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

GoBundance

Resources

Be a Part of Michael’s Deal Maker Mastermind

Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club

Entrepreneurs’ Organization

TIGER 21

Conscious Loving: The Journey to Co-Commitment by Gay & Kathlyn Hendricks

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

Michael’s Website 

Michael on Facebook 

Michael on Instagram 

Michael on YouTube 

Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group

Podcast Show Notes

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 <25% of median income

Connect with Andrew Cushman

Vantage Point Acquisitions

Vantage Point on YouTube

Vantage Point on Facebook

Vantage Point on Instagram

Vantage Point on LinkedIn

Resources

Explore Michael’s Deal Maker Certification Training

Access Michael’s Platform Builders Masterclass

Learn About Michael’s Mentoring Program

Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club

Kevin Bupp on Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing EP281

Reonomy

Brandon Turner at Open Door Capital

Podcast Show Notes

Michael’s Website 

Michael on Facebook 

Michael on Instagram 

Michael on YouTube 

Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group

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

Explore Michael’s Deal Maker Certification Training

Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program

Register for Michael’s Platform Builders Masterclass

Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club

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

Podcast Show Notes 

Michael’s Website 

Michael on Facebook 

Michael on Instagram 

Michael on YouTube 

Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group

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

1. Clarity
2. Commitment
3. 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

1. Don’t think people care
2. Embarrassed by story
3. 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

What Are You Made Of? Podcast

Blooprinted

Resources

Access Michael’s Blueprint to Your First Multifamily Deal Training

Learn About Michael’s Mentoring Program

Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club

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

Podcast Show Notes

Michael’s Website 

Michael on Facebook 

Michael on Instagram 

Michael on YouTube 

Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group 

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

Sunrise Capital Investors

Real Estate Investing for Cashflow Podcast

Resources

Podcast Show Notes

Access Michael’s Blueprint to Your First Multifamily Deal Training

Learn About Michael’s Mentoring Program

Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club

Kevin Bupp on Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing EP054

TLOxp

LexisNexis

CoStar

Reonomy

Hunter Thompson on Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing EP087

Podcast Show Notes

Michael’s Website 

Michael on Facebook 

Michael on Instagram 

Michael on YouTube 

Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group 

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

Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program

Download Michael’s Free Report—What’s the Best Investment: The Stock Market or Real Estate?

Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club 

Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

Robert Kiyosaki

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

Podcast Show Notes

Michael’s Website 

Michael on Facebook 

Michael on Instagram 

Michael on YouTube 

Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group 

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

Register for Michael’s Platform Builders Masterclass

Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program

Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club

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

Entrepreneurs’ Organization

The Miracle Morning: The Not-So-Obvious Secret Guaranteed to Transform Your Life (Before 8AM) by Hal Elrod

GoBundance

The Millionaire Next Door: The Surprising Secrets of America’s Wealthy by Thomas J. Stanley and William D. Danko

CASHFLOW Board Game 

Podcast Show Notes

Michael’s Website 

Michael on Facebook 

Michael on Instagram 

Michael on YouTube 

Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group 

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

Learn About Michael’s Mentoring Program

Access the Recordings from Deal Maker Live

Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club

Tony Robbins on Work-Life Integration

Rule 506(c)

Rule 506(b)

Podcast Show Notes

Michael’s Website 

Michael on Facebook 

Michael on Instagram 

Michael on YouTube 

Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group 

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

Access the Recordings from Deal Maker Live

Register for Michael’s Platform Builders Masterclass

Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club

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

Investor Girl Britt

Podcast Show Notes

Michael’s Website 

Michael on Facebook 

Michael on Instagram 

Michael on YouTube 

Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group 

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

JB2 Investments

JB2 on Facebook 

Jonathan on Twitter

Jonathan on LinkedIn

Resources

Register for Michael’s Platform Builders Masterclass

Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program

Enter the Financial Freedom Podcast Launch Contest

The Tax Stack Strategy: The Magic of Paying Less Tax Using Real Estate by Jonathan Barr

Upwork

Podcast Show Notes

Michael’s Website 

Michael on Facebook 

Michael on Instagram 

Michael on YouTube 

Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group 

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

Enter to Win the Financial Freedom Podcast Launch Contest

Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

Explore Michael’s Deal Maker Certification Training

Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program

Financial Freedom Hall of Fame

Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert T. Kiyosaki

Podcast Show Notes 

Michael’s Website 

Michael on Facebook 

Michael on Instagram 

Michael on YouTube 

Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group 

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

Register for Deal Maker Live

Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program

Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club

Podcast Show Notes

Michael’s Website 

Michael on Facebook 

Michael on Instagram 

Michael on YouTube 

Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group 

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 by Chad Williams

SEAL of God on Instagram

Resources

Register for Deal Maker Live

Sign Up for Chad’s Deal Maker Live Adventure

Access Michael’s Free Report—What’s the Best Investment: The Stock Market or Real Estate?

Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club

Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program

Download Michael’s Free eBook: The Secret to Raising Money for Your First Apartment Building

Scott Helvenston

Podcast Show Notes

Michael’s Website 

Michael on Facebook 

Michael on Instagram 

Michael on YouTube 

Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group 

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

Asset Management Mastery Podcast

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

Register for Deal Maker Live

Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program

Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club

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

Trello

DiSC Assessment

Podcast Show Notes

Michael’s Website 

Michael on Facebook 

Michael on Instagram 

Michael on YouTube 

Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group 

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

Bringing Value, Solving Problems and Leaving a Legacy by Tim Lyons et al.

Resources

Invest in Michael’s Deal Maker Certification Training

Register for Deal Maker Live

Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program

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

Jim Rohn

Zig Ziglar

BiggerPockets

ActiveCampaign

Real Estate Guys Radio

Podcast Show Notes

Michael’s Website 

Michael on Facebook 

Michael on Instagram 

Michael on YouTube 

Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group 

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

Upstate Commercial Apartment Investor Group Meetup

Email gary@roccapitalgroup.com

Email john@roccapitalgroup.com

Resources

Register for Deal Maker Live

Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program

Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club

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

REIA

Meetup

Podcast Show Notes 

Michael’s Website 

Michael on Facebook 

Michael on Instagram 

Michael on YouTube 

Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group 

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

Register for Deal Maker Live

Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program

Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club

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

Podcast Show Notes 

Michael’s Website 

Michael on Facebook 

Michael on Instagram 

Michael on YouTube 

Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group 

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

Register for Deal Maker Live

Access Michael’s Free Blueprint to Your First Multifamily Deal Training

Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program

Watch the Replay of Michael’s Platform Builders Masterclass

Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert T. Kiyosaki

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

Podcast Show Notes 

Michael’s Website 

Michael on Facebook 

Michael on Instagram 

Michael on YouTube 

Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group 

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

1. View challenges as opportunities
2. Ultra-focused on doing 1 thing really well
3. Super-clear on what they want
4. Know their purpose
5. 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

The Investor Mindset Podcast

Investor Mindset on Facebook

Steven on Facebook

Steven on LinkedIn

Steven on Instagram

Steven on Twitter

Resources

Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club

Register for Deal Maker Live

Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program

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

Podcast Show Notes 

Michael’s Website 

Michael on Facebook 

Michael on Instagram 

Michael on YouTube 

Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group 

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

1. Lifestyle first (create freedom vision)
2. Reduce risk
3. 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

Lifestyle Investor Podcast

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

Register for Deal Maker Live

Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program

Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club

Robert Kiyosaki

Tony Robbins

Love Justice International

Michael on Lifestyle Investor EP028

Podcast Show Notes 

Michael’s Website 

Michael on Facebook 

Michael on Instagram 

Michael on YouTube 

Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group