Blue Gems Podcast

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Co-Hosted by Aidan and JB, the Blue Gems Podcast takes a deep dive into Real Estate Investing with an emphasis on Short Term Rentals. We bring on active investors to share "Blue Gems" that will help you scale your real estate business as far as you're wil

Aidan Groll and JB Bullock


    • Oct 3, 2024 LATEST EPISODE
    • monthly NEW EPISODES
    • 44m AVG DURATION
    • 69 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from Blue Gems Podcast

    Innovation and the Future of AI in Guest Communication feat. Sam Dundas of Besty AI

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 3, 2024 45:54


    In this episode, Aidan and JB sit down with Sam Dundas of Besty AI to discuss innovations in AI-driven guest communications for short-term rental management. The conversation delves into the functionalities and impacts of Besty AI, focusing on guest communications and review management while anticipating future integrations and enhancements. They also explore the dynamics of the short-term rental market, challenges in raising funds, operational strategies, and the impacts of AI and technology on industry practices. The episode offers insights into aligning AI tools with existing property management software, and addresses potential threats and opportunities within the evolving landscape of short-term rentals. Connect with Sam: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samueldundas/ Let's connect! ► Blue Gems Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bluegemsgroup/   ► JB's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jbinvested/ ► Aidan's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aidangroll/ ► Blue Gems STR Management: https://bluegemsmgmt.co ► STR Meetup: https://bluegemsgroup.com Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction and Greetings 01:05 Overview of Besty AI 03:10 Target Audience and Use Cases 04:41 Balancing AI and Human Interaction 06:32 Additional Features and Innovations 10:58 Founder's Journey and Background 14:43 Raising Venture Capital 21:21 Allocating Capital and Future Plans 23:41 The Role of AI in Property Management 25:46 Market Saturation and Consolidation 28:53 Importance of Brand and Partnerships 33:43 Daily Life of an AI Startup Co-Founder 37:38 Future of Short-Term Rentals 42:03 Final Thoughts and Advice *None of this is meant to be specific investment advice, it's for entertainment purposes only.

    Building a Real Estate Empire feat. Casey Quinn of City Life Residential

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 22, 2024 55:25


    Join us for an inspiring conversation with Casey Quinn, co-founder of City Life Residential. Learn how Casey turned getting fired from his corporate job into an opportunity to dominate the real estate game. Discover his dynamic journey from CPA to real estate mogul, his partnership with a former real estate agent, and their incredible growth to over $100 million in assets. Casey shares invaluable insights on scaling businesses, the importance of happiness and culture in the workplace, the power of 'who not how' in hiring, and the pivotal role of accountability. Don't miss his practical tips on starting new ventures, tackling business constraints, and the significance of understanding key financial metrics. Plus, hear Casey's thoughts on navigating the current economic landscape and his advice on keeping as much real estate as possible! Connect with Casey: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caseyryanquinn/ Let's connect! ► Blue Gems Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bluegemsgroup/   ► JB's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jbinvested/ ► Aidan's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aidangroll/ ► Blue Gems STR Management: https://bluegemsmgmt.co ► STR Meetup: https://bluegemsgroup.com Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction and Guest Background 00:39 Building City Life Residential 01:14 Scaling Multiple Businesses 02:12 Real Estate Investment Strategies 04:48 Corporate Life to Entrepreneurship 06:19 Importance of Hard Work and Persistence 08:20 Creating a Positive Work Culture 12:32 Implementing EOS for Business Success 20:10 Handling Tough Conversations 27:52 The Importance of Clear Expectations in Hiring 29:00 Onboarding: Setting Up for Success 30:37 The Cost of Employee Turnover 31:00 Balancing Multiple Successful Businesses 32:28 The 'Who Not How' Philosophy 33:30 Investing in the Right People 39:54 Hiring Strategies for New Companies 43:39 Common Constraints in Business 46:17 Key Financial Metrics to Monitor 50:17 A Day in the Life of Casey 53:43 Final Thoughts and Advice *None of this is meant to be specific investment advice, it's for entertainment purposes only.

    Revolutionizing STR Design feat. Mark Lumpkin of STR Cribs

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 1, 2024 37:23


    In this episode of the Blue Gems Podcast, hosts interview Mark Lumpkin, the founder of STR Cribs, a licensed design and renovation company that specializes in short-term rentals. Mark discusses the company's unique approach to transforming properties into standout vacation rentals with eye-catching amenities and designs. He shares insights into the importance of original design, elevating guest experiences, and how to stay ahead in a competitive market. Mark also opens up about his career journey, personal experiences with short-term rentals, and the evolution of the hospitality industry. Listeners will learn valuable tips on how to increase ROI through thoughtful renovations and strategic market positioning. Connect with Mark: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-lumpkin-84b173142/ Let's connect! ► Blue Gems Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bluegemsgroup/   ► JB's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jbinvested/ ► Aidan's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aidangroll/ ► Blue Gems STR Management: https://bluegemsmgmt.co ► STR Meetup: https://bluegemsgroup.com Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to the Blue Gems Podcast 00:23 What is STR Cribs? 01:07 Garage Conversion Success Story 02:13 Mark's Journey into STR Renovations 03:53 Background Before STRs 05:52 Designing for Short Term Rentals 07:30 Creating Unique Guest Experiences 14:14 High ROI Amenities 17:20 Future Trends in STR Design 19:05 Addressing Market Saturation 20:32 Common Mistakes by Investors 22:45 The Importance of STR Design Strategy 28:15 How to Work with STR Cribs 33:12 Mark's Personal STR Portfolio 35:02 Final Thoughts and Contact Information *None of this is meant to be specific investment advice, it's for entertainment purposes only.

    Unlocking Airbnb Profitability with Data Analysis feat. John Bianchi

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 25, 2024 53:21


    John Bianchi, renowned for his expertise in Airbnb data analytics, joins the Blue Gems podcast to discuss his unique process for identifying profitable Airbnb properties. Bianchi, who has successfully analyzed and selected over 140 cash-flowing properties for Techvestor, the largest short-term rental investment fund in America, shares his insights on training, free resources, and the importance of value stacking. He also delves into the challenges faced by new investors, the significance of market data, and how to differentiate properties to attract specific demographics like bachelorette parties. Bianchi offers a detailed perspective on the operational considerations in property management and emphasizes his mission to prevent investors from purchasing unprofitable properties. Connect with John: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-bianchi-245608a6/ Let's connect! ► Blue Gems Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bluegemsgroup/   ► JB's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jbinvested/ ► Aidan's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aidangroll/ ► Blue Gems STR Management: https://bluegemsmgmt.co ► STR Meetup: https://bluegemsgroup.com Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Blue Gems Podcast 00:27 John Bianchi's Journey and Expertise 01:11 The Importance of Data in Airbnb Investments 02:43 Challenges and Solutions in Property Investment 07:05 Breaking into the Airbnb Space 10:27 High-Level Overview of Investment Process 13:20 Market Inefficiencies and Strategic Acquisitions 20:02 Operational Considerations and Market Selection 21:35 Tools and Software for Market Analysis 26:24 Comparing Portfolio Performance with Pricelabs 26:49 Challenges with KeyData's Averaged Data 27:30 Using Average Data for Revenue Management 28:00 Understanding Acquisition vs. Pricing Data 28:37 The Value of Adding Amenities 30:16 The Concept of Value Stacking 35:34 Experience Premium in Airbnb 37:04 Bachelorette and Bachelor Themed Homes 45:34 Common Mistakes by New Investors 47:16 White Glove Service for Airbnb Investors 50:56 Final Thoughts on Airbnb as a Business *None of this is meant to be specific investment advice, it's for entertainment purposes only.

    From 0 to 300: Growing a Massive Airbnb Portfolio feat. Syed Lateef

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 24, 2024 57:24


    In this episode of the Blue Gems podcast, Syed discusses the importance of learning and taking action, investing locally, and avoiding trendy markets. He shares his journey of managing 300 Airbnb units, operational strategies, and overcoming challenges. Syed also highlights his focus on scale, team management, and future plans for growth.  Top takeaways from this episode include: 1) Balance Learning and Action: Learn from YouTube and Instagram but prioritize taking action over endless preparation. Acting on limited knowledge can be more beneficial than over-preparing. 2) Invest Locally: Focus on investing in your local market where you have the most knowledge and can leverage your network. Avoid getting distracted by trending markets that might not be sustainable. 3) Consistent Growth Mindset: Continuously evolve your strategies, learn from mistakes, and adapt to market changes for sustained success. Follow Syed online: https://www.instagram.com/syedbnb/  Let's connect! ► Blue Gems Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bluegemsgroup/   ► JB's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jbinvested/ ► Aidan's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aidangroll/ ► Blue Gems STR Management: https://bluegemsmgmt.co ► STR Meetup: https://bluegemsgroup.com Timestamps: 00:00 - Intro 00:44 - Syed Lateef's business background. 04:13 - First Arbitrage Units: Initial success and scaling. 10:12 - Managing the business during the pandemic. 16:35 - Focusing on local markets. 33:34 - Handling inventory and logistics. 36:42 - Prioritizing revenue growth. 40:33 - Key takeaways from scaling the business. 52:06 - Exploring personal branding and new revenue streams. 53:33 - Building and leveraging a personal brand. 56:51 - Where to Find Syed. *None of this is meant to be specific investment advice, it's for entertainment purposes only.

    How to Build a Business That Runs Without You feat. Steve Rozenberg

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 17, 2024 63:52


    In this episode of the Blue Gems podcast, the focus is on building successful businesses with Steve Rosenberg. Steve shares three crucial aspects for business success, the importance of leadership, creating systems over people-focused operations, and maintaining a forward-thinking mindset to ensure business growth and sustainability. Top takeaways from this episode include: 1) Focus on the Essentials of Business: Emphasize monetization (sales and marketing), systemization (creating efficient systems), and duplication (training and scaling with a capable team). 2) Mindset and Leadership: Successful businesses start with the right mindset and strong leadership. Leaders must inspire and create a vision that their team can rally behind while also holding themselves accountable. 3) Importance of Creating Memories: Beyond financial success, building a business should provide the freedom to create meaningful memories with loved ones, as these moments are invaluable and irreplaceable. Follow Steve online: https://www.instagram.com/rozenbergsteve/ Let's connect! ► Blue Gems Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bluegemsgroup/   ► JB's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jbinvested/ ► Aidan's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aidangroll/ ► Blue Gems STR Management: https://bluegemsmgmt.co ► STR Meetup: https://bluegemsgroup.com Timestamps: 00:00 - Intro 02:32 - Steve's Background: Upbringing and motivation. 07:26 - Lessons from property management. 08:12 - Transitioning from investor to business owner. 23:41 - Key components for business success. 36:18 - Generating consistent business growth. 48:00 - Continual growth and self-improvement. 52:30 - Navigating Business Partnerships: Clear communication and roles. 57:05 - Developing a success-oriented mindset. 59:00 - Importance of being a lifelong learner. *None of this is meant to be specific investment advice, it's for entertainment purposes only.

    Innovative Approaches to Short-Term Rental Management feat. Sief Khafagi

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 12, 2024 45:33


    In this episode of the Blue Gems podcast, the team dives into the world of short-term rental investments with Sief from Techvestor. They discuss the importance of location, advanced tools, and data-driven decisions in driving revenue and occupancy growth. Sief also shares insights on transitioning from tech to real estate, the benefits of vertical integration, and optimizing revenue management. Top takeaways from this episode include:  1) Leverage Expertise and Tools: Apply deep industry knowledge and advanced tools to increase revenue, ADR, and occupancy growth in your short-term rentals. 2) Simplify Investment and Operations: Invest in a short-term rental fund to enjoy the benefits of rental properties without managing them yourself. Let experts handle acquisition, design, and daily operations. 3) Optimize with Data and Performance: Use proprietary data and thorough market analysis to select top-performing properties and maximize returns on your investment. Follow Sief online: https://www.instagram.com/siefkhafagi/ Let's connect! ► Blue Gems Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bluegemsgroup/   ► JB's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jbinvested/ ► Aidan's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aidangroll/ ► Blue Gems STR Management: https://bluegemsmgmt.co ► STR Meetup: https://bluegemsgroup.com Timestamps: 00:00 - Intro 03:03 - Sief's background and experience at Facebook 05:38 - Techvestor's mission and growth challenges 08:08 - Current state of the portfolio and future goals 13:34 - Importance of data understanding 22:02 - Positioning as a leader in short-term rentals 23:00 - Scaling operations and future plans 29:03 - Positioning as an industry leader 35:41 - Future of short-term rentals 36:21 - Data-driven investment strategies 44:41 - Understanding fund investment *None of this is meant to be specific investment advice, it's for entertainment purposes only.

    Strategies for Sustainable Success In Hotel Investments feat. Sujay Mehta

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 19, 2023 51:53


    In this episode, we dive into the intricate world of hotel investments with a focus on acquisitions, financing, and strategic partnerships. The discussion unveils practical insights into navigating the hotel investment landscape, emphasizing the significance of strategic acquisitions, innovative financing options, and the power of partnerships in optimizing hotel operations. The conversation is rich with tactical advice, offering listeners a comprehensive blueprint to navigate the complexities of hotel investments successfully, from making compelling offers to mastering the art of hotel syndications. Top 3 Takeaways from the Podcast: Strategic Acquisitions: Learn the essentials of unlocking hotel deals, focusing on practical strategies to identify and acquire lucrative hotel investment opportunities. Innovative Financing: Discover various financing avenues, including seller financing and other creative tactics, to facilitate smooth and successful hotel acquisitions. Power of Partnerships: Gain insights into leveraging partnerships and syndications to optimize hotel operations, enhance investment strategies, and drive success in the hotel investment realm. Follow Sujay online: https://www.instagram.com/Sujmehta/ Let's connect! ► Blue Gems Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bluegemsgroup/ ► JB's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jbinvested/ ► Aidan's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aidangroll/ ► Blue Gems STR Management: https://bluegemsmgmt.co ► STR Meetup: https://bluegemsgroup.com Timestamps: [00:00:00] Intro [05:00:00] Transition into the Hotel Investment Space [10:00:00] Strategies for Acquiring Hotels and Properties [15:00:00] Discussion on Financing Options and Seller Financing [20:00:00] Insights into Hotel Syndications and Partnerships [25:00:00] Challenges and Learning Experiences in Hotel Investments [30:00:00] Advice on Making Offers and Securing Deals [35:00:00] Closing Thoughts and Final Pieces of Advice *None of this is meant to be specific investment advice, it's for entertainment purposes only.

    Empowering Women in STRs: Breaking Barriers and Building Empires feat. Stacey St. John

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 5, 2023 37:44


    In this episode of the Blue Gems podcast, we dive deep into the world of short-term rentals (STR) with Stacy St. John, a seasoned STR investor and property manager. Stacy shares her journey from starting in the real estate space to now owning 10 properties and managing a total of 26. She emphasizes the importance of understanding one's goals and vision before diving into the STR business. Stacy also highlights the significance of researching and choosing the right market, and the value of establishing strong relationships in the industry. Additionally, she touches upon the challenges and rewards of managing client funds and the importance of transparency in the property management space. Top takeaways from this episode include: 1) Establish Clear Buying Criteria: Before jumping into the STR market, it's essential to outline your goals and vision for your business. Understand what you want from your rental and how it aligns with your life goals. 2) Research is Key: Once you have a clear vision, research potential markets that fit your criteria. Dive deep into understanding the dynamics of each market and evaluate each deal from an investment standpoint. 3) Transparency in Property Management: In the world of property management, transparency is crucial. Whether it's managing client funds or maintaining quality standards, being open and honest with clients can set you apart in the industry. Follow Stacey online: https://www.instagram.com/stacey_st.john/ Let's connect! ► Blue Gems Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bluegemsgroup/ ► JB's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jbinvested/ ► Aidan's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aidangroll/ ► Blue Gems STR Management: https://bluegemsmgmt.co ► STR Meetup: https://bluegemsgroup.com Timestamps: [00:00:00] Intro [00:01:47] Getting into short-term rentals. [00:05:29] Ugly properties turned market opportunities. [00:10:02] How did you do it? [00:14:43] Concierge service for short-term rentals. [00:20:23] Handling financial reporting correctly. [00:24:10] Transparency in property management. [00:32:39] Short-term rental advice. [00:34:12] Different acquisition strategies. [00:38:44] Finding a mentor for success. *None of this is meant to be specific investment advice, it's for entertainment purposes only.

    From Poker Pro to Real Estate Investor

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 23, 2023 37:26


    In this episode of the Blue Gems podcast, we dive deep into the inspiring journey of JB Bullock, the co-founder of Blue Gems. From his early fascination with real estate in middle school to his professional poker career, JB shares how he transitioned into the real estate world during the COVID-19 pandemic. He discusses the importance of taking action, even if imperfect, and how he scaled from zero to 44 units in just under two years using none of his own money. Top three takeaways: The significance of building relationships and trust when raising private capital for scaling in real estate. The value of partnerships, especially with complementary skill sets, in achieving rapid growth and success. The importance of balancing personal life with business, and how reframing societal norms can lead to a fulfilling partnership both in business and marriage. Follow JB online: https://www.instagram.com/jbinvested/ Let's connect! ► Blue Gems Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bluegemsgroup/ ► JB's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jbinvested/ ► Aidan's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aidangroll/ ► Blue Gems STR Management: https://bluegemsmgmt.co ► STR Meetup: https://bluegemsgroup.com Timestamps: 00:00:00 Intro [00:01:09] Real estate journey during COVID. [00:04:33] Proof of concept in real estate. [00:07:17] Full-time professional poker player. [00:12:45] Raising private capital and partnerships. [00:14:29] Scaling through raising private capital. [00:19:55] Visionary vs. Integrator [00:23:12] Defying societal expectations. [00:26:14] Time in the game. [00:31:19] Losing the essence of hospitality. [00:34:57] Personal goals and travel. *None of this is meant to be specific investment advice, it's for entertainment purposes only.

    From Banker to Business Owner: A Journey of Entrepreneurship feat. Fouad Bazzi

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 3, 2023 33:47


    Shownotes: On this episode of the Blue Gems podcast, we spoke with Fouad Bazzi, the founder and owner of Crescent Retreats. Fouad shares his journey of opening gourmet restaurants and differentiating himself in a saturated market. He emphasizes the importance of diving into the data and understanding the supply and demand in the industry. Fouad also discusses his transition from a banking career to owning vacation rental properties on the West Coast, including Scottsdale, Phoenix, and Huntington Beach. He reveals his latest venture in the Florida market, just miles away from Disney World. Tune in to hear Fouad's inspiring story and his insights on building a successful business. Follow Fouad online: https://www.instagram.com/fouadbazzi_airbnb/ Let's connect! ► Blue Gems Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bluegemsgroup/ ► Aidan's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aidangroll/ ► JB's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jbinvested/ ► Blue Gems Management: https://bluegemsmgmt.co ► STR Meetup: https://bluegemsgroup.com Timestamps: 00:00:00 Intro 00:04:20 Importance of mentorship and education 00:05:11 Mastermind groups are valuable 00:14:03 Differentiate and compete on quality 00:14:20 Maximizing revenue through property utilization 00:22:11 Build relationships for raising capital 00:27:47 Short-term rental market is growing 00:28:04 Embrace nomadic lifestyle, know your market 00:32:28 Abundance mindset fosters connection. *None of this is meant to be specific investment advice, it's for entertainment purposes only.

    Using Data to Make Informed Investment Decisions, feat. Kenny Bedwell

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 1, 2023 37:39


    Shownotes: Coming from the STR Investor side, Kenneth Bedwell felt the struggle of finding new markets to invest in. With a smaller budget, it was hard to find a good market that didn't break the bank and this inspired Kenneth to create a data comparison formula that originally wasn't going to be shared with anyone other than some of Kenneth's close connections in the STR world. He has some good friends though, and they pushed him to turn his spreadsheets into a whole platform. As a result of this, we now have STR Insights, a data platform that is the only place you can compare market data side by side to figure out the next market to invest in.  Knowing all that he does about data, Kenneth shares a lot of insight on markets across the country. He tells us what markets he would invest in right now (and one that he is) along with his opinions on what has to go into the decision of investing in a new market. Follow Kenneth online: ► Kenneth's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kenny_bedwell/ ► STR Insights Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strinsights/ ► Facebook Group, The STR Data Host: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1242310879999732/ Let's connect! ► Blue Gems Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bluegemsgroup/ ► Aidan's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aidangroll/ ► JB's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jbinvested/ ► Blue Gems Management: https://bluegemsmgmt.co ► STR Meetup: https://bluegemsgroup.com Timestamps: [00:00] Intro [01:00] STR Insights and what it is [01:46] What was Kenneth doing before STR Insights [05:24] Sourcing the data and how it's shared  [09:28] Data points on amenities  [10:53] Kenneth's take on the luxury STR market  [12:36] If Kenneth owned a property management company, what would he do? [14:09] What is a reasonable variance between STR Insight data and actual revenue? [17:07] What markets to look at for MTRs [18:19] Blue Gems Management [18:46] Mistakes new investors make when underwriting a STR [23:00] Taxes on STRs [24:05] What three markets would Kenneth invest in right now? [26:41] If I wanted to gross 200k or more, where should I invest? [28:50] Kissimmee and Davenport [30:48] Kenneth's opinion on boutique hotels  [32:42] Number one piece of advice for a new STR investor [33:59] Where is the STR market going in 2024 [35:21] One last blue gem *None of this is meant to be specific investment advice, it's for entertainment purposes only.

    How to Rank Number One on Airbnb's Search Results, feat. Daniel Rusteen

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 20, 2023 38:42


    From both the guest side and the host side, Daniel Rusteen's experiences in the STR space have helped him create great strategies for optimizing your Airbnb. A pro in the field, Daniel coaches other STR investors to supercharge their STR properties. In this episode, he is sharing the importance of running your STRs like a business with two main points: using dynamic pricing and direct booking. Dynamic pricing tools are a must and while sometimes there's a learning curve, it can be a game changer. Building out your online presence off of the Airbnb platform by using direct bookings can also change the game for STR business owners.  Daniel has been a long term guest of mid- and short term rentals, and has a great perspective to share without listeners on things to think of if you want to get into MTRs. Many things that short term renters will overlook become nuisances to mid-term renters. You don't want to miss this episode of Blue Gems, so go ahead and give it a listen! Follow Daniel online: ► Website: https://optimizemyairbnb.com/ ► Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwKwfQEYlbTCUynJHqjDmUA ► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/optimizemyairbnb/?hl=en Let's connect! ► Blue Gems Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bluegemsgroup/ ► Aidan's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aidangroll/ ► JB's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jbinvested/ ► Blue Gems Management: https://bluegemsmgmt.co ► STR Meetup: https://bluegemsgroup.com Timestamps: [00:00] Intro [01:00] Who is Daniel? [02:14] Running your STRs as a business [04:02] Optimize My BnB [05:45] Getting your review count higher and booking online [09:03] Tools and software Daniel uses to run BnBs like a business [12:36] Daniel's book and potential titles [15:33] The difference between STRs and vacation rentals  [16:27] Mid-term rentals [17:31] What Daniel looks for as a guest in a MTR [20:34] Reviews for STRs vs. MTRs [21:44] Blue Gems Management  [22:12] Daniel's lifestyle of living in MTRs and STRs: pros and cons [27:37] A piece of advice for a new STR investor [29:19] Where is the market going in 2024? [35:24] One last blue gem *None of this is meant to be specific investment advice, it's for entertainment purposes only.

    Conservative Investing: Managing Debt and Leveraging Carefully, feat. Julie Gates

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 18, 2023 39:16


    Welcome to this episode of Blue Gems! In today's show, we have a special guest, Julie Gates, a seasoned real estate investor and agent based in Savannah, GA. With over two decades of experience in the field, Julie has navigated through multiple cycles in the ever-changing real estate market. Julie's journey began in 2004 when she and her husband started investing in commercial multi-family properties. Despite the challenges posed by the 2008 crash, they persevered and adapted their strategy, transitioning into single-family homes. It was during this time that Julie had a fateful encounter with Zeona McIntyre, a previous guest on our show, who inspired her to venture into the world of furnished rentals. Embracing this new direction, Julie expanded her portfolio and founded a property management company. Today, she not only manages her own properties but also handles properties for other investors. As an agent, Julie guides clients through the entire sales cycle, offering comprehensive support from purchasing to management and everything in between. Julie's real estate portfolio in the low country of Georgia is truly diverse. She has a mix of long-term, mid-term, and short-term rentals, catering to various market demands. Additionally, she has ventured into small multi-family properties and even established a boutique hotel. Join us as we delve into Julie Gates' remarkable journey, learning from her experiences, insights, and strategies for success in the real estate industry. Whether you're a seasoned investor or just starting out, this episode promises to be an informative and inspiring discussion you won't want to miss! Follow Julie online: ► Savannah Property Management - sidwashere.com ► Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sidwashere912/ Let's connect! ► Blue Gems Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bluegemsgroup/ ► Aidan's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aidangroll/ ► JB's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jbinvested/ ► Blue Gems Management: https://bluegemsmgmt.co ► STR Meetup: https://bluegemsgroup.com Timestamps: [00:00] Intro [01:09] Julie's background in real estate  [03:06] The biggest lesson Julie learned from 2004  [06:04] When did Julie shift to rentals? [08:37] Julie's opinion on the current market  [11:14] Julie's current portfolio  [14:00] Who typically stays at mid term rentals? [16:44] Percentage of OTAs and Directs  [19:53] Managing mid term rentals [23:51] In house maintenance  [26:29] Blue Gems Management  [26:57] What's the going rate to manage a mid term rental? [29:47] Biggest piece of advice for new real estate investors  [32:47] Where is the mid term rental market going in 2024? [34:47] One last blue gem *None of this is meant to be specific investment advice, it's for entertainment purposes only.

    Maximizing Tax Deductions for Short-Term Rental Businesses, feat Billy Withers

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 13, 2023 29:29


    On today's episode of Blue Gems we're welcoming Billy Withers, a short term rental tax strategist. He's been in the field for 10 years total, focusing on short term rental investors for the past 5 years. When you're just starting out as a STR investor it's important to have a tax strategist to make sure you reap the tax benefits and avoid a huge tax bill at the end of the year. Billy talks about things STR investors need to watch out for when they are thinking about their taxes. He is getting into the laws, details, and loopholes that many normal tax strategists won't be able to tell you.  To protect yourself from a dreaded tax bill, it's important to build yourself a tax team that can give you good financial advice. Billy shares the best way to build out your tax dream team, from what to look for to who you need behind your back. A tax strategist may cost a couple grand up front, but they will save you tons of money in the long run. If you want to know what you need to do as a client of a tax strategist, Billy also shares how the client side of things work. Billy closes out our episode with two blue gems you don't want to miss that will help an STR investor who may be feeling inexperienced in the realm of tax strategy. Follow Billy online: ► Website - https://summitats.com/ ► Email - hello@ats.com ► LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/billywitherstax/ Let's connect! ► Blue Gems Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bluegemsgroup/ ► Aidan's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aidangroll/ ► JB's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jbinvested/ ► Blue Gems Management: https://bluegemsmgmt.co ► STR Meetup: https://bluegemsgroup.com Timestamps: [00:00] Intro [01:08] Billy and his background [03:17] Why should you have a tax strategist? [04:52] Why did Billy focus on STRs? [07:43] Differences between a long term rental and short term rentals with taxes [08:50] What qualifies as passive? [10:46] The short and long term benefits on depreciation  [12:42] Changes in tax laws in 2023-24 [13:50] What is a cost segregation study? [15:31] The steps of building out a tax team  [19:25] What can you expect to pay for tax consulting? [20:44] Blue Gems Management [21:12] What a tax strategist needs from their clients [23:48] Does Billy represent all the states? [25:03] What is the number one mistake real estate investors make on taxes? [26:27] What is the trend of people who are the most successful? [27:13] The last blue gem [28:30] Where to find Billy  *None of this is meant to be specific investment advice, it's for entertainment purposes only.

    Leaving Your Safe Job // The Aidan Groll Story

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 29, 2023 38:59


    In this episode of the Blue Gems Podcast, our very own Aidan Groll shares his story of transitioning from a corporate accountant to a real estate investor. He stumbled upon the concept of house hacking and was infatuated with the idea of buying a duplex and renting out one side while living in the other. Aidan also shares the mindset flip he experienced that's helping him to build a company that genuinely aligns with his lifestyle goals. Let's connect! ► Blue Gems Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bluegemsgroup/ ► Aidan's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aidangroll/ ► JB's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jbinvested/ ► Blue Gems Management: https://bluegemsmgmt.co ► STR Meetup: https://bluegemsgroup.com Timestamps: 00:00:00 Intro 00:05:44 Corporate background helping real estate 00:11:00 Learning from big companies 00:20:14 Flexibility for work-life balance 00:23:56 Discipline and willingness to sacrifice 00:33:38 Find a mentor, raise capital 00:37:48 Believe in limitless abilities 00:40:28 Building leadership skills *None of this is meant to be specific investment advice, it's for entertainment purposes only.

    53 | Tash Richardson's Guide to International Property Management

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2023 32:12


    Tucked away on an island off the coast of Morocco are twenty five properties managed by Tash Rishardson, an STR investor and property manager. If managing these rentals didn't keep her busy enough, she also coaches/mentors on the side to help other like-minded people follow in her footsteps. Tash and her partner have been in the STR game for seven years and are looking forward to growing their personal portfolio more.  Having worked in property management for several years, Tash is sharing how she got to where she is today and lessons she's learned along the way. With her marketing background, she has a couple blue gems to drop about getting referrals for aspiring property managers. Listen to today's episode of Blue Gems to learn more about co-hosting, building a team, logistics of management, and more.  Connect with Tash Instagram: @thehosthouse  Blue Gems Management: https://bluegemsmgmt.co/ STR Meet Up: https://bluegemsgroup.com/ [00:00] Episode teaser [00:27] Show intro  [01:00] Tash and her background in real estate [03:41] The twenty five properties  [04:58] Managing property owners: systems and tips [09:57] Direct bookings, getting leads, and marketing  [11:54] Getting clients as a new co-host [13:42] How did Tash find her employees? [15:30] Tash's thoughts on her own portfolio  [16:57] Average annual revenue for the properties on the island  [18:19] What is the goal of the owner when the buy their properties? [19:33] Blue Gems Management [20:01] What clients will Tash turn away? [21:14] Cost of setting things up for owners [23:05] Hurdles Tash's business is facing right now [25:47] What is Tash excited about? [28:05] Advice for a new STR investor [28:57] Where is the STR market going in 2024? [30:18] One last blue gem  [31:09] Where to connect with Tash  [31:25] Wrapping it up 

    52 | How to Maximize your Revenue with Becca Madigan

    Play Episode Listen Later May 26, 2023 27:30


    Today on Blue Gems we're welcoming Becca Madigan from PriceLabs. She started out as a front desk pricing at her local vacation rental company in Charleston, SC and now has been with PriceLabs for two years. Becca is walking us through what services PriceLabs offers and how STR investors can utilize the analytics from design to amenities to specific markets. She sees lots of data and is talking about what the patterns in data are showing and things investors may need to watch out for when looking for new investments. PriceLabs has lots of opportunity for customizations and also a great support team that is there to help you if something looks off. Use a dynamic pricing tool to save yourself time and make yourself more money, and if you don't have one yet check out PriceLab's website linked below and see how they can help you make a difference in your STR game.  Pricelabs Website- https://hello.pricelabs.co/ Blue Gems Management- https://bluegemsmgmt.co/ STR Meet Up- https://www.eventbrite.com/e/blue-gems-strairbnb-meet-up-tickets-576481239907 [00:00] Episode teaser [00:24] Show intro  [00:56] Becca Madigan: her journey into PriceLabs [02:23] What is PriceLabs? [03:50] How the market dashboard works and the data behind it [06:11] Filtering by amenities [07:15] Seasonality  [08:51] How do you begin to choose a base rate? [10:25] Advanced factors for more experienced investors [13:28] If you have one property, is it worth getting PriceLabs? [14:28] Pricing [15:35] New features coming out in PriceLabs [16:46] What is the data telling about saturation?  [18:05] Blue Gems Management [18:33] Markets Becca is excited about [20:52] Saturated markets [21:47] Things people miss with PriceLabs [23:47] Why do people hold back on investing? [24:32] Where is the STR market going in 2024? [25:29] One last blue gem [26:09] Where to find PriceLabs webinars [26:39] Wrapping it up 

    51 | The 30 Day Stay Masterclass with Zeona McIntyre

    Play Episode Listen Later May 18, 2023 33:03


    If you're in the real estate STR market, chances are you have heard about mid-term rentals. But what's the big deal? On today's episode of Blue Gems your new favorite MTR expert, Zeona McIntyre, is sharing her knowledge with us. From marketing to management differences to lender perspectives, Zeona is giving a short course on how to get into the MTR game.  After managing properties outside of the United States, Zeona is currently working on getting her portfolio closer together than the five states she's currently at. She's looking into the Atlanta market and telling us why she loves it for MTRs and STRs. Listen in for blue gems!  Blue Gems Management: https://bluegemsmgmt.co STR Meet Up: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/blue-gems-strairbnb-meet-up-tickets-576481239907 Connect with Zeona Website: zeonamcintyre.com Instagram: @zeonamcintyre [00:00] Episode Teaser  [00:26] Show intro  [01:00] Zeona and her real estate background  [02:09] What market qualifies for MTRs? [03:27] Defining STRs and MTRs  [04:34] Marketing and ROIs for MTRs  [06:33] Managing an MTR's calendar/rental rates  [09:54] How new are MTRs?  [10:41] Common mistakes for MTR investors [11:48] How do lenders and insurance companies see MTRs?  [13:13] Pulling potential rental income for MTRs  [14:03] Booking on vs. off platform and other tools  [16:52] Self-managed or a team?  [18:00] Management differences [18:46] Blue Gems Management  [19:14] Management differences cont. [20:05] What is Zeona interested in right now?  [20:59] What markets is Zeona in?  [22:02] Tips on Boulder, CO.  [24:02] Information on connecting with insurance providers  [26:20] Zeona's current perfect market [27:57] Managing properties outside of the country [29:51] Advice for aspiring MTR investors [30:27] Where MTRs are going in 2024 [31:12] One last blue gem [32:05] Where to find Zeona  [32:17] Wrapping things up 

    50 | How to leave Corporate America through Airbnb Arbitrage with Kierra Castleberry

    Play Episode Listen Later May 11, 2023 33:54


    On this week's episode of Blue Gems we are welcoming Keirra Castle, an STR investor who specializes in arbitrage and coaches on the side. Motivation for Kierra comes from her childhood and has spurred her to the success she is enjoying today. Starting out in finance, making the switch from a steady W-2 job to living off of STRs was a big jump for Kierra and she is sharing with us how she made that leap successfully. Kierra is talking to us about standing out in saturated markets, her current portfolio, predictions on the STR market and everything in between. Her coaching business focuses on helping arbitrage investors get their first yes, while also bringing in guest speakers who specialize in other areas to bring her clients value. Kierra is encouraging people to fail forward and to not be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Blue Gems Management: https://bluegemsmgmt.co/ STR Meet Up: https://bluegemsgroup.com/ Connect with Kierra YouTube + Instagram: kierracastle Email: suppport@forthehost.com [00:00] Episode teaser [00:20] Show intro [00:53] Kierra and her story [02:21] From big four to Airbnbs [04:03] Kierra's first deal [06:34] The current portfolio [08:06] Houston vs. Atlanta: how do the markets affect each other [09:27] Arbitrage units [10:27] Key skills to succeed in STRs [12:35] Saturation in Kierra's local market [14:00] How do you stand out? [15:50] Blue Gems Management [16:18] The best advice Kierra has recieved from her mentors [17:35] Work life balance [19:04] Team members/VAs [20:38] Goals for the team [21:57] Kierra's coaching for getting the “yes” [23:32] Challenges for the Airbnb business [25:10] Technology or software [26:17] Advice for new real estate investors [29:29] Where is the STR market going in 2024? [31:18] One last blue gem [32:25] Where to find Kierra [33:09] Wrapping it up

    49 | Meet the award winning Airbnb ambassador Brindy Bringhurst

    Play Episode Listen Later May 4, 2023 41:22


    Welcome to today's episode of Blue Gems with Brindy Jean, an STR investor and host. She started as a property manager at a tech startup and bought her first home in Phoenix, Arizona. With March Madness coming up, she decided to earn some extra cash by renting out her house and became hooked on the STR game. The biggest hurdle she faced was the gap between a solid, W-2 job to making an income full time in the STR field. From using TurnoverBnB to coaching tips to design and budget, Brindy is sharing blue gems from her experience.  Brindy encourages STR investors everywhere to go beyond Airbnb and create short term rental businesses, not Airbnb businesses. If you start out on Airbnb like Brindy did, make a plan to add other platforms and direct booking because the STR space is going to shift to more direct bookings and retargeting prior customers.  Blue Gems Management- https://bluegemsmgmt.co/ STR Meet Up- https://bluegemsgroup.com/ Connect with Brindy Instagram- @airbrindy Website- www.airbrindy.com [00:00] Episode teaser [00:29] Show intro  [01:02] About Brindy and why she chose STRs  [02:14] Transitioning from a W-2 to full time STRs for 2 years [04:41] Brindy's current portfolio: arbitrage, coaching, personal properties, etc.  [07:33] The first step to getting an STR  [10:14] What Brindy's team looks like [12:27] Automations and tech  [15:29] TurnoverBnB [18:26] Maintenance and handymen [21:54] Blue Gems Management  [22:22] Handymen cont.  [23:46] Using VAs in the business  [28:09] Budget for furniture and where to find it  [37:21] Advice for new real estate investors  [37:57] Future of STRs  [38:55] One last blue gem [40:03] Where to find Brindy  [40:33] Wrapping it up 

    48 | How to Buy the Block with Chris Senegal

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 28, 2023 35:45


    Chris Senegal's start into real estate came when he dreaded his 9-5 job and knew he needed to get out. Since then he's acquired whole neighborhoods from distressed sellers who just want to be relieved of a “burden” that they inherited. Part of Chris' portfolio is in Peerspace and he is getting into the details of renting out a space for events.Getting a space ready for Peerspace is more expensive than it would be for an Airbnb, but the ROI has the potential to 10x what it would be as an STR. Chris is focusing on investing around a big development with Airbnb, Peerspace, and an apartment complex with a unique concept. As his last blue gem, Chris is sharing his triangle of success and is for sure to inspire you to diversify your STR game.Blue Gems Management: https://bluegemsmgmt.co/ STR Meetup: https://bluegemsgroup.com/[00:00] Episode teaser [00:35] Show intro [01:08] Chris' story in the STR game [04:23] Creative financing[10:53] What is Chris most excited about? [12:16] What is Peerspace and why is Chris excited about it? [14:32] Handling parking for Peerspace [15:25] Determining ROI for renting out to Peerspace [17:12] Airbnb vs. Peerspace [19:15] Arbitrage model with Peerspace [21:08] Blue Gems Management [21:36] Getting a property Peerspace ready [24:06] Competitors in the area [24:48] Peerspace from a marketing perspective [25:44] Challenges when setting up on Peerspace [27:39] What is Chris up to right now? [30:28] Advice for real estate newbies [32:37] A day in the life of Chris [33:36] The last blue gem [35:02] Closing it out

    47 | The Airbnb G.O.A.T. With Sean Rakidzich

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 9, 2023 38:28


    Sean Rakidzich is joining us on today's episode of Blue Gems. Sean is a STR arbitrage guy who has built his business from the ground up by arbitraging. With this unique strategy, Sean has been able to make STRs truly passive without taking a profit cut. If you want to follow this strategy for your own STR portfolio, Sean is explaining the steps to take to get you from 0 doors to 150 or more.Across almost every industry, people are having a hard time finding and keeping good employees. Sean is talking about how his company finds quality employees from cleaners to management. Content creation has been a big factor in Sean's career. Through all his hard work and investments, Sean now lives for himself and doesn't have to set an alarm clock in the morning.Blue Gems Management- https://bluegemsmgmt.coSTR Meet Up- https://bluegemsgroup.com[00:00] Episode teaser [00:30] Show intro [01:03] Sean's background[01:33] Why arbitrage and not purchasing?[03:16] What about the passive income aspect?[05:40] Software to make things passive[07:24] Systemizing your business[11:19] What are rule sets?[13:33] Generating leads[16:00] The process of furnishing all the new doors[18:09] Hiring and finding cleaners[19:59] Who handles all the guests?[21:32] Blue Gems Management[22:00] Is Sean doing anything different from competitors?[24:12] How does Sean pick up co-host clients?[24:56] Growing an audience through content creation[27:21] How much time does Sean use for content[29:40] Would Sean go back and change his channel?[30:30] Sean's hobbies[32:54] Advice for real estate newbies[33:11] What is a day in the life?[34:11] The last blue gem[37:38] Closing it out

    46 | The Million Dollar Host with Julie George

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 2, 2023 27:02


    Today on Blue Gems we have Julie George all the way from Australia. After selling her short term rental company Julie moved into the mentoring and coaching space and now meets with people all over the world in the STR community. Starting out, Julie did all the work herself. She was the guest experience manager, cleaner, business owner, and more. As her portfolio grew she hired co-hosts and eventually a property manager. When she scaled her business to 130 properties, she sold her portfolio to pursue her passion of traveling and speaks at real estate conferences around the globe.Julie is predicting that short term rentals will explode even more and be the main form of accommodation for travelers. She's talking about the markets she would buy in if she were to start buying properties again. For Julie the joy in life never ends and she is able to live out her dreams thanks to short term rentals. Julie's philosophy is dream bigger then dream bigger. Accomplish your dreams by educating yourself and creating a solid business plan, and make sure to surround yourself with people who support you and enhance your energy.Connect with Julie GeorgeFB/Instagram/LinkedIn: @juliegeorgeWebsite: milliondollarhost.auBlue Gems Management: https://bluegemsmgmt.co/STR Meetup: https://bluegemsgroup.com/[00:00] Episode teaser[00:33] Show intro[01:06] How did Julie get into short term rentals?[03:31] What is Julie doing with her time now?[05:06] How did Julie scale her short term rentals[08:52] When did Julie add employees[09:51] What is a co-host and what are they in charge of?[11:21] The portfolio makeup[13:21] Where did Julie find her clients?[14:21] How did Julie go about selling the business?[16:18] Julie's book [18:05] Blue Gems Management[18:32] Where is Airbnb going?[20:04] Where would Julie look for new properties?[22:00] Julie's plan after the euphoria of selling[23:00] Advice for someone just starting out[24:06] One thing Julie would have done differently if she could go back[25:19] The last blue gem[26:06] Where to find Julie[26:23] Closing it out

    45 | The Credit Crash Course with Eddy Garcia

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 16, 2023 36:59


    Today on Blue Gems is Eddie Garcia, credit specialist. He's getting into the differences between personal and business credit and how it applies as an entrepreneur or investor. Learn what banks are actually looking when you're trying to borrow on credit (hint: it's not your credit score). Positive borrowing behaviors can help you get the bank's trust and access to lower interest rates.When the economy tightens up, so do banks. Knowing how to leverage your business credit can help you continue investing in leaner times. Communicating with your bank will build trust and allow you a greater deal of flexibility when it comes to future borrowing. But what happens when your credit tanks after a bad business move? Eddie specializes in helping clients get out of that hole.You want relationships with the people who lend money so you can become partners and not be a consumer. Whatever you want to do in life, it takes courage. Just take the steps and go get your goals.Blue Gems Management- https://bluegemsmgmt.coSTRMeet Up- https://bluegemsgroup.comWhere to connect with EddieInsta- @eddiergarcia23Phone number- (619) 259-3809[00:00] Episode teaser[00:29] Show intro[01:02] Intro to Eddie[02:06] How to reach Eddie if you need credit help[03:19] Business vs. personal credit[05:53] What are banks looking for in business loan?[08:17] Which cards have the best perks?[10:01] Good borrowing behaviors to do[13:56] Typical interest rates Eddie is seeing[18:45] What are Airbnb clients normally coming to Eddie for?[26:42] Blue Gems Management[27:09] Establishing 250k of business credit[31:21] A day in the life for Eddie[34:01] The last blue gem[35:26] Where to find Eddie Garcia[36:13] Closing out

    44 | How to Leverage your Money with Bridget Brick

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 9, 2023 31:23


    Bridget Brick, a short and long term real estate investor, is joining Blue Gems today to change your perspective on money. Go from thinking about the move in front of you like in checkers, to thinking strategy like in chess. As an investor, knowing the cycle of trigger points in the market will allow you to play the game on a whole different level.Supply and demand are constantly in play, and we are getting into supply vs. demand in the context of this real estate cycle. If you're looking to tap into the equity of your homes, Bridget is talking about the specific loan she does to help real estate investors scale quickly.Did you know you could arbitrage money? Bridget is taking listener's deep into this strategy for investors. Every dollar you have is a foot soldier you can use for your gain, whether you choose to utilize it or not. A great way to learn how to move your foot soldiers is to learn from others who have done what you want to do and are in the market.Blue Gems Management- https://bluegemsmgmt.coSTR Meet Up- https://bluegemsgroup.comConnecting with BridgetInstagram- @bridget_brixtrustcapitol.com[00:00] Episode teaser[00:27] Show intro[01:00] A little bit about Bridget Brick[02:03] Reframing your thinking about money[05:16] Why you should care about trigger points as an investor[07:58] Where are we at in the cycle right now?[09:15] Demand vs. supply[10:27] Different ways to tap into home equity[15:08] Where does the money come from if not the government?[16:09] Blue Gems Management[16:37] Purchasing at high value/low rate vs. low value/high rate[19:05] Arbitraging money[22:44] Some expenses associated with a loan/the time value of money[25:09] How does a new investor learn where to put their money?[27:11] A day in the life of Bridget[29:06] The last blue gem[30:12] Where you can find Bridget[30:33] Closing it out

    43 | How to Build STR Wealth with Bill Faeth

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 2, 2023 38:46


    If you don't have a plan how do you know what to invest in? Bill Faeth, a self proclaimed serial entrepreneur, gets into how to architect your life before you invest in a short term rental. One strategy Bill uses to build his portfolio is investing by following the pod system. He buys large cash flow rentals to support the smaller rentals he and his wife will eventually retire in.Bill co-hosts a small portfolio, and focuses on marketing each one of the rentals he works with. His goal is to make clients more money so he is able to raise his rates. If you want to self-manage and learn how to market off platform, Bill is getting into strategies he uses for his own properties. Now that demand is coming down, marketing yourself well is a need in today's world.Insurance, contracts, signs, and LLCs are an important topic not many people talk about in the STR world. Being properly insured is a back up for you as the owner if something bad happens at one of your rentals (like someone slipping on icy steps). Planning for everything will give you a clear path to follow on your STR journey. Your plan may change again and again, but don't leave anything up to chance.Blue Gems Management- https://bluegemsmgmt.coSTR Meet Up- https://bluegemsgroup.comWhere to connect with BillInstagram- @billfaeth73Tik Tok- @bfaeth[00:00] Episode teaser[00:35] Show intro[01:08] Bill's background[02:27] Current portfolio and how he adds to it[07:26] Bill's responsibility as a co-host[11:48] Marketing off platform and the logistics behind it[19:31] Blue Gems Management[19:59] Current split on bookings between platforms[23:56] Direct booking from a legal standpoint[30:41] Advice for new STR investors[31:45] A day in the life of Bill Faeth[33:44] The last blue gem[36:59] Where to find Bill Faeth[38:01] Wrapping it up

    42 | The Kayak of Short Term Rentals with Robert Montana

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 26, 2023 31:29


    Robert Montana is talking to us about his business, Jaunt Direct, a booking platform creating wins for hosts and guests of STRs. Most of the time there are barriers to entry for a product like this, but Robert eliminates that all together with a simple and streamlined approach. The bulk of the work in setting up on Jaunt Direct is uploading all the information.Robert himself was an avid traveler who lived out of his backpack. He started out as an STR investor because he fell in love with snowboarding in Telluride, CO. He bought a second house to rent out on Airbnb when he wasn't using it and hasn't looked back since. He's encouraging STR investors to run numbers as a long term rental, and is getting into more detail about this in the episode.Robert is also getting into how Airbnb is a tool, not a business. Airbnb started out as a way to invite strangers into your home, and that's part of what drew Robert to STRs. Having multiple platforms, and multiple streams of income, can give you peace of mind. As an emergency medical doctor, Robert has been around the world and met amazing people and is sharing a glimpse of what that looked like and how it eventually influenced him to join the STR game.Blue Gems Management- https://bluegemsmgmt.coSTR Meet Up- https://bluegemsgroup.comConnect with RobertJauntDirect.comFB- Robert Montana[00:00] Episode teaser[00:35] Show intro[01:08] What's going on with Robert Montana?[05:03] Why wouldn't everyone sign up for a free site that advertises for them?[13:36] What does Robert's platform look like today and why did he start this website?[17:50] Blue Gems Management[18:17] Advice for someone just getting started in STRs[21:59] What is a day in the life of Robert?[23:28] The last blue gem[26:54] Robert's top 3 countries[29:31] Where to connect with Robert[30:41] Wrapping it up

    41 | Renting by the Hour with Brandon Esparza

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 12, 2023 25:39


    From a pro dancing career to a transition to videography, Brandon Esparza used his knowledge to build out a studio to rent by the hour to make hundreds in a day. Brandon is talking about the platform he uses, Pure Space, to make his money on the side.As opposed to Airbnb, renting on Peer Space is done hourly. Brandon is getting into detail about how to transform a traditional STR to a Pure Space rental. He's also talking about regulations you may have to watch out for and giving details about the potential profit for renting out on Pure Space.Brandon is sharing some of the challenges he's learned from his time in the commercial real estate space. He's also giving tips for people who want to rent out spaces hourly, whether on Pure Space or other platforms.Blue Gems Management- https://bluegemsmgmt.coSTR Meet Up- https://bluegemsgroup.comWhere to connect with Brandon EsparzaInstagram- @brandonesparzaYoutube- Brandon Esparza[00:00] Episode teaser[00:35] Show intro[01:05] Brandon's background and intro to Pure Space[03:45] What is Pure Space?[04:28] The clientele and layout of the spaces[05:26] How do you talk to your landlord about renting out on Pure Space[07:13] The nuances of Pure Space vs. Airbnb[09:01] Permits or regulations to watch out for[10:24] Crunching the numbers[12:03] Maintenance on Pure Space rentals[13:07] Where is Brandon marketing his studios?[14:46] Does Brandon use his own studios?[15:42] Blue Gems Management[16:09] Where did Brandon find spaces for his studios?[19:20] Advice for someone who wants to start a studio to rent out[20:55] What separates the doers and the wishers?[22:00] A day in the life of Brandon[23:05] The last blue gem[24:29] Where to find Brandon[24:54] Outro

    40 | The 203k Way with Matt Porcaro

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 29, 2022 41:58


    If you could go back to your early 20s and do it all over again what would you do? This question is what inspired Matt Porcaro and ultimately made him the founder of the 203k Way. Hitting right out of the gate, Matt is sharing his first home purchase using a 203k loan. Take a deep dive into what a 203k loan is, how it benefits investors, and how Matt used it to build his real estate portfolio. Learn all about how contractors play into a 203k loan and how this loan can be used specifically for STR investments. We're even going into how a seller might see an offer that is a 203k or homestyle loan. Matt is giving practical advice on scheduling your time and prioritizing exercise, and encouraging those suffering from analysis paralysis. All things in life require a massive action, so listen in to be inspired to get busy. Blue Gems Management- https://bluegemsmgmt.coSTR Meet Up- https://bluegemsgroup.comConnect with MattInstagram- @the203kwayYoutube- The 203k Way [00:00] Episode teaser [00:36] Show intro [01:09] Welcome to Matt[01:24] Matt's background and his area of expertise [11:14] The nuances of using a 203k loan [17:27] How to utilize a 203k loan for STR investors [22:33] Blue Gems Management [23:00] How is a seller looking at a homestyle loan offer? [26:35] Ways Matt is investing his money outside of the 203k loan [32:02] Advice for a real estate newbie [34:26] A day in the life of Matt[37:21] The last blue gem[39:17] Where to find Matt[40:07] Wrapping it up

    39 | Meet the 1031 King with Dave Foster

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 8, 2022 31:38


    On this episode of Blue Gems we're welcoming Dave Foster, more famously known as the 1031 Investor. He earned this title by figuring out the 1031 exchange and when to utilize it. Dave is going to explain to us how to leverage this tax hack to build your portfolio bigger and better, and will explain his own portfolio and how he's used the 1031 exchange to build a solid portfolio. Dave is discussing some of his strategies for leveraging the 1031 exchanges to diversify your portfolio, as well as how to reduce the tax burden on investors both new and old. Learn the four D's of 1031s and mistakes you can make while trying to utilize a 1031 exchange. Listen in to hear all the gems Dave has to offer.Connect with Dave and his team:Website- https://www.the1031investor.com/Blue Gems Management- https://bluegemsmgmt.co/STR Meet Up- https://bluegemsgroup.com/[00:00] Episode teaser[00:35] Show intro[01:09] Welcome to the 1031 Investor, Dave Foster[01:24] How Dave earned the 1031 Investor name[02:27] Leverage: how to use the 1031 exchange[04:36] Dave's current portfolio[09:11] Living on a boat[09:41] Using 1031 exchanges to expand into mid-term rentals[12:14] How Dave helps investors reduce their tax burden[15:57] Is it possible to defer your tax bill indefinitely?[19:23] Blue Gems Management[19:50] What's the catch to 1031 exchanges?[21:38] How many properties can be on the list?[24:58] Financing with a 1031 exchange[26:09] Advice for new investors in real estate[29:04] A day in the life of Dave Foster[29:38] The last blue gem[30:31] Where to connect with Dave[30:55] Outro

    38 | Building a Short Term Rental Empire with Avery Carl

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 25, 2022 32:56


    If you are a new real estate investor, or a more experienced one looking to add to your toolkit, this episode is for you. We are welcoming Avery Carl, a real estate investor with 220 doors over the course of five and a half years, and is a real estate agent who specializes in STRs in over 15 markets. She is talking to us today about how to grow such a large portfolio and some of the logistics that come along with that. Avery's first real estate deal in Tennessee was part of a plan to pay for her future kid's college, and now there's almost too many markets to name. Avery's business has been built from this to meet the needs of STR investors and she has a wealth of experience as an STR agent that she's sharing with us today. Listen in to learn about the logistical side of STRs and different tools to use to make your business flourish.Learn more about Avery and her businessWebsite- https://theshorttermshop.com/Insta/Youtube- @theshorttermshopBlue Gems Management- https://bluegemsmgmt.co/STR Meet Up- https://bluegemsgroup.com/[00:00] Episode teaser[00:23] Show intro[00:57] Welcome to Avery Carl[01:15] Avery's background[02:19] Where does Avery attribute her success?[02:53] How to manage all those properties[04:03] How many STRs does Avery have and in what markets?[04:43] Avery's first deal[07:31] Getting out of state deals[08:40] Building out Avery's brokerage[10:10] What markets are Avery in?[11:25] The markets Avery is looking into[11:45] How does Avery determine which markets to go to?[12:46] How clients are financing these purchases[13:51] Is Avery looking to buy anything in this market?[14:37] How important is it to use an STR agent?[16:23] Blue Gems Management[16:49] The mortgage arm of Avery's business[17:23] Is there a metric they look for?[18:17] Where is the STR market going?[19:20] The Disney market[20:52] Advice for newbie STR investors[22:24] Metro markets and people lobbying against STRs[24:05] Automation tools and software[26:39] Platforms and bookings[27:25] How much time is spent managing properties?[27:35] Combatting slower travel[29:30] Advice for someone just starting to build a personal brand[29:51] Best advice for someone new in STRs[30:19] A day in the life of Avery Carl[31:29] The last blue gem[31:54] Where to find more about[32:13] Outro

    37 | How to use your IRA to invest in short term rentals with Mat Sorensen

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 17, 2022 41:40


    Matt Sorenson is a lawyer who works with investors, is the author of The Self-Directed IRA Handbook, and is the CEO of Directed IRA. Matt is talking about how to use a self-directed IRA, the most underutilized tool, to invest in real estate and why everyone should know about this life hack. When you invest with your retirement account, there are lots of nuances that follow, so Matt is talking us through what it's like to buy a property with a self-directed IRA. On the legal side of life, Matt is talking about how to work the tax benefits for new and experienced STR investors. Matt sees tons of real estate investors, and is sharing what things he sees that makes people the most successful, like knowing yourself and how you operate. Listen in for these blue gems and more from Matt Sorenson.Connect with Matthttps://directedira.com/https://matsorensen.com/https://kkoslawyers.com/Blue Gems Management:https://bluegemsmgmt.co/STR Meetup: https://bluegemsgroup.com/[00:00] Episode teaser[00:34] Show intro[01:08] Welcome to Matt Sorenson[01:17] What is Matt's expertise and background?[02:31] Utilizing a self-directed IRA to invest[05:06] Traditional real estate transaction vs. an IRA transaction[10:52] What are the rates like?[11:21] Recommendations for new investors in the legal realm[15:00] The operation side of life[17:01] Why 40k?[18:36] How many LLCs should I have?[22:21] Pros and cons of having a holding company[29:02] Blue Gems Management[29:28] Legal and tax advice for new STR investors[33:54] The #1 trend for top performing real estate investors[38:00] One last blue gem[39:24] Where to find Matt[40:58] Outro

    36 | How to Find the Right Short Term Rental with Jeff Brown

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 10, 2022 25:48


    Jeff Brown from Loma Homes is talking numbers and operations for STRs. From sourcing data to managing an on the ground turnover team, Jeff is taking us through his experience in real estate and giving inside information on how he looks for properties.Learn more about Loma Homes at their website: https://loma-homes.com/Jeff's email: jeff@loma-homes.comBlue Gems Management: https://bluegemsmgmt.co/Short Term Rental Meetup: https://bluegemsgroup.com/[00:00] Episode intro[00:23] Show intro[00:56] Welcome to Jeff Brown[01:14] Jeff's journey into real estate[02:06] How Jeff found Joshua Tree before it was on the map[03:22] Where Jeff sourced his data[05:34] Determining the annual gross revenue[06:38] Markets Jeff is excited about[09:08] Running the pro forma at a high level[09:52] What is a good comp for an STR?[11:46] What does the on the ground team look like for Lome Homes?[15:19] Breezeway for turnover management[16:17] Blue Gems Management[16:44] Is the cost of Breezeway worth it?[17:52] Target returns when looking at a new market[19:16] Selling based on NOI vs. comps in the area[22:25] Advice for STR newbies[23:38] A day in the life of Jeff Brown[24:12] One last blue gem[24:52] Where to connect with Jeff[25:11] STR meet up/outro

    35 | Award Winning Short Rental Design with Tatianna Taylor

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 4, 2022 33:09


    Tatianna Taylor Tait has a beautiful story of how loss after loss in her life got turned around and now she's here to share her success journey and drop some serious blue gems. Tatianna has an extensive portfolio and is sharing her expertise with interior design that makes short term rentals stand out.Learn more about Tatianna and her business by clicking one of the links below.Website- http://www.tatiannataylortait.com/Course- www.thanksforbooking.comInstagram- https://www.instagram.com/tatiannatt/?hl=enBlue Gems Management: https://bluegemsmgmt.co/Short Term Meetup: https://bluegemsgroup.com/[00:00] Episode teaser[00:35] Show intro[01:08] Tatianna and her real estate journey[08:44] Some tactical things Tatianna learned[10:39] How does business look today?[12:56] The size of the team[13:43] Structuring a deal in Tulum, Mexico[15:01] Tatianna's insight on the importance of interior design[18:30] Blue Gems Management[18:57] The rule of thumb for budgeting[22:41] Tips for furnishing on a dime[25:58] What is the value of Tatianna's design course?[28:43] Advice for an Airbnb newbie[30:20] What would Tatianna do differently if she could go back?[31:05] One last blue gem[32:07] Where to find Tatianna[32:32] Wrap up and outro

    34 | The King of Atlanta - Abraham Gray

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 27, 2022 31:28


    Buckle in for today's episode of Blue Gems where we're talking with Abraham Gray, From making thousands a week selling baseball cards to making millions, Abraham has a lot of blue gems to share. This man is buying 30 houses a month and is telling us about how he got to where he is today. FB: Abraham Gray Youtube: Abraham Gray (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCplzGExPqM0Ff6RpO_jiuNg)Blue Gems Management: https://bluegemsmgmt.co/STR Meet Up: https://bluegemsgroup.com/[00:00] Teaser[00:29] Show intro[01:02] Abraham Gray, the King of Atlanta [01:39] Abraham's current portfolio[02:32] Where to find off market deals[03:31] Abraham's business history [07:23] How Abraham was able to acquire dozens of businesses[10:13] What's a good deal on a business?[12:59] Types of successful businesses[13:51] Management after buying a business[15:30] How to make a business attractive for buyers[19:55] Creating niche businesses and current business ventures[23:12] Are STRs a business?[25:07] Does Abraham invest in startups?[26:02] Advice for new investors[27:01] A day in the life [29:23] The last blue gem[29:51] Where to connect with Abraham [30:34] Close out

    33 | How to Build a Top 100 Podcast with Tyler Cerny

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 20, 2022 36:09


    Today we're talking to Tyler Cerny, a business and international sales consultant. We're going through the ins and outs of building and growing a podcast and how this can help you in your STR game.Connect with Tyler:Instagram- @tylerecernyLinkedIn- Tyler CernyBlue Gems Management: https://bluegemsmgmt.co/STR Meet Up: https://bluegemsgroup.com/[00:00] Teaser[00:28] Show intro[01:02] Introduction to Tyler[02:00] Growing a podcast, tips and tricks[11:06] Ways to optimize your ROI on a podcast[13:52] What metrics to look at for growth[17:51] Blue Gems management[18:17] A podcaster's budget[23:07] Walking through the services Tyler's company offers[25:06] What Tyler is up to outside of podcasts[28:47] The real estate market for the Blue Gems men[30:29] What to focus on as a beginning business owner[32:27] A day in the life of Tyler[33:47] One last blue gem[35:01] Where to find Tyler

    32 | 280k gross revenue on 1 STR with Bryndee Barton

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 13, 2022 29:41


    Bryndee Barton from Loma Homes is talking to us today about her vacation rental business, which she owns with her husband. Primarily based in the Florida market, Loma Homes specializes in theming and Bryndee is sharing her secrets on STR market.Find out more about Loma Homes on their website, https://loma-homes.com/ , or on Instagram, @lomahomesConnect with Bryndee at her email, bryndee@loma.homes.comBlue Gems Management: https://bluegemsmgmt.co/STR Meetup: https://bluegemsgroup.com/[00:00] Episode teaser[00:20] Show intro (new and improved)[01:59] How Bryndee Barton started into real estate[05:49] When Loma Homes really started[06:26] Loma Homes' portfolio, past and present[10:16] The pros and cons of LTRs and STRs[11:16] How big is Loma Homes?[12:33] Crunching the numbers[15:09] Exit strategies for Loma Homes[16:10] Disney talk: theming and the ROI[23:09] Blue Gems management[23:35] Expenses of an STR[24:58] Advice for STR newbies[26:02] Where Bryndee thinks the STR market is going[27:04] Do guests take better care of themed properties[28:17] One last blue gem[29:42] Where to find Loma Homes[30:10] STR Meet up[30:27] Outro

    31 | Take your STR Design to the next level with Bridgette Whitney

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 6, 2022 35:45


    Today we're talking to Bridgette Whitney who specializes in designing Airbnbs. She walks us through how she designed one of the top rentals in Nashville, gives tips for designing on a budget, and what to ask a potential designer. Learn more about Bridget and her business on Instagram or Tik Tok at @itsbridgettebitch or check out her website, itsbridgettebitch.comBlue Gems Management: https://bluegemsmgmt.co/STR Meet up: https://bluegemsgroup.com/[00:00] Teaser[00:12] Show intro[00:48] Welcome to Bridget[01:00] Bridget's journey into real estate and design[03:35] Hiring Bridget and her boyfriend for design[04:11] Where is Bridget finding the cool pieces[05:25] Bridget's portfolio[05:54] How content has changed the business[07:07] Bridget's design vs. the average design[09:05] How to get the highest ROI on design budget[16:19] When to hire out design and when to do it yourself[17:26] How to estimate budget for a designer[21:10] Airbnbs and management[22:27] Posting the progress[23:16] Where Bridget is finding clients[23:53] Good ways to differentiate from other Airbnbs[26:22] What questions should you ask a potential designer[27:22] Adding automation to properties[28:23] Where's Bridget's business will be in the next few years[30:55] Best advice for an Airbnb newbie[32:12] What does a day in the life look like?[33:26] The last blue gem[34:43] Where to find more about Bridget and her business

    30 | WorkBNB, A New STR Market with Yeves Perez

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 29, 2022 48:51


    Welcome to Yeves Perez, CEO of WorkBNB. WorkBNB is changing the rental game for blue collar workers and opening up a whole new market to STR owners. Listen in to discover more about WorkBNB and how Yeves is pushing to create the next household name in the rental market.Invest in WorkBNB by checking out wefunder.com/workbnbBlue Gems Management: https://bluegemsmgmt.co/[00:00] Episode teaser[00:27] Show intro[01:02] Welcome to Yeves Perez[01:17] Who Yeves is and how WorkBNB got to Florida[03:08] What is WorkBNB?[04:29] The differences between a short and long term rental[05:49] What it takes to commit to work force rentals[10:18] Helping workers who help the community[12:54] The regulations in work force rentals[15:29] Ways to cater to the WorkBNB customers[19:39] BLUE GEMS MANAGEMENT[20:05] Cont.[20:23] Keeping consistency and marketing[21:36] The differences in nightly rates[23:39] STR vs. work force rentals on profit[26:04] What happens if a guest is squatting?[28:46] Converting STRs into longer term stays[30:27] The opportunity for requests[32:17] What's the launch plan?[34:27] How to invest in WorkBNB[39:25] What does a day in the life look like?[43:41] Where is WorkBNB in the future?[45:31] The last blue gem[48:07] Wrap up

    29 | Does STR Design Matter with CEO Brandon Blake

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 22, 2022 35:24


    On today's episode we're welcoming Brandon Blake, owner of The Staging Company. Brandon went from being a sales associate to owning The Staging Company and learned a lot on the way. We're talking about his journey, how he manages his work life balance, anddropping blue gems along the way. Learn more about The Staging Company on their website at https://thestaging.co/Blue Gems Management: https://bluegemsmgmt.co/[00:00] Episode teaser[00:12] Show intro[00:45] Welcome to Blake[00:57] Brandon's journey and how it gets to STRs[04:50] What happens when The Staging Company gets the keys[06:41] A price breakdown from start to finish[11:25] What pushes the ROI up?[13:05] How long it takes to furnish an average property[18:04] Where does The Staging Company go to?[19:47] STR set up vs. staging a house[21:23] How big is The Staging Company and how big will it get?[22:36] The things you need to build a company[26:00] Brandon and his wife's Airbnb goals[27:07] What is a day in the life of Brandon?[30:25] Number #1 lesson from building a company[33:23] The last blue gem[34:17] Wrap up and close out

    28 | The Hero of STR with Theron Lewis

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 15, 2022 65:53


    Today's episode we're talking to the STR hero and regulations guy, AKA Theron Lewis. Theron started his business in short term rentals, and then an STR ban almost took it away. Learn how Theron and his team work to stop these bans in cities all over the country by listening in.Reach out to Theron or his team members at thestrregulationsguy.com LEARN MORE Blue Gems Management: https://bluegemsmgmt.co/[0:00:00] Episode teaser[0:00:23] Show intro[0:00:58] Welcome to the STR hero[0:01:23] The STR hero's origin story[0:07:30] How go about changing the regulations in a city[0:09:09] Is the STR hero investing?[0:11:09] Legal background or legal teams?[0:14:37] After the association, what's next?[0:17:16] Blue Gems Management[0:17:43] Cont.[0:20:29] What happened in Philly? (Plus how to repeat it elsewhere)[0:46:16] Can you reach out to the STR hero for advice?[0:48:52] Where is the STR market heading in the next 5 years?[0:50:58] A day in the life of the STR hero[0:55:09] The last blue gem[1:03:56] Wrap up[1:05:16] Short term rental meetup

    27 | Revolutionizing Housing With the Jupe CEO Jeff Wilson

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 8, 2022 46:17


    On today's episode of Blue Gems we're talking to Jeff Wilson, co-founder of Jupe. Listen in to hear all about how Jupe's are upping the game in the short term rental market. Jeff gives the details about how Jupe can benefit anyone who is interested and leaves those blue gems along the way.Find out more about Jupe online at https://www.jupe.com/ALL NEW: For all your short term rental management needs, check out blue Gems Management. Make your short term rentals passive income today by checking out our website: https://bluegemsmgmt.co/ Free short term rental meetup:[00:00] Show Teaser[00:47] Intro[01:22] Who is Jeff and what is Jupe?[02:29] Jupe's units and scalability[04:45] Where are Jupe's units?[05:33] How to find sites for Jupe to set up[07:08] The Jupe model[08:51] How Jupe manages regulations[10:53] Will Jupe start renting out for events?[13:51]Getting Jupes, other uses for them, and new things coming[17:16] New announcement[17:43] Cont.[20:17] Space per Jupe and how many you can get[22:20] Furniture included[24:03] What weather is withstandable[25:31] Roof, plumbing, HVAC, and electrical for Jupes[29:10] Feedback about the guest experience[33:01] A day in the life for Jeff[35:47] If Jeff could go back in time, what would he do differently?[37:35] Where did the name Jupe come from?[41:02] How is Jupe helping the STR community?[43:57] The last blue gem[45:29] OutroFollow Blue Gems instagram and stay up to date! https://www.instagram.com/bluegemsgroup/

    26 | CEO of HostGPO Crushing the Vacation Rentals Industry with Jeff Iloulian

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 1, 2022 40:02


    On today's episode of Blue Gems, we're talking to Jeff Iloulian who is the co-founder of HostGPO. Jeff was intentional in his real estate strategies, and went from arbitraging and vacation rentals, to being the CEO of HostGPO. Listen in to find out how HostGPO helps short term rental managers and how Jeff chose his markets.Find out more about HostGPO on their website at hostgpo.com[00:00] Episode intro[00:41] Show intro[01:33] Jeff's real estate journey[02:55] The current portfolio[03:30] What's a group purchasing organization?[05:09] When to sign up for HostGPO[06:04] Reasons to go for quality[08:58] Highest ROI furniture pieces[11:51] Criteria for partners of HostGPO[14:04] Advice for hosts: functionality tips[18:16] Automation tools on HostGPO[19:31] HostGPO's journey[22:06] The size of the HostGPO team[23:24] Biggest challenges in scaling Host GPO[25:14] Is Jeff's portfolio growing?[26:16] Markets Jeff would be interested in[29:19] How many markets Jeff is currently in[30:55] What is a day in Jeff's life?[33:42] Where is the short term rental market heading?[36:38] The last blue gem[38:56] How to find out more about HostGPO[39:40] OutroFollow Blue Gems instagram and stay up to date! https://www.instagram.com/bluegemsgroup/

    25 | From Broke to Success Using Real Estate with Wayde Hall

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 29, 2022 33:07


    This episode of Blue Gems we're talking to Wayde Hall! Wayde is a realtor in central Florida who has a goal of retiring in 4 years at the ripe old age of 28. An investor himself, Wayde talks about what he looks for in an investment and strategies to stand out from the rental down the street. Tune in for this and more on Blue Gems Podcast.[00:00] Episode intro[00:20] Show intro[00:53] Wade and his real estate journey[01:57] How is Wade planning on retiring at 28?[02:50] How dropping out of college played out for Wade[04:41] The sales pitch formula[05:29] Why real estate?[07:32] 35 under 35: the sacrifices Wade made[09:08] Mindset or pure determination?[10:26] The first couple deals and future goals[12:25] Pros and cons to short term rentals[14:28] Running the numbers on a short term rental[17:40] Theming: why do it and what is it?[21:08] How much to invest in theming[24:44] Saturation in the Florida market[26:58] Should agents focused on investments buy their own properties?[27:56] Long term vs. short term rentals[29:05] Goals for the near future[30:12] Advice for new short term rental investors[31:00] How to choose a new market[32:03] The last blue gemFollow Blue Gems instagram and stay up to date! https://www.instagram.com/bluegemsgroup/

    24 | How to Become an STR focused agent with Brandt Fanion

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 18, 2022 32:11


    Today on the podcast we're talking to Brandt, a realtor who specializes in short term rentals. Brandt began his real estate journey in 2014, so tune in to hear how he's sharpened his craft and honed in on his market of choice.[00:00] Episode teaser[00:28] Show intro[01:14] Brandt's journey in real estate[03:45] Pros and cons of different real estate markets[04:48] Tennessee to Florida[05:50] Considerations for short term rental markets[07:18] Advice for agents who want to help investors in STRs[08:32] What are factors for the legalities of STRs?[09:26] Number crunching 101[10:17] Maximizing the ADR[11:38] Self-managing or outsourcing[13:15] Self-managing tips and tricks[14:31] Pricing strategies[15:33] Brandt's goals as a realtor and investor[17:09] Where is the market going?[19:31] Trends and types of loans in an STR market[20:33] Getting a vacation home loan[22:14] DSCR loan for the STR market[24:39] Buying a property vs. running a business[25:58] How do investors scale and buy often[28:27] What separates the doers and wishers[30:07] #1 tip for getting in the short term rental space[30:50] One last blue gem[31:44] OutroFollow Blue Gems instagram and stay up to date! https://www.instagram.com/bluegemsgroup/

    23 | How to Leverage Short Term Rentals to Build Wealth and Reduce your Tax Liability with Ryan Bakke

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 11, 2022 52:40


    This week on Blue Gems we talk with Ryan Bakke about the nitty gritty details of how to leverage real estate investing to get to most out of your taxes. Ryan works with a CPA firm specializing in real estate investing with a focus on short term rentals. Both a tax account and an investor himself, Ryan knows the ins and outs of the trade. Check out his website learnlikeacpa.com for more information.[00:00] Episode intro[00:21] Show intro[00:56] Ryan's background and how he got into real estate[03:53] Why does the IRS incentivize real estate investing?[04:47] Passive vs. active income[06:45] What are the tax rules for someone who does househacking?[07:51] How can a real estate investor compensate for loan qualifications?[09:14] Depreciation and where to add it back[11:29] The great tax benefits of short term rentals,[17:30] Does the short term rental loophole affect your tax return?[20:45] Loophole in long term rentals[22:39] Why don't people househack or get into other real estate?[25:10] Cost segregation studies and their benefits[32:19] What can you write off as a real estate investor?[35:54] How your spouse can be a big asset to your investing[38:24] Call Ryan for those blue gems[39:34] What does Ryan look for in clients?[41:56] Understanding rules and tax codes as an investor[43:37] Ryan's portfolio[46:58] Advice for people new to real estate[48:23] What separates the doers and the wishers[49:43] The last blue gem[52:06] OutroResources: https://www.instagram.com/bluegemsgroup/

    22 | From Engineer to Short Term Rental Pro with TJ Tijani

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 4, 2022 37:53


    This week we have TJ dropping blue gems on the podcast! Ex-engineer turned short term rental pro, TJ is dropping life, short term rental, and arbitrage advice. Listen in while TJ talks through his portfolio and the strategies he used to get to the place he's at today. Find TJ on instagram at @tjtijaniand check out his event coming up on August 19th at rental-summit.com[00:00] Episode Intro[00:34] Show Intro[01:10] How TJ got into real estate and short term rentals[06:09] What is rental arbitrage?[08:00] TJ's portfolio[10:21] How to finance multiple units[12:36] What markets are TJ looking at?[13:17] Marketing and networking strategies[16:56] TJ and speaking engagements[19:50] How TJ's personal life affects his business life[23:29] What it was like for TJ to go from a W-2 to entrepreneurship[26:17] The most challenging part of climbing the ladder[28:22] What is TJ's why?[30:30] Advice for the new people in real estate investing[32:15] What separates the wishers and the doers?[32:49] How do you figure out what market to target?[33:32] One last blue gem for the audience[36:03] Where to connect with TJ[37:27] OutroResources: https://www.instagram.com/bluegemsgroup/

    21 | Meet the Expert in Short Term Rentals with Taylor Jones

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 28, 2022 41:37


    Welcome to this week's episode of Blue Gems! We're talking to Taylor Jones, an expert in short term rentals. Dabbling in both personal short term rentals and managing short term rentals with a firm, Jones has a wide array of experience in multiple markets. Find Taylor on Twitter at @MrJonesSTRs to connect and learn more.[00:00] Episode Intro[00:16] Blue Gems jam time[00:52] Welcome to Taylor, learn about his story[05:24] How Taylor underwrites his yields[06:30] Why invest in short term rentals with a firm?[08:03] What's the minimum contribution vs. the yield?[09:27] Automation of short term rentals and why people are still important[15:05] The best markets to be in as of today[17:33] The financial/legal limits of working for a firm[19:20] If Taylor had to buy a property with his wife, what market would it be in?[22:44] Short term rentals are in the 2nd inning: let's explain[27:53] Thoughts on a luxury short term rental[32:50] Mid-term rentals?[34:53] Best advice for newbies in short term rentals[36:58] What would you do differently than when you first started out?[38:11] Where is Taylor Jones in 5 years?[39:28] The last Blue Gem for the audience[40:52] Reach out to Taylor on socials[41:31] OutroResources: https://www.instagram.com/bluegemsgroup/

    20 | How to House Hack your way to Financial Freedom with Alberto Nikodimov

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 21, 2022 59:56


    In this episode we meet Alberto Nikodimov, a realtor, investor and property manager. We learn why it's important for agents to own real estate, the ins and outs of managing short term rentals and explore Alberto's recent house hack deal![0:00] Episode intro[0:24] Show intro[0:59] How Alberto got into real estate and his journey thus far[10:11] Mentor advice: put your money where your mouth is[11:20] Alberto's experience with househacking[21:24] Multi-family appraisal challenges[23:24] Advice for someone who wants to do a househack[26:46] Things they don't tell you in real estate[30:36] When to outsource to people, know your boundaries[35:33] Managing airbnbs and how to set yourself apart (blue gem in there too)[45:34] Advice for investor newbies[47:22] Long vs. short term rentals[49:48] Where Alberto will be in five years[51:22] Is it worth it to hire a short term rental property manager for your properties?[56:57] The last blue gem of the episode[58:40] How to reach out and connect with Alberto[59:24] OutroResources: https://www.instagram.com/bluegemsgroup/

    19 | How to Net 15k/mo in First year as STR host with Hung Mai

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 14, 2022 52:49


    In this episode we meet Hung Mai, a short term rental investor based in Orlando, FL. Hung teaches us how to overcome analysis paralysis, the importance of systems and delegating, and how to deliver a world class guest experience.Reach out and connect with Hung Mai on Instagram @hungvmai or at (407) 401-3361 to find out more.[00:00] Introduction[01:21] How Hung Mai got into short term rentals, plus some tips and tricks[11:26] Managing strategies for short term rentals: communication is key[16:54] Airbnb vs. VRBO[21:56] Continuing to learn new strategies[24:11] Number of current markets, and possible future ventures[27:35] Hung Mai's experience in wholesaling prior to short term rentals[30:39] Who would Hung Mai add to the team next?[38:02] Goals for the coming years[42:25] Advice for a new real estate investors[44:21] Why short term rentals?[47:35] The last blue gem for the listeners[51:23] Hung Mai's socials[52:15] OutResources: https://www.instagram.com/bluegemsgroup/

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