Target Market Insights: Multifamily Real Estate Marketing Tips

Chris Wise is a Navy veteran, attorney, and founder of Wise Capital—a property technology company focused on upgrading Class C multifamily housing through in-house AI, IoT, and data systems. By combining real estate ownership with smart software development, he's redefining operations and improving tenant experiences across older multifamily assets. Based in Louisville, Kentucky, Chris brings a unique blend of military discipline, legal expertise, and tech innovation to the multifamily investing space.     Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here.     Key Takeaways How Chris transitioned from Navy to law to real estate The North Star guiding his career pivots: social impact Why predictive maintenance is essential in Class C properties Using IoT and internal tech to reduce costs and extend asset life Real examples of tracking power and water consumption to prevent failures How in-house product development helps maintain affordability     Topics From the Navy to Real Estate: A Career of Purpose Chris's path from Navy service to law school and legal practice How his passion for social impact shaped his professional pivots Solving Problems Through Technology Founding a software and marketing firm to solve internal inefficiencies Learning to code and build tools to reduce costs for small businesses The Rise of Wise Capital How Chris combined real estate and tech to launch Wise Capital Why Class C properties were the ideal target for smart upgrades IoT and Predictive Maintenance in Action Identifying failing systems before they break: water, power, HVAC Using public product data and power consumption to monitor appliances Replacing $0.10 fuses instead of full appliances Reducing Costs Without Raising Rents Keeping rent stable by slashing expenses through innovation Why many "smart" solutions don't make sense financially—and how to build better Vertically Integrated Operations and Property Management Why Chris keeps property management in-house Hidden costs in third-party management that eat into NOI Common Missteps in Value-Add Projects Misplaced renovation priorities (e.g., ignoring plumbing or sinks) Focus on function, pride of living, and true ROI over cosmetic updates    

Joe Rinderknecht is the founder of Upgrade Partners Capital and Cowboy Capital, a real estate investment firm specializing in acquiring and operating value-add multifamily properties. With deep roots in ranching and a background in construction, Joe brings a hands-on approach to real estate, backed by years of entrepreneurial experience. His journey from working blue-collar jobs to managing complex multifamily assets reflects his drive to create generational wealth and live intentionally. In the past year alone, Joe and his partner Levi have closed on 419 units across several states—all while keeping family and values at the center of their mission.     Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here.     Key Takeaways Learn why having a strong partnership can unlock rapid portfolio growth Understand how hands-on experience helps overcome construction challenges Discover the importance of aligning business strategy with personal values Get practical advice for vetting contractors and managing budgets Hear how transparent communication saved a struggling project     Topics Joe's Ranching Roots and Entry Into Real Estate How Joe's upbringing on a ranch and construction background shaped his work ethic Transitioning from manual labor to entrepreneurship and finance Hands-On Multifamily Management Lessons from managing an 80-unit property with high vacancy and crime Building operational skills through property management and acquisitions The $3M Renovation Journey What went wrong on a 1951 property rehab—and what saved it Learning to navigate capital calls and manage contractor relationships Lessons in Construction Oversight Why multiple contractor bids are essential Realizing cheaper isn't better when scaling projects Building a Powerful Partnership How Joe found a long-term partner after multiple failed ones Dividing responsibilities and scaling with aligned values Family First, Empire Later Why Joe and his partner are intentionally staying lean Long-term vision to build a bigger business after their kids are older    

In this week's solo episode, John Casmon steps away from guest interviews to break down one of the most misunderstood topics in multifamily investing: underwriting. After speaking at the Big Deal Summit in Columbus, John shares the real-world framework he uses to analyze deals—not just in spreadsheets, but in practice. From setting clear investment criteria to identifying operational inefficiencies, John walks through how successful investors combine vision, market insight, and execution to drive lasting results.     Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here.     Key Takeaways Underwriting isn't about the spreadsheet—it's about the vision, people, and execution Always define your buy box and end goals before analyzing numbers Focus on markets with both macro strength and micro-level renter desirability Investors don't pay premiums for plumbing or electric—focus on visible value Operational inefficiencies are gold if you know how to identify and fix them Don't assume you can operate better than a seasoned owner without proof Stress test your assumptions: What happens if the plan breaks?     Topics The Real Goal of Underwriting Spreadsheets don't reflect operations—real estate is about people, not numbers Get clarity on what kind of asset and community you're trying to build Defining Your Buy Box Understand your own criteria before chasing ROI or IRR Why Cincinnati and surrounding markets meet John's standards for long-term growth Macro and Micro Market Selection How renter desirability shapes submarket selection Population growth ≠ renter demand—context matters Value-Add the Right Way Tenants won't pay more for new pipes—focus on kitchens, lighting, appliances Target properties with updated mechanicals so your upgrades actually add value Operational Inefficiencies to Look For Low occupancy, slow turn times, bloated expenses, and misaligned staffing Why seasoned operators aren't always "mismanaging"—stay humble Creating vs. Assuming Value Ask questions before opening a spreadsheet—what is the business plan? Don't guess your way through the numbers; know what levers create value Stress Testing the Deal Underwrite break-even points and failure scenarios Real story: How one business plan unraveled when resident profiles clashed Final Thoughts on Strategy Vision before budget—start with what you want to create IRR matters, but timing and exit assumptions often fail Know your buyer—plan your renovations around future investor demand    

Nitzan Mosery is a serial entrepreneur, coach, investor, and host of the Traveling Investor radio show. With decades of experience across diverse industries—including renovation, hospitality, and jewelry—Nitzan eventually found his calling in multifamily real estate. Through firsthand trial and error, he built a powerful investing career focused on passive income, team scalability, and creative financing strategies. Nitzan is the founder of Multifamily Empire and teaches others how to build long-term wealth through value-add multifamily assets in emerging U.S. markets.     Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here.     Key Takeaways Always verify tenant quality, market conditions, and neighborhood dynamics before acquisition Don't fall in love with the property, fall in love with the numbers Build systems and hire around your own zone of genius to scale effectively Trust is built by consistent visibility, social proof, and delivering real hands-on performance Capital raising only works if you've invested time building authentic investor relationships     Topics From Restoration to Rentals How Nitzan transitioned from flipping houses and restoration to multifamily rentals The cash limitation problem that pushed him toward syndication and scaling Hard-Earned Lessons from Early Deals His early duplex in Chicago and fourplex in West Palm, and what went wrong Why failing to verify tenants, management, and neighborhoods cost him What Passive Investors Really Care About How he used mistakes to refine screening, team-building, and due diligence The red flags with PMs who own local units, and how to ask smarter vetting questions Demographics, Market Research, and Value-Add That Actually Works Why Nitzan relies on a dedicated demographer to track population flows How his team validates value-add returns by examining proven rent comps Raising Capital with Intent Why "money will come if the deal is good" is only half true Why educating and nurturing your network before a deal is critical to raising capital Positioning Yourself for Institutional or Family Office Capital The exact conversation that unlocked a relationship with a family office Why showing up consistently (online and in-person) builds trust over time    

Caleb Christopher is a real estate investor, entrepreneur, and one of the foremost minds in creative financing for residential properties. He's the founder of Creative TC, a consulting firm helping investors structure safe, legal, and ethical creative finance deals—including subject-to, seller finance, and wrap mortgages. He's also the creator of tools like the underwriting calculator and the partnership evaluator, and he's raising capital for ventures like his title company via innovative vehicles such as investment clubs. Caleb is passionate about building tools where none exist, solving complex problems, and creating upward mobility for the people around him.     Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here.   Key Takeaways Always start creative deal conversations with the end in mind—even if the path is uncertain Get the seller's full story before pitching terms; relationship-building is critical Flexibility and an outcomes-oriented mindset are essential for creative structures Investment clubs can be a powerful capital-raising alternative to traditional syndications Solving the seller's future needs is often more important than hitting your own price targets     Topics From Builder to Problem-Solver Caleb builds systems and solutions when existing tools don't meet his standards Created Creative TC to become an authority in ethical creative deal structures Creative Finance 101 Most deals start with a pricing mismatch—terms become the bridge Key is understanding the seller's backstory and aligning on a shared outcome Being Outcomes-Oriented Investors must learn to zoom out and focus on results, not just checklist tasks Knowing multiple exit strategies allows for creative flexibility Common Seller Profiles Single-family deals often involve financial distress High-price sellers may not be distressed but hold strong pricing expectations Structuring for Mutual Success Price vs. terms: the seller gets one, you get the other Options like cash-out timelines, exit plans, and shared management responsibilities help mitigate seller risk Challenges with Brokers Brokers often limit creative structures—direct seller conversations are more fruitful Investors must proactively communicate how brokers still get paid on creative deals Raising Capital Legally Differentiates between syndication types (506b, 506c) and investment clubs Advocates for active participation structures and tools like Fractional to stay compliant Investor Mindset and Scaling Many investors forget to consider the seller's needs—this kills deals Demonstrating good faith and offering safeguards builds trust and credibility Lead Flow and Brand Positioning Caleb's unique positioning in creative finance draws complex deals his way Word-of-mouth and online presence help others know "this is the guy for creative"    

Evan Polaski is the Director of Capital Raising at Black Gate Partners, where he leads investor relations and capital strategy for multifamily real estate syndications. With 18 years of commercial real estate experience—including roles in retail development, multifamily investments, and investor communications—Evan brings a rare blend of institutional perspective and hands-on execution. He has invested as both a general and limited partner and is known for his candid approach to alignment, underwriting scrutiny, and investor education.     Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here.     Key Takeaways Great deals and abundant capital rarely align—it's always a pendulum A conservative deal today may have felt aggressive just 24 months ago True GP-LP alignment is nuanced and difficult to achieve—acquisition fees often skew incentives Passive investors should study sponsors' fee structures, co-investments, and transparency The best investor relations approach isn't sales—it's expectation management     Topics Falling in Love with Real Estate Early Evan's fascination with real estate began as a child watching shopping centers being built in Atlanta Studied finance and real estate at the University of Cincinnati, and started in retail REIT investor relations Has worked across roles in capital raising, investing, and ownership The Market's Capital-Deal Imbalance Capital and deal quality are rarely in sync—one is always scarce 2021–2022 saw capital flood the market, but often into weak deals Today feels like 2009 again, with conservative investors and fewer phone calls returned Lessons from the Downturn Floating-rate loans and short-term debt—not real estate quality—are behind many failed deals Evan cautions that "safe" real estate only stays safe with proper structure and conservative assumptions Overly optimistic IRRs, misaligned capital stacks, and loose underwriting have been exposed On Alignment and Fees Evan focuses on age and experience as critical factors when evaluating GPs Acquisition fees deserve close scrutiny—especially when they exceed co-investment amounts Sponsors who transact just to earn fees raise red flags around long-term alignment Managing Investor Expectations Great IR is about setting, managing, and exceeding expectations LPs who receive clear, accurate communication—regardless of performance—stay engaged longer Sales-driven approaches often lead to mismatches in trust and long-term relationships Navigating Growth and Team Building Scaling a syndication business brings team demands—growth isn't always about ego Even small increases in payroll or promotions require deal flow and capital Balance between investor returns and internal sustainability is delicate and evolving Track Record and Debt Structure IRR isn't enough—investors should ask how much of a return came from NOI growth vs. cap rate compression Evan favors sponsors who have survived downturns and learned from risk exposure Floating debt creates the illusion of strong deals—fixed-rate debt demonstrates stability    

Mac Shelton is the co-founder of Sweetbay Capital, a real estate private equity firm focused on value-add multifamily investments in Virginia and the Carolinas. With a background in private equity and mezzanine lending, Mac blends institutional financial experience with a data-driven approach to real estate. Since 2021, he and his team have built a portfolio of over 340 units, concentrating on under-the-radar markets like Roanoke, VA, where rent growth consistently outpaces new supply.     Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here.     Key Takeaways Rent growth—not population growth—is the key driver of returns Markets with less outside capital often outperform due to better entry pricing and lower volatility Renovation premiums are often overestimated—test before scaling your plan Conservative exit underwriting should account for the next buyer's view, not just your own Transparency with investors builds trust and fuels long-term partnerships     Topics Why Sweetbay Focuses on Smaller Markets Smaller markets like Roanoke and Columbia are producing higher rent growth with lower acquisition costs Mac compares tertiary markets to places like Raleigh in the early 2000s—under the radar but primed for stable returns Oversupply in "hot" metros like Raleigh and Charlotte is driving rents down, while less popular markets remain steady Data Over Hype: What Drives Rent Growth Rent growth is more important than population growth and is driven by renter population relative to new supply Mac shares an analysis comparing Roanoke to Raleigh, Charlotte, and Greenville—showing similar or better rent performance with lower price per door Why Lease Trade-Outs and Renewals Matter Lease trade-outs measure organic rent growth, but renewals give even clearer insight into demand Renewals at 3–4% growth without renovations are often a better gauge than turnover metrics Exit Assumptions: Thinking Like the Next Buyer Every acquisition includes a re-underwrite from the future buyer's perspective Mac shares how he checks cap rate assumptions against current comps and validates price-per-door benchmarks Transitioning from Private Equity to Real Estate Mac started his career in private equity and gradually began acquiring rentals with his bonus income His first syndication scaled a student rental model he'd already executed personally Investor Communication and Building Trust Sweetbay Capital emphasizes detailed offering memorandums with full fee transparency and CapEx justifications Quarterly reports compare actuals vs original projections—no adjusted budgets or post-hoc explanations Advice for New Syndicators Don't start syndicating without doing your own deals first—prove the model with your money Sweetbay's first deal had no promote, just a 3% acquisition fee, to reduce friction and earn investor trust The best way to grow capital is to return it and reinvest with a strong track record    

Natalie Cloutier is a French-Canadian real estate investor who, alongside her husband, has spent over a decade building a successful build-to-rent business in Canada. With a background in architectural technology, Natalie began her journey by constructing her first home at the age of 19 using a sweat-equity loan, transforming a family "secret" into a powerful investment model. Today, she and her husband have built 53 units from the ground up, acquired and renovated four additional properties, and automated their business to support long-term growth. Her approach centers on risk-aware development, ADU maximization, and creative strategies to unlock housing value. She is also the author of The Build to Rent Strategy and co-founder of The New Build Couple.     Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here.     Key Takeaways Why building your own home with sweat equity can kickstart your investing journey The build-rent-refinance-repeat model Natalie uses instead of traditional BRRRR How legislation like Bill 23 unlocked value via ADUs The risks to watch for when analyzing land deals Why burnout forced her to scale—and how hiring a team changed her business     Topics From Architecture School to First Build How Natalie and her husband started by building their own house at 19 The sweat-equity loan that replaced a traditional down payment Living through construction while house-hacking their basement unit Scaling with Confidence Transitioning from guided help to self-led builds Building nights and weekends while working 40-hour weeks How an employee learned their model and replicated it himself Why Build-to-Rent Made Sense Existing properties in Ontario didn't pencil out Build-to-rent as a better alternative to BRRRR for their market The shift from slow beginnings to full-time real estate Shifting Strategies Through Market Changes The effects of COVID, inflation, and interest rates Navigating legislative battles with municipalities Taking a break to reassess in the face of red tape Due Diligence in Development Natalie's master checklist before buying land Zoning, sewer, easements, internet access, and environmental tests The consequences of skipping steps (like a $30k surprise for internet) How ADUs Became a Game Changer Leveraging Ontario's Bill 23 to turn a duplex into a triplex Avoiding six-figure development fees by using ADU classifications Applying the ADU model to create sixplexes with cost savings    

Vitaliy Gnezdilov is the co-founder of Raise Ready Systems, a capital-raising platform helping real estate operators attract six- and seven-figure checks through paid social campaigns. With a background in user experience design, Vitaliy blends creative branding with performance marketing to help sponsors scale beyond friends and family capital. He has raised over $40M alongside strategic partners and formerly worked at CrowdStreet to streamline investor acquisition and conversion at an enterprise level.     Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here.     Key Takeaways Social media can drive serious capital—but only if you build trust, credibility, and speed into your funnel. "Speed to lead" is the difference between a committed investor and a missed opportunity. Avoid pitching too early—use the first call to understand investor goals and qualify the fit. Human touchpoints (real calls, manual follow-up) outperform automation when raising large checks. Sophisticated investors do respond to ads—if you tailor your messaging and sales process to their needs.     Topics From UX Design to Real Estate Capital Vitaliy began his career in software and UX before partnering with a high school friend in advertising. Together, they leveraged design and paid traffic to raise capital in exchange for GP equity. Worked with sponsors across multifamily, mobile home parks, and ATMs—raising $40M+. Building Raise Ready Systems Created a framework to generate investor conversations using paid ads and optimized funnels. Emphasizes "speed to lead" and relationship-building, not just lead generation. Most clients aim to raise $1M/month per investor relations rep using his system. What Actually Works in Paid Campaigns 15–20 ad hooks are tested at launch; funnel must earn attention seconds at a time. Webinar funnels often fail due to lack of contextual awareness—must match platform behavior. Content and UX must be laser-targeted; the platform algorithm does the rest. Human Touch vs. Over-Automation Raise Ready added an appointment-setting team that calls leads within 5 minutes. Human contact builds credibility before handing leads to IR teams. Created diligence packets and follow-up sequences to support investor conversion. Common Mistakes Operators Make Lack of sales process is the biggest bottleneck—not lead volume. Founders often pitch too early; better to listen, qualify, and align investment opportunity. Raising from strangers is a different game than friends and family—adjust your approach.    

Catrina Craft is a CPA, tax strategist, and real estate investor with over 20 years of experience in applying the tax code to maximize wealth for investors and entrepreneurs. As the founder of Craft CFO Advisory Services, she supports real estate professionals, creative agencies, and business owners with proactive planning to reduce tax obligations and build long-term wealth. A frequent speaker and educator, Catrina brings a unique blend of compliance, strategy, and investment knowledge—helping her clients go beyond tax preparation and into true financial empowerment. Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here. Key Takeaways Start tax planning early—waiting until tax season puts you in reactive mode Don't structure appreciating assets in a C corp—it can lead to unnecessary tax penalties Asset protection is more than just forming an LLC; structure and exposure matter A tax strategist is proactive—meeting regularly and guiding decisions throughout the year The IRS rewards those who build and invest—use the code to your advantage Topics 1. From Debt to Wealth Building Catrina lost 80% of her income when a major client left and found herself $100K in debt This challenge drove her to learn real estate investing and the tax strategies behind wealth building Paid off her debt in 2 years while building a rental portfolio 2. The CPA vs. Tax Strategist CPAs focus on compliance and reporting what already happened Tax strategists plan proactively to reduce your tax bill before decisions are made Working with a strategist who knows your industry—especially real estate—is critical 3. Avoiding Common Structure Mistakes Many investors set up LLCs without understanding tax treatment options Holding real estate in a C corp is a costly and often irreversible mistake Asset protection includes entity structure, insurance, and understanding exposure risk 4. Planning Beats Panic Most deductions and deferrals (like cost segregation and 1031s) require advance planning Catrina meets monthly or quarterly with clients to stay ahead of key decisions Tax planning should start at the beginning of the year—not at filing time 5. Questions to Vet a Tax Professional Ask about their industry experience and how often they meet with clients Determine whether they offer strategy or just compliance services Ensure they understand your specific investing model (e.g. syndication vs. flipping)

Jon Weiskopf is the Founder and CEO of Blue Eyed Capital, a purpose-driven investment firm focused on helping people of color invest in high-performing real estate that delivers both financial returns and meaningful impact. After a successful engineering career that included designing Apple's flagship retail stores around the world, Jon left corporate life to pursue a more meaningful mission—one grounded in sustainability, social responsibility, and leaving a better world for his children. His impact-focused approach to multifamily investing prioritizes operational efficiency, environmental upgrades, and tenant well-being as pathways to long-term success.     Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here.     Key Takeaways Real estate impact investing is not charity—it's smart, sustainable business Operational efficiency matters more than rent growth for long-term value Utility cost trends are critical indicators of property performance risk Personal alignment with your investing mission prevents burnout and increases longevity Finding properties close to home can reduce risk and improve responsiveness Capital access and relationship-building are essential for resilience in tough markets     Topics From Apple to Apartment Investing Jon's career began in engineering, including 10 years leading Apple's retail development globally A burnout and desire to spend more time with family pushed him to rethink his priorities After attending a real estate event, he realized his background in construction and systems was an untapped advantage Finding Purpose in Real Estate Named after his wife and children, Blue Eyed Capital was born from a desire to create legacy and impact Jon's “why” includes modeling values for his kids and using his skills to improve the world Leaving Apple and taking a three-month leave of absence gave him clarity and relief from corporate stress Why Impact Investing Is Smart Business Jon focuses on improving underperforming Class C properties with outdated systems Instead of relying on rent increases, he drives returns through sustainability upgrades and energy efficiency Better-performing systems (HVAC, lighting, etc.) lead to tenant stability, lower expenses, and long-term ROI What Most Investors Get Wrong Many operators don't understand the compounding effects of rising utility costs Passing on utility bills to tenants only works until affordability breaks down Energy-efficient upgrades generate increasing savings year over year—unlike cosmetic renovations Choosing the Right Properties Looks for good bones: buildings that are structurally sound but need systems updates Willing to walk away from deals if fundamentals (e.g., plumbing) don't check out Proximity to home has become increasingly important for asset management responsiveness Capital Raising and Private Lending Jon warns new operators not to underestimate the difficulty of raising capital Missed investor commitments and slow funding timelines require backup plans He's built a parallel business in private lending to create consistent cash flow between deals    

Justin Brennan is a third-generation real estate investor and the founder of Brennan Polley Capital and Multifamily Schooled. After his family experienced a $60 million bankruptcy during the 2008 financial crisis, Justin rebuilt from scratch—growing a $185 million apartment portfolio across 1,100+ units in multiple states. Today, he's a leader in multifamily education and mentorship, helping others build wealth through cash-flowing assets, investor relationships, and a resilient mindset.     Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here.     Key Takeaways Use sweat equity to partner with others who bring capital—start with what you have Real estate offers generational wealth, but over-leveraging can wipe it all out Begin with a single unit if needed, but learn to scale fast using other people's money Community, discipline, and market knowledge are critical for out-of-state investing Opportunities don't knock—you create them and act when the door opens     Topics Rebuilding After a Family Bankruptcy Justin's father built and lost a $60M portfolio during the 2008 crash Learned hard lessons early: never over-leverage and always prioritize cash flow Decided to restart in 2010 with a $100K condo—and a long-term mindset From Small Starts to Major Scaling Bought duplexes and fourplexes before realizing the power of OPM Partnered with a friend in tech to launch Brennan Polley Capital First major deal: 27 units in Kansas City, raised $800K with just $30K out of pocket Now owns/control 40% of a $200M portfolio—vs. 100% of $3.5M before The Power of Community and Conferences A Tom Ferry conference helped shift his mindset around raising capital Later attended a Boston syndication event, which gave him clarity and confidence Losing his sister in 2018 made him take bigger action—he chose not to live with regret Investing Out-of-State with Confidence Recommends building your team before chasing deals: brokers, PMs, contractors, lenders Emphasizes importance of in-market relationships and pre-market deal access Uses security cameras to remotely monitor properties in real-time Invests only within 25–30 miles of top 100 MSAs for strong bank financing and tenant demand    

Nic Espanet is the founder of Flex Equity Group and host of the Flex Forward Podcast. After two decades as a physical therapist, Nic transitioned into real estate—starting with passive investments before becoming a lead general partner. He's now led eight out of ten multifamily deals across Texas, with a focus on operational systems, investor communication, and market strategy. Through his podcast and syndication work, he helps others build freedom through clarity, consistency, and resilience.     Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here.     Key Takeaways Start as a passive investor to learn best practices and build trust. Your first GP deal might require sacrificing equity to gain credibility. Raising capital today is about thoughtful follow-up, not just email blasts. Real estate's control and tangibility make it more appealing than stocks. Take fast action with underperforming property managers—delay can cost you.     Topics From Healthcare to Real Estate Nic spent 20+ years in physical therapy before pivoting to real estate. Originally planned to invest in single-family homes before discovering multifamily. His first steps were as a passive LP, which taught him how great GPs operate. The GP Transition Joined a Dallas real estate network to meet experienced sponsors. Partnered with a seasoned operator for his first deal and earned credibility through effort. Built his own investor systems based on what he appreciated as an LP. Capital Raising in Today's Market Early deals filled in 2–3 days. Now it often takes weeks of phone calls and reminders. Uses GoHighLevel CRM to track interest, follow-ups, and conversations. Avoids texting new investors due to new legislation (SB140 in Texas). Lessons From the Field During COVID, personally took over a failing asset and drove occupancy from 70% to 90%. Now focuses on Texas secondary markets with population growth and minimal new supply. Attributes success to consistent communication, team alignment, and market adaptability.    

Kolaiah “Fuzzy” Jardine is a real estate developer, author, and co-founder of Hui Mastermind, a Hawaii-based community focused on empowering Native Hawaiians to build generational wealth. His journey took him from serving time in federal prison to creating a multimillion-dollar real estate portfolio and developing affordable housing for local families. As the author of Priced Out of Paradise, Fuzzy is on a mission to teach others how to invest “the Pono way”—with integrity, community, and purpose.     Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here.     Key Takeaways Fuzzy's transformation from prison to property developer shows the power of mindset and purpose. “The crab in a bucket” mentality, surrounding yourself with the wrong people, keeps you stuck. Taking bold, decisive action (even when broke) can change your trajectory. Investing education is priceless when you're ready to implement it. “The Pono Way” means people before profit—help others first, and wealth follows.     Topics From Prison to Property Developer Fuzzy grew up in Oahu's multigenerational households, surrounded by love but also by poverty and addiction. After a prison sentence for drug-related charges, he discovered real estate through a white-collar inmate who taught classes on investing. Determined to change his life, Fuzzy came out of prison with a new mindset and a mission. Finding Purpose and Building Mindset Initial jobs included window washing, surfing instruction, and valet parking—three jobs just to survive in Hawaii. Realized hard work alone wasn't enough; financial education was key. Discovered Rich Dad Poor Dad and began pursuing real estate investing as a way to create generational wealth. The Turning Point: Fortune Builders While preparing to become a pilot, he heard a radio ad for a real estate training event and pivoted immediately. Borrowed $20K through a native Hawaiian loan and maxed out credit cards to join the program. His conviction came from being “sick and tired of working three jobs” and seeing his parents face foreclosure. Worked for free to gain hands-on experience and eventually became the go-to construction and development partner for other investors. Building Affordable Homes and a Legacy Now leading 60+ projects focused on affordable housing on Hawaii's Big Island. Emphasizes integrity and “The Pono Way”: helping families in distress before thinking of profits. Sees real estate as a means to restore opportunity for locals priced out of their own communities.    

In this week's solo episode, John Casmon steps away from guest interviews to share hard-earned lessons from his own investing journey. After returning to Chicago to speak at the Chicago Multifamily Club—a group he co-founded years ago—John reflects on the recurring questions he heard from investors eager to scale. Drawing on his personal experience building a portfolio from the ground up, he outlines the four pillars that every multifamily investor needs to master: clarity, relationships, process, and resilience.     Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here.     Key Takeaways Clarity creates direction—understand your “why” before chasing numbers or vanity metrics. Building relationships (“Who not How”) is the key to growth—find mentors, partners, and communities. Follow a proven process instead of trying to reinvent the wheel. Resilience and resourcefulness matter more than experience—problems are inevitable but solvable. Scaling isn't about doing more work—it's about building the right team to achieve freedom.     Topics The Chicago Multifamily Club Origin Story John co-founded the club in 2015 after attending too many unproductive meetups. Wanted to create an event that truly helped investors learn how to scale portfolios. Returning to speak at the same event years later was a full-circle moment of growth. 1. Get Clarity Understand why you want financial freedom, not just arbitrary goals like “100 doors.” Real success comes from knowing what your investments are solving for—security, time, or impact. Clarity fuels motivation when challenges arise. 2. Identify Your “Who's” Networking consistency led John to relationships that shaped his trajectory. Relationships create shortcuts that experience alone cannot. 3. Follow a Proven Process Instead of guessing, John invested in mentorship to learn syndication and scale faster. First syndication: a 192-unit deal in San Antonio with partners from his coaching network. Proven processes eliminate guesswork and create predictable results. 4. Be Resilient and Resourceful Real estate is full of surprises: contractors stealing, investors asking tough questions, and deals going sideways. Resourcefulness—not resources—separates those who thrive from those who quit. Learn from setbacks and keep moving forward.    

Derek Dombeck is a seasoned real estate investor, national speaker, and international bestselling author who has navigated the ups and downs of real estate since 2003. Known for his expertise in creative deal structuring, private lending, and relationship-based investing, Derek has completed thousands of transactions while helping investors gain control over their financial futures. Today, he leads Generational Wealth, where he teaches others how to build lasting legacies through intentional business and personal vision.     Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here.     Key Takeaways Learn to operate without banks by mastering creative deal structures and private lending. Building relationships—not relying on institutions—provides flexibility and resilience in any market. Investors must prioritize communication and integrity to maintain trust with lenders and partners. Success is rooted in having a clear vision for life first, and building business strategies around that. Control and freedom come from understanding “why” you want wealth, not just “how” to achieve it.     Topics From Losing Everything to Creative Control Derek started in the early 2000s with bank financing but lost nearly everything in the 2008 crash. Learned to rebuild through creative financing and raising private capital instead of relying on institutions. Founded a private lending business averaging 20–25 loans per month, lending over $3 million monthly. Why Relationships Beat Banks Institutional lending is transactional—private lending is relational. Investors who communicate transparently with private lenders can work through tough times and maintain trust. Reputation and reliability are worth more than a few basis points in interest savings. Raising Private Capital Raised over $25 million by building genuine connections and paying investors before himself. Early mistake: not developing a network soon enough. Now teaches investors to focus on building long-term trust and a solid track record. Creating a Vision-Led Life Entrepreneurs often trade a 9-to-5 job for a “5-to-9” grind—without defining what they actually want. Derek emphasizes creating a written life vision first, then building a business to support it. The question isn't how much money you want, but why you want it—and how it supports the life you envision. Rethinking Goals and Ownership Many chase status symbols (like beach houses or luxury cars) without questioning their purpose. Derek explains how experiences can be enjoyed today without waiting decades—like renting a dream home instead of owning it. True wealth is freedom to live intentionally, not accumulation of “stuff.”    

Chris Zona is a litigation partner at Mandelbaum Barrett, practicing primarily out of New York City. With nearly 100 trials under his belt, Chris helps investors and businesses turn legal conflict into capital. By leveraging litigation, non-performing loans, and distressed assets, he shows multifamily and commercial real estate investors how to uncover hidden opportunities and generate outsized returns.     Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here.     Key Takeaways Litigation doesn't have to be a cost center—it can be a source of investment opportunities. Non-performing loans (NPLs) often sell at steep discounts, creating entry points below market value. Attorneys can help investors navigate complex foreclosure timelines and risks. Judicial vs. non-judicial foreclosure states dramatically change the investment timeline. Building strong banking and attorney relationships is essential to sourcing and executing distressed note deals.     Topics Turning Conflict into Capital How Chris reframes litigation as a tool to unlock hidden opportunities. Why distressed debt and litigation finance are increasingly relevant in today's market. Understanding Non-Performing Loans NPLs often sell at 60–80% of face value, providing opportunities for investors. Secondary markets create deal flow as banks offload risky assets to redeploy capital. The Role of Litigation Attorneys Advising investors on jurisdictional risks, foreclosure timelines, and strategy. Using the threat of litigation to negotiate favorable outcomes without always going to trial. Judicial vs. Non-Judicial States Judicial foreclosures require lawsuits, trials, and long timelines. Non-judicial foreclosures are statutory, faster, and less litigious. Investors must factor timelines into their portfolio strategies. Market Conditions for Distressed Assets Rising interest rates and tighter bank policies have increased the number of NPLs. Why the next 3–5 years may provide significant opportunity for note investors.    

Loral Langemeier is a six-time New York Times bestselling author, world-renowned financial expert, and founder of Integrated Wealth Systems. With over 20 years of experience, she has mentored thousands of entrepreneurs and investors, built multimillion-dollar companies, and partnered with legends like Bob Proctor and Robert Kiyosaki. Known as “The Millionaire Maker,” Loral specializes in teaching people how to sequence their wealth and create financial independence through real estate, business, and smart investing strategies.     Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here.     Key Takeaways Sequencing your wealth: doing the right thing at the right time. The importance of mentors and surrounding yourself with the right team. Why databases and consistent communication are critical assets for raising capital. Real estate investors often make mistakes by chasing deals without having capital and credit lined up. Debt can be a powerful tool—being in “good debt” is essential to scale quickly.     Topics From Farm Life to Financial Expert Grew up in Nebraska, discovered Think and Grow Rich early, and hired Bob Proctor at 21. Transitioned from exercise physiologist at Chevron to working with the Rich Dad team as master distributor of the Cashflow game. Building Wealth Through Sequencing Success comes from taking the right steps in the right order—structure before deals. Real estate investors fail when they do the right things at the wrong time. The Power of Mentorship and Team Mentors open doors, but you must provide value and take action. Success is built with a strong, trusted team—not by going solo. Raising Millions Through Databases Used her database of 18,000 people to raise $16M for projects in Oklahoma. Consistent communication and investor education are essential for long-term success. Debt as a Wealth Tool Don't fear debt—leverage it wisely for higher returns. Millionaires use “good debt” to accelerate wealth, not avoid it.    

Nathan Schiess is a personal branding strategist and marketing expert who helps real estate professionals build authority, create visibility, and attract aligned relationships through strategic content. With a background in psychology, personal development, and real estate investing, Nathan blends storytelling and strategy to position his clients as trusted leaders in the industry.     Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here.     Key Takeaways A personal brand is not vanity — it's a system for communicating credibility to investors. Social media should be treated as a business tool, not a personal diary. High-net-worth individuals invest in people they trust, not just in advertised returns. You don't need tens of thousands of followers — a small, targeted audience can raise millions. Content should focus on solving your ideal client's problems, not showcasing yourself.     Topics From Investor to Branding Expert Nathan built a 40-unit portfolio before transitioning to focus on branding. Learned the importance of documenting and marketing expertise after losing everything in a divorce. Why Personal Branding Matters Without a brand, every investor interaction requires retelling your story. A curated online presence creates confidence and trust before the first meeting. Overcoming Objections to Social Media Branding isn't about you — it's about your Ideal Client Profile (ICP). Being shy or reluctant isn't an excuse if your goals require visibility. Branding can be outsourced like any other business function. Content That Builds Trust Define your ICP clearly and tailor content to their problems, questions, roadblocks, and desired results. Consistency and clarity build authority over time. Followers who won't invest aren't your audience — focus only on those who will. Monetizing Without Vanity Metrics 1,000 quality followers can generate six figures in deal flow. Followers must know exactly how to work with you — clear calls to action are essential. Avoid content that entertains without converting.    

Ben Michel is the founder and principal of Ridgeview Property Group, a real estate investment firm focused on value-add multifamily properties in the Twin Cities. After a decade as a multifamily broker, Ben transitioned into investing during the pandemic and has since grown Ridgeview's portfolio to $25 million in assets. He specializes in heavy-lift renovations using construction debt, transforming underperforming properties into long-term holds that generate stable returns.     Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here.     Key Takeaways A decade as a broker provided Ben with credibility and deal-analysis skills that investors trusted. Raising capital requires confidence, credibility, and broad connections—not just a handful of close contacts. Expanding his outreach from 50 contacts to thousands transformed his ability to raise funds. Coaching and mentorship were critical for learning construction loans, renovations, and repositioning strategies. Long-term success depends on planning for market cycles with reserves, staggered debt maturities, and strong operations.     Topics From Broker to Investor Ten years as a multifamily broker built experience analyzing deals and observing operators. First investment came from converting a failed listing into a purchase with an investor partner during Covid. Early Capital Raising Lessons First deal funded by a single $1 million investor—a stroke of luck. Learned the hard way that a tiny investor list made future raises difficult. Expanded his outreach by adding thousands of past contacts to his newsletter, enabling a $2.2M raise. Mentorship and Scaling Immediately hired a mentor to learn construction debt, repositioning, and property branding. Shifted from “softball” deals to larger renovations requiring professional systems. Twin Cities Market Strategy Avoids restrictive areas like St. Paul (rent control) and focuses on stable suburbs. Considered Nashville and Bentonville but doubled down locally due to his network and knowledge. Value-Add Execution Renovates 1960s–70s properties with $18–25K per-unit budgets. Upgrades include flooring, cabinets, granite, stainless appliances, dishwashers, and modern lighting. Strategy creates long-term, easier-to-manage assets with better tenant profiles.    

Nicole Handy is a chemical engineer turned real estate powerhouse and co-owner of Braden Real Estate Group. After more than a decade in corporate America, she transitioned into full-time real estate, where she has become one of Houston's top-producing agents. Today she leads a brokerage of 75 agents across Houston and Dallas while investing in residential and commercial real estate, building generational wealth, and mentoring the next wave of agents.     Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here.     Key Takeaways Nicole leveraged her corporate income to build her real estate business before transitioning full-time. Real estate investing runs deep in her family, shaping her views on generational wealth and long-term ownership. Building a personal brand through consistency and education has helped her stand out in a competitive market. Even during downturns, she has achieved her best years by focusing on adding value and solving client needs. Scaling from agent to brokerage owner requires documented systems and processes.     Topics From Corporate Engineer to Real Estate Entrepreneur Nicole's early real estate exposure through her grandparents' investments. Buying her first property out of college and realizing the power of appreciation. Using corporate income as a foundation before leaving to grow her brokerage. Building a Personal Brand Established her presence through consistent education and social media. Focused on being the most valuable resource to her audience, not just following trends. Braden Real Estate Group is rooted in excellence, values, and polished presentation. Navigating Market Shifts 62% of agents may have exited in 2023, but Nicole had her best year. Positioned herself as a trusted expert during slower markets. Duplexes in Houston are currently trading at discounts, providing investor opportunities. Giving Back Through Nonprofits Active supporter of Move-In Day Mafia, a nonprofit helping foster children transition into college. Provides dorm essentials, monthly care packages, and mentorship to set students up for success.    

K Trevor Thompson is a real estate investor and active syndicator based in Austin, Texas. After a long career in attractions and entertainment—including Ripley's Believe It or Not!, Guinness World Records, and iFly Indoor Skydiving—he transitioned into multifamily real estate in 2018. Since then, Trevor has invested in 34 syndications (20 as a limited partner and 14 as a general partner) and is on a mission to help 100,000 people invest in commercial real estate to achieve financial independence.     Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here.     Key Takeaways Why starting as a limited partner (LP) can provide invaluable perspective before becoming a general partner (GP). How transparency and communication from operators builds trust—and what happens when it doesn't. Lessons Trevor learned from losing $75,000 on his first GP deal. The importance of vetting the “who” in syndications, not just the numbers. Why compounding is critical: leverage makes you money, but compounding makes you wealthy.     Topics From Attractions to Real Estate Spent decades in the attractions industry before entering real estate. Always wanted to invest but mistakenly thought commercial real estate was only for millionaires. Starting as a Passive Investor Began as an LP while working full-time and traveling extensively. Learned what investors value most: responsiveness, transparency, and consistent communication. Lessons from Early Deals Experienced the downside of poor operator communication during a property fire. Gained conviction that the operator's character and competence are more important than deal marketing. Transition to GP Moved into the GP role after running out of personal capital. Lost $75,000 on his first GP deal, a setback that taught him discipline and risk awareness. Found traction by joining Massive Capital and leveraging the power of a strong, diverse team. The Importance of the “Who” Syndications succeed or fail based on the people leading them. Trevor emphasizes building partnerships with operators who think long-term and act with integrity.    

Ryan Sudeck is the CEO of Sage Investment Group, where he leads a team focused on addressing the affordable housing crisis through hotel-to-apartment conversions. With a background in mergers and acquisitions at Amazon, Samsung, and Redfin, Ryan has overseen more than 24 successful adaptive reuse projects nationwide. Under his leadership, Sage operates an evergreen fund with over 400 investors, creating high-quality, naturally affordable housing at scale.     Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here.     Key Takeaways Hotels are valued differently than apartments, creating a 40%+ value lift when converted to residential use. Sage Investment Group has completed 24 hotel-to-apartment conversions across six states, with 100–200 units per property. Units are typically 300-square-foot studios with full kitchens and modern amenities. Strong diligence on entitlements, construction, and lease-up is critical for success. Patience in acquisitions—sometimes two years per deal—is key to meeting return thresholds.     Topics From M&A to Affordable Housing Ryan's career in corporate acquisitions prepared him to lead Sage. Joined as CEO to scale a mission-driven approach to solving the housing shortage. Why Hotel Conversions Work Hotels trade at higher cap rates than apartments, creating built-in arbitrage. Conversion costs average $100K per unit—about half the replacement cost of new builds. Final product: fully renovated studios with fitness centers, coworking, and community amenities. Execution Risks and Lessons Learned Entitlements: converting from commercial to residential requires local approvals. Construction: inspections, sewer scopes, and cutting open walls before purchase to avoid surprises. Lease-up: conservative rent assumptions and regional property managers ensure stabilized occupancy. Capital Stack and Returns Evergreen fund supplies 25–35% of equity alongside LPs. Senior debt from community banks or private debt funds covers 60–75%. Renovation costs run $35K–$45K per unit; recent refis have returned significant equity. Why Not Ground-Up or Value-Add? Ground-up costs 2x more per unit and faces supply delays. Value-add multifamily is overpriced with thin margins post-2021. Conversions provide stronger risk-adjusted returns.    

Pascal Wagner is a former venture capitalist turned real estate investor who has built a $250,000 annual passive income portfolio through over 30 investments. As a VC at Techstars, he deployed $150 million into 300 companies, where he learned how top institutions analyze deals and manage risk. Today, he applies that same institutional approach to passive real estate investing while coaching others to invest with clarity and confidence.     Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here.     Key Takeaways Most passive investors make the mistake of analyzing deals in isolation instead of starting with a clear investment thesis. Institutional investors use a scientific method—macro themes first, then micro criteria, then deal selection. Diversification is essential: Pascal built co-living homes in Atlanta but realized his mom's retirement couldn't rest on one asset class or city. Following institutional or family office investors can provide a safer entry point for LPs. Separate your “cash flow bucket” from your “equity growth bucket” to align investments with goals.     Topics From Techstars to Real Estate Built early wealth through co-living rentals before joining Techstars as an investor. Learned institutional-level due diligence by reviewing thousands of deals. After his father's passing, managed his mother's retirement income and shifted focus to reliable passive strategies. How Institutions Invest Define a thesis first, then filter deals that fit. See hundreds of opportunities before investing in a few. Don't chase returns—find inevitable long-term trends and align investments accordingly. Developing Guardrails for LP Investing Criteria like vintage, roof types, and market selection come from experience and costly lessons. Partnering with operators who have already learned those lessons is critical. Institutional investors demand reporting, audits, and controls—retail investors can “follow” their lead. Buckets of Cash Flow vs. Equity Growth Co-living homes and private credit provide stable cash flow. High-risk equities (tech stocks, crypto) are placed in long-term equity growth buckets. Structured his mother's long-term holdings for inheritance tax advantages while using his own portfolio for near-term cash needs.    

Michael Gifford is the CEO and co-founder of Splitero, a financial technology company helping homeowners unlock home equity without adding more debt or monthly payments. A longtime real estate investor and licensed broker, Michael has flipped hundreds of properties across the West Coast and now focuses on scalable solutions that solve the challenges of trapped equity for homeowners and investors alike.     Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here.     Key Takeaways Splitero provides homeowners cash upfront—up to $500K—without monthly payments. Instead of debt, the product shares in a portion of the home's future value. Qualification is simple: as low as a 500 FICO and minimal documentation. Investors can also benefit by unlocking equity from investment properties without disturbing low-rate mortgages. Consumer protection and transparency are central to making the product accessible and trustworthy.     Topics From Fix-and-Flip to FinTech Michael started in 2009 buying foreclosures, scaling to 100+ transactions a year from San Diego to Seattle. Realized fix-and-flip was not scalable due to construction demands. Shifted focus to lending and eventually to building Splitero. How Splitero Works Homeowners receive a lump sum of cash today in exchange for sharing a portion of their home's future value. No monthly payments; repayment happens at maturity or sale. A homeowner protection cap ensures fair repayment limits. Why It's Different from Traditional Debt Unlike HELOCs or cash-out refinances, Splitero doesn't require high credit scores, income documentation, or DTI ratios. Qualification is faster and simpler—just a driver's license and mortgage statement. Works for both homeowners and investors with trapped equity. Adoption Challenges and Consumer Education Biggest hurdle: awareness of a non-debt equity option. Splitero emphasizes education, disclosures, and licensed staff to explain the product. State-level work underway to provide additional guidelines and oversight.    

Jessie Dillon is a Massachusetts-based beauty salon owner turned real estate investor and mentor. Since starting in 2021, she has built a portfolio of over 50 units, primarily long-term rentals, while also managing short- and mid-term rentals. Jessie specializes in partnerships, scaling through collaboration after quickly realizing the limitations of investing solo.     Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here.     Key Takeaways Jessie transitioned from solo investor to partnerships after running out of capital. Attending conferences like BP Con shifted her mindset and opened doors to strategic relationships. She uses a clear, intentional process for identifying and attracting capital partners. Building a portfolio requires patience—sometimes long stretches of “no deals” precede major breakthroughs. Aligning partnerships and balancing equity-building with cash flow are key to long-term success.     Topics From Beauty Salon Owner to Real Estate Investor Began investing in 2021 with three small multifamily properties. Quickly tapped out of capital and realized the need for partnerships. Overcoming Resistance to Partnerships Initially hesitant due to her solo entrepreneurial background. A breakthrough at BP Con 2022 reframed partnerships as essential for scaling. Building Partnerships Intentionally Created an avatar of her ideal partner and listed 50 potential connections. Sent messages asking for referrals, which led to her first successful capital partner. Replicated this process to form additional partnerships. Deal Criteria and Strategy Focused on value-add multifamily between 8–15 units, ~$80K per door. Looks for proforma rents at least 1.5% of purchase price. Now pivoting toward more cash-flow-heavy assets like self-storage and short-term rentals. The Role of Mentorship and Community Found mentors through BiggerPockets and Women Invest in Real Estate (WIIRE). Attends retreats and conferences to stay surrounded by action-takers. Emphasizes balancing education with taking action.    

Chris Naugle is America's #1 money mentor, a former pro snowboarder turned entrepreneur and founder of The Money School. He has built and managed multiple businesses, authored books on wealth, and now teaches people how to take back control of their finances using the infinite banking concept. Through his methods, Chris has helped thousands of investors and entrepreneurs rethink how money really works.    

Derrick Barker is the co-founder and CEO of Nectar, a flexible capital platform for experienced real estate operators. He began buying property from his Harvard dorm room, later traded structured bonds at Goldman Sachs while scaling to 500+ units, and now oversees thousands of units while helping operators unlock growth with portfolio-backed capital.    

Dave Kotter is the CEO and President of Hybrid Debt Fund and Integrity Capital LLC, with over $2 billion in funded loans. He specializes in private credit solutions that bridge the gap between traditional bank financing and equity, offering innovative stretch senior loans that provide higher leverage while allowing sponsors to retain more control and equity upside.    

Jason Kenney is a real estate investor and founder of Novo Capital Management. After a career in financial services and multiple corporate relocations, he launched his investing company in 2019 and left corporate in 2023 to focus exclusively on real estate. Jason now invests primarily in multifamily syndications and creates education for aspiring passive investors on YouTube.    

Mark Kohler is a bestselling author, entrepreneur, attorney, CPA, and the founding and senior partner at KKOS Lawyers. Specializing in tax, legal, wealth, estate, and asset protection planning, Mark has helped thousands of small business owners and investors align their tax strategies with their real estate and business goals. He is also the host of The Main Street Business Podcast and Directed IRA Podcast, educating entrepreneurs on practical ways to build wealth and save taxes.    

Brandon Rickman is a seasoned real estate investor and entrepreneur who has flipped over 500 houses and owned both short- and long-term rentals. He has raised private money for multiple projects, operates a private lending business, and is currently developing a three-story A-class self-storage facility outside of Atlanta. With over two decades of experience, Brandon has scaled from small residential projects to multimillion-dollar commercial ventures.    

Gary Harper is the founder and CEO of Sharper Business Solutions and co-creator of the Rise Business Framework. After a successful career as a corporate executive, Gary transitioned to real estate and later business coaching, helping over 4,000 entrepreneurs grow and systematize their operations. His work blends deep business strategy with a purpose-driven mission to empower others while supporting meaningful causes.    

Dr. Alex Schloe is a board-certified family medicine physician, entrepreneur, and real estate investor. After facing burnout while working in the military and hospital systems, Alex turned to real estate to regain freedom and impact. Today, he focuses on residential assisted living and co-hosts The Real Room podcast while helping other physicians build time-leveraged wealth through Open Range Capital.    

Kylan Yarbrough began his journey in multifamily real estate at just 17 years old. By 19, he had already advanced to regional property manager, and today he brings an owner-operator mindset to his 195 multifamily units. With a background rooted in ground-level operations and a passion for improving communities, Kylan is also developing property management software to bridge the communication gap between owners and operators.    

Stephen Predmore is the founder and managing partner of Talbott Investments. A former engineer with over 20 years of experience in the manufacturing industry, Stephen transitioned into real estate after a sudden layoff. Since then, he's grown from single-family investor to general partner in multifamily, specializing in JV structures and educating engineers on passive investing strategies.    

Gian Pazzia is a seasoned cost segregation expert and structural engineer who has spent over 25 years helping real estate investors unlock powerful tax strategies. As a former engineer at Arthur Andersen and current leader at costsegregation.com and KBKG, Gian has worked with everyone from small landlords to major casinos and Fortune 500 companies to help them accelerate depreciation and reduce their tax burdens.    

Nic McGrue is the founder of Polymath Legal PC, a boutique law firm focused on helping real estate investors lawfully raise capital through syndications. With over a decade of experience and licenses in California and Washington, Nic specializes in securities law and real estate partnerships. He's also a tenured business law professor who brings both legal and practical insight to every client, helping them raise money legally while protecting themselves and their investors.    

Lissette Calderon is the founder and CEO of Neology Group, a vertically integrated, impact-driven development firm based in Miami. As the first Latina to lead a major development firm in her hometown, she's led the transformation of the Miami River and Allapattah neighborhoods through “attainable luxury”—providing high-quality, amenitized housing for the local workforce. With over 1,500 units developed and more on the way, Lissette proves that profitability and purpose can—and should—coexist.    

Sid Shamim is the founder and CEO of Headway Capital, a vertically integrated real estate investment firm based in Houston, TX. With a background in engineering and a career in oil and gas, Sid transitioned into real estate full-time after building a single-family portfolio and identifying key inefficiencies in property management. Today, Headway Capital manages a $600M+ multifamily portfolio across Texas and Arizona, with over 200 employees and a mission to build enduring teams and cash-flowing assets.    

Tomás Fonseca is the co-founder of Icons of Real Estate, the world's largest real estate podcast network. With a background in SEO and digital marketing, Tomás pivoted to podcasting after realizing its unmatched power to build relationships and generate business. He now oversees production of 70+ podcasts tailored to real estate professionals—helping them attract clients, build authority, and raise capital through meaningful guest conversations.    

Mike Cossette is an award-winning RE/MAX broker and co-owner of RE/MAX Gateway in Austin, TX. With over 20 years of experience, Mike has built an impressive investment portfolio of 18 properties—including multifamily units, Airbnbs, and even a private island. Known for blending lifestyle, creativity, and strategic investing, he helps clients and fellow agents scale sustainably while leveraging both real estate licenses and entrepreneurial grit.    

John Carlson is the CEO of Mark-Taylor Residential and a multifamily veteran with over 20 years of experience in real estate operations and leadership. He began his journey as a resident in one of the company's properties and rose through the ranks with a deep commitment to service, people-first culture, and long-term investment strategy. Today, he oversees a $10+ billion portfolio and is known for championing data-driven decision-making and organizational growth through purpose-driven leadership.    

Jessie Lang is a real estate investor, author, and educator who scaled her rental portfolio from 11 to over 70 units in just a few years. Based in Columbus, Ohio, Jessie specializes in the BRRRR method, systems-based renovations, and portfolio management with a lean remote team. She is the author of Rentals Made Easy, a tactical step-by-step guide for scaling rental properties with clarity, confidence, and consistency.    

Stephen Petasky is the founder and CEO of The Luxus Group, a hospitality and development firm specializing in luxury vacation homes, global restorations, and high-end resort communities. Over nearly two decades, he's raised more than $100 million, facilitated 20,000 vacations, and partnered with brands like Four Seasons to deliver premium lifestyle experiences through real estate. His business journey spans from fractional home ownership to international development, all driven by a passion for design, family travel, and scalability.     Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here. Key Takeaways Stephen started Luxus by solving his own problem—traveling with young kids—and turned that into a $100M global vacation home portfolio. Raising capital gets easier when the investment includes a dual purpose, like lifestyle use alongside financial return. Scaling a business requires building it “back to front”—start with the exit goal, then reverse engineer every step. Real estate and development success takes patience; some ventures took 7–10+ years to turn profitable. Subject matter expertise becomes a valuable asset after years of refinement, leading to higher-impact, lower-risk projects.     Topics How a Personal Travel Need Became a Syndicated Real Estate Venture Started Luxus to create a family-friendly alternative to hotels or inconsistent vacation rentals. Solved the problem of predictability, comfort, and flexibility by imagining ownership of 30 homes—then invited others to co-invest. Raised $3.5M to purchase three homes; word-of-mouth demand led to $100M+ raised and 50 properties acquired. Dual-Purpose Investing: Lifestyle + Returns Investors received lifestyle benefits—discounted nightly rates—alongside capital preservation. These vacation privileges created real financial savings, boosting total return beyond simple IRR metrics. Stephen compares the model to a “golf club that sells at the end”—with liquidity and upside built in. How to Make Raising Capital Easier Dual-purpose investments or vendor-aligned capital (e.g., landowners or contractors investing) make raises more compelling. Giving investors experiential or operational upside increases buy-in—even when the financial returns are moderate. Partnerships built on aligned interests are more resilient over time. Scaling With Clarity and Hindsight Luxus' new business model was built “back to front,” starting with a $100M valuation target and working backward to day one. Planning for bottlenecks—legal, financial, tech, or operational—can reduce future breakdowns. AI tools now help model scalable pathways and highlight structural weak points before launch. New Ventures: Management, Development, and Restorations Luxus now manages luxury short-term rentals it doesn't own, applying hotel-like service and strategy. Stephen is a core partner in the Four Seasons Private Residences Las Vegas ($1.3B sellout). The company also restores centuries-old Tuscan estates for North American and European clients—12 years in, with a waitlist.    

Omer Agiv is the co-founder and CEO of Faireez, an AI-powered housekeeping platform delivering hotel-style cleaning services to multifamily buildings. A serial entrepreneur with seven startups under his belt—including one acquired by Anheuser-Busch—Omer brings deep expertise in digitizing traditional industries. With Faireez, he's aiming to disrupt the outdated home cleaning model by providing on-demand, tech-enabled daily housekeeping that enhances resident lifestyle and property value.     Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here. Key Takeaways Faireez makes housekeeping a modern apartment community amenity, offering AI-powered daily cleaning services tailored to multifamily properties. The platform benefits three key groups: residents (who want convenience), property managers (seeking lifestyle-enhancing amenities), and cleaners (offered stable, respectful employment). Unlike gig economy models, Faireez partners with professional cleaning companies and assigns one “fairy” per building for consistent service. This model enables short, high-frequency cleaning sessions (15–20 minutes daily) and creates a trust-based relationship with residents. Faireez enhances NOI for property owners while offering residents a premium, lifestyle-driven amenity.     Topics From Beer Analytics to Domestic Tech Omer previously built and sold a startup that provided real-time beer consumption analytics for breweries worldwide. He's passionate about applying tech to “low-tech” industries—first beer, now housekeeping. Faireez was born from his frustration of working long hours and still coming home to do dishes at midnight. Housekeeping for Apartments Residents dislike daily chores and only have access to bi-weekly deep cleaning services. Property managers lack truly useful, lifestyle-enhancing amenities to differentiate their buildings. Cleaners face unstable gig work—Faireez offers full-time partnerships, insurance, and steady assignments. Why Gig Economy Models Fail in Housekeeping Previous “Uber for cleaning” startups failed due to inconsistent quality and no recurring relationships. Faireez does the opposite: one assigned cleaner (“fairy”) per building, pricing per chore (not hour), and better-than-market pay. Building trust and consistency drives better service, community engagement, and resident satisfaction. AI and Tech Machine learning optimizes routing, scheduling, and dynamic pricing per city and chore type. Faireez is piloting video-based assessments where residents film their space and get an instant plan, quote, and cleanliness score. Their systems update pricing frequently to keep it affordable while maintaining operational efficiency. Best Properties for Hotel-Style Housekeeping Class A properties with 100+ units and a family-oriented resident base. Ideal for buildings seeking to add non-rent revenue and attract renters looking for lifestyle upgrades. Especially popular with families, busy professionals, and tech-savvy urban renters.    

Patrick Pychynski is the founder of Stacking Capital and a specialist in helping entrepreneurs unlock 0% interest business funding without relying on high-interest debt or personal guarantees. A former scrap metal yard operator turned business credit strategist, Patrick now helps clients secure $50,000 to $500,000 in funding by optimizing their credit and compliance—empowering them to scale while preserving personal financial security.     Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here. Key Takeaways Patrick helps business owners secure 0% interest business credit cards—often between $50K–$500K—with little to no impact on their personal credit. These cards offer short-term financing with 6–18 month 0% periods and typically don't report to personal credit bureaus. Using these strategies can help cover renovation costs, down payments, or working capital needs when timed strategically. He stresses the difference between credit problems and cash flow problems, and why knowing the difference is key to growth. The ultimate goal is to make businesses bankable—ensuring they meet lender compliance standards for long-term financing.     Topics Unlocking 0% Interest Business Funding Focuses on business credit cards with 0% interest intro periods for 6–18 months. Uses a three-pronged approach based on credit, cash flow, or collateral—most clients qualify via credit. Cards typically do not report to personal credit, which helps preserve your debt-to-income ratio. Who This Strategy Works For Best for business owners or real estate investors with 700+ personal credit scores. Short-term capital is ideal for fix-and-flip deals, renovations, down payments, or getting a business off the ground. Should not be used by those with poor cash flow or no repayment plan in place. How to Use Credit Cards for Real Estate or Business Growth Tools like Plastiq allow you to convert credit limits into cash, incurring only a 3–6% fee. Helps investors bridge capital gaps without affecting mortgage qualification or personal DTI. Strategy can be repeated if credit is managed properly and balances are kept low after intro periods expire. From Mistakes to Mastery Patrick learned the hard way—once jailed for a contract technicality due to lack of credit and funding options. That experience sparked his passion to educate others on leveraging business credit instead of personal risk. Today, he uses software to run compliance scans that instantly show clients what financing they're eligible for. Making Your Business Bankable Emphasizes the long-term play: becoming compliant with lender standards (like business addresses, credit file structuring). Explains why 90% of businesses get denied by banks—often due to non-compliance, not creditworthiness. His software helps correct these gaps quickly, helping businesses graduate from non-bankable to bankable.    

Michael Blank is a real estate investor, author, speaker, and CEO of Nighthawk Equity. He's one of the leading authorities on apartment investing and financial freedom through multifamily real estate. With over $300 million in assets under management and author of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Michael helps investors and aspiring entrepreneurs escape the W-2 grind by acquiring multifamily properties and building sustainable income streams.     Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here. Key Takeaways Michael transitioned from tech to restaurants to real estate after early business setbacks during the 2000 and 2008 market crashes. Multifamily real estate offers superior risk-adjusted returns due to forced appreciation and operational control compared to single-family homes. Market sentiment is often wrong—investors must look past fear-based headlines and focus on long-term fundamentals. Today's market offers lower leverage, better pricing, and a strong long-term demand outlook for multifamily housing. Education and building sophistication as an investor is critical to identifying real opportunities, especially in volatile markets.     Topics Michael's Journey into Multifamily Started in corporate software; was part of a major IPO just before the 2000 tech bubble crash. Lost significant capital in restaurant franchises during the 2008 recession. Began flipping houses before discovering multifamily through a 12-unit deal in DC that eventually sparked his passion for apartments. Built Nighthawk Equity and an education platform to help others achieve financial freedom through apartment investing. Understanding Risk-Adjusted Returns Multifamily offers superior downside protection compared to many other asset classes. Operational risk (property management) can be mitigated by using professional managers. Market risk can be managed by focusing on NOI-driven valuation rather than relying on market appreciation like single-family. Investors must evaluate underwriting assumptions—rent growth, vacancy, CapEx reserves, and debt terms—to fully assess risk. Why Multifamily is Attractively Priced Today Current deals are 30% below 2021 peak prices. Leverage is lower and more conservative, reducing financial risk. Interest rates are flat or declining, improving the outlook for new acquisitions. Long-term demand remains strong due to the lack of new affordable housing supply. Investor Sentiment and Sophistication Market sentiment swings often don't reflect true investment fundamentals. Sophisticated investors like institutions are returning to the market now while many retail investors remain fearful. Successful investing requires becoming a student of the market and evaluating data beyond media headlines. Raising Capital in Today's Market Focuses heavily on education to help investors understand why now may be a great buying window. Transparency, data-driven insights, and regular communication are key to re-engaging cautious investors. Building long-term relationships and trust remains critical to capital raising success.    

Justin Burns is a digital entrepreneur, sales expert, and founder of Maestro, a platform empowering creators to monetize digital products, courses, and memberships. After transitioning from a sales career to online business in 2008, Justin has sold digital products to over 30,000 customers worldwide. He helps entrepreneurs create “digital real estate” by building scalable, location-independent businesses that generate income through education and online communities.     Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here. Key Takeaways Justin's success was built on sales mastery, perseverance, and seizing digital opportunities before they were mainstream. Digital products offer an opportunity to create income through memberships, courses, and online summits without geographical limits. Most people delay launching products while waiting for perfection — pre-launch validation is the key. Success comes from solving real problems, not from chasing money or hype. Meditation, affirmations, and mindset reprogramming play a crucial role in his long-term growth.     Topics From Sales Hustler to Digital Entrepreneur Justin started in sales at Best Buy, discovered his skillset, and later became the top salesperson at a major cell phone company. Fired from his job unexpectedly — but that opened the door to his digital business journey. A chance meeting led him to the world of digital products in 2008, before online courses became mainstream. The Power of Digital Real Estate In 2008, Justin learned people were selling digital products globally, even as most people were unaware of this growing market. Attended one of his first webinars and saw $30,000 made in an hour, which shifted his entire paradigm. Realized that failure and setbacks created momentum that allowed him to thrive in the digital space. Launching Products by Pre-Selling Teaches entrepreneurs to launch products before creating them—using simple landing pages, ads, and early buyers to validate ideas. Encourages creators to focus on the buyer's “DNA pattern”—if a few strangers buy, thousands more likely will too. Uses online summits with guest speakers as a powerful lead generation strategy for memberships and coaching programs. Shifting Mindset Through Reprogramming Early limiting beliefs around money and success were replaced with custom affirmations and daily repetition. Recorded himself reading affirmations and replayed them daily during walks to rewire his subconscious. Attributes much of his success to inner work combined with digital skill-building. Maestro and Helping Others Build Digital Empires Through Maestro, Justin helps creators build courses, memberships, and recurring revenue streams. Simplifies the tech barriers many creators face while empowering them to monetize their expertise or curate others'.    

Dr. Noah St. John is a success coach, author of over 25 books, and creator of the Power Habits® and Afformations® systems. Known as the “Father of Afformations,” he has helped entrepreneurs, real estate professionals, and CEOs break income ceilings and reclaim their time. Through his inner and outer game framework, Noah empowers people to double or triple their results in 12 weeks or less—without sacrificing their well-being.     Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here. Key Takeaways Noah teaches that success requires mastering both the inner game (beliefs, mindset) and the outer game (strategies, systems). His Power Habits® system helps clients remove “head trash” and achieve hockey-stick growth—600% or more in some cases. Afformations® are empowering questions that replace traditional affirmations and rewire the brain for success. Inner beliefs impact every area of life—health, wealth, relationships—and must be addressed to sustain growth. Entrepreneurs often struggle not from lack of effort but from mental blocks they don't know they have.     Topics The Inner and Outer Game of Success Inner game: beliefs, mindset, subconscious patterns—what drives behavior behind the scenes. Outer game: visible strategies like marketing, systems, sales funnels. Success comes when both are aligned—most people over-focus on one and neglect the other. Power Habits® Framework Developed after decades of studying what top performers do unconsciously. Based on 11 core habits—most people start with Afformations® as a powerful foundation. Noah's clients often break through income ceilings and reclaim 1–3 hours per day within weeks. Afformations® vs. Affirmations Traditional affirmations (e.g., “I am rich”) often feel fake and are rejected by the subconscious. Afformations® flip statements into questions (e.g., “Why am I so rich?”) to trigger the brain to find validating evidence. This method helps focus on what you have, not what you lack—shifting identity and reinforcing belief. How Trauma and Limiting Beliefs Block Growth Noah's system identifies “head trash”—the mental blocks that cause self-sabotage. Most people drive through life with one foot on the gas and one foot on the brake. Removing internal resistance allows rapid external growth. Real-World Results Client Charles gained $1.8M in 10 months after adopting Noah's system. Another client scaled from six figures to multi-billion-dollar hotel deals. Outcomes are repeatable across industries by aligning mindset and actions.    

Michael Hoffmann, also known as “Mr. Passive,” is a real estate investor, vending entrepreneur, and advocate for time freedom through smart investing. Starting from humble beginnings in rural Iowa and a 60-hour-a-week coaching job, Mike leveraged a $70,000 fixer-upper into a thriving portfolio—including real estate, vending machines, e-commerce, and Bitcoin mining. He now teaches others how to create scalable passive income using creativity, trends, and delegation.     Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here. Key Takeaways Mike started his investing journey with a $1,200/month salary and turned a small rental into a life of financial flexibility. He follows a 30-60-90 rule to make every investment passive within the first 90 days. Vending routes and unattended retail offer high-margin, scalable passive income opportunities beyond traditional real estate. He uses trends and automation—like AI-based vending—to identify untapped markets. Asset flexibility and time buyback are central to his investment philosophy.     Topics From $1,200 a Month to Passive Investor Started in college athletics making just $1,200/month while working 60+ hours per week. Bought a $70K turnkey rental and later scaled through 1031 exchanges. Focused early on delegating property management to stay hands-off. Creative Wealth-Building with Real Estate Leveraged 1% rule and capital gains to buy a condo, then pivoted to short-term rentals in high-growth areas. Built and rented out an ADU in Oregon to double rental income from a single lot. Invested in land outside city limits and is developing duplexes permitted as townhomes for long-term flexibility. Unattended Retail: The 21st Century Lemonade Stand Owns 100+ vending machine locations generating $100K/month. Transitioned from old-school machines to smart, AI-enabled retail kiosks offering allergy meds, protein bars, and over-the-counter products. Hires route operators from the gig economy and uses GMs to stay completely passive in the business. Passive Income Across Asset Classes Invests in Bitcoin mining, e-commerce, and unattended markets. Believes in analyzing trends and entering where customer needs are evolving. Inspired by a vending machine experience at an airport that charged $3 for water—realized someone was profiting while he was grinding.