Podcast appearances and mentions of craig curelop

Most of the co-living world runs on PadSplit — but Craig and Miller don't operate on it themselves. So they invited a PadSplit insider to explain exactly how it works.Suzanne Vetillart, a Host Advisor at PadSplit and an 8-year Seattle investor, joins the show to demystify the platform: what it is, who it's for, what it costs, and why the affordable housing opportunity is only getting bigger. From the membership agreement and fee structure to the early-adopter advantage in markets like Seattle, this episode is a clear, honest look at PadSplit from someone on the inside — useful whether you're a host on the platform or operating right alongside it.A standout takeaway: stop thinking of PadSplit as a vendor and start thinking of it as a partner. They bring the platform and the marketing muscle; you bring the operations — and together you solve the affordability crisis while building a real business.Follow along: Craig Curelop → instagram.com/craigcurelop Miller McSwain → instagram.com/millermcswain Suzanne Vetillart → instagram.com/suzannevetillart

In this episode of The Co-Living Show, Craig Curelop and Miller McSwain sit down with twins Hem and Harsh, the operators behind CH Room Rentals, to unpack how they scaled from their first house hack to 7 co-living homes and 35 rooms in just a couple of years.Hem and Harsh share their story of immigrating to the U.S. from India, working full-time through college, saving aggressively, and using house hacking as their entry point into real estate. What started as one 5-bedroom home in Charlotte quickly turned into a repeatable co-living model built around furnished rooms, strong tenant retention, self-management, and family partnership.This conversation is especially valuable for newer co-living investors who are trying to figure out what the next few steps look like after buying their first property.In this episode, we cover:- How Hem and Harsh scaled to 7 homes and 35 rooms- Why 5 bed / 3 bath homes are working in their market- How they use house hacking to keep acquisition costs low- The benefits and challenges of running a family-owned co-living business- Why they chose to self-manage instead of using PadSplit- How furnished rooms help them command higher rents and improve retention- Their favorite platforms for finding tenants, including Facebook Marketplace and Furnished Finder- How they keep vacancy low without overcomplicating operations- What they learned from their first eviction- Why local REI groups and co-living communities helped accelerate their growth- Their next phase: new construction co-living homesThe episode also includes a community Q&A about rising utility costs and how co-living operators can respond when expenses increase faster than rents.Join The Co-Living Community on Facebook to connect with other operators, ask questions, and learn from people actively building co-living portfolios.Follow Miller: @millermcswain Follow Craig: @thecraigcurelop Learn more about CoLivingPro: colivingpro.io

In this episode, Craig Curelop and Miller McSwain sit down with co-living investor Travis Schwartz to talk about one of the biggest debates in the co-living space: Should you self-manage your rooms, or use a platform like PadSplit?Travis brings a unique perspective. After starting out by building his own systems, managing leads, and filling rooms himself, he eventually moved his portfolio onto PadSplit. That decision helped him simplify operations, cut down on manual lead management, and shift his focus back to acquisitions.And the results were significant.Travis bought 12 co-living houses in one year, mostly in the Dallas-Fort Worth market, using a strategy built around high cash flow, aggressive renovations, and long-term holds.Craig and Miller challenge Travis on the tradeoffs of PadSplit, including fees, platform risk, saturation, and whether it still makes sense at scale. Travis also shares what he has learned from renovations, appraisals, permits, tenant retention, and building software for PadSplit hosts through PadPulse.In this episode, we discuss: How Travis got into co-living after years as an entrepreneur  Why he bought three houses at once when he started  His target of under $40,000 per finished room  Why he focuses on cash flow more than short-term equity  The hidden risk of negative equity in co-living renovations  How PadSplit changed his operations  The pros and cons of relying on a third-party platform  Why some markets become saturated faster than others  How to think about amenities, pricing, and tenant retention  Why offering a discount to a good resident can be cheaper than turnover  What Travis is building with PadPulse  His long-term vision for co-living and private equity Connect with Travis: PadPulse: padpulse.io Email: travis@padpulse.ioLinkedIn: Travis SchwartzFollow the hosts: Miller McSwain: www.instagram.com/millermcswain Craig Curelop: www.instagram.com/craigcurelopJoin the free Co-Living Community: www.millermcswain.com/communityIf you enjoyed this episode, leave a rating and review, and share it with another investor who is trying to scale their co-living portfolio.

In this episode, Craig Curelop shares his journey from real estate investor to top agent, emphasizing house hacking as a powerful wealth-building strategy. Discover practical tips, market insights, and the future of co-living investments.   Professional Real Estate Investors - How we can help you: Investor Fuel Mastermind:  Learn more about the Investor Fuel Mastermind, including 100% deal financing, massive discounts from vendors and sponsors you're already using, our world class community of over 150 members, and SO much more here: http://www.investorfuel.com/apply   Investor Machine Marketing Partnership:  Are you looking for consistent, high quality lead generation? Investor Machine is America's #1 lead generation service professional investors. Investor Machine provides true 'white glove' support to help you build the perfect marketing plan, then we'll execute it for you…talking and working together on an ongoing basis to help you hit YOUR goals! Learn more here: http://www.investormachine.com   Coaching with Mike Hambright:  Interested in 1 on 1 coaching with Mike Hambright? Mike coaches entrepreneurs looking to level up, build coaching or service based businesses (Mike runs multiple 7 and 8 figure a year businesses), building a coaching program and more. Learn more here: https://investorfuel.com/coachingwithmike   Attend a Vacation/Mastermind Retreat with Mike Hambright: Interested in joining a "mini-mastermind" with Mike and his private clients on an upcoming "Retreat", either at locations like Cabo San Lucas, Napa, Park City ski trip, Yellowstone, or even at Mike's East Texas "Big H Ranch"? Learn more here: http://www.investorfuel.com/retreat   Property Insurance: Join the largest and most investor friendly property insurance provider in 2 minutes. Free to join, and insure all your flips and rentals within minutes! There is NO easier insurance provider on the planet (turn insurance on or off in 1 minute without talking to anyone!), and there's no 15-30% agent mark up through this platform!  Register here: https://myinvestorinsurance.com/   New Real Estate Investors - How we can work together: Investor Fuel Club (Coaching and Deal Partner Community): Looking to kickstart your real estate investing career? Join our one of a kind Coaching Community, Investor Fuel Club, where you'll get trained by some of the best real estate investors in America, and partner with them on deals! You don't need $ for deals…we'll partner with you and hold your hand along the way! Learn More here: http://www.investorfuel.com/club   —--------------------

In this episode of The Co-Living Show, we sit down with Franco Montano, a seasoned operator managing 600+ co-living rooms (and owning 150+ himself), to break down what it actually takes to scale a co-living portfolio.Franco shares how he transitioned from running a 42-location T-Mobile business with 750 employees into real estate—and why co-living became his highest ROI strategy.If you're serious about building a cash-flowing co-living portfolio, this episode is packed with real-world insights you won't hear anywhere else.

In this week's episode of Living Off Rentals, we are joined by an investor and author who turned a simple strategy into a powerful wealth-building machine. Craig Curelop began his real estate journey as a house hacker in Denver and reached financial freedom in just two and a half years. He is the author of "The House Hacking Strategy," has completed multiple house hacks, and now helps investors across the country build wealth through real estate. Listen as he shares how he went from struggling to find the right realtor to building a thriving investor-focused real estate business. He also breaks down why house hacking still works today, how co-living is unlocking serious cash flow in high-cost markets, and what newer investors should really focus on if they want to get ahead.  Enjoy the show! Key Takeaways: [00:00] Introducing Craig Curelop and his background [03:26] His journey into house hacking [05:27] The $10K commission that changed everything [08:56] You can't compare today's deals to the past [09:23] Co-living: the strategy driving cash flow today [10:28] What house hacking really means [11:51] Ideal property setup for co-living deals [13:46] Evaluating deals for clients [17:43] Real example of a co-living deal and its returns [19:34] Who rents co-living spaces [21:57] Should investors become realtors? [23:05] Financing options for house hacking and co-living [24:33] The truth about BRRRR in today's market [26:24] Connect with Craig Curelop [27:06] Advice for new investors starting out [28:37] Outro Guest Links: Website: https://www.thefiteam.com/  Show Links: Living Off Rentals YouTube Channel – youtube.com/c/LivingOffRentals  Living Off Rentals YouTube Podcast Channel - youtube.com/c/LivingOffRentalsPodcast  Living Off Rentals Facebook Group – facebook.com/groups/livingoffrentals  Living Off Rentals Website – https://www.livingoffrentals.com/  Living Off Rentals Instagram – instagram.com/livingoffrentals  Living Off Rentals TikTok – tiktok.com/@livingoffrentals   

The Co-Living Lending Playbook: How Smart Investors Structure DealsFinancing is the part of co-living that most investors underestimate… until a deal almost falls apart.In this episode of The Co-Living Show, Miller McSwain and Craig Curelop sit down with Jessica Khani, a top 1% loan originator and real estate investor who has helped structure and close a large portion of their portfolio. They break down what actually happens behind the scenes of getting deals funded—and why the right lender is often the difference between scaling and getting stuck.This is not theory. These are real stories, real deals, and real mistakes.

In this episode of The Co-Living Show, Miller McSwain and Craig Curelop sit down with Alfredo Goytia, a co-living operator who scaled from 0 to 800 doors in just 12 months.This is not theory—this is real-world execution.Alfredo breaks down exactly how he built a high-performance co-living operation, including: The systems required to scale from small portfolios to hundreds of doors  Why co-living operations are more about processes than properties How automation and tech replace traditional property management models  The biggest mistakes operators make when trying to scale  Why managing 8 tenants vs 800 tenants comes down to systems—not complexity We also dive into: Transitioning from traditional rentals to co-living  Property management software and tools for scaling  Lead flow, tenant communication, and operational bottlenecks  The mindset shift required to operate at scale If you're serious about co-living investing, scaling rental portfolios, or building systems-driven real estate businesses, this is one of the most tactical episodes we've ever recorded.As Alfredo shares, scaling isn't about doing more work, it's about building better systems. 

Scaling a co-living business isn't about buying more properties.It's about building systems that actually work.In this episode of The Co-Living Show, Miller McSwain and Craig Curelop sit down with Dave Edwards—an experienced co-living operator who has managed over 400 rooms—to break down the real operational systems behind scaling co-living rentals successfully.If you're a real estate investor, house hacker, or co-living operator trying to increase cash flow, improve occupancy, and streamline property management, this episode gives you a behind-the-scenes look at what it actually takes to run co-living at scale.

From $400K Loss to Lending Millions: The Co-Living Comeback StoryIn this episode, we're joined by Fernando Corona, a co-living lender who's helped investors close hundreds of deals—and built his business after losing over $400,000.We break down the real path to success in co-living: failure, resilience, and learning how to solve problems most investors avoid.Fernando shares how he: Went from zero income to owning multiple co-living properties  Built a lending business by solving his own financing problems  Uses creative loan strategies to help investors scale faster We also dive into: DSCR loans vs. bank statement loans  Financing renovations into your purchase  Why most investors misunderstand risk  How to think like an operator, not just an investor 

In this episode of The Co-Living Show, Craig Curelop and Miller McSwain are joined by Jordan Smith, a co-living operator who has built a 30-bedroom portfolio with a strong focus on systems, automation, and operational efficiency.Jordan breaks down how he got started with his first house hack, what the numbers looked like on that first deal, and how his background in management consulting shaped the way he now runs his portfolio. The conversation covers lead generation, pre-screening, automations, communication systems, maintenance workflows, tenant issues, and the operational mindset required to scale co-living well.They also discuss why co-living should be treated like a real business, not just a real estate strategy, and why investors need to think carefully about return on equity as they grow.If you want a more practical look at what it takes to build a sustainable co-living operation, this episode is for you.Connect with the hosts: Miller McSwain: www.instagram.com/millermcswain Craig Curelop: www.instagram.com/craigcurelopConnect with Jordan Smith: Instagram: www.instagram.com/smith.t.jordan

In this episode of The Co-Living Show, Craig Curelop and Miller McSwain are joined by co-living pioneer Clara Arroyave, who scaled a 160-room co-living portfolio generating nearly $2M annually using the arbitrage model.Clara shares how she filled rooms without paid marketing by partnering directly with employers, universities, and HR departments, how her portfolio grew rapidly in Boston, and what ultimately happened when COVID disrupted the arbitrage model.She also explains the lessons she learned from scaling quickly, why arbitrage shouldn't be your long-term strategy, and how she's now focused on purpose-built co-living developments.Topics covered include:• Building a 160-room co-living portfolio• Filling rooms through employer and university partnerships• The risks of the arbitrage model• Designing co-living properties that maximize occupancy• Why private bathrooms increase tenant retention• The future of co-living housingIf you're investing in co-living, house hacking, or room-by-room rentals, this episode provides real insights from someone who has operated at scale.Follow the hosts and guest:Craig Curelop – https://instagram.com/craigcurelopMiller McSwain – https://instagram.com/millermcswainClara Arroyave – https://instagram.com/lifeisrocknroll

In this episode of The Co-Living Show, Craig Curelop and Miller McSwain welcome Harrison DeMaira, a large-scale co-living operator with experience managing everything from small townhouse conversions to 100+ unit buildings and 400-unit purpose-built co-living developments.Harrison breaks down what changes when you scale co-living into multifamily—and what operators get wrong when they assume co-living leases like traditional rentals. We cover the real leasing funnel, scrappy marketing that still works (signage + employer outreach), the operational systems you must build early, and how to think about furnishing, unit design, and resident experience at scale.We also unpack:What Common Living was and why it went defunct (and what co-living operators can learn from it)Why Harrison avoids 2-bedroom co-living unitsThe bathroom-to-resident rule he won't breakWhy leasing + marketing is the foundation that makes everything else easierOutsourcing earlier (and the accounting mistake most operators make)And an unforgettable operations story involving an emotional support duck and a missing snakeIf you're trying to fill rooms faster, scale beyond one property, or understand what multifamily co-living really looks like—this episode is for you.Follow the hosts:Miller McSwain: https://www.instagram.com/millermcswainCraig Curelop: https://www.instagram.com/craigcurelopGuest: Harrison DeMairaEmail: hpd@harrisondemaira.comIf you enjoyed the episode, please follow the show and leave a rating/review, it helps more operators find the podcast.

In this tactical episode of The Co-Living Show, hosts Miller McSwain and Craig Curelop sit down with Colorado investor and agent Tanner Pyle to unpack one of the most creative deals you'll hear this year:

In this episode of The Co-Living Show, Craig Curelop and Miller McSwain sit down with Caitlyn Verdugo — aka Co-Living Cait — an Atlanta-based co-living agent, investor, operator, capital raiser, and coach who's been in the space since the early PadSplit days.Atlanta is one of the most mature co-living ecosystems in the U.S., and Caitlyn has seen the model evolve from “rent-by-the-room” experiments into a real operating business. She shares what she's learned from acquiring and running co-living homes, how she approaches conversions (including garage builds), and why she intentionally designs each house to feel like a home — not a template.This conversation is packed with operator-level nuance: screening beyond platform checks, searching local eviction records, managing resident conflict without becoming a mediator, and how to build systems that protect your time while improving resident experience.In This Episode, We Cover:Caitlyn's origin story: real estate agent → house hacker → co-living operatorHow she used her real estate commission creatively to reduce money needed to buyWhy Atlanta's market maturity makes PadSplit a major factor in marketing + leasingLessons from her first co-living conversion (capital gaps, holding costs, and what she'd do differently)What she looks for in co-living properties: layouts, vintage builds, no HOA, conversion potentialGarage conversions: HVAC strategies, insulation, code risks, and payback vs. “ROI” framingHer signature approach: naming houses + themed rooms to enhance resident experienceThe screening stack: forms, interviews, and why she checks eviction records manuallyHow she prevents resident conflict with boundaries, addendums, and expectationsHandling tenant-landlord conflict fast (and why respect is non-negotiable)Women in co-living: safety realities, contractor dynamics, and solving problems differentlyBuilding She Leads Co-Living / Wealth By The Room to support women operatorsHow to find operators in your market (Facebook groups, meetups, and “search within groups” strategy)The Big 3: a tenant horror story, her first house rule, and her most valuable operating systemFollow the HostsMiller McSwain: www.instagram.com/millermcswain Craig Curelop: www.instagram.com/craigcurelopJoin our FREE Community: www.millermcswain.com/communityGuest: Caitlyn “CoLiving Cait” VerdugoFind her as CoLiving Cait across social platforms and check out her community:She Leads Co-Living (women-focused events + network)Wealth By The Room (education + coaching series)Instagram: www.instagram.com/colivingcait

Welcome to Episode 1 of The Co-Living Show — where hosts Craig Curelop and Miller McSwain break down how to build real cash flow with room-by-room rentals.In this first full episode, we lay the foundation: Why co-living is misunderstood, what most investors get wrong, and how Craig + Miller approach the strategy from two different seats — growth + acquisitions (Craig) and operations + systems (Miller). You'll also hear their personal stories, how Miller scaled to 7 properties / 51 rooms, why networking changed everything, and how this partnership (and podcast) came to be.No hype. No fluff. Just the real numbers, renovations, zoning, and operations behind co-living.Join the free community: millermcswain.com/community Leave a rating + review and share this with an investor who's serious about co-living.

I had two millionaire real estate investors visit Maui last week. So naturally, we sat down and recorded a podcast.Craig Curelop (house hacking legend, founder of The FI Team) and Mike Brockway (luxury short-term rental expert) joined Cam and me to talk about the single pieces of advice that completely changed our financial trajectories.Here's what's wild: none of us became millionaires because we worked harder. We became millionaires because someone gave us advice that shifted how we thought about building wealth.In this episode:The BiggerPockets forum post that changed my entire life (and why I still have it printed out 20 years later)Why the "bucket vs. pipeline" story from Cashflow Quadrant made me a MULTI-millionaireCraig's house hacking journey and why "living like no one else" is more than just frugalityMike's short-term rental empire and the power of getting around the right peopleCam's BRRRR breakthrough (and why it doesn't work the same way in 2026)The difference between advice that makes you a millionaire vs. advice that makes you a MULTI-millionaireWhy systems beat hustle every single timeHow to surround yourself with people who make the impossible look like a Tuesday morningThe thread throughout this entire conversation? None of this was complicated. But it required us to actually listen and implement instead of just nodding our heads.REI Summit 2026 is happening April 1–3 in Austin, Texas. Grab your ticket at REISUMMIT2026.com and use code CAM10 for 10% off.Connect with Craig Curelop: https://www.instagram.com/thefiguy/?hl=enConnect with Mike Brockway: https://www.instagram.com/mikebrockway_/?hl=en

Hey, Real Estate Rockstars! In this conversation, Craig Curelop shares his journey into real estate, highlighting his transition from investor to realtor and the unique niche he carved out as an investor-friendly agent. Craig discusses the importance of building a supportive team, managing operations remotely, and effective recruitment strategies. He emphasizes the value of house hacking and co-living as viable investment strategies, especially in today's market. Craig also shares insights on lead generation through personal networks and the significance of authenticity in real estate, culminating in his experience writing books to further educate and inspire others in the industry. Tune in to learn more! Links: Check out Craig Curelop's Website Follow Craig Curelop on Instagram Follow Sara Denig on Instagram  Follow Christina Leavenworth on Instagram  Follow Aaron Amuchastegui on Instagram  Get Hundreds of FREE Real Estate Tools From the Toolbox  Join the 2026 Mastermind: Get your tickets HERE! 

After over five years and more than 260 episodes, host Craig Curelop, known as The FI Guy and a leading voice in real estate investing and financial independence, announces the bittersweet farewell of the Invest2FI Podcast. In this short but heartfelt episode, Craig reflects on the podcast's incredible journey, lessons learned from scaling and focus, and what's next for his ventures in co-living, real estate investing, and coaching.  Gain insight into his mindset shift, upcoming projects with The FI Team and HomeCrew.co, and how to stay connected as Craig continues to inspire investors nationwide. PODCAST HIGHLIGHTS: [00:19] Farewell announcement and reflections on five transformative years of Invest2FI.[00:29] Craig explains his decision to discontinue the podcast and lessons from Scaling.com. [01:18] Insights from Benjamin Hardy and learning to eliminate tasks “below the floor.” [02:02] Shifting focus to The FI Team's mission to reduce the U.S. retirement age to 55. [02:20] Deep dive into co-living investments and operational scaling strategies. [02:52] Discussing future growth models including franchising and investor funds. [03:34] Why co-living aligns with solving America's housing affordability crisis. [04:07] Craig assures continued real estate work and support for investors nationwide. [05:01] Details on property management structure and criteria for co-living homes. [05:52] Heartfelt goodbye, gratitude to listeners, and an invitation to stay connected. HOST Craig Curelop    

What if real estate could rebuild lives while building lasting wealth? In this 45-minute episode of Invest2FI, host Craig Curelop welcomes back real estate investor Jim Boad for an in-depth conversation about scaling success through trust, discipline, and purpose. Jim shares how he pivoted during COVID from struggling rentals to sober-living group homes that blend community impact with strong returns.  Operating in a small Washington market near Olympia, he explains his model of five-bedroom, three-bath homes renting for $700 per bed, often partnered with recovery clinics and DOC reentry programs that prepay several months in advance.  Jim also discusses leveraging $100K–$200K grants, launching a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and working with private lenders at two points and ten percent interest to fund and scale 18 new builds. This episode reveals how purpose-driven investing can generate both financial freedom and meaningful community change. PODCAST HIGHLIGHTS: [03:42] Craig tees up the sober living deep dive with Jim's backstory. [04:00] COVID nonpaying rentals force Jim to pivot toward group homes. [5:24] Buys a $500 coaching course overnight and launches within a week. [07:39] Converts rentals into sober living homes and adds extra bedrooms. [09:41] Payment totals $2,700 monthly; collects $7,000 using per-bed rent. [11:03] Residents' stays are prepaid for two to six months by recovery programs. [12:01] Operations manager Shay handles calls, phones, and food support. [15:31] Random drug testing; any failed test leads to immediate removal. [18:00] Explains the drug-free rule to maintain state and grant compliance. [20:47] Research areas by mapping local clinics and case manager networks. [24:03] Expands via referrals from agencies impressed with his housing quality. [27:36] Keeps furnishing simple, durable furniture, storage, and ready rooms only. [28:12] Secures $200,000 in grant funding and forms a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. [30:26] Grants fund operations, staff, utilities, and resident scholarships. [32:26] Now building 18 homes, start two, refinance, then repeat the process. [34:20] Private lenders fund projects at two points and ten percent interest. [34:51] He met his main lender at a bar, proof that valuable connections can happen anywhere. [36:16] Keeps 30–35% equity to build long-term legacy instead of chasing quick profits. [41:37] Advises new investors to start small and build credibility through consistency. [42:26] Success story: one property doubled in value through patience and discipline.  HOST Craig Curelop    

Ever wondered how to invest in one of the most expensive housing markets in America and still make it profitable? In this inspiring episode of Invest2FI, host Craig Curelop is with Yoni Kaszynski, a scrappy real estate investor who turned a high-cost Seattle market into a powerful cash-flow machine. Yoni reveals how he financed his projects with a 0% AMEX card, filled rooms through Facebook Marketplace, and managed construction chaos while working full-time. He shares candid insights on finding reliable contractors, scaling property management, and achieving financial independence through real estate—without overcomplicating the process.  If you've ever wondered how to start investing on a budget or turn a small deal into a freedom-generating portfolio, this episode is packed with actionable wisdom, real numbers, and unfiltered lessons from a self-made investor on the rise. PODCAST HIGHLIGHTS:[03:32] Yoni shares his move from Chicago to Seattle-Tacoma. [04:13] Explains how real estate seemed only for the wealthy [04:36] Explains early condo hunt and why Seattle HOA rules killed cash flow. [08:01] Realtor pivots him toward Pierce County and Tacoma multi-family options. [08:46] Finds $623,000 triplex; inherited 2-bed unit renting for $2,291 monthly. [09:45] Discovers “studio” was a converted beauty salon with permit issues. [11:06] First lender blocks the deal— bans ADUs on multi-family. [11:04] Yoni calls 300 lenders and finds one that keeps the 6.88% rate intact. [12:55] Closes with 5% down, 3% credits, and minimal points at signing. [15:45] Rents two bedrooms at $925 each via Facebook Marketplace fast. [22:20] Camper strategy: buys $4,900 unit, lives there to free up studio. [22:36] Property grosses $6,300/month on $4,450 PITIMI—positive cash flow achieved. [28:58] Second deal: $656,500 four-bed, four-bath with ADU near first house. [32:37] PIT around $5,300; fully rented gross target near $8,000 per month. [36:45] Uses 0% AmEx for renovation materials—pays it down through rent flow. [38:50] Shares contractor lessons: feed crews, keep scope clear, avoid rework. [46:19] Final advice: stay scrappy, act fast, and systemize what works.  HOST Craig Curelop    

The real estate market is constantly changing—and top investors are adapting fast. In this episode, Kathy Fettke talks with leading experts including J Scott, Thach Nguyen, Bronson Hill, Craig Curelop, and Ashley Wilson about how they've shifted their investment strategies over the past six months. You'll hear how these seasoned investors are finding new opportunities in today's environment—whether it's developing affordable housing, funding new projects, or shifting asset classes. 

What if your “safe” job was the very thing keeping you from true financial independence? In this episode of Invest2FI, Craig Curelop interviews Dustin Heiner, founder of Master Passive Income and REWBCON. Dustin shares how he left his county IT job in California in 2006 and built a real estate portfolio in Phoenix, Arizona, that generated enough cash flow to retire by 37. This conversation covers the mindset shifts that led him to challenge the traditional “work until 65” narrative, the exact strategies he used to buy single-family rentals with less than $20,000 saved, and the freedom number that set him free.  You'll hear how Dustin built scalable systems, overcame costly mistakes, and now teaches thousands how to create generational wealth. If you're ready to break out of the J-O-B cycle and start investing with purpose, this episode is your blueprint. PODCAST HIGHLIGHTS:[03:17] Dustin opens by sharing how traditional career paths often trap workers. [06:09] He recalls the moment his job felt like “led bricks.” [08:41] Dustin explains being laid off despite having a good boss. [11:32] He notes there weren't great YouTube videos to learn investing. [13:59] Dustin describes deciding to approach real estate differently from others. [16:49] He compares earning 25 cents profit on every rental deal. [19:38] Dustin recalls people doubting his ability to build passive income. [22:02] He details branching out from California to Texas and Arizona. [24:36] Dustin explains why families became his best long-term tenants. [27:07] He emphasizes the importance of scaling a rental portfolio. [29:41] Dustin shares building systems that made $300–$500 each month.. [31:58] He stresses helping people while becoming financially independent. [34:18] Dustin advises cutting expenses to accelerate financial freedom. [37:37] He reflects on challenges faced with early property acquisitions. [40:41] Dustin reveals buying into a $35 million apartment complex. [44:06] He responds passionately about lessons learned along the journey. [47:22] Dustin shares attending conferences to network with real estate investors. [50:46] He warns that tough times will strengthen investors over time. [53:41] Dustin offers his best single piece of real estate advice. [56:53] He closes with a lighthearted reference to a favorite movie. HOST Craig Curelop    

What if you could live rent-free and build over a million dollars in equity within just a few years? In this powerful solo episode of Invest2FI, Craig Curelop breaks down his real estate investing journey from his very first duplex in Denver in 2017 to building a portfolio of five house hacks that now generate over $10,000 per month in cash flow and nearly $1.2M in equity.  Craig shares raw details, including exact purchase prices, loan types, mortgage payments, and rental income. You'll hear how he navigated market fears, COVID uncertainty, and even a costly $150,000 structural repair. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer, an aspiring house hacker, or an investor scaling your portfolio, this episode is packed with proven strategies, real numbers, and inspiration to help you take action in 2025 and beyond. Highlights [03:03] Craig explains his very first duplex purchase in Denver 2017. [05:20] Shares FHA loan details and how he lived behind a curtain. [07:06] Reveals $800 monthly cash flow and $400K equity growth. [08:18] Talks about second house hack in Fortin Colorado in 2018. [09:57] Explains converting four-bedroom home into six-bedroom rental. [12:27] Discusses Airbnb strategy generating $2,000 monthly downstairs. [13:54] Breaks down Arvada property during COVID with studio unit. [15:19] Opens up about $150,000 structural issue and repair costs. [17:45] Describes Cherry Creek six-bed house hack bringing $4,700 rent. [19:45] Summarizes how five house hacks built $1M equity in 8 years. HOST Craig Curelop    

What happens when you start with a 10-year prison sentence—and end up managing over $50 million in real estate assets? In this powerful episode of the Invest2FI, Craig Curelop welcomes Alex Donnolo: a real estate expert, public speaker, and former inmate with a story that defies the odds. Alex Donnolo's life wasn't always destined for success. Learn how he went from wrongful conviction to creating a thriving business in mobile home park investing through seller financing and operational discipline.  You'll hear how he scaled from a lawn care hustle to an empire with 21 parks across 11 states and what it really takes to raise capital, build a hybrid investment model, and lead with resilience. Whether you're facing setbacks or looking for a strategic investing edge, this episode delivers inspiration and tactical wisdom in every minute. PODCAST HIGHLIGHTS:[02:35] - Growing up with family of business owners [03:02] Middle school hustling with t-shirts and skateboards [03:10] Ran small business screen printing with friends [03:49] Wrongfully convicted, sentenced to 10 years [06:50] Became national news, withdrew from high school [12:46] While incarcerated, Alex found spiritual guidance [26:45] Started seller-financed mobile home park investing [32:31] Alex manages 21 properties across 11 states, totaling $50 million [34:31] Blended interest rate strategy at 8% [35:59] Exit strategies and contingency planning [38:21] "Hybrid model" gives lenders partial equity [42:40] Doubled value of first MHP in 2 years [45:31] Rent increase strategy done with transparency [47:19] Solo growth after partnership split in 2020 [48:00] Why MHPs outperform storage and multifamily [49:02] Seller-financed deals are harder in storage asset class [51:01] Scaling challenges, building efficient team culture [52:55] Plans to focus more on writing and speaking [53:05] Upcoming book release in September [53:51] Best advice: “Resilience not perfection” by Jim Collins HOST Craig Curelop    

Are you wondering how real estate can fast-track your journey to financial freedom? In this episode of Invest2FI, host Craig Curelop sits down with Scott Trench, a real estate investor, author, and former CEO of BiggerPockets to talk about why he walked away after 7 years at the helm. Scott opens up about leadership, burnout, identity, and what's next in his journey through financial independence. This conversation digs deep into his personal philosophy on business, freedom, and the evolving meaning of success.  Whether you're building your first portfolio or scaling a team, this candid conversation offers actionable insight and hard-earned wisdom for entrepreneurs and investors alike. Plus, Scott drops golden nuggets on managing teams, family balance, and staying purpose-driven post-FI. Tune in to catch exclusive behind-the-scenes stories and strategic mindset shifts from one of the most influential voices in financial independence. PODCAST HIGHLIGHTS:[03:47] Scott's background as real estate investor and former CEO [06:23] Dealing with identity shifts after stepping down as CEO [08:47]Why few investors don't "sell it all" and how long-term ownership builds wealth [11:20] How financial independence changes your spending patterns and priorities [14:19] The mindset shift of owning vs. managing property [17:28] How Scott avoids buying at the market peak [20:54] Understanding value and not overpaying in competitive markets [24:03] Negotiating below market in today's real estate climate [27:29] The biggest mistakes people make on the path to FI [34:04] How population growth impacts real estate strategy [35:19] Limited supply = opportunity for smart real estate moves [38:56] Deciding between different property types and investment vehicles [42:41] Why Scott still values a bit of “earned income” [46:10] Finding joy in the process, not just the outcome [49:59] Scott's current focus: family, investing, and the BiggerPockets podcast HOST Craig Curelop    

What would you do if you had no money, no job, and no local connections—but wanted to build a real estate portfolio? In this episode of Invest2FI, Craig Curelop sits down with Fernando Corona, a real estate investor and private money expert who leveraged out-of-state co-living properties to build wealth from scratch.   Fernando reveals how he went from quitting his job with debt and no income to structuring creative deals, working with partners, and managing high-cash-flow PadSplit properties without ever visiting them in person.  You'll learn what mistakes to avoid, how to work with contractors remotely, raise capital, and scale with the right systems in place. Whether you're new or seasoned in house hacking, partnership investing, or PadSplit rentals, this episode is packed with real-world advice and actionable strategies to grow your portfolio today. PODCAST HIGHLIGHTS:[03:42] Quit job broke and in debt with no clear plan [06:45] Reduced mortgage by house hacking with roommates out of necessity [09:44] Started first PadSplit investment property remotely in Tennessee [12:44] Chose ideal markets after analyzing cash flow and demand [18:42] Built systems to manage contractors completely out-of-state [21:44] Overlooked renovation costs weren't included in contractor's original quote [24:46] Low purchase price markets improve rent-to-cost investment returns [27:47] Mobile homes provide affordable entry with potential cash flow [30:42] Creative financing gave investor-friendly benefits and cash flow [33:42] Evaluates if deal makes sense based on location returns [36:43] Tenant churn in co-living eats into profit margins [39:46] Rental income used to qualify for better financing terms [42:49] Compared co-living, Airbnb, and section eight investment strategies [45:46] Shared personal story and investing journey through recent years HOST Craig Curelop    

What do soccer and real estate investing have in common? Grit. In this episode of Invest2FI, Craig Curelop is with former professional soccer player turned house hacker, Eric Lafon. Eric shares his remarkable transition from a European soccer league to climbing the property ladder in Denver—while cash flowing $1,500/month in 2024's high-rate market.  This episode discusses co-living strategies, building resilience after layoffs, traveling frugally across 35+ countries, and how Eric turned a severance check into a financial pivot. Tune in to hear how he discovered BiggerPockets, mastered creative financing, and built a thriving real estate portfolio—starting with just one room. Whether you're a traveling minimalist, athlete, or nine-to-fiver dreaming of financial independence, Eric's story will show you what's possible with smart investing and community-minded real estate. Don't miss this high-value episode. PODCAST HIGHLIGHTS:[03:44] Transitioning from sports to a low-paying software job [04:05] Discovery of BiggerPockets during COVID lockdown [09:49] Told 15-year-old dreams don't pay bills and shifted goals [13:04] Took higher role realizing he needed purpose beyond career [16:53] How frugality and long-term travel built financial discipline [19:30] Moving to Denver without job and landing one Day One [21:15] Volunteering in co-living in Oaxaca sparks new vision [23:06] Using new W2 to get pre-approved and find right property [26:00] Why co-living offered better ROI than duplex strategy [28:50] Buying a 4-bed, 3,000 sq ft house optimized for co-living [37:07] Biggest mindset shifts since becoming a property owner [38:30] Dealing with property management and early co-living issues [42:00] Learning lease management and tenant communication skills[45:20] You don't need to hustle 24/7 if systems are working [48:33] FI isn't about retiring early but about intentional life design [51:47] Inspired to help others find clarity, confidence, financial peace  HOST Craig Curelop    

Craig Curelop shares how house hacking launched his path to freedom, building wealth and a purpose-driven life. Discover how intentional strategy, faith, and bold decisions built his thriving business and peaceful Idaho lifestyle.See full article: https://www.unitedstatesrealestateinvestor.com/house-hacking-grit-and-intentional-living-that-built-a-life-of-freedom-with-craig-curelop/(00:00) - Introduction to The REI Agent Podcast(00:06) - Meet Mattias and Erica: Hosts with a Holistic Real Estate Vision(00:24) - Erica's Absence and Health Update(01:05) - Murph Workout and CrossFit Recovery Progress(02:57) - Introducing Guest Craig Curelop and House Hacking Discussion(05:33) - Craig's Journey: From Corporate Job to Real Estate Passion(08:30) - The First House Hack: Airbnb While Living in the Living Room(10:29) - Equity Growth and Property Appreciation in Denver(11:42) - Scaling Up: From First to Second and Third House Hacks(14:51) - Accidentally Becoming a Real Estate Agent(18:34) - From BiggerPockets to Full-Time Agent Life(20:16) - Craig's Growing Team and COVID Market Opportunity(22:28) - Transitioning to Leadership and Scaling a Team(24:21) - Partnering with Place for Massive Team Growth(26:06) - Co-Living Management Model and Passive Investing Strategy(28:50) - National Expansion: Idaho, Arizona, and San Diego Teams(30:34) - Craig's Future: Co-Living Fund and Out-of-State Markets(32:10) - Cashflow vs. Appreciation Debate for New Investors(35:13) - Culture-Based Co-Living: A Mission-Driven Housing Strategy(36:54) - Still Selling in Colorado While Living in Idaho(37:55) - Idaho Life: Homesteading and the Pursuit of Peace(38:46) - Morning Routine, Mental Clarity, and Work-Life Balance(40:53) - Designing a Life Around Intentional Business Building(43:06) - Relationship Support, Traditional Family Goals, and Priorities(44:01) - Scaling Through Efficiency and Hiring the Right Help(45:13) - Golden Nugget: Get Uncomfortable Every Day to Grow(46:00) - Book Recommendations and Final Thoughts(47:22) - Where to Follow Craig and Buy the House Hacking Book(47:28) - Outro and Closing Remarks from Mattias and EricaContact Craig Curelophttps://www.thefiteam.com/https://www.instagram.com/thefiguyFor more great info on enhancing your holistic journey to true freedom, visit https://reiagent.com

In this episode of Invest2FI, Craig Curelop, shares his personal and professional journey in 2025. Reflecting on his goals for the year, Craig provides updates on his progress in key areas such as health, spirituality, personal growth, and real estate investing.  From intentional health choices and improving posture to deepening his faith and planning new business ventures, Craig opens up about the successes and challenges of staying aligned with his aspirations. Listen as he talks about the challenges of balancing relationships, fitness, and financial independence, while facing the ever-changing demands of life. PODCAST HIGHLIGHTS:[00:20] Introduction to the mid-year reflection on personal and professional goals. [02:40] Discussing health and fitness goals and tracking progress. [03:59] Reflecting on spiritual growth and memorizing Bible verses. [05:10] Shifting focus on lifestyle and less travel, prioritizing home and community. [07:43] Personal growth through books, podcasts, and mentorship. [09:39] Relationship with family, improving communication, and staying connected. [13:04] Real estate goals, challenges, and a surprise property sale for cash flow. [14:40] Plans for expanding co-living properties with investors. [16:00] Closing thoughts on balancing personal life and work, staying focused on the big picture.  HOST Craig Curelop    

In this episode, we sit down with Craig Curelop, founder, investor, and co-living innovator, to unpack one of the most recession-proof rental strategies in real estate today. From his first house hack in 2018 to building a scalable, systemized co-living portfolio, Craig shares how he turned single-family homes into high-yield assets, earning $1,000 to $3,000 in monthly cash flow per property.We explore the myths around timing the market, why waiting often costs more than acting, and how Craig's unique approach is bringing affordability back to housing. He reveals what makes co-living work at scale, how his team built culture-first management systems, and why conflict resolution, not just ROI, is the secret to long-term tenant retention. We also dive into market selection, the realities of no-money-down deals, and why building trust and partnerships changed everything for Craig.Tune in if you want to invest smarter, learn a repeatable strategy that works in any cycle, and hear from someone who's quietly turning 10-bedroom houses into long-term wealth without flipping, rehabbing, or chasing shiny objects.Key Topics:-Why Craig believes now is the best time to buy real estate-How co-living creates $1K–$3K/month in real cash flow-Conflict resolution systems that keep 10-person households running smoothly-Building a culture-first property management company-Why "no money down" deals are often myths—and what really works===

What if financial independence was simpler than you think? In this powerful episode Craig Curelop reconnects with a prominent figure in the FIRE (Financial Independence, Retire Early) movement J.L Collins, whose best-selling book The Simple Path to Wealth has helped millions unlock freedom through frugality and investing in index funds.  This is not just a rehash—J.L. drops updates on Pathfinders, the upcoming Simple Path to Wealth 2.0, and how staying the course in a volatile market is still the winning strategy. You will walk away with timeless principles of wealth-building, practical investment tips (like using VTSAX), and motivation to pursue Financial Independence regardless of income level. Perfect for anyone in the FIRE movement, new investors, or anyone questioning the value of good debt, savings rates, and lifestyle inflation. PODCAST HIGHLIGHTS: [03:15] Book update and reflections on investing mindset [7:28] Avoiding lifestyle creep and how saving saved him [11:17] 4 percent rule and retirement income planning [16:12] How market volatility shapes disciplined investing long-term [25:27] Vanguard's VTSAX index fund remains JL's top investing pick [32:52] Staying the course when market drops test your resolve [38:03] Pushback on simplicity and myths about wealth accumulation [43:57] Financial independence is about freedom not early retirement age [47:27] Advice to young investors on maximizing savings from start [53:04] Stock market cycles and emotional control with investing [58:26] Meditation mindset helps maintain financial course in crashes  HOST Craig Curelop    

Are you ready to discover how short-term rentals and co-living properties can transform your real estate investment returns?  In this episode of Invest2FI, Craig Curelop is with Cliff Johnson, co-founder of Vakasa and current president of PadSplit, the leader in co-living rentals. Cliff shares his inspiring journey from attorney to real estate entrepreneur, how he built a vacation rental empire starting with a profitable oceanfront home in Oregon, and the strategic insights that helped him navigate complex markets and regulations.  Learn how Cliff leveraged data-driven approaches and innovative income guarantees to grow Vakasa and successfully transition into boutique hotels and co-living properties. Whether you're a beginner or seasoned investor, Cliff's story offers actionable lessons on identifying high-yield markets, adapting to evolving rental trends, and building wealth with multi-family and short-term rental investments. Don't miss this insider perspective from a key player in the co-living revolution. PODCAST HIGHLIGHTS:[04:36] Cliff shares how he transitioned from attorney to real estate entrepreneur [08:10] Explanation of Vakasa's income guarantee model to owners [15:25] Cliff's first purchase in Rockaway Beach Oregon was a home run [20:40] How data and market knowledge guided property selections and strategies [23:17] Discussion on managing short-term rentals with high monthly revenue [32:47] Transition from vacation rentals to boutique hotels explained [36 45] Insights on why co-living works better in cities than short-term rentals [39:50] How regulatory environments affect rental market opportunities [52:20] The future of co-living and PadSplit's role in affordable urban housing [57:10] Cliff's advice for investors entering short-term rental and co-living markets HOST Craig Curelop    

What does it take to go from buying a $43,000 condo to becoming the founder of a property management software used nationwide? In this episode of the Invest2FI, Craig Curelop sits down with Nathan Miller—longtime real estate investor and founder of Rentec Direct—to uncover his journey from humble beginnings to building a rental portfolio and a successful SaaS business. Nathan shares how house hacking before it was cool helped launch his real estate journey, how he scaled during the 2008 crash, and why he built Rentec Direct to solve his own landlord headaches. You'll gain actionable insights on long-term investing, spotting value in foreclosures, and building tech solutions from scratch. Whether you're a buy-and-hold landlord, tech-savvy investor, or someone curious about building wealth slowly but surely, this episode is packed with golden nuggets.  PODCAST HIGHLIGHTS: [03:50] Inspiration to start investing and first real estate deal  [06:59] House hacked before strategy became mainstream for investors  [09:50] Used condo equity to purchase better property and rent  [11:35] Bought during 2008 crash using smart financing strategy  [20:26] Foreclosure deal became long-term rental at massive appreciation  [21:50] Moved into duplexes after realizing scalability of multi-units  [24:06] Self-managing rentals led to building Rentec Direct platform  [28:34] Warns against assuming all markets behave the same  [31:45] Shares how Rentec's features save thousands of hours  [39:18] Funded deals using savings, no liquidity events needed  [44:50] Answers why he still won't accept venture capital  [46:29] Shares biggest lesson from hard-to-rent new builds  [48:00] Final Four segment: best advice was stop renting  [49:05] Created Rentec solely to save people time  [53:28] Advice for young investors to take action now  HOST  Craig Curelop   

Can a $10K summer Airbnb hustle turn into a $42 million real estate empire? In this episode of Invest2FI, Craig Curelop is with Clara Arroyave, a pioneer in co-living and founder of ColivingCashflow.com. Clara reveals how she scaled from renting out a living room to managing 160+ co-living rooms, then lost it all during COVID—and how she's now rebuilding with even greater momentum.  You'll hear her strategies on arbitrage, multi-family conversions, B2B tenant acquisition, and startup-style fundraising. This is a must-listen for real estate investors who want to grow fast, pivot through crisis, and make impact-driven housing decisions. If you're passionate about co-living, affordable rentals, or multifamily investing—Clara's resilience and insights will blow your mind. PODCAST HIGHLIGHTS:[04:29] Clara shares how she earned $10K from a living room Airbnb [07:35] First startup matched new residents with realtors open to no SSN [08:38] Built B2B network with HR and university housing contacts [10:37] Launched PlaceMe in 2016 to rent units as co-living spaces [16:01] Zero ad spend: How she filled units using B2B referrals [24:29] Raising money using SAFE agreements like a tech startup [30:29] Why Clara believes co-living can't be replaced by AI [32:34] COVID dropped occupancy from 95% to 40% in weeks [33:49] Clara negotiates lease terminations to avoid full collapse [34:15] Clara explains 30–36% rent boost from bedroom density in Boston [35:18] Joined investment bank to learn high-level capital raising [40:28] Discusses triple-decker conversions for scalable cash flow [48:35] Boston's housing shortage and her plan to add 50K units [49:51] Why Clara is always near a Metallica concert [50:50] Final advice: Stay authentic, focus on strengths, solve real problems [51:50] Invitation to co-living conference and personal investor network HOST Craig Curelop    

How can you double your rental cash flow while creating a meaningful community? In this episode of Invest2FI, Craig Curelop welcomes back co-living expert and long-time community builder Grant Shipman. With over two decades of co-living experience—both as a resident and investor—Grant breaks down why co-living is not just a trend, but a sustainable housing model that's here to stay. From his accidental beginnings in intentional shared living to managing profitable co-living spaces, Grant explains how healthy household dynamics, conflict resolution systems, and good design make co-living a win for both tenants and landlords. They also unpack the rise and fall of VC-backed co-living startups like Common and Ollie, why smaller operators are thriving, and how platforms like PadSplit are reshaping the landscape. If you're looking for a strategy with massive upside—financially and socially—this episode is packed with investor insights, operational tips, and future predictions. You'll also hear about the first-ever Co-Living Conference happening June 6–7, 2025, in Denver—a must-attend event for real estate innovators. PODCAST HIGHLIGHTS:[04:49] How co-living started accidentally for grant in 2000 [07:24]21 years of co-living and why he stayed committed [09:20] How community naturally forms in shared spaces [10:51] Resolving conflict in co-living strengthens relationships [11:55] Grant's first conflict story in a seven-person house [17:41] Double rental income and higher cash flow with co-living [19:14] Shift from transitional housing to mainstream shared living [22:35] Why most VC-backed co-living startups failed post-COVID [24:05] Padsplit's survival and the role of software in success [26:58] How saturation won't stop good co-living operators [33:39] Grant's average cash flow in cash flow markets [36:15] The key question where does co-living work well [38:49] Details of the first U.S. co-living conference [42:19] Final pitch for co-living event and community  HOST Craig Curelop   

Could a flexible rental model be the game-changer your property needs? In this episode of Invest2FI, host Craig Curelop sits down with Miller McSwain, a former nuclear rocket scientist turned full-time real estate investor and author of Co-Living Cash Flow by BiggerPockets. Starting with just two house hacks in Colorado Springs, Miller now oversees 6 co-living properties totaling over 50 rentable rooms, proving that strategic co-living can outpace traditional rental strategies — even in today's high-interest-rate environment. Learn how Miller scaled his portfolio, designed high-retention communities, boosted cash flow with simple renovation tweaks, and managed operations to maximize tenant satisfaction. He also shares critical mistakes, like contractor red flags, that beginners can easily avoid. PODCAST HIGHLIGHTS:[03:44] Miller discusses how games ignited his interest in exponential growth. [06:05] His first investment in mutual funds, influenced by Dave Ramsey. [08:55] Shares decision-making behind studying nuclear engineering in Tennessee. [11:01] Describes first exposure to real estate via his parents' duplex idea. [15:25] Road trip story finding the right Colorado city for house hacking. [17:02] Breaks down numbers on first Colorado Springs co-living house hack. [20:05] Lessons from managing tenants, hiring cleaners, and improving systems. [25:50] Miller's second house hack: buying under market and adding bedrooms. [31:00] How to build strong community culture inside a co-living house. [33:30] Systems for leases, group chats, pizza nights, and boosting retention. [37:39] His experience financing co-living houses with conventional and DSCR loans. [39:00] Miller shares his plans for expanding his co-living portfolio. [44:15] Learn more about Miller's book, Co-Living Cash Flow, and the co-living strategy. HOST Craig Curelop   

What if you could turn $40,000 into a multi-million-dollar real estate empire? In this episode of Invest2FI, Craig Curelop is with Ted Kaasch, an Omaha-based investor and leader of one of the fastest-growing REIAs in the U.S. Ted shares how he transitioned from foundation sales to real estate, using the BRRRR (Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, Repeat) method to flip condemned properties into high-performing assets. He reveals how strategic networking, wholesaler connections, and REIA groups fueled his success—including turning an $11,000 condemned house into a cash-flowing short-term rental. Ted also discusses the future of real estate investing, his shift to self-storage, and the rising regulations affecting rental investors. Packed with actionable strategies, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to start, scale, or adapt in real estate. PODCAST HIGHLIGHTS:[03:13] How Ted transitioned from foundation sales to real estate investing. [07:04 ] The impact of learning construction on real estate deals. [12:22] How networking and wholesaling helped Ted grow his business. [18:43] Turning a $40K seed fund into a multi-million dollar portfolio. [24:30]  Breaking down Ted's perfect BRRRR deal on a condemned house. [31:16] Challenges of securing permits during the 2020 pandemic. [38:00] How Omaha's market growth is attracting outside investors. [41:56] Why Ted is selling off rentals and shifting to self-storage investing. [45:20] The impact of rental regulations on landlords in Omaha. [50:42] How Ted built one of the fastest-growing REIA groups in the U.S. [54:36] Final thoughts on building a strong real estate network. HOST Craig Curelop   

Are you facing the complexities of the 2025 real estate market? Join host Craig Curelop as he interviews Dave Meyer, BiggerPockets' data expert to uncover actionable insights for investors. As the Vice President of Data and Analytics at BiggerPockets, Dave is the go-to resource for market insights and strategic advice, helping real estate investors make informed decisions. Dave shares predictions for housing prices, mortgage rates, and rent growth while diving into strategies like house hacking, value-add investing, and creative financing.  Known for his engaging personality, he is a sought-after speaker and mentor in the real estate community, offering a unique blend of expertise, humor, and approachability.  Perfect for beginners and seasoned investors alike, this episode equips you to leverage transitional markets and long-term trends. Learn how job growth, supply constraints, and smart tools can set you up for success. Stay till the end for an in-depth comparison of real estate, stocks, and crypto investments. PODCAST HIGHLIGHTS:[2:19] Dave Meyer on transitioning back to the US and housing [5:07] Why 2025 is a challenging year for real estate predictions [8:40] Inventory trends and why the market may hit bottom soon [14:32] Resetting expectations: Real estate after 2013–2022 anomalies [19:22] Creative financing tools: Subject-to deals and other strategies [22:03] How to identify high-growth out-of-state real estate markets [33:40] Balancing cash flow vs. appreciation for long-term investors [41:20] Rent growth projections and multifamily supply constraints [44:15] Will housing affordability ever improve in the US? [48:00] Why population growth and immigration are critical for housing HOST Craig Curelop    

One of the best ways to “live for free” is a strategy almost every successful real estate investor uses at some point in their journey: house hacking. You've probably heard of it before—house hacking allows you to significantly reduce (or eliminate) your mortgage/rent payment, so your housing cost hits rock bottom or even zero. This helps you save more money every month, invest faster, and reach financial freedom after a short (but worthwhile) period of sacrifice.  Which US markets are best for house hacking, getting a great job, and paying next to nothing for housing? We're presenting four of the best house hacking markets in the country, some of which you'll probably be tempted to move to. These markets all have lower home prices but respectable wages, things to do, and great rents for you to collect.  Who better to judge these markets than the man who wrote The House Hacking Strategy, Craig Curelop? Data scientist Austin Wolff is pitching these four real estate markets to Craig and Dave as the house hacking duo votes on whether they'd move to that market to house hack or stay put where they are.  In This Episode We Cover: How to reduce (or eliminate) your monthly mortgage/rent payment with house hacking The different levels of house hacking (comfort vs. profitability)  What makes a market worthwhile to house hack in (it ISN'T just about the money) A mountain biking capital with booming job growth and low home prices  A “smart-grid” affordable city close to two major markets  Great jobs, an excellent airport, solid schools, and strong growth from this underrated southern market  Buying a house for under $300K in this city with a sports atmosphere  And So Much More! Links from the Show Join BiggerPockets for FREE Let Us Know What You Thought of the Show! Ask Your Question on the BiggerPockets Forums BiggerPockets YouTube Join the Future of Real Estate Investing with Fundrise Grab Craig's Book “The House Hacking Strategy” Find an Investor-Friendly Agent in Your Area The 10 Best Markets for Your First House Hack Connect with Austin Connect with Craig Connect with Dave (00:00) Intro (01:57) What is House Hacking? (05:11) Should You Move to House Hack? (07:51) 1. Fayetteville, Arkansas (11:59) 2. Chattanooga, Tennessee (15:39) 3. Charlotte, North Carolina (20:08) 4. Indianapolis, Indiana (24:56) How to Start House Hacking Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/real-estate-1077 Interested in learning more about today's sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, I'm joined by Craig Curelop, better known as "The FI Guy," as we dive deep into the life-changing strategy of house hacking. Craig shares his incredible journey from a job he hated to becoming financially independent in just a few short years. Along the way, we discuss how a simple decision to invest in real estate with as little as 3% down can set you on a path to building lasting wealth. Whether you're just starting or looking to expand your portfolio, this episode is packed with actionable insights that will inspire you to rethink your approach to investing.Craig and I also explore the mindset shifts required to achieve financial independence and how his experiences shaped his mission to help others. You'll learn why house hacking is the best real estate investment strategy, how to avoid common pitfalls, and why it's never too early or late to start. Plus, Craig shares his inspiring journey of growing a portfolio through smart investments while balancing life's priorities. Connect with Craig:https://www.thefiteam.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/craig-curelop-a6457242/https://www.instagram.com/thefiguy/?hl=enConscious Investor Growth Summit details: https://www.consciousinvestorgrowthsummit.com/Schedule a 20-min get-to-know each other call:bit.ly/3OK31kISchedule a 30-min call to learn about investing with Three Keys Investments:bit.ly/3yteWhxVisit ThreeKeysInvestments.com to download a free e-book, “Why Invest in Apartments”.If you're looking for an affordable healthcare solution, check out Christian Healthcare Ministries.Each week I send out a newsletter that's designed to take thinking deeper. Join the thousands of other newsletter subscribers here: https://link.iamaconsciousinvestor.com/widget/form/DPbUpgmqXlu3jrMUELN9

Are you dreaming of a life where your investments work for you? Meet Audrey Easton. She is a film production assistant turned real estate entrepreneur who turned her first $40,000 savings into a thriving $10K monthly income with just five properties. On this episode, host Craig Curelop uncovers Audrey's incredible journey from movie production to mastering short-term rentals, house hacking, and rental arbitrage. Discover how Audrey leveraged her creative problem-solving skills, partnerships, and a sharp eye for opportunity to build a profitable portfolio. From transforming a 1950s fixer-upper into a house-hacking success to managing 14 Airbnb rooms as a superhost, Audrey shares the real strategies and lessons that helped her grow quickly. She's proof that you don't need a large number of properties—just the right systems and determination to make it work. Audrey's story proves that you don't need a massive portfolio to hit your income goals. Tune in to discover how small, strategic moves can add up to big financial wins. PODCAST HIGHLIGHTS:[02:00] Audrey's start in real estate during the pandemic and her pivot from bartending. [06:30] How reading Rich Dad Poor Dad changed Audrey's mindset. [10:40] Challenges of buying her first property as a non-traditional borrower. [15:20]  How her mom became an essential part of her real estate journey. [20:30] House hacking: Living and Airbnb-ing by the room in her 1950s ranch home. [27:45] Introduction to rental arbitrage and its benefits for landlords and tenants. [33:10] Managing 14 Airbnb rooms and achieving superhost status. [41:20]  Hospitality touches that keep her reviews glowing and business thriving. [47:00] Balancing film production with real estate and future plans. HOST Craig Curelop   

What does it take to be a successful woman in real estate? Join us as Craig Curelop, our host, talks with Amelia McGee, a self-taught real estate investor and co-founder of Women Invest in Real Estate (WIRE). Amelia describes growing up in a small Iowa town and establishing a 45-door portfolio. She has experience managing both short-term leases and long-term investments. Amelia discusses how she collaborated with her parents, expanded her portfolio, and overcame the obstacles of being a woman in a male-dominated field. Her practical advice on self-managing properties and forming partnerships will encourage both veteran investors and newbies. Amelia also offers advice for women wishing to get into real estate. Tune in to hear Amelia's journey and learn how she turned her passion into a successful business. Don't miss out—hit play and get inspired to take the next step in your investment journey! PODCAST HIGHLIGHTS: [02:20] Amelia shares her beginnings, growing up in a small Iowa town and starting her investment journey in 2019. [03:40] She talks about her first property, convincing her debt-averse parents to partner on a $30,000 home. [06:00] Amelia reflects on key lessons from her first flip, discussing what worked, what didn't, and why she shifted to rentals. [09:30] She explains her mindset shift from a 9-5 job to seeing real estate as a pathway to freedom. [12:00] Amelia talks about founding Women Invest in Real Estate (WIRE) and building a community for women in the industry. [15:20] She shares challenges women face in real estate and offers strategies for overcoming them. [20:00] Amelia discusses how she structured partnerships with her parents, using a $100k line of credit to scale. [24:00] She shares insights into managing 45 doors, including cash reserves, risk management, and self-management.[29:10] Amelia explains why quality trumps quantity in scaling her portfolio and her pivot to solo investing. [33:30] She talks about her evolving confidence, setting boundaries, working with contractors, and valuing herself. [36:00] Amelia offers advice for new women investors, encouraging them to surround themselves with like-minded people and take bold steps. [39:20] Lastly, she discusses her hobbies—pickleball, golf, and how she maintains a balanced, joyful life. HOST Craig Curelop   

                            Listen in as Erin and Craig discuss: How Craig used house hacking to eliminate his living expenses and build wealth Craig's journey to retiring from his W-2 job in just 2.5 years through real estate investing Closing 100 deals in a year to building a team with a mission to reduce the U.S. retirement age Overcoming limiting beliefs, raising your financial thermostat, and embracing growth Strategies for thriving in both competitive and buyer-friendly markets.  The systems and metrics Craig uses to drive success, including setting appointments and tracking contacts … and much more!                                       About Craig Curelop started out as a house hacker in Denver. After reaching financial independence in 2.5 years after three house hacks, he graduated from his W2 job at BiggerPockets to pursue being a full-time real estate agent inspiring others to do the same. In his first year of being a real estate agent he did over 100 deals. That's an exhausting year. He realized that if he was going to continue onward, he'd have to create a team; hence The FI Team. In just three years, Craig has grown a team of over 20 agents that do $100M+ per year in volume. In addition to The FI Team, Craig has a rental portfolio of 24 units along with being invested in multiple syndications, and coaches agents to grow their investor-friendly real estate agent teams! How to Connect With Craig Website: thefiteam.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMJ0qEaSojNm8TCwVbLrK2g Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thefiteam Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefiguy/

What if that first house hack could lead to a 70-unit real estate empire? In this episode, our host Craig Curelop interviews Cory Jacobson from The Wealth Juice Podcast. He started with a simple house hack and built this real estate portfolio that has short-term rentals, multifamily properties, and so much more. A real estate investor and mentor helping others get started and grow in real estate, Cory is passionate about teaching first-time investors how to make their first deal and how to help others reach financial freedom. His story has been full of lessons of overcoming setbacks and building the right partnerships that make the big deals happen. This episode is for those who want authentic stories and practical advice. Whether you are just starting out on your journey or want to grow your portfolio, you will leave with innovative ideas and practical recommendations. Press play to hear actionable advice, personal stories, and insights that will inspire and empower your real estate ventures. Podcast Highlights: [04:10] Cory explains how he turned a house hack into 70 rental units. [04:00] Cory talks about buying his first property in 2018 and breaking even with house hacking. [06:20] Managing unexpected issues like water damage early in his investing journey. [08:40] How his first house hack set the foundation for saving and scaling his portfolio. [11:15] Cory shares insights on his second property, inherited tenants, and challenges with repairs. [14:50] Transitioning to short-term rentals and entering the Tampa market for higher cash flow. [19:30] The mindset of delayed gratification and how it shaped Cory's financial habits. [23:10] Starting The Wealth Juice Podcast and how it opened doors for partnerships. [26:50] Scaling through partnerships on multifamily deals, including 18 and 43-unit properties. [32:15] How mentorship and collaboration helped Cory avoid mistakes and grow faster. [37:30] Cory's coaching program and its focus on helping first-time investors succeed. [41:10] Handling challenges like hurricanes and managing properties in multiple markets. [45:30] Cory's advice for building trust and strong relationships in real estate partnerships. [48:15] Final thoughts on confidence, keeping promises to yourself, and staying consistent. HOST Craig Curelop    

In Episode 160 of REIA Radio, we're joined by Craig Curelop, a real estate investor who has mastered the art of house hacking and single-family home investments in the Denver market. Craig shares his journey from beginner to expert, revealing lessons learned, strategies for success, and how he turned challenges into opportunities.Discover the power of house hacking, tips for building a profitable real estate portfolio, and how to leverage market knowledge to maximize returns. Plus, don't miss Craig's own podcast, INVEST2FI, where he dives even deeper into real estate investing strategies and interviews with industry leaders.This episode is packed with actionable insights for investors of all levels—don't miss it! If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, share it with your network, and leave us a 5-star review on your favorite platform!You can Join the Omaha REIA - https://omahareia.com/join-today Omaha REIA on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/OmahaREIA Check out the National REIA - https://nationalreia.org/ Find Ted Kaasch at www.tedkaasch.com Owen Dashner on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/owen.dashner Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/odawg2424/ Red Ladder Property Solutions - www.sellmyhouseinomahafast.com Liquid Lending Solutions - www.liquidlendingsolutions.com Owen's Blogs - www.otowninvestor.com www.reiquicktips.com Propstream - https://trial.propstreampro.com/reianebraska/RESimpli - https:...

What does it take to establish a multimillion-dollar real estate portfolio while remaining faithful to life's most important values? In this episode of Invest2FI, Craig Curelop speaks with Rich and Kathy Fettke, the power couple behind Real Wealth Network, one of the most respected real estate investing teams. Rich, a former extreme sports athlete and author, brings endurance and mindset training to their investing journey, while Kathy, an accomplished real estate expert and podcast host, contributes financial insights and a people-first approach.  They've helped numerous investors build money with sensible, sustainable real estate methods. Their story, from experiencing life-changing hardships to achieving financial freedom, is packed with concrete ideas for investors at all stages. Tune in to discover their finest tips on choosing markets, automating processes, and making real estate investing work for your lifestyle. PODCAST HIGHLIGHT: [0:04] Rich and Kathy Fettke share their backgrounds and how they ventured into real estate investing [1:10] Rich opens up about his battle with melanoma and how it shifted his focus to passive income [04:50] Kathy discusses her game-changing interview with Robert Kiyosaki and how it shaped their strategy [09:20] The couple reflects on their early real estate days and their first investment in Texas [15:45] How a strong mindset supported their transition from active to passive income [18:30] Insights into selecting the right markets, including population growth and affordability factors [25:12] Building a global real estate community of 77,000 members, from teleseminars to podcasts [29:45] Scaling their business by automating real estate operations to achieve freedom and growth [34:22] Adopting the "small and mighty investor" mentality with a focus on quality investments [40:15] Real-life success stories from the Fettkes' network of investors [48:20] Aligning investment strategies with personal goals for sustainable growth [51:30] The role of coaches and mentors in expanding their real estate ventures HostCraig Curelop   

Can your mistakes make you a millionaire? If you're like Craig Curelop and learn from what went wrong, then yes! Craig is now financially free, with millions of dollars in equity, thousands in monthly cash flow, and a thriving business. But, back when he was starting, he made a few mistakes that cost him a sizable amount of money, took years of time away, and put serious stress on his shoulders while trying to grow his real estate portfolio. Thankfully, you can take his lessons to heart, so YOU don't have to make them yourself. Today, we're talking about one of Craig's real estate deals that went wrong. What was supposed to be a profitable out-of-state BRRRR (buy rehab rent refinance repeat) investment quickly turned into contractor scams, danger, theft, and even…love. Yes, love is part of it, too. Craig lost a significant sum on this deal, but if you follow his advice, you don't have to repeat the same mistakes. Even though this was a property from hell, Craig still kept investing, eventually reaching financial freedom and living his dream life. Something WILL go wrong when you start investing in real estate—just make sure it wasn't what Craig went through. In This Episode We Cover: Real estate investing mistakes that lost Craig money on his first out-of-state investment  Interviewing agents and why it isn't enough to work with someone based on a good feeling The easy way to avoid a contractor taking your money WITHOUT doing work Why a cheap deal doesn't mean it's a good deal (be really careful) Cutting your losses early and when you should give up on a project that's going south Why you MUST check references on everyone you work with on a real estate deal And So Much More! Links from the Show Join BiggerPockets for FREE Let Us Know What You Thought of the Show! Grab Craig's Book, “The House Hacking Strategy” Find an Investor-Friendly Agent in Your Area See Dave at BPCON2024 in Cancun!  Contractor Nightmares: 5 Red Flags to Watch For and How to Escape a Bad Hire Connect with Craig Connect with Dave (00:00) Intro (02:04) House Hacking 8 Times! (05:28) One Really Bad BRRRR (14:41) Worst Contractor Ever? (25:59) Finally Selling It (27:54) The Good Ending (30:10) Failing Fast (34:45) Should I Fire My Property Manager? Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/real-estate-1019 Interested in learning more about today's sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The NAR lawsuit changed the real estate industry overnight. Just like that, buyer's agents were no longer getting their standard three percent commission, and many investors began imagining what buying and selling homes would be like without realtors. But is this massive NAR settlement as dramatic as the headlines are making it out to be? Is there really an agent exodus on the horizon, or is this just a way for the bad agents to exit the industry quickly? We brought on a panel of top investor-friendly agents to find out.  Joining us are four agents from across the nation: Avery Carl, Craig Curelop, Juliet Lalouel, and Mike Savegnago. All of these agents are affected by the recent NAR lawsuit settlement, but they don't seem so shaken up. For many of these agents, this lawsuit simply thinned the competition, putting the expert agents back on top while showing the less-than agents the door. Plus, after the recent deals they've done, they're not too concerned about a lack of buyer's agent fees. Today, we're asking each of them their thoughts on the changes to the NAR's rules, how this will affect buying and selling homes, what this means for real estate agent commissions, and what agents should do NOW to get ahead of the game. Plus, since our agent panel is all investors as well, they give some crucial advice on finding an agent in your area that will help you build your real estate portfolio even bigger. In This Episode We Cover The NAR lawsuit explained and what it means for real estate agent commissions  A “huge exit of agents” and how this could change the real estate industry forever  What to do when a seller offers you or your buyer's agent a zero-percent commission What real estate agents need to start doing NOW to ensure they still get paid  The key signs of an investor-friendly agent that any landlord should be looking for  Massive downsides of buying or selling without an agent (it will cost you…) And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/real-estate-930 Interested in learning more about today's sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices