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On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan Greene interviews James Faillettaz, founder and CEO of Verus Praedium Holding. James oversees multiple real estate businesses, including brokerage, property management, acquisitions, and leasing, and shares how building an interconnected platform has helped him grow his portfolio and create opportunities across different parts of the industry. Jonathan and James explore the operational realities of running several real estate businesses at once and why property management is often the most challenging part of the business. James explains how managing subsidized housing and diverse tenant situations requires empathy, adaptability, and strong systems. They also discuss how organizational structure and long-term planning help companies scale without constantly rebuilding their internal processes. The conversation also dives into the culture of multifamily properties and how small operational issues can quickly compound if they are not addressed. James shares how the "broken window theory" applies to property management and why maintaining standards across buildings is essential as a portfolio grows. The discussion highlights how leadership, consistency, and attention to detail can dramatically change the environment and performance of a property. In this episode, you will hear: Why property management is often the hardest part of running a real estate business How owning multiple real estate businesses can create operational advantages The importance of planning a company structure with long-term growth in mind How building culture can improve the performance of multifamily properties Lessons from scaling a portfolio while maintaining operational standards Why small operational problems can compound if they are ignored Follow and Review If you enjoy the show, please follow Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing on Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review. It helps other listeners discover these conversations and supports the show's growth. Supporting Resources Connect with James Website: https://revolutionrealtymn.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Revolution-Realty-Group-61574230950443/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/revolutionrealtygroupmn/ Connect with Jonathan: Website: www.streamlined.properties Website: https://www.trustgreene.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/jonathangreenere Instagram: www.instagram.com/trustgreene Instagram: www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties Zillow: www.zillow.com/profile/streamlinenj Bigger Pockets: www.biggerpockets.com/users/jonathangreene Facebook: www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties Email: info@streamlined.properties This episode was produced by Outlier Audio.
On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan Greene interviews Michael Cohen, founder and managing partner of Brighton Capital Advisors. With more than 25 years of experience in commercial real estate lending, debt sourcing, restructuring, and advisory work, Michael shares what he is seeing from the front lines of the current commercial real estate cycle. Jonathan and Michael discuss the shift from the value-correction phase to what Michael calls the "asset transfer phase," in which lenders are increasingly moving toward foreclosures, note sales, and restructurings as distressed loans work their way through the system. Michael explains why lenders were slower to act in prior years, how rising interest rates and operating costs have created pressure on multifamily and other assets, and why many borrowers are now facing critical decisions about whether to reinvest capital or exit their properties. The conversation also dives into the complexity of CMBS and CLO loan structures and why borrowers often underestimate lenders' leverage once loans are securitized. Michael shares how proactive communication, strong advisory teams, and a realistic understanding of loan documents can dramatically improve outcomes when navigating distressed situations. For investors, this episode highlights the importance of understanding leverage, capital reserves, and sponsor strength when evaluating real estate deals. Market cycles are inevitable, but preparation, knowledge, and disciplined decision-making can make the difference between surviving a downturn and losing an asset. In this episode, you will hear: Why commercial real estate is entering an asset transfer phase in the current cycle How rising rates and operating costs created pressure across multifamily assets Why lenders are becoming more aggressive with foreclosures and note sales The risks and complexities of CMBS and CLO loan structures Why capital reserves and sponsor strength matter during downturns How proactive communication can improve outcomes in distressed loan situations Follow and Review If you enjoy the show, please follow Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing on Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review. It helps other listeners discover these conversations and supports the show's growth. This episode was produced by Outlier Audio. Supporting Resources Connect with Michael: Website: https://brightoncapitaladvisors.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brightoncapitaladvisors LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/company/brightoncapitaladvisors/ Connect with Jonathan: Website - www.streamlined.properties YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/streamlinenj Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/jonathangreene Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties Email - info@streamlined.properties This episode was produced by Outlier Audio.
On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan Greene interviews Ladislas Maurice, international investor, consultant, and founder of The Wandering Investor. Ladislas has lived in more than a dozen countries and brings a global perspective to the conversation as he returns to the show to discuss how international investing and second citizenship strategies are evolving in a rapidly changing world. Jonathan and Ladislas explore the growing demand for Plan B strategies as investors and families look for residency, citizenship, or diversification outside their home countries. Ladislas explains the differences between residency and citizenship, how various immigration programs work, and why many investors are now thinking about global mobility not just for themselves but for future generations. The conversation also highlights emerging trends in international investing. Ladislas discusses countries currently attracting attention from global investors, including parts of Latin America and Africa, while explaining why some immigration programs become harder over time as demand increases. The episode offers listeners a framework for evaluating where they might want to live, invest, or create optionality in the future. For investors thinking long term, this episode reinforces the importance of understanding global opportunities and risks. Whether it is residency, citizenship, or international real estate investing, thoughtful planning can expand the number of choices available for you and your family in an uncertain world. In this episode, you will hear: Why more investors are pursuing a Plan B through residency or second citizenship The difference between residency, citizenship, and holding a second passport How global political and economic shifts are influencing international real estate investing Countries currently attracting attention for residency and investment opportunities Why immigration programs tend to become more restrictive over time How international diversification can create long-term options for future generations Follow and Review If you enjoy the show, please follow Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing on Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review. It helps other listeners discover these conversations and supports the show's growth. This episode was produced by Outlier Audio. Supporting Resources Connect with Ladislas: Website: https://thewanderinginvestor.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1EOqi1UVw2Byy8jc-glFMQ/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/thewanderinginvestor Instagram: https://instagram.com/thewanderinginvestor LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-wandering-investor/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/wander_investor Telegram: https://t.me/thewanderinginvestor Connect with Jonathan: Website - www.streamlined.properties YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/streamlinenj Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/jonathangreene Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties Email - info@streamlined.properties This episode was produced by Outlier Audio.
On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan Greene interviews Dan Rivers, co-founder of SynergyStays and founder of Rivers Capital Group. Dan shares how he built a diverse real estate background spanning property management, sales, flipping, private lending, and short-term rentals before narrowing his focus to revenue management for STR operators. He explains why trying to do everything at once held him back and how focusing on his strengths allowed him to grow more intentionally. Dan discusses the evolution of the short-term rental market, from the post-pandemic gold rush to today's more competitive, professionalized environment. He breaks down why many operators struggle when they treat STRs passively, and why success now requires attention to revenue management, guest experience, and consistent optimization. The conversation also explores house hacking, mindset shifts, and the power of showing up consistently in investor meetups to accelerate growth. If you're feeling scattered in your investing journey or unsure where to start, this episode offers clarity: focus on your superpower, surround yourself with the right people, and treat real estate like the business it is. In this episode, you will hear: Why focusing on one strength can unlock faster growth How the short-term rental landscape has shifted since 2020 The importance of revenue management in maximizing STR performance Why guest experience and reviews directly impact profitability How house hacking can accelerate wealth building The power of consistent networking and investor meetups Follow and Review "If you enjoy the show, please follow Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing on Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review. It helps other listeners discover these conversations and supports the show's growth." Supporting Resources Connect with Dan: Website: http://www.synergystayslocal.com/ Youtube: SynergyStays Facebook: Dan Rivers Instagram: @danrivers_RCG Special Link for Zen guests: https://bit.ly/synergyzen Connect with Jonathan: Website - www.streamlined.properties YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/streamlinenj Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/jonathangreene Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties Email - info@streamlined.properties This episode was produced by Outlier Audio.
On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan Greene interviews Oliver Lerner, president and co-founder of Shuk Rentals, a property management software platform built specifically for mom-and-pop landlords. Oliver shares how he bought his first rental property while still in college by house hacking a five-bedroom home with friends, and how that early experience shaped the way he approaches both landlording and business today. Oliver walks through the steep learning curve of managing properties on your own. From plumbing mistakes to expensive HVAC lessons, he explains how those early challenges helped him develop confidence and practical skills. He talks about the importance of buying right, understanding your numbers, and being willing to walk away from deals when they do not make sense. The conversation also explores the realities of being a small landlord in today's environment. Oliver discusses local regulations, rising fees, and the responsibility that comes with providing housing. He explains why he created Shuk Rentals to bring more transparency and accountability into the rental process, while giving independent landlords better tools to manage leases, communication, and retention. At its core, this episode is about building experience through action and creating systems that support long-term ownership. In this episode, you will hear: • How Oliver house hacked his first rental property in college • Why seeing dozens of homes before buying builds confidence and discipline • The importance of buying right to protect yourself from costly mistakes • Lessons learned from self-managing rentals and solving problems firsthand • Why mom-and-pop landlords play a vital role in the housing market • How better systems and transparency can improve tenant retention Follow and Review If you enjoy the show, please follow Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing on Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review. It helps other listeners discover these conversations and supports the show's growth. This episode was produced by Outlier Audio. Supporting Resources Connect with Oliver Website: http://www.shukrentals.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shukrentals Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shukrentals LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/oliverlerner/ Twitter: https://x.com/ShukRentals Connect with Jonathan: Website - www.streamlined.properties YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/streamlinenj Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/jonathangreene Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties Email - info@streamlined.properties This episode was produced by Outlier Audio.
On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan Greene interviews Jay Patel, fund manager at Proptex and a real estate entrepreneur with more than 25 years of experience across residential rehabs, foreclosures, commercial properties, assisted living facilities, and more. Jay shares how a major loss in the stock market after 9/11 shifted his focus permanently toward real estate, where tangible assets, predictable comps, and strategic leverage offered more control and long-term stability. Jay explains why buying right is everything in real estate, how disciplined underwriting separates professionals from hobby investors, and why leverage—when used properly—can dramatically amplify returns. He also discusses the dangers of overexposure to a single asset type, the importance of diversification even within real estate, and how tax strategy and depreciation play a crucial role in compounding wealth. The conversation also dives into retirement strategy, the power of consistent double-digit returns, and why preservation of capital becomes more important than chasing "sexy" returns over time. Jay outlines how structured funds can offer diversification, liquidity, and steady income while eliminating the day-to-day burden of property management. In this episode, you will hear: How Jay transitioned from stock trading to full-time real estate after 9/11 Why foreclosures can be powerful—but only with proper due diligence The difference between amateur and professional real estate investing How leverage can turn modest appreciation into significant equity growth Why diversification within real estate matters just as much as diversification across asset classes The role of depreciation and tax strategy in long-term wealth building How consistent 10–11% returns can outperform higher-risk strategies over time Follow and Review If you enjoy the show, please follow Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing on Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review. It helps other listeners discover these conversations and supports the show's growth. Supporting Resources Connect with Jay: Website: https://proptex.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@jaypatelproptex Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/proptexfunds/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaypatel-mls/ Connect with Jonathan: Website - www.streamlined.properties YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/streamlinenj Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/jonathangreene Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties Email - info@streamlined.properties This episode was produced by Outlier Audio.
On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan Greene interviews Lauren Rogers, investor relations and acquisitions lead at Veritas Equity Partners. Lauren shares how she transitioned from a high-level career in global tech to multifamily real estate and why she chose to partner with an experienced operator instead of starting with small, hands-on deals. Drawing from Veritas' focused strategy in Washington State, she explains how their tight buy box, workforce housing thesis, and in-house property management approach create consistent, risk-adjusted returns. Lauren and Jonathan explore the realities of value-add investing in Snohomish County, why geographic discipline matters more than chasing hot markets, and how exterior improvements, operational efficiencies, and local relationships can meaningfully impact NOI. They also discuss the mindset shift required to move from active DIY investing to passive syndication, especially for high-income professionals seeking long-term wealth and cash flow. Listeners will gain insight into how syndications actually work behind the scenes—from underwriting and leverage to investor communication and trust—and why forced holding periods and conservative debt structures can protect capital over time. In this episode, you will hear: Why Lauren left global tech to build a career in multifamily real estate How Veritas defines its 20–60 unit workforce housing buy box The importance of focusing hyper-locally within Snohomish County How in-house property management can improve NOI and operational control The difference between active ownership and truly passive syndication investing Common fears new investors have about multifamily syndications Follow and Review If you enjoy the show, please follow Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing on Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review. It helps other listeners discover these conversations and supports the show's growth. Supporting Resources Connect with Lauren: Website: https://veritasequitypartners.com/ Instagram: @lo.rogers17 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenrogersveritas/ Connect with Jonathan: Website - www.streamlined.properties YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/streamlinenj Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/jonathangreene Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties Email - info@streamlined.properties This episode was produced by Outlier Audio.
On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan Greene interviews Ashley Garner, founder of ABG & Associates and a multifamily investor with more than three decades of experience. Ashley shares how growing up renovating college rentals with his banker father shaped his long-term mindset and ultimately led him to scale from small single-family properties to hundreds of apartment units across North Carolina. Ashley reflects on the transition from hands-on landlord to operator and capital raiser, explaining why scaling required him to let go of control and trust professional property management. He discusses the importance of communication systems, standardized processes, and focusing geographically to build operational leverage. The conversation also explores syndication, raising capital through relationships, and how cost segregation and bonus depreciation can dramatically enhance investor returns. Throughout the episode, Jonathan and Ashley return to a central theme: real estate is a long game. Whether it's holding properties for decades to fund long-term care, prioritizing clean and safe housing for tenants, or building trust with investors, sustainable success comes from discipline, patience, and strong relationships. In this episode, you will hear: How Ashley's early exposure to college rentals shaped his investing philosophy Why scaling required letting go of hands-on management The importance of structured communication with property managers How focusing on one state can create operational and investor advantages The mindset shift from "asking for money" to offering opportunity through syndication How cost segregation and bonus depreciation can significantly boost investor returns Follow and Review If you enjoy the show, please follow Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing on Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review. It helps other listeners discover these conversations and supports the show's growth. Supporting Resources Connect with Ashley: Website: http://www.abgmultifamily.com/ Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/@abgmultifamily Facebook: http://facebook.com/ABGRealEstate Instagram: http://instagram.com/abgrealestate LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleybgarner/ X: http://twitter.com/ABGRealEstate Connect with Jonathan: Website - www.streamlined.properties YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/streamlinenj Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/jonathangreene Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties Email - info@streamlined.properties This episode was produced by Outlier Audio.
On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan Greene interviews Aubrey Linville, co-founder and partner of Linville Team Partners. With more than 20 years of experience across retail, office, industrial, and mixed-use properties, Aubrey shares how he evolved from flipping small residential foreclosures into building and scaling a diversified commercial real estate platform. Aubrey explains why retail remains his favorite asset class, especially multi-tenant strip centers that balance risk and opportunity. He discusses the advantages of working with mom-and-pop tenants, the importance of relationships in commercial real estate, and why being a problem solver often creates more value than chasing perfectly "clean" deals. The conversation also dives into syndications, fund structures, and how thoughtful operators can create alignment between general and limited partners. Jonathan and Aubrey explore the mindset shift from active landlord to passive investor, the power of walking away from a deal, and why trusting your gut is often just as important as underwriting spreadsheets. Aubrey also shares how his entrepreneurial upbringing shaped his approach to real estate and why investing with people you trust is more important than chasing the highest projected IRR. In this episode, you will hear: Why multi-tenant retail can reduce risk compared to single-tenant assets The value of relationships with mom-and-pop tenants How to evaluate syndication opportunities as a limited partner Why walking away is sometimes the best negotiation strategy The role of gut instinct alongside financial underwriting How trust and communication build long-term investor relationships Follow and Review If you enjoy the show, please follow Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing on Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review. It helps other listeners discover these conversations and supports the show's growth. Supporting Resources Connect with Aubrey: Website: https://www.ltpcommercial.com/services/investment-services/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LTPcommercial/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/linvilleteam/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aubreylinville X: https://x.com/linvilleteam Connect with Jonathan: Website - www.streamlined.properties YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/streamlinenj Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/jonathangreene Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties Email - info@streamlined.properties This episode was produced by Outlier Audio.
On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan Greene sits down with Ryan Cadwell, partner at Resolute RDM, to unpack how "dumb money" and undisciplined underwriting have distorted real estate markets over the last cycle. Ryan shares how cheap capital, short-term thinking, and inexperienced investors created inflated valuations that are now forcing hard lessons as loans reset and assumptions break. The conversation dives deep into why advisory services matter more than ever, especially for out-of-state investors and newer buyers navigating markets they don't fully understand. Ryan explains why spreadsheets alone don't make good investments, how lenders' incentives can misalign with investors', and why slowing down often leads to better long-term outcomes. Jonathan and Ryan also explore the human side of real estate, from landlord-tenant dynamics to the emotional toll of DIY management. They discuss why many investors unknowingly trade time freedom for stress, how ego and vanity metrics like "door count" lead to poor decisions, and why knowing what you actually want from real estate is more important than chasing trends. In this episode, you will hear: Why "dumb money" helps on the sale but hurts on the next buy How cheap debt masked bad underwriting during the last cycle Why lenders are not always the safety net investors assume The difference between buying property and actually investing How property management fees often save money long-term Why asset management matters more than owning more doors Follow and Review If you enjoy the show, please follow Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing on Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review. It helps other listeners discover these conversations and supports the show's growth. Supporting Resources Connect with Ryan: Website: http://www.resoluterdm.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@resoluterdm Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ryancadwell Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/resoluterdm/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryancadwell/ Connect with Jonathan: Website - www.streamlined.properties YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/streamlinenj Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/jonathangreene Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties Email - info@streamlined.properties This episode was produced by Outlier Audio.
On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan Greene welcomes back Jose Berlanga, real estate developer, builder, and author, for a deep dive into land investing, development strategy, and the lessons learned from more than 30 years in the business. Returning to the show with his new book, Dirt Rich: Explore the World of Land Investing and Development, Jose shares how land deals played a critical role in capitalizing his construction company and shaping his long-term investment approach. The conversation explores the realities of land development, including zoning challenges, neighborhood resistance, entitlement risk, and why so many investors underestimate the complexity of building from the ground up. Jose explains the importance of repetition, local expertise, and understanding your niche, emphasizing that successful developers stick to what they know rather than constantly reinventing the wheel. Jonathan and Jose also discuss timing market cycles, the role of capital reserves during downturns, and why reputation, relationships, and integrity matter more than squeezing every dollar out of a single deal. The episode offers a grounded look at land as the foundation of all real estate value and why patience, vision, and long-term thinking are essential for lasting success. In this episode, you will hear: How land flipping helped fund and grow a construction business Why zoning, permitting, and community dynamics make land development complex The risks of jumping into development without experience or local knowledge Why repetition and staying in one niche lead to better outcomes How reputation and long-term relationships create deal flow over time Follow and Review If you enjoy the show, please follow Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing on Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review. It helps other listeners discover these conversations and supports the show's growth. Supporting Resources Connect with Jose: Jose's first appearance on the show: https://zenandtheartofrealestateinvesting.com/podcast/211/ Website: https://joseberlanga.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorjoseberlanga Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorjoseberlanga/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jose-berlanga-900a9518/ Jose's Books: https://joseberlanga.com/books/ Jose's New Book: https://www.amazon.com/Dirt-Rich-Jose-M-Berlanga-ebook/dp/B0FRNHY6PC Connect with Jonathan: Website - www.streamlined.properties YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/streamlinenj Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/jonathangreene Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties Email - info@streamlined.properties This episode was produced by Outlier Audio.
On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan Greene sits down with Jeff Hurst, CEO of Furnish Finder, to explore the fast-growing world of midterm rentals and why they're becoming an increasingly attractive option for both renters and real estate investors. Jeff explains how monthly furnished rentals serve professionals, relocating families, and healthcare workers—distinctly different from traditional short-term vacation rentals. The conversation breaks down why midterm rentals often deliver better cash flow than long-term rentals with far less operational intensity than short-term rentals. Jeff also shares insights from Furnish Finder's first-of-its-kind housing market report, created in partnership with AirDNA, revealing just how durable and widespread demand for monthly rentals has become across the U.S. Listeners will walk away with a clearer understanding of where midterm rentals fit between long-term and short-term housing, how investors are discovering this niche, and why this category may continue to grow as housing affordability, mobility, and lifestyle preferences evolve. In this episode, you will hear: Why midterm rentals serve a fundamentally different tenant base than short-term rentals How furnished monthly rentals can outperform long-term rentals with less management Key insights from the Furnish Finder and AirDNA housing market report Why hospitals, universities, and commuter corridors are strong midterm rental locations How investors can reduce risk by underwriting midterm rentals as long-term deals Follow and Review If you enjoy the show, please follow Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing on Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review. It helps other listeners discover these conversations and supports the show's growth. Supporting Resources Connect with Jeff: Website: http://www.furnishedfinder.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@FurnishedFinder Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FURNISHEDFINDER Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/furnishedfinder/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/furnished-finder/ The Report: https://www.furnishedfinder.com/resources/monthly-rental-market-trends-report Connect with Jonathan: Website - www.streamlined.properties YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/streamlinenj Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/jonathangreene Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties Email - info@streamlined.properties This episode was produced by Outlier Audio.
On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan Greene is joined by Jonathan Iger, CEO of Sage Realty Corporation, to explore how a 100-year-old, family-owned real estate company is redefining the modern office experience. Drawing on Sage's deep roots in New York City office development, Jonathan explains how brand, hospitality, and operational excellence can drive higher tenant retention and long-term value creation. The conversation dives into why office real estate was already changing before COVID, how renewal rates are often misunderstood, and why "experience" has become a core driver of NOI and asset performance. Jonathan also shares how Sage applies hospitality principles like consistency, service recovery, and "surprise and delight" to create differentiated office environments that tenants don't want to leave. Listeners will gain insight into where the office market is heading, how branded office platforms can create alpha for investors, and why the future of office belongs to owners who treat buildings as long-term relationships rather than short-term transactions. In this episode, you will hear: How Sage Realty evolved from traditional office ownership into a branded office platform Why tenant renewal rates are far lower than most underwriting assumptions The role of hospitality, SOPs, and service recovery in commercial real estate How experience-driven offices can increase rents, NOI, and long-term asset value Why office real estate isn't dead, but fundamentally changing Follow and Review If you enjoy the show, please follow Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing on Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review. It helps other listeners discover these conversations and supports the show's growth. Supporting Resources Connect with Jonathan: Website: https://sagerealty.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/experience_sage/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sage-realty-corporation/ Connect with Jonathan: Website - www.streamlined.properties YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/streamlinenj Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/jonathangreene Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties Email - info@streamlined.properties This episode was produced by Outlier Audio.
On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan Greene is joined by Stuart Gethner, a longtime real estate investor, educator, and connector who has spent decades helping investors move from analysis into action. Stuart shares insights from his experience coaching investors and building his own portfolio across multiple market cycles. The conversation centers on why real estate is ultimately a people business. Stuart explains how networking, local market knowledge, and face-to-face relationships help investors avoid costly mistakes—especially when investing out of state or relying too heavily on online education. He and Jonathan discuss the limits of "YouTube University" and why real confidence comes from real conversations with experienced investors. Jonathan and Stuart also dive into partnerships, property management, and investor self-awareness. From understanding your personal strengths to building complementary partnerships and avoiding shiny object syndrome, the episode emphasizes patience, humility, and long-term thinking as foundations for sustainable investing success. In this episode, you will hear: Why networking groups accelerate investor confidence and clarity The risks of relying solely on online education without local insight How partnerships work best when both sides have equal skin in the game Why investing close to home often reduces operational risk How patience and long-term thinking outperform "get rich quick" strategies Follow and Review If you enjoy the show, please follow Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing on Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review. It helps other listeners discover these conversations and supports the show's growth. Supporting Resources Connect with Stuart: Website: http://www.stuartgethner.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@StuartGethner Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Gethner-Education-Consulting/61578852277422/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stuartgethner LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/stuartgethner/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@stuart_gethner Connect with Jonathan: Website - www.streamlined.properties YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/streamlinenj Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/jonathangreene Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties Email - info@streamlined.properties This episode was produced by Outlier Audio.
On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan Greene sits down with Nick Corwin, founder of Oak and Ember, to explore what it really looks like to move from long-term rentals into short-term hospitality and eventually into ground-up development. Nick shares how an engineering mindset, strong mentorship, and disciplined downside analysis shaped his early investing decisions. The conversation traces Nick's evolution from owning Midwest long-term rentals to building unique short-term experiences in the Wisconsin Dells. He explains why chasing the middle of the market can be a losing strategy, how combining units and serving overlooked guest segments created an edge, and why operating short-term rentals requires far more systems and empathy than most investors expect. Jonathan and Nick also unpack the realities of entitlement risk, zoning battles, and development timelines. Nick offers a candid look at what it takes to push a project through local approvals, manage rising costs, and stay grounded when timelines and budgets inevitably expand. In this episode, you will hear: Why testing whether you even like being a landlord matters before scaling How Nick identified underserved short-term rental niches instead of competing in crowded markets The operational differences between long-term rentals and hospitality businesses Lessons learned from zoning, entitlement hurdles, and community resistance Why doubling both your budget and timeline can save you from painful surprises Follow and Review If you enjoy the show, please follow Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing on Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review. It helps other listeners discover these conversations and supports the show's growth. Supporting Resources Connect with Nick: Website: http://www.stayoakandember.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Korwinning Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/korwinning/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/korwinning/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@korwinning Connect with Jonathan: Website - www.streamlined.properties YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/streamlinenj Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/jonathangreene Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties Email - info@streamlined.properties This episode was produced by Outlier Audio.
On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan Greene sits down with Bri West, co-founder of Somerled Designs, to explore how strategic design has become a competitive advantage in today's short-term rental market. Drawing on her background in marketing and real estate investing, Bri explains why design should be treated as a revenue-driving investment rather than a cosmetic expense. The conversation dives into how niching down on a clear guest avatar, using data to guide design decisions, and prioritizing high-impact spaces can dramatically increase ADR—even if occupancy is lower. Bri also shares insights from managing and designing hundreds of short-term rentals nationwide, including common mistakes investors make, how to think about amenities and bed configurations, and why lifestyle photography and branding are no longer optional. Listeners will come away with a clearer framework for evaluating short-term rental opportunities, aligning design with long-term investment goals, and standing out in increasingly saturated markets. In this episode, you will hear: Why short-term rental design should start with data and investment strategy, not personal taste How niching down on a specific guest experience can outperform "general" properties The role of amenities, durability, and bed layout in guest satisfaction and reviews Why branding and lifestyle photography directly impact bookings and pricing power How to think about long-term competitiveness as markets become more saturated Follow and Review If you enjoy the show, please follow Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing on Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review. It helps other listeners discover these conversations and supports the show's growth. Supporting Resources Connect with Bri: Website: https://www.somerleddesigns.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/somerled.designs/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/somerled-designs/ Connect with Jonathan: Website - www.streamlined.properties YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/streamlinenj Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/jonathangreene Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties Email - info@streamlined.properties This episode was produced by Outlier Audio.
On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan Greene sits down with Ash Patel, a commercial real estate investor with more than 15 years of experience investing beyond multifamily. Ash shares how an early mixed-use deal opened his eyes to the advantages of commercial assets and ultimately reshaped his entire investing approach. The conversation explores why many commercial assets are misunderstood or overlooked, including office, retail, medical, and mixed-use properties. Ash explains how changing work patterns, suburban growth, and market cycles are creating rare opportunities to acquire high-quality commercial buildings at deep discounts, often well below replacement cost. Jonathan and Ash also dig into the mindset required to succeed in real estate, the dangers of chasing trends promoted on social media, and why newer investors may benefit from escaping overcrowded asset classes. This episode offers a grounded look at how flexibility, curiosity, and long-term thinking can open doors to less competitive—and often more resilient—investment opportunities. In this episode, you will hear: How Ash transitioned from residential and mixed-use into commercial real estate Why office, retail, and medical assets are misunderstood by many investors How market cycles create opportunities across different commercial asset classes The risks of following social-media-driven investment trends Why parking, location, and tenant mix matter more than asset labels How mindset plays a larger role than mechanics in long-term success Follow and Review If you enjoy the show, please follow Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing on Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review. It helps other listeners discover these conversations and supports the show's growth. Supporting Resources Connect with Ash: Website: http://www.investbeyondmultifamily.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ashpatel_official Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ash.patel.58118 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashpatel_official/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ash-patel-95b1a25/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ashpatel_official Connect with Jonathan: Website - www.streamlined.properties YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/streamlinenj Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/jonathangreene Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties Email - info@streamlined.properties This episode was produced by Outlier Audio.
On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan Greene sits down with Jennifer Ruelens, a longtime property manager and unapologetic truth-teller in the real estate industry. With more than two decades of hands-on experience, Jennifer shares what buy-and-hold investors often misunderstand about property management, tenant relationships, and the real work required to make rentals perform over time. The conversation explores why real estate investing is rarely passive, how deferred maintenance and avoidance cost investors far more than management fees, and why many landlords struggle when they underestimate the human side of housing. Jennifer explains how professional property management reduces risk, stabilizes assets, and helps investors focus on long-term wealth rather than short-term cash flow. Listeners will also hear a candid discussion about ego, DIY investing, family dynamics, and why many investors fail not because of bad deals, but because they avoid hard conversations and responsibility. This episode offers a grounded, experience-driven perspective on what it really takes to succeed with buy-and-hold real estate. In this episode, you will hear: Why buy-and-hold real estate is a business, not a passive investment How poor property management decisions erode long-term returns The true cost of deferred maintenance and conflict avoidance Why professional management often increases NOI despite added fees How stabilizing properties protects both tenants and investors The role of expectations, transparency, and service in tenant retention Follow and Review If you enjoy the show, please follow Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing on Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review. It helps other listeners discover these conversations and supports the show's growth. Supporting Resources Connect with Jen: Website: https://holditwithpmjen.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@holditwithpmjen Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HoldItwithPMJen/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/holditwithpmjen/ LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/jenniferruelens TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@holditwithpmjen Connect with Jonathan: Website - www.streamlined.properties YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/streamlinenj Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/jonathangreene Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties Email - info@streamlined.properties This episode was produced by Outlier Audio.
Jonathan Greene is joined by August Biniaz, co-founder and CIO of CPI Capital, to explore how early exposure to real estate shaped August's investing philosophy and led him from single-family investing into large-scale multifamily and build-to-rent strategies. August shares how his family's experience with real estate as a hedge against inflation influenced his long-term view on housing and capital preservation. The conversation dives into the realities of syndication, from learning the GP/LP structure through trial and error to building investor trust, infrastructure, and discipline over time. August explains why CPI focuses on U.S. markets like Tampa and San Antonio, how oversupply cycles create both risk and opportunity, and why patience and underwriting discipline matter more than deal volume. Jonathan and August also discuss the value of passive investing, especially for professionals who want real estate exposure without taking on a second job. August outlines how investors can think clearly about asset classes, sponsors, and alignment before committing capital, emphasizing that trust and communication are just as important as returns. In this episode, you will hear: How early family exposure to real estate can shape long-term investing instincts Why August transitioned from development into real estate private equity The differences between Canadian and U.S. multifamily investing environments How CPI evaluates Tampa and San Antonio amid oversupply and shifting demand Why being a limited partner can be the best education for future operators What passive investors should consider when choosing asset classes and sponsors Follow and Review If you enjoy the show, please follow Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing on Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review. It helps other listeners discover these conversations and supports the show's growth. Supporting Resources Connect with August: Website: https://cpicapital.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@realestateinvestingdemystified Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/soheil.biniaz Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/augustbiniaz/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/augustbiniaz/ Twitter: https://x.com/CPI_Capital Connect with Jonathan: Website - www.streamlined.properties YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/streamlinenj Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/jonathangreene Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties Email - info@streamlined.properties This episode was produced by Outlier Audio.
On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan Greene sits down with Bob Fraser, bestselling author of Invest Like a Billionaire and CFO and Chief Macro Strategist at Aspen Funds. Bob shares how billionaire investors moved away from traditional 60/40 portfolios toward alternative investments—and why everyday investors can adopt the same mindset without billionaire-level wealth. Throughout the conversation, Bob explains why professionally managed real estate is often the most approachable entry point into alternatives, especially for investors who want exposure without taking on a second full-time job. He and Jonathan explore the differences between active and passive investing, the importance of aligned partnerships, and why many investors underestimate the operational demands of being a landlord. The discussion then dives deep into macro-driven investing, with Bob outlining why industrial real estate stands out today due to reshoring trends, logistics demand, and lower construction and operational complexity compared to multifamily. Bob also explains why fund structures can be more efficient than single-asset syndications, offering better capital deployment, diversification, and investor control—especially around taxes and liquidity. In this episode, you will hear: Why billionaires shifted away from traditional portfolios toward alternatives How everyday investors can think like billionaires without massive capital The difference between active real estate and truly passive investing Why industrial real estate is outperforming multifamily in the current cycle How fund structures can improve diversification, tax efficiency, and liquidity What macro trends Bob looks for when evaluating alternative investments Follow and Review If you enjoy the show, please follow Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing on Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review. It helps other listeners discover these conversations and supports the show's growth. Supporting Resources Connect with Bob: Website: http://aspenfunds.us/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aspenfunds LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobfraser10/ Connect with Jonathan: Website - www.streamlined.properties YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/streamlinenj Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/jonathangreene Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties Email - info@streamlined.properties This episode was produced by Outlier Audio.
On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan Greene sits down with Greg Trotter, CEO and founder of Commercial Building Consultants, to unpack what real estate investors often miss during commercial due diligence. With over 40 years of experience in construction, inspections, and forensic building analysis, Greg explains how his role is to act as a "bodyguard" for investors—protecting their equity by identifying real risks before they close. Greg walks through how property condition assessments should align with an investor's hold period and exit strategy, why cosmetic upgrades are often a distraction, and how overlooked systems like roofs, drainage, lift stations, and life-safety infrastructure can quietly derail deals. He also shares stories from projects across the U.S. and beyond, highlighting how climate, weather events, deferred maintenance, and operational blind spots create long-term financial consequences. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of why transparency, conservative planning, and honest reporting matter more than optimism in underwriting—and how knowing the full story of a building can protect both operators and investors from costly surprises down the line. In this episode, you will hear: How Greg's construction background led him into commercial inspection and consulting Why due diligence must account for hold period, capex timing, and exit strategy Commonly overlooked risks like drainage, roofing, lift stations, and life-safety systems How deferred maintenance compounds into multimillion-dollar problems Why weather events, storm surge, and climate risks are changing how buildings must be evaluated The difference between cosmetic improvements and protecting long-term asset value Follow and Review If you enjoy the show, please follow Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing on Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review. It helps other listeners discover these conversations and supports the show's growth. Supporting Resources Connect with Greg Website: http://thecbcteam.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thebuildingguy/ Connect with Jonathan: Website - www.streamlined.properties YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/streamlinenj Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/jonathangreene Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties Email - info@streamlined.properties This episode was produced by Outlier Audio.
On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan Greene sits down with Joel Kraut, co-founder and managing director of BRRRR Loans, to explore the realities of long-term real estate investing, private lending, and sustainable financial decision-making. Drawing on decades of experience as an investor, lender, and former Wall Street trader, Joel challenges popular investing shortcuts and explains why slowing down and mastering fundamentals is often the fastest path to real wealth. The conversation dives deep into the limitations of the FIRE movement, the dangers of over-leverage, and how emotional decision-making derails otherwise solid deals. Joel shares lessons from market cycles, early BRRRR strategies, and hard-earned mistakes, emphasizing that success in real estate is far more about people, preparation, and honesty than chasing the newest strategy or acronym. Listeners will gain practical insight into what lenders actually look for in borrowers, how to present deals professionally, why organization and credit discipline matter, and how long-term relationships—not hype—drive consistent success in real estate. In this episode, you will hear: Why the FIRE movement often overlooks patience and foundational investing How Joel's early real estate and refinancing experience shaped his lending philosophy The real dangers of over-leverage and market-specific concentration risk What private lenders look for beyond credit scores and projections Why honesty, preparation, and organization matter more than clever deal structures How long-term relationships create repeat business and lasting wealth Follow and Review If you enjoy the show, please follow Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing on Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review. It helps other listeners discover these conversations and supports the show's growth. Supporting Resources Connect with Joel: Website: http://www.brrrr.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@BrrrrLoans Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brrrrloans/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brrrr_loans/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joelbrrrr/?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joel-kraut/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@brrrr_loans Connect with Jonathan: Website - www.streamlined.properties YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/streamlinenj Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/jonathangreene Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties Email - info@streamlined.properties This episode was produced by Outlier Audio.
On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan Greene sits down with Steve Afra, a nationally recognized real estate finance expert, private lender, and co-founder of Nvestor Funding. Steve shares how growing up in New York's old-school real estate world shaped his approach to lending, underwriting, and relationships, starting with working alongside his father rehabbing HUD homes and later moving into mortgage lending at a young age. The conversation dives deep into the realities of private lending, including why defaults are rarely about fraud, how life events impact borrowers, and why the goal is always to work deals out—not take properties back. Steve explains what experienced lenders actually look for in borrowers, why presentation and honesty matter more than perfect credit, and how emotional decision-making and best-case-scenario underwriting derail otherwise viable projects. Listeners will walk away with practical insights on evaluating deals conservatively, sourcing opportunities the old-school way, building trust through relationships, and why patience, persistence, and empathy remain the most underrated advantages in real estate investing today. In this episode, you will hear: How Steve got started in real estate and lending at a young age in New York Why private lenders are not "loan-to-own" and actively avoid foreclosures What lenders really look for beyond credit scores and financials Why presentation, track record, and worst-case underwriting matter The dangers of emotional investing and best-case-scenario comps How old-school relationship building still beats technology-only strategies Follow and Review If you enjoy the show, please follow Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing on Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review. It helps other listeners discover these conversations and supports the show's growth. Supporting Resources Connect with Steve Website: https://thesteveafra.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@afrasteve Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/steve.afra.18 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesteveafra LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steveafra/ Website: https://nvestorfunding.com/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@afrasteve Connect with Jonathan: Website - www.streamlined.properties YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/streamlinenj Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/jonathangreene Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties Email - info@streamlined.properties This episode was produced by Outlier Audio.
On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan Greene speaks with Spencer Hilligoss, CEO and co-founder of Madison Investing, about his journey from growing up in a real estate brokerage household to becoming a thoughtful passive investor and investing club leader. Spencer shares how a long career in Silicon Valley tech shaped his approach to risk, cash flow, and long-term financial planning, and why real estate became a critical tool for building stability beyond W-2 income. The conversation explores Spencer's transition from owning rental properties to focusing on limited partner investing, including how capacity, family priorities, and operational realities influenced that shift. Spencer breaks down how he evaluates sponsors, why track record and communication matter more than flashy projections, and what recent market cycles have reinforced about conservative underwriting and disciplined deal selection. Listeners will gain clarity on when passive investing makes sense, how to think about risk and accountability as an LP, and why education and mindset—not deal hype—are the foundation of long-term success. In this episode, you will hear: How growing up in a brokerage family influenced Spencer's investing mindset Why W-2 income alone isn't enough for long-term financial resilience The transition from owning rentals to passive LP investing How to evaluate sponsors, track record, and deal structure Why "passive" investing still requires active due diligence Lessons learned from recent market shifts and recalibrated return expectations Follow and Review If you enjoy the show, please follow Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing on Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review. It helps other listeners discover these conversations and supports the show's growth. Supporting Resources Connect with Spencer Website: http://www.madisoninvesting.com/ Website: http://www.spencerhilligoss.com/ Twitter: https://x.com/SpenceHilligoss LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/shilligoss/ Connect with Jonathan: Website - www.streamlined.properties YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/streamlinenj Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/jonathangreene Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties Email - info@streamlined.properties This episode was produced by Outlier Audio.
On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan Greene sits down with Brian Tran, founding partner of 50 Hills, host of the Winners Club podcast, and a real estate investor with over 100 flips and a multimillion-dollar portfolio. Brian shares how his family's immigration story shaped his commitment to real estate, the early mistakes he learned from buying in tough neighborhoods, and how those lessons guided his long-term investing strategy. Brian breaks down how he balances appreciation markets like California with cash-flow markets out of state, treating his portfolio the way a financial advisor would diversify assets. He also dives into the role of wholesaling and flipping as active income engines, the importance of delaying gratification, and why mindset—not capital—is the biggest barrier for new investors. Listeners will hear practical guidance on getting started in real estate without shortcuts, why buying your first property matters more than perfect timing, and how treating real estate like a real business creates long-term freedom and stability. In this episode, you will hear: How Brian's parents' immigration journey influenced his approach to real estate Why buying in rough neighborhoods taught hard but valuable lessons How to balance appreciation and cash flow across different markets The role of wholesaling and flipping in building investable capital Why mindset and focus matter more than chasing quick wins How buying your first property creates long-term momentum Follow and Review If you enjoy the show, please follow Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing on Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review. It helps other listeners discover these conversations and supports the show's growth. Supporting Resources Connect with Brian Website: http://mrbriantran.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Mr.BrianTran TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mrbriantran?lang=en Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mr.briantran/ Connect with Jonathan: Website - www.streamlined.properties YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/streamlinenj Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/jonathangreene Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties Email - info@streamlined.properties This episode was produced by Outlier Audio.
Jonathan Greene welcomes back Katie Cline, a senior global PR and communications leader turned hospitality and short-term rental expert, to explore her evolving philosophy behind Second Home First. Katie shares the personal story that led her to buy a vacation home before a primary residence—and how that unconventional decision unlocked both financial flexibility and deeper family experiences. They discuss why renting in high-cost cities can coexist with smart real estate investing, how short-term rentals can function like a hybrid between lifestyle asset and retirement strategy, and why mindset—not money—is often the biggest barrier holding people back. Katie also explains how designing properties around personal preferences creates stronger guest experiences, better reviews, and more resilient performance across markets. The key takeaway: real estate doesn't have to follow a single, traditional path. By aligning investments with lifestyle goals, hospitality values, and intentional design, investors can build assets that generate income today while still creating meaningful memories along the way. In this episode, you will hear: What "Second Home First" really means—and why it challenges the traditional homeownership timeline How short-term rentals can provide both lifestyle benefits and long-term financial security Why renting a primary home can offer flexibility while still building wealth through real estate The importance of designing properties around your own preferences and ideal guest avatar How hospitality mindset and intentional design drive better bookings and guest experiences Why breaking from conventional investing narratives can open up more creative opportunities Follow and Review If you enjoy the show, please follow Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing on Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review. It helps other listeners discover these conversations and supports the show's growth. Supporting Resources Connect with Katie: Website: http://buyyoursecondhomefirst.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SecondHomeFirst Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/buyyoursecondhomefirst/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/second-home-first/ Episode 216: https://zenandtheartofrealestateinvesting.com/podcast/216/ Connect with Jonathan: Website - www.streamlined.properties YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/streamlinenj Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/jonathangreene Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties Email - info@streamlined.properties This episode was produced by Outlier Audio.
Jonathan Greene sits down with Steph Weber, CEO of The Weber Co., to break down why short-term rental owners can't rely solely on Airbnb if they want long-term control and growth. Steph explains how direct branding protects your business from platform changes, helps guests connect emotionally to what you offer, and creates a clearer path to repeat stays and referrals. They also dig into what it actually takes to build a brand guests remember, beyond pretty photos and a few amenities. Steph shares how to define a real target audience (often starting with yourself or a past/future version of yourself), how to turn amenities into guided experiences, and why collecting guest emails is one of the simplest, most overlooked moves STR operators can make. The biggest takeaway: today's STR world isn't a side hobby—it's a hospitality business. And the operators who win are the ones who design intentionally, market consistently, and build a brand they own. In this episode, you will hear: Why direct branding matters when you don't control the platform that drives bookings How Airbnb changes can impact hosts—and why brand autonomy is the hedge What it means to create a "branded guest experience" (not just a place to sleep) How to define your avatar and design for a specific audience (not the masses) Why email lists are "low-hanging fruit" and how they power direct bookings Turning amenities into intentional rituals and guided experiences guests remember Follow and Review If you enjoy the show, please follow Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing on Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review. It helps other listeners discover these conversations and supports the show's growth. Supporting Resources Connect with Steph: Website: http://theweberco.com/ Instagram: http://instagram.com/theweberco LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephweberbrandcoach/ Connect with Jonathan: Website - www.streamlined.properties YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/streamlinenj Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/jonathangreene Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties Email - info@streamlined.properties This episode was produced by Outlier Audio.
Jonathan Greene sits down with Joe Rinderknecht, multifamily investor and co-founder of Cowboy Capital, to explore how he built a real estate portfolio by staying curious, solving problems, and building long-term relationships with owners. Joe shares how he broke into multifamily with seller financing, how he used subject-to strategies to help owners avoid foreclosure, and why empathy has become foundational to his investing style. Jonathan and Joe also explore the lessons learned from managing smaller properties, scaling into larger ones, and developing the operational discipline needed to create durable performance. Throughout the conversation, Joe explains how he approached deal structure early in his career, the importance of understanding seller pain points, and how his "word is bond" philosophy continues to shape the way he raises capital and works with investors now. He also reflects on partnership dynamics, risk tolerance, and the evolution from doing everything yourself to delegating, documenting, and building systems that allow a team to grow. Listeners will walk away with a grounded reminder that momentum in real estate often comes from doing the right thing—helping people, thinking long-term, and being willing to learn from every deal, no matter the size. In this episode, you will hear: How Joe got into multifamily through seller financing and why creative structures helped him get started without traditional barriers. The subject-to foreclosure story that shaped Joe's understanding of empathy, negotiation, and long-term relationship building. Why smaller properties became Joe's training ground for learning asset management, communication, and systems. How Joe's risk tolerance shifted over time and how partnership dynamics supported that growth. The importance of documentation, checklists, and processes as a business scales. Why Joe believes relationships—not deals—are the real foundation of a sustainable real estate career. Follow and Review If you enjoy the show, please follow Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing on Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review. It helps other listeners discover these conversations and supports the show's growth. Supporting Resources Connect with Joe: Website: https://cowboycapital.us/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@cowboycapital.us2025 Facebook: http://facebook.com/joe.rinderknecht Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joe_rinder LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joerinderknecht/ Connect with Jonathan: Website - www.streamlined.properties YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/streamlinenj Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/jonathangreene Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties Email - info@streamlined.properties This episode was produced by Outlier Audio.
On this week's episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan Greene sits down with interior designer Marcy Sagel, founder and principal of MSA Interiors, a nationally recognized commercial design firm specializing in multifamily, senior housing, healthcare, and large-scale developments. They explore how smart design decisions can dramatically impact renter experience, tenant retention, and net operating income—often without blowing up the budget. Marcy shares the story of how a single project with a supportive architect-mentor evolved into a portfolio of large-scale multifamily and healthcare work across the country. From there, Jonathan and Marcy dive into the details that operators often overlook: how lobby art and amenities shape first impressions, why designers insist on holding the spec once materials are chosen, and how transparency around product pricing can protect both developers and residents. Marcy explains why functionality is just as important as aesthetics—things like where the sofa and TV actually fit, whether you can get a couch down the hallway, and how closet space, bathrooms, lighting, and unit layouts influence who wants to live in a building and how much they're willing to pay. They also talk about how COVID changed amenity expectations, from coworking and Zoom rooms to package rooms, cold storage for grocery delivery, pet wash stations, and creative vending concepts for residents. Marcy highlights the unique demands of healthcare and senior living design, including memory care safety, assisted living functionality, and the importance of natural light and outdoor access in driving wellness. Throughout the conversation, she comes back to one central idea: if owners think about residents first and involve a design team early, they can future-proof their properties, reduce turnover, and outcompete newer projects for years to come. In this episode, you will hear: How Marcy transitioned from residential design into large-scale multifamily, healthcare, and senior living projects with the help of an architect-mentor. Why involving an interior designer early in a project can save money, prevent costly change orders, and create a cohesive, long-lasting design. Practical ways to upgrade B-class and affordable communities—on a HUD-constrained or tight construction budget—without sacrificing aesthetics. The design details that residents care about most: closet size, bathroom finishes, in-unit laundry, lighting, circulation, and furniture-friendly layouts. How COVID reshaped amenity programming with coworking areas, Zoom rooms, package rooms, cold storage, pet amenities, and flexible vendor spaces. The role of design in building community, reducing turnover, and making residents—and their families in senior living—feel safe, connected, and at home. Follow and Review If you enjoy the show, please follow Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing on Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review. It helps other listeners discover these conversations and supports the show's growth. Supporting Resources Connect with Marcy: Website: https://msainteriors.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/MSAInteriors LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/MarcySagel/ Connect with Jonathan: Website - www.streamlined.properties YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/streamlinenj Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/jonathangreene Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties Email - info@streamlined.properties This episode was produced by Outlier Audio.
Jonathan Greene delivers a solo milestone Episode 300, reflecting on what real estate investors really need to succeed in 2026. Drawing on 300 episodes' worth of conversations and ten key questions generated by ChatGPT, he walks through interest rates, debt and recapitalization risk, local supply and demand, asset selection, and how to think about the next phase of the market rather than trying to predict it. He shares how he's approaching the year ahead himself—doubling down on being an "asset hunter," investing as an LP in multifamily syndications, eyeing self-storage and Main Street mixed-use, and planning to add a short-term rental in upstate New York. Along the way, Jonathan talks about meetups, possible future retreats, and long-term plans to bring real estate education to younger generations, all while emphasizing the importance of daily research in your buy box over obsessing about national headlines. Listeners will hear why mindset and mental health come before any big investment move, how to vet operators in syndications, and why diversification by geography, asset type, and vehicle can help you weather whatever 2026 brings. Jonathan closes with reflections on legacy, his parents' influence, and what it means to build a real estate portfolio that actually supports a meaningful life. In this episode, you will hear: Why Jonathan treats interest rates as just one part of the deal calculation—and why waiting for "3% again" is a losing strategy. How to focus on your local buy box, study hot sheets, and spot the path of progress instead of obsessing over national housing headlines. The asset classes and strategies he's most interested in for 2026, from multifamily syndications and short-term rentals to self-storage and Main Street mixed-use. Why your mental health, personal life stability, and partner alignment are non-negotiables before making major investment decisions. How he uses tools like ChatGPT and data to research regulations, stress-test opportunities, and build more resilient, diversified portfolios without outsourcing his judgment. Follow and Review If you enjoy the show, please follow Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing on Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review. It helps other listeners discover these conversations and supports the show's growth. Supporting Resources Connect with Jonathan: Website - www.streamlined.properties YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/streamlinenj Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/jonathangreene Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties Email - info@streamlined.properties This episode was produced by Outlier Audio.
Jonathan Greene welcomes interior designer, real estate investor, and New York State licensed agent Mackenzie Grate to the show for a conversation about design-forward investing, building a rental portfolio from scratch, and choosing the right strategy for your lifestyle. Mackenzie, known as "Mac of All Trades," shares how she shifted from working as an assistant principal to becoming a full-time investor and designer, starting with her first long-term rental in Kingston and eventually expanding into short-term rentals, multifamily properties, and design consulting. Jonathan and Mackenzie explore mindset, risk tolerance, and how every investor evolves over time. Mackenzie explains why being clear about your investor identity matters, how to avoid overspending on design choices, and why community and local knowledge are essential for success. Her experience highlights the balance between creativity, practicality, and long-term planning. Listeners will learn what it truly takes to build a sustainable portfolio, from selecting the right first property to managing guest expectations and making design decisions that enhance both functionality and profitability. Mackenzie's combination of design expertise and hands-on investing experience offers thoughtful guidance for anyone looking to build a portfolio that performs. In this episode, you will hear: How Mackenzie bought her first long-term rental while working full-time in education The most common design mistakes investors make and how to avoid unnecessary spending Why knowing your investor identity should guide every strategic decision How local market knowledge and relationships support short-term rental success What realistic scaling looks like for new investors Why your first property does not need to be your dream property Follow and Review If you enjoy the show, please follow Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing on Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review. It helps other listeners discover these conversations and supports the show's growth. Supporting Resources Connect with Mackenzie: Website: www.moatinteriordesigns.com Instagram: @Mackofalltrades Connect with Jonathan: Website - www.streamlined.properties YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/streamlinenj Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/jonathangreene Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties Email - info@streamlined.properties This episode was produced by Outlier Audio.
Jonathan Greene sits down with Chris Grenzig, founder of JAG Property Management and JAG Capital Partners, a vertically integrated multifamily firm focused on Jacksonville and Orlando. Chris walks through his evolution from working at Toro to moving markets, taking on a 16-unit value-add deal, and learning property and construction management by doing. He and Jonathan explore what it's been like to operate through COVID, explosive rent growth, and then a sharp pullback in Florida. As the conversation unfolds, Chris breaks down how he approached that first 16-unit acquisition, the role his prior asset management experience played, and why local market knowledge became his unfair advantage. He speaks candidly about Florida's recent "perfect storm" of falling rents, rising insurance, and higher interest rates, and how those forces have impacted his portfolio and his investors. Chris and Jonathan also get tactical on out-of-state investing, the limits of BRRRR and flipping in today's environment, and the differences between property management and true asset management. Listeners will come away with a grounded understanding of what it really looks like to buy, renovate, refinance, and hold in a shifting market—and how to keep investor trust when the numbers don't go as planned. Chris's experience navigating tough cycles in Florida offers real-world lessons on conservative underwriting, staying honest with investors, and building a property management business that serves both accidental landlords and more sophisticated owners. In this episode, you will hear: How Chris transitioned from working at Toro to moving to Jacksonville and taking on his own 16-unit value-add property Why he chose to self-manage and oversee construction on a deal he'd never managed at that level before How COVID, rent drops, rising insurance, and interest rate hikes combined into a "perfect storm" for Florida multifamily Why local market knowledge and conservative underwriting matter more than ever in today's environment The realities and limitations of flipping and BRRRR strategies in higher-rate, higher-cost markets What investors should look for in a property manager—and why asset management and property management are not the same thing Follow and Review If you enjoy the show, please follow Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing on Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review. It helps other listeners discover these conversations and supports the show's growth. Supporting Resources Connect with Chris Grenzig: Website: https://orlandoproperty.management/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chris.grenzig Instagram: https://instagram.com/chris.grenzig LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-grenzig/ Connect with Jonathan: Website - www.streamlined.properties YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/streamlinenj Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/jonathangreene Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties Email - info@streamlined.properties This episode was produced by Outlier Audio.
On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan Greene welcomes Ari Rastegar, founder and CEO of Rastegar Capital and author of The Gift of Failure. Ari shares his journey from delivering pizzas and attending law school to building a vertically integrated real estate platform with institutional-scale developments across the country. The conversation centers on discipline, philosophy, and how setbacks became the foundation for both his personal growth and business success. Jonathan and Ari explore the mindset behind enduring market "winters," the cyclical nature of real estate, and why failure is an essential teacher. Ari discusses his approach to entitlements and master-planned communities, his prediction for one of the largest real estate booms in decades, and how technology—from robotics to 3D printing—could reshape the cost and speed of new construction. He also opens up about health, daily habits, and the quiet discipline that sustains high performance in volatile times. Listeners will take away a deeper understanding of how to balance ambition with patience, why zoning and long-term planning are undervalued edges, and what it means to invest in projects—and people—with lasting value. Ari's story is a reminder that compounding growth begins not in markets, but in the consistency of who you are when no one's watching. In this episode, you will hear: How a $3,500 land purchase in law school launched Ari's development career during the run-up to the Great Financial Crisis Why he views market "winter seasons" and failures as essential to building a resilient, multi-billion-dollar real estate platform The demographic, technological, and housing-supply forces that he believes will drive an unprecedented real estate boom over the next decade How personal development, tiny daily improvements, and emotional awareness compound into better business decisions Why zoning, entitlements, and construction innovation (including 3D-printed and robot-built housing) are critical to solving the housing shortage How Rastegar Capital structures large projects so accredited investors can co-invest alongside major institutions Follow and Review If you enjoy the show, please follow Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing on Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review. It helps other listeners discover these conversations and supports the show's growth. Supporting Resources Connect with Ari: Website: www.rastegarcapital.com Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@rastegarcapital Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rastegarcapital Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rastegar/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rastegarcapital/ Twitter: https://x.com/arirastegar Connect with Jonathan: Website - www.streamlined.properties YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/streamlinenj Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/jonathangreene Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties Email - info@streamlined.properties This episode was produced by Outlier Audio.
On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan Greene is joined by longtime Milwaukee investor and lender Scott Lurie. Scott is the founder and owner of F Street Investments and The Hard Money Co., with deep experience in flipping, multifamily, industrial, private equity, and property management. Together, they explore what it really takes to build durable real estate and lending businesses across multiple cycles, from early "We Buy Ugly Houses" days to large multifamily conversions and a nine-figure lending platform. Scott and Jonathan dig into why "local always wins" in real estate, how national wholesalers have damaged the reputation of the industry, and the way relationship-driven business still compounds over decades. Scott explains the economics behind converting older Residence Inn hotels into multifamily, how he thinks about replacement cost and basis, and why tax-incremental financing has been key to new development in southeastern Wisconsin. They also unpack the coming pain in overlevered Class A multifamily, the role banks will play, and how disciplined operators can navigate the next 18 months. Listeners will come away with a clearer picture of what to look for in both operators and lenders, how to think about downside protection, and why character and work ethic are still the real edge in real estate. Scott's stories from buying hundreds of units at the bottom of the Great Financial Crisis and bootstrapping his lending company offer a grounded blueprint for building something that lasts—without chasing Lamborghinis or social media fame. In this episode, you will hear: How Scott went from a zero-experience franchisee with "We Buy Ugly Houses" in 2003 to a seasoned operator with a nationwide portfolio Why he believes local investors still have a huge edge over virtual buyers and national wholesalers—and how those wholesaler models created reputational damage The business case for converting older Residence Inn hotels into apartments, and why understanding replacement cost and basis matters more than buzzwords Scott's view on overlevered Class A multifamily, rising interest rates, and the equity erosion he expects to see over the next 18 months How The Hard Money Co. underwrites borrowers (closing only 7–9% of applications) and the behaviors that separate consistently successful flippers from those who end up in foreclosure Lessons from scaling to hundreds of units and a nine-figure lending platform while keeping investors first and building a track record of on-time payments Follow and Review If you enjoy the show, please follow Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing on Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review. It helps other listeners discover these conversations and supports the show's growth. Supporting Resources Connect with Scott Website: fstreet.com Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@fstreet414 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fstreetinvest/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fstreet_invest/ Website: thehardmoneyco.com Connect with Jonathan: Website - www.streamlined.properties YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/streamlinenj Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/jonathangreene Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties Email - info@streamlined.properties This episode was produced by Outlier Audio.
Jonathan Greene sits down with self-storage investor and operator Joe Downs, CEO of Bellrose Storage Group, which sources, acquires, and manages self-storage facilities across the East and Southeast. With a background in commercial real estate, capital raising, and distressed second mortgages, Joe explains how he pivoted into self-storage after discovering just how mom-and-pop dominated and under-optimized the space really was. Their conversation explores why self-storage is still far from "too late," how technology and remote management have transformed operations, and why small, overlooked facilities under 30,000 square feet can be a goldmine for investors willing to modernize them. Joe also breaks down creative plays like boat and RV storage, industrial outdoor storage, and converting large vacant retail boxes into multi-revenue storage campuses. Listeners will come away with a grounded understanding of why self-storage is such a powerful niche, what to look for in a mom-and-pop facility, and how to avoid overpaying by underwriting expenses correctly. Joe and Jonathan also discuss the importance of relationships and "caretaker" mentality with long-time owners, the role of SBA loans, and how to keep shiny object syndrome in check while still recognizing adjacent opportunities. In this episode, you will hear: How Joe went from distressed debt and 1031 capital raising to building a self-storage platform Why self-storage is still largely mom-and-pop owned and what that means for opportunity How technology, remote management, and autopay have transformed facility operations What to look for in a first small storage acquisition and how to approach owners as a "caretaker" The importance of underwriting real expenses (marketing, tech, management) so you don't overpay Creative self-storage derivatives, including boat and RV storage, IOS, and big-box retail conversions Follow and Review If you enjoy the show, please follow Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing on Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review. It helps other listeners discover these conversations and supports the show's growth. Supporting Resources Connect with Joe Downs: Website: https://belrosegrp.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/belrosestoragegroup Twitter: @downsjoe LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-downs-7990851/ Connect with Jonathan: Website - www.streamlined.properties YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/streamlinenj Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/jonathangreene Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties Email - info@streamlined.properties This episode was produced by Outlier Audio.
In this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan Greene speaks with John Azar of Peak 15 Capital about the power of strategic partnerships in commercial real estate. John shares his experience in structuring co-GP deals, managing multifamily funds, and creating opportunities that enable investors to scale their portfolios while minimizing operational involvement. He emphasizes the importance of selecting the right partner, practicing conservative underwriting, and leveraging expertise to optimize long-term returns. John and Jonathan explore the benefits of fund investments versus individual syndications. John explains how a diversified “bin” of assets, such as multifamily properties, industrial properties, and car washes, provides stability, access to multiple cash flow streams, and peace of mind for investors seeking smart, passive income. They also discuss how fund structures offer investors tangible exposure to real estate assets while minimizing the need for active property management. The conversation highlights the tangible nature of real estate compared to stocks or bonds. Investors can visit properties, evaluate assets in person, and see the land and buildings they're backing. This hands-on approach enables investors to make informed decisions, understand the true value of the assets, and trust their operators to execute effectively. Both Jonathan and John stress how real estate provides optionality and flexibility, making it a unique asset class for long-term wealth building. When evaluating deals, John emphasizes the importance of both people and numbers. Peak 15 Capital adopts a conservative underwriting approach, carefully analyzing rent growth, cap rates, and funding plans to avoid overly optimistic assumptions. John also notes the role of intuition and in-person meetings when selecting partners, advising investors to pass on deals that don't feel right, even if the projected returns appear attractive. Finally, John introduces Peak 15 Capital's multifamily accelerator course, which guides investors through every stage of multifamily investing, from identification and acquisition to management and disposition. The course blends Mom-and-Pop fundraising strategies with institutional-level insights, preparing investors to grow in the multifamily sector and scale their portfolios strategically. In this episode, you will hear: Starting in large scale development before moving into multifamily Advantages of diversified fund investments versus one-off syndications Lessons from the 2008 recession and relaunching in the southeast How real estate's tangible nature provides confidence and flexibility for investors Key criteria for deal evaluation: assumptions, underwriting, and partner selection The benefits of co-GP structures for leveraging capital and control Importance of reserves and time in weathering market downturns How the Peak 15 Capital multifamily accelerator course prepares investors for full-cycle investing Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Supporting Resources: Peak 15 Capital website - www.peak15cap.com John Azar's Instagram - www.instagram.com/jjazar Connect with John on LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/jalalazar Website - www.streamlined.properties YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties TikTok - www.tiktok.com/@trustgreene Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/StreamlinedReal Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/TrustGreene Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties Email - info@streamlined.properties Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.
In this episode of the BigMikeFund Podcast, Big Mike welcomes Jonathan Greene, real estate thought leader, luxury agent, coach, and host of the rapidly growing podcast Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing. Jonathan shares his unique journey from lawyer to lifelong investor, and how mindfulness and building have shaped his approach to real estate. From flipping homes with his father to investing in multifamily syndications, boutique hotels, and short-term rentals, Jonathan reveals how he blends active and passive strategies to create long-term wealth—and why learning from both wins and setbacks is key. With insights on risk, generational wealth, […]
In this episode of Living Off Rentals, we're joined by a thought leader in the real estate investing space who has built a diverse and intentional portfolio, all while designing a lifestyle rooted in peace, purpose, and efficiency. Jonathan Greene is the host of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing and has been investing in real estate since his early twenties. Raised by a real estate-savvy father, Jonathan learned firsthand the power of buying smart and holding long-term. But for Jonathan, it's never been just about building wealth: it's about doing it without sacrificing time or values. In this wide-ranging conversation, listen as Jonathan shares how he developed what he calls “time freedom,” why he doesn't answer phone calls, and how prioritizing self-care has made him a better investor. Enjoy the show! Key Takeaways: [00:00] Introducing Jonathan Greene and his background [02:04] How he gets into the real estate investing world [03:23] The shift from old school to the updated way of investing [05:25] First deals, lipstick flips, and early career in law [09:49] How his background in law and art impacts his investing strategy [14:27] Being an asset hunter [20:16] His main deal source for his deals, especially in Main Street mixed-use [21:41] Hybrid development of Main Street [25:05] The Origin of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing [27:49] Why phone calls are the biggest time-wasters in business [32:49] Scheduling self-care and maintaining boundaries as an entrepreneur [35:34] Effective ways to prioritize things that are important as a real estate investor [41:55] Lifestyle architecture [43:58] How to build your investing network without being pushy [46:28] Why most new investors should stop rushing and start showing up [49:05] Outro Guest Links: Website: https://zenandtheartofrealestateinvesting.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
When is the right time to invest in real estate? We've all asked ourselves this, and if you've been thinking about buying rentals, you probably have, too. Whether you're 20 or 50, have a little money or a lot, that first real estate deal can seem so...scary. You've never done this before, and things can (and will) go wrong, so how do you know you're ready? Have you read enough books, saved enough for emergencies, or looked at enough houses? We've got three investors who all started in different positions to help get you an answer. Dave started investing right after college when he was waiting tables and had barely any money in the bank. Henry began to invest well into his working career, but with a family to take care of in the near future, he had to invest differently. On the other hand, Jonathan Greene was born into real estate, with an investor father who taught him the ropes from childhood. Each expert started from a different place, but they all agree on when it makes sense to invest. How much money do you need to make? How much free time should you set aside? What should your bank account look like? Do you need to know how to renovate and repair? Each investor will share where they think you should be to successfully invest in real estate. Good news—you might already be there! In This Episode We Cover The right age to invest in real estate (and can you ever be too young/old?) How much money you should have in case your first deal goes wrong Growing your confidence to buy and how many houses you should view before bidding The time it takes to invest in real estate on the side (do you have the schedule for it?) Financial signs that you're NOT ready to buy a rental (and how to fix your finances) Is it too late to invest with high home prices and interest rates? And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/real-estate-1124 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
Is old-school real estate investing dead — or more powerful than ever?In this episode, we sit down with longtime investor and podcast host Jonathan Greene to unpack what's really working in real estate right now. From timeless fundamentals that still deliver results to modern tools that give today's investors a competitive edge, we break down how to succeed in a changing market.Jonathan shares how he's blended traditional investing with new-school strategies, why authenticity outperforms vanity metrics, and the real difference between doing deals and just playing influencer.We also dive into the rise of analysis paralysis, the power of meetups and mentorship, and what new investors get wrong when chasing “passive income.”Whether you're just getting started or rethinking your approach, this episode is your blueprint for cutting through the noise and focusing on what really drives success in real estate today. Free Rental Property Workshop: Learn how to buy your first (or next) rental property in 2025. Join us live on Thursday, May 22nd at 7PM EST! Save your seat here: https://start.juice-enterprises.com/home-page RESOURCES
Jonathan Greene is a thought leader in the real estate investing space. His podcast, Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing is one of the fastest-growing real estate podcasts in the world. He is a lifelong real estate investor, on-market team leader, and luxury agent, as well as a certified life coach and real estate coach. He hosts in-person and online real estate investor meetups monthly.Jonathan's company, Streamlined Properties, is a single-member LLC that sources off-market deals in New Jersey and other cities across the country. Streamlined Properties, brokered by ΓEA⅃, is his solo team that helps buyers, sellers, and investors make wise and informed real estate decisions. His team has been featured in RealTrends America's Best for 2022, 2023, and 2024, ranking in the top 1.5% of teams in the country.Jonathan has been involved in real estate transactions for more than 30 years. He runs a separate family real estate partnership with his sister, Karin. They have owned countless properties in New York, New Jersey, Florida, and California that were managed as both long-term and short-term rentals.Jonathan Greene provides real estate investment guidance, Zoom workshops, and in-person meetups monthly through his investor/podcast brand, Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing. His on-market team covers New Jersey and has deal funnels and agent relationships in every primary market. Jonathan is a licensed real estate associate broker in the state of New York and a licensed real estate broker-salesperson in the state of New Jersey.Jonathan is a national speaker who has been featured at Dippidi Deep Dive 2021 (keynote speakers were Gary V and Tom Ferry), Curaytor Excellence, NurtuRE Con, and local events. He was on the panel, How to Find Deals in an Uncertain Market, at BPCON 2023. He has been a guest on several real estate podcasts, such as BiggerPockets Podcast three time (eps. 584, 667, and 1054), The Best Real Estate Investing Show Ever, The Passive Income Attorney, and Multifamily Insights.Jonathan's background is as a former attorney, gallerist, museum curator, and educator. He grew up in Brooklyn Heights, NY, but graduated high school in NJ at the Peddie School. He has a B.A. in Criminal Justice from the University of Hartford and a J.D. from Nova Southeastern University Shepard Broad Law Center in Ft. Lauderdale. Jonathan lives in Mendham, New Jersey, and has two adult children.Jonathan's hub site can be found at www.trustgreene.com.Social links:www.zenandtheartofrealestateinvesting.comwww.trustgreene.comwww.streamlined.propertiesChapters00:00 Introduction to Passive Investing06:41 Transitioning from Active to Passive Investing12:24 Understanding the Passive Buy Box18:10 Exploring the Sub-100 Unit Market23:57 Navigating Debt and Investment Risks31:34 Resources for Passive Investors36:43 Personal Growth and Future Aspirations41:15 outro RANDY SMITHConnect with our host, Randy Smith, for more educational content or to discuss investment opportunities in the real estate syndication space at www.impactequity.net, https://www.linkedin.com/in/randallsmith or on Instagram at @randysmithinvestorKeywordspassive investing, real estate, syndications, market trends, investment strategies, multifamily, due diligence, buy box, debt management, wealth building
Why does this veteran real estate investor say that early retirement and financial freedom are a bad idea? Why does he think renting, NOT buying a house, makes more sense for most Americans in 2025? And what's the one mistake that lost him hundreds of thousands of dollars even after being an experienced investor for decades? Jonathan Greene, one of our favorite repeat guests, is back on the show to share. Jonathan's father, a serial real estate investor, taught him everything about rental properties early on. Together, they walked potential properties, snuck into foreclosed homes, reviewed the profits and figures line by line, and even dealt with evictions together. This equipped Jonathan with the skills to not only build generational wealth for his family but also financial freedom for himself. However, once he achieved it, Jonathan realized that early financial freedom wasn't worth it. But why? This episode looks into the mind of one of the most experienced investors in the entire industry. Jonathan shares why he still decided to work even after building a real estate portfolio, the investment he made that cost him severely, why he's moving his money into a more “passive” investment, the reason renting makes MORE sense than buying in 2025, and what a beginner should do RIGHT NOW to start investing in real estate. In This Episode We Cover: The reason Jonathan says early retirement/financial freedom is a mistake One thing every beginner to real estate investing should be doing right now Jonathan's huge loss and the lessons he learned about pricing yourself too high Renting vs. buying and the obvious choice for most Americans in 2025 What to teach your kids about real estate investing and generational wealth 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 Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, Repeat The House Hacking Strategy The Passive Real Estate Investing Show Listen to Jonathan's Podcast, Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing Invest in Turnkey Properties with REI Nation Grab the Syndication Investing Book, “The Hands-Off Investor” Find an Investor-Friendly Agent in Your Area Renting a Home Is Financially Better Than Buying—Wait, What?! Connect with Jonathan Connect with Dave Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/real-estate-1054 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
Greg Papillon, ASTHO Director of Public Health Innovation, tells us about the launch of ASTHO's Innovation Advisory Council; Jonathan Greene, Deputy Assistant Secretary at the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, reflects on the response in North Carolina to Hurricane Helene; and ASTHO and the National Community Action Partnership are hosting a webinar focused on lessons learned from the vaccine equity project. ASTHO News Release: ASTHO Launches Public-Private Advisory Council to Address Critical Public Health Challenges Vaccine Equity Project Webinar ASTHO Web Page: Stay Informed
Rent To Retirement: Building Financial Independence Through Turnkey Real Estate Investing
Rent To Retirement: Building Financial Independence Through Turnkey Real Estate Investing
VISIONS IN TANDEM, is a collaborative Retrospective Exhibition of Dobree Adam's fiber art intertwined with Jonathan Greene's poems. Lexington Art League, August 2 to September 20, 2024 This collaborative retrospective exhibition of works in fiber and photographs intertwined with poetry considers dialogues of vision and voice in the spirit of haiga, the Japanese tradition of painting with haiku. The art of haiga is about the synergy of collaboration, the richness and depth of an added layer of meaning each work brings to the other. This exhibition centers on brief encounters and in-depth responses to living on their Kentucky River farm as well as to their travels. These encounters have brought reactions to landscape, sense of place, colors and rhythms, ambience, architecture, culture, and design aesthetics as well as inspirations for new bodies of work. In the spirit of haiga, consider how the poems, fiber art, and photographs are related, and how seemingly unrelated works influence or redefine one another.Dobree and Jonathan have developed a deep artistic collaborative relationship over their 50 years together. Dobree has become not only Jonathan's personal editor but also a major contributor in the publishing of many Gnomon Press books and books Jonathan has designed and/or produced for others. They have had collaborative shows at the Albrecht-Kemper Museum in Missouri, the Headley-Whitney Museum, and the Evansville Museum of Art.For more and to connect with us, visit https://www.artsconnectlex.org/art-throb-podcast.html
Chris Seveney explores the concept of long-term real estate investing with Jonathan Greene. They challenge popular notions of quick financial freedom through real estate and discuss the importance of patience and strategic thinking in building wealth. Chris and Jonathan, both experienced investors, share insights on the value of W-2 jobs, the pitfalls of chasing trends, and the benefits of steady, long-term approaches to real estate investment. They offer a refreshing perspective on building a sustainable real estate portfolio, emphasizing the importance of relationships, continuous learning, and adapting to market changes. This conversation provides listeners with practical advice on navigating the real estate landscape and developing a mindset for long-term success.
On this episode of the Passive Income Attorney podcast, Seth is joined by Jonathan Greene, as they take a deep dive into how to successfully run a fix and flip business, how to find an investor-friendly real estate agent, and most importantly, how to live a focused, yet balanced lifestyle. Jonathan, as a self-proclaimed introvert, shares his journey of leaving a thriving business behind to completely unplug from the world for a whole year to focus on himself and his happiness. Jonathan is a former attorney and has over 30 years of real estate experience. Enjoy! “Everybody wants to push everything forward so fast. . . but I don't think they're looking wide enough. . . I think everybody needs to take a step back and look at an aerial view of their life.” HIGHLIGHTS: Here's a breakdown of what to expect in this episode: How exposure to real estate growing up set the table for his business today Transitioning from a law practice, to the art industry, to real estate Discover how to make house-flipping passive with a team that can make decisions for you How to find investor-friendly real estate agents Why you need to have the knowledge before the capital in real estate The importance of self-reflection to accelerate your business And so much more! ABOUT | JONATHAN GREENE: Jonathan Greene is a real estate investor and team leader/concierge agent, and a certified life coach and real estate coach. He is also a former attorney, gallerist, museum curator, and educator who left standardized employment to pursue his lifelong obsession with real estate investing full-time. Jonathan's company, Streamlined Properties, is a single-member LLC sourcing off-market deals in New Jersey and other cities across the country. Streamlined Properties On-Market, brokered by eXp Realty, is a fast-growing nationwide team of investor-friendly real estate agents built to fill the niche for real estate investors who need agents who understand exactly what they are looking for. They are training and mentoring agents to become investor-friendly in their market, with the long-term goal of helping them build their own team and their own investment portfolio. Jonathan has been involved in real estate transactions for more than 30 years. He runs a separate family real estate partnership with his sister, Karin. They have several properties in New York, New Jersey, and California that they manage. Jonathan provides real estate investment guidance and workshops all over New Jersey and nationally and can advise on the viability of any market. In 2018, Jonathan took a year off from the real estate business and local investment guidance to focus on living a minimalist life. He deleted all of his social media except Instagram and committed to living his life on his own terms and not at the end of a phone. Jonathan is a national speaker who has been featured at Dippidi Deep Dive, Curaytor Excellence, and NurtuRE Con, as well as local events. He has also brought these skills to podcasting with two podcasts, Dad and Assemblage. Dad is a parenting podcast about the role fathers play in our lives. Assemblage is a podcast for creatives building something unique. Jonathan grew up in Brooklyn Heights, NY, but graduated high school in NJ at the Peddie School. He has a BA in Criminal Justice from the University of Hartford, where he graduated magna cum laude. Jonathan also has a J.D. from Nova Southeastern University Shepard Broad Law Center in Ft. Lauderdale, FL. He lives in West Orange, New Jersey, with his two children. FIND | JONATHAN GREENE: Website: https://www.streamlined.properties/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-greene-re/ ✈️ CONNECT | SETH BRADLEY:
Jonathan Greene is a thought leader in real estate investing, hosting the fast-growing podcast, Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing. With over 30 years of experience, he is a lifelong investor, on-market team leader, luxury agent, and certified life and real estate coach. He organizes monthly investor meetups and runs Streamlined Properties, a single-member LLC sourcing off-market deals across the country. His team, brokered by ΓEA⅃, helps buyers, sellers, and investors make informed decisions, ranking in the top 1.5% in RealTrends America's Best for 2022-2024. Jonathan, licensed in New York and New Jersey, also runs a family real estate partnership with his sister, managing properties in NY, NJ, FL, and CA. He is a national speaker featured at major events and on podcasts like BiggerPockets. Jonathan's background includes roles as an attorney, gallerist, museum curator, and educator. He holds a B.A. in Criminal Justice and a J.D. from Nova Southeastern University. Jonathan lives in Mendham, NJ, with two adult children. To get in touch with Jonathan, reach out to him on this website: https://www.trustgreene.com/ Keeping it Real Estate is brought to you by Granite Towers Equity Group, helping investors create passive income through multifamily real estate. To get in touch with the founders of Granite Towers, Mike Roeder and Dan Brisse, visit https://www.granitetowersequitygroup.com/contact
In this episode, Jonathan shares his life journey of triumphing beyond incarceration. He talks about rebuilding his life by starting a trucking business after leaving prison and emphasizes the importance of going with your gut, finding your why and having determination. Connect with Jonathan Greene: https://www.davonandgreene.com CONFESSIONS is now available: https://mirrortalkpodcast.com/confessions-book/ Thank you for joining me on this MIRROR TALK podcast journey. Kindly subscribe on any platform. Please do not forget to leave a review and rating. Let us stay connected: https://linktr.ee/mirrortalkpodcast More inspiring episodes and show notes here: https://mirrortalkpodcast.com/podcast-episodes/ Your opinions, thoughts, suggestions and comments matter to us. Share them here: https://mirrortalkpodcast.com/your-opinion-matters/ Invest in us by becoming a Patreon. Please support us by subscribing to one or more of the offerings that we have available at http://patreon.com/MirrorTalk Every proceeds will improve the quality of our work and outreach. To serve you better.