Passive Investor Tips is a weekly series hosted by full-time passive investor and Best Ever Show host, Travis Watts. In each bite-sized episode, Travis breaks down passive investor topics, simplifying the philosophy and mindset while providing tactical, valuable information on how to be a passive investor.

In this episode, Travis Watts breaks down the three steps he uses to determine if an investment is right for him at any given point in time. They include knowing your goals, knowing your values, and evaluating the investment to see if it matches those two things.

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Jason Balara of Lark Capital Group shares his journey from being a veterinary surgeon to becoming a successful real estate investor. With a focus on multifamily properties, student housing, self-storage, and even small businesses, he provides insights and strategies that will captivate commercial real estate investors looking for diverse opportunities.

Key Takeaways:

• Diversification Matters: While specializing in multifamily properties in a specific market, he also explores opportunities in student housing, self-storage, and even small businesses. Diversification can help mitigate risks and create a well-rounded portfolio.
• The Power of Syndication: Syndication allows investors to scale their projects and take on larger deals while transitioning from a hands-on approach to a more CEO-like role. It's a way to leverage the expertise of others and build wealth over the long term.
• Impact-Driven Investing: Apart from financial gains, Jason discusses the importance of making an impact through investments. He shares his commitment to helping fellow veterinarians improve their financial situations and highlights the significance of strategic partnerships and giving back to the community.
  

Jason Balara | Real Estate Background

• CEO Lark Capital Group
• Portfolio:
  • Active:
    • 236 units multifamily
    • 450 units self-storage
    • 101 units student housing
  • Passive
    • 600+ units multifamily
    • Fund: 450 units multifamily
• Based in: Los Angrles, CA
• Say hi to him at: 
  • Instagram
  • LinkedIn

• • Know Your Why Podcast
  • www.larkcapital.com
• Best Ever Book: Who Not How by Dan Sullivan
• Greatest Lesson: Perfection is the enemy of growth.

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Brian Alfaro of Headway Capital Investments provides valuable insights on how to succeed in the competitive world of commercial real estate investing from building trust with investors to navigating the complexities of raising capital.

Brian Alfaro | Real Estate Background

• Headway Capital Investments
• Portfolio:
  • 3,335 units
• Based in: Houston, TX
• Say hi to him at: 
  • LinkedIn
  • headwayinvestment.com
• Best Ever Book: 7 Habits Of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covery
• Greatest Lesson: Watching somebody else succeed on a deal I backed out on just because I was scared. Don't get stuck in analysis paralysis. If you've done the math, and it works, go for it.

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Ash Patel interviews Nelson Chu, founder and CEO of Percent, a credit marketplace. Chu discusses how Percent, started in 2018, fills gaps left by banks post-financial crisis, offering private credit lending, including in real estate. He explains how Percent caters to non-bank lenders needing to raise money and highlights the increasing demand for private credit due to banking regulations and changes.

Nelson Chu | Real Estate Background

• Founder and CEO of Percent
• Based in: New York City, New York
• Say hi to him at: 
  • LinkedIn
  • www.percent.com
  • Twitter

• Greatest Lesson: "Previously started a company that failed; business is about timing."

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On this episode of the Best Ever Show,  Joe Cornwell interviews Ryan Emrich. From an accounting background, he transitioned to real estate and focused on off-market multifamily properties by emphasizing the importance of formal partnerships and direct mail campaigns for finding deals.

Ryan Emrich | Real Estate Background

• Blue Canyon Equity Partners
• Based in: Boston, MA
• Say hi to him at: 
  • Instagram
  • Tiktok

• Best Ever Book: Crushing It in Apartments and Commercial Real Estate - Brian Murray
• Greatest Lesson: "You lose control with partners, but gain new perspectives and can accomplish more."

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Passive Investor Tips is a weekly series hosted by full-time passive investor and Best Ever Show host, Travis Watts. In each bite-sized episode, Travis breaks down passive investor topics, simplifying the philosophy and mindset while providing tactical, valuable information on how to be a passive investor.

In this episode of Passive Investor Tips, Travis Watts discusses redefining retirement as a financial goal rather than an age-based concept, emphasizing the importance of passive income through real estate and sharing data on retirement savings and expenses.

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Ryan Tanel, founder of Top Producer Investment Capital, shares strategies to maximize returns and accelerate wealth growth such as structuring deals that appeal to different types of investors, being flexible with your business plan, and executing fast property turnarounds.

Key Takeaways

• Know Your Investors' Goals: Tailor your deal structure to align with your investors' objectives. Some seek quick wealth accumulation, while others prefer stable, long-term investments. Understanding their goals helps you craft appealing opportunities.
• Force Appreciation and Trade Up: Ryan emphasizes the value of maximizing property appreciation within a shorter timeframe. Learn how forcing appreciation can lead to significant equity growth and the strategy of trading up to continually leverage your capital.
• Operational Challenges and Partner Selection: Real estate success hinges on effective partnerships and sound operational management. Ryan shares his experiences dealing with unexpected occupancy drops and expense increases, highlighting the importance of reliable partners and adaptability in a dynamic market.
  

Ryan Tanel | Real Estate Background

• Top Producer Investment Capital
• Portfolio:
  • 225 units in Texas
• Based in: Austin, TX
• Say hi to him at: 
  • topproducerinvestmentcapital.com
  • LinkedIn

• Best Ever Book: Shoe Dog by Phil Knight
• Greatest Lesson: Figure out who your partners really are because a lot of people can talk a big game, but when it comes to the daily grind of getting to do a lot of work or communicate effectively with a team, you really can see a different side of a lot of people. 

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In this episode of the Best Ever Show, Ryan and Dr. Francesca Byrne, from Cashflow Capital Club, discuss their multifamily real estate strategy. They focus on revamping underperforming properties in Texas, South Carolina, and Georgia, aiming for high investor returns through efficient management and strong partnerships.

Ryan and Dr Francesca Byrne | Real Estate Background

• Cashflow Capital Club
• Portfolio:
  • 2,000+ limited partnerships | Actively managing 800+ units / $100M+
• Based in: Dallas, TX
• Say hi to them at: 
  • www.CashflowCapitalClub.com
• Best Ever Book: Real Estate Raw by Bill Hamm
• Greatest Lesson: Risk-adjusted returns with CRE vs Single Family, and how big the appetite was for our opportunities.

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The Best Ever Book Club is a special monthly series hosted by Best Ever founder Joe Fairless. In each insightful episode, Joe dives into influential books that shape the world of investing, exploring key principles, strategies, and lessons to enrich both the seasoned investor and the curious novice.

In this episode of the Best Ever Bookclub, Joe Fairless and co-host Paul Mueller discussed "The Asset Mindset" by Daniel Fielding, emphasizing the importance of a positive mindset, choosing the right peer group, and the power of gratitude and perspective in personal growth. They highlighted taking action against fear and avoiding negative comparisons as key to self-development.

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From creative financing strategies to building valuable relationships with brokers, multifamily investing expert Jered Sturm delves into the key strategies that have fueled his success. Discover how he overcame challenges, his approach to sourcing quality deals, and the crucial lessons he's learned on his journey. 

Key Takeaways:

• Quality Deal Flow is Crucial: While opportunities may abound, focusing on deals that align with your investment criteria and market conditions is paramount. Building strong relationships with top brokers in your target market can be a strategic way to access high-quality deals.
• Building Meaningful Relationships: Going the extra mile to foster relationships with investors, brokers, and partners can set you apart in a competitive market. It's not just about transactions; it's about making a genuine impact.
• The Responsibility of Raising Capital: Jered's perspective on raising capital is rooted in responsibility. He underscores that investors should treat the capital entrusted to them as a portion of someone's life. Understanding the significance of this responsibility can guide your approach to raising and deploying capital wisely, ultimately benefiting both you and your investors.

Jered Sturm | Real Estate Background

• SNS Capital Group
• Portfolio:
  • Multifamily assets in Ohio
• Based in: Cincinnati, OH
• Say hi to him at: 
  • snscapitalgroup.com 
• Best Ever Book: Outlive by Peter Attia
• Greatest Lesson: Financial returns are supported by operations, and operations are supported by having the right people in the right seats that align with your organization's values.

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Commercial real estate experts Slocomb Reed, Ash Patel, and Joe Cornwell share their best and worst experiences in real estate investing. They offer valuable insights, lessons, and strategies that every investor should consider.

Key Takeaways:

• The Importance of Reserves: Slocomb Reed discusses the necessity of having sufficient reserves in real estate deals, especially when working with inherited tenant bases or C-class properties. He highlights the importance of staying disciplined and not compromising on the quality of contractors to avoid costly mistakes.
• Staying True to Your "Why": Joe Cornwell delves into the challenge of managing capital and the temptation to rush into new deals. He emphasizes the need to focus on your "why" in real estate investing, staying patient, and not letting idle cash dictate investment decisions.
• Lessons for All Investors: Ash Patel shares invaluable advice for real estate investors. He stresses the importance of comfortable idling large sums of cash, finding partners or selling deals if necessary, and understanding your "why" to maintain focus and purpose in your real estate journey.

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Michael Margarella, founder of Next Play Investments, delves into the nuances of commercial real estate investing, shedding light on the intriguing dynamics of the multifamily and self-storage sectors. In this episode, we uncover the evolving trends and opportunities in these markets while gaining essential insights into the strategies and challenges that resonate with commercial real estate investors in 2023.

Key Takeaways:

• Shifting Market Trends in 2023: Michael discusses how market trends have evolved in the commercial real estate space. In 2021 and 2022, self-storage opportunities seemed abundant, but by 2023, there was a decline in available self-storage opportunities. Multifamily, on the other hand, started to see more appealing opportunities in the latter half of 2023, attracting reasonable sellers. Understanding these market shifts is crucial for investors to adapt their strategies.
• Direct-to-Seller and Broker Relationships: Michael emphasizes the importance of building strong relationships with both sellers and brokers. He highlights the value of getting direct to sellers and shares his plans to enhance this aspect of his business in the coming years. Additionally, he discusses the significance of being on brokers' shortlists and fostering connections that make investors top of mind when opportunities arise.
• The Power of Lean Investing: One valuable lesson from the conversation is the importance of avoiding over-reliance on pro forma assumptions. Michael shares an example where their pro forma projections were heavily dependent on a new building, leading to challenges, delays, and increased costs. This experience highlights the significance of lean investing and relying on existing property fundamentals rather than overly optimistic assumptions.

Michael Margarella | Real Estate Background

• Next Play Investments
• Portfolio:
  • Self-storage facilities (200,000 sq. ft.)
  • Multifamily (~200 units)
• Based in: New York, New York
• Say hi to him at: 
  • nextplayinvestments.com
• Best Ever Book: Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki
• Greatest Lesson: Specific to self-storage, never move forward on a deal that only pencils with the addition of a newly constructed building on the property.

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Commercial real estate experts Slocomb Reed, Ash Patel, and Joe Cornwell share their best and worst experiences in real estate investing. They offer valuable insights, lessons, and strategies that every investor should consider.

Key Takeaways:

• The Importance of Reserves: Slocomb Reed discusses the necessity of having sufficient reserves in real estate deals, especially when working with inherited tenant bases or C-class properties. He highlights the importance of staying disciplined and not compromising on the quality of contractors to avoid costly mistakes.
• Staying True to Your "Why": Joe Cornwell delves into the challenge of managing capital and the temptation to rush into new deals. He emphasizes the need to focus on your "why" in real estate investing, staying patient, and not letting idle cash dictate investment decisions.
• Lessons for All Investors: Ash Patel shares invaluable advice for real estate investors. He stresses the importance of comfortable idling large sums of cash, finding partners or selling deals if necessary, and understanding your "why" to maintain focus and purpose in your real estate journey.

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In this podcast episode, Ash Patel interviews Jim Sheils who discusses his transition from renovating to building new construction properties in Florida, focusing on the build-to-rent sector. He highlights the advantages of new constructions, the company's approach to targeting affordable markets, and their comprehensive property management services. The episode provides insights into investment strategies and the benefits of new constructions for investors.

Key Takeaways:

• Shift to New Construction: Jim Sheils emphasizes the strategic shift from renovating older homes to building new construction properties, especially in response to the evolving real estate market conditions.

• Build-to-Rent Focus: The episode highlights the advantages of the build-to-rent sector, including its potential for better returns, reduced maintenance issues, and more predictable cash flow for investors.

• Comprehensive Property Management: Jim discusses the importance of offering all-inclusive property management services, easing the burden for investors and ensuring a more streamlined and efficient investment experience.

Jim Sheils | Real Estate Background

• Partner at Southern Impression Homes & Co-Founder at 18 Summers
• Portfolio:
  • Build to Rent New Construction Single Families, Duplexes, and Quads.
  • +5,000 Buildable lots in Florida
• Based in: Jacksonville, FL
• Say hi to him at: 
  • LinkedIn
  • www.jjplaybook.com
• Best Ever Book: The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
• Greatest Lesson: "Go deep in your own unique abilities & delegate the rest."

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Passive Investor Tips is a weekly series hosted by full-time passive investor and Best Ever Show host, Travis Watts. In each bite-sized episode, Travis breaks down passive investor topics, simplifying the philosophy and mindset while providing tactical, valuable information on how to be a passive investor.

In this installment of Passive Investor Tips, Travis Watts discusses three strategies to gain a broader perspective in real estate investment. He focuses on foundational aspects beneficial to both beginners and experienced investors, emphasizing principles and life lessons vital in the field of real estate.

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In this episode, we dive deep into a powerful wealth-building strategy with real estate investor and military veteran, Charlie Hardage. Charlie shares his insights on using Home Equity Lines of Credit (HELOCs) to accelerate your real estate investments. Learn how to leverage HELOCs, even if you have a W-2 job, and discover the game-changing benefits of this strategy.

Key Takeaways:

• HELOCs: A Game-Changing Tool for Real Estate: Charlie explains how HELOCs can be a powerful tool for real estate investors, allowing them to tap into their home equity to fund new investments, all while minimizing closing costs and interest payments. He shares his own experiences using HELOCs to invest in various real estate opportunities, from apartments to self-storage.
• The Importance of Tracking Net Worth: Tracking your net worth is a critical step towards financial success. Charlie emphasizes the significance of monitoring your net worth regularly, as it provides an accurate measure of your financial progress. Setting ambitious goals and celebrating your achievements along the way can keep you motivated and focused on building wealth.
• Giving Back: Apart from his real estate journey, Charlie and his wife are passionate about giving back to the community. They have plans to establish charities to combat food waste and support local communities with healthy food options. Additionally, Charlie's military background fuels his desire to create a sense of community for veterans, especially those dealing with PTSD, to ensure they never feel alone.

Charlie Hardage | Real Estate Background

• H&K Investment Group LLC
• Portfolio:
  • 1,050+ units across six properties
• Based in: Nashville, TN
• Say hi to him at: 
  • LinkedIn
  • Passive Investor's Playbook Podcast
• Best Ever Book: The Gap and The Gain by Dan Sullivan
• Greatest Lesson: You need to think like the wealthy if you want to be wealthy.

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Ian Cruz, a seasoned real estate investor, shares his experiences and strategies in the world of commercial real estate. From networking tips that have propelled his success to the power of taking action and learning from mistakes, Ian's expertise is your secret weapon to thrive in the competitive world of commercial real estate. 

Key Takeaways:

• The Power of Networking: Ian emphasizes the importance of networking and how it played a pivotal role in his real estate journey. He recommends attending various meetups and events, even those outside your comfort zone, to expand your network and find like-minded investors.
• Taking Action and Learning from Mistakes: One of the most significant lessons Ian shares is the importance of taking action. He highlights the trap of analysis paralysis and how it hindered his progress initially. Ian encourages aspiring investors to start, even if it feels uncomfortable, as the best learning often comes from real-world experiences.
• Building Trust in Partnerships: Ian discusses the value of trust in forming successful partnerships. He touches on the significance of transparent communication, sharing experiences, and building a track record to attract capital partners. Additionally, he emphasizes the importance of having the right team, local connections, and systems in place to ensure project success.

Ian Cruz | Real Estate Background

• Founder of ELEV8 Capital
• Holds an active CPA license
• Manager of Finance at a Venture Capital firm
• Based In: San Jose, CA
• Multifamily investor in the Bay Area, CA and Cincinnati
• Leads and organizes a 100+ member group of investors focused on the Cincinnati market via Fractional, a one-stop shop that makes it easy to form partnerships (create LLC, bookkeeping, file K1's, source PM, secure financing, serve as guarantor for loan, etc.) and buy properties together.
• SAREcon 2023 Speaker, NVST Quarterly Mixer Speaker

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In this episode, we sit down with Shelley Peterson, a seasoned real estate investor and co-founder of Kahuna Investments, to discuss her journey in the world of commercial real estate investing. Shelley shares valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities she has encountered, emphasizing the importance of mentorship and taking action. We also delve into her unique approach to syndication and her commitment to giving back to the community.

Key Takeaways:

• Jump In and Take Action: Shelley's advice for aspiring real estate investors is simple yet powerful – don't overanalyze, take action. She encourages investors to dive into their first deal, whether through partnerships or joint ventures, and gain hands-on experience. Learning by doing is the fastest way to understand the intricacies of the real estate market.
• Importance of Effective Team Building: Shelley highlights the significance of building an effective team within your real estate investment endeavors. She discusses the book "The Five Dysfunctions of a Team" by Patrick Lencioni, which emphasizes trust, vulnerability, and teamwork as essential elements for success in real estate investing. Surrounding yourself with the right people is key.
• Community Involvement: Beyond financial success, Shelley and her team are passionate about giving back to the community. They actively engage in charitable activities and emphasize the importance of contributing resources and time to support local causes. As a real estate investor, making a positive impact in the community goes hand in hand with financial success.

Shelley Peterson | Real Estate Background

• President of Kahuna Investments
• Portfolio:
  • 3,000 units valued at over $250 million
• Based in: Chandler, AZ
• Say hi to him at: 
  • kahunainvestments.com
  • LinkedIn
• Best Ever Book: 12 Rules of Life by Jordan Peterson
• Greatest Lesson: Finding the faith and courage to undergo a personal reinvention.

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In this episode, Ash Patel interviews Michael Mandel, the CEO of CompStak, a leading provider of commercial real estate data. They delve deep into the world of commercial real estate data, discussing how it can be a game-changer for investors and uncovering the power of creativity in real estate investments. Listen in as they explore various data sets, discuss case studies, and provide insights into finding profitable deals using data-driven strategies.

Key Takeaways:

• Creativity Trumps Data Alone: While data is essential, Michael emphasizes that the key to success in commercial real estate investing lies in creativity. Investors who can think creatively and find unique ways to extract value from properties will often achieve the most significant returns.
• Data-Driven Decision-Making: Michael highlights how investors can leverage data to make informed decisions. They discuss the importance of using multiple data sets, such as lease rates, property details, loan data, and market analytics, to identify opportunities and mitigate risks.
• Identifying Profitable Deals: The conversation explores how data can help investors identify potentially lucrative deals. By analyzing data on property leases, square footage, loan maturities, and more, investors can uncover properties with untapped potential, creating opportunities for significant returns on investment.

Michael Mandel | Real Estate Background

• CEO and Co-Founder of CompStak
• Based in: New York, NY
• Say hi to him at: 
  • LinkedIn
  • compstak.com
• Best Ever Book: The Hard Thing About Hard Things by Ben Horowitz
• Greatest Lesson: The real estate investors that are gonna be the most successful are those who are the most creative, who can see beyond that data and find a new way to make money from an asset that isn't otherwise obvious.

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In this insightful episode, commercial real estate investor Justin discusses valuable insights and trends in the industry. Join the conversation as he shares his experiences in managing and growing his portfolio. From the evolving demand for one-bedroom apartments to the secrets of managing studios, Justin delves into what it takes to succeed in the dynamic world of commercial real estate.

Key Takeaways:

• Shifting Apartment Demand: Justin highlights the changing landscape of apartment demand, emphasizing the surprising growth in one-bedroom units. He explores the factors driving this shift and how it relates to broader economic trends.
• Maximizing Studio Apartments: Justin shares his strategies for success with studios, from managing turnovers to optimizing rental income. His insights shed light on why studios are in high demand and how to capitalize on their appeal.
• Thought Leadership and Branding: Justin's best-ever advice revolves around building a thought leadership platform. He stresses the importance of utilizing social media, podcasts, blogs, and meetups to showcase your expertise and attract valuable opportunities in the commercial real estate industry.

Justin Goodin | Real Estate Background

• Next Level Equity
• Portfolio:
  • 500 units
• Based in: Indianapolis, IN
• Say hi to him at: 
  • nextlevelequity.com
  • nextlevelfinancialmodeling.com
• Best Ever Book: Limitless by Jim Kwik
• Greatest Lesson: Choose quality over price when it comes to contractors. It can make or break your entire project.

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Passive Investor Tips is a weekly series hosted by full-time passive investor and Best Ever Show host, Travis Watts. In each bite-sized episode, Travis breaks down passive investor topics, simplifying the philosophy and mindset while providing tactical, valuable information on how to be a passive investor.

On todays episode of Passive Investor Tips, Travis Watts examines the stages of market cycles, pointing to current signs of a potential recession, such as rising interest rates and inflation. It contrasts these indicators with the recent profit in market indexes and stable housing prices, suggesting a complex economic situation.

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Are you curious about the untapped potential of the commercial real estate market? Discover the power of holding property and the critical lessons learned by J Scott in his journey of flipping 450 houses. Join us as we delve into the fascinating insights he shares about affordability, government intervention, and cash management in this engaging episode.

Key Takeaways:

• Market Dynamics and Affordability: J Scott discusses the evolving dynamics of the real estate market, emphasizing the impact of shifting demographics on affordability. He highlights the importance of understanding the distinctions in the rental market and how different income brackets are affected.
• Cash Management and Inflation: J Scott emphasizes the significance of cash management and the role it plays in real estate investing, especially during periods of inflation. He provides valuable insights into the relationship between inflation and treasury yields, offering a balanced perspective on the impact of inflation on investment strategies.
• Government Intervention and Long-Term Solutions: J Scott explores the role of government intervention in addressing affordability challenges in real estate. He advocates for incentivizing investors to create market-based solutions, rather than relying solely on legislative measures, and discusses the potential long-term implications for the real estate landscape.

J Scott | Real Estate Background

• Partner at Bar Down Investments and Host of the Drunk Real Estate Podcast
• Portfolio: 
  • About 1,000 units of SFR and multifamily
  • 5,000 units as an LP
• Based in: Sarasota, FL
• Say hi to him at: 
  • jscott.com
• Best Ever Book: Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman
• Greatest Lesson: The value in holding property for the long-term. That's where real wealth building happens.

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In this episode, we dive deep into the world of commercial real estate with Mike Holdwick, a seasoned investor who has mastered the art of asset diversity and high returns. Mike shares his journey from a W2 employee to a successful real estate entrepreneur, offering valuable insights and strategies that can help commercial real estate investors achieve financial freedom.

Key Takeaways:

• Diverse Asset Portfolio: Mike emphasizes the importance of diversifying your commercial real estate investments. From neighborhood offices to flex spaces, industrial properties, and medical buildings, he highlights how owning various asset types can provide stability and growth opportunities even in changing market conditions.
• Taking Control of Your Finances: Mike's journey reflects the power of taking control of your financial destiny. He shares his transition from working a full-time job to actively building his real estate portfolio on the side, proving that with the right mindset and strategies, it's possible to create a path to financial freedom.
• Raising Capital and Adding Value: While Mike has been successful in his investments, he's also on the verge of taking the next step—raising capital from investors. He discusses the importance of educating potential investors about real estate opportunities and being transparent about risks and returns. By doing so, he aims to help others achieve their financial goals through real estate.

Mike Holdwick | Real Estate Background

• Managing Partner at Pro Team Commercial
• Portfolio:
  • 5 commercial buildings (industrial, office, retail, medical) and 1 AirBNB totaling 40k sq ft
• Based in: Suburban Detroit, Michigan
• Say hi to him at: 
  • LinkedIn
  • Instagram
• Best Ever Book: 4-Hour Work Week by Tim Ferriss
• Greatest Lesson: Being asset agnostic and maximizing the potential of your portfolio is the best way to create long-term wealth.

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In this episode, our hosts, Ash Patel, Joe Cornwell, and Slocomb Reed engage in a lively roundtable discussion about the challenges and opportunities presented by the current real estate market, emphasizing the importance of stress-testing deals and being prepared for various scenarios. The conversation touches on topics such as underwriting, creative deal structures, and the shifting dynamics in the Midwest market. 

Key Takeaways:

• Stress-Test Your Deals: In the current market, it's crucial to stress-test your real estate deals. Factors like rising interest rates, potential vacancies, and unforeseen challenges should be considered in your financial projections.
• Creative Deal Structures: To succeed in the competitive market, consider creative deal structures. Whether it's negotiating seller financing, concessions, or exploring unique opportunities, having flexibility in your approach can make a significant difference.
• Long-Term Focus: Expect longer hold times for your investments. With uncertainty in the market, planning for a five-plus year window rather than short-term flipping is a prudent strategy to manage risk effectively.

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Bonus Operations is a series hosted by apartment owner/operator and Best Ever Show host, Slocomb Reed. In each five- to ten-minute episode, Slocomb provides his top takes for executing your business plan and maintaining cash flow.

In this episode, Slocomb Reed discusses the crucial signs that property owners and real estate investors should be aware of during the due diligence period when acquiring new apartment buildings. Reed shares 12 red flags that may indicate tenants are likely to vacate soon after the transition in ownership or management. These flags include late rent payments, a lack of concern for property maintenance, sparse furniture in units, intentional damage, subletting without permission, vacant apartments listed on the rent roll, unauthorized pets, and more.

Reed also delves into the significance of non-English speaking tenants within migrant communities and how their relationships with landlords can impact occupancy.

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In this episode, we dive deep into the world of multifamily real estate with David Lilley, the CEO of Reap Capital. David shares his journey from single-family rentals to becoming a successful multifamily investor, emphasizing the importance of creativity and tenacity. He provides valuable insights into his unique approach of vertically integrating property management and construction into his investments. Discover how David has consistently achieved impressive returns for his investors and what it takes to thrive in the multifamily market.

Key Takeaways:

• Creativity and Tenacity: David emphasizes the importance of thinking outside the box and approaching real estate investments with creativity and tenacity. These qualities have allowed him to succeed and stand out in a competitive market.
• Vertical Integration: By bringing property management and construction in-house, David has gained more control over his investments and improved communication within his team. This approach has proven to be a key factor in his success.
• Philanthropy and Giving Back: David discusses his commitment to philanthropy, particularly his support for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. He shares his plans for future nonprofit involvement, highlighting the importance of giving back to the community.

David Lilley | Real Estate Background

• CEO, Reap Capital
• Portfolio:
  • Multiple properties in Texas
• Based in: Dallas, Tx
• Say hi to him at: 
  • ReapCap.com
• Best Ever Book: The Hands Off Investor by Brian Burke
• Greatest Lesson: Your network is your net worth.

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In this episode, we delve into the world of cross-border real estate investment with Thomas Lorini, CEO of VentureCo Capital. Thomas shares his experiences and strategies for investing in commercial real estate across the United States and Canada. From diversifying portfolios to vetting partners, his insights are valuable for both seasoned investors and newcomers looking to explore opportunities beyond their borders.

Key Takeaways:

• Diversification Across Markets: Thomas emphasizes the importance of diversifying investment portfolios across different markets. While many investors focus on hot markets like California, Thomas has found success in the often-overlooked Midwest, where cap rates are more favorable. He highlights how markets like Cleveland and Columbus are experiencing significant appreciation, offering unique opportunities for cash flow and growth.
• Partnering for Success: To mitigate risks and ensure success, Thomas stresses the significance of vetting operators and partners carefully. Whether it's partnering with experienced operators in specific markets or collaborating with developers, understanding the track record and capabilities of your partners is crucial. This due diligence helps protect both your and your investors' capital.
• Guidance for Canadian Investors: Thomas offers valuable advice for Canadian investors looking to venture into the U.S. real estate market. He recommends exploring two paths: slow and steady or strategic partnerships with experienced operators. Financing challenges for foreign investors often necessitate careful planning, and Thomas underscores the importance of understanding the differences in regulations, financing options, and tax considerations between the two countries.

Thomas Lorini | Real Estate Background

• CEO of VentureCo Capital and Real Estate Coach
• Portfolio:
  • 400+ multifamily units in a variety of markets across US and Canada
• Based in: Irvine, CA
• Say hi to him at: 
  • LinkedIn
  • Instagram
  • venturecocapital.com
  • Thomalorini.com
• Best Ever Book:  The Bible
• Greatest Lesson: Surround yourself with people that are better and more skilled than you.

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BV Captial

CRE Daily

Passive Investor Tips is a weekly series hosted by full-time passive investor and Best Ever Show host, Travis Watts. In each bite-sized episode, Travis breaks down passive investor topics, simplifying the philosophy and mindset while providing tactical, valuable information on how to be a passive investor.

In this episode, Travis dives into the different types of multifamily business plans, sharing the risks and needs of each, including core asset, core plus, value add, opportunistic, and ground up construction.

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BV Captial

CRE Daily

This episode is brought to you by Presario Ventures, a private equity real estate firm based in the booming Austin, Texas, market. To learn how to invest in the future of Texas with Presario Ventures, visit info.presarioventures.com/bestever.

In this episode, we sit down with Ben Bauer, a seasoned real estate investor and attorney, to explore the intricacies of commercial real estate investing. With a wealth of experience in both residential and commercial properties, Ben shares valuable insights on deal structures, seller financing, and the impact of early exposure to real estate. 

Key Takeaways:

• Deal Structuring Wisdom: Ben highlights the significance of sound deal structures, particularly in complex commercial real estate transactions. He emphasizes the importance of seeking legal counsel and networking within local real estate investor groups to make informed decisions.
• Seller Financing Strategies: When it comes to seller financing, Ben stresses the importance of detailed contracts. He recommends specifying all terms and attaching draft notes and mortgages as exhibits to the purchase contract. This transparency ensures all parties are on the same page, reducing potential conflicts down the line.
• Early Exposure to Real Estate: Reflecting on his own upbringing around real estate, Ben underscores the value of exposing young minds to entrepreneurial thinking. Encouraging questions and fostering an environment that promotes independent thinking can lay the foundation for a future in real estate or any entrepreneurial venture.

Ben Bauer | Real Estate Background

• Real estate investment lawyer of The Bauer Firm, LLC
• Portfolio:
  • 8 units from single family rentals and small multifamily properties
• Based in: Cincinnati, Ohio
• Say hi to him at: 
  • thebauerfirm.com
• Best Ever Book: Snow Crash by Neal Stephenson
• Greatest Lesson: Success is all about mindset, courage, and confidence.

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Presario Ventures

Rentec Direct