
Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing
307 episodes — Page 5 of 7

MB324: How to Grow & Lead a Real Estate Investing Team – With Cameron Herold
Growing a successful real estate business means growing a solid team. But many entrepreneur-investors struggle with hiring and don’t spend enough time developing key leadership skills. So, what makes for a successful leader in the multifamily business? How do you decide what to delegate, communicate the vision for your business and help the people on your team excel? Known as the CEO Whisperer, Cameron Herold is Founder of the COO Alliance and Second in Command Podcast, a coaching practice and training platform that helps C-suite leaders double their revenue in three years or less. Cameron is well-known for engineering 1-800-GOT-JUNK?’s growth from $2M to $106M in revenue in just six years as COO. He is also the bestselling author of Vivid Vision: A Remarkable Tool for Aligning Your Business Around a Shared Vision of the Future. On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Cameron joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to explain what makes a successful leader, describing how a vivid vision helps leaders focus on the right opportunities and communicate with their team. Cameron shares the activity inventory he uses to help leaders learn to delegate, challenging us to offload anything that’s outside our genius and free up our time for revenue-generating activities. Listen in for Cameron’s insight on creating personal development plans for the individuals on your investing team and learn his FOCUS x FAITH x EFFORT formula for success! For full episode show notes visit: http://www.themichaelblank.com/session324/

MB323: The Shortcut to Success in Real Estate – With Sam Kwak
Are you struggling to do your first real estate deal? Is there an aspect of the multifamily business that’s taking a long time to master on your own? What if you stopped asking HOW and started asking WHO? Who is already good at this? And can they teach me? Sam Kwak is one half of the real estate duo and YouTube sensation known as The Kwak Brothers. Based in Chicago, Sam and his brother Daniel hold a portfolio worth just over $4.5M. Beyond investing in multifamily, Sam leverages his background in marketing and technology to help property managers automate their business. On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Sam joins host Garrett Lynch to explain how volunteering to work for free with a local investor served as a shortcut to his success. Sam describes how he leverages an online platform to raise money for real estate deals, discussing why the focus of his content has changed and how hiring a high-level consultant grew his YouTube channel from 108K to 260K subscribers in just four months. Listen in for Sam’s insight on navigating challenges in a business partnership and learn how to accelerate your real estate career by investing in a mentor or coach—and then applying that knowledge to get further, faster! For full episode show notes visit: http://www.themichaelblank.com/session323/

MB322: Developing a Next-Level Due Diligence Checklist – With Jake Harris
When was the last time you reviewed your due diligence process? Too many real estate investors are so eager to do a deal that they cut corners on due diligence and hope for the best. But a robust due diligence checklist is essential to your success. Jake Harris uses his superpower of methodically sorting through data to make real-world decisions on real estate, and his private equity firm has acquired more than $200M in assets in the last five years alone. Jake is extremely detail-oriented in conducting due diligence, and he shares that expertise in his new book, Catching Knives: A Guide to Investing in Distressed Commercial Real Estate. On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Jake joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to discuss how he hit rock bottom during the recession and describe his transition from single family flips to commercial real estate. Jake explores how to use deep knowledge of a given real estate market to your advantage and explains how due diligence can uncover significant downside risk in a commercial deal. Listen in for Jake’s no-stone-unturned approach to due diligence and learn how to decide when a deal is worth the risk—and when to walk away. For full episode show notes visit: http://www.themichaelblank.com/session322/

MB321: Marketing to Scale Your Syndication Business – With Brian Wagers
Most new multifamily investors focus on deal flow. We know that capital flow is important, but we figure we can rely on friends and family to fund our first few deals. But eventually, the money runs out. So, if you want to scale a real estate business, you’ve got to grow your sphere of potential investors. And the easiest way to do that is through an online thought leadership platform. Brian Wagers raised capital for his first 361 units simply by talking to people one-on-one. And then he realized that to achieve scale, he needed to pay more attention to marketing. Brian is Founder of Wagers Capital, a real estate investing firm with $4.1M in multifamily assets. To date, Brian has built a portfolio of 447 units in his home state of Arkansas and another 125 in Texas. On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Brian joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to share the steps he took to get into multifamily and explain how live events helped him see the possibilities of growing a multimillion-dollar portfolio. Brian walks us through the steps he took to build an online thought leadership platform, describing how his social media presence and podcast appearances attract new investors to Wagers Capital. Listen in to understand how Brian leveraged my Platform Builders Workshop to build out his marketing systems and learn how to scale YOUR syndication business by focusing on deal flow and capital flow at the same time! For full episode show notes visit: http://www.themichaelblank.com/session321/

MB320: How to Use Social Media to Crush It in Real Estate – With Lili Thompson
Why would a real estate investor want to share content on social media? Yes, we can build relationships with other investors and raise capital without Instagram or YouTube. But social platforms help us maintain those real-life connections and make tens of thousands of others! So, how can we use social media to crush it in real estate? Lili Thompson was playing with the Harlem Globetrotters when COVID hit. Stuck at home with nothing to do, Lili learned about wholesaling and decided to try it—and document the process on social media. Today, Lili is one of the rising stars in the real estate space, and she has 148K subscribers on YouTube. On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Lili joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to discuss how she benefits from sharing her real estate journey on YouTube, describing the connections she’s made with other beginners and experienced investors alike. Lili offers insight into how she built an audience on social media and explains why it’s important to produce content consistently. Listen in to understand why Lili is shifting into the multifamily space (using my Syndicated Deal Analyzer) and take the first steps to creating a thought leadership platform of your own, no matter where you are in your real estate journey! For full episode show notes visit: http://www.themichaelblank.com/session320/

MB319: An Introvert’s Guide to Raising Capital – With Jonathan Wei
What’s stopping you from doing your first multifamily deal? Whatever your perceived weakness may be, you can overcome it and achieve the same kind of success in commercial real estate that you’ve had in other areas of your life. English is Jonathan Wei’s second language and he’s a quiet, introverted guy. And yet, he’s raised millions of dollars for real estate syndication deals. What’s his secret? Jonathan serves as Cofounder and CEO of Greystone Capital Group, a commercial real estate firm that focuses on multifamily and self-storage assets. He left a successful career as a CPA to become a full-time investor, quitting his job in February 2022. On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Jonathan joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to share his fears around raising capital, explaining how he got comfortable talking to brokers and investors with the help of a mentor. Jonathan discusses how the connections he made at Deal Maker Live led to JV partnerships that helped him build a portfolio of 500 multifamily units and another 500 in self-storage. Listen in for Jonathan’s insight on overcoming limiting beliefs by leveraging prior personal and professional successes—and applying the same work ethic to real estate! For full episode show notes visit: http://www.themichaelblank.com/session319/

MB318: High-Stakes Problem-Solving as a Class D Multifamily Operator
Before you invest with a multifamily operator, it’s important to understand their track record. To know that they’ve got experience overcoming obstacles and making a deal work. Prior to joining our team at Nighthawk Equity, podcast cohost Garrett Lynch owned and operated a class D real estate portfolio on the south side of Chicago. And learned how to solve problems on a life-or-death level in the process. On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Garrett is flying solo, discussing how he acquired 300 properties in six months and describing some of the challenges he faced managing assets in crime-ridden neighborhoods. Garrett shares his experience owning and operating a 381-unit, class D apartment building in Memphis, walking us through the steps he took to end gang violence onsite and increase occupancy to 90%. Listen in for Garrett’s insight around the pros and cons of investing in class D properties and find out what he learned about problem-solving in a high-stakes situation that he brings to the team at Nighthawk! For full episode show notes visit: http://www.themichaelblank.com/session318/

MB317: Building Wealth in Minority Communities – With Duamel Vellon
A 2017 Forbes headline reads, ‘Median Wealth of Black and Latino Families Could Hit Zero by the Middle of the Century.’ That hit home for Puerto Rican-born Duamel Vellon. And he’s made it his mission to raise awareness in his community, making multifamily investors out of his friends and peers. Duamel Vellon is Cofounder of Ten15 Capital, a multifamily investment firm with assets in Florida, Georgia and the Carolinas. A former engineer in the theme park industry, Duamel quit his job in December of 2021 to be a full-time investor, and he currently manages a 203-unit portfolio. On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Duamel joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to share the ‘chess versus checkers’ mindset that helped him transition from flipping to multifamily. Duamel describes his grassroots approach to raising capital, discussing how he grows his network and educates potential investors before he has a live deal. Listen in for insight on Duamel’s mission to serve the Black and Latino communities and learn his uncommon strategy for ensuring regular deal flow. For full episode show notes visit: http://www.themichaelblank.com/session317/

MB316: Financing Multifamily Through a Credit Union – With Mark Ritter
If you finance a multifamily syndication through Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac, you’re securing non-recourse debt with a fixed interest rate. But if you want to exit anytime sooner than the loan expiration date, you're going to pay a BIG penalty on the back end. So, how might we leverage credit unions to avoid these big-ticket prepayment penalties? Are there other benefits to financing real estate deals through a credit union? What’s the downside? Mark Ritter is CEO of Member Business Financial Services or MBFS, a business lending credit service organization owned by credit unions for credit unions and their members. An expert in credit unions and business lending, Mark is dedicated to helping commercial real estate investors secure the financing they need. On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Mark joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to explore the pros and cons of financing multifamily through a credit union versus traditional loans. Mark describes the credit union philosophy of people helping people, discussing how real estate investors benefit from having a personal relationship with our lender. Listen in for Mark’s advice on how to approach a credit union for a loan and learn about the flexible terms and low cost of capital available if you finance your next deal through an organization like MBFS! For full episode show notes visit: http://www.themichaelblank.com/session316/

MB315: The Transition from Pro Athlete to Multifamily Investor – With Dan Brisse
A career as a professional athlete is exciting, and if you’re among the best, you can make a lot of money in a short amount of time. But what do you do when your career is over? Dan Brisse was a professional snowboarder for over a decade, participating in the X Games four times and winning gold twice. But he noticed that older pros were suffering as their careers wound down, struggling financially and in their personal lives. And that inspired Dan to make his money work for him with multifamily real estate. Today, Dan is the cofounder of Granite Towers Equity Group, cohost of the Keeping It Real Estate Podcast and coauthor of 4 Steps to Successful Passive Investing. He and his partner, Mike, are GPs in 1,414 units worth $74M across five states, and he owns another 589 units as a passive investor. On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Dan joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to discuss his transition from snowboarding to real estate and describe the steps he took to become a multifamily investor. Dan explains how his investing strategy has evolved over time, encouraging us to seek out a high-level mentor early on and avoid shiny object syndrome. Listen in for insight around the values alignment that makes Dan and Mike’s partnership work and learn how to make the leap from YOUR current career to full-time real estate investing. For full episode show notes visit: http://www.themichaelblank.com/session315/

MB314: Live Your Purpose Through Real Estate Investing – With Lee Prosenjak
Why do you do what you do? Articulating the WHY behind your work gives it meaning. And makes for a richer, more fulfilling life. But how do you uncover your purpose and then apply it each day? Lee Prosenjak is a serial entrepreneur and executive coach at LynchPyn. He's worked with thousands of entrepreneurs in 30-plus countries, cultivating cohesive work groups and facilitating conversations that truly matter. An artist at heart, Lee is also the Cofounder of Cherry Creek Dance, former Igniter at Simon Sinek Consulting and current real estate investor on a mission to help others discover their own inspiration, love and greatness. On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Lee joins host Garrett Lynch to discuss his WHY and describe how clarity of purpose leads to better decision-making. Lee explores the relationship between purpose and identity, sharing the experience that inspired him to play BIGGER and expand his influence beyond Cherry Creek Dance. Listen in for Lee’s insight around being open to new opportunities and find out how he is living his purpose as the owner of a boutique hotel in the Bahamas! For full episode show notes visit: http://www.themichaelblank.com/session314/

MB313: Earn BIG Returns with a Portfolio of Commercial Assets – With Steffany Boldrini
Imagine earning cash-on-cash returns as high as 50%! Inspired by sophisticated real estate investors in her network, Steffany Boldrini moved her money out of tech startups and into commercial properties three years ago. And while she’s faced a lot of challenges along the way, Steffany reached financial freedom in less than two years. So, what is Steffany’s approach to investing in real estate? And what does she do to earn such big-time returns? Steffany moved from Brazil to Silicon Valley 20 years ago and enjoyed a successful career in tech sales before shifting her focus to commercial real estate. As Principal at Monte Carlo Real Estate Investments, she has built a portfolio across three asset classes, achieving 36% cash-on-cash returns. Steffany is also the host of Commercial Real Estate Investing from A-Z, a podcast about investing in retail, office, industrial and self-storage properties. On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Steffany joins host Garrett Lynch to discuss her transition from angel investing to real estate, describing why she likes the risk profile of commercial properties over tech startups. Steffany shares her approach to building a commercial real estate portfolio, explaining the pros and cons of investing in car washes, self-storage and short-term rentals. Listen in to understand how Steffany leverages technology in her real estate business and get ideas for adding value to force appreciation—in any commercial asset class. For full episode show notes visit: http://www.themichaelblank.com/session313/

MB312: Become ‘Successfully Unemployed’ with Real Estate – With Dustin Heiner
When you work a traditional job, your ability to feed your family can be taken away from you at any moment. And your worth is determined by your employer. But what if YOU can determine your own worth? What if you can earn enough passive income from real estate to walk away from your J-O-B and be your own boss? Dustin Heiner is the creator of Master Passive Income, a platform and podcast where he shares insights on investing in real estate rental properties. Getting laid off from his 9-to-5 inspired Dustin to pursue investing, and by 2016, Dustin had built a portfolio of 30 properties and quit his job in IT, becoming what he calls 'successfully unemployed.' On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Dustin joins Garrett Lynch and me to discuss what he loves about passive income and share some of the mistakes he made with his first few investments. Dustin explains why it's important to build your business first, challenging you to look for markets with good inventory and put a team in place BEFORE you buy properties. Listen in for Dustin's insight on leveraging real estate to leave a legacy and find out how a mentor can support YOU in becoming successfully unemployed—like Dustin! For full episode show notes visit: http://www.themichaelblank.com/session312/

MB311: Wealth Creation with Crypto & Real Estate – With Matthew Diemer
Are you confused by cryptocurrency, the blockchain or NFTs? As real estate investors, we’re all about wealth creation and owning physical assets as a hedge against inflation. But what about digital assets? Is it worth investing in cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin? What is blockchain technology all about? And how can it change the world for the better? Matthew Diemer is a small business entrepreneur and host of the Decrypt Daily Podcast. Prior to Decrypt Daily, he founded Crypto 101 and held the titles of COO and GM in the global hospitality industry. Matthew is also a Democrat running for Congress in Northeast Ohio dedicated to supporting entrepreneurship, promoting tech innovation and reviving manufacturing in the US. On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Matthew joins host Garrett Lynch and me to discuss the benefits of blockchain technology, describing what makes crypto a good investment vehicle and why Bitcoin is a strong hedge against inflation. Matthew explains how crypto allows us to control our own wealth and what we can do to keep our digital currency outside government control. Listen in for Matthew’s insight into buying digital real estate and learn how the blockchain can be used to create wealth by tokenizing properties. For full episode show notes visit: http://www.themichaelblank.com/session311/

MB310: Understanding the Entrepreneur’s Paradox — With Curtis Morley
Most entrepreneurs believe that we are the secret sauce in our business. We think that no one else can bake the cupcakes or design the websites or analyze the real estate deals quite the way we do. But if you’re busy building the product, who’s building the business? This is what Curtis Morley calls the entrepreneur’s paradox: In order to scale, you've got to shift your passion from working IN the business to working ON the business. Curtis is the five-time entrepreneur, mentor and thought leader behind The Entrepreneur’s Paradox, a platform dedicated to helping startup companies achieve next-level growth. Curtis has been named Entrepreneur of the Year and made the Inc. 5000 list six times. He is also the bestselling author of The Entrepreneur’s Paradox: How to Overcome the 16 Pitfalls Along the Startup Journey. On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Curtis joins host Garrett Lynch to explain the entrepreneur’s paradox, challenging us to shift from the role of product manager to business leader and achieve the next level of growth. Curtis shares his concept of counterfeit emotions, describing how to turn fear into power with a simple shift from WHAT IF to WHAT IS thinking. Listen in for Curtis’ four-step success formula for entrepreneurs and learn how to make the mindset shift you need to scale YOUR real estate syndication business. Key Takeaways How Curtis defines the entrepreneur’s paradox What got you into business prevents you from succeeding ‘If you’re building the product, who’s building the business?’ The first steps to becoming a business leader Make decision to replace yourself as product manager Identify and document your processes, teach to others Curtis’ 3 summits you can climb as an entrepreneur Lifestyle business Buy or be bought IPO Curtis’ 4-step success formula for entrepreneurs How much By when For what And why Curtis’ advice for deciding what’s next after an exit Stay committed to your WHY Must have purpose, make contribution Curtis’ concept of counterfeit emotions Every authentic emotion has counterfeit (e.g.: faith vs. fear) Authentic emotions connect, while counterfeit disconnect How to transform your FEAR into POWER Change WHAT IF into WHAT IS Brings you back to present and creates energy How Curtis uncovered the idea of counterfeit emotions Pain = gift to help us grow, suffering steeped in blame/shame Surrender to pain and turn it into something positive Connect with Curtis Morley The Entrepreneur’s Paradox Resources Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club Access Michael’s Free Resources in the Freedom Vault Review the Podcast on iTunes Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank The Entrepreneur’s Paradox: How to Overcome the 16 Pitfalls Along the Startup Journey (Keys to Success for a Startup Company) by Curtis Morley Summit on the Summit Simon Sinek Richard Bass Michael on Facebook Michael on Instagram Michael on YouTube Michael on TikTok Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group Podcast Show Notes

MB309: How to LAUNCH a Syndication Business – With Jonathan & Paula Nichols
In aerospace engineering, ‘escape velocity’ is the amount of power a rocket needs to break free of the Earth’s gravitational field. And if you ask Jonathan and Paula Nichols, launching a real estate syndication business is no different. It takes a tremendous amount of effort up front to do your first deal. You have to commit to the outcome and do whatever it takes to persevere through setbacks and disappointment. But once you’ve picked up momentum and closed on your first apartment building, the next deals follow in quick, almost automatic succession. Jonathan and Paula are the cofounders of Apogee Capital, a multifamily firm dedicated to helping investors reach their financial potential. The Nichols closed on three deals in the last year, raising $2.7M as they built a portfolio of 200 units, and Jonathan quit his job as an aerospace engineer six weeks ago to pursue real estate full time. On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Jonathan and Paula join cohost Garrett Lynch and me to discuss the sacrifices they made to make time for real estate while they both worked full-time corporate jobs. Jonathan and Paula walk us through the steps they took to get started in multifamily syndication, describing how they got on the same page as a couple and started networking with potential partners. Listen in for insight on reframing a lost deal as a learning opportunity and learn how to stay the course in tough times and keep taking action—until YOUR investing business takes off! Key Takeaways How Jonathan and Paula got into real estate Rich Dad... inspired to lease first home, buy fourplex Realized multifamily was only way to scale How real estate evolved into a business for the Nichols Started as way to diversify investments Saw unlimited possibilities once they gained traction How Jonathan and Paula got on the same page Both wanted to build legacy Saw real estate as potential family business The steps Jonathan and Paula took to get started investing Dreaming about financial freedom Getting educated (mentorship program) Networking to shift mindset Taking consistent action to build confidence How Jonathan and Paula made time for real estate Say no to fun activities on nights and weekends Make sacrifices to reach ‘escape velocity’ Jonathan and Paula’s first multifamily deal Co-GPs on 100-unit deal in Tulsa, Oklahoma Brought in as boots on ground in market How Jonathan and Paula met their partners Develop relationship through networking events Brought them deal that didn’t work out Jonathan and Paula’s big setback 5 months ago Actual financial records didn’t match originals Discouraging but consider it learning opportunity How Jonathan and Paula raised $700K for their first deal Saw value in being flexible enough to learn new skills Leveraged relationships from W-2 jobs, real estate What’s ahead for Jonathan and Paula in the next 2 years Actively looking for new deals, talking to investors Executing on business plan of existing deals Jonathan and Paula’s plan to scale Network with potential partners Outsource and automate parts of business Increase capacity to do larger deals Jonathan and Paula’s advice for aspiring investors Take consistent action on daily basis Don’t get discouraged in tough times Dream BIG and don’t limit yourself Connect with Jonathan & Paula Nichols Apogee Capital Jonathan on LinkedIn Resources Get Tickets for Deal Maker Live Buy Michael’s Syndicated Deal Analyzer Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club Access Michael’s Free Resources in the Freedom Vault Review the Podcast on iTunes Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank National Real Estate Investors Association Rich Dad Poor Dad: What the Rich Teach Their Kids About Money That the Poor and Middle Class Do Not! by Robert T. Kiyosaki Suzy Sevier & Michael Barnhart on Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing EP260 Dream Big: Know What You Want, Why You Want It, and What You’re Going to Do About It by Bob Goff Michael on Facebook Michael on Instagram Michael on YouTube Michael on TikTok Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group Podcast Show Notes

MB308: To Scale Fast in Multifamily, Partner Up – With Patrick Grimes
Multifamily real estate is a big game. And if you want to scale quickly, you can’t do it alone. That’s how Patrick Grimes went from 0 to 1,200-plus units in under two years. He partnered with a senior operator to go further faster, leveraging his partner’s expertise to build a $250M portfolio in a very short time. But how did he get an experienced investor to invite him into a deal? Patrick is the Founder and CEO of Invest on Main Street and contributor to the #1 Amazon bestseller Persistence, Pivots and Game Changers: Turning Challenges Into Opportunities. Patrick also runs Protomation Systems, a consulting business that contracts with machine design firms to conceptualize, design and build custom manufacturing automation and robotic systems. On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Patrick joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to explain how he brought value to an experienced operator to get into his first multifamily deal. Patrick shares his experience with the Law of the First Deal, describing how his role on the team shifted as his portfolio grew. Listen in for Patrick’s insight on mitigating the risks of multifamily investing and find out why partnering up is the best way to scale your business and get on the fast track to financial freedom! Key Takeaways How Patrick got into real estate investing First employer suggested keeping money in real estate Looking for investment vehicle other than stock market How Patrick’s investing strategy changed after 2008 Focus shifted to legacy and improving quality of life Scale with multifamily, partner to accelerate growth How Patrick got his wife involved in real estate investing Invited to do Michael’s Ultimate Guide... course Now she creates passive investor educational content The steps Patrick took to get his first multifamily deal Underwrite and bring live deals to senior operator Network and build relationships with brokers How Patrick justifies the risk associated with multifamily Right team in place and experienced partners Low-leveraged debt in less volatile markets Patrick’s pivot away from deal finder into other roles Drawn into existing deal by senior operator Add value through due diligence, operations, etc. Patrick’s experience with the Law of the First Deal Started raising capital through engineering network 2nd and 3rd deals in quick succession (KP on $200M) Why Patrick chose the 506(c) option Used to accredited investors, $100K minimums Allows him to market deals online The biggest challenge Patrick is facing as he scales Get name out there as real estate investor Demo thought leadership on podcasts and in writing Patrick’s advice for aspiring multifamily investors Partner up to accelerate your growth Find where your skills fit and bring value Connect with Patrick Grimes Invest on Main Street Patrick on Forbes Schedule a Call with Patrick Resources Get Tickets for Deal Maker Live Buy Michael’s Ultimate Guide to Apartment Building Investing Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club Access Michael’s Free Resources in the Freedom Vault Review the Podcast on iTunes Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank Persistence, Pivots and Game Changers: Turning Challenges into Opportunities by Patrick Grimes et al. Michael on Facebook Michael on Instagram Michael on YouTube Michael on TikTok Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group Podcast Show Notes

MB307: Save Tens of Thousands on Your Taxes – With Heidi Henderson
Real estate has always had tax advantages, but in recent years, the deal got even sweeter for multifamily investors. So, how do we write off depreciation? What is a cost segregation study and how can it save us even more? Heidi Henderson serves as Executive Vice President at Engineered Tax Services, the nation’s leading tax credit and incentives firm. As an experienced tax consultant and real estate investor herself, Heidi specializes in the application of tax efficiencies to multifamily investments. On this episode of the podcast, Heidi joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to share the unique tax advantages of real estate and explain why the US government incentivizes multifamily investors. Heidi describes how to take advantage of BONUS depreciation (provided for by the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act) by conducting a detailed cost segregation analysis. Listen in for Heidi’s insight on determining the ROI of a cost seg study and find out how YOU can save tens of thousands of dollars with the magic of accelerated depreciation! Key Takeaways The unique tax advantages of real estate Depreciate value of real estate over 27½ years Bonus depreciation through ‘cost seg’ analysis Why the government incentivizes real estate investors Consumerism drives economy Encourages improvements to infrastructure What depreciation is and how it works Deducting cost of asset over its ‘useful life’ Reduces taxable income for investor Why you should claim bonus depreciation right away Must be done year property is purchased Inventory breakdown helps plan renovations How to take advantage of accelerated depreciation Conduct cost segregation study Itemize deductions (e.g.: carpet, windows, etc.) What to look for in a company that does cost seg Can vary from 2 to 150 pages Ask for copy of redacted study to compare How to determine your ROI on a cost seg analysis Based on taxable income, percentage of tax paid Subtract cost of analysis The limitations on taxable income for passive investors Depreciation offsets real estate income only Does not offset income from W-2 job Why we should cash in on bonus depreciation now TCJA passed 100% bonus depreciation Drops to 80% in 2023, 60% in 2024 Connect with Heidi Henderson Engineered Tax Services Heidi on LinkedIn Email [email protected] Call (801) 564-4464 Resources Get Tickets for Deal Maker Live Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program Download Michael’s Free Report—What's the Best Investment: The Stock Market or Real Estate? Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club Access Michael’s Free Resources in the Freedom Vault Review the Podcast on iTunes Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act Heidi Henderson on Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing EP022 Michael on Facebook Michael on Instagram Michael on YouTube Michael on TikTok Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group Podcast Show Notes

MB306: To Scale Your Business, Put Investors First – With Veena Jetti
When you’re doing your first multifamily deal, scaling the business is the last thing on your mind. But if you don’t think about scale early on and come up with a plan, you’ll be fighting fires as you grow. So, how do you create a vision for what your syndication business will look like in the future and then proactively put systems in place that allow you to scale up with ease? Veena Jetti is the Founding Partner of Vive Funds, a unique multifamily firm that specializes in curating conservative opportunities for real estate investors. Veena has built a portfolio of 3,000-plus units worth $600M, and she shares her expertise as a frequent speaker, panelist and guest on various media outlets. On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Veena joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to explain how raising capital at a high level allows her to scale and describe how every decision is made with the investor in mind. Veena shares her success with investor retention and referrals, discussing why she offers investors the option to put their money in a fund or invest in direct offerings. Listen in for insight on how Veena uses her time as partner at a big-time investment firm and get her advice on creating workflows that make it easy to scale your multifamily syndication business! Key Takeaways What inspired Veena’s interest in scaling a real estate business Mom was successful investor, taught solid work ethic Enjoys bigger safety net than immigrant parents How Veena and her sister/business partner use their time Strategy re: acquisitions, capital and legal structure Continue to take investor-facing calls Why Veena’s had success raising capital at a high level All decisions made with investor in mind High investor retention rate and referrals Why Veena offers investors a fund OR direct offering option Fund satisfies demand for diversification, set + forget Surprised to find that some investors want to do both How Veena raises $30M in 42 days Raise money when don’t have deal on table $100K minimum for individual deals Veena’s experience with institutional investors Build relationships with family funds Have Plan B in case drop out last minute What Veena is doing to enhance the way she raises capital Rebrand with investor in mind Add technology to make process smoother Veena’s biggest challenges right now Letting go of taking investor calls Implementing new tech at pace she wants Veena’s advice to her younger self Invest in systems and processes out of gate Consider scale from first deal How Veena thinks about deal flow Wants to do more but very competitive right now Prefers 1 or 2 great deals over 6 okay deals How Veena’s definition of success has changed over time Used to be based on net worth and income Now focused on setting example for kids Connect with Veena Jetti Vive Funds Vive Funds on Facebook Vive Funds on Instagram Veena on Twitter Veena on TikTok Resources Get Tickets for Deal Maker Live Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program Access Michael’s Free Resources in the Freedom Vault Review the Podcast on iTunes Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank The Art of the Deal by Donald J. Trump Grant Cardone Brian Burke PowerForms Michael on Facebook Michael on Instagram Michael on YouTube Michael on TikTok Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group Podcast Show Notes

MB305: The Life and Times of an 18-Year-Old Syndicator – With Alex Mandaro
At the age of 18, Alex Mandaro is the youngest mentoring student we’ve ever had at the Michael Blank organization. So, we’re doing a grand experiment and asking Alex to document his journey! In a reality-style series broadcast through our social media channels, Alex will share a behind-the-scenes look at the life and times of a new syndicator. On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Alex joins me to explain what inspired his interest in multifamily and why he believes he’ll be successful. He discusses why he used his college money to invest in mentoring, describing how he is getting the most out of our program and learning from the mistakes of others. Listen in for insight on following Alex’s journey with us to find out if you really can be a successful syndicator without experience or cash of your own! Key Takeaways What inspired Alex’s interest in real estate Always wanted to have business, likes people Read Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing What makes Alex believe he can be successful Less baggage at age 18 Raised to believe he can do anything he wants Why Alex chose real estate over college Not sure what major he wanted to pursue Can still meet new people and live on his own How Alex’s friends and family reacted to his decision Other friends not going to college Parents very supportive The first steps Alex is taking to pursue multifamily Devote time to learning and networking Look for partner to ‘get bigger deal done faster’ Why Alex invested in our mentoring program Wants someone to push him Make fewer mistakes Alex’s personal WHY statement Lead others to freedom Positively impact others How Alex is getting the most out of mentorship Plan next steps each week Go into conversations with investors prepared How Alex thinks about getting through bad days Purpose keeps pushing forward Consistency is what matters Why Alex agreed to document his journey with us Help teach and inspire others Holds him accountable Alex’s concerns with sharing his journey on social Pressure to do deal in certain time frame Doesn’t want to let people down Connect with Alex Mandaro Follow Alex’s Journey on Instagram Follow Alex’s Journey on TikTok Follow Alex’s Journey on YouTube Resources Access Michael’s Free Resources in the Freedom Vault Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program Review the Podcast on iTunes Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert T. Kiyosaki Grant Cardone on Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing EP188 The Miracle Equation by Hal Elrod Michael on Facebook Michael on Instagram Michael on YouTube Michael on TikTok Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group Podcast Show Notes

MB304: Install Renewable Energy, Increase Your Profits – With John Matheson
Using renewable energy to power a multifamily property is not just for environmentalists anymore. As the political environment shifts, going green doesn’t just make the world a better place. It’s also highly profitable. John Matheson is Managing Member and Sustainable Building Consultant at J. Healy Development, where he has developed an expertise in helping multifamily operators increase profits through renewable energy and ecofriendly building methods. He also serves as Cofounder and CEO of Leverage Finance Software, a platform that supports property investors in making smarter and more informed lender financing decisions. On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, John joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to explain how he adds value to a property with rooftop or on-the-ground solar power. He describes the benefits of partnering with a solar developer and discusses the financial incentives associated with installing renewable energy across a multifamily portfolio. Listen in for insight on planning for panel maintenance and learn how to add a revenue stream to your multifamily business in 6 to 18 months with solar energy! Key Takeaways How John creates inventory as a permitting specialist Build relationships in individual municipalities Build to rent or flip permits to big developers How John adds value to a property with solar power Lease rooftop or land to solar developer Supply power to building, sell residual to grid How renewable energy credits or RECs work Tenants pay less per kilowatt hour for energy State pays multifamily operator as incentive The benefits of partnering with a solar developer Federal tax credit of 26% to 30% for installation Take advantage of renewable energy lenders What factors to consider as you plan to install solar Build in cost of panel maintenance Must remove panels to renovate roof The timeline for installing rooftop or ground solar Smaller system, faster it goes 6 to 18 months to cashflow How renewable energy attracts tenants Mention sustainability in marketing Certain kind of tenant will pay more Connect with John Matheson Healy Development Leverage Finance Software Resources Access Michael’s Free Resources in the Freedom Vault Be a Part of Michael’s Deal Maker’s Mastermind Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club Download Michael’s Free Report—What’s the Best Investment: The Stock Market or Real Estate? Review the Podcast on iTunes Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank Federal Solar Tax Credit Build Back Better eConserve Multifamily Water Conservation Solutions Michael on Facebook Michael on Instagram Michael on YouTube Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group Podcast Show Notes

MB303: How to Balance Multifamily with a Demanding W-2 – With Andrew Schutsky
Can you be successful in real estate investing and successful at a demanding job at the same time? Andrew Schutsky serves as the CIO of a $700M medical technology company. He also happens to be the founder of multifamily syndication firm Redline Equity and host of The Crushing Cashflow Podcast. Andrew has 14 years of real estate rental experience but didn’t enter the multifamily space until last year. Since then, he has built a portfolio of 1100 units! On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Andrew joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to explain how he built a real estate business while working an executive level W-2 job. He describes how he networked into his first deal and offers advice on finding a partner who complements your strengths. Listen in for insight on the strategy of time budgeting and find out how Andrew is making time for his family, his full-time job and financial freedom. Key Takeaways What inspired Andrew’s interest in real estate Want to make best use of money Realized could replace income later Andrew’s shift to multifamily Came across blog of local syndicator Networked into first deal Andrew’s advice on finding a partner Share criteria, e.g.: 50- to 125-unit deals Align objectives and values How Andrew balances real estate with his W-2 Devote 15 to 20 hours/week Work in 5 to 7AM window Andrew’s strategy of time budgeting Decide how to spend time, audit often Break down to align with goals How Andrew makes time for his family Sacred window from 7 to 9PM Wife holds accountable if off track Andrew’s morning routine Read 20 pages or listen to podcast Meditation or 15-minute workout How Andrew stays on track to reach his goals Join/create accountability groups Post goals and track progress How Andrew thinks about his W-2 job Can't control what will happen Option to exit in 2 years What financial freedom means to Andrew Cover expenses with passive income Spend 40 on family and passions Andrew’s advice to aspiring investors Find fun in chaos Be ruthless in how invest time Focus on your strengths Connect with Andrew Schutsky Redline Equity Redline Equity on LinkedIn Redline Equity on Facebook The Crushing Cashflow Podcast Crushing Cashflow on LinkedIn Crushing Cashflow on Facebook Andrew on LinkedIn Email [email protected] Resources Access Michael’s Free Resources in the Freedom Vault Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club Review the Podcast on iTunes [Text CONTEST to 66866] Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank The 80/20 Rule on Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing EP289 BiggerPockets Michael on Facebook Michael on Instagram Michael on YouTube Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group Podcast Show Notes

MB302: To Scale Fast, Think BIG from the Beginning – With Chris Roberts
It’s a common misconception in multifamily investing that you have to start small. But Chris Roberts looked beyond his first deal to envision a multimillion-dollar real estate business. He accelerated his success by thinking BIG from the beginning, acquiring nearly 1,000 units worth $69M in just three years. So, what’s the secret to scaling fast the way Chris did? Chris is the Founder and CEO of Sterling Rhino Capital, where he specializes in commercial debt, managing financials and investor relations. A full-time entrepreneur and investor since 2007, Chris started his real estate career by renovating, flipping and renting dozens of single-family properties. But after attending one of our events, Chris shifted his focus to helping people create cashflow by investing in larger apartment buildings of 100 units or more. On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Chris joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to share the process he used to scale quickly and achieve financial freedom. He explains why finding the right partner was key in growing Sterling Rhino and describes his team's make-it-personal approach to finding deals and raising money. Listen in for Chris’ insight on investing in mentorship and find out what it takes to build a BIG real estate investing business—in very little time. Key Takeaways What inspired Chris to invest in multifamily real estate Motivated by money at first Passive cashflow = freedom The mindset shift that propelled Chris into action Realized one person’s decision could change future Would much rather control own destiny The process Chris used to scale quickly Take massive action Invest in tools, mentors for support Chris’ transition from sales and marketing to multifamily Already people person, love business planning Had to overcome fears and bring on team How Chris and his business partner divide roles Paul excels at numbers, analytics and systems Chris focuses on investor relations Chris’ approach to deal flow and raising money Set yourself apart by ‘making it personal’ Create frictionless process of doing business What Chris is doing to handle scaling quickly Software to manage assets and team Grow team Chris’ advice on how to scale fast in multifamily Don’t be afraid to partner Join programs for tools, guidance and networking Connect with Chris Roberts Sterling Rhino Capital Sterling Rhino on YouTube Sterling Rhino on Facebook Sterling Rhino on LinkedIn Charging Forward Podcast Resources Get Tickets for Deal Maker Bootcamp Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program Join the Deal Maker’s Mastermind Register for the Deal Maker Certification Program Buy Michael’s Syndicated Deal Analyzer Access Michael’s Free Resources in the Freedom Vault Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club Review the Podcast on iTunes [Text CONTEST to 66866] Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank ActiveCampaign Michael on Facebook Michael on Instagram Michael on YouTube Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group Podcast Show Notes

MB301: A Blueprint for Developing New Skills – With Jerome Maldonado
In a culture with an aversion to failure, learning something new is scary. So, what is the best way to build new skills? How much information do you need before you start doing? And how do you keep moving forward when it gets hard? Real Estate Investor and Developer Jerome Maldonado got his start in direct sales and built a six-figure network marketing business in his mid-20’s. He leveraged those skills in team building and sales mastery to pivot into real estate and construction. Today, Jerome runs an eight-figure empire, and he is currently focused on land development and multifamily investing. On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Jerome joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to share his blueprint for getting into a new business and offer advice on how to stick with something when it gets hard. He explains how he developed such a strong work ethic, describing how he built a successful construction business and what inspired his pivot to buying land. Listen in for insight on minimizing risk as a land developer and learn Jerome’s secret to developing new skills as an entrepreneur and real estate investor! Key Takeaways How Jerome developed a strong work ethic Parents set example growing up Learned from competitive sports What skills most contribute to Jerome’s success Consistency Stay focused through difficult times Jerome’s advice on sticking with something Have faith in what you’re doing Press yourself in multiple ways How Jerome built a successful construction business Helped brother-in-law take over crew Leveraged sales experience to win big bids What inspired Jerome’s pivot to buying land Met developer at construction site Not afraid to ask questions about business Jerome’s blueprint for getting into a new business Take time to get educate yourself Be a DOER (but be methodical) Jerome’s reduce-the-risk approach to land development Work through entitlements during due diligence Ready to start immediately once land acquired How to learn more about land development Surround yourself with right people Inundate yourself with material Give up equity to veteran partner on first deal Connect with Jerome Maldonado Jerome’s Website Jerome on Twitter Jerome on Instagram Jerome on Facebook Jerome on YouTube Resources Get Tickets for Deal Maker Bootcamp Download Michael’s Special Report—What's the Best Investment: The Stock Market or Real Estate? Review the Podcast on iTunes [Text CONTEST to 66866] Access Michael’s Free Resources at the Freedom Vault Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank Tai Lopez Grant Cardone on Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing EP188 Michael on Facebook Michael on Instagram Michael on YouTube Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group Podcast Show Notes

MB300: The Best of 2021 on Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing
We had some inspiring guests on the podcast in 2021, all with their own particular interest or expertise around achieving financial freedom. But the one thing they all have in common is the powerful combination of hard work and passion it takes to achieve next-level success. So, what were some of the highlights from our interviews this past year? What are my top takeaways from the entrepreneurs and real estate investors who appeared on the show? On this episode, I’m sharing the Best of 2021 on Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, beginning with Jordan Harbinger’s insight on building relationships BEFORE you need them and Brandon Turner’s simple approach to developing your personal brand. We revisit John Lee Dumas’ dynamic formula for becoming a person of value, Joe Fairless’ perspective on raising capital through a fund and Chad Williams’ thoughts on applying Navy SEAL principles to your multifamily business. Listen in as we look back at Liz Faircloth’s commitment to building the Real Estate InvestHER community, Jenny Gou’s experience of leaving her high-paying corporate job for real estate, and Ronan McMahon’s understanding of opportunities to invest internationally! Key Takeaways Jordan Harbinger’s proactive approach to networking ‘Dig the well before you’re thirsty’ Don’t wait until you need something to reach out Brandon Turner’s insight on building a personal brand Consider how people already think about you Lean into what you’re good at (simplicity is key) John Lee Dumas’ take on what it takes to be successful Hard work + passion wins every time We develop passion for things we’re good at Liz Faircloth's passion for the Real Estate InvestHER community Support women investors, provide role models Thrive better in marriage to have own business Joe Fairless’ insight on raising capital through a fund Con = miss out on ‘lightning in a bottle’ Pro = spread out capital raise over time Chad Williams’ take on applying SEAL principles to multifamily Control emotions regardless of circumstances Take on role of servant leader Jenny Gou’s experience of quitting her job for real estate Inspired by desire to prioritize time with family Left corporate job, grew to 800 units in 10 months Ronan McMahon’s insight on investing internationally Big buying moment always happening somewhere Identify places with significant upside potential Resources Register for Michael’s Deal Maker Bootcamp Access Michael’s Deal Maker Certification Join the Deal Maker Mastermind Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program Get Your Tickets for Deal Maker Live Download Free Resources from The Freedom Vault Review the Podcast on iTunes [Text ‘contest’ to 66866] Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank Dig Your Well Before You’re Thirsty: The Only Networking Book You’ll Ever Need by Harvey Mackay GoBundance BiggerPockets Dave Meyer’s Data Deli on Instagram Podcast Show Notes Michael’s Website Michael on Facebook Michael on Instagram Michael on YouTube Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group

MB299: 2021 Year in Review & Market Outlook for 2022
One of the best things you can do for yourself at the end of each year is take time to reflect on what you’ve learned and achieved. Celebrate your wins and apply the lessons learned as you plan for the year to come. On this solo episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, I reflect on 2021 through the lens of our core values here at the Michael Blank brands, sharing what I’ve learned about making intentional decisions based on what’s really important to you. I discuss some of the milestones we’ve achieved in the last year, celebrating the launch of our Deal Maker Certification program and the three deals we closed through our investing arm, Nighthawk Equity. Listen in for insight into the market outlook for multifamily in 2022 and find out what we’ve got planned for the new year—and how YOU can be part of our mission to help 1,000 families achieve financial freedom in the next five years! Key Takeaways The benefit of examining your core values Focus on what’s important and make decisions accordingly Align with right partners, team members and community Our core values here at The Michael Blank brands Do what you say Do your best Make a difference Get stuff done The Michael Blank brands milestones for 2021 Onboard several new team members Host Deal Maker Live (first in-person event since COVID) 1,000 reviews of book on Amazon Launch Deal Maker Certification Mentoring students close 1 deal/ week Consolidate free resources at The Freedom Vault Our podcast milestones in 2021 Rebrand to better reflect mission Surpassed 3M downloads Notable guests (Jordan Harbinger, David Meltzer, etc.) Nighthawk Equity milestones for 2021 Closed 3 deals totaling 491 units, $90M Built social media presence on LinkedIn and Instagram Completed value-add renovations at 3 properties My top lessons learned in 2021 Know core values and be intentional Surround self with quality partners The Michael Blank brands plan for 2022 Help 1,000 families become financially free in next 5 years Build out Deal Maker Journey programs Expand team and introduce new faces/voices Why we believe multifamily will continue to do well in 2022 Millennials prefer to rent rather than own Opportunities to increase value of assets Why multifamily prices are likely go up in 2022 Growing inflation and higher incomes Ongoing low interest rates, demand for affordable housing My advice on creating an intentional plan for 2022 Reflect on what worked and what didn’t in last year Write vivid vision and plan goals accordingly Get clear on what financial freedom means to you Resources Get Your Tickets for Deal Maker Live Access Michael’s Deal Maker Certification Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program Download Free Resources from The Freedom Vault Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club Register for Michael’s Deal Maker Bootcamp Join the Deal Maker Mastermind Review the Podcast on iTunes Uganda Counseling and Support Services Syndicated Deal Analyzer The Core Value Equation: A Framework to Drive Results, Create Limitless Scale and Win the War for Talent by Darius Mirshahzadeh Core Values on Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing EP292 Navy SEAL Chad Williams Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank Nighthawk Equity on LinkedIn Nighthawk Equity on Instagram RIch Dad Poor Dad: What the Rich Teach Their Kids About Money That the Poor and Middle Class Do Not by Robert T. Kiyosaki The Miracle Morning: The Not-So-Obvious Secret Guaranteed to Transform Your Life (by 8AM) by Hal Elrod Vivid Vision: A Remarkable Tool for Aligning Your Business Around a Shared Vision of the Future by Cameron Herold Five Minute Journal App The State of Multifamily on Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing EP283 Consumer Price Index Podcast Show Notes Michael’s Website Michael on Facebook Michael on Instagram Michael on YouTube Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group

MB298: The 4 Levels of Financial Freedom – With Mandy McAllister
The more truth you put to any problem, the easier it is to solve. So, if you want to quit your W-2 job, start by doing the math. Because once you know how much you need to cover your living expenses, it’s just a matter of building your multifamily portfolio step by step until you achieve financial freedom. Mandy McAllister is Managing Member of Good Fortune Capital and Cofounder of the Aspiring Women Achieving More community. After years of chasing a commission, Mandy retired from her 9-to-5 in medical device sales to pursue multifamily investing full time. Today, she’s on a mission to help others define their own path to financial freedom. On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Mandy joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to share her take on the different levels of financial freedom, describing how she calculated her freedom number—and achieved it 12 months later. She explains why she started small, working her way up to large multifamily properties acquired in joint venture partnerships. Listen in for Mandy's insight on securing debt to match your business plan and learn how to leverage multifamily investing to break free of YOUR golden handcuffs and live a life by design! Key Takeaways When Mandy started thinking about quitting her job Bought fourplex when son was born as college fund Saw potential to retire on cashflow with more deals Mandy’s take on the different levels of financial freedom Cover minimum living expenses Cover current living expenses Replace income Replace income plus buffer How Mandy financed her multifamily deals Use equity in other properties for deals Took on partners in JV structures for > 50 units How to decide whether to start small or go big right away Depends on individual goals Advantages to going larger What Mandy looks for in a multifamily deal B class asset with quality long-term debt Size agnostic (less competition for 50-unit deals) What Mandy looks for in a joint venture partnership Someone on same page who you can trust Important to have different strengths Why Mandy sees long-term debt as the ultimate flexibility 15-year loan on recent 53-unit acquisition Terms allow for 3 potential exit strategies What Mandy is doing to ensure consistent deal flow Network with young, hungry investors at Meetup Potential JVs look for deals that fit her criteria Where Mandy is looking to invest right now Strong growth markets in Midwest Drive there and back before dinner How COVID influenced Mandy’s decision to quit her job Did 4 transaction in 3 months with extra time Brought in double W-2 income What Mandy is looking forward to moving forward Impact as many lives as possible Help others remove golden handcuffs Connect with Mandy McAllister Mandy’s Website Good Fortune Capital Aspiring Women Achieving More Mandy on Instagram Mandy on Facebook Mandy on YouTube Mandy on LinkedIn Resources Get Tickets for Deal Maker Bootcamp Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club Rocket Fuel: The One Essential Combination That Will Get You More of What You Want from Your Business by Gino Wickman and Mark C. Winters Mint Michael on Facebook Michael on Instagram Michael on YouTube Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group Podcast Show Notes

MB297: What’s the Key to Happiness—Success or Significance? – With David Meltzer
What will make you happy? Yes, money gives us the freedom to retire early and spend our days on a beach somewhere. But it doesn't take long to realize that a fulfilling life requires purpose and meaning. That the end goal is not success but significance. Bestselling author and Top 100 Business Coach David Meltzer is the cofounder of Sports 1 Marketing and former CEO of Leigh Steinberg Sports & Entertainment, the agency that inspired the film Jerry Maguire. David is also the executive producer of the television series 2 Minute Drill and Office Hours and host of The Playbook Podcast. His life’s mission is to empower one billion people to be happy. On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, David joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to explain what he learned from his biggest failure, describing the abundance mindset he used to bounce back from losing $100M. He shares his daily habits for achieving success and fulfillment, challenging us to adopt an attitude of gratitude and prioritize what really matters. Listen in for David's insight on reframing failure and learn to engage in the consistent, persistent pursuit of YOUR greatest potential! Key Takeaways What David learned from losing $100M and going bankrupt When you appreciate what you have, it grows More than enough of everything for everyone David’s quest to empower over 1B people with happiness Teach gratitude, forgiveness and accountability Help people prioritize and apply their WHY David’s daily habits for achieving next-level success Take daily inventory of what you want Know your what, who and how Know your now (priorities, non-negotiables) Clear any interference between you & God Why David builds his calendar around 5-minute coaching Leads to productivity, accessibility and gratitude Prioritize discussion around what really matters How David’s definition of success has changed over time Used to be defined by bank account Now consistent, persistent pursuit of potential Connect with David Meltzer David’s Website Email [email protected] The Playbook Podcast Resources Review the Podcast on Apple [Text CONTEST to 66866] Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program Get Tickets for Deal Maker Bootcamp Join Michael’s Deal Maker Certification Program Uganda Counseling and Support Services Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank 2 Minute Drill Office Hours with David Meltzer Game-Time Decision Making: High-Scoring Business Strategies from the Biggest Name in Sports by David Meltzer Connected to Goodness: Manifest Everything You Desire in Business and Life by David Meltzer with Harrison Lebowitz Bob Proctor Michael on Facebook Michael on Instagram Michael on YouTube Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group Podcast Show Notes

MB296: Getting Brokers to Take You Seriously – With Savannah Arroyo
How do you get brokers to take you seriously if you’re brand new to multifamily? Savannah Arroyo and her husband Lupe talked to 50 brokers before they found one who was willing to work with them. But that relationship led to three deals in nine months, allowing Savannah to quit her full-time job as an RN! Savannah is the Founder of Networth Nurse, a platform designed to help healthcare professionals stop living paycheck to paycheck. Through the Networth Nurse blog and YouTube channel, she educates and empowers her colleagues around personal finance and multifamily investing. Savannah and her husband Lupe leveraged the Michael Blank Mentoring Program to accelerate their success, partnering with other students in our network to close three syndications and replace her income as a nurse in under a year. On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Savannah joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to explain how she got that first broker to take her seriously. She describes how she and Lupe created a five-year game plan for their real estate business and then put in the reps, taking daily action to realize that vision. Listen in to understand the benefits of investing in your multifamily education and learn how Savannah is scaling her portfolio through partnerships and the Networth Nurse platform. Key Takeaways The freedom of choice real estate gives Savannah Still works as RN when she wants Very involved in children’s lives What inspired Savannah and her husband to pursue real estate Way to invest that puts money in pockets now Strategy to grow wealth, earn passive income How Savannah and Lupe came up with a real estate game plan Set vision for 5 years out and worked backward Got educated and invested in coaching How Savannah got started with single family rentals Lender told about $100K of equity in home Used debt to buy income-producing assets Why Savannah transitioned from SFH rentals to multifamily Realized scale necessary to achieve vision Healthcare operations skill set translates to apartments How Savannah pursued real estate while working full time Work on real estate from 8 to 12pm every day Built-in accountability partner in husband How Savannah overcame limiting beliefs around raising money Trusted with leadership role at work Mitigate risk with research and underwriting How to get brokers to take you seriously as a new investor Be specific about what you’re looking for Provide feedback on deals within 48 hours Savannah’s first multifamily deal $1M 12-unit in Oregon financed through credit union Struggled to raise $350K from friends and family Why Savannah decided to invest in coaching Leverage mentor’s experience to avoid mistakes Momentum to get into first deal much quicker What Savannah is doing to scale the business Partner with other investors to raise capital Build online platform with Networth Nurse How Savannah and her husband share responsibilities Husband does acquisitions and asset management Savannah raises capital and does marketing Savannah’s advice for aspiring multifamily investors Reach out to someone doing what you want Research and get educated with podcasts, networking Connect with Savannah Arroyo Networth Nurse Networth Nurse on YouTube Networth Nurse on Instagram Networth Nurse on LinkedIn Networth Nurse on Facebook Resources Get Tickets for Deal Maker Bootcamp Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program Register for Deal Maker Live Join Michael’s Deal Maker Certification Program Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank The Miracle Equation: The Two Decisions That Move Your Biggest Goals from Possible to Probable to Inevitable by Hal Elrod BiggerPockets Dave Ramsey Michael on Facebook Michael on Instagram Michael on YouTube Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group Podcast Show Notes

MB295: Become a Person of Value, Achieve Success – With John Lee Dumas
John Lee Dumas spent the first 32 years of his life chasing the almighty dollar—with little success. But when he took Albert Einstein’s advice and decided to become a man of value, that’s when JLD got a taste of success. JLD is the host of the award-winning podcast Entrepreneurs on Fire, which has racked up over 100M listens and 3K five-star reviews since its launch in 2012. Through EOF, he has interviewed more than 3K of the world’s most successful entrepreneurs, delivering the inspiration and strategies listeners need to FIRE UP their own entrepreneurial journey. JLD is also the author of The Common Path to Uncommon Success: A Roadmap to Financial Freedom and Fulfillment. On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, JLD joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to discuss his early struggle to succeed and explain how he approaches the podcast as a way to provide value. He reflects on the powerful combination between hard work and passion, sharing the lessons he’s learned from elite entrepreneurs around productivity, discipline and focusing on one path to success. Listen in for JLD’s method of deciding which opportunities to pursue (investment and otherwise) and find out how achieving financial freedom can help YOU bring big-time value to the world. Key Takeaways Why JLD struggled to succeed prior to EOF Dealt with PTSD after tour in Iraq Chase success vs. provide value JLD’s short career in commercial real estate Commit to one year as junior broker Felt no excitement for closing deals JLD’s approach to starting the podcast Think long-term and be patient 18-month window to earn revenue Why hard work isn’t enough to succeed Hard work + passion win every time Grow to love things you’re good at Why financial freedom is important to JLD Utility of money brings joy Lack causes anxiety and overwhelm The key themes in The Common Path... Steps to make more than you spend Become #1 solution to real problem What JLD is investing in right now Cryptocurrency and NFTs Angel invest in startups JLD’s top takeaways from 3K interviews Focus on producing right content Discipline to execute on plan Focus on one course to success How JLD picks what opportunities to pursue If it’s not a hell yes, it’s a no Miss great opportunities if plate full How JLD decides what to invest in Research and find mentors in space Believe in value company brings Connect with John Lee Dumas Entrepreneurs on Fire The Common Path to Uncommon Success: A Roadmap to Financial Freedom and Fulfillment by John Lee Dumas Resources Get Tickets for Deal Maker Bootcamp Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert T. Kiyosaki Hell Yeah or No: What’s Worth Doing by Derek Sivers CryptoDads Mutant Punks Mutant Cats HEAD DAO NFTs on Fire Podcast Michael Hyatt’s Desire Zone Michael on Facebook Michael on Instagram Michael on YouTube Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group Podcast Show Notes

MB294: Build Your Confidence at Deal Maker Bootcamp – With Drew Kniffin
Robert Kiyosaki’s Cone of Learning illustrates that while we only remember 10% of what we read after two weeks, we recall a full 90% of what we say and do. And that’s why aspiring investors who work through a simulation of their first deal are so much more confident than those who don’t practice the process beforehand. But what does it look like to simulate your first multifamily deal? Where can you go to rehearse the steps in the Deal Maker Blueprint and gain the confidence to follow through? On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Nighthawk Equity President Drew Kniffin joins me to discuss our upcoming Deal Maker Bootcamp in Orlando this January and explain how the workshop simulates the process of finding and closing on your first multifamily deal. We explore the benefits of simulating your first deal and following a proven process, challenging you to master the critical skill of analyzing deals quickly and accurately. Listen in for insight on the three kinds of people you need in your real estate network (and where to find them) and learn our top strategies for simulating your first apartment deal and building confidence while you practice in a safe environment. Key Takeaways Robert Kiyosaki’s Cone of Learning Remember 10% of what we read Remember 50% of what we see and hear Remember 90% of what we say and do The benefits of simulating your first deal Builds confidence Know what to expect if LOI accepted How to simulate your first multifamily deal Practice in throw away market Visit larger properties Build sample deal package The 3 kinds of people you should network with Peer group (Deal Maker’s Mastermind) Mentors who’ve done what you want Partners with complementary skills Why we recommend following a proven process Don’t have figure out next step on own Avoid expensive mistakes The benefit of being able to analyze deals Need for negotiating and making offers Confidence to talk to brokers/investors Connect with Drew Kniffin Nighthawk Equity Drew on Twitter Drew on LinkedIn Resources Register for Michael’s Deal Maker Bootcamp Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program Join Michael’s Deal Maker’s Mastermind Learn More About Deal Maker Live Get Michael’s Blueprint to Your First Multifamily Deal Access Michael’s Syndicated Deal Analyzer Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank Robert Kiyosaki’s Cone of Learning Sample Deal Package The Deal Maker Certification on MB EP262 Podcast Show Notes Michael’s Website Michael on Facebook Michael on Instagram Michael on YouTube Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group

MB293: Scale Your Syndication Business Through Social Media – With Brandon Turner
Imagine having the ability to raise $100M for syndication deals in less than 18 months on your favorite social media platform! The fact is, you can take advantage of Facebook, Instagram and even TikTok to reach accredited investors and build connection until they trust you with their money. But how do you create a personal brand and grow an audience online? Brandon Turner is a real estate investor, entrepreneur, speaker and host of the BiggerPockets Podcast. He serves as Founder and Managing Partner at Open Door Capital, a firm that focuses on value-add multifamily properties and mobile home parks. Brandon is also the coauthor of the recently released two-volume series The Multifamily Millionaire. On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Brandon joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to discuss his recent shift to large multifamily projects, explaining how his platform allows him to raise tens of millions in days on Instagram. He shares his passion for mobile home parks, challenging aspiring investors to ‘follow our fire’ and surround ourselves with the people doing what we want. Listen in for Brandon’s insight on building a personal brand and learn to leverage the power of a platform to scale your syndication business! Key Takeaways What inspired Brandon’s shift to large multifamily Got in room with investors doing bigger projects Realized not aligned with what could be doing Why Brandon is fired up about mobile home parks Wanted to be at bottom of market in recession Love challenge of hard things (passion = suffering) Brandon’s pivot to large multifamily syndications Bring ability to raise capital to JV partnerships 3 deals worth more than 20 mobile home parks Why Brandon likes building his platform on Instagram Good for getting people to know, like and trust you People choose to invest based on how you live How Brandon would build a following if he had to start over Use Instagram reels/TikTok to reach lots of people Build connection on Instagram, funnel to email list Why Brandon is building his email and text lists Instagram can’t take away addresses or phone #s Reach out to accredited investors (high open rate) Brandon’s insight on building a personal brand How other people feel when think about you Lean into what people say, e.g.: @thedatadeli The pros and cons of investing in small multifamily Less cash required and easier to manage Can only get so big, more competition on deals The pros and cons of investing in large multifamily More risk, must be good at business Can scale quickly and buy $1B in short time Brandon’s advice to aspiring multifamily investors Option 1—learn with small projects and scale up Option 2—bypass with help of mentor/partner Follow your fire Connect with Brandon Turner Brandon on Instagram Brandon on TikTok Brandon on BiggerPockets The Multifamily Millionaire, Volume I by Brandon Turner and Brian Murray The Multifamily Millionaire, Volume II by Brandon Turner and Brian Murray Resources Find Out More About Michael’s Platform Builders Masterclass Get Tickets for Deal Maker Bootcamp Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club Download Michael’s Free Report—What's the Best Investment: The Stock Market or Real Estate? Register for Deal Maker Live Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank Brandon Turner on Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing EP221 BPCON Brian Murray on LinkedIn Slybroadcast Dave Meyer on Instagram Joe Fairless Grant Cardone Michael on Facebook Michael on Instagram Michael on YouTube Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group Podcast Show Notes

MB292: Find the Right Investing Partners Through Core Values
Multifamily investing is a team sport. And choosing the right partners and team members is critical. But how do you go about determining who is a good fit for your organization and who isn’t? On this solo episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, I discuss the importance of figuring out what you stand for and then using those core values to make decisions in your investing business. I walk you through the process of determining your core values, explaining how to choose your themes and translate them into easy-to-memorize headers. Listen in for insight around our core values here at the Michael Blank organization and learn how to get clear on your own values and use them to find the right partners and team members for your investing business! Key Takeaways The importance of identifying your core values Find quality partners and hire team Use to make important decisions Our core values here at The Michael Blank brands Make a difference Do what you say Do your best Get stuff done How to identify core values in your organization Themes Header Descriptive The themes we chose at The Michael Blank brands Integrity Excellence & Accountability Teamwork & Contribution Efficiency & Hard Work How to translate your themes into headers Sticky, user-friendly words and phrases Easily memorized and recalled by team How to expand your headers into descriptives Describe what core value means Clarify in 4 to 8 detailed sentences Resources Radical Candor: Be a Kick-Ass Boss without Losing Your Humanity by Kim Scott Who: The A Method for Hiring by Geoff Smart and Randy Street The Core Value Equation: A Framework to Drive Results, Create Limitless Scale and Win the War for Talent by Darius Mirshahzadeh Register for Michael’s Deal Maker Bootcamp Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank Podcast Show Notes Michael’s Website Michael on Facebook Michael on Instagram Michael on YouTube Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group

MB291: From Homeless Addict to Successful Investor – With Rob Rowsell
While most of us resist setbacks and struggles, both are crucial to our growth. In fact, the most successful investors are those who respond to failure with resilience. Who pick themselves up, dust themselves off and take the next step of uncomfortable action toward their dreams. Rob Rowsell embodies that kind of human will. In 1999, he was a homeless crack addict living on the streets. Then, he stumbled into a rehab center, and through sheer grit, Rob turned his life around. Today, he is a real estate investor, motivational speaker, multiple business owner and bestselling author of Addicted to Life: How I Went from Homeless to Extraordinary Success and Happiness in a Short Period of Time. On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Rob joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to share his journey from homeless addict to successful multifamily investor. He explains why so many aspiring investors don’t succeed, challenging us to develop a strong WHY and leverage visualization to reach our goals. Listen in for Rob’s insight on cultivating the mindset you need to take action, grow through the challenges and achieve financial freedom as a multifamily investor! Key Takeaways Rob’s struggle with addiction Hooked on meth and crack cocaine Homeless and unemployable What inspired Rob’s decision to change Realized on path to death or prison Pain to stay same > pain to change How Rob got back into society Choose new people, places and things Willing to take uncomfortable action Why aspiring investors don’t take action Biggest hurdle = previous successes Lack big enough WHY How Rob uses visualization to reach his goals Write out as if already accomplished Read over to instill yearning, belief The traits of a successful entrepreneur Build momentum via stacked action Willing to act despite uncertainty Grow through catastrophic failure How Rob used knowledge to build momentum Ziglar taught potential to succeed Saved to buy Carleton Sheets course How Rob got into real estate Bought auto repair shops no $ down Used hard money for first few SFHs How Rob grew a 1K-unit multifamily portfolio Start with SFH buy-and-hold strategy Flip SFHs into small multifamily Reinvest profits in larger multifamily Connect with Rob Rowsell Addicted to Life Resources Get Tickets for Deal Maker Bootcamp Access Michael’s Syndicated Deal Analyzer Download Michael’s Deal Maker Blueprint Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program Addicted to Life: How I Went from Homeless to Extraordinary Success and Happiness in a Short Period of Time by Rob Rowsell See You at the Top by Zig Ziglar Carleton Sheets Michael on Facebook Michael on Instagram Michael on YouTube Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group Podcast Show Notes

MB290: An Introvert’s Guide to Investing with Partners – With Camilla Jeffs
While single-family real estate is an individual sport, multifamily investing usually involves partners. But finding someone you trust to work with on a multi-million-dollar apartment deal can be challenging, especially for an introvert. So, how do you overcome limiting beliefs around partnering to become a successful multifamily investor? Camilla Jeffs is the Founder and CEO of Steady Stream Investments, a firm focused on providing investment opportunities in large multifamily and senior housing communities. Also known as the Introverted Investor, she has served as the GP for four deals in nine months, built a portfolio of 250 units and quit her W-2 job! Camilla has 19 years of experience in real estate, and she is passionate about educating passive investors around the opportunity to achieve financial freedom through multifamily. On this episode of the Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Camilla joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to share why it took her 15 years to transition from DIY single-family investor to multifamily GP. She describes the limiting beliefs she carried around partnering with others and explains how she excels at raising capital—despite being an introvert. Listen in for Camilla’s insight on investing for a financial, social and environmental return and learn why networking is key in multifamily syndication. Key Takeaways Camilla’s experience of quitting her W-2 job Excited to spend days doing what she loves Loves flexibility and freedom in schedule How Camilla got into real estate investing House hacking out of necessity to start Build portfolio of SFH + small multifamily What inspired Camilla’s shift to large multifamily Tired after 15 years of DIY management Spending 4 to 5 hours/day on 15 units Why it took Camilla so long to try multifamily Limiting beliefs about partnering Didn’t network with other investors Why Camilla took on the role of capital raiser Teacher at heart (despite introversion) Help people achieve time freedom The mindset shift that made Camilla successful Little success with ‘I need your money’ Changed pitch to present opportunity How Camilla thinks about choosing an operator Find through mentoring groups, meetups Different skills but same vision/values Camilla’s concept of the Investing Trifecta Financial return Social return Environmental return Connect with Camilla Jeffs The Introverted Investor Camilla on Instagram Camilla on LinkedIn Camilla on YouTube Camilla on TikTok Resources Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club Download Michael’s Free Report—What’s the Best Investment: The Stock Market or Real Estate? Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank Michael on Facebook Michael on Instagram Michael on YouTube Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group Podcast Show Notes

MB289: Apply the 80/20 Rule to Scale Your Syndication Business – With Perry Marshall
You may have heard the idea that only 20% of what we do in business produces 80% of the results. And it follows that if you identify the right 20% and focus on that, you can scale a syndication business fast. But what does that look like in practice? How do you apply the 80/20 rule to make decisions around how to spend your time? Endorsed by Forbes and Inc. Magazine, Perry Marshall is one of the most expensive business strategists in the world and the creator of the world’s largest science research challenge, the $10M Evolution 2.0 Prize. Perry’s reinvention of the Pareto Principle is published in the Harvard Business Review, and he is the author of eight books, including 80/20 Sales and Marketing and Memos from the Head Office. On this episode of the Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Perry joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to explain the concept of the Pareto Principle and discuss how it applies to real estate syndication. He describes how we can leverage the 80/20 pattern to scale an investing business, challenging us to focus 50% of our attention on the right 1% of our investments. Listen in for Perry’s advice on identifying and marketing to the right investors and learn how YOU can use the 80/20 rule to prioritize your time as a multifamily syndicator! Key Takeaways The concept of the 80/20 principle Originated by Italian economist Vilfredo Pareto Identified 20% of people have 80% of wealth Perry's realization re: the fractal nature of 80/20 Pattern of 80/20 inside every 80/20 1% of customers make 50% of purchases How a syndication businesses can scale using 80/20 1% of investments produce 50% of profits Focus half of attention on right 1% How to identify the 20% of investors to focus on Make prospects DO something to qualify lead Focus marketing on 20%, then repeat process Perry’s insight around the 20/120 rule of business 20% of activity makes 120% of revenue Bottom 20% takes you backward The message in Perry’s book Memos from the Head Office Tap into spirituality and faith for decision-making Listen to insight from God to resolve conflict Connect with Perry Marshall Perry’s Website Sell 80/20 Resources Register for Michael’s Platform Builders Masterclass Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank 80/20 Sales and Marketing: The Definitive Guide to Working Less and Making More by Perry Marshall ‘80/20 Is a Fractal Law of Nature’ in Harvard Business Review John Paul Mendocha Memos from the Head Office: Channeling the Muse in Business and in Life by Perry Marshall and John Fancher Ultimate Guide to Google Ads by Perry Marshall, Mike Rhodes and Bryan Todd Ultimate Guide to Facebook Advertising by Perry Marshall, Keith Krance and Thomas Meloche Michael on Facebook Michael on Instagram Michael on YouTube Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group Podcast Show Notes

MB288: Why Relationships Are Your Best Insurance Policy – With Jordan Harbinger
Most people wait until they need something to start networking. But it’s a real challenge to talk people into helping you when they haven’t heard from you in years. On the other hand, if you make networking a priority and ‘dig the well before you’re thirsty,’ those connections become true friends who fight for you when you need it. Jordan Harbinger is the host of iTunes Top 100 ranked The Jordan Harbinger Show, a podcast where he interviews the world’s top performers, including legendary actors and musicians, intelligence operatives, professional athletes, iconic writers and other visionary change-makers. Jordan is best known for creating one of the leading self-development programs in the world, with a special emphasis on social capital and relationship building. On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Jordan joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to share his proactive approach to networking, explaining why it’s crucial to build relationships before you need them. He offers insight on making connections with A-listers and other high-net-worth individuals, challenging us to provide value and be ‘politely persistent’ for as long as it takes. Listen in for Jordan’s advice on starting over after the breakup of a business partnership and find out why relationships are the best insurance policy money can’t buy. Key Takeaways How to find the right level of fearlessness and curiosity Can’t throw caution to wind without strategy 'Nobody ever went broke selling when up 10%’ Jordan’s transition from law to entrepreneurship Firm losing clients when market tanked in ‘08 Money saved from Wall Street gave runway Went all-in on weekly radio show (side hustle) Jordan’s proactive approach to networking Build relationships before you need them Leverage system to keep people top of mind How Jordan builds relationships with A-listers Be politely persistent and follow up for years Make it worth their time to work with you How Jordan provides value to celebrities Make publicist’s job easy, introduce network 'Everybody needs something’ How Jordan started over after a business breakup Took team along (strong relationships) ‘Best revenge is to live well’ What lessons Jordan learned from starting over Gut check re: who you work with Recognize people grow at different rates Double down on networking Connect with Jordan Harbinger The Jordan Harbinger Show Jordan’s Networking Course Resources Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club Superhuman Dig Your Well Before You’re Thirsty: The Only Networking Book You’ll Ever Need by Harvey Mackay Michael on Facebook Michael on Instagram Michael on YouTube Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group Podcast Show Notes

MB287: Investing in International Real Estate Markets – With Ronan McMahon
If I could go back in time, I’d return to 2010 and take advantage of the big buying moment in real estate at the time. But Ronan McMahon argues that if you set your sights beyond the States, there are circumstances like that at play somewhere in the world right now—if you’re willing to invest in international markets. Ronan is a contributing editor at International Living and founder of Real Estate Trend Alert, a newsletter where he explores investment opportunities from all over the world. Ronan spends six months of the year on the road, looking for the best real estate investments around the globe. He is also the author of Profit Principle: An Insider’s Guide to Doubling Your Money in Real Estate Overseas. On this episode of the Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Ronan joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to explain why investors should consider diversifying with international real estate. He offers insight on the international markets he likes right now, describing how to invest in the path of progress and choose projects with significant upside potential. Listen in for Ronan’s advice on partnering with trusted operators in other countries and learn how his team connects investors with opportunities overseas. Key Takeaways How Ronan got into international real estate investing Invested in home country of Ireland until values too high Invited to travel, identify projects for International Living Why investors should consider international real estate Big buying moments always happening somewhere Less competition with other investors vs. US Ronan’s advice on shortening your learning curve Find trusted partner on ground with local knowledge Start with market one step from home beat (e.g.: Cabo) Ronan’s insight on securing financing in international markets 'Forget it’ (come with capital) Choose projects with incredibly high returns The international markets Ronan likes right now Algarve region of Portugal Tulum and Cabo San Lucas, Mexico Panama City How Ronan’s business model is set up Partner with developers for access to first 100 units Members purchase individual condos at discount Ronan’s advice on navigating the legal system in other countries Partner with locals in business for multiple generations Little recourse in handshake countries with weak courts How Ronan’s team navigates regulatory issues outside the US Avoid by connecting developers with individual buyers Mindful of liability around holding title in Mexico Connect with Ronan McMahon Real Estate Trend Alert Ronan at International Living Resources Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club Access Michael’s Blueprint to Your First Multifamily Deal Training International Living What Is the Fideicomiso? Michael on Facebook Michael on Instagram Michael on YouTube Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group Podcast Show Notes

MB286: The Rocky Transition from Flips to Multifamily – With J Scott
You might think it would be easy for a well-known flipper to transition to multifamily. But the truth is, a successful career in single-family does NOT translate to the world of apartment building investing. So, how do you make the leap from single-family rentals and flips to multifamily investor? J Scott serves as Partner at Bar Down Investments, a multifamily investing firm with a portfolio of 1,000 units. J got his start in single-family real estate and built a reputation in the flipping business, rehabbing 500 properties and authoring four bestselling books in the BiggerPockets library. And then 18 months ago, J made the transition to multifamily investing. On this episode of the podcast, J joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to share what inspired his move into multifamily and explain why flipping houses is not the path to financial freedom. He opens up about lacking credibility in the multifamily space, offering insight on how to get brokers to trust you if you’re new to the game. Listen in to understand the 3 things you need to get investors to work with you and learn how to build a reputation in the multifamily space—with or without prior real estate experience! Key Takeaways How J got into the real estate space Work long hours as corporate engineer in tech space Shift to real estate in 2008 to 'put family first' What inspired J’s transition to multifamily Burned out on flips and single-family rentals Had cash to invest but didn’t trust anyone else Why flipping houses is not the path to financial freedom Transactional (trade time for money) Need passive income stream Why it took J so long to make the shift to multifamily Ego (reputation as ‘flip guy’) No credibility in multifamily space What J did to compensate for his lack of credibility Admit had to start over, build new relationships Find mentor and add value How to get brokers to trust you if you’re new to multifamily Partner with someone who has track record Prove serious by underwriting and giving feedback J’s advice for investors considering a shift to multifamily Build marketing machine for 6 months first Multifamily scales much better The benefit of having single-family experience Learn mechanics of deal with less money at risk Skills of acquisitions, underwriting, raising money The 3 things you need to get an investor to work with you Build relationship so they LIKE and TRUST you Make them NEED you (e.g.: retirement plan) How to differentiate yourself from bigger operators Do what you’re good at, educate new investors Tap into personal network Connect with J Scott J’s Website Bar Down Investments Resources Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program Access Michael’s Blueprint to Your First Multifamily Deal Training Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank Books by J Scott Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert T. Kiyosaki Ashley Wilson How to Win Friends & Influence People by Dale Carnegie Michael’s Website Michael on Facebook Michael on Instagram Michael on YouTube Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group Podcast Show Notes

MB285: Success Starts with Purpose – With David Osborn
The most successful people are also the most purposeful. They create a vision for the future and take steps to get a little better every day. They take the time to ask: Is my life working for me? If not, how would I like it to look different? David Osborn is the principal owner of the sixth largest real estate company in the US with 4,500-plus agents and $11B in annual sales. David also runs a real estate investing private equity firm and operates 35 other profitable real estate related businesses in the US and Canada. He is well-known for being one of the cofounders of GoBundance, a community of healthy, wealthy, generous men who choose to lead EPIC lives. On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, David joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to explain his tagline, ‘Who you become on your journey is far more important than what you achieve.’ He offers insight on the value of connecting with the right people and growing into the best version of yourself. Listen in to understand why David’s definition of wealth involves more than just money and find out how the most successful people get clear on where they’re going and walk in purpose. Key Takeaways How David became a real estate investor Got start as agent, opened KW franchises in TX, NM All-in on investing in 2011 but ran out of own capital Mission to meet wealthy people and raise money Establish fund to invest in single family rentals What investments David is bullish on right now Dwelling spaces and rentals (single and multifamily) Real estate in Sunbelt states with fewer regulations Why who you become is more important than what you achieve Controlling every decision makes you the bottleneck Leadership means delegating trust (world gets bigger) External world = reflection of who you are as human The areas of his life David is working on right now More present with wife and children Working with coach on conscious leadership Meditate on regular basis Health including workouts Learning (40 books/year and podcasts) How David thinks about finding work-life balance Worked 12-hour days to achieve financial freedom Work smarter now, better relationships at home David’s well-rounded definition of wealth More than just money and financial freedom Being good human, finding ways to contribute Having adventures and being well-learned Why it’s crucial to surround yourself with the right people Genius of humans = sharing and connectivity Find peers who push and inspire you to get better The GoBundance origin story Accountability partners with Pat Hiban, Tim Rhode Invite others to join in bucket-list adventures Growth comes from authenticity and transparency David’s top lessons learned as an entrepreneur Know where you’re going (purposeful vision for life) Invest in marriage and make time for kids Connect with David Osborn David’s Website David on Instagram GoBundance Resources Be a Part of Michael’s Deal Maker Mastermind Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club Entrepreneurs’ Organization TIGER 21 Conscious Loving: The Journey to Co-Commitment by Gay & Kathlyn Hendricks The 15 Commitments of Conscious Leadership: A New Paradigm for Sustainable Success by Jim Dethmer, Diana Chapman & Kaley Klemp The Almanack of Naval Ravikant: A Guide to Wealth and Happiness by Eric Jorgenson Huberman Lab Podcast Wealth Can’t Wait: Avoid the 7 Wealth Traps, Implement the 7 Business Pillars, and Complete a Life Audit Today! by David Osborn & Paul Morris Diego Corzo The Family Board Meeting: You Have 18 Summers to Create Lasting Connection with Your Children by Jim Sheils Lifespan: Why We Age—and Why We Don’t Have To by David A. Sinclair Black Belt of the Mind by Fred Grosse Pat Hiban Tim Rhode Scott Harrison of Charity Water Gary Keller The Miracle Morning: The Not-So-Obvious Secret Guaranteed to Transform Your Life (Before 8AM) by Hal Elrod Richard Branson Tribe of Millionaires: What If One Choice Could Change Everything? by David Osborn & Pat Hiban Michael’s Website Michael on Facebook Michael on Instagram Michael on YouTube Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group Podcast Show Notes

MB284: How to Structure Multifamily Deals to Mitigate Risk – With Andrew Cushman
Even if you choose the right property, the wrong debt can wreck a multifamily deal. So, what can we do to manage shifts in the real estate market? How do we structure deals in a way that mitigates risk? Andrew Cushman serves as Principal at Vantage Point Acquisitions, a private equity firm focused on acquiring and repositioning multifamily properties throughout the Southeast US. He left his 9-to-5 as a chemical engineer for real estate in 2007 and built a lucrative house flipping business before finding multifamily in 2011. Since then, Andrew has successfully syndicated more than 2,100 units and launched The Multifamily Accelerator, a mastermind for active and experienced real estate investors. On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Andrew joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to explain why he is confident about buying multifamily right now and share what he is doing to maintain deal flow. He offers insight on underwriting to account for a spike in interest rates or a shift in rent growth and shares his secret for finding off-market deals. Listen in as Andrew describes what kind of inflation is good for apartment investors and learn how to structure agency or bridge debt to best manage risk. Key Takeaways Why Andrew is confident about buying multifamily right now Large, sophisticated groups making offers on small properties Right types of inflation benefit multifamily in particular The kind of inflation that’s good for multifamily real estate Labor, cost of building and properties all on rise Interest rates stay low while incomes increase Why Andrew used 12-year, fixed-rate debt on a recent deal Buyer can assume debt in 6 years if interest rates up Property value likely up if interest rates still low Option to hold for 6 more years if market in trouble Andrew’s top strategies for structuring bridge debt Don’t take maximum leverage, negotiate lower interest rate 5-year loan affords options while 1-year loan does not How to mitigate the risk of a spike in interest rates Debt structure with options for exit Conservative rent growth assumptions Modify exit cap rate (+ 10 basis points for every year held) What Andrew is doing to find multifamily deals right now Leverage long-term broker relationships Direct outreach to owners in select markets Driving for dollars Andrew’s tips for reaching out to owners directly Ask under what circumstances would consider selling Be careful not to hurt existing broker relationships What Andrew is doing to maintain deal flow Add team member to increase number of leads Consider expanding into new markets Andrew’s strategy for bidding on listed multifamily deals Never win best and final on price (try creative terms) Stay involved to stay top-of-mind with brokers How Andrew thinks about rent increases in his underwriting Current level of rent increases not sustainable Underwrite to current rents or well below forecast increases Buy where renovated rent

MB283: The State of Multifamily
Is now really a good time to get started in multifamily? COVID put real estate on a bit of a roller coaster ride. The market cooled for a bit but then came back even hotter! So, is it too hot now? What should we be thinking about as we decide whether to invest now or wait until later? On this solo episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, I explain why there will never be a PERFECT time to get into multifamily and discuss how we adjust our tactics with ups and down in the market. I offer insight on why real estate prices are going up right now and describe what soaring construction costs, ongoing demand for affordable housing and rising inflation means for multifamily. Listen in to understand the relationship between rising rents and property values—and find out why investing in REAL assets is the best thing you can do right now! Key Takeaways My insight on why now is the right time to get into multifamily There will never be a PERFECT time to get started If fundamentals are strong, stick with strategy but adjust tactics Don’t ask, ‘Should I get started?’ but ‘How can I get started?’ Why real estate prices are going up right now Low interest rates Increased demand Rising inflation The impact of soaring construction costs Median price of house up from $286K to $326K Affordable housing shortage worse than ever What the current inflationary environment means for multifamily Rising incomes and rents (in growing markets) Increasing NOI means value of building goes up The case for investing in multifamily Ongoing high demand and limited supply Rising incomes + inflation = higher rents High rents + low interest rates = higher prices Why it’s a good idea to invest in real assets right now Potential devaluation of dollar Hold things with intrinsic value Resources Explore Michael’s Deal Maker Certification Training Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program Register for Michael’s Platform Builders Masterclass Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club Get Michael’s Blueprint to Your First Multifamily Deal ‘Construction Costs Are Skyrocketing—Should You Build a House?’ in Forbes ‘The Housing Shortage Is Worse Than Ever—And Will Take a Decade of Record Construction to Fix, Reports Say’ in Forbes ‘Skyrocketing Steel, Lumber Costs Threaten to Slow Construction Jobs’ in Construction Dive ‘Soaring Lumber Prices Add $36,000 to the Cost of a New Home and a Fierce Land Grab Is Only Making It Worse’ on CNBC ‘The Housing Boom Could Be Losing Steam’ on CNN Business ‘Online Searches About Relocations Soar; Lack of Homes for Sale Driving Interest’ in The Washington Post ‘The Housing Shortage—Special Report’ in REALTOR Magazine ‘Once-in-a-Generation Response Needed to Address Housing Supply Crisis’ on the National Association of REALTORS Website ‘Apartment Rents Reach New High in June’ in GlobeSt ‘More Americans Are Leaving Cities, But Don’t Call It an Urban Exodus’ in Bloomberg Podcast Show Notes Michael’s Website Michael on Facebook Michael on Instagram Michael on YouTube Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group

MB282: Reframe Adversity as Rocket Fuel – With Mike ‘C-Roc’ Ciorrocco
Most people see adversity as a bad thing and avoid it at all costs. But what if setbacks are simply part of the journey to success? What if we can convert adversity into rocket fuel and use it to propel us to the next level? Mike ‘C-Roc’ Ciorrocco is the CEO of People Building, Inc. and Cofounder of the emerging tech company Blooprinted. He was named one of the Top Business Leaders to Follow in 2020 by Yahoo Finance and was #1 on their list of Top Mortgage Professionals the same year. Mike is also the host of What Are You Made Of? and the bestselling author of Rocket Fuel: Convert Setbacks, Become Unstoppable. On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Mike joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to explain why adversity is a good thing, describing how he converts setbacks into rocket fuel to become unstoppable. He walks us through the 3 C’s for achieving any big goal, challenging us to get clear on what we want and commit to taking consistent action. Listen in to find out how Mike got into business with Grant Cardone and learn his approach to reframing adversity as your best teacher. Key Takeaways The rocket fuel that makes Mike unstoppable 'Dirty fuel’ of difficult childhood Future dreams to pull forward How Mike lifted himself out of a negative environment Mom encouraged to be leader Never bought other’s BS to justify failures Mike’s 3 C’s for realizing you’re not stuck Clarity Commitment Consistency The importance of your peer group Bad things happen with wrong associates Surround self with people aligned with mission Why people have a hard time committing to a goal Say it’s hard, try to make self right Program self to best-case scenario Why Mike encourages people to tell their story Journey to success often invisible Adversity = part of process The 3 reasons people don’t share their story Don’t think people care Embarrassed by story Underestimate power to impact others Why adversity is ultimately a good thing Helps course correct when getting off track Teaches how to get where going Mike’s approach to bouncing back from a big setback SWOT analysis of worst-case scenario Don’t worry what other people think How Mike got into business with Grant Cardone Read 10X Rule, got immersed in his content Connect with Grant’s team to share successes Ask to write forward for Rocket Fuel Work together to launch 10X Incubator What Mike wants to be remembered for Make people feel unstoppable Elevate others to achieve potential Connect with Mike Ciorrocco Mike on Clubhouse Mike on Instagram Mike on LinkedIn What Are You Made Of? Podcast Blooprinted Resources Access Michael’s Blueprint to Your First Multifamily Deal Training Learn About Michael’s Mentoring Program Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club Rocket Fuel: Convert Setbacks, Become Unstoppable by Mike Ciorrocco Grant Cardone 10X Incubator The 10X Rule: The Only Difference Between Success and Failure by Grant Cardone Grant Cardone Sales Training University The Miracle Morning: The Not-So-Obvious Secret Guaranteed to Transform Your Life by Hal Elrod Vivid Vision: A Remarkable Tool for Aligning Your Business Around a Shared Vision of the Future by Cameron Herold Podcast Show Notes Michael’s Website Michael on Facebook Michael on Instagram Michael on YouTube Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group

MB281: How to Scale a Portfolio of Mobile Home Parks – With Kevin Bupp
Scale is crucial to achieving financial freedom with real estate. And while multifamily is the fastest way to achieve scale, there are other commercial asset classes that will get you there, provided you understand the challenges and how to overcome them. Kevin Bupp is living the dream with mobile home parks, and he’s well-versed what it takes to grow a portfolio in this niche market. Kevin is the CEO of Sunrise Capital Investors, a firm that helps investors build legacy wealth through commercial real estate investing. Kevin and his team focus on mobile home parks and parking assets, market segments with less competition than other asset classes. He has been a real estate investor since he was 19 years old, and he has specialized in mobile home parks for the last 10 years. Kevin is also the host of the Real Estate Investing for Cashflow Podcast. On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Kevin joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to discuss the pros and cons of investing in mobile home parks. He explains why he made the commitment to self-manage his portfolio and shares best practices for building your own property management company. Listen in to understand the process of finding mobile home park deals and learn how Kevin built and scaled a successful mobile home park investing business! Key Takeaways What Kevin loves about mobile home parks Very high cash-on-cash returns Mom-and-pop owners = upside potential Very low tenant turnover rate The challenges of mobile home park investing Difficult to scale (focus on large lots) Must make commitment to self-manage How to build a property management company Add value to established group Hire from top down, not bottom up Kevin’s advice on scaling a mobile home portfolio Grow efficiently, do only good deals Focus on quality of life Kevin’s first hires for a property management team Invest in director of property management Experienced administrative assistant What a mobile home park value-add deal looks like Aesthetic improvements (e.g.: road repair) Renovate park-owned units Install new homes on vacant lots Individual submeters on each lot Why Kevin prefers selling mobile homes to renting Little to no profit on renters Average stay for owners = 9 years Kevin’s debt strategy for mobile home parks Fannie and Freddie loans Community banks or CMBS lenders How Kevin finds mobile home park deals Cold call and direct mail prospects Relationships with brokers How Kevin gets property owner contact info Secretary of state site for LLC members Skip trace software Why Kevin is getting into parking assets Cashflow, nice return on investment Positive future potential Connect with Kevin Bupp Kevin’s Website Sunrise Capital Investors Real Estate Investing for Cashflow Podcast Resources Podcast Show Notes Access Michael’s Blueprint to Your First Multifamily Deal Training Learn About Michael’s Mentoring Program Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club Kevin Bupp on Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing EP054 TLOxp LexisNexis CoStar Reonomy Hunter Thompson on Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing EP087 Podcast Show Notes Michael’s Website Michael on Facebook Michael on Instagram Michael on YouTube Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group

MB280: Take on the Challenge to Invest Out of Area – With Edna Keep
Investing out of your area is a challenge. And investing WAY out of your area, like in a different country, adds another layer of complexity to doing a deal. But as long as you’re willing to make a decision and start moving forward, there’s nothing you can’t figure out along the way. Edna Keep is a real estate investment coach and author of Multiple Ways to Wealth: Creating Your Prosperous Lifestyle. Edna spent 15 years as a financial advisor before she was introduced to real estate, and today, her team owns a portfolio of 800 doors worth $65M in both the US and Canada. On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Edna joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to share the ins and outs of investing out of area and explain the differences between the US and Canadian markets. She describes the challenges of being a foreign investor, offering insight into what she looks for in a market and how she builds a power team on the ground around a deal. Listen in for Edna’s advice on making a decision and then making it work for you—even if you don’t have all the answers about how a deal will work! Key Takeaways What inspired Edna’s interest in real estate Worked as financial advisor for 15 years Clients pull money for real estate deals How Edna pitches seller financing deals Focus on property owners looking to retire Keep income stream, avoid taxable event How Edna finds sellers that are planning to retire Real estate investment networks Referrals based on reputation Edna’s transition to larger multifamily properties Raise investor capital for Memphis deal Paid cash ($21,600 per door) Why Edna prefers real estate over mutual funds Mutual funds subject to market cycles Real estate offers consistency Why Edna is investing in US real estate markets Hot urban markets, high prices in Canada Challenging to get financing in Canada The logistics of investing in a foreign market Find deal, build power team on ground Canadian corporation owns US LLC What Edna looks for in a real estate market Focus on workforce housing Look for growing community Why it’s okay to not have all the answers Multiple exit strategies available Work with partners Edna’s advice for aspiring investors Make a decision, then make it work Don’t put all eggs in one basket Connect with Edna Keep Edna’s Website Email [email protected] Resources Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program Download Michael’s Free Report—What’s the Best Investment: The Stock Market or Real Estate? Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank Robert Kiyosaki National Real Estate Investors Association Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation Multifamily Networking from Anywhere in the World on FFWREI EP260 Canadian Real Estate Investment Trusts Podcast Show Notes Michael’s Website Michael on Facebook Michael on Instagram Michael on YouTube Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group

M279: Why Real Estate Is the Best Kind of Entrepreneurship – With Pete Schnepp
All entrepreneurial activities are not created equal. Running a service-based business is an active pursuit. You’re managing employees, making sales and then following through with high quality work. But in real estate, once you do the initial legwork, the money comes in automatically with very little effort on your part. Pete Schnepp is the successful entrepreneur behind Envision Painting and Roof Coatings, Bug Science Pest Control and PRS Properties. Pete got serious about building a real estate portfolio in 2017, and today, his rental income covers his family’s living expenses, and he is financially free. On this episode of the podcast, Pete joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to discuss what sets real estate apart from other kinds of entrepreneurship. Pete walks us through the steps he took to build a portfolio of properties and explains why his family continues to live below their means despite having achieved financial freedom. Listen in for Pete’s advice on revisiting your goals every day and find out how he is building generational wealth with real estate! Key Takeaways What inspired Pete’s interest in real estate Realized people with money involved in real estate Needed Plan B to protect family financially The steps Pete took to build his portfolio Listened to podcasts and books while driving Lived below means to save up Made offers on 10 properties in single weekend How Pete achieved financial freedom $10K/month rental income covers living expenses Goal to hit $20K/month by 2023 Pete’s insight on living below your means Pay self salary as business owner and live on that Maintain modest lifestyle even now How Pete and his wife got on the same page She supports his big dreams Prioritize time with family over expensive things Pete’s future goals when it comes to real estate Use to create generational wealth Hold existing properties for passive income How real estate differs from Pete’s other small businesses Painting and pest control = active Real estate = passive and easier to scale Pete’s advice for aspiring real estate investors Get clear on 5-year goal Focus on goal daily Connect with Pete Schnepp Pete on LinkedIn Pete on Facebook Resources Register for Michael’s Platform Builders Masterclass Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club Rich Dad Poor Dad: What the Rich Teach Their Kids About Money That the Poor and Middle Class Do Not by Robert T. Kiyosaki Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill BiggerPockets Real Estate Podcast Entrepreneurs’ Organization The Miracle Morning: The Not-So-Obvious Secret Guaranteed to Transform Your Life (Before 8AM) by Hal Elrod GoBundance The Millionaire Next Door: The Surprising Secrets of America’s Wealthy by Thomas J. Stanley and William D. Danko CASHFLOW Board Game Podcast Show Notes Michael’s Website Michael on Facebook Michael on Instagram Michael on YouTube Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group

MB278: Raising Money Through a Fund vs. Single-Asset Deals – With Joe Fairless
The vast majority of multifamily syndicators don’t stop with one property. And with each new deal, we start the stressful process of raising money all over again. But it doesn’t have to be that way! So, how does it work to raise capital for multiple deals through a fund? Joe Fairless is the Cofounder and Partner at Ashcroft Capital, a multifamily firm that invests in 200-plus-unit value-add deals. The Ashcroft team has a portfolio of 38 properties, and in February of 2021, they pivoted from raising money for individual deals to raising capital through funds. On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Joe joins me (and the attendees of Deal Maker Live) to discuss the pros and cons of raising money through a fund. He explains the benefit of being able to spread out your capital raise over time, bring on investors whenever they’re ready, and comingle money among deals. Listen in for insight on how Ashcroft structures its funds and find out if YOU’RE ready to start raising money for multifamily through a fund! Key Takeaways How Joe achieves work-life integration Systems, people in place to run business when away Blurred lines between personal/professional life How Ashcroft Capital structures its funds Class A — 10% preferred return, virtually no upside Class B — 7% pref with 70/30 split on upside The downside of raising money for funds LP gets average of all deals (miss out on lightning in bottle) GP misses out on investors who prefer individual deals Joe’s take on the advantages of raising money for funds Don’t have to land on specific equity amount for each deal Spread out capital raise over time Bring investors on whenever ready Creates consistency for investors (GP can comingle money) When you should consider raising money through a fund Acquired 5 multifamily deals At least 2 exits under belt The pros and cons of using Rule 506(c) Can advertise deal publicly but accredited investors only Don’t have to document preexisting relationship Why Joe’s fund raises money for both class A and B properties 20% of investors class A, 80% of investors class B Class A shares upside over 10% for less risk Connect with Joe Fairless Ashcroft Capital Resources Learn About Michael’s Mentoring Program Access the Recordings from Deal Maker Live Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club Tony Robbins on Work-Life Integration Rule 506(c) Rule 506(b) Podcast Show Notes Michael’s Website Michael on Facebook Michael on Instagram Michael on YouTube Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group

MB277: Why Focus on Multifamily Operations? – With Ashley Wilson
In the short term, multifamily investors can have success simply playing the appreciation game. But if you want to build a multifamily portfolio that survives and thrives for the long term, you have to make operations a priority. Ashley Wilson is the cofounder of Bar Down Investments and the bestselling author of The Only Woman in the Room: Knowledge and Inspiration from 20 Women Real Estate Investors. Ashley has been involved in $60M-plus in real estate transactions in the last 12 years, and she leads asset and construction management for her own multifamily investments. On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Ashley joins cohost Garrett Lynch and me to explain why it’s essential for syndicators to focus on operations. Ashley shares her take on the lack of women in real estate, offering advice on how to increase the number of women investors and influencers in the space. Listen in for Ashley’s insight on the #1 skill you need to be a successful investor and find out how to marry asset and construction management to maximize the value of YOUR multifamily portfolio! Key Takeaways What lights Ashley up about multifamily real estate Finding best way to maximize value of property Operations (how tenants think, market shifts, etc.) How Ashley’s real estate strategy has evolved over time Hands-off house hacking, STRs while working full-time Shift to high-end flips after retired from pharmaceuticals Desire to work smarter not harder led to multifamily Why multifamily is the holy grail for Ashley’s needs Obvious tax advantages, hedge against inflation Market demand (need due to housing shortage) Why syndicators need to focus on operations Can’t succeed long-term by way of appreciation alone Learn through management of difficult properties 100% collections on all properties throughout COVID The benefit of marrying asset and construction management Exploit market demands, minimize loss-to-lease Build up right tenants = easier to operate long term What inspired Ashley to write The Only Woman in the Room Just 14 women out of 450 investors at MidAtlantic Summit Highlight stories, provide role models for next generation Ashley’s take on the lack of women in the real estate business Women not encouraged to pursue STEM fields until now Math and finance necessary foundation for investing Why determination is the #1 skill of a successful investor Overrides fear of asking questions and taking risks Seek out knowledge, push through self-doubt How to increase the number of women investors and influencers Provide opportunities to speak at events based on merit Best way to be introduced = have someone introduce you Ashley’s advice to aspiring women real estate investors Start building relationships (net worth = network) Exploit free platforms to learn fundamentals Connect with Ashley Wilson Bar Down Investments Ashley on Instagram Ashley on BiggerPockets Resources Access the Recordings from Deal Maker Live Register for Michael’s Platform Builders Masterclass Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club The Only Woman in the Room: Knowledge and Inspiration from 20 Women Real Estate Investors compiled by Ashley Wilson MidAtlantic Summit The Real Estate InvestHER Community Investor Girl Britt Podcast Show Notes Michael’s Website Michael on Facebook Michael on Instagram Michael on YouTube Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group

MB276: Add a Zero to Your Next Capital Raise – With Jonathan Barr
So, you want to go for bigger deals, but your current network is pretty much tapped out. Maybe you struggled to raise $500K for your last deal, and you’d like to add a zero for the next one. How do you attract new investors and scale your capital raise? Jonathan Barr is the Cofounder and Principal at JB2 Investments, a real estate investment firm specializing in 70-plus-unit value-add projects in high cashflow, landlord-friendly markets. Jonathan began his real estate career in 2009, facilitating the acquisition of 400 residential flips in the LA market that generated $22M in profit for his family’s business. On this episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, Jonathan joins me to explain what inspired him to invest outside the LA market, sharing the mental blocks he had to overcome to buy properties in the Midwest. Jonathan walks us through his first multifamily deal in Oklahoma City, discussing why he had a hard time raising money for it and how he built an online platform to solve that problem. Listen in for Jonathan’s insight on using Twitter to attract new investors and learn how to scale YOUR ability to raise capital through content creation! Key Takeaways How Jonathan got involved in real estate Grew up in real estate family in LA Join flip, development business The pros and cons of working in a family business Feel ultimate support and trust Hierarchy of parent-child relationship What Jonathan learned in SFH acquisitions that translates to multifamily Conduct due diligence, use checklists to mitigate mistakes Discuss deals with team and bounce ideas What inspired Jonathan to invest outside the LA market Buy-and-hold duplexes in LA only making 3% in equity Potential to triple cashflow by moving money to KC Jonathan’s mental block around investing out of the LA market Unable to drive to properties and manage himself Hard to feel comfortable delegating responsibility Why Jonathan made the shift to multifamily Margins on flips low, always chasing next deal Apartment buildings much more tax efficient Why Jonathan joined our mentoring program last year Left family business in January 2020 Used to having parents as mentors Jonathan’s first multifamily deal Closed on 72-unit property in OKC in September Cut expenses by 25%, beating projections by 30% Why Jonathan had a hard time raising money for his first deal First deal in OKC market (no track record there) Uncertainty of pandemic How Jonathan built an online platform to raise capital Offer free eBook to build email list Post content daily on Twitter Jonathan’s take on why content creation is so important Gives potential investors insight into business Shows thoughtful and thorough, builds trust Jonathan’s insight on how to create content Get ideas from questions you get, other podcasts Block off time to write multiple posts at once Jonathan’s advice for syndicators who are tapped out on capital Post video or blog every week Focus energy on single social platform Connect with Jonathan Barr JB2 Investments JB2 on Facebook Jonathan on Twitter Jonathan on LinkedIn Resources Register for Michael’s Platform Builders Masterclass Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program Enter the Financial Freedom Podcast Launch Contest The Tax Stack Strategy: The Magic of Paying Less Tax Using Real Estate by Jonathan Barr Upwork Podcast Show Notes Michael’s Website Michael on Facebook Michael on Instagram Michael on YouTube Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group

MB 275: Is This the End of the Apartment Building Investing Podcast?
In nearly 300 episodes of the Apartment Building Investing podcast, I’ve talked to big names in real estate like Robert Kiyosaki, Brandon Turner and Grant Cardone. I’ve also had conversations with countless men and women you may not have heard of who achieved financial freedom through multifamily syndications. And now, Apartment Building Investing is coming to an end. But only because we’re celebrating a new beginning and rebranding the show as Financial Freedom with Real Estate! On this episode, I explain how Financial Freedom with Real Estate more accurately reflects our mission here at The Michael Blank Organization. I explain what makes investing in apartments better than single family homes, sharing examples of people we’ve empowered to quit their jobs and live a life of purpose through multifamily investing. Listen in for insight on the benefits of our Deal Maker Certification training and find out how to WIN the course in our Financial Freedom Podcast Launch Contest! Key Takeaways Why we’re renaming the podcast Financial Freedom with Real Estate Accurately communicates mission of organization Reach more people thinking about investing Why apartments are superior to investing in single family homes Performs better in down markets More consistent returns Pay self acquisition fees as syndicator Secure non-recourse debt Control value of property Achieve financial freedom in 2 years How financial freedom empowers people to live a life of purpose Realize you’re here for something bigger than yourself Sets you up to make impact, become difference-maker What you learn from our Deal Maker Certification training Proven system to achieve financial freedom with multifamily Process for doing first deal, quitting job and scaling portfolio Resources Enter to Win the Financial Freedom Podcast Launch Contest Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank Explore Michael’s Deal Maker Certification Training Learn More About Michael’s Mentoring Program Financial Freedom Hall of Fame Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert T. Kiyosaki Podcast Show Notes Michael’s Website Michael on Facebook Michael on Instagram Michael on YouTube Apartment Investor Network Facebook Group