Land Academy Show

Will real estate investment as we know it even exist in the age of AI? Buckle up, because Steven Jack Butala and Jill DeWit are diving headfirst into that very question! Hot off their monthly mastermind call with their Career Path alumni, they’re tackling the elephant in the room: how is artificial intelligence already shaking up the real estate game, and where is it headed? This isn't just theory, folks. They're also unpacking a listener's burning question about whether real estate can even be considered "scalable" (hint: Steven has some very specific thoughts on that!) and what it really means to design a business that gives you freedom. Get ready for a lively debate, a few tangents, and some seriously insightful takes on navigating the wild, ever-changing world of real estate in the age of AI. If you're wondering how to stay ahead of the curve and keep your investments thriving, this is one episode you absolutely cannot miss!

Ever wonder what separates the Land Academy members who talk about success from the ones who make it happen? In today’s episode of The Land Academy Show, Steven Jack Butala and Jill DeWit share the powerful real-life transformations happening behind the scenes—straight from recent consulting calls with ambitious Land Academy members. You’ll hear stories of brand-new investors taking fast, focused action… seasoned pros making bold pivots to scale faster… and partners learning to streamline and delegate their way to $100K months. From spreadsheets to seller financing struggles, to 4am Zoom calls and website makeovers—this episode is packed with practical takeaways, inspiring wins, and a reminder that the right support can change everything. Whether you're just getting started or ready to level up, this one’s for you.

Ever dreamed of sipping coffee while the deals roll in—and someone else answers the phone? In this episode of The Land Academy Show, Steven Jack Butala and Jill DeWit get real (and hilarious) about the parts of your land business you shouldn’t be doing yourself. From hiring call services to writing your own “You’re fired!” letter for a qualifying life event (true story), they share smart strategies for outsourcing like a pro—so you can take that camping trip without losing momentum. Tune in to hear the outsourcing move that changed everything for Steven, Jill’s laugh-out-loud solution to getting health insurance, and a candid look at how to actually create freedom in your business. Whether you’re just starting out or scaling fast, this one’s packed with practical advice, a bit of philosophy, and the usual Land Academy wit.

When land values are dropping fast, how do you still come out on top? In today’s episode of The Land Academy Show, Steven Jack Butala and Jill DeWit tackle the tough truth about a declining real estate market—and show you how to not just survive, but thrive. With four recessions under his belt, Steven reveals proven strategies for buying land way below market value, even when the market’s in free fall. Plus, they dig into a hot question from the Land Academy community: What do you do when a deal hits a snag due to a private road access issue? You’ll hear expert insights, personal stories, and real-world advice on how to create value, overcome title troubles, and turn a tricky parcel into a profitable win. If you're buying land in a shifting market, this is the episode you can’t afford to miss. Press play and learn how to make smart moves when the market gets shaky.

In a world saturated with online communities, how do you discern the groups that genuinely elevate you? Today on The Land Academy Show, Steven Jack Butala and Jill DeWit delve into the critical art of choosing internet groups that foster personal growth, sparked by their deep-dive with Land Academy members. From navigating the complexities of land valuation in large zip codes to the broader quest for meaningful online connection, this episode challenges you to reconsider the value of your digital circles. Are you learning, growing, or simply scrolling? Tune in to find out.

Recession should never be seen as the lowest point of the real estate market. In fact, it is probably the best time to buy or invest in properties. Steven Jack Butala and Jill DeWit discuss why you should not panic during such a market condition and instead take advantage of it to make a considerable profit.

In the wild world of land investing, consistency beats talent every single time, and in this episode, Steven Jack Butala and Jill DeWit dive deep into why showing up and putting in the work is the true secret sauce to success. Forget natural-born genius; it's all about the daily grind, the willingness to learn from failures, and the sheer grit to stick with it. Steven and Jill share personal anecdotes, discuss a listener's intriguing offer dilemma, and unpack how "gross overachievers" aren't necessarily the smartest, but they sure are the most consistent. Tune in to discover how to apply this philosophy to your own land investing journey and why, in the end, it's the relentless effort, not innate talent, that leads to real, lasting results.

Thinking about getting into land investing? It's not as simple as it seems! In this episode, Steven Jack Butala and Jill DeWit are laying down the truth about who is really cut out for this business. They dive deep into why just wanting to make money isn't enough. Steven and Jill break down the essential entrepreneurial spirit, the mental toughness required, and why a solid, detailed process is non-negotiable for success. They share real-life examples and cut through the misconceptions, revealing that buying and selling land successfully demands a unique mix of strategy and resilience. If you're considering this path, you need to hear this candid discussion and assess if you truly have what it takes. Join Steven and Jill as they provide a reality check on what it really means to thrive in the world of land deals.

There are some mistakes you could make when selecting a county for mailers. What are they and how to avoid them? Steven Jack Butala and Jill DeWit are here to discuss how you should do this particular task with proper planning and research to steer clear of making poor decisions. They also talk about the benefits of getting access to inside information and the importance of taking a data-driven approach when handling real estate deals.

Ever feel like there's more going on in your land seller conversations than what’s actually being said? In this episode of The Land Academy Show, Steven Jack Butala and Jill DeWit dive into the subtle art of reading between the lines when talking to sellers—because the real story is often hidden in what isn’t said out loud. From decoding seller motivations to avoiding common Florida land pitfalls, you’ll get sharp insights and a few laughs as they navigate everything from floodplains to relationship jokes. Welcome to episode 2,169—where common sense meets real estate strategy!

Ever wonder why some land investors seem to glide through deals while others are constantly firefighting? Steven Jack Butala and Jill DeWit crack the code: it's all in the daily routine. But forget rigid schedules; this episode dives into the why behind a structured day, revealing how it's not just about tasks, but about aligning your business with your life's purpose. Get ready to ditch the overwhelm as Jack and Jill share their hard-earned wisdom on building a daily rhythm that fuels both your land ventures and your personal well-being. This isn't just about calendars; it's about creating a sustainable, joyful, and profitable land business.

Are you ready to reclaim your time and maximize your profits in land investing? In this episode, Steven Jack Butala and Jill DeWit tackle the biggest land investing time-wasters that can sabotage your success. Discover the common pitfalls that drain your productivity and learn actionable strategies to streamline your processes. From the beginning to the end of your deals, we'll pinpoint where time leaks occur and how to plug them. Stop spinning your wheels and start achieving real results by focusing on what truly moves the needle.

Do you know the number one mistake that could be costing you real estate deals? This episode dives into the critical skill of handling seller calls. Steven Jack Butala and Jill DeWit reveal the most common pitfalls investors make and provide actionable strategies to transform your approach. Learn how to build rapport, ask the right questions, and position yourself for successful negotiations. Stop losing out on opportunities and start closing more deals by mastering the art of the seller call.

Steven Jack Butala and Jill DeWit share an update on the real estate market for Q2 2025. Sharing personal experiences and business advice, they discuss how to navigate interest rates, market dynamics, and property price increases. They also reveal where and what to buy during this year’s second quarter.

Steven Jack Butala and Jill DeWit share valuable strategies on how to target land sellers who are most likely to sell below market value. They discuss the importance of embracing a data-centric approach, targeting specific markets with high demand, and sending out offers to property owners.

Is "passive income" in land deals a myth? Steven Jack Butala and Jill DeWit tackle that question head-on, diving into the realities of generating wealth through land investing. Together, they debunk the idea of truly passive income in this industry, while revealing the powerful potential of scaling land deals. Tune in as Jack and Jill explore how achieving millionaire status is possible with a strategic approach and a focus on completing 10-15 deals per year.

Ever wonder what land investing success looks like when it's seasoned with three decades of experience? Buckle up, because this episode is a goldmine. We sit down with Steve Hodgdon, a Land Academy member whose career spans an incredible 30 years in the land game. This isn't just a history lesson; it's a deep dive into the strategies, the hard-won wisdom, and the evolution of an industry, all shared by someone who's lived it. Get ready for a dose of inspiration and actionable takeaways on how to build lasting land investing success.

Dreaming of location freedom and a flexible work life? In this episode, Steven Jack Butala and Jill DeWit dive into building a thriving land investment business that allows for a 4-hour work week, even while traveling. They share their strategies and insights on creating a system that minimizes time commitment while maximizing returns in the land investment market. Learn how to automate processes, leverage technology, and structure deals to achieve both financial success and the freedom to work from anywhere.

Securing a life-long fortune is not an impossible task in land investing. You just need to do the hard work consistently. Steven Jack Butala and Jill DeWit explain how to maintain a regular mailer schedule and navigate endless changes in interest rates. They break down Land Academy’s Bucket System and how it categorizes land deals based on acquisition criteria, potential profit, and strategy. Jack and Jill also share how they work effectively as business partners by staying on each other’s lane and setting clear responsibilities.

Land business success is more than simply knowing the best locations, the most profitable properties, and the right clients to close deals with. It also requires discipline, consistency, and commitment to do the hard work. Steven Jack Butala sits down with Land Academy Ambassador Karl who exemplifies all of these characteristics. He shares how his entrepreneurial background in construction helps him win big in real estate, which mainly focuses on maintaining a rhythm in every step of the business process. Karl also opens up about what it is like to work in land business with his wife Samantha and looks back on the first deals they closed as a duo.

If you're feeling stuck or unsure about your path to success, it's time for a mindset shift. Today, Steven Jack Butala and Jill DeWit dive into the mindset shift you need to succeed in land investing. It's the perfect topic to wrap up the week, as mindset plays such a crucial role in success, not just in land investing but in any professional endeavor. As Jack and Jill share, it's about believing in the process and overcoming obstacles with determination. In this episode, they discuss how getting out of your own way and trusting the system can make all the difference. Dive into this episode and let Jack and Jill rewire your brain for success!

In a slower land market, smart investors know that adaptability is the key to success. In this episode, Steven Jack Butala and Jill DeWit dive into a crucial topic for land investors: how to stay profitable in a slower land market. With the market shifting and more properties available than ever, they share their insights on navigating these changes, making smart acquisitions, and ensuring profitability despite the challenges. Drawing from years of experience, including multiple market cycles, Jack and Jill break down the strategies that work and the key mistakes to avoid. Ready to learn the rhythm of a slower market and dance your way to success? Let’s jump in and make those smart moves!

The landscape of business is ever-evolving, and the land industry is no exception. In this episode, Steven Jack Butala and Jill DeWit discuss how they would approach building a land business from scratch if they were starting in 2025. They delve into the strategies, tools, and mindset necessary to thrive in the future of land investing. Join Jack and Jill as they share their insights on outsourcing, adaptation, and leveraging current trends to create a successful land business.

Success in land investing hinges on more than just finding deals; it requires a strong foundation of effective business habits. In this episode, Steven Jack Butala and Jill DeWit discuss the single best business habit for land investors that can truly make a difference. They share insights on developing and improving your land business. Jill and Jack then answer a question from the Land Academy member Discord forum who asks how they got over focusing on just getting the first deal done versus all the other organizational stuff needed.

The journey of an entrepreneur is paved with challenges, successes, and invaluable lessons learned along the way. In this episode, Steven Jack Butala and Jill DeWit reflect on their experiences from over 16,000 transactions, delving into the crucial elements of an entrepreneurial mindset. They share insights on why cultivating the right mindset, embracing change, and understanding the competitive landscape are just as important as the technical skills of any business. Join Jack and Jill as they discuss what they wish they had known sooner and how these lessons shaped their path.

Let's cut to the chase. You're wondering, “What’s the catch to the Land Academy Education Program?” In episode 2153, Steven Jack Butala and Jill DeWit are laying it all out. They're not hiding behind jargon. They're talking real numbers, real strategies, and real support. They're showing you how their program is built for success, and here's the truth: they're not just happy with your enrollment. They want your results. Want the unfiltered truth? This episode is it!

Welcome to episode 2152, where Steven Jack Butala and Jill DeWit pull back the curtain on the hidden costs of land investing—and more importantly, how to avoid them. If you think buying land for $50K and selling it for $100K means a clean $50K profit, think again. Tune in as they dive into fixed vs. variable costs, why keeping overhead low is your secret weapon, and how smart investors bake every expense into their deals. Plus, they tackle a question from Ben about setting realistic profit margins and quitting your day job for full-time land investing. Don’t miss this one—it’s all about keeping more money in your pocket! 

Should you partner up or go solo in your land business? In this episode, Steven Jack Butala and Jill DeWit dive into the pros and cons of partnering in land investing. Jack shares how teaming up with Jill skyrocketed their business, turning stagnant inventory into sold properties almost overnight. They discuss the value of complementary skill sets, how partnerships can accelerate success, and why the wrong partner can drag you down. Whether you’re just starting out and need funding or considering a long-term collaborator, this conversation will help you decide the best path for your business growth.

Building a sustainable land business takes more than just knowing how to buy and sell property — it takes resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to evolve. In this episode of The Land Academy Show, Steven Jack Butala and Jill DeWit share their insights from 30+ years in the industry, revealing what it really takes to weather market changes and keep your business thriving long-term. They break down why some land investors burn out, how to pivot when strategies stop working, and why your mindset is just as important as your mailing strategy. Whether you’re facing competition, market shifts, or just a rough year, this episode is packed with hard-won wisdom to help you stay the course and keep building wealth.

There are different real estate models you could put your money into, but land investing is arguably much simpler than the rest. Steven Jack Butala and Jill DeWit present their own strategy for this – and this is as simple as it can get.

Going from side hustle to full-time land investing takes more than just motivation—it requires the right mindset, strategy, and resilience. Steven Jack Butala and Jill DeWit dive into the realities of transitioning from part-time investing to making land flipping a full-time career. They share insights on overcoming setbacks, understanding personal strengths, and making smart decisions to sustain long-term success. Is land investing the right path for you? Tune in as they break down the process, common challenges, and key steps to building a thriving land business.

Staying motivated can be tough when you are not seeing that much results in your real estate deals. But staying the course is what separates successful investors from those who give up too soon. Steven Jack Butala and Jill DeWit break down how to keep pushing forward with your deals even when things are not moving as fast as you like. Tune in as they share valuable insights on shaping the right mindset, dealing with setbacks, and finding motivation in even the smallest wins. 

Most new land investors make the same critical mistakes and they do not even realize it. Steven Jack Butala and Jill K DeWit break down the most common mistakes in land investing that could waste a huge amount of time, money, and resources. From poor mailer strategies to overanalyzing data, they reveal the biggest pitfalls and how to avoid them. They also discuss why mindset, confidence, and follow-through matter just as much as real estate knowledge.

Ever wondered why someone would sell land at rock-bottom prices? Steven Jack Butala and Jill DeWit crack the code as they dive deep into the biggest reasons why sellers do this. Together, they discuss how to spot golden opportunities hidden in plain sight and turn seller desperation into your next big win. Do not miss out on your chance to capitalize on this unique market moment!

Think you can skip due diligence in the land market? Think again! Mastering due diligence is non-negotiable for success. Join Steven Jack Butala and Jill DeWit as they dissect the 8 A’s of real estate due diligence. Stop throwing darts in the dark! Time to conduct meticulous due diligence and make acquisitions that shatter your expectations.

The world of land investing can be a rollercoaster of emotions, and sometimes, panic sets in. In this Jill Friday episode, Steven Jack Butala and Jill DeWit revisit a classic episode featuring Jill’s personal experience with a land mailer panic. They discuss the common triggers for panic, the emotional and financial consequences, and the strategies for staying calm and focused in the face of unexpected challenges. Discover how to avoid land mailer panic, make rational decisions, and navigate the ups and downs of land investing with confidence.

Ready to kickstart your land business but unsure where to begin? In this episode of the The Land Academy Show, Steven Jack Butala and Jill DeWit break down the five essential phases of building your real estate empire — starting with mastering the basics of your land business. From pricing strategies to streamlining operations, they share decades of experience buying and selling land since the '90s. Whether you're stuck on choosing a business name, navigating comps, or putting your deals on autopilot, this is the perfect first step to build a profitable and sustainable land business. Tune in now and take that all-important first step!

Surviving a real estate recession isn’t just about weathering the storm — it's about learning how to thrive through it. In this episode of The Land Academy Show, seasoned land investors Steven Jack Butala and Jill DeWit share their raw, unfiltered story of facing a real estate downturn without a property acquisition pipeline — and the tough lessons they learned along the way. With a looming recession on the horizon, they reveal practical strategies you can use right now to protect your investments, spot hidden opportunities, and avoid the mistakes they made. If you're ready to navigate uncertain markets and come out ahead, this is the episode for you. Let’s dive in! 

The real estate market is constantly in flux, and savvy investors know how to adapt their strategies to capitalize on emerging opportunities. In this episode, Steven Jack Butala and Jill DeWit explore the potential of infill lots as a smart investment in a down market. They discuss the unique characteristics of infill lots, their potential for development, and the key factors to consider when evaluating these properties. Discover how to identify profitable infill lot opportunities, navigate zoning regulations, and maximize returns in this niche market.

Steven Jack Butala and Jill DeWit talk about adding value to a land deal through minor splitting or land subdivision. They discuss various misinformation surrounding this strategy and how this process may change depending on local regulations.

Making smart land investment decisions means relying on data, not just gut feelings. Yet, many investors still make choices based on emotions—often with costly results. On this episode of The Land Academy Show, Steven Jack Butala and Jill K DeWit break down why data-driven strategies lead to better deals, higher profits, and fewer regrets. From historical trends to pricing analytics, they discuss how numbers tell the real story behind land investments. Whether you're new to buying and reselling land or looking to refine your approach, this conversation will help you make more confident and profitable decisions.

Picking the right county for land mailers can make or break a real estate deal. Some areas are goldmines, while others are oversaturated with offers. In this episode of The Land Academy Show, Steven Jack Butala and Jill K DeWit break down what makes a great county for land investing—and what doesn’t. They share insights on data-driven decision-making, the impact of local regulations, and how to navigate competitive markets like Tennessee and North Carolina. Whether you're a seasoned investor or sending your first mailer, this discussion will help you refine your strategy and find profitable opportunities. Tune in and learn how to identify the best markets for your next land deal!

Want to streamline your land deals and boost efficiency? In this episode of The Land Academy Show, Steven Jack Butala and Jill K DeWit dive into how the Land Academy CRM simplifies deal management, automates workflows, and keeps your business organized. Whether you're handling five or 5,000 deals a year, this tool is designed to scale with you. Stay tuned as we break down how to maximize its potential for your land investment success!

Accountability groups play a crucial role in accelerating success, especially when scaling a land business. Steven Jack Butala and Jill DeWit reveal how these groups fuel success, defining scaling and repeatability while emphasizing the power of community and peer pressure. Plus, they tackle a listener's question about using GPS data to find zip codes for vacant land, emphasizing the common challenge of missing or inaccurate address information. Take your land business to the next level! Join our community and start scaling faster!

What sets successful land investors apart from the rest? In this episode, Steven Jack Butala and Jill DeWit delve into the key habits, strategies, and mindsets that contribute to success in the world of land investing. They discuss the importance of data-driven decision making, market research, and due diligence, along with the essential skills of negotiation, communication, and risk management. Discover how successful land investors approach property acquisition, financing, and development, and learn how to implement these strategies to achieve your own land investing goals. 

Are you stuck in analysis paralysis? When does research cross the line from smart due diligence to an excuse for inaction? In this episode, Steven Jack Butala and Jill DeWit dive into how overanalyzing land deals can keep you from ever hitting "send" on your mailer—or worse, missing out on a great opportunity. They break down the biggest bottlenecks, the mindset traps that hold investors back, and the proven systems to make confident, fast decisions. If you’re drowning in data but still not pulling the trigger, this episode is for you!

You cannot land and close a successful land investing deal without doing ample research. It is the backbone of such transactions and the key to much bigger opportunities. Steven Jack Butala and Jill DeWit discuss how to do your research correctly to secure the best outcomes and mitigate the risks in your land investing deals.

The world of land investing is rapidly evolving, and technology is at the forefront of this transformation. This episode explores how technology is changing the future of land investing, providing valuable insights for both seasoned investors and newcomers. Join Steven Jack Butala and Jill K DeWit as they discuss the latest technological advancements that are revolutionizing the way land is bought, sold, and managed. Discover the power of digital platforms, data analytics, and automation in streamlining processes, improving decision-making, and maximizing returns. Learn how to embrace technology to gain a competitive edge and thrive in the ever-changing landscape of land investing.

Is land investing more of a science or an art? In this episode, Steven Jack Butala and Jill DeWit dive into the balance between data and instinct in land investing, revealing why both are essential for making smart, profitable decisions. Learn how to use data-driven strategies while trusting your gut to navigate deals, negotiate with sellers, and choose the right markets. Whether you’re a numbers-driven investor or rely on intuition, this episode will help you refine your approach and close better deals. Tune in now

Ever wonder how seasoned land investors choose the perfect county to send mail? It all starts with the red-yellow-green test—a data-driven approach that takes the guesswork out of land investing. In this episode, Steven Jack Butala and Jill DeWit break down the science behind this powerful tool, explaining how it helps pinpoint high-demand areas, avoid slow-moving markets, and maximize returns. If you're tired of throwing darts at a map and hoping for the best, this is the episode for you. Tune in and learn how to use data to make smarter investment decisions!