Podcast
Multifamily Insights
Hosted by John Casmon · EN
Each week, John Casmon speaks with real estate pros and marketing specialists to provide useful tips for multifamily investing. Listen and learn insights for market research, finding deals, attracting capital, and growing your portfolio.
32episodes
Episodes
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The Hidden Systems Every Multifamily Operator Needs to Scale with Spencer Vickers, Ep. 792
2w ago00:29:25Tap to summarizeSpencer Vickers began his career at Invesco Real Estate, working across industrial, retail, and multifamily assets on their U.S. platform. He then moved into healthcare real estate acquisitions and development for a group in Dallas before serving as senior analyst at D.R. Horton's multifamily platform in Central Florida. In June 2024, Spencer founded The Fractional Analyst to give independent syndicators and fund managers access to institutional-grade back office support, deal analysis, and investor reporting systems without the overhead of a full-time hire. His team serves clients ranging from individual operators to groups with up to $2 billion in assets under management. Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here. Key Takeaways Build back office systems before you need them Use financial modeling to tell a clear deal story, not just present numbers Analyze new supply and absorption trends alongside any target acquisition Source market data from county permits, active brokers, and AI tools Avoid assuming that what got you to your current level will carry you to the next Topics The Institutional Gap in Real Estate Large operators have dedicated analyst, transaction, and debt teams that most independent operators cannot afford The Fractional Analyst fills that gap by building back office systems, financial models, and investor relations infrastructure for smaller operators What Back Office Support Actually Covers Back office work includes lender reporting, investor distributions, subscription documents, and K-1 management Platforms like Cash Flow Portal and Juniper Square automate much of this, but still require setup, data validation, and ongoing upkeep Financial Modeling and Deal Presentation Many models lack formatting, clarity, and readability, making them difficult to audit or present Spencer's team cleans up models and builds pitch decks that make the deal story easy to communicate to lenders and investors Underwriting With Market Context New supply and absorption trends must be analyzed alongside any target acquisition to properly frame risk A 97% occupied deal can still carry significant risk if thousands of competing units are coming online in the same submarket Finding Market Data County permit records reveal planned new construction in any given area Active local brokers typically already have this data and are motivated to share it AI tools are increasingly useful for pulling and presenting market data, but all outputs require verification before use Who Is a Good Fit for The Fractional Analyst Ideal clients have $50M to $250M in assets under management and are actively looking to scale Operators who are not yet acquiring deals or are unwilling to do the required work are not a strong match Scaling From Syndications to Funds Spencer's team reviewed fund formation documents for a client with over 300 individual syndications preparing to launch his first fund They flagged legal risk items so the client could address them directly with his attorney 📢 Announcement: Learn about our Apartment Investing Mastermind here. Round of Insights Failure that set Spencer up for success: Working with clients who were not willing to take the steps required to grow, including building broker relationships and getting into the details of the business. Digital or mobile resource: CoreCast. Book recommendation: The Richest Man in Babylon by George S Clason. Daily habit: Prayer and regular scripture study. Number one insight for scaling multifamily acquisitions: Build the right network first. Get brokers, property managers, lenders, investors, attorneys, and CPAs in your corner in your target markets. Then build a solid back office, but do not let the setup process become an obstacle to getting in the game. Favorite restaurant in Orlando, FL: Burger Fi. Next Steps Learn more about Spencer Vickers and The Fractional Analyst at thefractionalanalyst.com Follow The Fractional Analyst on LinkedIn for deal analysis tips and real estate education Review whether your back office systems are built to support your next stage of growth Audit your financial models for clarity, professional formatting, and whether they clearly convey the deal story Identify the key brokers, lenders, and operators active in your target markets and start building those relationships Thank you for joining us for another great episode! If you're enjoying the show, please LEAVE A RATING OR REVIEW, and be sure to hit that subscribe button so you don't miss an episode.
Transcribe →You're Not Ready And That's Exactly Why You Should Start Raising Capital, Ep. 791
3w ago00:14:05Tap to summarizeThis week, learn why waiting until you feel ready to raise capital is the exact mindset keeping you on the sideline. John Casmon makes the case that you will never feel fully ready, and that confidence comes from preparation. In this episode, John breaks down three practical steps to start raising capital today: building your reps, assembling the right team, and shifting your focus from yourself to the people you are trying to serve. Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here. Key Takeaways Confidence comes from preparation. Act first, and the feeling of readiness develops from there Analyze deals, talk to people in the marketplace, and find mentors or coaches to build your reps Build a team that offsets your experience gaps so you do not have to be the expert on everything yourself Overcome imposter syndrome by being resourceful and knowing where to find solutions Raise capital when you are not under pressure, before you have a live deal or after you have already closed Shift your focus from your own fear of rejection to educating and serving potential investors Topics Why Waiting Until You're Ready Is a Mistake John opens by challenging the belief that you need more experience before raising capital He argues directly that you are never going to feel ready, and that continuing to wait only delays progress The gap is rooted in preparation and reps, and those are things you can act on today Building Confidence Through Reps Confidence comes from putting in the work: analyzing deals, talking to people in the marketplace, and working with mentors or coaches John uses an NFL draft analogy: rookies have never played a professional game, but they draw on their football experience and translate it to the next level Transferable skills count. Experience managing a budget, running a business, or investing in smaller residential properties can all translate meaningfully to multifamily The benchmark is doing enough preparation that you know what you are talking about, and you can build toward that starting today Aligning Yourself with the Right Team Whatever you lack in experience, offset it with team members who have it: property managers, partners, analysts, brokers, coaches John revisits the rookie analogy: no team drafts a first-year player and hands them the franchise. They pair them with veterans who complement their skill set Building a credible, well-rounded team is how you present a compelling picture to potential investors regardless of where you are in your career Coaching and mentoring adds direct value here. Having experienced people on your side removes the pressure of carrying all the expertise yourself Overcoming Imposter Syndrome Imposter syndrome is rooted in being too focused on yourself: your gaps, your fears, and your ego Investors want you to know more than they do and to be resourceful enough to find solutions. That is the standard, and it is achievable John shares a personal story: a former colleague unsubscribed from his investor newsletter early in his capital-raising journey, and he initially took it personally He later recognized the real lesson. He had not conveyed the right message to the right audience. The feedback was about positioning, and it had nothing to do with him personally The practical response to imposter syndrome is sharing your journey openly, letting people learn about you over time, and focusing on being of service Raising Capital When You Don't Need the Money The best time to raise capital is when there is no live deal pressure, either before you have identified a deal or after you have already closed and can share openly what you are working through When you are communicating without a funding deadline looming, you come across with authentic confidence Pressure is detectable. Potential investors will sense desperation, and it undermines trust The goal is to present opportunities and let people decide if it is the right fit Shifting Focus from Yourself to Serving Others John frames the entire challenge of capital raising as a mindset problem. You are too focused on your own feelings and your own fear of rejection When someone does not invest, it is rarely personal. It is usually a messaging or fit issue, and it is feedback worth learning from Your job is to get in front of the right people with the right message and the right opportunity. Finding those people is where your energy belongs When you focus on how you can serve and educate potential investors, the conversation changes entirely 📢 Announcement: Learn about our Apartment Investing Mastermind here. Next Steps Start building your reps today: analyze deals, talk to people in the marketplace, and identify a mentor or coach who can accelerate your learning Audit your current team and identify the experience gaps you need to offset with the right partners, managers, or advisors Begin sharing your investing journey openly so potential investors can learn about you before you have a live deal requiring a funding decision Practice presenting investment opportunities in a calm, low-pressure way so the conversation becomes natural before the stakes are high Reframe rejection and disengagement as messaging feedback, and use it to sharpen how you communicate Explore the Multifamily Mastermind and request more details here Thank you for joining us for another great episode! If you're enjoying the show, please LEAVE A RATING OR REVIEW, and be sure to hit that subscribe button so you don't miss an episode.
Transcribe →He Quit Rentals After 3 Houses—Here's What He Did Instead, Ep. 790 with Will Harvey
4w ago00:31:32Tap to summarizeWill Harvey began his real estate career in 2015 as a residential loan officer before transitioning into direct real estate investing. After building a small portfolio of rental houses, he moved toward multifamily investing as both a limited partner and general partner, eventually focusing more on the finance, capital allocation, and deal analysis side of the business. Today, Will leads Harvey Capital and invests across opportunities where he can evaluate risk, structure capital, and identify value. Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here. Key Takeaways Pivot when your investing strategy no longer fits your strengths or goals Use scale to remove yourself from day-to-day tenant management Look for deals with multiple exit options, especially in build-to-rent communities Stay open to overlooked real estate opportunities in both private and public markets Focus on asset classes and strategies that match your skill set, not just what others are doing Topics From Loan Officer to Real Estate Investor Will started in the mortgage business after leaving college and built a strong W-2 income He realized he was earning money but not building long-term wealth Why Will Moved Beyond Single-Family Rentals Will built a small portfolio of three houses in Northern Virginia He realized he did not enjoy dealing directly with tenants Multifamily appealed to him because scale allows investors to hire strong property managers and systems Learning Multifamily Through Podcasts and Relationships Will spent nearly a year listening to podcasts and learning the multifamily space He connected with other investors and got involved in his first multifamily deal in 2019 Finding His Lane in Finance and Capital Allocation Will learned he preferred spreadsheets, capital structure, and finance over operations He began investing more as an LP and using income from other real estate activities to invest into multifamily Using a Friends and Family Fund Will started a small friends and family fund and invested as an LP into several deals One example was a 95-unit build-to-rent townhome community with individually parceled units and multiple exit options Build-to-Rent and Exit Optionality Will likes deals where investors can sell the full portfolio or potentially sell individual units John and Will discuss why multiple exit options can create flexibility depending on the market Finding Real Estate Opportunities in Public Markets Will explains how real estate opportunities can also exist through publicly traded companies and liquidating trusts He shares an example involving JCPenney's bankruptcy, where real estate assets were separated into a liquidating trust Why Multifamily Still Stands Out Will notes that multifamily remains one of the strongest asset classes he has invested in He points to the simple fact that people always need a place to live and sleep 📢 Announcement: Learn about our Apartment Investing Mastermind here. Round of Insights Failure that set Will up for success: Buying a property in early 2022 that fell outside his normal buy box. The plan was unclear, the deal was overpaid for, and it eventually cost about $70,000 to exit. Digital or mobile resource: Claude. Book recommendation: Berkshire Hathaway Letters to Shareholders by Warren Buffet. Daily habit: Reading the Bible in the morning to calm his mind, slow down racing thoughts, focus on the day, and keep perspective. Favorite restaurant in Richmond, VA: Cava. Next Steps Learn more about Harvey Capital here: harvey-capital.com Review where your current investing strategy no longer fits your strengths Identify whether you prefer operations, finance, capital raising, or deal analysis Study multifamily opportunities from both the GP and LP perspective Look for investments with strong downside protection and flexible exit options Stay open to overlooked real estate opportunities outside the most obvious channels Closing Call to Action Thank you for joining us for another great episode! If you're enjoying the show, please LEAVE A RATING OR REVIEW, and be sure to hit that subscribe button so you don't miss an episode.
Transcribe →Avoid These Mistakes When Hiring Property Managers, Ep. 789
Apr 2100:25:16Tap to summarizeThis week, learn why property managers can make or break your multifamily investment. John explains that once you decide to scale, you cannot do everything yourself, which means your success depends heavily on your ability to find the right property manager, understand what good management actually looks like, and stay actively involved enough to guide performance without getting buried in the day-to-day. Drawing from his own experience self-managing a two-unit building and later overseeing larger apartment assets, John breaks down the real work property managers handle, from turns and leasing to inspections, vendors, communication, and performance tracking. He also explains why many investors make the mistake of blindly trusting property managers without understanding the basics of the role themselves, and why that lack of knowledge makes it harder to vet, manage, and retain the right people. If you want to build a stronger multifamily operation, this episode gives you a practical framework for how to think about property management as a core part of the business. Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here. Key Takeaways Understand why property managers should be treated as a critical driver of investment performance, not just a service provider Learn why investors need a working knowledge of property management basics so they can vet and guide managers more effectively Match your property manager to the property type and business plan, because a strong Class A operator may not be a strong fit for a Class C asset Build a repeatable management process around KPIs, meetings, approvals, and communication loops Retain great property managers by aligning incentives, giving recognition, and thinking through how your long-term plans affect their career stability Topics Why Property Management Matters So Much John says investors cannot scale if they try to do everything themselves, and that property managers are essential to driving success across the portfolio He also notes that even experienced operators sometimes have to replace property managers because the fit, execution, or staffing changes over time What John Learned by Self-Managing Early in his investing journey, John self-managed a two-unit building with his wife, which forced him to learn the full cycle of managing a rental asset That included handling unit turns, contractor coordination, marketing, leasing, applications, compliance, and minimizing downtime between residents He argues that this experience matters because investors who have never managed property often do not know what good property management actually requires Process First, Then People John frames most operational issues as either a process problem, a people problem, or a partnership problem He emphasizes starting with process, so expectations are clear and performance is not dependent on one person's instincts or style He compares this to the consistency of a fast-food chain versus the variability that can happen when a restaurant relies too much on one chef without strong systems Finding the Right Property Manager John says the first step is knowing what kind of results you need based on the property's business plan A Class A luxury property may require a more polished, service-oriented manager, while a Class C asset may require someone with thicker skin, more hands-on oversight, and experience handling subsidy programs or tougher resident interactions He shares an example of hiring a highly respected management company for an eight-unit Class C property in Chicago, only to find that their experience with Class A/B assets did not translate well to the realities of that building What Managing Property Managers Looks Like John recommends frequent conversations, especially early on, often starting with weekly calls and sometimes more often if a property is more operationally intense Those meetings should start with key KPIs like occupancy, vacancy, move-ins, signed leases, and financial performance before drilling into maintenance tickets, projects, and operational issues He also recommends setting approval thresholds for spending and paying close attention to vendor relationships so managers are not simply hiring friends or using the wrong vendors without oversight Why Scale Can Improve Management Efficiency John notes that larger properties can actually be easier to manage at a high level because they support more dedicated staff and clearer role separation On a larger asset, the owner should be managing the manager, not solving individual resident issues directly He contrasts this with smaller properties, where owners often get dragged into too many day-to-day details because there is not enough scale to support a stronger operating structure Why Regional Managers Matter When working with a third-party management company, John likes to involve the regional manager in as many conversations as possible for alignment and transparency Without that, property managers can get caught between the owner's objectives and the management company's internal priorities, which can create conflict or misalignment How to Retain Great Property Managers John says retention starts with understanding motivations, especially compensation and growth opportunities He recommends tying incentives and bonuses to the owner's objectives and the property's KPIs rather than relying only on static compensation He also highlights the importance of praise, recognition, and regular positive feedback because property managers spend much of their day absorbing complaints and solving problems Finally, he encourages owners to think ahead about what happens to managers if a property is sold, since uncertainty about job stability can influence retention and morale 📢 Announcement: Learn about our Apartment Investing Mastermind here. Next Steps Explore the Multifamily Mastermind and request more details here. Review whether you truly understand the basics of property management well enough to evaluate your current manager's performance Match your management company or manager to the specific class, tenant profile, and business plan of the property Create a standard meeting structure built around KPIs, financials, maintenance, projects, and clear follow-up expectations Set spending thresholds, vendor standards, and communication expectations so managers know when to act and when to seek approval Build a retention plan that includes compensation alignment, recognition, and clarity around future plans for the property Thank you for joining us for another great episode! If you're enjoying the show, please LEAVE A RATING OR REVIEW, and be sure to h...
Transcribe →Why You Must First Create a Mindset and Environment for Success, Ep. 788
Apr 1400:26:23Tap to summarizeThis week, learn why many investors stay stuck not because they lack effort, but because they lack exposure to bigger strategies. John breaks down how most people are taught to think about real estate through a narrow lens, usually one single-family rental at a time, and why that approach can limit both scale and freedom. He explains how apartment syndication opens a different path, one where you can invest at scale, partner with others, and avoid being the person handling every tenant, contractor, and maintenance issue yourself. John also explains why scale changes the economics of real estate investing. Instead of relying on one property where a single repair can wipe out months of profit, larger apartment investments can support professional management, dedicated staff, and more stable operations. The episode also explores the role environment plays in growth, why many investors never reach bigger opportunities simply because they are not around people playing that game, and how the right community can shift both your mindset and your actions. If you've been taught that real estate success only comes from buying one rental at a time, this episode offers a broader lens on what is possible. Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here. Key Takeaways Understand why limited exposure can create a small investing mindset, even for people who work hard and think they are playing big Learn how apartment syndication allows investors to participate in larger deals without managing the day-to-day operations themselves Recognize why scale creates more room for professional management, operational consistency, and downside protection See why environment, community, and proximity to the right people matter just as much as strategy Reframe real estate investing as a team sport where partnership and access to capital can unlock bigger opportunities Topics Why Many Investors Stay Small John argues that many investors are not thinking too small because they lack ambition, but because they have never been exposed to better strategies He says most people only know the standard blueprint of buying one single-family rental at a time and slowly building from there A Different Path Through Apartment Syndication John introduces apartment syndication as a way to invest passively while an active team handles acquisitions, management, and execution He explains that many investors miss this option simply because they have never been exposed to it Why Scale Changes the Game John compares a single-family rental generating $2,000 in rent to a 100-unit property renting at the same level per unit His point is that scale creates enough revenue to support professional property management, landscapers, attorneys, CPAs, and other specialists, whereas small properties often force owners to do the work themselves He also explains that vacancy and repairs hit small properties much harder because there is less margin for error Why Professionalism Comes With Scale Larger apartment investments can afford dedicated teams, including property managers, maintenance staff, and leasing support John contrasts that with the solo landlord model, where one owner may be responsible for everything and is far more exposed to disruption The Role of Mindset and Community John says the biggest shift often comes from simply being around people who are already investing at a higher level He shares that early in his journey, meetups and investor groups gave him exposure to people with much larger portfolios, which expanded his sense of what was possible Why Environment Shapes Results John compares investing growth to fitness: changing outcomes often requires changing your environment, routines, and influences He emphasizes the importance of surrounding yourself with people who analyze deals, raise capital, and actively operate in multifamily, rather than relying on people whose opinions are based only on fear or secondhand stories The Importance of Partnership and Access to Capital John says one of the biggest constraints investors face is cash, and that learning to partner with others can open the door to larger opportunities He frames multifamily investing as something that becomes more realistic when investors stop thinking only in terms of what they alone can afford and start thinking about collaboration and pooled capital How John Thinks About Operating Real Estate John rejects the idea that real estate investing has to mean cutting corners or being a poor operator He says quality housing, good operations, and investing in properties and people can create better long-term outcomes for both tenants and owners 📢 Announcement: Learn about our Apartment Investing Mastermind here. Next Steps Explore the Multifamily Mastermind and request more details here. Audit the real estate strategies you've been exposed to and ask whether they are expanding or limiting your perspective Compare the economics of small rentals versus larger apartment investments so you can better understand the impact of scale Get around investors who are actively operating in multifamily so you can learn how they think, structure deals, and solve problems Reevaluate whether your current environment is reinforcing the investor you want to become Join the list for John's Multifamily Mastery program if you want support, community, and tools to help you grow and scale Thank you for joining us for another great episode! If you're enjoying the show, please LEAVE A RATING OR REVIEW, and be sure to hit that subscribe button so you don't miss an episode.
Transcribe →Why Apartment Investors Pay Less in Taxes, Ep. 787
Apr 700:19:49Tap to summarizeThis week, learn how apartment investing can help you keep more of what you earn by using the tax code the way it was designed. John breaks down why the tax code rewards certain behaviors, how multifamily investing fits into that system, and why tax strategy matters just as much as income growth if you want to build long-term wealth. John also explains how bonus depreciation works at a high level, why apartment syndications can offer tax advantages that many other investments do not, and how passive investors can think about ownership, downside protection, and scale when evaluating deals. The episode connects tax strategy with investing structure so you can better understand not just how to save money, but how to invest more intentionally. If you've ever looked at your tax bill and wondered how investors use apartments to reduce their obligations while building wealth, this episode gives you a practical starting point. Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here. Key Takeaways Understand that the tax code is built around incentives that reward business ownership and investment activity Learn how apartment investing can create tax advantages through depreciation and bonus depreciation Recognize why tax strategy is not just about what you make, but how much you keep Evaluate apartment syndications based on cash flow, downside protection, and operator structure See why scale, team structure, and shared investor oversight can reduce certain risks compared to smaller one-person operations Topics Why the Tax Code Matters to Investors John explains that the tax code is less about punishment and more about incentives The government uses tax breaks, credits, depreciation, and other tools to encourage private-market behavior it wants to see, including business ownership and housing provision Why Apartment Investing Gets Favorable Treatment Apartment investors help provide housing, which aligns with the kind of activity the tax code is designed to reward John frames apartment investing as a way private investors step in to provide a service the government does not want to handle directly How Bonus Depreciation Works at a High Level John explains that bonus depreciation allows investors to accelerate losses in year one instead of spreading them out over the full life of the property He shares an example where a $100,000 investment produced roughly a $60,000 paper loss on the K-1, which could offset other passive income depending on the investor's tax situation He also cautions listeners to speak with their CPA because these benefits depend on each individual's circumstances How Apartment Syndications Compare to Other Investments John contrasts apartment syndications with flipping and REITs, noting that syndication investors typically own shares of the actual real estate and receive pass-through tax benefits In contrast, REIT investors own shares of the REIT itself, so those tax benefits are generally taken at the REIT level rather than passed through directly How to Think About Ownership and Scale John compares investing in a syndication to owning shares in a larger company, where scale and infrastructure can create more stability than a one-person operation He encourages investors to understand the total raise amount, their percentage ownership, and how the enterprise is staffed and run What John Looks for in a Deal John emphasizes starting with a property that is already cash flowing rather than relying entirely on a turnaround plan He says this helps protect the downside while still giving investors upside through improved operations and execution He also prefers investing in deals with experienced operators, on-site staff, and enough investor oversight to hold the sponsor to a high standard 📢 Announcement: Learn about our Apartment Investing Mastermind here. Next Steps Talk to your CPA about whether depreciation or bonus depreciation from apartment investing applies to your tax situation Review apartment investment opportunities with a focus on cash flow, downside protection, and team structure Understand the raise amount and your ownership percentage before investing in any syndication Compare syndications to other vehicles like flips or REITs so you understand how tax treatment and ownership differ Download the 7 Questions You Must Ask Before Investing in Apartments guide before making your next apartment investment decision Thank you for joining us for another great episode! If you're enjoying the show, please LEAVE A RATING OR REVIEW, and be sure to hit that subscribe button so you don't miss an episode.
Transcribe →How to Raise Capital in a Trust Recession with Todd Heitner, Ep. 786
Mar 3100:41:36Tap to summarizeTodd Heitner has spent roughly 20 years helping real estate investors improve their online presence, with the last decade focused on multifamily apartments and syndication. After seeing capital raisers struggle not because they lacked tools, but because they lacked strategy, Todd expanded from providing websites and ready-made marketing assets into helping syndicators attract investors more effectively. His current focus includes leveraging other people's audiences, improving investor-facing strategy, and using AI in ways that build trust instead of eroding it. Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here. Key Takeaways Understand why today's capital-raising environment is harder because investors are operating in a broader "trust recession" Avoid cold outreach tactics that feel transactional and instead build trust through warmer, more personal connections Learn how to leverage other people's audiences so you can borrow trust instead of trying to manufacture it from scratch Identify a specific investor audience you actually understand, rather than targeting people only because they have money Use AI to speed up research and content creation, but only with clear strategy and human review so your message still sounds like you Topics Why We're in a Trust Recession Todd explains that businesses across industries are facing a harder trust environment, driven by institutional distrust, scams, fake reviews, AI-generated noise, and marketing overload He notes that multifamily syndication has been hit especially hard because many investors have recently been burned by bad deals, paused distributions, capital calls, and losses What Not to Do When Raising Capital Cold outreach that jumps straight into a pitch does not work well, especially in the current environment Todd gives examples like random LinkedIn pitches, old acquaintances suddenly asking for money, and generic outreach that tries to force trust before a relationship exists How to Build Trust More Effectively Instead of pitching immediately, Todd recommends leading with genuine interest in the other person and having a normal conversation first If the fit is there, the discussion can move naturally toward what you're working on without making the interaction feel forced or transactional Why Warm Referrals Matter Todd compares warm referrals to getting a restaurant recommendation from a trusted friend: the guard comes down faster because trust is borrowed from the person making the introduction He explains that syndicators should think carefully about who their ideal investors already trust and then create win-win ways to access those audiences Leveraging Other People's Audiences Todd shares an example from a multifamily event where simply being introduced as a speaker changed the context completely and created a line of people ready to talk to him afterward The main lesson is that context matters: when someone trusted introduces you, people approach you differently than when you chase them cold Choosing the Right Investor Audience Todd says syndicators need to know exactly who they are targeting, rather than taking a broad "anyone with money" approach He uses doctors as an example, explaining that once you know your audience, you can identify the podcasts, professionals, events, and communities they already trust He also warns that if you do not understand an audience's actual problems, pains, and context, your message will not resonate and may even reduce trust How to Reach Out Credibly Todd recommends personalized outreach that starts with the other person, not with yourself He says the strongest messages make it obvious that they were written specifically for one person, explain why the outreach matters to that person, and make a simple ask If a message could be sent to 100 different people without changing a word, Todd says it is not good enough Using AI the Right Way Todd believes AI can be powerful for capital raisers, especially for content creation, research, and identifying connections, but only if the operator already has a clear process and strategy He warns that using AI without strategy just creates bad or generic content faster He specifically emphasizes that AI-generated content must still sound like you, and that users should never hand everything off blindly without review 📢 Announcement: Learn about our Apartment Investing Mastermind here. Round of Insights Failure that set Todd up for success: Not recognizing the importance of partnerships and relationships early in his single-family business. Watching a competitor dominate through stronger relationships pushed Todd to make partnerships a core focus, and those relationships are still producing referrals years later. Digital or mobile resource: Claude. Book recommendation: How to Get Everything You Can Out of All You've Got by Jay Abraham. Daily habit: Journaling with a structured routine. Todd rates different areas of his life on a scale of 1 to 5, then identifies what's missing to make each one a 5 so he knows what to focus on next. #1 insight for building trust in relationships: Focus on the other person. Understand what they care about, what problem you can solve, and what value you can provide — relationships grow naturally from there. Favorite restaurant in Pennsylvania: Boxers. Next Steps Check out https://apartmentinvestorpro.com/ to learn more about Todd's work. Audit your current investor outreach and remove any messaging that feels cold, generic, or overly transactional Define a narrower ideal investor profile that you actually understand and can speak to credibly Identify the people, platforms, and professionals your target audience already trusts, then look for ways to access those audiences through warm introductions or partnerships Review how you are using AI and make sure it is supporting a clear strategy rather than generating generic content faster Personalize your outreach so it starts with the other person, not with your own pitch Thank you for joining us for another great episode! If you're enjoying the show, please LEAVE A RATING OR REVIEW, and be sure to hit that subscribe button so you don't miss an episode.
Transcribe →The Real Reason You're Stuck and How to Change It, Ep. 785
Mar 2400:18:05Tap to summarizeJohn Casmon breaks down the two major barriers that prevent most investors from achieving meaningful growth in multifamily real estate. In this solo episode, he explains why many aspiring investors stall before getting started and what separates those who scale from those who remain stuck. Rather than focusing on tactics alone, John highlights the mindset and execution gaps that consistently hold people back. He discusses how clarity of goals and consistent action create momentum, while hesitation and lack of direction lead to missed opportunities. This episode is designed for investors who feel like they're spinning their wheels or unsure how to move forward. John shares practical ways to identify what's blocking progress and how to build a more disciplined path toward scaling a multifamily portfolio. If you're looking to transition from learning to doing, this conversation offers a straightforward framework to help you get unstuck and take meaningful steps forward. Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here. Key Takeaways Define clear investment goals to avoid drifting without direction Recognize how lack of clarity slows decision-making and growth Understand why consistent action matters more than perfect timing Identify common mental barriers that prevent investors from getting started Build momentum by focusing on repeatable execution Topics Two Major Barriers to Investor Success Lack of clarity around goals and direction Failure to take consistent action Why Clarity Matters Clear goals lead to better decisions Investors without direction struggle to evaluate opportunities The Importance of Taking Action Momentum builds confidence and experience Waiting for perfect conditions leads to stagnation Breaking Through Analysis Paralysis Overthinking deals can prevent progress Small steps compound into meaningful growth Building Long-Term Momentum Consistency creates deal flow and relationships Execution separates successful investors from spectators 📢 Announcement: Learn about our Apartment Investing Mastermind here. Next Steps Define your short-term and long-term investment goals Identify one action you can take this week Start building relationships with brokers and investors Evaluate deals using clear criteria Commit to consistent execution Thank you for joining us for another great episode! If you're enjoying the show, please LEAVE A RATING OR REVIEW, and be sure to hit that subscribe button so you don't miss an episode.
Transcribe →No Hype, No BS. The Only Legit Way to Scale in Apartments with Ari Rastegar, Ep. 784
Mar 1700:31:02Tap to summarizeAri Rastegar is the founder of Rastegar Capital, a real estate investment firm that works with public pension funds, insurance companies, institutional capital partners, and hundreds of accredited investors. Starting with just $3,500 in student loans, Ari built a platform that has invested across 38 cities, 13 states, and seven different asset classes. With a background as an attorney and an English major, Ari emphasizes the role of relationships, mindset, and relentless action in building a successful real estate career. Today, his firm focuses heavily on development opportunities, zoning, entitlements, and transforming underutilized land into multifamily and mixed-use developments. Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here. Key Takeaways Build relationships aggressively if you want to scale in multifamily Focus on being resourceful rather than worrying about a lack of resources Develop the mental resilience required to push through rejection and setbacks Use technology and AI tools to accelerate research, deal analysis, and market insights Combine digital tools with in-person relationship building to grow your network and deal flow Topics Scaling Through Relationships Ari explains that real estate ultimately comes down to deals and capital Building relationships with brokers, financial advisors, and capital partners is critical for long-term growth Resourcefulness vs. Resources Investors today have more tools available than ever before Social media, digital platforms, and cold outreach allow investors to build capital relationships at scale The Mindset Required to Scale Ari emphasizes that scaling is primarily a psychological challenge The ability to endure rejection, criticism, and uncertainty separates top operators from the rest Raising Institutional Capital Institutional investors require strong systems, audited financials, and a proven track record Unlike retail investors, institutions rely heavily on investment committees and structured risk controls Leveraging AI in Real Estate AI tools like ChatGPT can accelerate market research, underwriting models, and deal sourcing However, technology must be paired with real-world networking and on-the-ground deal sourcing Operating in a Challenging Development Environment Rising interest rates have significantly increased development costs Developers must remain patient, control what they can, and prepare projects so they are ready when market conditions improve 📢 Announcement: Learn about our Apartment Investing Mastermind here. Round of Insights Failure that set Ari up for success: Neglecting his health early in his career. Hitting a wall with anxiety and burnout forced him to take wellness seriously and start managing his body and energy the same way he manages his balance sheet. Digital or mobile resource: ChatGPT. Book recommendation: Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill and Relentless by Tim Grover for developing the mindset required to perform at the highest level. Daily habit: Extensive meditation practice, sometimes for hours a day. #1 insight for scaling a multifamily portfolio: Build relationships relentlessly and take massive action. Scaling requires constantly meeting brokers, investors, and partners while putting yourself out there to uncover deals and capital. Favorite restaurant in Austin, TX: Chuy's. Next Steps Learn more about Ari Rastegar and Rastegar Capital Follow Ari on Instagram for insights on real estate, mindset, and leadership Explore Ari's book The Gift of Failure to learn more about his personal journey and philosophy Closing Call to Action Thank you for joining us for another great episode! If you're enjoying the show, please LEAVE A RATING OR REVIEW, and be sure to hit that subscribe button so you don't miss an episode.
Transcribe →5 Steps You Must Take After Buying an Apartment Building, Ep. 783
Mar 1000:12:25Tap to summarizeThis week, learn the five critical steps you need to take immediately after purchasing a multifamily property. From setting up your ownership structure and bank accounts to notifying tenants, coordinating utilities, managing vendors, and communicating with investors, this episode walks through the operational moves that turn a successful closing into a well-run investment. Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here. Key Takeaways Establish your business structure and operating bank accounts before beginning property operations Clearly notify residents about new management and communicate rent payment processes early Transfer utilities and confirm billing responsibilities to avoid inheriting previous owner expenses Identify and evaluate existing vendors such as landscaping, maintenance, and service providers Set clear expectations with residents to establish standards under new ownership Communicate proactively with investors and partners about closing updates and future reporting Topics Planning Before You Take Ownership Begin planning operational decisions before closing on the property Determine whether you will self-manage or hire a property management company Establishing Your Business Structure Decide whether the property will operate under a new LLC or existing entity Open bank accounts to collect rent and pay expenses through the business entity Communicating With Residents Notify tenants about the ownership transition and who to contact for maintenance or concerns Provide clear instructions on rent payment methods such as ACH, checks, or money orders Managing Utilities and Operational Infrastructure Transfer utilities such as water, sewer, gas, and electricity into the correct accounts Confirm responsibility for common-area utilities or tenant-paid services Reviewing Vendors and Service Providers Identify contractors and service providers already working on the property Evaluate existing contracts for services like landscaping, snow removal, and maintenance Setting Expectations for Residents Address unresolved maintenance issues quickly to establish credibility Demonstrate higher operational standards under new ownership Communicating With Investors and Partners Notify partners and passive investors when the deal officially closes Set expectations around communication cadence, reporting, and distributions 📢 Announcement: Learn about our Apartment Investing Mastermind here. Next Steps Create a checklist of operational steps to follow immediately after closing on a property Confirm your business structure and banking setup before the first rent payments arrive Develop a communication plan for residents, vendors, and investors Review vendor contracts and operational costs to ensure alignment with your business plan Set clear expectations for property operations from day one of ownership Thank you for joining us for another great episode! If you're enjoying the show, please LEAVE A RATING OR REVIEW, and be sure to hit that subscribe button so you don't miss an episode.
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