BiggerPockets Real Estate Podcast

The “Lazy” Person’s Guide to Retiring with Rentals (in a Decade!)

51 snips
Nov 26, 2025
Dion McNeeley, the 'lazy investor,' achieved financial freedom with his unique approach to real estate. He shares his unconventional advice, such as avoiding good school districts for rental investments and always ending leases in winter to minimize tenant turnover. Dion reveals his innovative binder strategy that lets tenants suggest their own rent increases, emphasizing the power of low-maintenance properties. Hear how he built a high-cash-flow portfolio while working minimal hours, proving you can thrive in real estate without heavy lifting!
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ANECDOTE

From $17/hour To Financial Freedom

  • Dion started investing at 40 after layoffs, heavy debt, and low pay, then house-hacked into duplexes and small multifamily.
  • Over 12 years he built 18 units and retired with large passive income.
INSIGHT

Pay Down Debt To Maximize Cashflow

  • Small portfolios with low leverage can generate large passive income when you prioritize paying down debt.
  • Dion holds 18 units with low LTV and $21k monthly net cashflow after reserves.
ADVICE

Let Tenants Pick Rent With Data

  • Use the binder strategy to let tenants voluntarily raise their rent by showing market data and asking what’s fair.
  • Tenants feel respected, accept increases below market, and turnover stays low.
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