Episode 417: 4 Chicago Companies, 800 Doors, & 20 Years! Here's What Actually Worked with Niko Apostal

Dec 4, 2025

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Niko Apostal, founder of Niko Collaborative and managing broker at Essex 312, joins us to share his expertise in real estate brokerage with a focus on 2-4 unit buildings!

Niko starts by explaining how he got his real estate business off the ground in the early 2000s and survived the real estate crash! He provides practical tips for anyone looking to start a real estate business. Niko shares details on his first 2-unit building in Logan Square and dives deep into top "gotchas" when purchasing 2-4 unit buildings. He closes with a bullish outlook on Chicago particularly the areas surrounding the United Center!

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Guest: Niko Apostal, Niko Collaborative - Essex 312

Link: The ONE Thing Podcast

Link: The Power of Full Engagement (Book Recommendation)

Link: SUCI Ep 112 - Chicago Cityscape

Guest Questions:

01:58 Housing Provider Tip - Be sure to appeal property taxes particularly with upcoming reassessments!

03:36 Intro to our guest, Niko Apostal!

08:41 Weathering the storm of the real estate crash!

20:53 Lessons learned and tips for starting a real estate brokerage.

30:25 Investing in a 2-unit in Logan Square.

42:00 Essex 312 vs Essex Realty Group.

48:50 Gotchas when buying a 2-4 unit building!

52:10 Neighborhoods that Niko is bullish on!

60:20 5 Year Outlook on Chicago.

62:24 What is your competitive advantage?

63:11 One piece of advice for new investors.

63:27 What do you do for fun?

63:39 Good book, podcast, or self development activity that you would recommend?

64:04 Local Network Recommendation?

64:57 How can the listeners learn more about you and provide value to you?

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Production House: Flint Stone Media