JF 4005: Turning Conflict Into Capital, Buying Distressed Debt and Due Diligence Must Haves ft. Chris Zona

On this episode of Next Leve CRE, Matt Faircloth interviews Chris Zona. Chris explains how litigation can be used offensively to acquire properties—leveraging non-performing loans (NPLs), credit bids at auction, and receivership—to turn “conflict into capital.” They break down practical playbooks for both quick exits and long-term holds, including borrower workouts and covenant rewrites, plus where smaller and mid-market investors can realistically start. Chris also outlines risks, jurisdictional timelines, and why disciplined diligence and capital planning are essential before diving into distressed debt.

Chris Zona

• Current Role: Partner & Trial Attorney, Mandelbaum Barrett PC (complex commercial litigation; real estate-focused strategies using litigation)

• Based In: New York City, NY

• Say Hi To Them At: LinkedIn | mblawfirm.com

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