Raising Private Money with Jay Conner

Jay Conner
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Oct 9, 2025 • 30min

How Jason Lassiter Raised $1.5 Million in Private Money for Real Estate Deals

In the real estate investing world, few strategies are as empowering—and potentially lucrative—as flipping with private money. In a recent episode of "Flip This Town," veteran investor Jay Conner sat down with Jason Lassiter, a successful real estate entrepreneur, to share actionable tips for building your business using private funding. Here’s a summary of their conversation and why private money might be the creative spark your local real estate market needs.What is Private Money—and Why Does It Matter?Jason Lassiter began by defining private money simply: it’s funding that comes from individuals, not banks or hard money lenders. Private investors—often friends, family, or local connections—lend their money for your real estate deals, earning a return secured by real estate collateral."The agility that private money gives you in this market is powerful," Jason noted. Unlike traditional lenders with stringent requirements and long paperwork trails, private lenders can provide speed and flexibility. This allows investors to swoop in on deals that others might not be able to close.In Your Backyard—Opportunities are EverywhereJason emphasized that you don’t have to move to a big city or hot market to take advantage of private money lending. In fact, there are undervalued properties to flip in every town, big or small. The crucial first step is identifying what Jason describes as the "hidden gems"—properties often overlooked due to cosmetic issues or outdated marketing."When you’re using private money, you can move fast," Jason said, "and sellers appreciate that, especially in smaller markets where good buyers are hard to find." Swift, cash-based closings put you ahead of the pack, especially in competitive neighborhoods.Building Your Private Money NetworkJay Conner and Jason discussed that often, potential private lenders are in your everyday circles—they just don’t know how they can help (and benefit!)."The number one thing is just letting people know what you do," Jay advised. Start having conversations: Share at local meet-ups, church groups, or even social media that you help people earn great returns, secured by real estate.Jason added, "You’d be surprised—neighbors, dentists, business owners—they all might have retirement accounts or savings that aren’t earning much. Once they trust you, these can become great sources of private loans."A key point is to keep things professional. Outline a simple deal structure, provide transparency, and ensure their investment is secured and insured. Over time, as you develop a track record, referrals will flow your way. As Jason put it, “Integrity and communication are the secret sauce. You have to deliver every time.”How to Structure the DealsEvery private money arrangement needs clear boundaries. Jason likes to keep it simple: agreements are usually secured by the property (via a note and mortgage or deed of trust), and the lender earns a fixed interest rate, often paid when the property flips. Terms vary, but the focus is always on win-win scenarios—reasonable rates for the lender, with enough margin left for a profitable flip.Jay and Jason explained that clarity is crucial. Lay out timelines, exit strategies, and backup options—with private money, reputation is everything. As your investors succeed, they’ll want to invest again (and will bring friends along).Flipping With ConfidenceJason’s parting encouragement? Don’t let a lack of bank financing stop you. In any town, there’s “hidden money” waiting to work for you, if you leverage relationships and communicate well. Confidence, transparency, and consistency are your best tools for building a private money network and growing your flipping business.Flipping houses with private money isn’t just about real estate—it’s about community building, providing value, and creating local wea
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Oct 6, 2025 • 36min

Retire in 10 Years or Less: Robert Allen’s Proven Wealth Blueprint

Achieving lifelong wealth is an aspiration shared by many, but very few actually manage to accomplish it in their lifetime. In the insightful discussion between Jay Conner and legendary wealth coach Robert Allen, listeners are treated to a masterclass on what it takes not just to build wealth but to ensure it lasts for generations.So, what are the secrets to generating a lifetime of unlimited wealth? Let’s break down the essential lessons shared by Robert Allen in this illuminating conversation. Mindset is EverythingRobert Allen begins by emphasizing the power of mindset. According to Allen, building wealth starts from within. Many approach money with limiting beliefs, such as “money is hard to earn” or “only the lucky become wealthy.” These beliefs can sabotage efforts before they even begin.Instead, Allen suggests adopting a mindset of abundance. Reframe your thinking to believe that opportunities are everywhere, and that you have the resources and ability to seize them. Allen claims: “If you don’t believe you can have unlimited wealth, then you’re right. But if you believe you can, then you’re also right.” The Power of Multiple Income StreamsOne of Allen’s core philosophies is the importance of multiple income streams. Relying solely on one source—like a job—can put your financial future at risk. He advocates for creating three or more income streams, which can include rental properties, side businesses, investments, royalties, and more.Jay Conner and Robert Allen discuss how real estate, in particular, can provide passive income that lasts for a lifetime. But Allen’s advice goes beyond real estate. He encourages people to explore digital businesses, dividend-paying stocks, or even writing a book for ongoing royalty payments. The Principle of LeverageWealth isn’t just about working harder; it’s about working smarter. Allen introduces the idea of leverage—using other people’s time, money, and skills to scale your wealth much faster. For example, in real estate investing, this might mean partnering with investors, leveraging mortgages, or using professional property managers to reduce your workload.As Allen puts it: “You don’t need to do everything yourself. Find partners, use systems, or hire experts who can help you grow faster and more efficiently.” Fail Forward and Embrace LearningAllen and Conner both agree: failure is inevitable on the road to wealth. What sets successful individuals apart is their ability to learn from setbacks and keep moving forward. Allen recounts his own challenges, including investments that didn’t go as planned. He calls these “tuition fees” for the school of wealth and growth.Embrace these moments as opportunities to gain wisdom and resilience. Over time, these lessons compound, building your confidence and expertise. Action Beats PerfectionFinally, Robert Allen encourages listeners to take consistent action. Many people get stuck in endless research or planning phases, paralyzed by indecision. According to Allen, those who act—imperfectly and repeatedly—are often the ones who build lasting wealth. Start with small steps, learn as you go, and adjust your strategies based on what you discover.In ConclusionThe path to unlimited wealth isn’t reserved for the privileged few. As Robert Allen outlines in his engaging conversation with Jay Conner, it’s accessible to anyone willing to adopt the right mindset, build multiple income streams, leverage resources, welcome learning opportunities, and take consistent action.Start today by reframing your beliefs about money, identifying new streams of income, and—most importantly—taking that first, imperfect step. Because, as Allen reminds us, your wealth journey begins the moment you decide it will.
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Oct 2, 2025 • 32min

The Mindset and Habits Behind Effortless Private Money Raising for Entrepreneurs

***Guest AppearanceCredits to:https://www.youtube.com/@lily.global    “Get Private Money For Property Deals - Jay Conner And Lily Patrascu”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EHZVZgLbkmI&t=813s   In today’s rapidly evolving landscape, success stories aren’t just inspiring—they’re also instructive. The recent conversation between Jay Conner and Lily Patrascu offers a treasure trove of actionable strategies for anyone interested in real estate investing, personal branding, or simply leveling up their business game.Jay Conner: The Power of Creative Real Estate InvestingJay Conner’s journey in real estate is marked by adaptability and creative problem-solving. In the recording, Jay dives into how he got started in the industry and the crucial turning points that shaped his approach. One key insight he shares is the importance of not relying solely on traditional financing.Traditional banks and lenders can be limiting, especially for newcomers or those seeking flexible terms. Jay explains how leveraging private money became his secret weapon—allowing him to fund deals quickly and with far less red tape. Private investors, according to Jay, aren’t just looking for returns—they’re looking for trustworthy operators. “It’s about trust, relationships, and transparency,” he stresses.For aspiring investors, Jay’s advice is clear: start building your credibility now. Attend local meetups, connect with mentors, and most importantly, start small but think big. Over time, your reputation will become as valuable as your portfolio.Collaboration: The Multiplier EffectA recurring theme throughout the conversation is the exponential power of collaboration. Jay and Lily both highlight how engaging with like-minded individuals, whether through masterminds, podcasts, or business partnerships, multiplies growth.Jay illustrates with real-world examples—partnering with others led to larger deals, increased reach, and, ultimately, greater profits. Lily echoes this sentiment, noting that collaboration opens doors and accelerates learning. “When you surround yourself with high-achievers, success rubs off on you,” she says.Bridging Real Estate and BrandingWhat makes this discussion truly unique is the synergy between real estate investing and personal branding. Jay and Lily underscore how credibility in one’s field—and visibility online—are two sides of the same coin. Whether you’re raising funds for a property or launching a new coaching program, people invest in those they trust and recognize.The practical takeaway? Start today—document your wins, build your network, and invest in your personal development. With platforms available to amplify your voice and numerous communities to join, there’s never been a better time to carve out your own path.ConclusionThe conversation between Jay Conner and Lily Patrascu is a blueprint for anyone looking to turn ambition into action. By melding smart financing strategies with intentional personal branding, the possibilities are endless.If you’re at the crossroads of building a real estate portfolio or increasing your business visibility, Jay and Lily’s insights are your north star. Start small, stay authentic, and remember—the journey is just as important as the destination.10 Discussion Questions from this Episode:Jay Conner emphasizes “not asking for money” when raising private funds for real estate. What psychological or strategic advantages do you think this approach provides compared to traditional fundraising methods?In the episode, Jay describes wearing his “teacher hat” instead of a “salesperson hat.” How does leading with education build long-term trust with potential private le
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Sep 29, 2025 • 34min

Elevate Your Investing: Jay Conner’s Steps to Raising Unlimited Tax-Free Capital

***Guest AppearanceCredits to:https://www.youtube.com/@investorfuel   “5 Steps to Raising Private Money”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ksdxraEyryo  Real estate can be a daunting world to break into, but thanks to trailblazers like Jay Conner and Mike Hambright, aspiring investors can sidestep common pitfalls and accelerate their learning curve. In the enlightening episode, Jay joins Mike to dive deep into the keys behind his success and the lessons every real estate investor, seasoned or novice, needs to hear.From Banker to Real Estate MaverickJay Conner didn’t start his career in real estate. As he shares with Mike, Jay’s journey began in the world of banking—a background that gave him an insider’s view of how lending institutions make decisions. When Jay ventured into real estate investing full-time back in 2003, he brought this financial acumen with him. Early on, his competitive edge was actually in understanding how to secure funding—a lesson that remains critical for investors today.Jay recalls how, like many, he initially relied on traditional, institutional lenders. But that all changed in 2008, when banks started shutting their doors in the wake of the financial crisis. “All our lines of credit were frozen overnight,” he recounts. Instead of calling it quits, Jay pivoted—discovering the world of “private money.”The Power of Private MoneyJay’s perspective on funding is refreshingly straightforward: if you’re not controlling your funding, you’re limiting your business. Traditional lenders are plagued by delays, red tape, and shifting lending standards. That’s where private money shines.Private money—loans from individuals rather than banks—allowed Jay to swiftly acquire, renovate, and turn properties without cumbersome loan approvals or rejections. He points out that private lenders are seeking good returns and safe investments, making real estate the ideal match. For Jay, mastering the art of private money raised the ceiling on how much he could grow.Scaling with Relationships and ReputationMike Hambright, a seasoned investor himself, steers the conversation toward how relationships have been key to Jay’s ongoing success. In real estate, says Jay, your reputation is your most valuable asset. By delivering consistently and treating lenders and partners ethically, Jay built a network eager to work with him.He also underscores the importance of transparency. Jay openly communicates about project risks and rewards, which only enhances trust. “Private lenders want to know their money’s safe, and that you’re someone who can be trusted with that responsibility,” he explains.Mindset: The Ultimate Game-ChangerOne of the most inspiring moments in the podcast comes when Jay and Mike discuss the mindset required for sustained success. Jay admits he wasn’t always comfortable pitching opportunities to others—a common block for many entrepreneurs. “It’s not about asking for money,” Jay says. “It’s about offering an opportunity—letting someone else participate in your success.”Mike echoes this sentiment, highlighting that shifting from a scarcity to an abundance mindset changes everything. Real estate is ultimately about solving problems for sellers, buyers, and lenders alike; making offers and networking isn’t self-serving, but rather a win-win for everyone involved.Timeless Takeaways for Any InvestorThe episode wraps up with Jay’s advice for anyone looking to break new ground or scale their investing business:Embrace Rejection: Not every deal or lender will say yes, and that’s okay.Invest in Relationships: Treat every partner like your most important client—they might just become it.Never Stop Learning: The mark
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Sep 25, 2025 • 48min

The Mindset Shift Every Real Estate Investor Needs for Raising Private Money

***Guest AppearanceCredits to:https://www.youtube.com/@respectmyblueprintpodcast  “The Blueprint to Attracting Private Money for Real Estate | Jay Conner Interview (2025)"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U8odG9ocVgs One of the biggest challenges for real estate investors—new and seasoned alike—is securing funding for their deals. Many hopeful investors are turned away by banks, discouraged by strict credit requirements, or simply overwhelmed by the idea that hefty amounts of capital are needed to get started. But what if you could bypass the hoops, skip the hard money lenders, and line up the funds you need from regular people in your own community?That’s exactly what Jay Conner, known as the “Private Money Authority,” has been doing since 2009. In his conversation with Wesley Paul on the Respect My Blueprint podcast, Jay laid out a practical and proven roadmap for leveraging private money—and why mindset is the key to unlocking this powerful strategy.Flip the Script on FundingJay’s journey began in a small town in North Carolina, with a target market of only about 40,000 people. Despite this “small pond,” Jay has managed to dominate his market, buying and flipping over 500 houses and building an average profit per deal of $86,000.He attributes much of his success to a simple but profound shift: instead of chasing after loans or groveling at the feet of the banks, he decided he would “offer a mortgage rather than ask for one.” In other words, Jay stopped asking for money and started offering people the opportunity to invest in his deals. By repositioning himself as a teacher, not a beggar, the dynamic shifted—and so did his results.Teaching, Not PitchingOne of Jay’s golden rules is never to ask for money or pitch a deal directly. Instead, he leads with education. He explains to people in his network—church members, acquaintances, friends—what private lending is, how it works, and what protections and returns they can expect.The trust inherent in these relationships is vital. “There’s a five-letter word that’s crucial in this business—trust,” Jay says. People are much more willing to move forward if they understand what they’re getting into and if they trust you to guide them.Setting the TermsRather than letting lenders set the conditions, Jay established his own terms:Interest rate: He’s consistently offered 8% since 2009, a rate that outpaces what most people can get in a savings account or CD.Loan-to-value: Jay only borrows up to 75% of the after-repair value (ARV) of a property, mitigating risk for the lender.Security: Each lender receives a promissory note secured by a deed of trust (or mortgage), and they’re named as the mortgagee on the insurance policy.No desperation: Jay separates conversations about his program from discussions about individual deals. By educating first and only bringing deals to lenders after they’re comfortable and interested, he avoids the “desperation” that turns so many people off.This approach works: Jay now has 47 private lenders—and more capital available than deals to put it into.Who Can Be a Private Money Lender?Jay’s experience has proven that just about anyone can be a private lender. From retired teachers and law enforcement officers to minor children who inherited money, private lending isn’t limited to the wealthy elite. If someone has either liquid capital or unused retirement funds, they can become a lender.The Takeaway: Get the Money FirstOne of the most important lessons from Jay’s interview is this: line up your funding before chasing deals. Too often, investors scramble for money after they find a property, which can create stress and lead to poo
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Sep 22, 2025 • 1h 9min

The Power of Servant Leadership and Private Money in Real Estate Investing

***Guest AppearanceCredits to:https://www.youtube.com/@whynotre "Why Not? Real Estate Podcast - Jay Conner"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4cjoUrmu89c If you're a real estate investor or aspiring to become one, you know the age-old challenge: finding the funds to finance your deals. The traditional route—knocking on the doors of banks and hard money lenders—is fraught with red tape, credit checks, rigid terms, and, occasionally, heartbreak. But what if there was another way to secure capital that gives you more control, flexibility, and freedom to scale your business? Enter private money—a method that Jay Conner, known as the “Private Money Authority,” has mastered over 20 years and more than 475 deals.Recently, Jay Conner sat down with Brian Lucier on the “Why Not Real Estate” podcast to share his journey from the mobile home industry to building a seven-figure real estate business and becoming a private money evangelist. Here are some of the most impactful takeaways from their lively conversation.From Mobile Homes to Real Estate MogulJay’s entry into real estate wasn’t by accident. Raised by a developer father, he was surrounded by conversations about business, finance, and property development from a young age. By 12, Jay was already helping vet credit histories for home buyers—a skill set that would serve him well later. But when the mobile home industry’s financing dried up in the early 2000s, Jay pivoted decisively into real estate flipping.Inspired by friends who successfully made $30,000 in their first flip, Jay realized the potential gains in single-family housing were far greater than the margins he was chasing in manufactured housing.The Game-Changing Crisis of 2009For the first six years of his real estate career, Jay did what most investors do: he went to the bank, pleaded for loans, and built his operations around institutional funding. All that came to a halt in January 2009, when his bank cut off his lines of credit—a scenario painfully familiar to many seasoned investors.But instead of packing it in, Jay saw this crisis as his catalyst. “Who do I know that can help me fix this problem?” he asked himself. That led him to discover the world of private money—ordinary individuals looking for secure and solid returns outside of Wall Street. In 90 days, Jay raised over $2 million in private capital and never looked back.What is Private Money?Unlike hard money or bank loans, private money comes from individuals—often within your existing network—who want to invest their capital for stable, attractive returns. Instead of you chasing the lender’s criteria, you set the rules: interest rates, terms, and how deals are structured. And because it’s relationship-driven, private money fosters trust and repeat business.Jay emphasizes that raising private money isn’t about asking for a handout or “pitching” a deal in desperation. It’s about education—teaching friends, colleagues, and acquaintances about safe, asset-backed opportunities where everyone wins.Key Lessons for InvestorsHave Multiple Exit Strategies: Jay’s first piece of hard-earned advice is never to rely on a single exit plan. Whether you’re flipping or holding for rental, know your numbers and have options. If you get stuck with a property, you need a plan B (or C).Build Relationships, Not Just Transactions: Success in private money is built on trust. Teach potential lenders the value of your opportunity and let them choose to participate.Automate and Systematize: Jay has automated his business to run in less than 10 hours a week. The secret? Focus on what you do best, delegate, and trust your team and systems.Always Be Learning: Whether you’re a newcomer or a veteran, see
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Sep 18, 2025 • 35min

Raising Millions and Finding Hidden Real Estate Opportunities Through Tax Sales and Data with Brian Seidensticker

For many real estate investors, the journey from small-time deals to raising millions in private capital can feel like an insurmountable leap. But in a recent episode of Jay Conner’s “Raising Private Money” podcast, Brian Seidensticker—an aerospace engineer-turned-real estate visionary—pulled back the curtain on how data access and tech platforms are revolutionizing the way investors find opportunities, scale their businesses, and secure capital.Let’s dig into some of the key takeaways from Brian’s conversation with Jay, where expertise, technology, and a growth mindset collide to uncover hidden corners of the real estate world.Thinking Bigger: Mindset Shifts for Raising Serious CapitalBrian’s journey began with a powerful realization most investors miss: thinking bigger from the start is crucial. Instead of focusing on piecemeal investments—and the dozens of small conversations that go with them—he prioritized aligning with investors capable of making substantial contributions. This not only streamlines conversations but also helps set minimum investment thresholds that make legal and operational sense.As Jay pointed out, managing dozens of small investors can be just as much legal work as handling larger ones, but with exponentially less capital. The trick, Brian says, is constantly “planting seeds” and being intentional about how you present yourself. His favorite answer to “what do you do?” is simple but effective: “I run a real estate fund.” It immediately sparks curiosity and invites deeper conversations.Unlocking Overlooked Opportunities: Tax Liens and DeedsMost people are familiar with single-family rentals, commercial buildings, maybe even self-storage—but tax liens and deeds? As Brian explains, it’s a “weird, overlooked corner” of real estate that quietly moves $4 to $5 billion annually. Tax lien investing is like holding a micro-mortgage on a property, earning interest until the owner pays off the debt—or, potentially, stepping into ownership if they don’t.The process is nuanced. When owners fall behind on taxes, counties sell liens to investors. The investor gets a fixed interest return if the owner repays, but if not, they could gain the property following a foreclosure process (subject to state laws). Tax deed investing, on the other hand, allows investors to buy distressed real estate outright—often at a steep discount.Brian stresses that while it’s not always glamorous (think “fix and flip” properties in need of real TLC), the continuous learning and unique opportunities make tax sales a rewarding niche for those willing to do their homework.Why Data Access and Tech Are Game ChangersSo how do you scale and increase your odds of success in such a complex market? Brian’s answer: data and technology. The inefficiency and fragmentation of tax sale information used to require teams of people calling counties, tracking sales, and analyzing lists by hand.Brian’s platform, Tax Sale Resources, was born from this pain point. Originally an internal tool, it’s since evolved into a national software solution—like a “Zillow for tax sale properties”—aggregating data from thousands of auctions and millions of properties nationwide. Investors can now pinpoint where and when sales are happening and even analyze which auctions are likely to offer better deals.Over time, layering auction results and machine learning enables insight into the best places to invest and which sales to avoid—a huge advantage for investors and for Brian’s own fund, Mount North Capital.Collaboration Over CompetitionAn especially noteworthy part of Brian’s approach is collaboration. Through his fund, he partners with local investors to share profits and give them access to capital, rather than simply acting as a lender. This model leverages the strengths of both parties: data and funding meet local market expertise.Key
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Sep 15, 2025 • 35min

Power Your Profits: How Systems and Confidence Attract Private Funding for Business Growth with Dr. Susie Carder

Are you ready to scale your business, attract serious capital, and build true generational wealth? If so, you’re in the right place. In a recent insightful conversation on the “Raising Private Money” podcast, Jay Conner welcomed powerhouse entrepreneur and money strategist Dr. Susie Carder. Dr. Susie is a self-made millionaire who has built and sold ten multi-million dollar businesses, including an eight-figure exit, and has raised millions in private capital. She’s worked with big names like Lisa Nichols and Paul Mitchell, but her genius lies in transforming ordinary entrepreneurs into wealth builders.Here are the key lessons and actionable strategies any entrepreneur can use to power profits and scale to eight figures. Systems, Team, and Confidence Are Non-NegotiableThe road from $1M to $10M isn’t just about hustling harder—it’s about building smart systems, assembling a reliable team, and, maybe most importantly, developing the confidence to lead and attract capital.Dr. Susie shared, “Business doesn’t have to be hard, but it does have to be strategic.” Too often, founders stay stuck “trading time for money.” Real growth kicks in when you have repeatable systems and people in place so the business can run without you. This is what investors are truly looking for—an operation that’s not dependent on a single individual. Raising Money is About Relationships, Not Just NumbersOne of the episode’s most memorable takeaways? “Banks look at your credit. Private lenders look at your character.” According to Dr. Susie, private money is first and foremost about credibility and trust. Investors want to know: Are you someone they can believe in? Do you keep your word? Have you built success—even if in a different field?If you’re new to raising capital, borrow credibility from your network, mentors, or partners. Build a “badass list” of your past accomplishments and experiences for yourself and, when it’s relevant, for potential lenders. Don’t go it alone—bring in a board of advisors who can speak to your strengths.Dr. Susie argues that raising money isn’t about money at its core—it’s about your confidence and your vision. “Raising money is not about money, it’s about your confidence,” she shares. When she exuded absolute belief in her project, it once secured her a $250,000 investment on the spot. If you falter, investors falter. Own your expertise and be bold in what you’re building. Clarity, Not ComplexityAnother golden nugget? “Investors don’t invest in confusion. They invest in clarity.” Entrepreneurs sometimes over-explain, using jargon or complicated spreadsheets to compensate for nerves. But the best deals are those you can explain in simple terms—a single page should do it!Focus on what, why, and how:What are you doing?Why is it needed?How will you deliver results for your investors?Most private lenders are not Wall Street experts. Lay out your opportunity in sixth-grade language. Make it easy for them to say yes. Structure to Win (and Survive Setbacks)Dr. Susie is a big believer in building businesses and deals on solid systems, not on “sinking sand.” She’s weathered economic crashes and lost millions; her success always came from her ability to rebuild, learn from mistakes, and set up operations that survive the founder. If you want to attract serious capital, you must demonstrate that your business will thrive—with or without you. Your Story SellsFinally, remember that “your most powerful pitch isn’t a spreadsheet; it’s your story.” Investors buy into people and the purpose that drives them. Articulate your story, your passion, and your mission. When you stand for something bigger than profit, money naturally flows your way.Ready to Propel Your
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Sep 11, 2025 • 35min

Unlock Tax-Free Wealth Using BRRRR and Private Money With Corey Reyment

Are you looking for a way to build substantial wealth through real estate without relying on traditional banks, while maximizing the potential for tax-free growth? Corey Reyment’s journey, as revealed on Jay Conner’s "Raising Private Money" show, offers invaluable lessons for both new and seasoned investors. Let’s break down the key highlights and actionable strategies from Corey’s path to owning 140+ doors and building a multi-million dollar real estate business using the BRRRR strategy.Starting with Intention and IntensityCorey and his wife Carrie began their real estate adventure in 2016 with a single duplex and an ambitious dream: to reach 100 rental doors as quickly as possible. Like many entrepreneurs, Corey didn’t know exactly how he’d reach that milestone but credits his “intensity” and clarity of vision as the driving forces behind his success. His advice? If you want to achieve big results, your desire and motivation—the “why” behind your efforts—must outweigh your fears and distractions. Set that intention, keep your goals front and center, and let your actions reflect what you want most.The Two Things That Matter: Deals and MoneyScaling a portfolio from one property to over 140 units might sound daunting, but Corey simplifies the process: focus on finding deals and finding money. Everything else is secondary. He suggests building relationships with property managers (so you’re not bogged down by daily operations), getting laser-focused on deal acquisition, and consistently working your network for funding sources.Raising Private Money: It’s About TrustCorey’s first private lender was his mom, highlighting that trust and reputation matter more than sales pitches. Over time, he built a broader network of private lenders by demonstrating consistency, transparency, and a genuine belief in the safety and profitability of his real estate investments.One crucial mindset shift Corey espouses is seeing yourself not as someone “begging for money” but as someone offering a valuable opportunity for others to grow their wealth. Once you truly believe in the security and returns of real estate backed by solid deals, you'll find it much easier to talk to potential lenders.Demystifying the BRRRR StrategySo, what is this powerful tool Corey used to achieve such rapid growth? BRRRR stands for Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, and Repeat. By acquiring undervalued properties, improving them, renting them out, and then refinancing to pull out your invested capital, you can recycle the same funds into more and more deals. This compounding effect is how Corey scaled so quickly—and you don’t need a huge pool of initial private money to get started.But beware: Many new investors make mistakes with sloppy underwriting or unrealistic expectations about refinancing. Corey stresses the importance of running your numbers carefully and being upfront with your private lenders about potential risks, such as appraisals coming in lower than expected.Building Wealth—And a LifestyleWhat sets Corey’s story apart is not just the financial wins but the lifestyle he’s created. By building a successful business, Corey and his wife have the freedom to homeschool their four kids and travel extensively. This wasn’t accidental—it was by design. He credits his team for enabling him to step away from daily operations and emphasizes the value of intentional boundaries between work and family life.Take Action: Start Your BRRRR JourneyIf you’re inspired to begin your own BRRRR journey, Corey’s first step is practical: clarify your goal, laser-focus your efforts, and start building your network for private money. Remember, you’re providing an opportunity, not asking for a favor. If you want a deeper dive, Corey even offers a free course on the BRRRR method at Wisconsin Discount Pr
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Sep 8, 2025 • 51min

How Jay Conner Built a Real Estate Empire Using Proven Private Money Strategies

***Guest AppearanceCredits to:https://www.youtube.com/@therealjenjosey "251 - Unlocking Private Money Secrets with Jay Conner"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ww3gU1egqSY If you’re a real estate investor who has ever felt boxed out by banks, high-interest hard money lenders, or just wanted a faster, more flexible way to fund your deals, there’s a gateway you need to know about: private money. On a recent episode of the Raising Private Money podcast, together with Jen Josey, industry expert Jay Conner broke down his journey from traditional lending to mastering the art of raising millions in private capital—and how you can do the same.Jay’s Story: From the Mobile Home Business to Real Estate SuccessJay’s foray into real estate is rooted in a family legacy of mobile homes. Raised in North Carolina, his family’s business was the largest retailer of mobile homes in the country at one point. But when the industry collapsed in the early 2000s due to disappearing financing options, Jay was faced with a formidable challenge. It took his family a year and a half to liquidate $22 million in inventory, an experience he describes as much harder than starting a business. That difficult chapter pushed him into the world of single-family homes in 2003, inspired by friends who successfully flipped properties for far more profit (and less hassle) than he could imagine in mobile homes.For his first six years, Jay relied on traditional bank financing: loan applications, credit pulls, heavy documentation, and all the red tape. But everything shifted for him with the 2008 market crash, when his local banker abruptly stopped lending. In 2009, Jay discovered private money—and he hasn’t looked back since.What Makes Private Money Different?Jay is quick to make an important distinction: private money is not “hard money.” Hard money lenders are typically brokers leveraging pools of investor capital, charging steep origination fees and higher interest rates—often 12-14% or more. In contrast, private money deals are direct relationships with individuals seeking solid, safe returns. According to Jay, the advantages are extensive:No Loan Applications or Credit Checks: Traditional banks set all the rules, but with private money, you’re in the driver’s seat.Flexible Terms: Jay pays his private lenders 8% interest (no points), a figure that has kept 47 private lenders happily funding his deals for over a decade.Speed and Simplicity: No more racing against the clock to get bank approvals—when you control the capital, you control the deal.Total Funding Coverage: With the right approach, you can even collect a check at closing for repairs and extra equity, maximizing leverage and minimizing personal out-of-pocket risk.The Secret Sauce: Teaching, Not PitchingSo how does Jay attract private lenders? Surprisingly, he’s never asked anyone for money and never pitches individual deals upfront. Instead, he educates. Jay puts on his “teacher hat” and holds conversations or luncheons focused on how private money works, offering value first. He explains the opportunity, including the mechanics of self-directed IRAs, and then waits for interested individuals to approach him. The key, he says, is separating the education from the ask—raising capital before you need it.When it’s time for funding, Jay makes what he calls the “good news phone call.” Instead of a sales pitch, it’s a notification: “I now have a house under contract that matches the amount you were interested in putting to work.” This approach builds trust, urgency, and a professional dynamic—no desperate scrounging for financing.Actionable Advice for New InvestorsFor those new to private money, Jay recommends starti

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