In the latest episode of the Raising Private Money podcast, Jay Conner sat down with mastermind member Tim Benskin to discuss his latest deal in Swannanoa, North Carolina. Tim shared his unique approach to acquiring, financing, and profiting from real estate investments, offering invaluable lessons for aspiring and seasoned investors alike. Today, we will dive deep into the key topics discussed, providing a comprehensive guide to understanding Tim Benskin's successful strategies and tactics.A Fortuitous Encounter: The Genesis of the DealTim Benskin’s latest deal began with an unexpected opportunity. While working on a property purchased from a wholesaler, Tim was approached by a neighbor who inquired if he would be interested in buying his house. This initial conversation set the stage for a profitable transaction.Key Takeaways:Networking and Relationship Building:Tim’s success in this deal highlighted the importance of maintaining good relationships with contractors, neighbors, and other stakeholders in the real estate industry. An open line of communication can often lead to new opportunities.Opportunistic Mindset:Being present and attentive during property renovations can present unforeseen chances to acquire new properties at favorable prices.Negotiating the Purchase PriceThe neighbor initially asked for $150,000, but after assessing the property and understanding the seller's needs, Tim successfully negotiated the price down to $130,000. This $20,000 reduction set the foundation for a profitable investment.Key Takeaways:Negotiation Skills:Tim’s ability to negotiate effectively saved him a substantial amount on the purchase price. Understanding the seller’s motivations and maintaining a flexible negotiation stance is crucial.Assessing Property Value:Conducting a thorough property valuation, including an understanding of After Repair Value (ARV), is essential in negotiations.Leveraging Financing: Private Money and Profit CentersTim financed the property using private money, borrowing a total of $130,000 from two private lenders. The strategic use of private money enabled Tim to acquire the property without using his capital while structuring repayment terms that supported a positive cash flow.Key Takeaways:Private Money:Utilizing private lenders can provide flexible financing options, often with more favorable terms compared to traditional lending institutions.Multiple Profit Centers:Tim created several profit centers through this deal, including monthly cash flow, a nonrefundable lease option deposit, and potential appreciation upon sale.Innovative Selling Strategy: Work for EquityTim’s decision to sell the property through a lease option with a "work for equity" component was a masterstroke. This approach not only minimized his upfront renovation costs but also incentivized the buyer to invest in the property’s improvement.Key Takeaways:Work for Equity Concept:Allowing buyers to reduce their purchase price by undertaking necessary repairs encourages them to buy into the property's value and care for it. Tim’s buyers stand to receive a $10,000 credit for completing specific agreed-upon repairs.Reducing Risk and Increasing Profit:This strategy reduced Tim's risk and repair costs while increasing the property's sale price to $187,000, considerably higher than its ARV.Monthly Cash Flow and Final Profit AnalysisPost-financing, Tim’s monthly outgoing payments to his private lenders totaled $940. His lease option agreement brought in $1,450 a month, leading to a net positive cash flow of $284.34.Key Takeaways:

Real estate investing is an exciting and potentially lucrative venture, but it requires a comprehensive understanding of the market, strategic planning, and access to resources, particularly funding. In a recent episode of the Raising Private Money podcast, Jay Conner and PMA member Erica Camardelle gave listeners an in-depth breakdown of how to execute a successful real estate deal using private money.Today we will unpack the key takeaways from Erica's deal and provide actionable insights that can help you navigate your own real estate investments profitably.The Importance of Understanding Seller MotivationOne of the pivotal lessons Erica shared was understanding the seller's motivation. This allows investors to better tailor their offers and negotiations.Identifying Key Motivations:Inheritance:The seller had inherited the property from her parents.Out-of-State Ownership:Living in a different state made managing the property inefficient for her.These factors compounded to create a seller who was highly motivated to offload the property quickly, providing Erica with a leverage point in negotiations.Negotiation Tip: Always dig deeper into the seller's circumstances. Understanding their motivations can provide hidden advantages in structuring your offer.Leveraging Private Money for Real Estate DealsErica and Jay detailed the significance of private lending, which can make or break a deal, particularly in competitive markets.Utilizing Private Lenders:Borrowing Against After Repaired Value (ARV):Erica borrowed 75% of the ARV ($166,000), amounting to $125,000. This ratio ensures a financial buffer, minimizing the investor's risks.Establishing Long-term Lender Relationships:Erica’s success stemmed from a long-standing relationship with her private lender over several years. This not only facilitated quick access to funds but also built trust over time.Pro Tip: Building and nurturing relationships with private lenders can lead to more favorable terms and quick approvals, crucial for seizing opportunities swiftly.Effective Property Valuation and BudgetingUnderstanding property valuation and accurately budgeting repairs are cornerstones of successful real estate ventures.Valuation Approach:ARV Calculation:The after-repaired value was set conservatively at $166,000. Despite this, Erica listed it for $185,000 based on market dynamics, which illustrates a strategic risk-taking approach to maximize profits.Budgeting Repairs:Predictive Budgeting:Erica initially budgeted $20,000 for repairs but managed to spend only $15,000. This conservative overestimation helps in dealing with unforeseen issues.Carrying Costs:Six months of holding costs were budgeted. This includes accounting for taxes, insurance, and private lender interest, ensuring no financial surprises.Investor Insight: Always budget for higher than anticipated repair costs and consider listing slightly higher than the ARV to attract potential buyers willing to pay more.Calculating Net Profits and Key MetricsJay Conner emphasized the need for accurate calculations to understand the true profit from a real estate deal.Net Profit Breakdown:Sale Price:Listed at $185,000.Expenses Subtraction:Purchase Price: $96,000Repairs: $15,000Realtor Fees: 5%, approximately $9,250Private Lender Interest: $5,000Taxes and Insurance: Estimated at $2,250Following these deductions, the net profit was calculated to be approximately $57,500.Understanding MAO (Maximum Allowable Offer):MAO Calculation:

***Guest AppearanceCredits to:https://www.youtube.com/@jasonbalara6929 "Raising Private Money with Jay Conner | Know your WHY"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KPGp8HHtd6Q   On the latest episode of the Raising Private Money, podcast we have an inspiring conversation between Jay Conner and Dr. Jason Balara on his Know Your Why podcast. Jay Conner dives deep into the nuances of raising private money and the resilience needed to succeed in real estate investing. With a background in traditional banking turned private lending expert, Jay Conner offers invaluable insights and inspiring stories that illustrate the power of persistence, a strategic mindset, and the importance of understanding your "why."Facing the Fear: Jay Conner’s Early ChallengesJay Conner begins by recounting the nervousness he faced when asking for a private lending loan for the first time. Overcoming such nerve-wracking experiences is crucial, and Jay emphasizes that action is the antidote to anxiety. His initial discomfort didn't deter him but rather fueled his drive to become proficient in raising private money.The Breakthrough Luncheon: A Turning Point in FundraisingJay's notable breakthrough came during his first private lender luncheon, a strategic event where he successfully raised $969,000 in verbal pledges within just one hour. This massive achievement, despite his initial discomfort, underscores the significance of preparation and a well-crafted presentation. He used a PowerPoint presentation to educate attendees on the private lending program, effectively communicating the benefits and security of investing.Learning from Failure: The John Maxwell PrincipleA recurring theme in the discussion is resilience through failure. Jay quotes leadership expert, John Maxwell, stating, "Success comes from failing more often," highlighting that every failure is a step towards success if viewed as a learning opportunity. Both Jay and Jason Balara draw parallels between business and sports, emphasizing that just as athletes like Michael Jordan succeeded by persisting through failure, so too must entrepreneurs and investors.Key Strategies for Securing Private FundsJay's approach to securing private funds is rooted in education and relationship building. By positioning himself as a "private money teacher," he shifts the focus from asking for money to offering an investment opportunity. This methodology not only enhances trust but also attracts potential lenders through the promise of high returns and secured investment.Additionally, Jay shares his unique strategy called the "great news phone call," informing lenders when their money is needed for a deal. This preemptive approach ensures that funds are readily available without the need for constant pitching, making the process smoother and more efficient.Mindset Shift: Overcoming Initial DiscomfortTransitioning from discomfort to confidence is a crucial part of Jay's journey. He acknowledges that initial discomfort is natural when venturing into new territory but asserts that practice and persistence lead to growing competence and comfort. Quoting Crystal Baker, Jay affirms, "Life begins at the end of your comfort zone," which is a mantra that underscores the growth experienced from tackling challenges head-on.The Importance of Resilience: Lessons from Personal ExperiencesJay shares a touching personal anecdote about his grandfather teaching him resilience. After being thrown off a pony, young Jay was encouraged to get back on, instilling a lifelong lesson in persistence. This lesson translated into his business life, especially when traditional banks cut off his credit

***Guest AppearanceCredits to:https://www.youtube.com/@bradleysugars "Following Your Purpose: How Jay Conner Discovered the Opportunity of Private Lenders in Real Estate"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iJPJqgxDZME  Welcome back to another exciting episode of the Raising Private Money podcast! Today, Jay Conner had an insightful conversation with Brad Sugars on his The Big Success podcast!From a young age, Jay Conner knew his true calling was to teach. Fast forward to 2011, and this dream came to fruition when he began coaching real estate investors, a mission driven not just by financial outcomes, but by a burning desire to positively impact others. Jay’s definition of success transcends wealth; it’s deeply rooted in passion and purpose. By emphasizing the importance of making a difference, Jay aims to inspire others to seek a higher purpose beyond financial gains. This ethos has shaped his approach to teaching and mentoring, making a significant impression on the real estate community.Success Defined: Passion and Purpose Beyond ProfitsJay Conner’s definition of success moves beyond the simplistic idea of wealth accumulation. To him, success encompasses pursuing one's passions and making a meaningful impact on the lives of others. This philosophy is reflected in his work, where he combines his real estate expertise with a deep commitment to mentoring and teaching. For Jay, true success involves helping others realize their potential and find their paths to fulfillment. This is the hallmark of his career as an educator and real estate coach.Influential Beginnings: Lessons from the Family BusinessGrowing up in an environment of success, particularly observing his father's business endeavors, had a profound impact on Jay. At the age of 12, he was already immersed in a setting that emphasized the importance of surrounding oneself with successful individuals—a notion famously underscored by motivational speaker Jim Rohn. These early experiences laid a strong foundation for Jay’s entrepreneurial journey, where he saw firsthand the value of mentorship and networking in achieving success.Transformation and Lifelong LearningA pivotal moment in Jay's life came at the age of 24 when dissatisfaction with his lifestyle spurred a transformation. Fueled by Og Mandino's "University of Success," Jay embarked on a path of continuous learning and self-improvement. This book not only helped him shift his mindset but also ignited a lifelong passion for personal development. Since then, he has avidly consumed self-help books and autobiographies, continually learning from those who have achieved success. This commitment to growth and learning has been a cornerstone of his personal and professional life.The Power of Goals and PlanningOne of the critical insights Jay shares is the importance of setting and regularly reviewing goals. By updating them every four months, he ensures they are aligned with current opportunities and challenges. Jay's approach to short-term planning reflects his understanding of the unpredictable nature of life and business. This pragmatism is also shared by fellow podcaster, Ryan Pineda, who avoids scheduling appointments more than 30 days in advance. Both emphasize the necessity of flexibility and adaptability in achieving long-term success.Embracing Failure as a Learning OpportunityJay Conner's perspective on failure is deeply influenced by David Meltzer's philosophy of viewing failures as lessons rather than mistakes. He recounts stories from his real estate career where setbacks became opportunities for growth and improvement. By treating challenges as opportunities to rethink and refine his approaches, J

Welcome to one of the most important podcast episodes you’ll hear all year! In this game-changing episode, we uncover the hard truth that most real estate investors don’t want to face: The majority of them will fail in 2025.But here’s the kicker—it’s not because they can’t find deals. The deals are out there. The real reason they’ll fail is simple: they won’t have the funding to close those deals.If you’ve ever walked away from a deal because you couldn’t find the money fast enough—or felt stuck, frustrated, and like you’re one deal away from a breakthrough—this episode is for you!Join us as we uncover why funding is the #1 barrier holding most real estate investors back and why private money is the ultimate key to break through those limitations. You’ll also hear the inspiring story of Carly Mannino, who attended her very first real estate event, made ONE phone call, and raised $90,000 in private money—leading to her first deal!  Whether you’re brand new to real estate or a seasoned investor looking to scale, this episode will show you how to dominate 2025 by unlocking the power of private money.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why most real estate investors will fail in 2025 (and how to avoid being one of them).  The #1 reason deals fall through—and how to get the money need to close fast. Why relying on banks or personal cash is a losing game in today’s fast-moving market. How private money gives you access to an endless stream of capital to close more deals, quickly. The inspiring real-life success story of Carly Mannino, who raised $90,000 in private money on her very first phone call after attending a private money event. Don’t Miss Your Opportunity to Dominate 2025If you’re serious about taking your real estate investing business to the next level, you can’t afford to miss my 3-day, live event happening February 12th–14th in Atlantic Beach, North Carolina.At this event, you’ll learn:  Proven scripts to confidently approach private lenders. How to structure deals so they’re a win-win for everyone involved.  The secrets to building long-lasting relationships with private money partners who will fund deal after deal.  This isn’t theory—it’s hands-on, actionable training designed to help you take control of your funding, close more deals, and grow your business without limits.  Tickets are just $97—and that covers TWO people! Bring a partner, friend, or business associate with you and learn together.  Reserve Your Spot Now!Seats are limited, and they’re filling up fast. Don’t wait until it’s too late—2025 is already here, and every day you wait is another missed opportunity.  👉 Grab your tickets now at jayconner.com/eventLet’s make 2025 the year you dominate your market, fund your deals with confidence, and finally build the real estate business you’ve always dreamed of.  Connect with Me:- Website: [jayconner.com](http://jayconner.com)  - Register for the Event: [jayconner.com/event](http://jayconner.com/event)  CTA Reminder:👉 Don’t miss your chance. Reserve your spot today at jayconner.com/event](http://jayconner.com/event)!

***Guest AppearanceCredits to:https://www.youtube.com/@harcourtsauctions "Private Investing for Realtors: How to Build Your Private Lending Network from Scratch"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2lo11foe4oE&t=9s In a dynamic real estate market, the ability to secure funding can often determine an investor's success or failure. Jay Conner's insights into raising private money offer a revolutionary approach that can transform your real estate ventures, making funding more accessible and flexible.Welcome back to another insightful episode of the Raising Private Money podcast! If you're a real estate investor eager to master the art of raising and leveraging private money, you're in the right place. Today, Jay Conner joins Ben Brady in his Rethink Real Estate Podcast where they dive deep into the world of private money in real estate, they discuss the strategies behind raising significant funds without ever having to ask for a dime directly. Jay shares his journey and effective methods that have helped him raise over $8 million, even in tough financial times.The Challenges of Traditional FundingTraditional funding sources such as banks and institutional lenders come with their own set of challenges. For instance, during economic downturns, banks tighten their lending criteria, making it difficult for investors to secure loans. This was evident during the global financial crisis when many investors found their lines of credit abruptly closed. Today's high interest rates and stringent lending requirements continue to pose similar challenges, making traditional funding less reliable.Enter Private MoneyPrivate money represents a more flexible and reliable way to finance real estate deals. Essentially, this involves doing business with individual lenders rather than institutional ones, allowing investors to set the terms and streamline the process. This method provides a more straightforward way to secure funding without the typical red tape associated with banks.An innovative approach to raising private money eliminates the discomfort of asking for capital. Instead, the process involves educating potential lenders about the benefits and returns of investing in real estate, transforming the conversation into one of mutual benefit rather than a plea for funds.The Process: Teaching, Not BeggingOne of the key aspects of raising private money is overcoming the fear of rejection. By focusing on teaching potential lenders about the process and benefits of private money, investors can eliminate the fear associated with asking for funds. This approach involves separating the educational conversation from specific deal discussions.Initially, investors educate lenders about private money, interest rates, and the overall investment program without mentioning any specific deals. Once the lender is comfortable and understands the potential benefits, specific deals can be introduced, making the entire process more palatable and less stressful.Setting the TermsPrivate lenders need clear details about the terms of their investments. Offering an 8% annual interest rate is a straightforward and attractive proposition, especially when compared to traditional investments like CDs, which yield much lower returns. All loans are collateralized by real estate, providing security for the lenders and making the investment more attractive.How Much Money Do You Need to Raise?Determining how much money to raise depends on several factors, including the investor's market, the average property price, and the projected number of deals each year. By using a simple formula, investors can calculate

***Guest AppearanceCredits to:https://www.youtube.com/@TheClosingTablePod "Jay Conner Discusses Private Money Raising"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cNtgseDPZMkToday, on the Raising Private Money podcast, Jay Conner had an amazing time joining Kat Schooler on The Closing Table Podcast. During the discussion, Jay elucidated the stability of private money lending compared to traditional investment avenues and shared invaluable insights on attracting private lenders. Here's an in-depth look into the segments of their dialogue.Stability of Private Money Lending vs. Stock MarketJay Conner draws a clear distinction between private money lending and stock market investments. Unlike the stock market, where values fluctuate wildly, private money offers a more stable route. When lending private money, the principal amount remains constant until cash-out, behaving similarly to a bank CD. This stability allows for predictable returns, an invaluable feature for any investor looking to mitigate risk.Finding Private Lenders: Three Essential CategoriesJay lays out a comprehensive strategy for finding private lenders, categorizing them into three pivotal groups:Personal Connections: Utilize your existing network. Family, friends, social media contacts, and community members are all potential sources of private money. Jay emphasizes that an active online presence, akin to his, can bolster these efforts significantly.Expanded Warm Market: Build and grow your connections by joining networking groups like Business Networking International (BNI). These groups offer a fertile ground for expanding your influence and tapping into broader financial resources.Existing Private Lenders: Seek out individuals who already have self-directed IRA accounts. These seasoned investors are often keen on private lending opportunities and understand the mechanism and benefits involved.Leveraging Social Media to Attract LendersOne of the significant revelations from the discussion is the compelling use of social media for attracting private lenders. Jay advises using platforms like Facebook and Instagram to showcase ongoing projects and successful deals. However, he cautions against directly mentioning terms like "private lending." Instead, he advocates creating curiosity by inviting questions, which compels potential lenders to reach out for more information.Personal Journey and Transition to Real EstateJay Conner’s journey from the mobile home industry to real estate investing is both inspiring and instructive. His transition was catalyzed by a significant disruption in 2002 when Wall Street funding for manufactured housing was cut off. By 2003, Jay had pivoted to flipping single-family homes, a venture that has seen him rehab over 500 homes with substantial average profits per deal.A key challenge early in his career was assembling a reliable team. He underscores the importance of delegating tasks and avoiding the pitfalls of trying to handle everything alone. This realization led to automating his business operations, enabling him to work a lean 5-7 hours per week while focusing on education and teaching others through platforms like his podcast, "Raising Private Money."The Game Changer: Private Money Post-2008 CrisisJay recounts the 2008 financial crisis, which abruptly closed his line of credit. This crisis turned into an opportunity when fellow investor Jeff Blankenship introduced him to private money lending using self-directed IRAs. In an impressive feat, Jay raised $2,150,000 from private lenders within just 90 days without any direct solicitation for funds.Jay underscores the importance of s

In the latest episode of "Raising Private Money," Jay Conner dives deep into the nuances of mortgage note investing and private money with his good friend, Jamie Bateman. Renowned for his success in raising over $3,000,000 in private money, Jamie shares his journey and insights into leveraging mortgage notes as a powerful investment vehicle. This episode is a goldmine for both seasoned investors and newcomers looking to expand their portfolios. Let's break down the themes and insights discussed during this illuminating conversation.Jay Conner's Real Estate WisdomA Wealth of ExperienceJay Conner, a real estate investor who began his journey in 2003, has rehabbed over 500 houses. His experience spans various facets of real estate, making him a credible guide for aspiring investors. Conner emphasizes one crucial lesson: avoid operating in isolation. He avows that seeking mentorship from experts can save you from costly mistakes and accelerate your path to success.Jamie Bateman on Mortgage NotesThe Strategic AdvantageJamie Bateman, a prominent voice in mortgage note investing, emphasizes the versatility of this investment strategy. Mortgage notes offer a unique advantage: you can invest across state lines without ever visiting the properties. This location independence is a game-changer, making it easier to diversify your investment portfolio.Moreover, mortgage notes come with a relatively low barrier to entry. Utilizing a licensed loan servicer simplifies compliance and licensing hurdles. This ease of access complements existing residential real estate investing experience and provides opportunities for creative and analytical investment strategies. However, Jamie notes that mortgage notes lack inherent tax advantages. Fortunately, this limitation can be mitigated with self-directed accounts.Passive Investors' OpportunityJamie offers a tantalizing glimpse into the potential for passive investors to earn high returns by partnering with him. For those interested, Jamie’s platform offers pathways to explore these lucrative opportunities further.Understanding Private Money in Real EstateSecuring Single-Family HousesJay Conner elucidates how private money underpins real estate transactions, particularly in single-family houses. Utilizing promissory notes to secure private lenders is a prudent strategy, complemented by collateral via a deed of trust or mortgage. Insurance policies include private lenders as mortgagees, and Conner maintains a conservative loan-to-value ratio of 75%. Additionally, a 90-day call option provides a safety net for emergencies.Collateral and Mortgage NotesMortgage notes employ a similar protective measure through hypothecation, where the note and deed of trust serve as collateral. An illustrative example is purchasing a $70,000 principal balance note for $50,000 and borrowing $30,000 against it. Such flexibility in terms is mutually agreed upon between lender and borrower, making mortgage notes a versatile investment vehicle.Jamie Bateman’s JourneyTransition from Defense to EntrepreneurshipJamie Bateman’s career transition exemplifies the allure of real estate for control and flexibility. After 14 years at the Department of Defense, Jamie ventured into real estate, leveraging his family background in the field. His journey began with rental properties using the BRRR method and pivoted to mortgage notes in 2018. Jamie’s varied experiences, including title work, have enriched his investment acumen.Evolving Strategies in Raising CapitalOrganic GrowthJamie shares his organic approach to raising private money: documenting his investment journey on social media and blogs attracted interest from potential investors. This visibility led to his first substantial investment from a former col

In a recent episode of the Raising Private Money podcast, Jay Conner engaged with Ian Horowitz, a seasoned real estate investor and co-founder of Equity Warehouse. Through a rich and informative discussion, Ian Horowitz shared his journey, challenges, and invaluable advice for newcomers and seasoned investors alike in the real estate market.The Realities of Real Estate InvestmentOvercoming Initial Challenges and MisconceptionsIan Horowitz candidly discusses the numerous challenges and misconceptions about real estate investing, noting how difficult the process can be for those new to the field. Despite the high reward potential, real estate investment involves a steep learning curve, complex financial decisions, and a significant time commitment. For anyone hoping to transition smoothly into this field, it is essential to approach the process with an informed perspective and adequate preparation.Embracing a Diverse Investment NetworkThe Power of Community through CRE SyndicateIan also elaborates on the importance of a diverse group of participants in his meetups, the CRE Syndicate, which focuses on commercial real estate investments. The meetups welcome a variety of experience levels—from beginners to sophisticated investors. This diversity creates a supportive and enriching environment where experiences and knowledge are shared, establishing a strong sense of community. These meetups also teach one of Ian's key principles: to start hosting meetups without overthinking them and to expect initial challenges.Building Credibility and CommunityThe Role of Meetups for Real Estate SuccessSuccessful real estate investment is grounded in solid networking, continuous learning, and community building. Ian says meetups don’t need predetermined themes for every session but can evolve based on group interests and feedback. Organizations can ensure better follow-through and consistent engagement by scheduling meetings in advance. Ian co-hosts a monthly meetup at a local firehouse in Pennsylvania, which serves as a platform for networking, sharing experiences, and fostering personal relationships with potential investors. Emphasis is placed on educating the participants without pressuring them into sales, thus building credibility and trust.Financial Strategies and Investment OpportunitiesIan’s Investment Journey and Financial EvolutionIan recounted his first venture into real estate, purchasing a property for $25,000 and using high-interest hard money loans for renovation. Though initially lacking financial savvy, he learned through experience, negotiating better terms with lenders and turning to friends and family for funding. His journey wasn’t devoid of skepticism or support; while some colleagues were doubtful, others showed financial interest without wanting operational involvement. Communication and transparency about his work gradually attracted more investment interest.Ian underscores the importance of offering lucrative investment opportunities and creating mutually beneficial financial arrangements. Equity Warehouse, the company he co-founded, offers co-investment or co-lending experiences, ensuring preferred returns and participation in property equity. Highlighting a recent project, Ian detailed converting a 55,000-square-foot office building into a flex space, funded through a mix of loans and investor capital.Navigating the Funding LandscapePrivate Money and Institutional LoansThe episode emphasizes the critical role of funding in real estate ventures. Jay Conner and Ian examined the contrast between raising private money and borrowing institutional money. Raising private money often stems from necessity, such as needing gap funding, and involves setting terms attractively for investors. In contrast, institutional loans come with predetermine

In the world of commercial real estate, gaining financial freedom isn't just a dream—it's an achievable goal. As discussed by host Jonathan Hayek and guest Jay Conner in this insightful episode of the Scott Paton Podcast, understanding the intricate details of raising capital, fostering meaningful relationships, and having a strategic investment approach are pivotal for success.Raising Capital for Real EstateOne of the first steps towards achieving financial freedom in commercial real estate involves raising capital. Jonathan Hayek highlights that while familiarity with real estate can be beneficial, it’s not strictly necessary. Interestingly, his initial deal was made possible by borrowing $110,000 from a contact named Ryan via a self-directed IRA, and another $50,000 from a friend. This emphasizes that leveraging personal networks can be an effective strategy for securing funds.Moreover, having a proven track record can significantly attract private money lenders. Hayek himself leveraged a mix of funding sources which included private money, hard money, balance transfers from credit cards, and local banks. He stresses the importance of presenting specific deals with clear terms to potential investors rather than vague promises of future opportunities.Strategic Investment ApproachesBoth Jonathan Hayek and Jay Conner emphasize a non-aggressive approach when it comes to finding investors. Rather than chasing or begging for money, they advocate for building genuine relationships. Hayek stresses the importance of attracting investors who are confident, financially secure, and a good fit for the deal.Straightforwardly presenting investment opportunities is crucial. It promotes trust and clarity, which, in turn, can lead to successful, long-term investment partnerships. A critical takeaway from their discussion is that the quality of investors often outweighs the quantity.Growing Mindset and Overcoming Limiting BeliefsJonathan Hayek's journey from being a special education teacher and non-profit worker to a full-time real estate investor underscores the importance of personal growth and overcoming limiting beliefs. He shares how he realized the need for greater financial growth and decided to pursue bigger goals.One of Hayek’s personal growth strategies involves adopting mantras like "You're Not Thinking Big Enough." He encourages listeners to challenge deeply ingrained beliefs, many of which are rooted in childhood, to achieve their true potential. This mindset shift enabled him to leave his job and fully commit to real estate, exploring non-traditional opportunities such as industrial deals.Building a Sustainable BusinessA key insight from this episode is the concept of "rightsizing" your business to fit individual, family, and lifestyle needs, as discussed by Jay Conner. Jonathan Hayek emphasizes understanding one's "why" in real estate to avoid the pervasive pressure of constant scaling driven by social media influences. Bigger isn't always better; the focus should be on creating a business that aligns with personal goals, whether it’s spending more time with family or enjoying freedom.The Power of Networks and ReferralsTrust and relationships are central to raising private money. Jay Conner and Jonathan Hayek both highlight that investors essentially invest in the person, based on reliability and trustworthiness. Jonathan's network of lenders is primarily based on established relationships with friends and family, leveraging their faith in his ability to manage their investments securely.Additionally, referrals play a crucial role. By delivering successful deals, Jonathan and Jay have benefited from referrals from existing lenders, further broadening their network and enhancing their investment opportunities.Real Estate Investment StrategiesJonathan Hayek has a focused app