Raising Private Money with Jay Conner

***Guest AppearanceCredits to:https://www.youtube.com/@creativefinanceplaybook "Private Money Mastery: How Jay Conner Transformed Real Estate Investing"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R9yBCTSMkZU If you’re a real estate investor (or striving to become one), the challenge isn’t always about finding the right property. More often, it’s about finding the money to fund your deals, especially when traditional financing decides to turn off the tap, and that can happen faster than you think.On a recent podcast episode, seasoned investor Jay Conner sat down with Jenn and Joe Delle Fave to peel back the curtain on the game-changing role private money played in his real estate business—an approach that not only rescued his investing career but tripled his business during one of the most trying economic times in recent history.The Moment Everything ChangedJay Conner, along with his wife Carol Joy, had been successfully investing in single-family homes in Morehead City, North Carolina, since 2003. Like many, he relied on the steady comfort of a bank line of credit to fund his deals. That all changed in January 2009 at the height of the financial crisis. Without warning, his bank (and trusted banker, Steve) pulled the plug: his line of credit was closed, and new loans to real estate investors dried up overnight.Faced with two lucrative deals under contract and no way to close them, Jay’s back was against the wall. But rather than seeing an insurmountable problem, he asked the transformative question: “Who do I know that can help me with this problem?” That question led him to an introduction to private money—and ultimately, to financial freedom.What Is Private Money Lending?Private money in real estate refers to funds lent by individuals (not institutions) to investors, typically secured by real estate. These individuals often don’t even know they want to be lenders until someone shows them what’s possible, like using their retirement accounts (self-directed IRAs) to earn outsized, secure returns.For Jay, learning about private money meant a total mindset shift. Instead of begging the bank, he became the one offering an opportunity. He began teaching people in his network—friends, church members, business contacts—about private lending. No hard selling, no desperate asks. Just education and a willingness to be transparent about how the process worked and the secure, solid returns they could earn.The Power of Private Money: How It Changed the GameWhen Jay started implementing private money strategies, the results were immediate and dramatic. He raised over $2 million in new funding in under 90 days. Within a year, his business had tripled, even as many other real estate investors were leaving the business entirely due to a lack of financing.Jay explained that private money brought several advantages:Flexibility: The investor sets the terms, not the bank. That includes interest rates, payment schedules, and what deals get funded.No Limits: Unlike bank lines of credit, private lenders are only limited by their comfort and resources, not an arbitrary ceiling.Speed: Jay has closed deals in as little as five days, a feat impossible with institutional lenders.Profitability: In his market, he achieved average profits of $82,000 per deal, doing only two to three deals a month, thanks largely to the reliability and ease of private funding.Teaching, Not SellingJay’s secret sauce is in his approach: separate the teaching about private money from pitching a specific deal. He positions himself as a guide and trusted resource, only calling interested lenders when he has an actual investment for their funds. “Desperation has a s

***Guest AppearanceCredits to:https://www.youtube.com/@CommercialRealEstateProNetwork "Raising Private Money with Jay Conner - CRE PN #481"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MrWWFWU5eGsAre you a real estate investor struggling to secure funding for your deals? Maybe the banks have gotten a little too picky with their lending criteria, or perhaps you’re just tired of jumping through endless hoops for a loan. Jay Conner, affectionately known as “The Private Money Authority,” has walked this road and came out on the other side with a strategy anyone in real estate can leverage: raising private money.Jay Conner once again joined Darrin Gross on the CREPN Radio podcast, Jay shared his story, a compelling blend of humble beginnings, tough pivots, and the ability to turn problems into powerful opportunities.From Bank Roadblocks to OpportunityJay’s journey in real estate began like many others: he visited the local bank, applied for funding, and went through the usual song and dance of credit checks, financial statements, and asset reviews. For several years, this status quo worked fine. But in 2009, everything changed. Without warning, his line of credit was closed, leaving him with two properties under contract and nowhere to turn. As Jay recalls, “Desperation has a smell to it. I had a problem, not an opportunity.”Faced with a true financial crisis (not just another “opportunity in disguise” quote people love to share), Jay leaned into his relationships and asked, “Who do I know that can help me solve this problem?” That question led him to a colleague who introduced him to the concept of private money and self-directed IRAs, sparking a complete transformation in his approach to deal funding.The Private Money BlueprintJay’s method is refreshingly straightforward and, perhaps most importantly, approachable for both seasoned and new investors. Rather than chasing after people and desperately pitching deals, Jay puts on his “teacher hat.” He focuses on educating potential private lenders—often people in his existing network or local community—about what private money is, how it works, and why it’s a win-win opportunity.He explains, “Not one of my 47 private lenders had ever heard of private money or self-directed IRAs. I simply taught them.” By presenting a clear, safe, and attractive program to would-be lenders, Jay flips the script, positioning himself not as a beggar but as a provider of opportunity.The three things lenders care about most?Attractive Return: Private lenders are often frustrated with the low interest rates on traditional vehicles like CDs. Jay offers up to 8% or 10%—well above what banks are paying.Security and Safety: Every loan is collateralized with a mortgage or deed of trust, up to 75% of after-repair value, giving substantial equity protection.No Volatility: Unlike the unpredictable stock market, lenders know exactly what their return will be for the life of the loan.The No-Sell ApproachOne point Jay hammered home was the importance of separating “raising money” from pitching specific deals. The worst time to ask for money is when you need it for a deal. By building the relationship and educating potential lenders ahead of time, when the right opportunity comes along, it’s not a hard sell—it’s just a “good news phone call:” “I have a deal ready for you, here’s the terms, here’s the timeline.” No pressure, no awkward conversations. Just a smooth transaction.Mindset MattersFor those interested in starting their journey with private money, Jay stresses the importance of mindset. See yourself not as a borrower, but as someone leading with a servant’s heart, helping people get better returns safely

In the dynamic world of real estate investing, one challenge consistently rises to the top: finding motivated seller leads. On a recent episode of “Raising Private Money,” host Jay Conner, nationally recognized as the Private Money Authority, sat down with Nicholas Nick, founder of Lead Mining Pros, to talk shop on innovative, practical lead generation strategies that can skyrocket your investing business, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting.From Restaurants to Real Estate: The Nicholas Nick JourneyNicholas Nick’s path to real estate marketing is anything but typical. Before founding Lead Mining Pros, he spent over a decade in the restaurant industry, managing massive teams and enduring grueling workweeks. This experience fostered in him a fearless mindset and a deep understanding of people—two essential skills for real estate success.His leap from hospitality to real estate came through event coordination at a major real estate coaching company. Here, he discovered all investors' pain points: wasted money on inefficient marketing, especially direct mail campaigns with little to show for it.A pivotal moment came when a client, devastated after spending $5,000 on direct mail without a single call in return, reached out for help. Nick realized there had to be a better way, and so he shifted his approach from costly, passive marketing to proactive cold calling. This hands-on shift not only saved money but also began bringing in results.The Birth of Lead Mining ProsStarting, Nicholas personally cold-called hundreds of potential leads every day. Word spread quickly among his peers, who soon began hiring him to generate leads for their businesses. This grassroots, performance-driven approach laid the foundation for Lead Mining Pros, which now generates over $38,000 a week in sales, helping real estate investors build a robust lead pipeline.What makes Lead Mining Pros different? According to Nicholas, it’s the combination of tailored lists, high-accuracy skip tracing, and a choice between American or foreign cold callers—each ideal for different markets or strategies. “Niche lists or land? Choose an American caller for the best rapport. Saturated markets or high volumes? Foreign callers, at a third of the cost, get the job done,” Nick advises.Additionally, Lead Mining Pros offers comprehensive, done-for-you texting campaigns and, perhaps most importantly, top-tier customer service. New real estate investors don’t just get leads—they get direct access to Nicholas himself for coaching, feedback, and campaign optimization. Free online courses and weekly check-ins ensure that clients get the most from every campaign, and, crucially, learn how to convert warm leads into hot deals.What Works Best: Calls, Texts, or Direct Mail?Jay Conner and Nicholas Nick share a vital takeaway: the most effective lead generation strategy depends on your budget, goals, and willingness to roll up your sleeves. If funds allow, running direct mail, calling, and texting campaigns simultaneously can help you gather invaluable data and maximize response rates. But if you need to prioritize, start with cold calling and texting. These channels not only tend to generate more leads for less money, but they also allow for rapid testing and adjustment.That said, calling and texting do require real hustle. “You can’t be an armchair quarterback with a calling campaign,” Nicholas stresses. “If you process and systematize your approach, you can outperform direct mail. But you have to be ready to work those leads.”Converting More Leads: The Secret SauceA persistent issue for investors is making contact with a lead after the initial inquiry. Nicholas’s solution: persistence and a structured follow-up sequence. He recommends up to 18 touches (calls, texts, and voicemails) per lead, ensuring no opportunity slips through the cra

***Guest AppearanceCredits to:https://www.youtube.com/@garretwong   "Startup Funding Explained: Everything You Need to Know"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TzU9FmuVRDM In the ever-evolving world of real estate investing, access to capital can make or break a deal. But what happens when traditional funding sources dry up or become too restrictive? This was exactly the dilemma faced by Jay Conner, a seasoned real estate investor in Eastern North Carolina, whose journey and strategies were explored in depth on a recent episode of the “Investing to Win” podcast with Garret Wong.From Banks to Private Money: Jay’s Turning PointFor the first six years of his real estate career, Jay relied solely on institutional financing—local banks and traditional money sources to fund his single-family home deals. But as the 2008-2009 financial crisis arrived, Jay, like many investors, found his credit lines abruptly closed by the bank, jeopardizing multiple deals overnight. Instead of throwing in the towel, Jay asked himself a powerful question: Who do I know that can help me with this problem?That introspection led him to Jeff Blankenship, a fellow investor who introduced Jay to the world of private money and self-directed IRAs. This new approach, Jay quickly learned, didn’t depend on bank approvals or credit scores but rather on relationships and transparency.What Is Private Money?Private money, as Jay describes, is direct investment from individuals, not institutions or hard money lenders. It’s a one-on-one relationship where investors loan funds secured against real estate, often using capital from personal savings or retirement accounts. Unlike hard money brokers who pool funds into lending operations (and charge higher rates and fees), true private lenders work directly with the investor.Jay emphasizes that private lenders come from all walks of life. Most of his 47 active private lenders wouldn’t consider themselves sophisticated or accredited; many are teachers, civil servants, and retirees simply seeking better and safer returns on their investments.Key Benefits of Private Money LendingWhy does Jay champion private money with such passion? He lists several compelling advantages:Flexibility and Speed: Without lengthy bank underwriting, deals can often close in as little as five to seven days—sometimes a lifesaver for properties facing foreclosure or competitive bidding.Fewer Restrictions: Private lenders don’t cap the number of deals or the size of your line of credit. Jay’s deals frequently involve borrowing up to 75% of the after-repaired value (ARV), and it’s common for him to leave the closing table with “excess cash to close”—funds above and beyond the purchase price, useful for renovations or reserves.No Appraisals or Red Tape: Instead of formal appraisals, Jay uses comparative market analyses (CMAs) to justify values to his lenders—trusted personal relationships eliminate most bureaucratic hurdles.True Win-Win: Lenders earn higher, predictable returns (Jay typically offers 8% straight, sometimes accruing during a flip or paid out monthly), while investors unlock funding quickly and efficiently.Building Trust and Educating LendersThe cornerstone of Jay’s approach isn’t just a promising rate—it’s education and transparency. He never pitches deals out of desperation or attaches a project to an initial conversation. Instead, he teaches potential lenders about the opportunity, shows them exactly how they’ll be protected, and only connects them to a specific deal when it matches what they want.Notably, Jay suggests that new investors leverage the credibility of an experienced partner or mentor when starting. If you haven’t completed

***Guest AppearanceCredits to:https://www.youtube.com/@hbgcapital662    "Professional Capital Raiser Shares How To Raise Money Immediately with Jay Conner"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=99BpAmJOs_w If you’re an aspiring or seasoned real estate investor, there’s one hurdle that inevitably determines your growth: access to capital. How do you finance deals when traditional banks close their doors, market conditions shift, or you simply want more flexibility and profit? Jay Conner, a recognized authority in private money for real estate, has plenty of answers—and in a recent conversation with Brandon Cobb, he broke down the essential strategies and mindset shifts that have allowed him to thrive through market cycles.From Bank Loans to Private Money: Jay’s BreakthroughJay Conner started investing in real estate in 2003, primarily focusing on single-family homes in the relatively small market of Eastern North Carolina. For years, he played by the traditional rules—going to local banks, submitting to their criteria, and letting lenders set the terms. That was until the financial crisis of 2009. Suddenly, despite a spotless record and strong deals under contract, Jay’s line of credit was closed with no warning.Faced with the potential collapse of his deals and business, Jay asked himself a critical question: “Who do you know that can help fix your problem?” This led him to an old friend, who introduced him to the world of private money—individuals willing to lend their personal funds or retirement accounts for real estate investments, often at competitive rates and flexible terms.The Teacher’s Mindset: Educating, Not BeggingJay’s approach flipped the typical script. Instead of chasing after money, he put on his “teacher hat.” He proactively educated his network—friends, fellow churchgoers, Rotary Club members, and other contacts—about what private lending was, how it worked, and the safe, lucrative returns they could earn.A crucial point: Jay never asked anyone for money directly. He simply explained his private lending program, laid out the potential and security, and let interest organically develop. The goal was building trust, demystifying the opportunity, and leading with a servant’s heart. As a result, he raised $2,150,000 in less than 90 days—without ever “pitching” a deal or acting out of desperation.Strategic Steps: Separating Education from the AskJay highlighted a key mistake many new investors make: mixing education about private lending with direct requests for funding on a specific deal. This can feel pushy and overwhelming, and it’s the fastest way to turn off a potential private lender. Instead, he recommends two separate steps:Educate First: Explain your lending program, rates, security, and process. Answer questions, build confidence, and see who is interested in principle.The Good News Call: When the right deal is available, you make a simple call: “I’ve got great news—I can now put your money to work on this deal.” This assumes the groundwork is already laid and the lender trusts you.Expanding Beyond Your Inner CircleWhat happens when you’ve tapped your immediate network? Jay suggests organizations like Business Networking International (BNI) or local Rotary Clubs, which allow you to grow contacts exponentially. These groups thrive on referrals, and, as the only real estate investor in the group, you’re uniquely positioned to connect with new potential lenders eager for better returns on their idle capital.Compliance & The Power of One-OffsA question that often arises: How do you make sure you’re staying within SEC and legal boundaries? Jay makes it clear he only does “one-off” deals—each lender fund

***Guest AppearanceCredits to:https://www.youtube.com/@mymenrichard "Private Money Lending with Jay Conner"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hTl7M1X3qb4 When it comes to scaling a real estate investing business, one of the biggest challenges investors face is sourcing reliable funding. Traditional routes—think bank loans and institutional finance—often come with red tape, long waits, and restrictive requirements. In a recent Raising Private Money podcast with Richard Lesperance and  Jay Conner, they cracked open the secrets of raising private money—a game-changing alternative for investors looking to close more deals, faster and with greater flexibility.What is Private Money?Put simply, private money refers to funding provided by individual investors rather than banks or hard money lenders. Jay highlights a key distinction: while hard money lenders act as intermediaries between investors and funds, private lenders are direct, one-on-one relationships. These individuals use their liquid capital or retirement accounts (often through self-directed IRAs) to passively invest in real estate, earning a healthy return while the borrower benefits from quick, customizable funding.Jay’s Journey from Banks to Private MoneyJay shares his own story: after years of relying on banks, his line of credit was suddenly cut off during the 2008 financial crisis, leaving him scrambling. This “problem” forced him to look for solutions outside the conventional system. A friend introduced him to the concept of private money, and within 90 days, Jay raised over $2 million in new funding—without ever asking for money directly.The secret? Jay adopted the role of a teacher. Instead of pitching or selling, he educated potential lenders about how private money works and the advantages it offered. This educational approach attracted 47 private lenders (and counting), many of whom had never heard of private lending or realized their retirement accounts could be used in this way. Where to Find Private LendersJay breaks it down into three main categories:Your Warm Market: Friends, family, colleagues, and contacts in your phone and social networks.Expanded Network: Connections made through networking, real estate events, and referrals.Existing Private Lenders: Individuals already lending to other investors, often found at self-directed IRA company networking events.According to Jay, over 70% of self-directed IRA holders are interested in loaning money to real estate investors, making these events rich ground for connection.Advantages of Using Private MoneyThe benefits, as Jay enthusiastically outlines, are many:Control: The borrower sets the terms—interest rate, payment frequency, and loan-to-value ratio.Speed: With no bank bureaucracy, deals can close in as little as seven days—a major advantage in a competitive market.No Application Hassles: No credit score checks or drawn-out approval processes.Unlimited Potential: Unlike banks, there’s no cap on how much private money you can access or how many deals you fund.Attractive Returns for Lenders: Lenders earn solid, secured returns (often much better than a local bank), creating a true win-win.Is it Safe?Investor and lender protection is paramount. Jay describes several safeguards:Funds are wired directly to the attorney or title company’s escrow account, never to the investor personally.Each loan is secured by a mortgage or deed of trust, never unsecured.A conservative loan-to-value (typically 75% of after-repair value) ensures a cushion for market fluctuations.Lenders are listed on insu

***Guest AppearanceCredits to:https://www.youtube.com/@EG_Developer "The Art of Raising Capital"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oo0HNrZOvtI If you’re a real estate investor or developer wrestling with the age-old question—how do I find funding for my deals?—You’re not alone. Most of us start in the same place: we turn to banks, endure rigorous credit checks, and cross our fingers that the funds come through. But as veteran investor Jay Conner shared in his interview with Eugene Gershman, there’s a better way: Raising Private Money.In this episode, we’ll break down Jay’s method for leveraging private lenders—a system that not only allows you to fund deals quickly but puts you firmly in the driver’s seat.The Bank Shutdown That Sparked a ChangeJay’s journey into private money began out of necessity. For years, he’d relied on banks, but in 2009, his line of credit was abruptly closed. With deals under contract and no financing in sight, he asked himself, “Who do I know that can help?” That call led him to the world of private money, where individuals, often using their retirement funds, can invest in real estate for higher, safer returns.Don’t Beg for Money: Teach InsteadOne of Jay’s core philosophies? Don’t chase money—attract it by teaching. Instead of pitching individual deals with desperation, Jay developed a private money “program.” He educated potential lenders on what private money is, how it works, and why it’s mutually beneficial—all before bringing any specific investment opportunity to the table.By wearing his “teacher hat,” he positioned himself as a knowledgeable, trustworthy guide rather than someone begging for help. This simple shift allowed him to raise over $2 million in 90 days.The Secret: Separate the Funding Conversation from the DealJay Conner emphasizes that the worst time to raise money is when you need it urgently for a deal; desperation has a scent that savvy investors can detect. Instead, he recommends cultivating interest in your program beforehand. Explain your investment approach, outline your terms (like 8-10% interest, first or second lien position, borrowing up to 75% of after-repair value), and show potential lenders how their money is protected.When a deal arises, you call with “great news”—not a desperate plea. The money is already pledged, and investors are ready and waiting.Indirect Outreach: Ask for Referrals, Not FundsA genius part of Jay’s approach is the indirect ask. Rather than pitching investments directly, he’d connect with well-networked locals (like the town’s original Zenith TV dealer!), share that he’s helping people earn high rates of return, and ask for referrals. More often than not, people would express interest themselves or spread the word to their circles.This reflective, relationship-driven technique allowed Jay to build a network of 47 private lenders, most of whom had never even heard of private money lending before he educated them.Scaling Up: From Small Deals to MillionsIs this approach scalable? Absolutely. Whether you need $500,000 or $10 million, Jay’s model works by adapting your outreach. For example, he’s raised nearly a million dollars in a single luncheon by teaching his program to a room of community influencers. He regularly uses presentations, podcasts, and word-of-mouth to reach potential lenders, rather than relying solely on one-on-one conversations.The Role of Self-Directed IRAsA powerful hack in the private money world is using self-directed IRAs. Many investors have retirement funds languishing with low returns. By educating them on how to use these funds for private lending, J

If you’ve ever wondered how successful real estate investors consistently land incredible deals, you’re not alone. On a recent episode of the “Raising Private Money” podcast with host Jay Conner, Dave Payerchin shared powerful, actionable insights from his career, where he’s raised over $50 million in private money and built an impressive rental portfolio. Dave's advice is gold, whether you’re looking for your first deal or leveling up your investment business.Mindset: Your Most Important AssetDave starts by emphasizing the value of mindset and personal development. Before getting into tactics, he grounds his success in what he calls the “core four”—his relationship with God, his health, his family, and finally, his business. For aspiring investors, this serves as a reminder: true success is holistic and must be built on a solid personal foundation.Crucially, Dave shares a personal lesson about overcoming limiting beliefs—especially the common thought, “I’m not enough.” Through consistent, small commitments (like daily habits), you build self-trust and confidence. In the context of real estate, your mindset directly affects your ability to network, take risks, and follow through on deals.Why Dave Loves Single-Family RentalsDave is a strong believer in affordable housing—specifically single-family rentals, especially in stable, cash-flowing markets like Columbus, Ohio. He points out several reasons why:Demand: Single-family homes are in high demand since people prefer houses over apartments, especially families who want a yard and privacy.Accessibility: It’s easier to raise money and get financing for single-family deals. You don’t need complex investment structures or syndications.Stability: Markets like the Midwest aren’t seeing the same volatility as coastal areas, making them ideal for long-term cash flow.The Power of Private MoneyBoth Dave and Jay agree: private money is one of the most powerful tools in real estate. It allows you to scale your investing without using your capital and enables you to compete as a “serious buyer.” Dave’s own story starts with necessity—having no money or credit, he realized he needed to raise 100% of the capital (purchase and rehab) to get started.Often, new investors make the mistake of “shopping for cheaper money” before they’ve built a track record, thinking they should negotiate for the best rates right away. Dave’s advice? Get in the game, even if you pay higher rates at first. Over time, as you close deals and build credibility, you’ll attract lenders offering better terms.Finding Deals: The Action StepsSo, how do you break into the business and start finding great deals?Put Yourself Out There: Start by telling everyone what you’re doing. Dave suggests overcoming the natural fear of being judged or not taken seriously. The market rewards those who educate and share.Network the Right Way: Use social media strategically—on Facebook, show your family and authentic self. Mix in regular updates about your deals, but keep it natural and genuine. The goal is to build relationships, not just blast advertisements.The Personal Touch: Dave is a master at relationship building. He regularly sends hundreds of personalized holiday texts to his network. Not every message is about business. It’s about staying top-of-mind and nurturing relationships without strings attached.Transparency with Lenders: When it comes time to fund deals, Dave keeps it simple for his private money partners, showing basic numbers and security (like a mortgage or promissory note). He distinguishes his deals by avoiding syndications, instead offering lenders first-lien security on a single property for maximum safety.Final ThoughtsDave Payerchin’s approach is refreshingly honest and actionable. He reminds us that the secret sau

In real estate investing, raising private money is often seen as a numbers game, but at its core, it’s really about relationships. This is precisely the message Jay Conner and his guest, Kevin Thompson, share in their enlightening conversation on the "Raising Private Money" podcast. Kevin, an entrepreneur with a proven track record of facilitating hundreds of strategic partnerships, brings knowledge about the true power of relationship capital.The Power of Relationship CapitalBusiness success, especially in fields reliant on collaboration and investment, doesn’t exist in a vacuum. Kevin Thompson’s journey highlights how critical relationships are—not just transactional contacts, but meaningful, mutually beneficial connections. Over the years, Kevin has helped fellow entrepreneurs generate millions in revenue, not by relentless self-promotion, but through thoughtful introduction, collaboration, and service.A central idea in Kevin’s approach is treating relationships with genuine care. Relationships aren’t merely a means to an end; they are the end in themselves. The entrepreneurs who grow their businesses consistently are those who invest time and authentic energy in nurturing their network. Whether it’s private lenders in real estate or partners in other industries, the principle remains the same: showing up with a servant’s heart creates a ripple effect that supports long-term growth.Defining and Creating Strategic PartnershipsMany business owners misunderstand the essence of strategic partnerships. It’s not simply finding someone to promote your offerings for a cut of the revenue. Kevin emphasizes that a successful partnership is two people coming together to achieve more collectively than they ever could individually. The most fruitful collaborations begin not with, ‘What can you do for me?’ but with, ‘How can I help you serve your clients better?’This shift in mindset is transformative. It allows both parties to explore their unique skills and resources and see how they can uplift each other. The real value isn’t just sales or dollars but the experience and trust that’s built along the way. Kevin’s network is a testament to this philosophy—he’s facilitated over 400 strategic partnerships by focusing not on what he can gain, but on how he can help others grow.Being the ConnectorKevin has become known as "The Connector," not simply for the sheer volume of relationships he’s built, but for the quality and impact of those connections. His approach is proactive and intentional. Rather than wait for opportunities to come to him, Kevin reaches out to those who inspire him, often from something as small as a thoughtful social media post. He compliments, appreciates, and asks probing questions—curious to learn what excites the other person and how he might contribute to their success.Even when facilitating introductions between others, Kevin’s focus is on alignment of values, interests, and intention. True partnerships are only possible when there’s a natural fit, and Kevin’s intuition allows him to discern these opportunities effectively.Leading with Service—The Secret to ReciprocityOne of the most powerful lessons from Kevin’s story is the approach of giving without expectation. Giving appreciation, attention, and help without any strings attached creates an environment where reciprocity happens naturally. Sometimes the benefits return directly from the person you help, other times from an unexpected source. This is the essence of the "law of reciprocity"—what goes around, comes around, often amplified.Implementing Relationship-Building in Your BusinessFor those wanting to implement these principles, the process begins with genuine curiosity. Start new conversations by asking sincerely what the other person is passionate about or currently working on. Listen with intent, not with an agenda. Look for way

If you're exploring strategies to build wealth, especially through real estate, the recent conversation between Jay Conner and Kenneth Gee on the “Raising Private Money” podcast is a must-watch. Kenneth Gee, a seasoned real estate investor, CPA, and commercial lender, has over 26 years of experience, has raised more than $50 million in private money, and has been involved in transactions totaling over $2 billion. In this episode, Ken shares his journey, insights on raising and leveraging private money, and actionable strategies for both active and passive investors.From a 3 AM Epiphany to Real Estate SuccessKen’s story begins with a deeply personal motivator: time with family. While working grueling hours as a CPA at Deloitte, he found his only quality time with his newborn daughter was at 3 AM feedings. This realization sparked his pursuit of better financial freedom and work-life balance. Surrounded by successful real estate clients during his lending and accounting career, he decided to dive headfirst into the multifamily property space.His start wasn’t glamorous—three small apartment buildings financed using a mix of seller financing, a home equity line, and support from his in-laws. What’s notable is Ken’s emphasis on starting where you are, using creativity, and not waiting for perfect conditions. He warns against being paralyzed by inexperience; instead, leverage what you have and learn as you go.Why Multifamily?While many consider starting in single-family homes, Ken chose multifamily from the get-go. His logic was straightforward: scalability and risk management. With multifamily, one vacancy doesn’t devastate your income stream the way it might with a single-family unit. Plus, greater cash flow allows you to hire help, freeing up your own time—a crucial consideration for those juggling busy careers or family life.Raising Private Money—Built on Trust and TransparencyOne of the most powerful sections of the podcast focuses on Ken’s approach to raising private money. Early deals were funded via personal connections, but over time, his network and credibility expanded. Now, Ken runs regular webinars—open and education-focused—for potential investors.This outreach isn’t about high-pressure sales. Instead, he invites people to observe, learn, and engage at their own pace. Many followers tune in for months—even years—before choosing to invest. Ken’s approach is a model in building trust: provide value, answer questions, and empower investors to make informed decisions.Education and Mentorship: The Real Difference-MakersBoth Ken and Jay stress a critical but often overlooked step: get educated before diving in. Ken’s advanced multifamily acquisition program is a year-long commitment with weekly group coaching calls, resources, and hands-on support. The curriculum guides students from developing their personal financial statement and business plan, all the way through underwriting deals and asset management.Why so much focus on the details? Because, as Ken says, lenders and private investors will “sniff out” gaps in your knowledge. Being detail-oriented signals trustworthiness. It’s also the key to building your confidence and making sound decisions—cornerstones for long-term success.Common Mistakes—and How to Avoid ThemKen has seen many new investors stumble by underestimating the importance of due diligence and accurate underwriting. Treat real estate as a business, not a side hustle. Those who ignore the details, rush deals, or skip coaching often pay dearly, both in lost money and missed opportunities.Jay adds an important point: don’t go it alone, especially early on. A coach or mentor can help you avoid unseen pitfalls and accelerate your learning curve. The resources and podcasts available today can save you the hard lessons Ken had to learn the slow way decades ago.Final Tho