*** Guest AppearanceCredits to:https://www.youtube.com/@TheBigPictureBlueprint "Raising Private Money with Jay Conner"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oYvFywuPL88 In the ever-evolving world of real estate investment, securing funding can often be the make-or-break factor for success. Between complex financing options and stringent lending requirements, many investors find themselves in search of alternatives that offer more flexibility and potential for profit. This blog post delves into the insightful discussion between Jay Conner, Dan Haberkost, and Mason McDonald revealing the significant advantages of utilizing private money over traditional hard money lenders. Follow along as we explore the strategies to effectively raise private money, the benefits it provides, and how you can leverage these insights to maximize your real estate deals.What is Private Money?Private money involves raising capital from individual investors rather than institutions or traditional lenders. Jay Conner, a seasoned real estate investor, explains that he has successfully secured private money for his deals since 2009, paying his private lenders an annual percentage rate (APR) of 8%. Unlike traditional lenders, private money lenders offer more flexible terms and often provide 100% of the purchase price and rehab money, based on the property’s after-repaired value.Why Choose Private Money Over Hard Money?**No Hidden Costs:** Private money comes without the extra-associated costs that are common with hard money lenders. This includes origination fees, extension fees, junk fees, or appraisal costs.**Flexibility in Terms:** Private lenders typically do not require strict credit score checks, making it easier for investors to secure the necessary funds.**Lower Interest Rates:** While hard money lenders may charge interest rates upward of 15%, private money has a more appealing 8% rate. These savings can significantly impact the overall profitability of a real estate deal.**Faster Access to Funds:** Jay emphasizes the importance of having quick and straightforward access to capital, allowing investors to seize opportunities promptly. Private lenders can often expedite the funding process compared to traditional banks.How to Secure Private Money**Building Relationships:** One of the pivotal strategies Jay Conner highlights is the importance of personal relationships. He suggests targeting your existing network—church members, rotary club peers, and business network groups—educating them about private lending and self-directed IRAs.**Transparency and Trust:** Proving your performance to new private lenders is crucial. Jay suggests using their funds first to demonstrate successful deal execution, thereby building trust and credibility.**Leveraging Personal Networks:** Jay shares an anecdote about a conversation at church that led to onboarding retired school teachers as private lenders. It’s a reminder to capitalize on the potential within your immediate circle, where you might find people looking to invest their funds more effectively.Raising Private Money Strategically**The 7-Day Private Money Challenge:** Jay underscores the importance of structured learning and highlights the 7-Day Private Money Challenge—a master class designed to teach realistic methods to raise $500,000 in private money. This training is interactive, easy to follow, and helps investors understand the nuances of securing private funding.**Quantifying Your Needs:** Being clear about how much private money you require for your deals is essential. Jay outlines an exercis

In a recent episode of the "Raising Private Money" podcast, Jay Conner explores the fascinating world of real estate investments with special guest Ray Hightower. The episode sheds light on Ray's journey of raising over $3,000,000 in private money for commercial real estate deals. This blog post will delve into the takeaway points from their discussion, focusing on Ray’s transition from the tech industry to real estate, his preferred asset class, and his effective methods for attracting private investors.From Technology to Real EstateRay Hightower's entry into real estate is both motivating and informative. His career began in the dynamic field of technology, where he held a degree in computer science and gained extensive experience working for Fortune 500 companies. He eventually founded and managed his technology company for over two decades. Upon achieving significant success, he sold his tech company and transitioned into multifamily real estate.This career switch was driven by the potential for equity building and the unique advantages offered by real estate investments, including capital preservation, intrinsic land value, insurance protection, and steady cash flow from rent payments.Why Multifamily Properties?When asked about his choice of asset class, Ray prefers multifamily properties, particularly those in the 50 to 150-unit range. He appreciates various asset classes including single-family and retail spaces, although office properties pose challenges due to the shift towards remote work. Multifamily properties, however, are a more stable investment because people always need housing.Focusing on properties with 50 to 150 units allows Ray to ensure professional management without facing direct competition from large private equity firms. This approach enables effective property management while pursuing valuable deals that larger entities might overlook.Structuring Deals with Private MoneyA critical part of the episode highlights how Ray structures his deals using private money. His approach involves limited partners (LPs) and general partners (GPs) within limited liability corporations (LLCs). Ray employs a 70%-30% ownership split between LPs and GPs.Private investors are primarily looking for excellent stewardship of their investments, and Ray’s meticulous oversight ensures their money is managed carefully. He compares the investor's journey to a scouting trip, emphasizing how crucial it is to ensure safety and improvement in property investments.Attracting Private Money: Trust and MethodologyThe discussion then moves to how important trust is in attracting private money. Jay highlights that private lenders often invest in the operator rather than the deal itself. Ray builds on this idea by outlining a four-step method he learned from his mentor, Hunter Thompson: attract, educate, nurture, and close.**1. Attract:** Initial attention is garnered toward investment opportunities through effective networking, an online presence, and valuable content distribution.**2. Educate:** Comprehensive information about the investment process and potential returns is provided to build credibility. Education enhances not only the learner's knowledge but also boosts the educator’s standing.**3. Nurture:** Developing strong relationships is essential. Continually adding value through education, connections, events, and podcasts builds trust, showing potential investors that their interests and finances are genuinely taken care of.**4. Close:** If the steps of attraction, education, and nurturing are executed with a giving spirit, the final investment commitment often follows naturally, without direct solicitation.The Power of Mindset in Building PartnershipsTowards the end of the episode, the conversation shifts to the importance of mindset in busines

When Jay Conner talks about making $155,140 in just five weeks using private money, he isn't spinning tall tales. Instead, he's sharing the transformative power of private money in real estate investing. Let's dive into the methods and strategies Jay employed to turn an ordinary deal into a goldmine.Finding the Perfect Deal: Leveraging Technology and Understanding MotivationsTo strike gold in real estate, you need to find the right deal. Jay’s success began with pinpointing a motivated seller. He used Google ads to attract these sellers and stressed the importance of immediate follow-up in capturing potential opportunities. In this particular instance, Jay came across an oceanfront condominium located at 855 Salter Path Road, Colony by the Sea. The seller's motivations were clear: inheritance issues and impending foreclosure. Understanding these motivations allowed Jay to negotiate more effectively.With a realtor’s help, Jay discovered the property's after-repaired value (ARV) was $600,000, while the seller asked for $425,000. This immediate gap presented a lucrative opportunity. Jay also found renovation costs to be relatively low at just $11,000 – making this deal even more enticing.Breaking Down the Numbers: Understanding the Financial LandscapeJay's approach to financing this deal was through private money. Here’s a breakdown of the financials:  **Purchase Price:** $425,000 **Renovation Cost:** $11,000 **Realtor Fee:** $31,400Using his strategy, Jay borrowed $450,000 in private money, ensuring he had $25,000 excess cash at closing – preparing him for any unexpected expenses and enhancing his liquidity. Jay’s golden rule is borrowing a maximum of 75% of the ARV, which, in this case, was sound due to the property’s valuation.The Sale: Effective Marketing and Quick ActionsJay employed effective marketing strategies to elevate the property's appeal. Utilizing professional media including music videos and pictures, he implemented a 'coming soon' campaign to generate buzz and demand. The results were impressive. Though the initial offer came in at $615,000, a subsequent offer of $628,000 came through, which Jay gladly accepted.Within just two weeks of listing, Jay closed the sale at $628,000. Such quick actions and strategic marketing not only led to a profitable transaction but also underscored the importance of agility in real estate.Profit Calculation: Detailed InsightsWhen the dust settled, Jay’s meticulous planning culminated in a substantial profit. Out of a closing sale price of $628,000, we subtract the: **Purchase Price:** $425,000 **Renovation Cost:** $11,000 **Realtor Fee:** $31,400Leaving Jay with a net profit of $155,140 – a testament to the power of private money and effective real estate strategies.Key Takeaways for Aspiring InvestorsJay Conner distilled his experience into five crucial takeaways for budding investors: **Consistent Advertising:** Continuously running ads ensures a steady stream of potential deals. **Readiness of Private Money:** Having funds readily available allows for quick, decisive actions. **Maintain Relationships:** Good relationships with a real estate attorney, realtor, and general contractor are indispensable. **Effective Marketing:** High-quality media and 'coming soon' strategies can significantly influence buyer interest and property value. **Education Through Challenges:** Participating in training programs, such as Jay’s 7-day private money challenge (available at https://www.PrivateMoneyChallenge.com), can provide invaluable insights into attracting private money

In this episode of the Raising Private Money podcast, we delve into an inspiring journey of financial transformation with Mike Deaton. Mike and his wife, Ligia, found success in a niche part of the real estate market—flipping vacant land. Mik shares their story, educating listeners on how they raised over $1,000,000 in private money and crafted a life they desired.A Nagging Dissatisfaction with Corporate LifeMike Deaton was once deeply entrenched in the corporate world, relying heavily on his job for income, supplemented only by modest investments in the stock market. Like many professionals, Mike faced the stark reality of job loss, which propelled him into a period of introspection. Despite contemplating a return to corporate life, he couldn't shake a persistent feeling of dissatisfaction, urging him to explore alternative income streams.Inspiration from "Rich Dad Poor DadThe influential book "Rich Dad Poor Dad" catalyzed Mike and Ligia's venture into land flipping. Inspired by the success stories depicted in the book, they invested in their education by attending a boot camp focused on flipping dirt. Armed with newfound knowledge and a 12-month timeframe with a defined budget, they embarked on their land-flipping journey.The Mechanics of Land FlippingLand flipping, also known as "flipping dirt," involves purchasing vacant land below market value and reselling it at a profit. Mike and Ligia primarily focus on properties with acreage, leveraging owner financing to facilitate more accessible transactions. They employ a strategic approach to locating potential sellers, utilizing list service providers to gather data on property owners. A particular focus is placed on out-of-state owners, who are often more willing to negotiate.Raising Capital for Real Estate VenturesRaising over $1,000,000 in private money is no small feat. Both Jay Conner and Mike Deaton emphasize the critical role of education and trust-building in this process. They highlight the importance of personal contacts and networking, attending events and clubs to educate individuals about passive investment opportunities in real estate.Jay Conner shares his approach to simplifying real estate financing language and hosting networking events to attract potential investors. Both speakers stressed the necessity of confidence and caution against appearing desperate, which can deter potential investors.From the Corporate World to Real Estate SuccessMike and Ligia's transition from the corporate sphere to successful real estate entrepreneurs wasn't instantaneous. They started by purchasing properties through direct mail campaigns, offering specific purchase amounts like $6,500 or $3,200, with the initial funding coming from their company's cash flow. For larger deals, they explored options such as institutional and private funding.Finding Buyers and Building on SuccessSelling the properties is another critical aspect of their venture. Mike utilizes a combination of social media platforms, paid listing sites, and an email list of interested buyers to secure sales. Their land-flipping success has paved the way for further real estate endeavors, such as raising funds for multifamily syndications.The Power of Coaching and MentorshipUnderstanding the complexities of the real estate market, Mike offers coaching services through flippingdirt.us. This initiative is designed to provide support and guidance on various strategies within the land-flipping business, helping aspiring entrepreneurs kickstart their real estate careers.Advice for Aspiring EntrepreneursMike's advice to those aspiring to break into real estate or any entrepreneurial venture is straightforward: take action. He emphasizes the importance of starting, even when conditions aren’t perfect. Waiting for the "right" moment can often lead to

In the ever-evolving world of real estate investing, understanding how to effectively raise and leverage private money can make or break your success. In a recent episode of Raising Private Money, Jay Conner, an authority on private lending, sat down with Dale Wills, a real estate investor who has successfully raised over $100 million in private capital. Their discussion illuminated key strategies, and nuances between investing in single-family versus multi-family properties, and even explored ways to maximize your IRA for real estate investments.The Jargon of Private Money: Making the RulesInvesting in real estate with private money is fundamentally different from traditional bank financing. Jay Conner initiated the conversation by stressing the importance of realizing that in the private capital realm, investors make the rules. Unlike conventional banking, where terms are rigid and largely non-negotiable, private money lending offers an open playground to set interest rates and define terms that best suit your investment needs.Dale Wills highlighted that this shift in mindset is crucial. Many novice investors might initially feel intimidated by this newfound control and might be tempted to relinquish autonomy back to the lender. However, Dale emphasized that belief in one's value proposition is vital. Standing firm and trusting in your offering can significantly boost confidence and, in turn, attract more private lenders.Single-Family vs. Multi-Family Investments: Core DifferencesOne of the standout segments of the podcast was the discussion around the differences between investing in single-family homes versus multi-family apartments. Dale Wills, who specializes in single-family projects, provided some fascinating insights. While multi-family units offer value, they sometimes remain under-utilized due to evolving living conditions, such as consolidated households.Dale’s focus on single-family homes, particularly entry-level, first-time buyer products, aligns well with current market dynamics. Even in economic downturns, the demand for these affordable housing options remains steadfast. Second or third-time homebuyers might hold off on purchasing during uncertain times, but first-time buyers typically continue to enter the market. This resilience makes the entry-level housing market a strategic focus.Boosting Wealth with IRAs: A Hidden GemFor many investors, leveraging retirement funds can be a game-changer. Jay Conner noted that a significant portion of his private lenders utilize their IRAs to invest, seeking better returns than traditional retirement accounts provide. Dale Wills backed this by highlighting Centra’s partnership with Equity Trust, a platform that facilitates the efficient transfer and investment of IRA funds into real estate.Dale shared that transferring IRA funds for investment is straightforward and can offer significantly better returns compared to traditional investments like stocks or money markets. Real estate investments provide tangible assets that investors can see and feel, which is a considerable advantage over digital or paper assets which can sometimes feel intangible.Helping First-Time HomebuyersAnother significant point of discussion was the various ways Centra helps first-time homebuyers. In today's challenging economic climate, making homes affordable without compromising quality is paramount. Centra's approach includes allowing employees to buy houses at cost, thereby helping them build personal wealth. Centra focuses heavily on entry-level housing, ensuring it is affordable while maintaining high standards. They also facilitate access to programs like USDA loans, which offer down payment assistance and interest-rate buy-downs. This multi-faceted approach makes homes more accessible and bridges the housing gap for both first-time homebuyers and empty nesters looking to do

In the realm of real estate investing, one of the most daunting challenges is securing the necessary capital to launch and sustain projects. During a candid discussion on the "Raising Private Money" podcast, host Jay Conner invited real estate powerhouse Maura McGraw to share her journey in raising private funds and scaling her business.The Early Days: Learning the Hard WayMaura McGraw's introduction to real estate investing in 2018 was nothing short of a trial by fire. Driven by a hands-off mentorship approach from her father, Maura found herself managing a ground-up build in Birmingham, Alabama, with almost no prior experience. It was a monumental task for a newcomer and resulted in a $30,000 loss. However, it also provided invaluable lessons that would lay the groundwork for her future success.Raising Private Money: The Initial HurdlesIn the subsequent years, Maura faced the perennial issue that many new investors encountered—banks were unwilling to finance her projects due to her limited track record. Determined to push forward, Maura turned to private money, guided by the belief that a good deal would attract the necessary funds.Her journey to secure private funding was fraught with challenges. For two crucial real estate flips following her initial project, Maura had to navigate a whirlwind of networking and presentations. Meeting after meeting resulted in rejections until she finally secured funding through a connection facilitated by her general contractor. This breakthrough relationship with private lender Aziz Shannara became the cornerstone of her future investments and business expansions.The Concept of the Trust BridgeOne significant takeaway from Maura's story is the idea of the "trust bridge," a concept emphasized by Jay Conner. The trust bridge leverages existing relationships to establish credibility with prospective investors. In Maura's case, her general contractor served as her trust bridge, vouching for her capabilities and solidifying trust between Maura and Aziz. Jay also shared a similar experience from his own career, accentuating the importance of leveraging relationships and building trust in the world of private money.The Challenges of Rapid Growth: Scaling Property ManagementMaura's story also serves as a cautionary tale about the challenges of rapid business growth. After founding a property management company in 2019, the venture experienced meteoric growth, managing over 600 properties within three years. This pace, while impressive, also introduced significant operational challenges requiring frequent halts and strategic overhauls to manage the increasing load effectively.Maura and her team learned the hard way the necessity of scaling intentionally. By adopting more selective criteria for new clients and properties, they were able to maintain service quality and business viability. Maura’s experience underlines the importance of aligning growth with operational capacity, thus preventing overextension.Building a Strong Team: Key to Sustainable SuccessOne of the pillars of Maura's sustained success in real estate is her robust team. With seven key players, including her partner Aziz serving as CFO, Maura has established a well-rounded structure encompassing general management, construction, bookkeeping, executive assistance, and property management. This balanced delegation of responsibilities ensures that each aspect of her business runs smoothly.Words of Wisdom: Persistency Is KeyMaura concluded her narrative with an important piece of advice: never give up, no matter how many mistakes you make. Her journey from a novice investor to a real estate mogul brimming with industry knowledge and a robust portfolio exemplifies the power of resilience. Mistakes, according to Maura, are the stepping stones to long-term success, provided one learns and grows from

In this engaging episode of Raising Private Money with Jay Conner, Jay brings on expert guest Pablo Villa-Martinez to discuss the intricacies of raising private money, assisting people facing foreclosure, and creating opportunities through rent-to-own programs. Pablo's journey from the utility industry to real estate provides valuable insights for anyone interested in real estate investment, securing high returns, or supporting those in financial distress.Raising Private Money: The Power of Social MediaPablo ventured into the private lending space by utilizing social media to connect with potential private money lenders. By posting information about high-yield investment opportunities, he captured the interest of individuals who might not have previously considered private lending as a viable investment option. His strategy focused on educating potential lenders about the benefits of private money, highlighting the attractive returns compared to traditional investment vehicles like CDs and savings accounts.Jay Conner commented on the effectiveness of social media, noting how a simple post could pique the interest of even those new to the concept. Through engaging content and clear calls to action, Pablo successfully built a network of private lenders keen on exploring this profitable avenue.Educative Webinars and Recorded ContentTo further his outreach efforts, Pablo plans to host live social media webinars aimed at educating potential private lenders. These sessions will cover the fundamentals of private lending, the associated perks, and the security measures in place to protect investments. The webinar is designed to be concise yet comprehensive, ensuring that attendees leave with a robust understanding of the process.Recognizing that not everyone can attend live sessions, Pablo has thoughtfully made recordings available for later viewing. By offering this flexibility, he ensures that his educational resources are accessible to a broader audience, allowing more people to benefit from his expertise in private lending.Foreclosure Mitigation: Helping People Keep Their HomesOne of the most heartening aspects of Pablo's work is his foreclosure mitigation program. This initiative helps individuals facing foreclosure explore their options to retain their homes. The program looks at financial recourse as well as legal and procedural elements to provide a holistic solution to those struggling to keep their properties. Pablo's commitment to serving others first is evident in this program, as he aims to provide hope and practical assistance to those in dire financial straits.The Rent-to-Own AdvantageAnother significant offering from Pablo is his rent-to-own program. This option allows individuals who are unable to qualify for traditional mortgages to live in a property for two to five years with the option to purchase it later. The rent-to-own model serves the community by creating more accessible housing opportunities and offers investors a steady income stream and potential future sales. It’s a win-win solution that aligns with Pablo's philosophy of creating opportunities while serving the needs of others.Real Estate as a People's BusinessPablo’s journey underscores an essential business philosophy: "It starts with people and ends with people." His methods are firmly rooted in understanding and aiding the financial journeys of individuals, whether they are investors seeking high returns or homeowners in financial distress. By prioritizing the needs of others and creating structured, accessible programs, Pablo ensures that his business practices are both profitable and socially responsible.ConclusionThe episode with Pablo Villa-Martinez provided valuable insights into the real estate sector, focusing on private lending, foreclosure mitigation, and rent-to-own programs. By leveraging the power

In the latest episode of the Raising Private Money podcast, Jay Conner engages with Airbnb expert John Bianchi to delve into the intricacies of successful short-term rental investments. With over $70,000,000 directed into cash-flowing Airbnbs and a 100% success rate across 150 properties, Bianchi shares valuable insights on leveraging private money, identifying profitable properties, and optimizing revenue drivers. Listeners can expect to gain a comprehensive understanding of what it takes to thrive in the competitive world of short-term rentals (STR). The Importance of Market ResearchJohn Bianchi emphasizes that different markets offer unique revenue opportunities. These can range from properties that are bigger, better, or more luxurious, to those offering exclusive amenities and superior property management. Understanding what drives revenue in each specific market is crucial for identifying profitable investments. For those looking to deepen their market research skills, Bianchi recommends utilizing resources like www.strsearch.com, which offers free data courses, including a 40-hour comprehensive course called "The Bianchi Method."Revenue Drivers and Property FeaturesIn the conversation, Bianchi lays out how key property features and amenities significantly impact revenue. These include pools, backyard spaces, extra living areas, and exceptional property marketing. He highlights the importance of professional property photography, which helps create an emotional attachment in potential guests, enabling them to envision themselves enjoying the space. Capturing the imagination of potential guests can make a substantial difference in a property’s booking rate and overall profitability.Common Investment PitfallsOne of the major pitfalls in real estate investing for Airbnb, John notes, is purchasing the wrong property. A poor investment can lead to negative cash flow, financial losses, and a soured experience with the industry overall. To avoid these pitfalls, investors need to rely on data and numbers to make informed decisions. Platforms like AirDNA, which records booking data from Airbnb properties worldwide, can be pivotal in analyzing a property’s potential cash flow. Bianchi's "20% rule" serves as a guideline: ensuring a property's revenue is at least 20% of the purchase price is a good benchmark for profitability.Utilizing Private Money for PurchasesJay Conner and John Bianchi also discuss how private money can be a powerful tool for purchasing and managing Airbnb. With private funds, investors can swiftly close deals and optimize their property portfolios. This approach is particularly beneficial for high W-2 earners looking to leverage short-term rental tax benefits to save on active income taxes. Bianchi advises investors to engage specialized tax advisory firms like Hall CPA to fully understand and exploit the available STR tax loopholes.Designing for SuccessWhen it comes to property furnishing and amenities, Bianchi stresses the importance of aiming for the high-end market to ensure long-term success. He sets a budget of over $150,000 for amenities and property design to place properties in the top 10 percentile. This investment ensures the property can survive potential economic recessions, making it a cornerstone strategy for savvy investors.Strategies for Different MarketsDuring the episode, Jay Conner questions whether it’s better to invest in upscale versus smaller markets for Airbnbs. Although John prefers not to buy luxury properties outright, he focuses on making standard properties in luxury markets exciting by adding tailored amenities for specific demographics. This strategy has proven successful, as illustrated by an example where a $1,000,000 property achieved over $200,000 in revenue, equivalent to that of a $2,000,000 property.ConclusionJay Conner

Welcome to another enlightening episode of Raising Private Money with Jay Conner. In this episode, Jay converses with Cameron Christiansen and Anthony Faso, founders of a groundbreaking company specializing in infinite wealth and banking strategies. They delve into innovative financial practices designed to construct sustainable wealth, particularly through real estate investing and private money. This post expands on their enlightening discussion, exploring the fundamentals of infinite banking, criticisms of traditional financial advice, and strategic approaches to achieving financial freedom through alternative investments.Understanding Infinite BankingInfinite banking is a cash management strategy, not an investment itself, but a foundation for wise investments. At its core, infinite banking focuses on where you store your capital. Traditional vehicles like savings accounts or 401(k)s are constrained by market volatility and regulations. Instead, infinite banking leverages specially designed whole-life insurance policies to offer safe, liquid storage for your cash.Whole Life Insurance Policies as Financial ToolsAnthony Faso elucidates that these policies are not primarily obtained for their death benefits, although that's a component. Instead, they are structured to maximize cash value, ensuring liquidity and robust growth. The distinctive advantage here is the uninterrupted compounding of interest. Clients can access funds and even leverage against their policies, with the money continuing to grow at a tax-free rate of around 4% annually. This method offers a secure, flexible way to manage and grow capital compared to locking funds in a 401(k) until retirement age.Critique of Traditional Financial Advice1. Passive Income GenerationCameron Christiansen criticizes typical retirement vehicles like 401(k)s and IRAs for being ineffectual in generating passive income. He emphasizes the necessity of learning the skill to create passive income now, rather than delaying it until late in one’s career. Traditional financial planning often leads people to park their money in stocks, bonds, or mutual funds, with no focus on real-time income creation. By contrast, infinite banking teaches clients to generate cash flow through business ventures or real estate investments.2.  Dependency on Financial AdvisorsTraditional financial advice tends to create "lemmings," individuals who follow advisors blindly without understanding the intricacies of their financial decisions. Anthony and Cameron stress the need for financial education. Relying too heavily on advisors can lead to disastrous financial outcomes, especially during economic downturns. Infinite banking, on the other hand, empowers individuals by providing the knowledge and tools to control their financial destinies.3. Lack of Education and ControlOne of the principal criticisms highlighted is the lack of financial literacy imparted in traditional advising. Many advisors advocate for clients to hand over their money with little to no explanation of the underlying strategies. This breeds a lack of transparency and understanding. Cameron strongly believes that everyone is capable of managing their finances, given the right education and tools. Infinite banking focuses on empowering clients with the necessary knowledge to make informed financial decisions.Strategies for Financial Freedom Through Infinite Banking1. Reallocating Funds from 401(k) PlansBoth Cameron and Anthony share personal anecdotes about transitioning their funds from traditional 401(k)s to policies. Cameron speaks to the uneasiness and lack of control associated with 401(k) investments, advocating for reallocating these funds into a more flexible and potentially lucrative vehicle like a whole-life policy. Anthony

***Guest AppearanceCredits to:https://www.youtube.com/@clarkstcapital/ “Overcoming The 5 Roadblocks Holding You Back With Private Lending”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=scBB0I89ons&t=894s In this riveting episode of Raising Private Money podcast, Jay Conner joins Ed Mathews on his Real Estate Underground Podcast where Jay dives deep into overcoming barriers in real estate investing, from sourcing distressed properties to managing investment funds and finding deals in smaller markets!Below, we delve further into the strategies and philosophies Jay Conner has perfected over his long and successful career.Yard Sales: The Secret Source for Hot DealsJay Conner shares a surprisingly effective technique for finding distressed properties before they can be listed by realtors: yard, garage, and moving sales. He advises investors to look in local newspapers or on the Facebook marketplace for yard sale groups. By contacting property owners holding these sales, you could potentially buy distressed properties before they hit the market. These are typically homeowners gearing up for a big move and looking to offload their possessions, translating into motivated sellers eager to make quick deals.The Magic of Human ConnectionEstablishing rapport with potential sellers is crucial. Building trust and discovering their motivations can facilitate better deals. By asking open-ended questions, investors can understand the seller's urgency and needs, allowing for a more tailored negotiation and, ideally, a win-win scenario.Transitioning from Bank Loans to Private MoneyOne of the main hurdles for new real estate investors is funding. Jay Conner’s transition from relying on bank loans to harnessing private money is an enlightening story.After losing his lines of credit during the 2009 financial crisis, Jay turned to private money and self-directed IRAs. He successfully raised millions by teaching his local community about the potential of earning high returns safely and securely, without ever directly asking for money.Becoming a Private Money MavenEducating people about interest rates, protection guarantees, and the process of getting their money back is key. This approach not only secures funds but also establishes credibility and trust.Jay highlights the strategy of making "good news calls," where he informs potential lenders about a lucrative investment opportunity without asking for money—just presenting an opportunity they’ve been waiting for. This proactive and educational approach keeps private lenders engaged and eager to participate.Excelling in Small MarketsJay Conner’s success is proof that significant profits are achievable even in small markets. Based in a tiny North Carolina town with a population of just 8,000, Jay averages $82,000 in profit per deal. His strategy revolves around knowing the market well, leveraging both free and paid marketing methods, and networking rigorously.Why Small Markets Can Be GoldminesSmall markets often present less competition, allowing diligent and knowledgeable investors to dominate. Investing in high-demand areas with growing populations albeit smaller populations can offer lucrative opportunities with less stress from cutthroat competitors.Importance of Customer Relationship Management (CRM)Effective lead management is crucial for scaling any real estate business. Jay Conner underscores the importance of using a Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system to organize and track leads. A CRM helps in maintaining constant communication with potential sellers and private lenders, e