
The Multifamily Wealth Podcast
Axel Ragnarsson speaks with successful real estate investors and dissects how they started, built, and scaled their businesses. In each episode, listeners can expect tactical and actionable information to help grow their business and real estate portfolio.
Latest episodes

Jan 9, 2024 • 52min
#209: From Running a $10B Portfolio To Advising LPs and Common LP Investment Mistakes with Aleksey Chernobelskiy
Join us in this insightful episode of the Multifamily Wealth Podcast as we sit down with Aleksey Chernobelskiy, a seasoned expert in the real estate sector. With a rich background that includes running STORE Capital's $10 billion commercial real estate platform, Aleksey brings a wealth of knowledge to the table, especially in underwriting and portfolio management.In our conversation, we delve into the unique niche Aleksey has carved out in advising LPs (limited partners) on investing in syndications. Whether you're a passive investor looking to avoid common syndication mistakes or a GP (general partner) aiming to better understand LP concerns, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways.Aleksey also shares his journey from immigrating to the US at age 11 to becoming a quadruple major in Finance, Mathematics, Economics, and Accounting and eventually a key player in the real estate investment space. His passion for education and deal analysis shines through as he offers practical advice for both LPs and GPs.In this episode we discuss:How did Aleksey Chernobelskiy carve out a niche in the real estate sector?What are the three pillars of LP investing according to Aleksey ?What are some common mistakes made by LPs when investing in syndications?How should LPs approach capital calls and assess whether to contribute more money?Why is it important for LPs to consider the financial strength of the general partner?What are some key factors to consider when assessing the financial strength of a GP?How does Aleksey advise LPs to approach the decision-making process when faced with a capital call?Struggling to find good multifamily deals? Looking to close deals with less of your own money? Want to operate like the pros and maximize the cash flow of your assets? Join The Multifamily Wealth Community, where we help multifamily investors start, build, and scale their businesses… specifically, those looking to grow from 1-10 units to 250+ units.Are you looking to invest in real estate, but don't want to deal with the hassle of finding great deals, signing on debt, and managing tenants? Aligned Real Estate Partners provides investment opportunities to passive investors looking for the returns, stability, and tax benefits multifamily real estate offers, but without the work - join our investor club to be notified of future investment opportunities.Connect with Axel:Follow him on InstagramConnect with him on LinkedInSubscribe to our YouTube channelLearn more about Aligned Real Estate PartnersConnect with Aleksey:Follow him on TwitterConnect with him on LinkedInSubscribe to his newsletter in Substack

Jan 5, 2024 • 10min
#208: PSA To New Investors - YOU Are Your Own Worst Enemy... How To Protect Yourself, From Yourself
In this solo episode, I get real about the importance of setting up checks and balances in your real estate business. I share a personal story from my first deal back in 2016, where a lack of due diligence led to a challenging situation when it came time to sell. Trust me, you don't want to miss these lessons learned the hard way!I also sprinkle in actionable advice on how to leverage property management services, the importance of using attorneys for legal documentation, and why you should always go through a broker when selling properties.In this episode, we discuss:The critical checks and balances every new investor should have in placeA real-life story about the challenges of private money financingHow to avoid becoming your own worst enemy in the investment processActionable tips on construction management, legal documentation, and working with brokersWhy involving competent professionals can be the difference between success and failureStruggling to find good multifamily deals? Looking to close deals with less of your own money? Want to operate like the pros and maximize the cash flow of your assets? Join The Multifamily Wealth Community, where we help multifamily investors start, build, and scale their businesses… specifically, those looking to grow from 1-10 units to 250+ units.Are you looking to invest in real estate, but don't want to deal with the hassle of finding great deals, signing on debt, and managing tenants? Aligned Real Estate Partners provides investment opportunities to passive investors looking for the returns, stability, and tax benefits multifamily real estate offers, but without the work - join our investor club to be notified of future investment opportunities.Connect with Axel:Follow him on InstagramConnect with him on LinkedInSubscribe to our YouTube channelLearn more about Aligned Real Estate Partners

Dec 26, 2023 • 7min
#207: Planning Your 2024? How To Set Goals That You'll Actually Achieve
In this quick solo episode, I dive deep into the art of setting process-oriented goals. Forget the flashy endgame metrics that everyone's talking about. Instead, I'll walk you through the actionable steps that will truly drive your multifamily investment success in the coming year.Typically, around this time of year, there's a surge in content about goals for the upcoming year, with many focusing on outcome metrics like units acquired, deals done, or revenue generated. While these give us a direction, I argue that they are not the most effective goals to track regularly.Instead, I advocate for setting process-oriented goals. These are the daily, weekly, or monthly activities that directly contribute to achieving the larger outcome metrics. By focusing on the process, we can control our inputs, even if we can't always control the outputs.In this episode, we discuss:Why is setting process-oriented goals important for the upcoming year?Why are process goals more effective than outcome goals?How to break down your big goals into actionable monthly targets?How important is tracking the right activities to achieve your real estate objectives?What are the specific strategies for making offers and securing deals in the multifamily space?Struggling to find good multifamily deals? Looking to close deals with less of your own money? Want to operate like the pros and maximize the cash flow of your assets? Join The Multifamily Wealth Community, where we help multifamily investors start, build, and scale their businesses… specifically, those looking to grow from 1-10 units to 250+ units.Are you looking to invest in real estate, but don't want to deal with the hassle of finding great deals, signing on debt, and managing tenants? Aligned Real Estate Partners provides investment opportunities to passive investors looking for the returns, stability, and tax benefits multifamily real estate offers, but without the work - join our investor club to be notified of future investment opportunities.Connect with Axel:Follow him on InstagramConnect with him on LinkedInSubscribe to our YouTube channelLearn more about Aligned Real Estate Partners

Dec 22, 2023 • 9min
#206: Should You Be Investing Available Cash Into NEW Properties Or Your EXISTING Portfolio?
In this solo episode, I dive deep into a critical question that every multifamily investor should be asking: "Where is the highest and best return for my dough?" It's a question that might seem straightforward, but as you'll hear, the answer requires a thoughtful approach, especially in today's market.I'll walk you through real-life scenarios, comparing the potential returns of investing in new properties versus optimizing your existing portfolio. From painting common areas to adding amenities, I discuss how small improvements can lead to significant increases in your property's net operating income (NOI) and overall value.In this episode, we discuss:What is the question that multifamily investors should be asking themselves when deciding where to invest their cash?How does the stability and optimization of the current portfolio affect the decision?What are some examples of ways to invest in the current portfolio to increase returns?What are the potential returns on investing in the current portfolio versus buying a new deal?What are the benefits of investing in the current portfolio versus a new asset?Struggling to find good multifamily deals? Looking to close deals with less of your own money? Want to operate like the pros and maximize the cash flow of your assets? Join The Multifamily Wealth Community, where we help multifamily investors start, build, and scale their businesses… specifically, those looking to grow from 1-10 units to 250+ units.Are you looking to invest in real estate, but don't want to deal with the hassle of finding great deals, signing on debt, and managing tenants? Aligned Real Estate Partners provides investment opportunities to passive investors looking for the returns, stability, and tax benefits multifamily real estate offers, but without the work - join our investor club to be notified of future investment opportunities.Connect with Axel:Follow him on InstagramConnect with him on LinkedInSubscribe to our YouTube channelLearn more about Aligned Real Estate Partners

Dec 19, 2023 • 11min
#205: The 5 Steps New Multifamily Investors Should Take When Breaking Into Multifamily Investing
In this quick solo episode, I've distilled the essence of breaking into commercial multifamily investing into five actionable steps, which is packed with valuable insights tailored specifically for newcomers eager to dive into the world of multifamily investing, as well as residential investors poised to make the leap into the commercial multifamily space.In this episode, we discuss:What are the five steps new investors should take when breaking into commercial multifamily or transitioning from residential investing?How can investors narrowly define their investment objectives to align with their desired returns?Why developing deep familiarity with your chosen market segment is crucial?What are the key relationships you need to build with service providers in your target market?How can following these steps help new investors grow better multifamily businesses?Struggling to find good multifamily deals? Looking to close deals with less of your own money? Want to operate like the pros and maximize the cash flow of your assets? Join The Multifamily Wealth Community, where we help multifamily investors start, build, and scale their businesses… specifically, those looking to grow from 1-10 units to 250+ units..Are you looking to invest in real estate, but don't want to deal with the hassle of finding great deals, signing on debt, and managing tenants? Aligned Real Estate Partners provides investment opportunities to passive investors looking for the returns, stability, and tax benefits multifamily real estate offers, but without the work - join our investor club to be notified of future investment opportunities.Connect with Axel:Follow him on InstagramConnect with him on LinkedInSubscribe to our YouTube channelLearn more about Aligned Real Estate Partners

Dec 15, 2023 • 8min
#204: The Simple JV Partnership Structure Any Investor Can Use With A Money Partner
In this episode, I dive into a topic that many active multifamily investors struggle with - how to structure partnerships when working with just one large LP or money partner. I share a simple partnership structure that can help you navigate this process effectively. Please note that while I provide conceptual advice, it's important to consult with an attorney to ensure compliance with legal requirements.Throughout the episode, I walk you through a hypothetical situation, explaining how I personally approach and have successfully implemented this structure in our business. I cover important aspects such as operating agreements, preferred returns, splits, and overall value creation.In this episode we discuss:How can investors compensate their money partner with a preferred return and profit split?What are the considerations when structuring the deal to meet bank requirements and SEC compliance?How can investors navigate the equity threshold with the bank when bringing in a big investor?What are the benefits of using a preferred return and profit split structure in communicating with investors?How can investors start putting together joint ventures and partnerships with this structure?Struggling to find good multifamily deals? Looking to close deals with less of your own money? Want to operate like the pros and maximize the cash flow of your assets? Join The Multifamily Wealth Community, where we help multifamily investors start, build, and scale their businesses… specifically, those looking to grow from 1-10 units to 250+ units.Are you looking to invest in real estate, but don't want to deal with the hassle of finding great deals, signing on debt, and managing tenants? Aligned Real Estate Partners provides investment opportunities to passive investors looking for the returns, stability, and tax benefits multifamily real estate offers, but without the work - join our investor club to be notified of future investment opportunities.Connect with Axel:Follow him on InstagramConnect with him on LinkedInSubscribe to our YouTube channelLearn more about Aligned Real Estate Partners

Dec 12, 2023 • 41min
#203: How To Start Marketing Direct-To-Seller and Efficiently Leverage a CRM with REsimpli's CEO, Sharad Mehta
In this episode of the Multifamily Wealth Podcast, I sit down with Sharad Mehta, founder and CEO of REsimpli. With over 50 doors in his rental portfolio, 45 of which are paid off, Sharad is not only a successful real estate investor but also a leading expert in real estate-specific CRMs.During the conversation, Sharad shares his insights on the importance of using a CRM for real estate investors, particularly when it comes to direct-to-seller marketing. He emphasizes the value of streamlining and systematizing lead nurturing through features like drip campaigns, which allow investors to automate follow-ups and stay top of mind with potential sellers.The discussion also delves into the strategies and best practices for going direct-to-seller in the multifamily space. Sharad highlights the effectiveness of direct mail in building relationships with sophisticated sellers and offers advice on targeting specific lists and sending multiple touches to establish credibility and rapport.In this episode we discuss:How can real estate investors effectively utilize a CRM for direct-to-seller marketing?What are the key functions of a CRM in the real estate industry?Why is consistent follow-up crucial in nurturing leads and building rapport with sellers?What are the best strategies for going direct-to-seller in the multifamily market?Should investors focus on sending more mailings to a smaller, targeted list or fewer mailings to a larger list?How can direct mail be an effective marketing strategy for multifamily properties?What is the importance of building a reputation and staying top of mind with sellers through consistent marketing efforts?Struggling to find good multifamily deals? Looking to close deals with less of your own money? Want to operate like the pros and maximize the cash flow of your assets? Join The Multifamily Wealth Community, where we help multifamily investors start, build, and scale their businesses… specifically, those looking to grow from 1-10 units to 250+ units.Are you looking to invest in real estate, but don't want to deal with the hassle of finding great deals, signing on debt, and managing tenants? Aligned Real Estate Partners provides investment opportunities to passive investors looking for the returns, stability, and tax benefits multifamily real estate offers, but without the work - join our investor club to be notified of future investment opportunities.Connect with Axel:Follow him on InstagramConnect with him on LinkedInSubscribe to our YouTube channelLearn more about Aligned Real Estate PartnersUse Axel's ReSimpli affiliate codeConnect with Sharad:Connect with him on LinkedInReach out to him on his EmailLearn more about REsimpli

Dec 5, 2023 • 44min
#202: A Tactical, Data-Driven Discussion About Market Selection and Asset Management with Neal Bawa
In this episode of the Multifamily Wealth Podcast, we sit down with Neal Bawa, a highly regarded syndicator in the real estate industry. With a background in technology and data science, Neal brings a unique perspective to the world of real estate investing. He has successfully invested in various asset classes, including multifamily, industrial, mobile home parks, self-storage, and built-to-rent communities.During our conversation, Neal shares his data-driven approach to market selection and underwriting, highlighting the importance of evaluating cities based on factors such as population growth, job growth, home price growth, income growth, and crime reduction. He also emphasizes the significance of considering property taxes and insurance costs when making investment decisions, as these factors can have a significant impact on profitability.We delve into Neal's asset management strategies, including the use of dashboards and data visualization to track key performance indicators (KPIs) and hold property managers accountable. He explains how his team utilizes an efficiency center, consisting of both US-based and overseas talent, to streamline operations and enhance efficiency.Towards the end of the episode, Neal discusses his current focus on built-to-rent (BTR) properties, explaining the changing dynamics of the rental market and the increasing demand for single-family rentals among millennials.In this episode we discuss:How does Neal use data science to select the best markets for real estate investment?What is the significance of low property taxes and insurance in maximizing profits in real estate investing?How does Neal's team utilize dashboards and data visualization to improve asset management?What is the role of overseas talent in Neal's asset management strategy?How does Neal maintain accountability and communication with property management teams?What are the key metrics and KPIs that Neal tracks in ongoing asset management?What is Neal's current focus in the real estate market, specifically in the built-to-rent asset class?Struggling to find good multifamily deals? Looking to close deals with less of your own money? Want to operate like the pros and maximize the cash flow of your assets? Join The Multifamily Wealth Community, where we help multifamily investors start, build, and scale their businesses… specifically, those looking to grow from 1-10 units to 250+ units.Are you looking to invest in real estate, but don't want to deal with the hassle of finding great deals, signing on debt, and managing tenants? Aligned Real Estate Partners provides investment opportunities to passive investors looking for the returns, stability, and tax benefits multifamily real estate offers, but without the work - join our investor club to be notified of future investment opportunities.Connect with Axel:Follow him on InstagramConnect with him on LinkedInSubscribe to our YouTube channelLearn more about Aligned Real Estate PartnersConnect with Neal:Connect with him on LinkedInLearn more about Mission 10KSmart investing made easy with Multifamily University

Dec 1, 2023 • 9min
#201: How To Be PROACTIVE When Leasing Units... Get On The Right Leasing Cycles!
In this episode, we discuss the importance of offering multiple leasing options and incentives to prospective residents. We dive into the strategies used by sophisticated multifamily owner-operators and how they can be applied to maximize success in your own business.If you're currently leasing units in the winter, I highly recommend considering 18-month leases to incentivize residents to stay longer. I also touch on the option of shorter leases, such as six or nine months, to help you get on a better leasing cycle.In this episode we discuss:How can you lease your vacant units like a pro during off-peak leasing seasons?What lease terms should you offer to put yourself in a position to lease most units during the peak season?How can you model your operations and asset management after the best operators in the country?How can you incentivize applicants to sign longer lease terms without losing rent?What strategies do sophisticated multifamily owner-operators use to lease their units?Struggling to find good multifamily deals? Looking to close deals with less of your own money? Want to operate like the pros and maximize the cash flow of your assets? Join The Multifamily Wealth Community, where we help multifamily investors start, build, and scale their businesses… specifically, those looking to grow from 1-10 units to 250+ units.Are you looking to invest in real estate, but don't want to deal with the hassle of finding great deals, signing on debt, and managing tenants? Aligned Real Estate Partners provides investment opportunities to passive investors looking for the returns, stability, and tax benefits multifamily real estate offers, but without the work - join our investor club to be notified of future investment opportunities.Connect with Axel:Follow him on InstagramConnect with him on LinkedInSubscribe to our YouTube channelLearn more about Aligned Real Estate Partners

Nov 28, 2023 • 15min
#200: Thank You For 200 Episodes! An Update on Aligned Real Estate Partners + Our 2024 Goals
In this special episode of the Multifamily Wealth Podcast, we celebrate reaching episode number 200! It's been an incredible journey over the last three and a half years - through this podcast, I've had the privilege of connecting with amazing individuals - partners, investors, vendors, and so many others - who have enriched our business in countless ways.In this special episode, I take a moment to reflect on the impact this podcast has had on our business and share some insights into what we do at Aligned Real Estate Partners. I understand that many of you may have joined us recently and may not be familiar with our story, so I wanted to take this opportunity to provide some context and validation for the topics we discuss on the show.Here's to 200 more!============Struggling to find good multifamily deals? Looking to close deals with less of your own money? Want to operate like the pros and maximize the cash flow of your assets? Join The Multifamily Wealth Community, where we help multifamily investors start, build, and scale their businesses… specifically, those looking to grow from 1-10 units to 250+ units.Are you looking to invest in real estate, but don't want to deal with the hassle of finding great deals, signing on debt, and managing tenants? Aligned Real Estate Partners provides investment opportunities to passive investors looking for the returns, stability, and tax benefits multifamily real estate offers, but without the work - join our investor club to be notified of future investment opportunities.Connect with Axel:Follow him on InstagramConnect with him on LinkedInSubscribe to our YouTube channelLearn more about Aligned Real Estate Partners
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