PassivePockets: The Passive Real Estate Investing Show

We’re back with another episode of Dig In or Delete, where Jim Pfeifer and Paul Shannon react to real investment pitches from their inbox and decide whether each one is worth a deeper look or should be deleted on the spot. This week’s lineup includes a six-property self-storage deal in Arkansas, a triple-net Starbucks opportunity with a 4.5% cap, and a cash-out refinance pitch for a 68-unit apartment building. Jim and Paul break down the good, the bad, and the questionable, offering LP investors a candid look at how seasoned pros filter their deal flow. You’ll hear how they evaluate everything from leverage and cap rate to operator communication and downside protection and why most pitches get deleted without a second thought. Key Takeaways: How experienced LPs quickly filter incoming investment pitches Red flags in deal presentations, underwriting, and language Why triple-net deals aren’t always “passive” or low risk What makes storage look appealing—and what might be missing How debt structure and cash-out refinances affect risk profile Why sponsor transparency is often more important than returns What to ask before replying to a deal that lands in your inbox How to build your own “delete” filter to save time and protect capital Disclaimer The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only. All host and participant opinions are their own. Investment in any asset, real estate included, involves risk, so use your best judgment and consult with qualified advisors before investing. You should only risk capital you can afford to lose. Remember that past performance is not indicative of future results. This podcast may contain paid advertisements or other promotional materials for real estate investment advisers, investment funds, and investment opportunities, which should not be interpreted as a recommendation, endorsement, or testimonial by PassivePockets, LLC or any of its affiliates. Viewers must conduct their own due diligence and consider their own financial situations before engaging with any of the advertised offerings, products, or services. PassivePockets, LLC disclaims all liability for direct, indirect, consequential, or other damages arising out of reliance on information and advertisements presented in this podcast.

How should LPs evaluate retail real estate deals, especially when the strategy involves stabilized shopping centers and low leverage? In this episode, Paul Shannon is joined by Andy Weiner of RockStep Capital to walk through a real-life deal and answer questions from a panel of passive investors including expert LPs Pascal Wagner and Adam Cranmer. Andy lays out his firm’s “hometown market” strategy, targeting power centers and neighborhood retail with national tenants in overlooked metros. He breaks down the underwriting, loan structure, and business plan behind a recently acquired asset and why retail investors should pay close attention to tenant quality, lease structures, and local relationships. Our LP panel gets details on deal terms, downside protection, and risk-adjusted return, offering a front-row seat to the kind of conversation you should be having before wiring your funds. Key Takeaways: How RockStep finds and underwrites stabilized shopping centers Why the team favors open-air retail over enclosed malls What lease terms and tenant types reduce risk How “hometown markets” create pricing advantages The role of low leverage and longer-term debt in today’s market When retail outperforms industrial and multifamily How to evaluate sponsor experience and alignment What passive investors should ask before funding a retail deal Disclaimer: The comments, views, opinions and any forecasts of future events, returns or results expressed in this episode reflect the opinions of the given host or participants (including the personal opinions of PassivePockets employees or contractors, as applicable), are subject to change without notice, do not reflect the views of PassivePockets or its affiliates, may not reflect actual investment results, are not guarantees of future events, returns or results and are not intended to provide financial planning, investment advice, legal advice or tax advice. The accuracy, completeness or suitability of the information discussed in this podcast, including any comments, views, opinions, forecasts, graphs, charts, ratings, reviews, videos, and other audio and/or visual aids cannot be guaranteed, are not reviewed by PassivePockets, are provided for informational purposes only, and should not be solely relied upon in making an investment decision. PassivePockets receives compensation from sponsors in exchange for profiling sponsors and/or their sponsored deals in this episode; however, such paid advertisements shall not be construed as an endorsement, testimonial, or recommendation by PassivePockets to invest in any sponsor, investment strategy or investment opportunity. Investing in real estate is inherently risky and suitable only for sophisticated and qualified investors. Prospective investors should consult with their own investment advisors, financial advisors, and tax advisors, as applicable, in connection with any decision to invest.

What’s better: FIRE or “flow”? Owning rentals or investing in syndications? Jim Pfeifer and Scott Trench (former CEO of BiggerPockets) go head-to-head in a friendly but fiery debate about cash flow, control, diversification, and what financial freedom really looks like. Scott explains why, even as a FIRE advocate, he can’t bring himself to follow the traditional 4% withdrawal rule—and why most retirees don’t either. He shares the logic behind his personal portfolio strategy, which includes mostly unlevered Denver real estate, plus a small allocation to syndications and debt funds. Jim brings a counterpoint: for investors who aren’t handy or don’t want to actively manage properties, passive syndications can offer better risk-adjusted returns and geographic diversification. Together, they explore how goals, personality, and life stage shape the right mix between active and passive investing. If you’ve ever struggled to decide between owning properties or being a limited partner, this episode is for you. Key Takeaways: Why most FIRE adherents don’t actually draw down their portfolios The psychological and practical barriers to decumulation What makes real estate cash flow feel “spendable” vs. stock dividends Why Scott prefers unlevered rentals in Denver When syndications make sense—even for hands-on investors The power of credit/debt funds (especially inside an IRA) The risks of concentration vs. the benefits of control How your skills, lifestyle, and market shape your investing strategy Disclaimer The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only. All host and participant opinions are their own. Investment in any asset, real estate included, involves risk, so use your best judgment and consult with qualified advisors before investing. You should only risk capital you can afford to lose. Remember that past performance is not indicative of future results. This podcast may contain paid advertisements or other promotional materials for real estate investment advisers, investment funds, and investment opportunities, which should not be interpreted as a recommendation, endorsement, or testimonial by PassivePockets, LLC or any of its affiliates. Viewers must conduct their own due diligence and consider their own financial situations before engaging with any of the advertised offerings, products, or services. PassivePockets, LLC disclaims all liability for direct, indirect, consequential, or other damages arising out of reliance on information and advertisements presented in this podcast.

Brian Burke, a seasoned real estate investor and founder of Praxis Capital, discusses his bold shift from multifamily investing to focusing on assisted living and skilled nursing facilities. He reveals the market signals that prompted this transition and highlights the stability of triple-net lease structures. Burke emphasizes the critical role of operator selection in determining investment success and explores financing strategies like HUD loans that can boost returns. His insights offer a valuable perspective for passive investors eyeing this emerging asset class.

Eric Sussman, a seasoned real estate investor, CPA, and UCLA professor, offers valuable insights on the shifting dynamics of capital markets. He discusses the impact of inflation, rate policy, and lending trends on investors and sponsors alike. Eric explains why misaligned capital stacks can affect passive investors and emphasizes the importance of trust and disciplined underwriting. He provocatively argues that some deals should fail to ensure a healthier market long-term, shedding light on how institutional players are preparing for potential distress.

Join the Active to Passive Cohort (Starts July 28): https://get.biggerpockets.com/active-to-passive-investing/ Passive Pockets members save $100! Find your promo code here: https://passivepockets.com/forums-listing/discussion/5-week-cohort-starts-7-28-active-to-passive-portfolio-transformation-cohort/ Contact Chris Lopez: chrislopez@biggerpockets.com Is your real estate portfolio truly aligned with your goals or is it just what you've accumulated over time? Chris Lopez, investor, educator, and founder of the Active to Passive cohort, joins Passive Pockets to share why he pivoted away from being a hands-on landlord and how he's helping others rethink their equity, their time, and their strategy. In this episode, you’ll learn how to evaluate return on equity versus return on investment, what it means to “optimize” your portfolio in today’s market, and when selling, refinancing, or simply holding might be the smartest move. Chris also shares his step-by-step framework for running an annual diagnostic on your portfolio and how to use that analysis to decide if a shift toward passive investing makes sense. Plus, stick around as Chris breaks down the five pillars of passive investing diversification and offers a sneak peek into his upcoming July cohort for experienced landlords exploring a hands-off path forward. Disclaimer The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only. All host and participant opinions are their own. Investment in any asset, real estate included, involves risk, so use your best judgment and consult with qualified advisors before investing. You should only risk capital you can afford to lose. Remember that past performance is not indicative of future results. This podcast may contain paid advertisements or other promotional materials for real estate investment advisers, investment funds, and investment opportunities, which should not be interpreted as a recommendation, endorsement, or testimonial by PassivePockets, LLC or any of its affiliates. Viewers must conduct their own due diligence and consider their own financial situations before engaging with any of the advertised offerings, products, or services. PassivePockets, LLC disclaims all liability for direct, indirect, consequential, or other damages arising out of reliance on information and advertisements presented in this podcast. Why Chris sold off half his Denver portfolio despite great returns The difference between return on investment and return on equity How to run an annual “portfolio diagnostic” to evaluate performance When a 1031 exchange might not be the most efficient move How to diversify across operators, strategies, markets, and capital stack The mental shift required to give up control—but gain peace of mind What Chris’s Active to Passive cohort includes, and who it’s for

Real estate deal flow is buzzing again, but can passive investors spot the gems among the noise? Dive into real-time evaluations of intriguing opportunities, from a Seattle multifamily property with questionable metrics to a declining mall's BJ's Brewhouse ground lease. Jim and Paul discuss market dynamics, skepticism toward sky-high returns, and the importance of due diligence. Plus, discover the marketing tactics that trigger a quick delete. This insightful analysis provides the tools to navigate the new landscape of passive investing.

Investing in mobile home parks can rebuild your real estate empire efficiently after economic setbacks. How do you navigate this sector to ensure sustainable growth and returns? Kevin Bupp, a seasoned investor with a wealth of experience in various real estate asset classes, shares his journey and insights into this unique investment space. In this episode, you’ll learn the intricacies of mobile home park investments, from understanding market dynamics to overcoming infrastructure challenges. The conversation dives into the evolution of this sector, highlighting both increased lending opportunities and rising competition. Thinking of affordable housing as a solution for your real estate portfolio? You won't want to miss Kevin's strategic approach. Plus, stick around as Kevin spills secrets on creative ways to enhance value in mobile home parks and teases insights into the often-overlooked world of parking lot investments. Disclaimer The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only. All host and participant opinions are their own. Investment in any asset, real estate included, involves risk, so use your best judgment and consult with qualified advisors before investing. You should only risk capital you can afford to lose. Remember that past performance is not indicative of future results. This podcast may contain paid advertisements or other promotional materials for real estate investment advisers, investment funds, and investment opportunities, which should not be interpreted as a recommendation, endorsement, or testimonial by PassivePockets, LLC or any of its affiliates. Viewers must conduct their own due diligence and consider their own financial situations before engaging with any of the advertised offerings, products, or services. PassivePockets, LLC disclaims all liability for direct, indirect, consequential, or other damages arising out of reliance on information and advertisements presented in this podcast. Kevin's transition from single-family homes to mobile home parks post-2008 The impact of lending and market competition on mobile home park investments Infrastructure challenges and how to navigate them effectively The role of property management in optimizing park operations Exploring the parallel between mobile home parks and parking lots as viable investment sectors Understanding dynamic pricing and technology enhancements in parking management Kevin's insights on dealing with private utilities and community management

What if you could pay taxes on a smaller amount while investing in the same deals—and then watch your money grow tax-free for decades? In this episode, we explore a little-known strategy that allows investors to convert traditional retirement accounts to Roth at a discount, even when those funds are tied up in illiquid syndications. Today, we’re joined by John Bowens, a self-directed retirement expert from Equity Trust, to walk us through the “discount conversion” strategy and other advanced tax planning tools for passive investors. John explains how real estate syndications, solo 401(k)s, and Roth conversions can work together to help you minimize taxes, create tax-free income, and even build legacy wealth for future generations. If you’re holding pre-tax retirement funds, investing in private real estate, or just tired of giving up a chunk of your gains to the IRS, this episode breaks down the tax code strategies that smart LPs are using to protect and grow their wealth. Disclaimer The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only. All host and participant opinions are their own. Investment in any asset, real estate included, involves risk, so use your best judgment and consult with qualified advisors before investing. You should only risk capital you can afford to lose. Remember that past performance is not indicative of future results. This podcast may contain paid advertisements or other promotional materials for real estate investment advisers, investment funds, and investment opportunities, which should not be interpreted as a recommendation, endorsement, or testimonial by PassivePockets, LLC or any of its affiliates. Viewers must conduct their own due diligence and consider their own financial situations before engaging with any of the advertised offerings, products, or services. PassivePockets, LLC disclaims all liability for direct, indirect, consequential, or other damages arising out of reliance on information and advertisements presented in this podcast. In This Episode We Cover The basics of Roth conversions and how they apply to self-directed IRAs and solo 401(k)s The “discount conversion” strategy and how investors are saving thousands in taxes How to convert illiquid syndication investments without selling Key differences between traditional IRAs, solo 401(k)s, and checkbook-controlled accounts When Roth conversions make sense and how to model out your tax impact And So Much More!

AI integration in real estate investing allows savvy investors to make faster, smarter decisions and avoid costly mistakes. So, how can you leverage AI tools to evaluate deals and optimize your investment strategy? Leyla Kunimoto, a finance expert and limited partner, joins us to share her insights on using AI for real estate due diligence. In this episode, you’ll learn how real estate investors can employ AI to analyze deal pro formas, identify risks, and pinpoint key follow-up questions for sponsors. With informative and professional discussions, you'll discover how AI can streamline your investment processes and offer a tactical edge in deal evaluation. Curious about how AI can enhance your investment strategy? Tune in to find out. Plus, we delve into the nuances of pro forma analysis and the potential for AI to uncover historical deal mistakes, offering invaluable insights to refine your investing skills. Topics Covered The role of AI in evaluating real estate deals Benefits of integrating AI tools like Notebook LM into your workflow Overcoming skepticism and embracing AI for investment analysis How AI highlights key risk factors and informs strategic decision-making Using AI for operator and fund evaluations Example scenarios where AI uncovered unexpected deal insights Tips for crafting effective prompts to maximize AI usefulness