BiggerPockets Real Estate Podcast

Tony Robinson, a top short-term rental investor and host of the Real Estate Rookie Podcast, joins Henry Washington, a long-term rental investor, to enlighten newcomers on starting their real estate journey in 2025. They share essential steps for beginners, discussing whether to pursue short-term or long-term rentals and the importance of market selection. The duo emphasizes learning from mistakes, utilizing data for confidence, and the significance of thorough documentation. Their insights aim to empower aspiring investors to avoid rookie pitfalls.

Ashley Kehr, a savvy investor in Buffalo, and Henry Washington, an expert in off-market deals, team up to reveal how you can acquire cash-flowing rental properties under $75,000. They showcase three real, on-market deals that meet this budget. The duo discusses the vibrant rental markets in Buffalo and Racine, along with strategies for identifying lucrative opportunities. They emphasize the 1% rule and share insights on maintaining cash reserves, all while debunking myths about needing a large budget to succeed in real estate.

In this conversation, real estate investor Stuart Udis shares his journey from law school to mastering property rezoning in Philadelphia. He reveals how he identifies overlooked areas with high demand but limited inventory. By leveraging zoning laws, Stuart successfully changes land designations, allowing him to build and sell homes quickly at premium prices. He also discusses the essential relationships with local communities and regulatory bodies, crucial for gaining support and approvals, making rezoning an untapped strategy for aspiring investors.

Henry Washington, a savvy real estate investor and author, shares candid insights about the less glamorous side of real estate investing. He emphasizes that aspiring investors don't need to become agents first, and highlights the importance of effective communication, especially with contractors. The conversation also tackles the pitfalls of virtual staging and the need for honesty in property listings. Moreover, they offer actionable tips for new investors to avoid stress and financial headaches, advocating for realistic goal-setting in the often chaotic world of real estate.

The housing market is showing signs of change, with potentially discounted real estate deals expected this winter. Despite a steep decline in home sales, prices remain high due to affordability issues and reluctant homeowners. The podcast explores predictions for mortgage rates and the potential for price drops. It emphasizes the need for patience among investors as they navigate a market impacted by high prices and low demand. Additionally, key insights into rent trends reveal contrasting opportunities worth considering.

Joe Escamilla and Sam Farman, college soccer teammates turned successful real estate investors, share their journey of building an impressive rental portfolio in just three years using a delayed BRRRR strategy. They discuss the pivotal role of choosing the right investing partners, the intricacies of navigating high competition in the market, and how they transformed a duplex into multiple rental properties. Additionally, they dive into raising private capital and the importance of managing investor expectations for sustainable growth.

In this discussion, Ashley Kehr, co-host of the Real Estate Rookie Podcast and a cash-flow investor, shines a spotlight on the lucrative 'lake effect' cash flow opportunities in the Great Lakes region. She reveals how investors can buy affordable homes while boasting high rental prices, contributing to significant monthly cash flow. The conversation dives into the revitalization of cities like Buffalo and Erie, the influx of tech companies, and why certain markets are becoming increasingly attractive and future-proof for real estate investors.

Join Caeli Ridge, a mortgage lender specializing in investor loans, as she breaks down the current mortgage landscape. She discusses the recent unexpected rise in mortgage rates and gives advice on whether now is the right time to refinance. Caeli also reveals an ingenious HELOC hack that allows you to minimize interest payments while maximizing liquidity. With her insights on where rates might head next, you’ll gain valuable knowledge to navigate your refinancing and investment strategies.

In this conversation, Jon Boyd, a full-time real estate investor who left a $40K job to support his family of six, shares his remarkable journey. He discusses his innovative direct-to-seller marketing strategy that has helped him close over 20 deals and build a portfolio of five rental properties in just two years. Henry Washington chimes in with advice on navigating financial safety nets and the importance of building relationships with sellers. Their inspiring stories demonstrate how calculated risks can lead to significant wealth through real estate.

James Dainard, a seasoned rental property investor and house flipper with two decades in Seattle's real estate scene, shares his expertise. He reveals how to identify up-and-coming neighborhoods before they explode in value. Dainard discusses the significance of zoning and local economic factors in investment decisions. He debates whether to prioritize deals or neighborhoods first and highlights strategies to enhance cash flow while minimizing vacancy rates. His insights offer a roadmap for savvy investors looking to capitalize on hidden gems.