The Smart Real Estate Coach Podcast|Real Estate Investing

Ever wondered how to break into U.S. real estate investing—even if you're based in another country? This week, I sit down with Glen Sutherland, a Canadian investor who successfully scaled his real estate business by expanding into the U.S. Glen shares the advantages of investing across borders, including access to creative financing strategies, long-term mortgages, and public data that makes deal sourcing easier. We dive into the step-by-step process of setting up a remote investing operation, from choosing the right markets to building a reliable team on the ground. Glen also shares key insights on structuring deals, financing options, and the biggest mistakes international investors make when entering the U.S. market. If you've ever considered investing outside your home country, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you get started. Episode Highlights [0:00] – Introduction [2:00] – How Glen transitioned from investing in Canada to the U.S. [4:05] – The biggest advantages of investing in the U.S. market [7:18] – How to build and manage a real estate team remotely [10:09] – Creative financing strategies: sub-to deals, seller financing, and lease options [12:32] – The importance of having multiple contractors and property managers [15:33] – Generating leads through property managers, contractors, and attorneys [17:05] – Common tax and legal pitfalls for Canadians investing in the U.S. [20:50] – How Glen helps others break into U.S. real estate investing [23:10] – Understanding corporate structures for tax efficiency [25:35] – Why 30-year mortgages in the U.S. offer more stability than Canada's system [27:00] – The role of public data access in making informed investment decisions Key Takeaways 1. U.S. real estate offers more creative financing opportunities – Investors can leverage strategies like subject-to deals, seller financing, and lease options, which are harder to execute in Canada due to regulations. 2. Building a strong remote team is crucial – Success in out-of-state or international investing depends on hiring reliable contractors, property managers, and local experts to manage properties effectively. 3. Understanding tax structures can save investors thousands – Canadian investors need to structure their U.S. investments properly to avoid double taxation and optimize for cross-border tax benefits. 4. Having access to public data gives U.S. investors a competitive edge – Unlike Canada, the U.S. provides easy access to property sales history, ownership details, and mortgage information, making it easier to analyze deals. 5. Long-term fixed-rate mortgages provide stability – The U.S. mortgage system allows for 30-year fixed loans, which help investors predict cash flow and avoid financial uncertainty when interest rates change. Links & Resources • Connect with Glen: GlenSutherland.com • Learn more about our coaching & events: SmartRealEstateCoach.com Links Apartments 101: The Apartment Investing Masterclass https://apartments101.co Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/financial-freedom-with-real-estate-investing/id848693430 https://www.amazon.com/Financial-Freedom-Real-Estate-Investing/dp/1986532364 Real Estate On Your Terms and Deal Structure Overtime https://wickedsmartbooks.com/podcast FREE Master's Class https://wickedsmartacademy.com/mastersclass FREE Strategy Session with Chris Pre https://smartrealestatecoach.com/chrisprecall FREE Workshop https://smartrealestatecoach.com/pcws QLS Homestudy Course https://wickedsmartacademy.com/course/qls-homestudy-4 Investor Resources https://smartrealestatecoach.com/resources 3 Paydays Apprentice https://smartrealestatecoach.com/apprentice-pod In the Trenches Bootcamp https://smartrealestatecoach.com/ittb-pod REI Blackbook https://smartrealestatecoach.com/REIBB-DD If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast. Your support helps us continue delivering valuable insights for real estate investors.

In this episode of Smart Real Estate Coach, you'll hear from Michael Blank, a multifamily investing expert, bestselling author, and CEO of Nighthawk Equity. With a $300 million+ portfolio and a track record of helping students acquire over 40,000 multifamily units, Michael shares his journey from tech entrepreneur to real estate mogul. He opens up about the lessons learned from a failed restaurant venture and why multifamily investing is the fastest path to financial freedom. Discover how to break into multifamily real estate, debunk common myths, and start without years of experience or personal capital. Michael shares strategies for scaling, raising capital, and building a recession-resistant portfolio. If you're ready to level up, this episode is packed with actionable insights for success. Key Talking Points of the Episode 00:00 Introduction 03:53 How Michael went from restaurant owner to real estate investor 06:55 Why single-family is not the best way to achieve financial freedom 07:57 Overcoming the challenges of failing in the restaurant industry 10:31 The story behind Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing 11:47 Debunking the biggest myths about multifamily investing 13:25 What is a syndication? 14:21 Deal finders vs. Capital raisers 15:37 Deals from Nighthawk Equity 17:06 How to find deals that will work for you 19:22 The plan to scale Nighthawk Equity 20:08 Learn more about apartment investing with Michael 21:00 The importance of clarity in real estate investing 24:16 What is financial freedom about? Quotables "You don't need years of experience to buy an apartment building—you just need the right team and strategy." "If you think flipping houses will make you financially free, think again. Multifamily is the real path to wealth." "Real estate isn't just about making money—it's about creating freedom, legacy, and impact." Links Apartments 101: The Apartment Investing Masterclass https://apartments101.co Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/financial-freedom-with-real-estate-investing/id848693430 https://www.amazon.com/Financial-Freedom-Real-Estate-Investing/dp/1986532364 Real Estate On Your Terms and Deal Structure Overtime https://wickedsmartbooks.com/podcast FREE Master's Class https://wickedsmartacademy.com/mastersclass FREE Strategy Session with Chris Pre https://smartrealestatecoach.com/chrisprecall FREE Workshop https://smartrealestatecoach.com/pcws QLS Homestudy Course https://wickedsmartacademy.com/course/qls-homestudy-4 Investor Resources https://smartrealestatecoach.com/resources 3 Paydays Apprentice https://smartrealestatecoach.com/apprentice-pod In the Trenches Bootcamp https://smartrealestatecoach.com/ittb-pod REI Blackbook https://smartrealestatecoach.com/REIBB-DD

In this episode of Smart Real Estate Coach, Shaun Farr, President of Landvoice, shares how data-driven lead generation is transforming real estate investing. With over two decades of experience, he's helped investors and agents secure high-quality, off-market deals before they hit the mainstream. We discuss how expired listings, FSBOs, and pre-foreclosures provide an edge in today's low-inventory market, and why economic shifts make now the time for smart investors to take action. If you're looking for better leads, higher conversion rates, and a way to stay ahead of the competition, this episode is packed with actionable strategies and exclusive insights. Key Talking Points of the Episode 00:00 Introduction 01:33 Who is Shaun Farr? 03:25 How Shaun got into real estate investing 07:29 Shaun's transition from investing to real estate tech 10:33 Understanding the biggest pain points for investors 12:34 The story behind Landvoice 14:19 How expired listings can create great opportunities for investors 17:56 Understanding pre-foreclosures 23:32 The factors that contribute to seller distress 25:03 Finding opportunities in distressed seller data 27:27 Having the right conversations with sellers in distress 31:29 Get discounted data from Landvoice 34:33 What is Data Genie? Quotables "The biggest struggle for investors today isn't financing—it's finding quality leads in a low-inventory market." "Expired listings are gold. These homeowners wanted to sell but didn't—meaning they're motivated and open to creative deals." "Data is power. The right leads at the right time can make or break your real estate business." Links Landvoice https://landvoice.com/srec Real Estate On Your Terms and Deal Structure Overtime https://wickedsmartbooks.com/podcast FREE Master's Class https://wickedsmartacademy.com/mastersclass FREE Strategy Session with Chris Pre https://smartrealestatecoach.com/chrisprecall FREE Workshop https://smartrealestatecoach.com/pcws QLS Homestudy Course https://wickedsmartacademy.com/course/qls-homestudy-4 Investor Resources https://smartrealestatecoach.com/resources 3 Paydays Apprentice https://smartrealestatecoach.com/apprentice-pod In the Trenches Bootcamp https://smartrealestatecoach.com/ittb-pod REI Blackbook https://smartrealestatecoach.com/REIBB-DD

In this episode of the Smart Real Estate Coach Podcast, I sit down with Brett Riggins, founder of Connect Homebuyers and Physician Wealth Systems. Brett has navigated over $20 million in real estate transactions and weathered multiple market cycles. We explore the mindset shifts behind his success, lessons from wins and failures, and how he helps physicians and high-income earners build wealth through turnkey real estate investments. Brett shares insights on the power of the right connections, overcoming time and money hurdles, and the value of imperfect action. Whether you're a new or seasoned investor, this episode will challenge you to rethink your approach to business and life. Key Talking Points of the Episode 00:00 Introduction 03:23 Who is Brett Riggins? 06:23 The spark behind Physician Wealth Systems 07:27 Why mindset is the foundation of success 09:30 How the people around you shape your growth 11:20 Overcoming common investor challenges: Time, money, and analysis paralysis 14:30 Brett's biggest struggles and wins in business in 2024 18:40 Stackable returns: The four pillars of long-term real estate wealth 24:05 Choosing the right markets to invest in 26:05 Shifting your mindset to see opportunities everywhere 27:10 Get in touch with Brett and his team Quotables "Change your mind, change your life. Everything we do starts with a thought." "Imperfect action is still action. You don't need it to be perfect to make progress." "Simple exposure to the right people can create inflection points that change your life." Links Physician Wealth Systems https://physicianwealthsystems.com/ Real Estate Mogul, M.D. https://realestatemogulmd.com/about-us/ Real Estate On Your Terms and Deal Structure Overtime https://wickedsmartbooks.com/podcast FREE Master's Class https://wickedsmartacademy.com/mastersclass FREE Strategy Session with Chris Pre https://smartrealestatecoach.com/chrisprecall FREE Workshop https://smartrealestatecoach.com/pcws QLS Homestudy Course https://wickedsmartacademy.com/course/qls-homestudy-4 Investor Resources https://smartrealestatecoach.com/resources 3 Paydays Apprentice https://smartrealestatecoach.com/apprentice-pod In the Trenches Bootcamp https://smartrealestatecoach.com/ittb-pod REI Blackbook https://smartrealestatecoach.com/REIBB-DD

In this episode of the Smart Real Estate Coach Podcast, we're chatting with Andrei Mincov, founder and CEO of Trademark Factory, about why trademarking should be a top priority for entrepreneurs, real estate professionals, and small business owners like you. Andrei shares essential insights on when and how to trademark, the risks you face if you don't secure your intellectual property, and actionable steps you can take to avoid costly litigation. You'll also learn the critical difference between truly owning your brand and simply operating under it, giving you a clear roadmap to protect your business and secure its future success. Tune in for actionable insights that will help you protect your business as you grow and succeed! Key Talking Points of the Episode 00:00 Introduction 01:40 Who is Andrei Mincov? 03:54 Why trademarking matters for entrepreneurs 09:03 When and how to trademark your business 15:02 The 3 stages of brand protection 18:42 The cost and timeframe of trademarking 21:30 Why you need to take action early and protect your brand 23:23 The consequences of trademark infringement 25:01 Learn more about trademarking Quotables "A brand you can't legally own is not a brand—it's just a wish." "You can do it anytime, as long as it's one day before somebody else does it." "Think of a trademark as an investment in your brand's future, not just its present." Links Trademark Factory https://smartrealestatecoach.com/trademarkfactory Real Estate On Your Terms and Deal Structure Overtime https://wickedsmartbooks.com/podcast FREE Master's Class https://wickedsmartacademy.com/mastersclass FREE Strategy Session with Chris Pre https://smartrealestatecoach.com/chrisprecall FREE Workshop https://smartrealestatecoach.com/pcws QLS Homestudy Course https://wickedsmartacademy.com/course/qls-homestudy-4 Investor Resources https://smartrealestatecoach.com/resources 3 Paydays Apprentice https://smartrealestatecoach.com/apprentice-pod In the Trenches Bootcamp https://smartrealestatecoach.com/ittb-pod REI Blackbook https://smartrealestatecoach.com/REIBB-DD

In this compelling episode of the Smart Real Estate Coach Podcast, you'll hear from Jamie Bateman, a seasoned mortgage note investor and host of the From Adversity to Abundance podcast. Jamie shares how he transitioned from being an Army officer and W-2 employee to becoming a full-time entrepreneur in the mortgage note investment space. He'll guide you through the nuances of active versus passive investing, explain why building relationships is crucial in this niche market, and offer tips on managing risk effectively. Whether you're a seasoned investor or just starting out in creative financing, this episode is packed with actionable advice and inspiring insights tailored for you. Key Talking Points of the Episode 00:00 Introduction 02:30 What Jamie is focused on today 03:10 The 3 pillars of note investing 05:04 Understanding active vs. passive mortgage note investing 06:32 How passive mortgage note investing works 08:20 Passive mortgage note investing returns 12:37 Lead sources for mortgage note investing 15:51 Labrador Lending mentorship program 17:43 Identifying your investing criteria for mortgage notes 21:46 The downsides or investing in mortgage notes 23:38 How to learn more about note investing from Jamie Quotables "It's not all rainbows and butterflies and unicorns, and maybe it's not for you." "Building that buy box is a critical piece for people because you need to be able to speak into the universe, this is what I'm looking for." "The inefficiencies are where opportunity lies." Links Labrador Lending https://labradorlending.com/ From Adversity to Abundance https://adversity2abundance.com Real Estate On Your Terms and Deal Structure Overtime https://wickedsmartbooks.com/podcast FREE Master's Class https://wickedsmartacademy.com/mastersclass FREE Strategy Session with Chris Pre https://smartrealestatecoach.com/chrisprecall FREE Workshop https://smartrealestatecoach.com/pcws QLS Homestudy Course https://wickedsmartacademy.com/course/qls-homestudy-4 Investor Resources https://smartrealestatecoach.com/resources 3 Paydays Apprentice https://smartrealestatecoach.com/apprentice-pod In the Trenches Bootcamp https://smartrealestatecoach.com/ittb-pod REI Blackbook https://smartrealestatecoach.com/REIBB-DD

In this inspiring episode of Smart Real Estate Coach Podcast, we're sitting down again with Rick Abbiati, a certified coach and high-six member of the Wicked Smart community. Rick shares his incredible journey to achieving financial independence through creative real estate investing. With over $1 million in total three-payday profits and a thriving coaching practice, Rick reflects on the strategies, mindset, and discipline that helped him build a lucrative portfolio in under three years. Whether you're looking to transition into real estate or scale your existing business, this episode is packed with actionable insights and practical advice. Key Talking Points of the Episode 00:00 Introduction 01:55 Who is Rick Abbiati? 03:05 3 Paydays Apprentice Program 04:30 Rick's real estate portfolio since joining the Wicked Smart Community 08:13 What is wealth stacking? 10:22 How to balance growing your real estate portfolio while working a full-time job 11:58 An example of Rick's deals 15:03 The ROI from a community like Wicked Smart 16:22 In the Trenches Bootcamp Quotables "Patience and persistence are key—burning the candle at both ends for two years was worth the freedom I have now." "Wealth stacking isn't just about profits—it's about creating a long-term strategy that builds financial security." "Investing in yourself and joining a community like Wicked Smart is the best ROI you'll ever make." Links Ep 371 Kickstarting Your Career in Creative Real Estate, with Rick Abbiati https://smartrealestatecoach.com/podcasts/rick-abbiati/ Real Estate On Your Terms and Deal Structure Overtime https://wickedsmartbooks.com/podcast FREE Master's Class https://wickedsmartacademy.com/mastersclass FREE Strategy Session with Chris Pre https://smartrealestatecoach.com/chrisprecall FREE Workshop https://smartrealestatecoach.com/pcws QLS Homestudy Course https://wickedsmartacademy.com/course/qls-homestudy-4 Investor Resources https://smartrealestatecoach.com/resources 3 Paydays Apprentice https://smartrealestatecoach.com/apprentice-pod In the Trenches Bootcamp https://smartrealestatecoach.com/ittb-pod REI Blackbook https://smartrealestatecoach.com/REIBB-DD

In this impactful episode of the Smart Real Estate Coach Podcast, we welcome Adam Carroll, a financial literacy advocate and the creator of the Shred Method back to the show. Adam shares his expertise on reshaping financial habits, building wealth, and achieving debt freedom through a systematic cash flow approach. We discuss the pitfalls of traditional money management, the importance of rethinking your relationship with debt, and how the Shred Method can save you tens of thousands of dollars in interest. This episode is packed with real-world success stories and actionable insights, so it's a must-listen if you're ready to take control of your finances and build lasting wealth. Key Talking Points of the Episode 00:00 Introduction 02:29 What is the Shred Method? 03:40 Shocking statistics: Over 60% of Americans spend more than they earn 05:06 Unlearning old financial habits to build newer, healthier ones 07:03 The core principles of the Shred Method 13:50 How the Shred Method can change your life 19:41 Strategies to accelerate mortgage payoffs and minimize interest expenses 23:30 How to prepare yourself for the new year financially 25:27 How HELOCs can help with finances regardless of interest rates 27:40 The Savings Analysis Tool 29:30 How to plan your finances for the next 10 years 31:53 What you should focus on this year Quotables "It's not about earning more; it's about keeping and growing what you already have." "Mindset is the foundation of your financial success—it dictates every decision you make with money." "Debt freedom isn't just possible; it's achievable with the right system and discipline." Links Ep 418 - Living Free Through Income Efficiency, with Adam Carroll https://smartrealestatecoach.com/podcasts/adam-carroll-3/ Ep 287 - Money Beliefs, with Adam Carroll https://smartrealestatecoach.com/podcasts/adam-carroll-2/ Savings Analysis Tool https://smartrealestatecoach.com/shred Real Estate On Your Terms and Deal Structure Overtime https://wickedsmartbooks.com/podcast FREE Master's Class https://wickedsmartacademy.com/mastersclass FREE Strategy Session with Chris Pre https://smartrealestatecoach.com/chrisprecall FREE Workshop https://smartrealestatecoach.com/pcws QLS Homestudy Course https://wickedsmartacademy.com/course/qls-homestudy-4 Investor Resources https://smartrealestatecoach.com/resources 3 Paydays Apprentice https://smartrealestatecoach.com/apprentice-pod In the Trenches Bootcamp https://smartrealestatecoach.com/ittb-pod REI Blackbook https://smartrealestatecoach.com/REIBB-DD

In this solo episode of the Smart Real Estate Coach Podcast, I'm kicking off the new year with actionable advice to help you set yourself up for success in 2025. I'll walk you through the importance of conducting a "gut check" to evaluate where you are versus where you want to be, share insights on return on investment (ROI) and return on experience (ROE), and explain why creative real estate is your best strategy in today's uncertain market. I'll also highlight exciting opportunities like the Apprentice Program and In the Trenches Bootcamp, designed to fast-track your growth in the real estate investing world. Whether you're a seasoned investor or just getting started, this episode is packed with insights to help you crush your goals this year. Key Talking Points of the Episode 00:00 Introduction 01:35 Gut check: Are you where you thought you'd be? 03:24 Understanding return on investment (ROI) versus return on expense 06:25 The value of the three-payday system: metrics and potential earnings 14:17 Return on experience (ROE) and the power of immersive learning 18:02 The importance of creative real estate in a shifting market 21:04 The Coming Wave 22:00 Visualizing your ideal December 2025 Quotables "Your income will not exceed your skill set, mindset, and systems." "Stop worrying about the cost; focus on the potential return and how to get there." "If you're not improving daily, your income will plateau—invest in yourself." Links Real Estate On Your Terms and Deal Structure Overtime https://wickedsmartbooks.com/podcast FREE Master's Class https://wickedsmartacademy.com/mastersclass FREE Strategy Session with Chris Pre https://smartrealestatecoach.com/chrisprecall FREE Workshop https://smartrealestatecoach.com/pcws QLS Homestudy Course https://wickedsmartacademy.com/course/qls-homestudy-4 Investor Resources https://smartrealestatecoach.com/resources 3 Paydays Apprentice https://smartrealestatecoach.com/apprentice-pod In the Trenches Bootcamp https://smartrealestatecoach.com/ittb-pod REI Blackbook https://smartrealestatecoach.com/REIBB-DD The Coming Wave https://the-coming-wave.com/ Chris Prefontaine chris@smartrealestatecoach.com

In this special year-end episode of the Smart Real Estate Coach Podcast, hosts Chris Prefontaine and Zach Beach take a reflective, unscripted look back at 2024, exploring the key trends and shifts in the real estate market. They discuss how high interest rates have shaped the industry, the surge in creative financing, and the importance of adaptability in an ever-changing economic landscape. Chris and Zach also introduce innovative programs like the Apprentice Program and In the Trenches Bootcamp, designed to help real estate investors navigate uncertainty and accelerate their success in 2025. Packed with actionable insights, inspiring community stories, and practical strategies, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to make the most of creative financing opportunities. Key Talking Points of the Episode 00:00 Introduction 01:03 How rising interest rates have fueled the growth of creative financing 04:09 Why creative financing is key in today's housing market 07:08 How uncertainty has caused a surge in creative financing deals 09:15 Launching the Apprentice Program for new real estate investors 12:47 Getting involved through The In the Trenches Bootcamp 20:30 In the Trenches Bootcamp dates for 2025 22:12 Key wins from 2024: Over 50 deals closed and $2 million generated in three-payday profits 30:41 Important metrics of 2024: How the 3-Paydays work 35:10 How you can get involved in the Wicked Smart Community in 2025 Quotables "Creative financing isn't just a strategy; it's a lifeline for people navigating today's high-interest-rate market." "This business isn't about complicated strategies; it's about dedication, people, and solving problems consistently." "Every decision you make today is a building block for where you'll be in 2025—start now and set the stage for success." Links Real Estate On Your Terms and Deal Structure Overtime https://wickedsmartbooks.com/podcast FREE Master's Class https://wickedsmartacademy.com/mastersclass FREE Strategy Session with Chris Pre https://smartrealestatecoach.com/chrisprecall FREE Workshop https://smartrealestatecoach.com/pcws QLS Homestudy Course https://wickedsmartacademy.com/course/qls-homestudy-4 Investor Resources https://smartrealestatecoach.com/resources 3 Paydays Apprentice https://smartrealestatecoach.com/apprentice-pod In the Trenches Bootcamp https://smartrealestatecoach.com/ittb-pod REI Blackbook https://smartrealestatecoach.com/REIBB-DD