On this episode of Next Level CRE, Matt Faircloth interviews Ben Lapidus, a seasoned real estate investor and innovator behind a unique new concept called Playground. They dive into Ben’s journey from self-storage investments to pioneering the emerging asset class of garage condos—flexible, purpose-built spaces that can serve as luxury storage, personal gyms, hobby studios, or workspaces. Ben explains how Playground caters to affluent buyers looking to own, not rent, and discusses why selling individual units instead of leasing offers better returns and faster capital recycling. They also unpack zoning challenges, community-building strategies, and the massive untapped market potential across the U.S.Ben Lapidus CEO/Partner Based in: Littleton, CO Say hi to them at playground.properties besteverconference.com playground.investnext.com linkedin.com/blapidus benlapidus.com Capital Gains Tax Solutionsvikingcapllc.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of the Best Ever CRE Show, Pascal Wagner interviews Andrew Cushman, founder of Vantage Point Acquisitions. Andrew shares his journey from chemical engineer to successful multifamily investor, highlighting how he transitioned from flipping homes to acquiring nearly 3,000 multifamily units across the Southeast. He breaks down his firm's buy box strategy, emphasizing the importance of management value-add, demographic targeting, and property size for operational efficiency. The conversation also explores how LPs can vet operators more effectively, the significance of operator SOPs, and a deep dive into the current trend of preferred equity raises and their implications for passive investors.Andrew Cushman Founder/Principal Based in: Southern California Say hi to them at www.vpacq.com www.linkedin.com/in/andrewcushmanvpa Capital Gains Tax Solutionsvikingcapllc.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Christopher Long, CEO of Long Yards, details his journey in transforming a contractor's solution into a $12 million industrial outdoor storage business. He discusses innovative land acquisition strategies and the benefits of SBA financing for development. The conversation highlights the shift from traditional franchising to flexible partnerships, emphasizing the importance of adaptability in this niche. Listeners discover modern storage solutions designed for contractors and the extensive market potential across North America.

Brent Barcus, Managing Partner at I-65 Capital in Nashville, shares his fascinating journey from the entertainment industry to multifamily real estate. He details his process for vetting sponsors and the lessons learned from an early challenging deal in Georgia. Brent highlights promising market trends in Nashville, showcasing a new 232-unit acquisition focused on value-add plays. He also discusses the significance of strategic partnerships and navigating property management challenges in smaller markets, offering a deep dive into the dynamics of the multifamily sector.

In this conversation, Sam Giordano, a gastroenterologist turned real estate investor and co-founder of PassiveAdvantage.com, shares his unique path into real estate syndications. He reveals how his AI-driven platform helps high-income professionals navigate passive investments. Topics include the critical role of sponsor evaluation, adapting to market challenges like rising interest rates, and the benefits of transparency in connecting investors with sponsors. Sam also discusses the importance of diversification and future opportunities in multifamily real estate.

John Silvia, former chief economist of Wells Fargo and the U.S. Banking Committee, shares his insights on economic uncertainty and inflation risks. He addresses concerns like slowing consumer spending and potential recession indicators. Silvia discusses the implications of new tariffs on inflation and consumer confidence, while predicting possible rate cuts from the Federal Reserve. He highlights investment opportunities in commercial real estate, painting a cautiously optimistic picture for the next few years amidst the economic challenges.

Christion Sadler, CEO of PreIShare, discusses how his platform is transforming liquidity for LP investors in real estate syndications. He shares insights on the evolving needs of LPs, the importance of mentorship, and the intricacies of investment buyouts. Christion highlights the critical nature of trust in investor-sponsor relationships and explores strategies for navigating capital gains taxes. He also announces an upcoming Capital Raise Forum event, bringing together real estate enthusiasts to foster community and connections.

Liz Faircloth, co-founder of DeRosa Group and The Real Estate InvestHer, dives into the world of creative partnerships and community in real estate. She discusses the striking differences in investor mindsets today and the importance of conservative underwriting. Liz highlights how women thrive by forming strong partnerships and optimizing operations. She also shares valuable strategies for couples investing together, like quarterly retreats and feedback exercises. Plus, there's exciting news about upcoming conferences empowering women in the industry!

Bethany LeFlam, a seasoned SEC attorney turned active hotel investor, shares her expertise in structuring real estate syndications. She discusses vital LP protections and red flags in PPMs that investors should be aware of. Bethany's transition from passive investing to focusing on boutique hotels highlights the importance of operator vetting and effective communication. She also explores legal aspects of capital raising, the implications of GPs co-investing, and her innovative concept of 'Other People's Everything' for wealth creation.

Tripp Greene, founder of Trinity Capital CRE and Coast to Coast CRE Academy, is an expert on capital raising and mentoring new investors. He shares insights on the multifamily sector's challenges, discussing the risks of over-leveraged operators and broken GP structures. Tripp emphasizes the importance of ethical syndication and thorough risk assessment for newcomers. He also introduces his Academy’s hands-on mentorship approach, encouraging collaboration for aspiring investors to tackle complexities in the market, including unique ventures like car washes.