The Best Ever CRE Show

Today, we’re continuing our countdown to the new year by looking back at some of the best episodes from the Best Ever Show in 2023. We’ve pulled the best clips from some of this year’s best episodes that featured the best self-storage investing advice ever. In this episode, we’ll hear from Connor Gross, Faraz Hemani, Travis Baucom, AJ Osborne, and the Sultan of Storage himself, Baird Kleinsmith. You can find links to each of their episodes in the show notes. Connor discussed why he chose self-storage over other asset classes, including how he 3X’d the NOI on his very first deal. Meanwhile, Faraz provides tips on how to find — and talk to — the right sellers in a competitive market, Travis takes us through his due diligence process, and AJ explains his firm’s buying strategy in 2023, including how he accounts for the threat of new construction disrupting the supply and demand balance in a particular market. Baird wraps it up by explaining why he targets “crappy” self-storage facilities, his secrets to quickly scaling to eight facilities, and the hardest lessons he’s learned along the way.   You can listen to the full episodes below.​​ JF3042: Succeeding in Self-Storage as First-Time Operators ft. Connor Gross JF3250: Faraz Hemani — 3-Step Formula for Succeeding in Self-Storage, Why Flex Industrial Is the Best-Kept Secret in Real Estate, and How to Compete in a Crowded Self-Storage Industry JF3130: 1,800 Self-Storage Units in 18 Months ft. Travis Baucom JF3230: How to Build a Self-Storage Empire ft. AJ Osborne JF3106: Becoming the Sultan of Storage ft. Baird Kleinsmith   Sponsors BAM Capital   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, we’re going to start counting down to the new year by looking back at some of the best episodes from the Best Ever Show in 2023. So what we’ve done — and what we’ll do over the next five days heading into 2024 — is pull some of our favorite Best Ever segments from shows throughout the year so you can get educated and inspired as we move into the new year. In this episode, we’ll focus on multifamily, pulling clips from episodes with Vikram Raya, Patrick Grimes, Jay Balekar, and the king of creative finance, Pace Morby. Vikram discusses how he went from Zero to $700M AUM in about eight years, including acquiring his first property, a 118-unit deal on a C-class property outside of Atlanta that he and his partners only got the inside track on because the lead buyer backed out after there was a murder on the property. Meanwhile, Patrick explains some of the biggest lessons he learned from the recent economic downturn, Jay provides his tips on working with third-party property management companies, and Pace explains the Zero down, 4% seller finance deal he did that became the standard for his multifamily deals.   You can listen to the full episodes below.​​ JF3254: Vikram Raya — Making the Jump From Medicine to Real Estate, 6 of the Worst Mistakes Syndicators Make, and Understanding the Power of Marketing and Branding JF3225: Building a $650 Million Multifamily Portfolio After Losing It All in 2008 ft. Patrick Grimes JF3343: Jay Balekar — Strategies for Growing 400+ Units in Two Years JF3118: 1,500 Doors in One Year with Creative Financing ft. Pace Morby   Sponsors BAM Capital   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Wil Glafenhein, Owner of Honors Real Estate Services, dives into his strategies for success in building an $85 million portfolio. He shares tips for bringing in direct to seller leads and stresses the need for consistency and patience in today’s market where most deals just aren’t penciling. Key Takeaways: Lead Generation Strategies: Wil discusses various lead generation strategies, including targeting properties based on ownership type (individual vs. LLC) and understanding the importance of allocating sufficient resources to marketing campaigns. He emphasizes the need for patience and consistency in generating leads, especially in competitive markets. Mindset and Purpose: Beyond profit, Wil emphasizes the importance of mindset and purpose in the commercial real estate business. He recommends maintaining clarity on your goals and values while fostering a positive mindset. Effective Communication and Planning: Wil stresses the significance of clear communication and strategic planning when partnering with others. Having contingency plans and outlining expectations upfront can prevent potential conflicts and ensure smooth operations over the long term. Wil Glafenhein | Real Estate Background Owner of Honors Real Estate Services Portfolio: $85 million AUM: apartments, office, assisted living  Based in: Knoxville, TN Say hi to him at:  HonorsProperties.com Best Ever Book: The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis Greatest Lesson: Disciplined effort with a clear vision is what is needed to grow with consistency.   Sponsors BAM Capital Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jason Yarusi, Owner of Yarusi Holdings, shares the investing wisdom he’s earned from building a portfolio of over 2,300 multifamily units. He discusses the value in developing a long-term strategy and sticking to it despite economic conditions, investing in tertiary markets outside the ebbs and flows of major metros, and why the Fed’s recent announcement about potential interest rate cuts was so surprising. Key Takeaways: Adapting to Market Uncertainty: Jason emphasizes the importance of having a flexible business plan that can adapt to market fluctuations. He discusses how Yarusi Holdings strategically navigates through changing economic conditions and maintains a focus on long-term investment goals. Investor Education and Strategy Alignment: Jason suggests educating investors about the market and helping them understand how specific opportunities fit into their portfolios. Having a clear strategy and a diversified approach can mitigate risks in uncertain times. The Impact of Interest Rates and Market Sentiment: The conversation touches on the surprising announcement of potential interest rate cuts by the Fed. Jason and Ash discuss the significance of market sentiment and its influence on investor decisions. Understanding the broader economic context is crucial for making informed investment choices. Jason Yarusi | Real Estate Background Owner and Managing Partner of Yarusi Holdings Portfolio: 2,300 units Based in: Murfreesboro, TN Say hi to him at:  Instagram Best Ever Book: How to Master a Fit and Rich Life in 15 Days by Jason Yarusi Greatest Lesson: Develop a long-term strategy, and stick to it.   Check out Jason’s previous episode: 2877 - Producing Massive Results in an Unpredictable Economic Climate Sponsors BAM Capital Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mauricio Rauld, SEC Attorney with over 25 years of experience in real estate syndication law, shares what syndicators need to know to avoid SEC violations. He highlights some of those most common mistakes he sees syndicators making, why capital raisers need to speak with an SEC attorney, and the impact the Corporate Transparency Act will have on investors. Key Takeaways: Building Investor Relationships: Mauricio emphasizes the importance of quality interactions over time in order to protect yourself against relationship-based SEC violations. He clarifies that the SEC doesn't have a specific timeframe but looks for the depth of the relationship. A three-day field trip with meaningful conversations can be more effective in establishing a substantial relationship than a year of one-sided communication through newsletters or social media. Corporate Transparency Act (CTA): Mauricio highlights the upcoming CTA, set to take effect in 2024. This act requires individuals with ownership or control of entities to provide personal information, including home addresses and driver's license details, to combat money laundering and tax evasion. Failure to comply with the CTA can result in substantial penalties, making it crucial for investors to stay informed and ensure compliance. Common SEC Pitfalls: Mauricio highlights the three most common violations syndicators commit, which include not realizing they are selling a security, getting compensated to raise capital for sponsors, and promoting a deal on social media. Mauricio Rauld | Real Estate Background Founder of Premier Law Group, SEC Attorney Portfolio: LP in syndication deals Based in: Macomb, MI Say hi to him at:  LinkedIn Drunk Real Estate Podcast  Best Ever Book: Buy Back Your Time by Dan Martell Greatest Lesson: Trust, but verify. You can never go wrong doing proper due diligence to protect yourself in any deal.   Sponsors BAM Capital Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we sit down with Matt Drouin, the managing partner at Oak Grove Companies. With 17 years of experience and a portfolio spanning 176 units and over 500,000 square feet of commercial real estate space, Matt's journey from residential sales to multifamily investments and ultimately, to thriving in the evolving office space sector, offers valuable lessons for both seasoned and aspiring real estate investors. Key Takeaways: Redefining Office Space: Matt's success in downtown office spaces challenges conventional wisdom. He emphasizes that smaller, sub-3,000 square feet, well-located office units geared toward mom-and-pop businesses can be the secret to thriving in this sector. Understanding the specific needs of your market and potential conversion opportunities are crucial. Adaptability is Key: The discussion underscores the importance of adaptability in real estate investing. Matt's strategy revolves around finding deals that offer a plan B if the initial thesis doesn't pan out. Whether repositioning as an office building or converting to residential use, having multiple exit strategies can mitigate risks and enhance returns. Networking and Education: Matt's advice for investors centers on the significance of networking and continuous learning. He encourages real estate enthusiasts to surround themselves with experienced investors and become obsessed with their aspirations. Leveraging platforms like podcasts and actively participating in real estate investor associations can provide valuable insights and support. Matt Drouin | Real Estate Background Managing Partner At OakGrove Companies Portfolio: 70% multifamily, 30% retail, industrial and office Based in: Rochester, NY Say hi to him at:  Facebook LinkedIn Best Ever Book: The Snowball Warren Buffett Effect by Alice Schroeder Greatest Lesson: If you focus on long term stakeholder value, you'll generate higher returns for your investors.   Check out Matt’s previous episode: 2507 - Financial Freedom by Age 33   Sponsors BV Captial BAM Capital Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

George Roberts, data scientist and principal at Roberts Capital, shares his insights on how to get your foot in the door with a GP team, steps to becoming a thought leader, and why he thinks interest rates may fall sooner rather than later. Key Takeaways: Economic Insights and Challenges: George discusses the challenges posed by the ever-increasing national debt and its potential impact on interest rates and the economy. He emphasizes the importance of understanding historical data and market sentiment when making investment decisions. George highlights that success in commercial real estate requires a deep dive into market specifics, as real estate is hyper-local, and what works in one area may not work in another. Multifamily Investment Strategies: George's journey from single-family to multifamily investments underscores the value of partnerships and networking in the real estate industry. He explains the importance of driving for deals, being patient, and playing the long game in finding lucrative opportunities. George sheds light on the concept of "value over price," urging investors to focus on the fundamentals rather than simply chasing after deals. Navigating LinkedIn and Building Authentic Content: When discussing success on LinkedIn, George emphasizes the power of authenticity and storytelling. He suggests sharing your journey, including challenges and successes, to engage your audience and create relatable content. George encourages investors to use social media as a platform for education and connection, building relationships and trust within the industry. George Roberts | Real Estate Background Principal at Roberts Capital Portfolio: 310 units  One single family rental 3 single family homes in the process of construction Based in: Macomb, MI Say hi to him at:  Linktree Best Ever Book: How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie Greatest Lesson: Don't fall victim to FOMO and commit to a deal that doesn't truly make sense. A bad deal can hurt you more now than ever before.  Sponsors BV Captial BAM Capital Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Passive Investor Tips is a weekly series hosted by full-time passive investor and Best Ever Show host, Travis Watts. In each bite-sized episode, Travis breaks down passive investor topics, simplifying the philosophy and mindset while providing tactical, valuable information on how to be a passive investor. Value-add strategies are everywhere. You just have to know how and where to find them. In this episode, Travis shares his own personal stories of embracing a value-add mindset outside of real estate to negotiate great terms and turn a profit.   Sponsors BV Captial BAM Capital Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome the the Best Ever midweek news brief, a new series where we will highlight the top headlines CRE investors should be paying attention to this week, followed by a deep dive on a larger news topic or trend alongside a CRE expert.   Today’s Headlines: $4.5B Portfolio for Sale: Lennar has put a massive 11,000-unit multifamily portfolio up for sale. The portfolio is spread across 38 properties in 15 states and is valued at a staggering $4.5 billion. JLL has been tapped to manage the sale. Bye Bye, Boom: Warehouse construction starts have plunged 48%, the steepest drop since 2009, all while industrial real estate sales at large fell by 45% in Q3, prompting the Wall Street Journal to declare that the Great American Warehouse Building Boom is over. Retail’s Heating Up: Office real estate posted a third consecutive month of pricing gains while retail thrived, posting a fourth straight month of pricing gains and an average occupancy rate of nearly 86%, its highest since October 2022, according to Crexi data. Today’s Guest: Jarred Schenke is a veteran commercial real estate journalist and currently writes for Bisnow. Recently, he researched and wrote a piece about how when it comes to multifamily, renter application fraud has gained significant momentum in 2023, largely due to three key factors: The ease with which renters can forge documentation in the digital application process — or apply using a stolen identity altogether. The accessibility on social media (like TikTok, Twitter, Reddit, and more) to information on how to forge such documents (or, in some cases, the ability to purchase fully fraudulent document packages directly). Law enforcement’s inability (and, let’s be real, unwillingness) to do anything about it.   He joined our host, Paul Mueller, to discuss his piece, the biggest surprises from his research, the overall trend of renter fraud, and how social media is enabling the troubling trend.   Sponsors BV Captial BAM Capital   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we chat with Martin Grizzanti of Suplex Properties. Martin has over $20 million in AUM in the Rochester, New York area. Martin and Slocomb discuss their unique approaches to finding off-market deals, the power of partnerships, and the valuable lessons they've learned along the way in their investing journeys. Key Takeaways: Off-Market Opportunities: Marty and Slocomb emphasize the importance of creating your own market by actively seeking off-market deals. Their successful strategy involves cold calling, direct mail, and targeted marketing campaigns, which have proven to be effective in finding hidden opportunities. The Value of Partnerships: The podcast highlights the significance of choosing the right partners in commercial real estate ventures. Marty shares a valuable lesson about the importance of having candid conversations about roles and expectations within a partnership before diving into a deal, ensuring a smoother and more equitable collaboration. Continuous Learning: Whether it's exploring various asset classes or refining sales and marketing skills, they believe that continuous learning and adaptation are key to long-term success in the ever-evolving commercial real estate industry. Martin Grizzanti | Real Estate Background Suplex Properties, LLC Portfolio $20 million AUM - residential, multifamily, industrial, storage Based in: Rochestery, NY Say hi to him at:  Twitter https://www.youtube.com/@martygrizzanti1663 Best Ever Book: Never Split the Difference by Christopher Voss and Tahl Raz Greatest Lesson: You can’t fail if you don’t quit. Sponsors BV Captial BAM Capital Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices