

INVEST2FI
Craig Curelop aka The FI Guy
Real estate is undoubtedly one of the most profitable and thriving industries out there - especially if you are looking to achieve financial independence! It offers a wide variety of ways to invest actively and passively. If you are new to real estate investing and FI, and seek the proper guidance from experts, you are in the right place. Welcome to Invest2FI, hosted by Craig Curelop. In this series, we talk with real-life house hackers, real estate (and other!) investors and real people on a mission to become financially independent. Not everybody enjoys working a 9-5 job. No one wants to be stuck in analysis-paralysis feeling unsure how to finally jump into real estate. We teach you how to exit the rat race and work on living the life you want. This is the show for beginners and learners who want to achieve financial freedom through real estate. Whether you want to increase your savings, optimize your expenses, or build a prospering income source, we have helpful solutions. We talk all the tips and tricks for making your very first purchase. We discuss how you can build your skills on this initial transaction to close better deals in the future. This is also a show for techie types who are passionate about crunching numbers and the digital side of operating business and investments. If you are drawn to financial independence, we'll enlighten you with grounded, practical strategies for achieving real estate success. Each of our guests offers creative and practical strategies to begin a real estate investing career. They break down every single investing tactic you can emulate yourself. Receive essential lessons from their experiences as they open up about their real estate journey. They reflect on the moments when they got lucky or proved their intelligence and offer their fair share of “horror” stories too. Guests embrace their vulnerabilities and speak about challenges and failures, explaining how to overcome or avoid them. There is no better host for this podcast that Craig Curelop. His is a living testaments of what you should aspire to be in this industry. Achieving financial independence in his twenties, he take pride in his first-hand experiences through every facet of real estate. Craig specializes in a unique style of real estate investing called house hacking. He literally wrote the book on it: The House Hacking Strategy. This method purchases multi-unit properties and rents them out by portion. Craig is also the lead broker of The FI Team. If you are stuck in an unfulfilling corporate job, let this show bring you far more rewarding opportunities. Craig is your guide to making a major career shift and becoming part of the exciting world of real estate. Do not feel discouraged by the towering paperwork and complex principles. Equip yourself with the right knowledge and strategies, and you are good to go! Whether you are starting an active or passive venture, the key in real estate is proper training and a constant desire for growth. Invest2FI fortifies your confidence and provides you with a smooth, clear path to success. Listen to the podcast today!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 26, 2024 • 17min
Invest2Friday: 11 Things To Do Before You're 22 To Be A Millionaire at 30
Today's episode of Invest2Friday was inspired by a group of guys Craig met at a Meetup last month and is dedicated to all those 22 year olds out there wondering what they can do today to ensure to financial freedom and wealth in the future. This list is high level, but tune in to hear Craig's advice on how to bring these things to life:1. Get a high paying W2 job2. Start House Hacking3. Don't worry about dating4. Drift away from friendships that don't lift you up5. Bike to work 6. Seek a higher power7. Get a side hustle8. Educate yourself 9. Move out of your parent's basement 10. Build your investor team 11. Do the things no one else is willing to doHave a question on how to make any of these happen? Hit Craig up on IG @thefiguy and if you liked this episode - leave us a rating or review!

Jan 24, 2024 • 50min
Episode 172 - Qutting A W-2 Job At 26 And Becoming A Millionaire At 29 With David Lecko
Quitting the rat race in your 20s might sound crazy for some, but our guest today defied the impossible and proved that it’s possible to become financially free before 30! Join us for a jampacked episode with David Lecko, CEO of DealMachine and renowned investor in single-family long-term rentals. David's entrepreneurial venture began in 2017 when he recognized the potential of finding off-market deals and sending offers through direct mail. Overcome with the challenges of manual tracking, he created the DealMachine app, which allows investors to find off-market leads and streamline the marketing process easily. Today, DealMachine has become a must-try app for serious investors and has facilitated over 10,000 successful deals across all 50 states. Tune in to learn how David successfully transitioned from a W2 job to a full-time commitment to real estate and how it took him three years to achieve financial freedom. We talk about the secrets behind his profitable BRRRR (Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, Repeat) deals, the key to managing hot leads, and learning how to optimize your team as a business owner and investor. Whether you are a seasoned real estate professional or a newcomer, David Lecko's expertise makes this episode a must-listen for anyone looking for real-life success in real estate investing. PODCAST HIGHLIGHTS:[3:44] David’s First Real Estate Deal [8:24] On Choosing Ideal Roommates [10:22] Transitioning From a W2 to Real Estate [16:40] Unpacking David’s Profitable BRRRR Deals [21:40] The Secret Sauce to Finding Good Deals in 2024 [26:00] On Budgeting for Direct Marketing [26:30] Why Deal Machine Is a Gamechanger for Real Estate [33:30] A Glimpse Into David’s Future Plans [38:35] Best Piece of Advice [43:00] The Problem With Diving Into Multiple Side Hustles HOSTS Craig Curelop 📸 IG: https://www.instagram.com/thefiguy 📘 Book: https://store.biggerpockets.com/products/the-house-hacking-strategy 🏘️ Buy Real Estate: https://bit.ly/3V3QDze Ali Garced 📸 IG: https://www.instagram.com/ali_the_agent/ 📱Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aligarced 💼 Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandragarced/ 🖥 Website: https://www.garcedrealty.com/ GUEST 📸 IG: https://www.instagram.com/dlecko/ 💼 Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidlecko/ 💻 Website: https://www.dealmachine.com/ 🎧 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DavidLecko 🎙️Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/0hn1ZGx59ETNoOsbXWeMoe 📱Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/david.lecko/ 🗣 Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@davidlecko

Jan 19, 2024 • 15min
Invest2Friday: Already Tossed Out Your New Year's Resolutions?
Ali breaks down why New Year's Resolutions don't work, but quarterly check-ins with your team - or yourself - could be the ticket to achieve at a higher level. If you want more guidance on how to plan out your year and goals like Ali, hit her up on IG @ali_the_agent and she'll share the trackers she uses to stay on track!

Jan 17, 2024 • 59min
Episode 171 - Watch Your Real Estate Profits Skyrocket Through Wholesaling and Strategic Networking With Kelly Clark
Start your real estate journey intensely with our guest today, Kelly Clark, co-owner of Rockstar Real Estate LLC and passionate house hacker and investor. After deciding to do a 180-degree career shift into real estate, Kelly shares with us today the steps she took to fast-track her journey learning about strategic investing and property management. By hosting local meetups, building a solid network, and learning from experienced mentors, our guest today proves the tried-and-tested advice that it’s very much possible to succeed in real estate even when starting from zero knowledge and no connections! Join us as Kelly discusses tapping into the wholesale market through MLS and partnering with more experienced investors to capitalize on these leads. We also talk about unique ways to solidify your financial strategy and why claiming your identity as an investor can be a game-changer. In just a few short years, Kelly has amassed diverse experiences, delving into property management, flipping, and wholesaling different types of homes. Her journey shows there is always time to pivot careers and gain financial freedom later in life. Learn exactly how you can do it in today’s jam-packed episode! PODCAST HIGHLIGHTS:[5:30] Starting With Zero Real Estate Knowledge [8:00] The Secret to Building a Real Estate Network [14:10] Kelly’s First Deal [16:36] Diving Into Realistic Real Estate Costs [27:35] A Glimpse Into Kelly’s Successful Portfolio [28:55] On House Hacking a Fourplex [32:20] Must-Know Investing Hack: Opening a Trust [39:00] Why You Should Be Represented [41:10] Unpacking Essentials of Kelly’s Rehab [46:53] Tapping into the Advantages of a HELOC [51:10] Nuggets of Wisdom for Serious Investors HOSTS Craig Curelop 📸 IG: https://www.instagram.com/thefiguy 📘 Book: https://store.biggerpockets.com/products/the-house-hacking-strategy 🏘️ Buy Real Estate: https://bit.ly/3V3QDze Ali Garced 📸 IG: https://www.instagram.com/ali_the_agent/ 📱Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aligarced 💼 Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandragarced/ 🖥 Website: https://www.garcedrealty.com/ GUEST Kelly Clark from Rockstar Real Estate LLC 💼 Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellyclarkevents/ 💻 Website: https://www.therockstarllc.com/ 📸 IG: https://www.instagram.com/rockstar_real_estate_llc/ 📱Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theRockstarLLC

Jan 12, 2024 • 17min
Invest2Friday: A Deep Dive into Craig's First House Hack Ever
Today's episode might be the glimpse into your future. Flash back 6.5 years ago to when Craig purchased his first house hack in Denver.... Do any of the points below resonate with you? 1. Learned about house hacking through BiggerPockets, motivated by the idea!2. Nervous it was the top of the market when he wanted to buy3. Had to revision what his vision of his first property would be4. Paid $100K more than his neighbor did 2 years prior, feared he got a horrible deal 5. Finally got the deal, but had rough co-tenantsShoot @thefiguy a comment and let him know where you are in your house hacking journey.

Jan 10, 2024 • 58min
Episode 170 - Take Risks When Your Young With Tanner Pile
In this episode, we’re diving into real estate with Tanner Pile, a rising real estate agent, investor, and house hacker. Tune in as our guest shares his real estate journey, from navigating his first-ever deal to learning how to identify properties with the most potential. We explore the complexities of pursuing owner financing, borrowing hard money, and taking calculated risks in real estate. Tanner is living proof that it’s never too early to start learning about real estate, as he began taking masterclasses and gaining mentorship during his final semesters in college. This episode delves into his experience of becoming a real estate agent and achieving passive income at 25. He has since made it his mission to empower others to pursue long-term wealth and financial freedom through strategic real estate investments. So, if you want to start investing and growing your investment portfolio in 2024, don’t miss out on this insightful episode on achieving real estate success and financial freedom today! PODCAST HIGHLIGHTS: [5:40] Learning About Financial Independence [8:35] Navigating His First Real Estate Deal [14:25] Narrowing Down Properties in New Areas [17:45] Transitioning From Being a W2 Agent to Full Commission [21:40] On Bringing in Family Into the Real Estate Industry [24:05] A Glimpse Into Becoming a Real Estate Agent [30:25] Dos and Donts for Allowing Pets in Airbnbs [3400] Unpacking Owner Financing [44:48] Tanner’s Passive Income at 25 Years Old [48:25] Words of Wisdom for Every Investor HOSTS Craig Curelop 📸 IG: https://www.instagram.com/thefiguy 📘 Book: https://store.biggerpockets.com/products/the-house-hacking-strategy 🏘️ Buy Real Estate: https://bit.ly/3V3QDze Ali Garced 📸 IG: https://www.instagram.com/ali_the_agent/ 📱Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aligarced 💼 Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandragarced/ 🖥 Website: https://www.garcedrealty.com/ GUEST Tanner Pile 📸 IG: https://www.instagram.com/tanner_pileuprealestate/ 💼 Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tanner-pile/ 💻 Website: https://www.pileuprealestate.com/

Jan 5, 2024 • 13min
Invest2Friday: 30K Foot View of Successful Systems to Rock Your Real Estate Biz
Agents, or wanna be agents, this one is for you! In this episode of Invest2Friday Ali runs through all her systems and processes that have helped to grow her real estate business. These systems have allowed Ali to retire from the Air Force and close 85+ deals in the last 2.5 years. She doesn't just talk about what she uses for buyers, sellers and referrals, but she's offering up her check lists to you! Shoot her a DM on IG @ali_the_agent OR text Checklist to 520-341-2552.

Jan 3, 2024 • 1h 2min
Episode 169 - Tapping Into Your Inner Creativity for House Hacking and Real Estate Property Hunting With Tori Borges
In this episode, Tori Borges shares how joining the world of real estate has never been this enticing. Since Tori’s venture into real estate in 2017, she has amassed an impressive portfolio through self-teaching and learning from mentors in the field. Join us for an engaging episode with Tori as she gives listeners a glimpse into her unique perspectives and investing mindsets that have brought her financial independence in just a few years! This episode’s discussion revolves around the power of appreciation in real estate investments, valuable insights into cultivating a successful portfolio, and tips and tricks for sharing your home on Airbnb. We also discuss the crucial question of knowing when it's the right time to sell a property. Tori also shares her transformative journey of becoming a real estate agent, offering a unique perspective on navigating this dynamic field. Tune in to hear her top three tips for real estate investors, providing creative insights for those seeking innovative approaches. Throughout the episode, Tori's passion for imparting real estate wisdom shines through, making this episode a valuable resource for aspiring and seasoned investors. PODCAST HIGHLIGHTS: [3:05] Introducing Tori Borges [4:40] Join the Invest2FI House Hacking Intensive [7:10] Growing Up With a Real Estate Background[10:00] How Active Duty Plays a Significant Role in Real Estate [15:35] Tori’s First Deal [20:25] The Power of Appreciation [23:05] Sharing Your Home on Airbnb [27:40] How Do You Know When It’s Time to Sell [29:20] On 1031 Exchange [39:50] On Becoming a Real Estate Agent [42:00] Top 3 Creative Tips for Real Estate Investors [49:20] Must-Hear Advice for All InvestorsHOSTS Craig Curelop 📸 IG: https://www.instagram.com/thefiguy 📘 Book: https://store.biggerpockets.com/products/the-house-hacking-strategy 🏘️ Buy Real Estate: https://bit.ly/3V3QDze Ali Garced 📸 IG: https://www.instagram.com/ali_the_agent/ 📱Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aligarced 💼 Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandragarced/ 🖥 Website: https://www.garcedrealty.com/ GUEST 📸 IG: https://www.instagram.com/realtori_rose/ 💼 Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tori-borges-a26108256/

Dec 29, 2023 • 21min
Invest2Friday:Why @thefiguy Hates New Year's Resolutions
Tune in to Inves2Friday to ensure a productive holiday season. In this episode Craig will walk you through why goal setting is more effective than New Year's resolutions.Craig will also share the only 2 New Year's Resolutions he has ever set, tune in to find out if he kept them.Happy New Year let's make it the best one yet!

Dec 27, 2023 • 53min
Episode 168 - What Happened!?! 2023 Year in Review with Craig & Ali Garced
As 2023 approaches, we’re taking stock of the year that has passed and what’s in store for the future. Join us as Craig and Ali sit down for an honest discussion on this year’s highs, lows, and realizations. Tune in for Ali’s thoughts on becoming a full-time real estate agent and finding out what excites her in real estate investing. Learn how to regain control of your time through the unlimited potential of AI and optimizing your teams and systems. Craig also shares his realizations about downsizing his team while delivering the highest impact through the FI Team. Amidst the hustle and bustle of the last year, Craig and Ali discuss juggling priorities outside of work, such as fitness, health, faith, and relationships. Don’t miss out as we dig into the true meaning of success and share insights learned from the past year that can reshape your approach to achieving financial independence. PODCAST HIGHLIGHTS:[2:15] Ali’s 2023 Investing Story [8:05] Dealing With Imposter Syndrome as a Real Estate Agent [12:50] Take Back Your Time With the Power of AI [20:50] On Staying on Top of Health and Other Life Goals [24:20] Craig’s 2023 Business Challenges [30:25] Lessons Learned in 2023 [34:20] The Best Way to Approach Leads [35:50] Investing and Personal Goals for 2024 [38:05] Unveiling Craig’s Latest Venture [39:35] Craig’s Experiences With Faith HOSTS Craig Curelop 📸 IG: https://www.instagram.com/thefiguy 📘 Book: https://store.biggerpockets.com/products/the-house-hacking-strategy 🏘️ Buy Real Estate: https://bit.ly/3V3QDze 📸 Grace’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/gracitude/ Ali Garced 📸 IG: https://www.instagram.com/ali_the_agent/ 📱Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aligarced 💼 Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandragarced/ 🖥 Website: https://www.garcedrealty.com/