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
Mar 19, 2025 • 1h 2min
Episode 232 - From Condemned Homes to Multi-Million Dollar Portfolio: How To Master the BRRRR Method with Ted Kaasch
What if you could turn $40,000 into a multi-million-dollar real estate empire? In this episode of Invest2FI, Craig Curelop is with Ted Kaasch, an Omaha-based investor and leader of one of the fastest-growing REIAs in the U.S. Ted shares how he transitioned from foundation sales to real estate, using the BRRRR (Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, Repeat) method to flip condemned properties into high-performing assets. He reveals how strategic networking, wholesaler connections, and REIA groups fueled his success—including turning an $11,000 condemned house into a cash-flowing short-term rental. Ted also discusses the future of real estate investing, his shift to self-storage, and the rising regulations affecting rental investors. Packed with actionable strategies, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to start, scale, or adapt in real estate. PODCAST HIGHLIGHTS:[03:13] How Ted transitioned from foundation sales to real estate investing. [07:04 ] The impact of learning construction on real estate deals. [12:22] How networking and wholesaling helped Ted grow his business. [18:43] Turning a $40K seed fund into a multi-million dollar portfolio. [24:30] Breaking down Ted’s perfect BRRRR deal on a condemned house. [31:16] Challenges of securing permits during the 2020 pandemic. [38:00] How Omaha’s market growth is attracting outside investors. [41:56] Why Ted is selling off rentals and shifting to self-storage investing. [45:20] The impact of rental regulations on landlords in Omaha. [50:42] How Ted built one of the fastest-growing REIA groups in the U.S. [54:36] Final thoughts on building a strong real estate network. HOST Craig Curelop 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefiguy 📘 Book: https://store.biggerpockets.com/products/the-house-hacking-strategy 🏘️ Buy Real Estate: https://bit.ly/3V3QDze GUEST Ted Kaasch 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kaaschmoney 📽️Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/reia-radio/id1582763673 🌐 Linked: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tedkaasch
Mar 12, 2025 • 1h
Episode 231 - Short-Term Rental Secrets: Key Steps to Excelling in the Market with Avery Carl
What does it take to succeed in the short-term rental market? In this episode, Craig speaks with Avery Carl, a leader in short-term rental real estate. Avery shares her journey from musician to real estate expert and discusses her proven strategies for building a thriving rental business. With over 225 properties in prime vacation destinations, she offers key insights into property selection, renovations, and scaling a rental portfolio. Learn how to choose the best markets, make smart property upgrades, and avoid common mistakes that can cost you. Whether you're just getting started or looking to grow your business, Avery’s knowledge will guide you every step of the way. PODCAST HIGHLIGHTS:[03:18] - Introduction to Avery Carl, short-term rental real estate expert. [04:10] - Avery shares her transition from musician to real estate. [08:30] - How to choose the best short-term rental markets. [12:45] - Why location is key for rental success. [15:00] - Avery’s first rental purchase and financial strategy. [18:05] - Scaling a short-term rental business with minimal risk. [22:10] - Red flags when selecting vacation rental properties. [26:50] - High-ROI renovation tips for beach and mountain rentals. [30:20] - Understanding guest experience for success. [35:45] - Scaling to 5,000 clients and $3.5B in deals. [45:00] - Building a brand in short-term rentals. [50:30] - Market trends and the future of short-term rentals. [55:00] - Final thoughts on growing a business by helping others. HOST Craig Curelop 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefiguy 📘 Book: https://store.biggerpockets.com/products/the-house-hacking-strategy 🏘️ Buy Real Estate: https://bit.ly/3V3QDze GUEST Avery Carl 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theaverycarl/ 📽️Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/theshorttermshop 🌐 Website: https://theshorttermshop.com/
Mar 5, 2025 • 43min
Episode 230 - How to Start Real Estate Investing in Your 20s – Courtney Frazee’s House Hacking Strategy
What if you could reach financial independence in your 20s? This week on Invest2FI, we welcome Courtney Frazee, a young and determined real estate investor from Grand Rapids, Michigan. Courtney started her journey at 20 years old, turning a rental dilemma into a profitable house-hacking strategy. She shares how she scaled from her first house hack to a thriving rental portfolio, all while living behind a curtain to maximize her investments. In this episode, Courtney opens about her unconventional path, the financial risks she took, and the lessons she learned about property management, tenant screening, and leveraging resources. Her story is a testament to financial resilience, strategic investing, and making sacrifices for long-term rewards. Courtney’s journey proves that financial independence is possible with determination, creativity, and the right strategy. Tune in to hear her firsthand experiences and gain insights into making real estate work for you! PODCAST HIGHLIGHTS:[02:19] Courtney’s unexpected start in real estate after a friend backed out. [05:07] Learning to house hack: renting out rooms while living behind a curtain. [10:22] Buying her first home and financing it with a low down payment. [12:48] How she handled tenant screening and lease agreements successfully. [16:02] Managing unexpected roommate challenges and ensuring rental income stability. [21:35] Transitioning to her second property and overcoming financing obstacles. [25:20] Key lessons learned from handling maintenance and property management. [28:45] Scaling her real estate portfolio and shifting her mindset for success. [30:58] The impact of rising interest rates and how it affected her strategy. [32:15] Moving from pure profitability to comfort while still house hacking. [33:52] Parting words of wisdom for the listeners. [34:31] Final hour discussion on lessons learned and next steps. [37:25] The importance of risk-taking and getting comfortable with the unknown. [39:08] Advice for new investors: Start now, stay consistent, and keep learning. HOST Craig Curelop 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefiguy 📘 Book: https://store.biggerpockets.com/products/the-house-hacking-strategy 🏘️ Buy Real Estate: https://bit.ly/3V3QDze GUEST Courtney Frazee 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/courtneyfrazee26/#
Feb 26, 2025 • 57min
Episode 229 - Building a Profitable Business Remotely: Real Estate, Virtual Staff, and Automation Tips with Adrienne Greene
Are you wondering how to build businesses that allow you to travel the world? In this episode, Craig is with Adrienne Greene, an experienced entrepreneur and real estate investor who has successfully built a real estate portfolio and virtual staffing business while living abroad. She made the leap from a traditional W2 job to running multiple businesses remotely, and in this episode, she shares her inspiring journey. Adrienne’s path began with real estate investing on a farm, and she discovered the power of house hacking by renting out a basement to generate income. As her portfolio grew, she scaled her investments through systems and virtual assistants, making the process smoother and more efficient. Balancing real estate investing with family life while traveling full-time wasn’t easy, but Adrienne found ways to make it work. She also reveals the technology tools that keep her business running effortlessly. Tune in to learn how you can build a business that supports your dreams, whether you're at home or traveling the world. This episode is packed with actionable insights to help you achieve financial freedom, automate your business, and live life on your terms. PODCAST HIGHLIGHTS:[02:31] - Adrienne Greene joins the show from Hanoi, Vietnam. [03:41] - Adrienne talks about her experience traveling with her family. [05:41] - Adrienne explains how she transitioned from finance to teaching. [07:54] - Adrienne shares her first step into entrepreneurship through tutoring. [08:34] - Adrienne recounts starting a family farm and the lessons learned. [10:58] - How Adrienne turned her family farm into an investment opportunity. [13:38] - Adrienne discusses her first real estate purchase, a family farm. [17:23] - Adrienne shares the numbers on her first farm deal and its profitability. [20:56] - Transitioning from a farm to a more profitable real estate strategy. [24:33] - How Adrienne scaled up condos in Northern Virginia. [27:43] - The power of investing in rental properties for cash flow. [30:48] - Adrienne’s big move to Myrtle Beach and the start of short-term rentals. [33:58] - Lessons from managing short-term rentals remotely and building systems. [36:48] - Adrienne talks about her short-term rental experience with Airbnb. [39:18] - How automation and outsourcing systems help Adrienne travel while managing properties. HOST Craig Curelop 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefiguy 📘 Book: https://store.biggerpockets.com/products/the-house-hacking-strategy 🏘️ Buy Real Estate: https://bit.ly/3V3QDze GUEST Adrienne Greene 📘Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ARealGreen123/ 🌐Website: https://adriennegreen.com/ 🔗LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arealgreen/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arealgreen
Feb 19, 2025 • 1h 10min
Episode 228 - House Hacking Secrets and Million-Dollar Deals with Sarah Weaver
Are you wondering how real estate investing can lead to financial freedom while traveling the world? In this episode of Invest2FI, Craig Curelop is joined by Sarah Weaver, a successful real estate investor who turned house hacking into a six-figure income. Sarah shares how she bought her first property for $115K, transforming it into a $1.4M portfolio. She also discusses her strategy of renting out multiple properties remotely, generating $6,000 per month in passive income. Discover her tips for scaling with virtual assistants, how she achieved financial freedom by age 28, and how house hacking and mid-term rentals helped fund her travels. Whether you're just starting or looking to scale, Sarah’s story offers actionable insights on turning real estate investments into a thriving business while enjoying life on the go. PODCAST HIGHLIGHTS:[03:39] - Sarah’s $115K property and her $1.4M portfolio growth. [7:20] - How Sarah started house hacking to generate $6,000 per month. [12:00] - Financing strategies: Minimal funds and leveraging creative deals. [17:50] - Growing from one rental to 20 properties while traveling. [22:30] - Managing properties remotely through systems and virtual assistants. [30:10] - The rise of mid-term rentals and their role in passive income. [35:45] - Key mindset for first-time investors looking to scale. [40:20] - The power of virtual assistants in scaling remotely. [47:00] - Lessons learned scaling a business from $115K to $1.4M. [53:15]- Remote property management strategies to keep profits high. [58:30] - Finding the right team to make remote real estate management work.HOST Craig Curelop 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefiguy 📘 Book: https://store.biggerpockets.com/products/the-house-hacking-strategy 🏘️ Buy Real Estate: https://bit.ly/3V3QDze GUEST Sarah Weaver 📘Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sarahdweaverpage 🌐Website: https://www.sarahdweaver.com/ 🔗LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahdweaver/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahdweaver/
Feb 12, 2025 • 38min
Episode 227 - From Naval Academy to Real Estate Success: Gabe Slind’s House Hacking Journey in Denver
What does it take to house hack in a high-cost city like Denver? In this episode of Invest2FI, Craig sits down with Gabe Slind. He is a Naval Academy graduate and U.S. Navy officer currently stationed in Denver, Colorado. With a passion for financial independence and discovered real estate investing. Determined to make the most of his time in Denver, Gabe took a calculated risk and purchased a six-bedroom house hack using a VA loan. Despite facing $40,000 in unexpected repair costs, he successfully rented out all the rooms, generating cash flow while living for free. Now, he shares his insights on choosing the right real estate team, managing tenants, and maximizing house hacking opportunities in a high-cost market. Whether you’re new to investing or looking to scale, Gabe’s story proves that house hacking is still viable in 2025. Learn how he secured financing, negotiated a deal, and managed tenants—all while serving in the U.S. Navy. If you’re ready to start investing, this episode is packed with practical insights to get you there. PODCAST HIGHLIGHTS:[2:59] Gabe transitions from the Naval Academy to Denver and discovers real estate investing. [7:13] House hacking’s impact and how Scott Trench’s talk introduced Gabe to investing. [12:12] Why Gabe chose Denver and structured his VA loan for success. [15:01] Challenges finding the right property and negotiating seller credits in a competitive market. [18:49] Gabe’s six-bedroom home cost $518K with $18K in seller concessions secured. [21:55] Unexpected repairs included $20K foundation fixes and a $15K sewer replacement. [25:22] Gabe successfully claimed insurance, covering 90% of his expensive sewer repair. [28:02] Finding tenants using Facebook Marketplace, Zillow, and other rental listing platforms. [30:15] Mortgage costs $3,400, rental income exceeds $4,700, boosting cash flow significantly. [33:05] Lessons learned about repairs, realtors, emergency funds, and long-term financial security. HOSTCraig Curelop 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefiguy 📘 Book: https://store.biggerpockets.com/products/the-house-hacking-strategy 🏘️ Buy Real Estate: https://bit.ly/3V3QDze GUEST Gabe Slind Email: gabeslind@gmail.com
Feb 5, 2025 • 50min
Episode 226 - 2025 Real Estate Market Insights with Dave Meyer: Strategies, Predictions, and Trends
Are you facing the complexities of the 2025 real estate market? Join host Craig Curelop as he interviews Dave Meyer, BiggerPockets' data expert to uncover actionable insights for investors. As the Vice President of Data and Analytics at BiggerPockets, Dave is the go-to resource for market insights and strategic advice, helping real estate investors make informed decisions. Dave shares predictions for housing prices, mortgage rates, and rent growth while diving into strategies like house hacking, value-add investing, and creative financing. Known for his engaging personality, he is a sought-after speaker and mentor in the real estate community, offering a unique blend of expertise, humor, and approachability. Perfect for beginners and seasoned investors alike, this episode equips you to leverage transitional markets and long-term trends. Learn how job growth, supply constraints, and smart tools can set you up for success. Stay till the end for an in-depth comparison of real estate, stocks, and crypto investments. PODCAST HIGHLIGHTS:[2:19] Dave Meyer on transitioning back to the US and housing [5:07] Why 2025 is a challenging year for real estate predictions [8:40] Inventory trends and why the market may hit bottom soon [14:32] Resetting expectations: Real estate after 2013–2022 anomalies [19:22] Creative financing tools: Subject-to deals and other strategies [22:03] How to identify high-growth out-of-state real estate markets [33:40] Balancing cash flow vs. appreciation for long-term investors [41:20] Rent growth projections and multifamily supply constraints [44:15] Will housing affordability ever improve in the US? [48:00] Why population growth and immigration are critical for housing HOST Craig Curelop 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefiguy 📘 Book: https://store.biggerpockets.com/products/the-house-hacking-strategy 🏘️ Buy Real Estate: https://bit.ly/3V3QDze GUEST Dave Meyer 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedatadeli 📘 Book: https://store.biggerpockets.com/products/real-estate-by-the-numbers
Jan 29, 2025 • 42min
Episode 225 - How to Leverage Real Estate and Technology for Maximum Returns - Harrison Stevens Shares His Secret
What’s holding you back from real estate success? Join Craig as he interviews Harrison Stevens, Vice President of Marketing at TurboTenant, in this compelling episode. Over his 15-year career, Harrison has developed a deep understanding of landlord challenges and tailored solutions to streamline property management. His expertise lies in combining data-driven marketing strategies with hands-on real estate experience to help landlords maximize their returns. This episode is perfect for aspiring and seasoned investors looking to maximize efficiency, reduce costs, and grow their portfolios while maintaining a career. Harrison also shares insights into TurboTenant’s unique tools designed for landlords managing 1 to 50 properties, including affordable premium options and AI-driven solutions. Whether you’re a first-time investor or a seasoned pro, this episode is packed with actionable advice, relatable stories, and strategies to help you achieve financial independence. Tune in to learn how to align your real estate goals with your lifestyle and career! PODCAST HIGHLIGHTS: [03:52] How Harrison Stevens became a landlord and first property story. [05:37] Negotiating on a $260K townhome in Fort Lauderdale. [09:12] House hacking and sharing costs with tenants and a partner. [12:18] Renting out property for $2400 monthly, cash flow insights. [16:04] Strategic property sales, $400K resale after 5 years. [20:25] Transition to new builds and navigating HOA challenges. [23:38] Moving to Colorado and balancing local property management. [27:05] What sets TurboTenant apart for landlords managing 1-50 properties. [33:56] Financial planning: Balancing cash flow, investments, and equity. [37:42] Leadership insights: Asking "Where do you want to be in 5 years?" Host Craig Curelop 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefiguy 📘 Book: https://store.biggerpockets.com/products/the-house-hacking-strategy 🏘️ Buy Real Estate: https://bit.ly/3V3QDze Guest Harrison Stevens 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harrisonstevens/ 🌐 TurboTenant Website: https://www.turbotenant.com/
Jan 22, 2025 • 52min
Episode 224 - Balancing Career Family and Real Estate: How Kristian Nylund Does It
How do you balance a demanding career, family life, and the complexities of real estate investing? Kristian Nylund, an airline pilot turned property investor, shares his inspiring story of navigating tenant challenges, making emotional investment decisions, and learning from his early deals. Christian walks us through his first two properties, including the lessons learned and the strategies he’s employing to create long-term wealth. This episode of Invest2FI is packed with actionable advice, honest reflections, and a refreshing take on how personal growth and real estate can go hand in hand. PODCAST HIGHLIGHTS:[02:00] Craig welcomes Christian and begins the conversation about his journey [03:20] Kristian shares his background as an airline pilot and why he turned to real estate [05:45] Explains his motivation to invest and early inspiration [08:30] Describes his first property and its appeal in Spokane [12:00] He discusses spending $20,000 on renovations to make the property rent-ready [14:45] He shares his experience dealing with tenant Larry and cash-for-keys challenges [20:15] Lessons from the first property about balancing costs and long-term goals [22:45] Kristian talks about buying a property in Coeur d’Alene with unique features [27:10] He explains using Airbnb to make the most of Coeur d’Alene’s summer market [33:25] Discusses learning not to let excitement lead investment decisions [38:10] Kristian shares his focus on being a present dad while managing properties [44:45] He advises new investors to take action and learn along the way [49:30] Kristian outlines his 2025 goals of building community and improving properties HOST Craig Curelop 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefiguy 📘 Book: https://store.biggerpockets.com/products/the-house-hacking-strategy 🏘️ Buy Real Estate: https://bit.ly/3V3QDze GUEST Kristian Nylund 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristian.nylund/?locale=no&hl=af 💻 Sober Identity: https://linktr.ee/soberidentity?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZOhyWc6mvJ7731pch524PPw-Wyws9eNsrE85M3hIAEbJBia_Is_47Lnho_aem_cUM9ch05mTRbeLS70yyz4A💻 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/k9lund/
Jan 15, 2025 • 51min
Episode 223 - How to Start Real Estate Investing with $70k or Less – Cody Spencer’s Inspiring Journey
What if your first real estate investment could set you up for a lifetime of success? Host Craig Curelop is with Cody Spencer, an experienced investor and real estate agent. Cody shares his journey from small beginnings to a flourishing career. He shares how a manufactured home purchase became the foundation for his real estate portfolio, the lessons learned from seller financing with family, and the pivotal mistakes that shaped his investment strategy. Learn actionable tips for structuring creative deals, managing tenant challenges, and leveraging 1031 exchanges to upgrade your portfolio. Whether you’re a first-time investor or looking to scale, this episode is packed with real-world insights and inspiration. Cody’s story of grit, faith, and persistence will leave you ready to take the next step on your real estate journey. Stay tuned as Cody breaks down his shift to managing Airbnbs, the highs and lows of the short-term rental market, and the mindset shifts that helped him build financial freedom—all while balancing his role as a dad and team leader. Don’t miss real tips for cash flow, creative financing, and making smart investments. PODCAST HIGHLIGHTS:[02:56] Cody shares his early inspiration and how faith guided his real estate path. [07:35] The book that shifted Cody's financial mindset. [12:24] Purchasing a $55K mobile home with cash and generating $700/month in cash flow. [16:50] How Cody secured his first property under market value. [22:15] Buying five doors from his aunt using a creative financing deal. [28:40] Managing tenant challenges and transitioning properties. [31:10] Transitioning to short-term rentals for higher returns. [35:45] Hiring a property manager and seeing profits grow. [40:20] How Cody balances mentorship and personal investments. [46:12] Cody’s top tips for aspiring investors. HOST Craig Curelop 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefiguy 📘 Book: https://store.biggerpockets.com/products/the-house-hacking-strategy 🏘️ Buy Real Estate: https://bit.ly/3V3QDze Guest Cody Spencer 📸Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_cody_spencer_/ ��Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@_cody_spencer_ ��Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@_cody_spencer_
