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
Jun 19, 2024 • 1h 11min
Episode 193 - Racing to Riches Guide to Real Estate Investing to Secure Financial Independence
Join Craig as he takes on a solo episode to interview Colton Haaker, two-time EnduroCross Champion and real estate investor. Starting from achieving his lifelong dream of becoming a professional dirt bike racer, Colton shares his incredibly unique career. With his high-risk, high-reward career, Colton offers valuable insights into the financial realities of sports professions, often glamorized but rarely understood in their true financial scope. PODCAST HIGHLIGHTS:[3:30 ] Beginning of Colton’s Financial Journey [6:05] On Becoming a Professional Athlete [12:45] The Ins and Outs of Colton’s Dirt biking Career [25:35] The Average Salary as a Dirt bike Professional [29:00] The Power of Real Estate Investing [34:15] Colton’s First Real Deal [43:15] Why Investing in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho Pays Off [48:50] Why House Hacking Is the Best Investment Strategy [54:05] Setting Yourself Apart in This Market [1:03:30] Must-Hear Advice for 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 GUEST Colton Haaker 💻 Website: https://www.lakecdapm.com/about 📩 Email: LakeCDApm@gmail.com 📞 Personal Number: (208) 215-4570
Jun 12, 2024 • 54min
Episode 192 - How to Make $1 Million a Year Through Land Investing Deals
In this episode of the Invest2FI podcast, we dive into this unique strategy for newbie investors aiming to make a million in just a year! Our guest, Mason McDonald, shares his inspiring journey from his intense career in healthcare administration to his current successful ventures as a land-flipper and investor. So, if you’re looking to move away from your mentally and physically draining W2 role, you might find inspiration from how Mason achieved financial independence through real estate. As a specialist in land deals, Mason provides insider tips on identifying profitable opportunities and understanding land deals in layman's terms. With his experience running land-flipping businesses and his own podcast on land investing, our guest shares how he manages to close deals all across the country within just a few days from discovery to closing. Throughout the episode, we discuss finding opportunities after facing rejection, the advantages of sending neutral offers, and navigating financial risks as a new investor. We also discuss the keys to building a successful partnership with your real-life partner and managing a healthy work-life balance without compromising your personal relationship. Mason’s story clearly shows that with the proper research and approach, anyone can succeed in land investments. Tune in for an insightful discussion, and don’t miss out on the exclusive tips Mason shares on making a million in a year for newbie investors! PODCAST HIGHLIGHTS:[5:05] Beginning of Mason’s Career Journey [9:50] His Career Progression in Healthcare Administration [12:20] On the Difficulties of his W2 Job [18:20] Mason’s First-Ever Real Estate Deal [23:25] On Finding Opportunities After Rejections [25:50] What to Look for in a Land Deal [27:30] Explaining Land Deals in Layman Terms[30:50] Managing Expectations After Huge Wins [32:48] On Sending Neutral Offers [36:00] Building Successful Partnerships With Your Spouse [44:15] How to Succeed in Investing Deals Across the Country [46:40] Words of Wisdom for Any 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 Chad Rocke 💼 Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chadrockerealtorinvestor/ 📸 IG: https://www.instagram.com/da_rock_22/ 🏘️ Work with Chad: https://www.thefiteam.com/team/chad-rocke/ GUEST Mason McDonald 💼 Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mason-mcdonald-748110113/ 💻 Website: https://masonrmcdonald.com/ 🎧 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheBigPictureBlueprint 🎙️Podcast: https://masonrmcdonald.com/podcasts/ 📩 Email: mason@rmgoldenllc.com 📞 Personal Number: 8323267985
Jun 7, 2024 • 13min
Invest2Friday: Considerations When Selling A Property
From Chad's perspective, holding on to a property is better than selling it, but there are sometimes reasons to sell. In this episode he runs through his considerations for when he might selling one of his investments. And, when selling makes sense, there are lots of considerations to getting your property ready to list. Most importantly, determining how to price the property. Tune in to walk through preparing an investment property for a sale.
Jun 5, 2024 • 1h 3min
Episode 191 - From Dream to Deal: Practical Steps for Real Estate Beginners with Andrew McKagan and Camila Colon
Ready to take the first steps toward financial independence? Join us for an engaging episode with Andrew McKagan and Camila Colon as they share their dynamic as life and real estate partners. This house-hacking couple is ready to reveal their practical tips and tricks for finding tenants, vetting property deals, and approaching different strategies for real estate investing. Don’t miss out on this conversation as we’re going deep into the technical and tactical know-how for real estate success in 2024! Andrew and Camila share their advice for navigating the first year of investing, which often comes with decision paralysis and high-risk management. From market fluctuations to unexpected expenses, this segment provides invaluable tips for weathering the storms of the first year and emerging more substantial on the other side. Think you can’t afford to buy a house hack? Think again. This podcast debunks myths about affordability and empowers you to take action. Reframe your perspective and discover how the path to homeownership is more attainable than you might think. From negotiating terms to joint ventures, this episode offers a candid look at the realities of real estate investing. Whether you're a novice investor or a seasoned pro, there's something for everyone in this comprehensive guide to financial independence through real estate. Andrew and Camila’s story is a powerful reminder not to let doubt or uncertainty hold you back any longer. It’s time to start learning how to maximize your investment potential today! PODCAST HIGHLIGHTS: [4:10] Starting the Journey to Financial Independence [8:25] A Glimpse Into His First Deal [13:49] Navigating the First Year of Immense Risk [15:45] Why You Do Have Enough to Start Buying a Home [17:27] On Bidding on Deals Above Your Budget [26:15] Co-living as a Single Woman [28:35] How to Find and Screen Tenants for Your Units [34:10] Details and Numbers of Their Colorado Property [39:00] Is Stick to One Strategy for Real Estate Better? [41:10] Andrew and Camila’s Joint Property [47:05] Why You Should Leverage Your Equity [50:25] This Might Be Holding You Back 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 Chad Rocke 💼 Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chadrockerealtorinvestor/ 📸 IG: https://www.instagram.com/da_rock_22/ 🏘️ Work with Chad: https://www.thefiteam.com/team/chad-rocke/ GUEST Andrew McKagan and Camila Colon 💼 Andrew’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-mckagan-28342a69/ 💼 Camila’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/camila-colon-084873141/
May 31, 2024 • 13min
Invest2Friday: Loan Types & Why PMI Isn't All That Bad
In today's episode Craig walks us through the 5 most popular loan types to help determine which one might make the most sense for you. There are the 3% and 5% down conventional, the VA loan, USDA loan, FHA loan and 203K loan. If these are just letters and numbers to you, tune in to see which ones you might qualify for and what the benefits might be. It might also surprise you to hear Craig's perspective on PMI, and why it might actually benefit you in the long run!If you found this episode helpful or you need more guidance on loan products reach out to Craig @thefiguy on IG.
May 29, 2024 • 50min
Episode 190 - Creating a Successful Financial Legacy with Canon Furth
Wondering what it’s like to start house hacking WITHOUT the help of a parent’s trust fund or getting extremely lucky with opportunities? Join us for this episode as Canon Furth shares his journey through the highs and lows of house hacking. Kicking off with the burning question of overcoming the initial fears and uncertainties of investing, Canon’s story shows that anyone can take the first steps toward financial freedom and succeed. From understanding the housing market economy to navigating tenant screening, this episode offers must-hear wisdom for beginners and seasoned investors alike. We discuss personal anecdotes and real-life experiences that provide a glimpse into the realities of house hacking, renovating, buying properties, and even moving to Denver! Whether you're just starting out or looking to expand your investment portfolio, Canon’s story offers a realistic roadmap to success in real estate investment and financial freedom. Learn how to start small, overcome obstacles, and leave a lasting legacy for your future self and family. PODCAST HIGHLIGHTS: [4:15] Starting point [9:00] Overcoming the scary stuff [14:05] Understanding the economy of the housing market [16:05] Screening tenants [19:50] Moving to Denver [22:54] Renovation and purchase numbers [29:48] Diving into his portfolio [39:06] looking into his current cashflow and plans [42:05] Start small and keep going [44:50] On leaving a legacy 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 Chad Rocke 💼 Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chadrockerealtorinvestor/ 📸 IG: https://www.instagram.com/da_rock_22/ 🏘️ Work with Chad: https://www.thefiteam.com/team/chad-rocke/ GUEST Canon Furth 📸 IG: https://www.instagram.com/canon_furth/ 💼 Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/canon-furth-68205392 📱Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/canon.furth/
May 24, 2024 • 13min
Invest2Friday: So You Want To Be A Realtor?
In today's episode of Invest2Friday Chad Rocke walks us through the good, bad & ugly of being a real estate agent. He kicks off the episode at the start of the process from taking your course, how much it costs and how many hours it'll take you. He'll even spill the beans on the reality of how many agents pass the exam the first time they take it....tune in to hear if Chad was able to pass the test the first time around!If your considering becoming an agent, reach out to Chad on IG @rocketherealtor
May 22, 2024 • 1h 8min
Episode 189 - Shaping Your Financial Journey with Dane Pearson
Have you ever wondered what it takes to achieve true financial independence? Join Dane on the Invest2FI podcast as he shares the secrets behind his financial freedom journey. We talk about Dane’s "Aha!" moment and overcoming his analysis paralysis. He dives into this challenge, detailing how he navigated through the mental barriers of those big leaps. Dane also shares his thoughts on negotiation and methods for securing a deal, even if it means offering way above the asking price. From the start Dane acted as a seasoned investor knowing the payoff of investing will increase in time. As we look back on his four years of real estate investing - Dane shares the exact numbers of his cash flow, losses, and more in this jam-packed episode. Dane's story shows that financial success is attainable for everyone. His journey to increasing his net worth is a replicable blueprint that anyone can follow with dedication to reaching your financial independence goals. By sharing his own experiences, Dane invites you to embark on your path to financial independence, showing that anyone can achieve their wealth-building goals with the right mindset and actions. PODCAST HIGHLIGHTS: [4:10] The Start of Dane’s Financial Independence [7:10] His Aha! Moment [10:00] Overcoming Analysis Paralysis in Real Estate [16:20] His First Real Deal [20:10] Mindset for Real Estate Negotiation [24:30] Hiring a Property Manager [27:50] The Key to Vetting Tenants and Roommates [38:00] On Buying a Duplex [42:00] Why Rent-By-The-Room Isn’t Always Ideal [49:05] A Glimpse Into Dane’s Investment Numbers [51:30] On Downpayments and Equity [1:00:00] Best Piece of Advice for 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 Chad Rocke 💼 Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chadrockerealtorinvestor/ 📸 IG: https://www.instagram.com/da_rock_22/ 🏘️ Work with Chad: https://www.thefiteam.com/team/chad-rocke/
May 17, 2024 • 17min
Invest2Friday: One of The Worst Deals I've Ever Done
My 4th deal could have been an absolute cash cow. Everything about it lined up perfectly, great location and property was set up to be split up into three separate units. When I do deals for clients, I cross every T and dot every i, but for my own deals, it's easy to work quickly and not do the due diligence I do for for you all!If you want to hear my biggest investment failure tune into this episode. If you're in an investment mess, and need help getting out hit me up on IG @thefiguy.
May 15, 2024 • 58min
Episode 188 - Optimize Your Investments and Your Life with the “Hillbilly Millionaire” Hugh Carnahan!
Join us for a rollercoaster of a journey with Hugh Carnahan, who shares how he went from being a “hillbilly” to a millionaire in just 15 months! As a 2-second Lean Automation expert, Hugh brings a new perspective with his IT, manufacturing, and optimizing team background. Hugh’s first real estate deal was a massive leap, instantly adding 26 houses in just one deal! This early success and capacity for risk paid off as he ventured into multi-family homes and commercial real estate. Tune in as we talk more about how Hugh further cemented himself in real estate: diving into successful podcasts, starting his meetup, and learning to be flexible and adaptable. We also dive into an in-depth explanation of seller financing and the overall advantages of exploring commercial real estate. Hugh's success story is a testament to the power of innovative thinking, resilience, and commitment to your vision. From humble beginnings to incredible financial success, he continues to inspire and mentor others in pursuit of their goals. As he sets his sights on the next milestone of becoming the “Hillbilly Billionaire,” don’t miss out on this chance to hear how you, too, can become a success through grit and strategic moves. PODCAST HIGHLIGHTS: [4:40] The Start of Hugh’s Incredible Story [9:35] On Taking Over a Company [11:55] What Is the Two-Second Lean Automation [13:00] Getting Started With Real Estate [19:30] Hugh’s First Deal - Of 26 Houses! [25:35] Adapting During COVID [32:55] Advantages of Commercial Real Estate [35:40] The Power of Starting a Meetup [37:15] The Superpower of Pivoting and Adapting [40:20] Are Multi-Family Homes Easier Than Single-Family Homes? [46:05] What’s Next for Hugh’s Portfolio? [47:10] The Ins and Outs of Seller Financing [49:20] Words of Wisdom for 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 Chad Rocke 💼 Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chadrockerealtorinvestor/ 📸 IG: https://www.instagram.com/da_rock_22/ 🏘️ Work with Chad: https://www.thefiteam.com/team/chad-rocke/ GUEST Hugh Carnahan 📸 IG: https://www.instagram.com/hughcarnahan/ 💼 Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hugh-carnahan-8a00b423/ 💻 Website: https://www.hughcarnahan.com/ 🎧 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Carhug2012
