Rental Property Owner & Real Estate Investor Podcast

Creative financing opens amazing doors for real estate investors—but it can also destroy deals when done wrong. In this episode, Caleb Christopher, founder of Creative TC, breaks down how to use Subject-To and Seller-Financing strategies safely, legally, and ethically. Caleb shares real-world stories from the trenches—like taking over a mortgage where the sellers actually paid him—and explains what to watch out for when banks threaten the due-on-sale clause. You'll learn: What creative financing really means (and when you should—or shouldn't—use it) How to protect sellers, buyers, and your reputation The biggest legal and ethical mistakes wholesalers make What happens when banks call a loan due—and how to fix it How Caleb uses AI to streamline contracts, due diligence, and compliance If you've ever been tempted to close a deal "subject-to," this conversation will show you how to do it right—and keep yourself out of trouble. Find out more: Homepage: https://calebchristopher.io/ Creative Finance Con

Artificial intelligence is transforming every corner of real estate—from how we analyze deals to how we manage tenants, leads, and operations. But most investors still don't know where to start. In this episode, Brian Hamrick talks with Clay Lehman, a longtime investor, property-management expert, and AI educator who helps entrepreneurs and agents use today's tools to save time, make better decisions, and grow their business. You'll learn: The fundamentals vs. hype of AI in real estate investing How to use Google Gemini, Notebook LM, and Claude for research, analysis, and automation Ways to map your ideal client using AI and psychographic data How to build AI-driven processes that improve communication, marketing, and customer service What's coming next: agentic AI tools like Manus and Comet that can complete multi-step tasks for you Clay also shares real-world use cases—how he runs a title company with AI assistance, automates team training, and even experiments with voice and text AI agents to f

Every successful real estate development starts long before the first shovel hits the ground. From concept and capital stack to design, construction, and operations—understanding the process is key to building with purpose. In this episode, Steve Achram and Peter Skornia of Cella Building Company in Grand Rapids, Michigan, share a step-by-step guide to sustainable development and walk us through their Wealthy & Sheldon project—an example of how thoughtful design, solid financial modeling, and community collaboration can turn a vision into a high-performing building. We cover: What goes into a bulletproof proforma and capital stack How to conduct site due diligence and align with municipal priorities Using grants and incentives like the Emerging Developer Grant in Grand Rapids The full timeline from concept to construction to operations How sustainability and community equity drive long-term value Lessons learned from the Wealthy & Sheldon mixed-use development Why affordable and attainab

Underperforming properties are where the biggest money is made—if you know how to fix them. That's where expert property management comes in. In this episode, Brian speaks with Craig Marquardo, VP of Multifamily at VCS Property Management, who has over 20 years of experience cleaning up operations, boosting tenant retention, and maximizing NOI. Craig pulls back the curtain on how property managers really operate and what every owner needs to know to protect their investment. You'll learn: Tenant Psychology: How residents think about rent increases and what keeps them paying on time. Reducing Delinquencies: Why 80% of late rent is due to management neglect—and how to fix it. Spotting Red Flags: How to audit your management company and avoid hidden fees, sloppy files, and missing leases. Owner Oversight: Why annual administrative reviews are just as important as physical inspections. Development Mistakes: Why property managers should be involved before you break ground to avoid costly design flaws.

Negotiation, deal structure, and legal traps—these can make or break a real estate investor. Few people understand this better than Bob Diamond, a seasoned real estate attorney, investor, and developer featured on Fox, NBC, NPR, and TLC's Flip That House. With 30 years of legal and investing experience, Bob has personally negotiated more than $100 million in real estate transactions and authored three books on real estate investing. In this episode, he shares powerful strategies investors can use today to thrive in a shifting market, including: Overages 101: How to claim surplus funds left over after foreclosure auctions and turn them into a cash business without buying properties. Foreclosure Creative Plays: How reinstating loans and taking over existing mortgages can save investors cash and avoid personal guarantees. Commercial Property Opportunities: Why distressed office buildings and loan workouts are prime for repositioning into housing. Negotiating with Local Lenders: How to build relationships

One of the biggest challenges for rental property owners is ensuring residents pay on time—and keeping them motivated to stay. What if you could turn rent into a win-win, boosting your cash flow while helping tenants improve their credit and earn rewards? In this episode, Brian talks with Lily Liu, founder and CEO of Pinata, a fast-growing platform that transforms rent payments into financial progress. Lily shares how Pinata helps: Renters build credit by reporting on-time payments to all three bureaus Property owners increase on-time payments by 20% or more Landlords and managers reduce turnover with rewards that matter—groceries, utilities, everyday essentials Owners generate ancillary revenue with resident benefit packages With over a million renters already using Pinata, Lily explains how the system works, what it costs, and why forward-thinking landlords are adding it to their toolkit. If you're looking for practical ways to improve collections, boost retention, and give your tenants real value

For investors, developers, and property owners, the future of real estate isn't just about location—it's about building smarter, cheaper, and more sustainably. In this episode, Brian Hamrick sits down with Josh Dorfman, climate entrepreneur, media personality, and co-founder of Plantd, a carbon-negative building materials company recognized by Fast Company as one of the most innovative in the world. Josh has spent his career at the intersection of business and sustainability. You may know him as the creator of The Lazy Environmentalist (Sundance Channel, Sirius XM, and two books). Today, he's focused on practical climate solutions that save money, boost NOI, and increase property values—without forcing investors to change how they build. Topics we cover include: How carbon-negative panels are replacing OSB and plywood in new construction—and why DR Horton placed a 10 million-panel order. The role of AI and smart HVAC systems in cutting energy costs up to 25%. Game-changing retrofits like aerosol sealing

Most real estate investors love hunting for great deals—but few think about the unglamorous step that can make or break a transaction: title insurance. In this episode, Brian Hamrick sits down with Drew Wischhover, Founder and CEO of Inspired Title Group, who brings over 20 years of experience in navigating the hidden risks of property ownership. Drew has seen everything from divorce decrees gone wrong to fraudulent deeds and wire scams—and he explains why title insurance is one of the most important safeguards you can have as an investor. You'll discover: The difference between owner's policies and loan policies, and what each one protects. How title insurance works differently from homeowner's insurance. Real-world horror stories—identity theft, tax sale mistakes, mechanics liens, fraudulent cashier's checks, and wire fraud—that can derail deals. Why wire fraud is on the rise, and how to protect your funds before closing. How new technologies like AI and blockchain may change the title industry—an

What does it take to grow from a single duplex to managing 85 units worth nearly $10 million—and then set your sights on 500 doors? In this episode, Brian Hamrick talks with Bob Biggins, a Michigan-based investor, licensed realtor, and YouTube creator who has been in real estate for nearly 30 years. Starting with a house-hack duplex in the 1990s, Bob slowly built his portfolio while working a corporate job. Today, after exiting that career, he's fully focused on multifamily investing and scaling up. You'll learn: How Bob used education and persistence to build a solid foundation in real estate. Why his mindset shift from "thinking small" to "thinking big" is fueling his current growth. The challenges of managing and rehabbing older housing stock common in Michigan. Why self-managing has allowed him to reinvest, increase property values, and build cash flow. The role of mentorship, networking, and platforms like YouTube in sharing knowledge and attracting opportunities. How Bob plans to make the le

How do you scale short-term rentals into a hospitality brand for large groups—and use bourbon tourism to keep your calendar full? In this episode, Brian Hamrick talks with Andrew Llewellyn, founder of Super Stays, about how he's turning old office buildings into boutique-style short-term rentals that host bachelor parties, weddings, and corporate retreats of 8 to 42 people along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. Andrew shares: Why large group stays outperform traditional Airbnbs How to brand and differentiate your STR business from the competition The power of upsells: private chefs, curated bourbon tastings, and luxury vans How bourbon tourism fuels consistent demand and high occupancy Lessons from scaling his first 15-bedroom property and building his next one The role of AI automations in streamlining guest communication If you're exploring short-term rental investing, hospitality branding, or large group travel, this episode is packed with practical strategies and inspiration. Find out more: https

What if your rental properties could deliver strong cash flow and transform lives? In this episode, Brian Hamrick talks with Jim Boad, founder of Shelton Housing and author of Group Home Accelerator, about how investors can build profitable, non-licensed group homes—specifically sober living homes—that provide safe, structured housing for people in recovery. Jim has launched more than 14 recovery homes in just two years, with more on the way. He shares: Why the demand for sober living and recovery housing is exploding nationwide The difference between licensed vs. non-licensed group homes (and why non-licensed is often easier) How to structure your properties for maximum occupancy and accountability Typical costs, rents, and how investors are earning 5–10X more cash flow than traditional rentals The challenges, community concerns, and fair housing rules you need to know How Jim leverages AI to streamline his business and even secure grants If you've ever wondered how to combine real estate inves

What if the answer to West Michigan's—and America's—housing shortage isn't massive new developments, but small homes tucked into the neighborhoods we already live in? In this episode of the Rental Property Owner & Real Estate Investor Podcast, Brian Hamrick talks with Nathan Biller, accredited ADU specialist and co-founder of My Backyard Build. Nathan has built his own ADU, permitted several more, and is helping shape local policy as a member of Grand Rapids' ADU Task Force. You'll learn: What exactly an ADU is (granny flats, carriage houses, basement conversions, detached units, and more). Why investors should consider ADUs—from the math behind rental income to the 1% rule and reduced land costs. Local and national trends—how California, Portland, Seattle, and Denver have embraced ADUs, and what's happening in Michigan cities like Grand Rapids, Ann Arbor, and Traverse City. Financing and cost considerations—real numbers on what it takes to build an ADU and how investors are paying for them. Pra

What does it really take to bring a crumbling historic building back to life—and turn it into a thriving, income-producing community space? In this episode, Brian Hamrick sits down with Brad Andrus, commercial real estate investor, broker, and developer behind the ambitious restoration of the Fine Arts Theater in Denton, Texas. Brad shares the full story: from its beginnings as an undertaker’s shop in the early 1900s, to its heyday as a bustling single-screen theater, to decades of vacancy after fire damage—and now, its rebirth as a live performance, film, and event venue. You’ll learn: The hidden challenges of historic renovations—from roof failures to unexpected structural issues. How federal and state historic tax credits can make or break the capital stack. Why city and community partnerships are essential in adaptive reuse projects. How to balance profitability with legacy-minded investing. The role of AI tools in Brad’s real estate business and his new podcast Weeks Ahead AI. Whether you’re

Episode 511 – Meg Epstein | CA South Development What happens when a UCLA finance grad skips Wall Street during the 2008 crash and instead dives into $60 million Bel Air construction projects? For Meg Epstein, that pivot led to a thriving development career and the founding of CA South, a Nashville-based real estate firm with over $380 million in projects across industrial, multifamily, and mixed-use. In this episode, Meg shares: How she went from walking luxury job sites in Beverly Hills to reshaping urban neighborhoods in Nashville Why great design is her secret weapon in a sea of bland multifamily builds How she’s pioneering short-term rentable condos as a hybrid between investment and lifestyle What industrial outdoor storage (IOS) really is — and why it’s her next big bet Her take on urban planning, walkability, and the future of Southeastern U.S. cities How she’s leveraging AI to streamline due diligence and investor communications The unique opportunities found in non-institutional, niche

Modern energy regulations and rising utility costs are reshaping commercial real estate. In this episode, veteran green-building contractor Robert Pulitzer of Green Street Global explains how owners can tap hidden operational savings, fund deep retrofits with zero out-of-pocket capital, and future-proof assets against tightening decarbonization rules. In This Episode You’ll Learn: Where the Money Hides: How utility-bill audits uncover 10-20 % in overcharges and fund the first wave of improvements. The Retrofit Roadmap: Start with the building envelope, then right-size HVAC, lighting, and water systems for 20-40 % lower consumption. Financing That Pays for Itself: Using C-PACE, equipment financing, and shared-savings models to cover 100 % of soft and hard costs. Best-Fit Property Types: Hotels, senior housing, hospitals, industrial facilities, private schools—and any owner-occupied building with high OPEX. Value-Add for the 21st Century: Why lower carbon emissions translate directly into higher NOI,

Most investors stop at buying and renting—but what if your next move was developing the places your community actually needs? In this episode, real estate developer and consultant Kristi Kandel shares how everyday investors can become local developers without millions in the bank or a background in construction. With $450M+ in completed projects across retail, housing, clean energy, and adaptive reuse, Kristi breaks down what it really takes to turn vacant buildings or underutilized lots into thriving local assets. You’ll learn: What development actually means (hint: it’s not always ground-up construction) How to get started with adaptive reuse and infill projects Who to talk to first — from city managers to regional lenders to neighbors How to access local grants, incentives, and funding opportunities The step-by-step process Kristi uses to help investors become developers in their own towns Why small towns (under 10,000 people) are filled with overlooked development potential Kristi also share

What would Warren Buffett do if he invested in real estate? In this episode, Brian Hamrick welcomes back Paul Moore, Founder of Wellings Capital and author of multiple real estate investing books, to explore safer, smarter strategies in today’s market. Paul shares why he believes Buffett’s investing principles apply directly to commercial real estate—and even argues that Buffett might have been more successful in property than in stocks. Key topics we cover: Preferred Equity 101: where it fits in the capital stack and why it can deliver debt-like returns with equity-style protection Rescue Capital vs. Safer Structures: why Wellings avoids distressed bailouts and instead focuses on recapitalizations and acquisitions Hybrid JV Equity: the new strategy that combines the protections of preferred equity with the upside of common equity The Buffett Playbook: how timeless principles like intrinsic value, discipline, and saying “no” apply to real estate investors today Asset Management as Risk Control: why

Before you buy or lease commercial real estate, there’s one report that can save you from six-figure surprises — the Property Condition Assessment. In this episode, Greg Trotter, a 50-year veteran of construction, consulting, and expert witness testimony, joins us to explain why PCAs are essential to investor due diligence. From flood damage and corroded fire systems to structural defects hiding in plain sight, Greg breaks down how a thorough PCA protects your capital, prevents lawsuits, and gives you leverage at the negotiation table. You’ll learn: What’s included in a PCA (and how it differs from a home inspection) The biggest deal-killers found in commercial properties Why banks and equity partners both rely on PCAs (but for different reasons) Real-world examples of surprises — including collapsing balconies, failed sprinkler systems, and one “missing” sewer line What happens when PCA reports are inaccurate — and why Greg sometimes ends up in court Whether you're buying an apartment building, l

What do NFL players, luxury beach homes, and high-stakes real estate deals have in common? Brooke Kromer. In this episode, we dive into the world of high net worth investing in Florida’s exclusive 30A market, where multimillion-dollar short-term rentals are helping athletes, coaches, and savvy investors grow and preserve wealth. Brooke Kromer—realtor, investor, and daughter of longtime NFL coach Aaron Kromer—shares how she uses her insider knowledge and lifelong NFL connections to guide players and entrepreneurs into strategic real estate investments along the Gulf Coast. We talk about: Why 30A is booming for short-term rental investing How Brooke walks first-time buyers and NFL stars through deals worth $1M–$25M Real numbers: what it costs to buy, hold, and earn rental income in this luxury market How athletes navigate pressure, family dynamics, and financial decisions The tax advantages and bonus depreciation strategies being used right now Why Brooke left a successful career in sports broadcast

What does it take to scale from a house hacker to owning 75 rental units—without deep pockets and during a high-interest rate environment? In this episode, Jesse Lang breaks down her journey from “accidental landlord” to full-time real estate investor. Starting with a $92,000 condo in Austin, TX, she began house hacking before moving into long-term rentals, wholesaling, and eventually mastering the BRRRR strategy (Buy, Renovate, Rent, Refinance, Repeat). Jesse shares exactly how she built momentum, how she leveraged private money and hard money lenders, and why she’s tripled her portfolio in just a few short years—all while managing properties remotely with a lean team in Columbus, Ohio. You’ll learn: How Jesse used house hacking to get started The pros and cons of wholesaling vs. holding Her approach to raising private capital (including converting sellers into lenders) How she systematized her BRRRR process to scale fast Why she prefers the Midwest and how she built her team How she gets 100% of