REady2Scale - Real Estate Investing

From running a healthcare company to investing in “castles” and golf courses, Todd Wenner's journey is nothing short of fascinating. Amidst a looming debt crisis, Todd Wenner discusses why multifamily real estate remains a safe play. From exploring the dynamics of debt, inflation, and the unique strength of multifamily assets, this episode is a mini masterclass in strategic investing. What You'll Learn: Transition from Healthcare to Real Estate: Todd discusses how experiences in healthcare real estate led to broader opportunities in the sector, showcasing the adaptability required in investment strategies. Evaluating Unconventional Properties: Learn about the challenges and strategies in purchasing and managing unusual properties like castles and golf courses, including the importance of due diligence and creative vision. Market Dynamics and Investment Strategies: Todd provides an expert analysis of current market conditions, including cap rates, debt structures, and the impact of economic changes on property values. He emphasizes the importance of understanding market cycles for making informed investment decisions. Rescue Capital and Crisis Management: Insights into managing properties during financial stress, the role of rescue capital, and strategies for navigating times of economic uncertainty are discussed, providing valuable tips for real estate investors. Future Outlook in Real Estate Investment: The conversation covers predictions and strategies for future real estate investments, focusing on multifamily properties and the importance of adaptive financial strategies in response to shifting market conditions. This episode offers valuable perspectives for anyone interested in the intersections of real estate, business development, and investment strategy, providing a deep dive into managing and capitalizing on diverse real estate opportunities.. Prefer to read the interview? View the transcripts here. Watch the full episode here. Contact Todd Wenner: Twenner@bluelake-capital.com Are you REady2Scale Your Multifamily Investments? Learn more about growing your wealth, strengthening your portfolio, and scaling to the next level at www.bluelake-capital.com. To reach Ellie & her team, email them at info@bluelake-capital.com or complete our investor form at www.bluelake-capital.com/new-investor-form and they'll connect with you. Time Stamps 01:54 From Healthcare to Castles: Todd's Diverse Portfolio 02:27 The Intricacies of Real Estate in Healthcare 04:56 Owning a Castle: A Unique Investment Journey 08:04 The Economics of Golf Courses: Not a Quick Win 10:10 Multifamily Real Estate: Navigating Current Challenges 10:40 The Looming Debt Crisis in Real Estate 13:44 Strategies for Overcoming Financial Distress 23:48 Engaging with Banks: A Strategy for Crisis Management 27:21 Navigating the Complex World of Banking and Loans 30:22 Demystifying Cap Rates in Real Estate 31:49 The Future of Cap Rates and Real Estate Investment Strategies 46:46 The Personal Side of a Real Estate Mogul Producer: Blue Lake Capital Strategist: Syed Mahmood Editor: Emma Walker Opening Music: Pomplamoose #investing #wealth #realestate Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Curious about the behind-the-scenes cap rates and the real goings-on in the multifamily sector? This episode is tailor-made for you! Join Ellie Perlman, CEO of Blue Lake Capital, as she dives deep into the complexities and nuances of today's multifamily market in a must-listen podcast episode. Key Topics: Understanding Today's Multifamily Market: Ellie Perlman breaks down the dynamics of the current multifamily market, discussing cap rates, market compression, and investment strategies. Learn what's really happening behind the scenes and how market shifts affect investors and operators alike. Diving Deep into Acquisitions: Delve into the fascinating world of real estate acquisitions. Ellie shares her experiences and strategies in navigating the complex landscape of buying properties, emphasizing the importance of cap rates and how they've evolved in response to economic changes. Asset Management Challenges and Strategies: Discover the intricate challenges of asset management in today's market. Ellie discusses the difficulties faced by sponsors and the crucial decisions needed to protect investor money and manage properties effectively amidst financial strains. Capital Movement and Investor Sentiment: Gain insights into how investor attitudes towards multifamily investments are shifting. Ellie explains the transition from caution back to active investment, highlighting the importance of choosing the right opportunities and partners. Concluding Thoughts and Future Outlook: Ellie offers her perspectives on the potential future movements in the market, advising on investment strategies and how to approach the current economic environment. Takeaway for Listeners: This episode is not just an exploration of multifamily investments but a detailed guide on navigating market uncertainties and capitalizing on emerging opportunities. Whether you're an experienced investor or new to the field, Ellie's unfiltered insights provide valuable knowledge to help inform your investment decisions. Join us to get a deeper understanding of the multifamily market directly from an industry expert. Watch the full YouTube video here. Read the transcript here. Are you REady2Scale Your Multifamily Investments? Learn more about growing your wealth, strengthening your portfolio, and scaling to the next level at www.bluelake-capital.com. To reach Ellie & her team, email them at info@bluelake-capital.com or complete our investor form at www.bluelake-capital.com/new-investor-form and they'll connect with you. Time Stamps: 00:00 Introduction to Multifamily Investing 00:31 Meet Ellie Pearlman: CEO of BULIC Capital 00:44 Understanding the Multifamily Market Today 01:47 Deep Dive into Acquisitions 08:35 Asset Management Challenges and Strategies 12:36 Capital Movement and Investor Sentiment 17:37 Concluding Thoughts and Future Outlook Producer: Blue Lake Capital Strategist: Syed Mahmood Editor: Emma Walker Opening Music: Pomplamoose Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Could water truly be the new gold? In this compelling episode of "REady2Scale," host Jeannette Friedrich, Director of Investor Relations at Blue Lake Capital, engages with Riggs Eckelberry, President and CEO of OriginClear. Together, they explore the evolving significance of water as an indispensable resource and discuss its potential to be as valuable as gold in terms of investment and necessity. Key Topics Covered: Riggs's Unique Background: From sailing with L. Ron Hubbard to leading a NASDAQ-listed company, Riggs shares his journey and the lessons learned in public relations and crisis management. The OriginClear Story: Focus on how OriginClear is addressing challenges in the water treatment industry, emphasizing innovation and the shift towards decentralized water treatment solutions. Going Public and Engaging Retail Investors: Riggs discusses the strategic decisions behind taking companies public, the challenges of engaging with venture capitalists, and the benefits of direct retail investor engagement. Decentralizing Water Treatment: Exploration of how decentralizing water treatment can provide sustainable and cost-effective solutions for industries and communities, reducing reliance on municipal systems. Investment and Market Potential: Discussion on the investment opportunities in water treatment and how OriginClear is positioning itself in the market to leverage these opportunities. Listeners will gain insights into the evolving landscape of water management and treatment, understand the strategic business decisions in taking a company public, and explore the potential of water as an investment vehicle. This episode is particularly valuable for those interested in sustainability, technology, and innovative business models in the environmental sector. Prefer to listen in? View the transcripts here. Watch the full episode here. Are you REady2Scale Your Multifamily Investments? Learn more about growing your wealth, strengthening your portfolio, and scaling to the next level at www.bluelake-capital.com. To reach Ellie & her team, email them at info@bluelake-capital.com or complete our investor form at www.bluelake-capital.com/new-investor-form and they'll connect with you. Time Stamps 00:00 Unlocking Investment Opportunities for Ordinary Investors 00:25 Welcome to Ready to Scale: Exploring Water as the New Gold 01:38 Riggs Ethelberry: A Journey from the High Seas to High Tech 03:37 The Evolution of a CEO: From Nonprofit to NASDAQ 05:59 OriginClear's Mission: Revolutionizing Water Treatment 06:48 Going Public: The Challenges and Strategies 11:16 Innovating Investment: Water Properties and Profit Shares 13:43 Decentralizing Water Treatment: A New Era for Industry 16:26 The Rise of Water on Demand: A Game-Changer for Investors 20:18 Addressing the Water Crisis in Mobile Home Parks 22:28 Exploring Water Treatment Systems in Real Estate 22:55 The Economic Impact of Decentralized Water Systems 25:28 Water Recycling and Its Benefits 27:34 Introducing Water Staple Coins: A Future Business Model 32:47 Leadership Insights: Building Effective Teams 36:19 Engaging with the Audience: Lightning Round Questions Producer: Blue Lake Capital Strategist: Syed Mahmood Editor: Emma Walker Opening Music: Pomplamoose Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you wondering if passive income from real estate investments still holds up during economic downturns? In this insightful episode of REady2Scale, host Ellie Perlman explores this critical question from her HQ in California. As a seasoned investor and the founder of Blue Lake Capital, Ellie delves deeply into current market dynamics, underscoring the resilience and inflation-hedging potential of multifamily real estate. Through her expert analysis, listeners gain a sophisticated understanding of why these investments remain valuable even in challenging economic conditions. Key Insights: -Economic Context: Ellie discusses the cautious approach of investors and institutions who are now re-engaging with the real estate market after a period of waiting out uncertain economic signals, including interest rate changes by the Federal Reserve. -Historical Performance: Drawing on data from past recessions, such as the 2008 financial crisis, Ellie highlights the stable returns of multifamily properties compared to other investment types like stocks. -Inflation and Rent Dynamics: The episode covers how multifamily properties can combat inflation through regular rental increases, reflecting on the sector’s ability to adjust rents annually or biannually in line with inflation. -Investment Strategies: With a more conservative market approach prevalent today, Ellie stresses the importance of prudent underwriting and choosing fixed-rate debts over variable ones. She explains that current investments are structured with potential economic contractions in mind, making them potentially safer. -Market Selection: Ellie contrasts different U.S. markets, advising on the potential of places like the Raleigh-Durham area while cautioning against more volatile markets like San Francisco. Takeaways for Listeners: Listeners can gain an understanding of why and how passive income from multifamily investments remains viable, even in less favorable economic conditions. Ellie encourages investors to perform due diligence and not shy away from investing if they are equipped with the right knowledge and strategies. This episode is particularly valuable for accredited investors looking to make informed decisions about real estate investments amidst a fluctuating economic landscape. Ellie’s insights provide a realistic yet optimistic view of the opportunities that still exist for generating passive income through real estate. Prefer to listen in? View the transcripts here. Watch our full interview on YouTube here.  Are you REady2Scale Your Multifamily Investments? Learn more about growing your wealth, strengthening your portfolio, and scaling to the next level at www.bluelake-capital.com. To reach Ellie & her team, email them at info@bluelake-capital.com or complete our investor form at www.bluelake-capital.com/new-investor-form and they'll connect with you. Time Stamps: 00:00 The Evolution of Passive Income in Real Estate 00:51 Welcome to Ready to Scale: Navigating a Shifting Market 01:00 Is Passive Income Still Relevant in Today's Economy? 01:35 The Journey from Real Estate Attorney to Private Equity Firm Founder 02:27 Understanding the Current Real Estate Market Dynamics 05:11 The Resilience of Multifamily Investments During Economic Downturns 09:58 Strategies for Investing in Today's Real Estate Market 13:44 Evaluating Passive Income Potential in a Downturn 14:08 Investing in Multifamily Real Estate: A Hedge Against Inflation 14:49 Making Informed Investment Decisions in a Changing Market 20:59 Conclusion: The Viability of Passive Investing in a Downturn Producer: Blue Lake Capital Strategist: Syed Mahmood Editor: Emma Walker Opening Music: Pomplamoose #passiveincome #investing #realestate Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever wondered what it takes to transition from a secure job to forging your own path in the challenging world of real estate? In this episode, Jeannette interviews Tom Dunkel, Chief Investment Officer at Belrose Storage Group, who shares his journey from being laid off in 2006 to becoming a successful entrepreneur. This discussion delves into the resilience and strategic thinking necessary to navigate and excel in the competitive real estate market, particularly through the 2008 financial crisis and beyond. Listeners will gain insights into: -Entrepreneurial Mindset: Tom discusses the pivotal mindset shifts that helped him move from a secure corporate job to taking risks as an entrepreneur. -Niche Specialization: Learn how Tom found success in the self-storage sector, emphasizing the importance of specializing in niche markets to enhance business sustainability. -Overcoming Adversity: Tom shares his experiences during the 2008 financial crisis, providing valuable lessons on perseverance and strategic adaptation. -Investment Strategies: The episode explores innovative investment strategies, like distressed mortgage notes, that can yield significant returns while offering solutions to market needs. -Future Trends: Tom provides his perspective on current economic conditions and how past lessons are shaping responses to potential upcoming challenges in both residential and commercial real estate markets. This episode is a treasure trove for both seasoned and aspiring real estate investors, offering lessons on resilience, strategic investment, and the importance of innovation in finding success amidst challenges. Whether you're considering a shift towards entrepreneurship or looking to deepen your investment portfolio, Tom's journey provides both inspiration and practical advice. Prefer to listen in? View the transcripts here. Watch the full episode here. Are you REady2Scale Your Multifamily Investments? Learn more about growing your wealth, strengthening your portfolio, and scaling to the next level at www.bluelake-capital.com. To reach Ellie & her team, email them at info@bluelake-capital.com or complete our investor form at www.bluelake-capital.com/new-investor-form and they'll connect with you. Time Stamps: 00:00 The Positive Impact of Proactive Banks on Real Estate and Economy 00:17 Welcome to REady2Scale: A Fresh Start in California 01:04 Meet Tom Dunkel: From Corporate to Self-Storage Success 02:05 Tom's Journey: Embracing Entrepreneurship Against All Odds 07:00 The Shift to Real Estate: Building a New Future 09:32 The Financial Crisis: Lessons and Growth 13:11 The Power of Distressed Mortgage Notes in Real Estate 17:22 Commercial Real Estate: Predictions and Preparations 19:30 Self-Storage Investing: A Niche Within a Niche 24:55 The Appeal of Self Storage Investing 26:01 Specializing in RV and Boat Self Storage 27:28 Addressing Supply Chain Disruptions with Contractor Storage 29:30 Addressing Asset Management Challenges 29:57 Leveraging Technology for Efficiency 31:09 Advantages of Self Storage Over Traditional Real Estate 33:39 Dealing with Security Issues and Squatters 34:32 Security Measures and Handling Squatters 36:52 Advice for New Investors in Self Storage 40:42 Personal Insights and Lightning Round Questions Producer: Blue Lake Capital Strategist: Syed Mahmood Editor: Emma Walker Opening Music: Pomplamoose Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How can you confidently invest in multifamily properties during uncertain times? Join host Ellie Perlman in this episode of "REady2Scale," as she uses her extensive real estate and investment management experience to share essential strategies for evaluating market, asset, and sponsor opportunities. Tune in for actionable insights that will enhance your investment decision-making. Key Takeaways: 1. Understanding Market Dynamics: Learn how to assess markets based on population trends, economic conditions, and tenant profiles to identify promising investment opportunities or potential risks. 2. Conducting Thorough Asset Due Diligence: Discover the importance of examining property financials, understanding asset conditions, and recognizing red flags such as high bad debt or increasing vacancies that could impact investment outcomes. 3. Evaluating Investment Partners (Sponsors): Find out how to vet potential investment partners by reviewing their track records, investment philosophies, and previous deal performances to ensure alignment with your investment goals. 4. Making Informed Decisions: Gain practical tips on using available resources and tools to gather data and insights, helping you make well-informed decisions about where and how to invest. 5. Adapting to Market Changes: Ellie offers strategies on staying adaptable in fluctuating markets, including how to stress test investment assumptions and plan exit strategies to maximize returns regardless of market conditions. This episode is highly beneficial for passive investors looking to deepen their knowledge of multifamily investments, particularly those interested in the dynamics of shifting markets and how to safeguard investments against common pitfalls. Watch full YouTube video here. Read transcript here. --- Tune into "REady2Scale" for a detailed guide on thriving in the ever-changing landscape of real estate investments. Whether you're a seasoned investor or new to the field, this episode provides valuable insights into making smarter, more informed investment choices. Time stamps 00:00 Introduction to Market Due Diligence 00:40 Welcome to Ready to Scale 00:55 Navigating Market Uncertainty: A Deep Dive 03:08 Market Due Diligence: Identifying Strong and Weak Markets 05:59 Practical Tips for Market Evaluation 11:41 Asset Due Diligence in Uncertain Times 19:02 Sponsor Due Diligence: Choosing the Right Partners 21:50 Conclusion: Wrapping Up Deal Evaluation Insights Are you REady2Scale Your Multifamily Investments? Learn more about growing your wealth, strengthening your portfolio, and scaling to the next level at www.bluelake-capital.com. To reach Ellie & her team, email them at info@bluelake-capital.com or complete our investor form at www.bluelake-capital.com/new-investor-form and they'll connect with you. Producer: Blue Lake Capital Strategist: Syed Mahmood Editor: Emma Walker Opening Music: Pomplamoose #multifamily #investing #realestate Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Listen in with co-host Jeannette Friedrich and Ken Gee, a seasoned real estate private equity expert with over two decades of experience and a portfolio that includes transactions valued at over $2 billion. Ken shares his unique insights into the contrasting real estate markets of Florida and Ohio, highlighting how strategic adaptations have driven his firm’s success. Here's what you'll gain: -Market Analysis: Understand the differences and opportunities in the real estate markets of Florida and Ohio, explained through practical examples. -Investment Strategies: Discover effective strategies for real estate investment and portfolio management that have been proven successful over billions in transactions. -Challenge Management: Gain knowledge on how to navigate and overcome various real estate investment challenges, such as insurance costs and market fluctuations. -Value-Add Techniques: Learn about the potential for rent increases and property improvements that drive profitability in multifamily properties. -Investor Relations Advice: Receive actionable advice on managing investor relations and capital raising to enhance trust and investment growth. -Economic Insights: Hear discussions on current economic factors affecting real estate, such as interest rates and supply issues, and how to strategically respond. -Practical Tips: Benefit from Ken's practical advice on acquisition strategies, underwriting, and managing transient tenant bases in competitive markets. By tuning into "Ready to Scale," you're not just listening to another industry conversation; you're equipping yourself with the knowledge that could pivot your investment approach and operational tactics towards greater success. With host Jeanette Friedrich and the acumen of Ken Gee, you're privy to a masterclass in real estate's fluid landscape. From deep dives into market specifics to comprehensive strategy outlines, this episode is poised to be a turning point for the proactive listener. Make sure to join us and transform these insights into your competitive edge in the ever-evolving real estate market. Prefer to listen in? View the transcripts here. Watch full episode here. Are you REady2Scale Your Multifamily Investments? Learn more about growing your wealth, strengthening your portfolio, and scaling to the next level at www.bluelake-capital.com. To reach Ellie & her team, email them at info@bluelake-capital.com or complete our investor form at www.bluelake-capital.com/new-investor-form and they'll connect with you. #multifamily #investing #realestate 00:00 Exploring Resort Communities vs. Single Family Homes 00:33 Welcome to Ready to Scale: Meet Ken Gee 01:39 Ken Gee's Unique Real Estate Focus: Florida and Ohio 02:10 The Journey from Cleveland to Florida: A Real Estate Evolution 04:14 Navigating Challenges in the Florida Real Estate Market 06:03 The Art of Value-Add in Multifamily Properties 06:40 Investor Relations and the Impact of Insurance Costs 09:03 The Strategy Behind Blind Pool Funds and Syndication 13:44 Best Practices for Real Estate Investment and Underwriting 18:40 The Role of AI and Traditional Methods in Property Analysis 20:19 Sponsor Segment: Ready to Scale with Blue Lake Capital 21:15 Navigating Supply Challenges in Florida's Real Estate Market 24:02 The Impact of Transient Tenant Bases on Property Management 27:28 Exploring the Influence of Geopolitics on Real Estate Investments 29:42 Advice for Multifamily Investors: Navigating Market Cycles 33:14 Lightning Round: Getting Personal with Ken Producer: Blue Lake Capital Strategist: Syed Mahmood Editor: Emma Walker Opening Music: Pomplamoose Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you a passive multifamily investor seeking stable returns in an ever-changing market? Listen in to discover the essential differences between value-add deals and core-plus strategies, and gain clarity on which approach aligns best with your investment goals. Ellie navigates listeners through the complexities of rising labor costs, material expenses, and evolving rent dynamics, offering practical advice on mitigating risks and maximizing returns even in today’s environment. Key Takeaways: 1. Understanding Investment Strategies: Gain insight into the spectrum of multifamily investment opportunities, ranging from value-add deals to core assets, and the pivotal role of renovations in enhancing property value. 2. Challenges in Today's Market: Explore the impact of rising labor and material costs, as well as subdued rent growth trends post-COVID-19, prompting a critical reassessment of traditional value-add strategies. 3. Exploring Alternatives: Discover the merits of core-plus and core investments as compelling alternatives, offering lower risk profiles and steady returns amidst market uncertainties. Whether you're a seasoned investor or new to multifamily real estate, this episode offers invaluable guidance on crafting a diversified investment portfolio and adapting strategies to current market conditions. Tune in to REady2Scale and equip yourself with the knowledge and insights needed to thrive in the multifamily investment landscape. Prefer to read the episode? View the transcript here. Watch full video here. Are you REady2Scale Your Multifamily Investments? Learn more about growing your wealth, strengthening your portfolio, and scaling to the next level at www.bluelake-capital.com. To reach Ellie & her team, email them at info@bluelake-capital.com or complete our investor form at www.bluelake-capital.com/new-investor-form and they'll connect with you. #multifamily #investing #realestate Time Stamps 00:00 Introduction to Value-Add Deals and Market Dynamics 00:33 Welcome to Ready to Scale 00:44 Rethinking Value-Add Deals in a Down Market 01:47 Understanding Different Investment Strategies 06:49 Challenges and Rethinking Strategies in Today's Market 11:03 Exploring Core Plus and Core Deals as Alternatives 15:18 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Producer: Blue Lake Capital Strategist: Syed Mahmood Editor: Emma Walker Opening Music: Pomplamoose Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dive into the latest episode of REady2Scale to uncover the transformative journey of a real estate pro transitioning from residential sales to the dynamic world of private equity multifamily investments. Hosted by Jeannette Friedrich, director of investor relations at Blue Lake Capital, this episode provides a deep dive into the strategic shifts and opportunities within the real estate industry. Jeannette welcomes Craig McGrouther, Director of Business Development at Lone Star Capital, who brings a wealth of experience from his real estate background and volunteer work with Habitat for Humanity. The discussion kicks off with a lively debate on TexMex versus CaliMex cuisine, setting the stage for a conversation filled with hot takes and personal insights. Here's what you stand to gain from tuning in: 1. Career Transition: -Discover Craig's journey from a real estate agent to a key player in private equity, focusing on multifamily investments. Understand the motivations and pivotal moments that influenced his career shift. 2. Potential Implications from National Association of Realtors (NAR) Antitrust Lawsuit -Dive into a discussion about the recent settlement and pending regulatory changes affecting real estate agents, exploring the broader implications and how these might reshape the industry landscape. 3. Insights into Real Estate Strategies: -Craig shares his insights on the multiple factors impacting multifamily real estate investments, detailing strategies that range from value-add to capital raising in today's economic environment. 4. Future Predictions and Market Dynamics: -Gain Craig’s perspective on the future of the real estate market, including predictions about industry trends and the potential impact of economic factors on investment opportunities. Tune in to REady2Scale for an engaging and informative discussion that could reshape how you think about real estate and investment opportunities. Don't forget to share your thoughts and questions in the comments or reviews, and let us know which topics you'd like to hear more about in future episodes! See full YouTube video here. Prefer to read the interview? View the transcripts here. 00:00 Welcome to REady2Scale: A New Chapter in California 01:36 Introducing Craig McGrouther: From Real Estate to Private Equity 02:11 The Great TexMex vs. CaliMex Debate 04:03 Transitioning from Real Estate Agent to Private Equity 06:05 Navigating the NAR Antitrust Lawsuit in Real Estate 12:16 Investor Sentiments and Market Dynamics 19:52 Capital Raising Strategies and Market Insights 23:49 Predictions and Preparing for Economic Shifts 27:10 Lightning Round: Personal Insights and Advice 31:09 Closing Thoughts and Contact Information Are you REady2Scale Your Multifamily Investments? Learn more about growing your wealth, strengthening your portfolio, and scaling to the next level at www.bluelake-capital.com. To reach Ellie & her team, email them at info@bluelake-capital.com or complete our investor form at www.bluelake-capital.com/new-investor-form and they'll connect with you. Producer: Blue Lake Capital Strategist: Syed Mahmood Editor: Emma Walker Opening Music: Pomplamoose Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices