Best Real Estate Investing Advice Ever With Joe Fairless

On this episode of Beyond Multifamily, Amanda Cruise interviews Tom Dunkel, managing principal at Eagle Capital Investments and longtime real estate investor. Tom shares how getting fired in 2006 launched his journey into real estate, including hard lessons learned in the residential space and eventual success with self-storage, distressed debt, and private lending. He explains why he transitioned into a fund-of-funds model, driven by lifestyle goals, and breaks down his SAFE investing method: Sponsor, Asset, Financials, and Exit. Tom also dives into why he prefers private lending in today’s uncertain market and how passive investors can better vet fund managers. Tom Dunkel Current Role: Founder of Eagle Capital Investments and Managing Partner at Bellrose Asset Management Based in: Pennsylvania Say hi to them at: https://investwitheagle.com | https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomdunkel/ Get a 4-week trial, free postage, and a digital scale at ⁠https://www.stamps.com/cre⁠. Thanks to Stamps.

On this episode of Best Ever CRE, Joe Cornwell interviews Jeff Ervick. Jeff shares how he scaled from single-family rentals in Maryland to co-founding a firm with over $200M in assets across multifamily, ground-up development, and private credit. He discusses how he balances a successful W2 tech sales career while managing investor relations, fundraising, and strategic partnerships at Valoris. Jeff also dives into their development strategy in Florida, their pivot away from heavy value-adds, and how they underwrite deals to hedge against construction risk, including tax abatements like Florida’s Live Local Act. Jeff Ervick Current Role: Managing Partner, Investor Relations Based in: Annapolis, Maryland Say hi to them at: Website: https://www.valoriscapitalpartners.com/ LinkedIn: Jeff Ervick Get a 4-week trial, free postage, and a digital scale at ⁠https://www.stamps.com/cre⁠. Thanks to Stamps.com for sponsoring the show! Post your job for free at https://www.linkedin.com

On this episode of Unlimited Capital, Chris Lopez interviews Marisa Amirian, a tech industry veteran turned capital raising systems expert. Marisa shares how her background in tech led her to build a niche helping capital raisers streamline investor communication and build scalable CRM systems. She emphasizes the importance of “always be capital raising,” nurturing investor relationships well before a deal is on the table, and tracking engagement to prioritize follow-up. The conversation dives deep into email marketing strategies, list segmentation, lead scoring, automation dos and don’ts, and how the most successful capital raisers prioritize phone calls and conversations over metrics and dashboards. Marisa Amirian Current Role: Founder of Capbloom, a tech platform and service provider for capital raisers Say hi to them at: LinkedIn: Marisa Amirian Website: www.capbloom.com | https://www.linkedin.com/in/marisaamirian/ Get a 4-week trial, free postage, and a digital sca

On this episode of The Horizon, John discusses a potential game-changing executive order from President Trump that could allow U.S. retirement accounts like 401(k)s to invest in private market assets, including commercial real estate. He explores how this influx of capital could significantly reshape cap rates—not because of interest rates, but due to shifts in capital flows. Using historical data, John challenges the commonly held belief that cap rates track closely with interest rates, demonstrating instead that transaction volume and investor demand play a much stronger role. He concludes by urging investors to consider positioning themselves ahead of a possible capital wave that could drive property values higher. Get a 4-week trial, free postage, and a digital scale at ⁠https://www.stamps.com/cre⁠. Thanks to Stamps.com for sponsoring the show! Post your job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/BRE. Terms and conditions apply. Join the Best Ever Community  The Best Ever Community is live and g

On this episode of Multifamily Mastery, John Casmon dives deep into the critical role markets play in multifamily investing. He shares his personal journey of starting in Chicago and progressively identifying better opportunities by understanding the “path of progress.” John breaks down key criteria for evaluating new markets—like population growth, job diversity, infrastructure development, and net absorption rates—and explains why investors should start with their backyard before expanding outward. He also explores his experiences investing in cities like Cincinnati, Louisville, and San Antonio, and emphasizes the importance of local economic commitment and sustainable growth for long-term success. Get a 4-week trial, free postage, and a digital scale at ⁠https://www.stamps.com/cre⁠. Thanks to Stamps.com for sponsoring the show! Post your job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/BRE. Terms and conditions apply. Join the Best Ever Community  The Best Ever Community is live and growing - and we wan

On this episode of Next Level CRE, Matt Faircloth interviews Ian Djuric, founder of Blake Capital Group, to unpack his journey from door-to-door trash sales to managing $2.2 billion in diversified real estate assets. Ian shares how he transitioned from a successful exit in the waste management industry into real estate by initially LPing into deals, then fully funding and running his own. He dives deep into the economics of multifamily renovations, why car washes are his new cashflow darling, and how he sources off-market industrial and hotel assets through strategic partnerships. The conversation also unpacks the hard truths and advantages of raising capital from both institutional and family office investors—and how asking investors what they actually want has been a key to his continued growth. Guest: Ian Djuric Current role: Founder & CEO, Blake Capital Group Based in: Florida Say hi to them at: ian@blakecapitalgroup.com or rob@blakecapitalgroup.com Get a 4-week trial, free posta

On this episode of the Passive Income Playbook, Pascal Wagner interviews Chris Miles, founder of Money Ripples and a former financial advisor who now teaches financial freedom through alternative investing and infinite banking. Chris shares his journey from traditional advisor to financially independent investor—twice—after losing it all in the 2008 crash. He discusses his transition from active real estate to LP investing, his diversification across asset classes like oil and gas, raw land, and multifamily, and why he values control, liquidity, and low liability as a passive investor. The episode also dives into Chris’s unique take on infinite banking, including how he optimizes whole life insurance policies for tax-free returns and cash flow flexibility. Chris Miles Current Role: Founder of Money Ripples Based in: Utah Say hi to them at: moneyripples.com, or on social @moneyripples Get a 4-week trial, free postage, and a digital scale at ⁠https://www.stamps.com/cre⁠. Thanks to St

On this episode of Beyond Multifamily, Amanda Cruise and Ash Patel interview Derek Petersen, a former civil engineer turned real estate developer focused on adding value through Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) in San Diego. Derek shares how he transforms garages, carports, and storage spaces into high-demand micro-apartments near SDSU, maximizing returns by building for under $100K and renting for $1,500–$2,000/month. He dives into the nuances of California's ministerial approval process, lending strategies, and how compounding capital—even through operational cash flow—drives his long-term wealth strategy. The episode also explores Derek's candid lessons from a challenging Lexington multifamily deal and his views on financial freedom and the psychological barriers many face in pursuing it. Derek Petersen Current Role: Founder of Aviara Capital Investments, real estate investor and developer specializing in ADU conversions Based in: San Diego, California Say hi to them at: derek@AviaraCap

On this episode of Best Ever CRE, Joe Cornwell interviews Fuquan Bilal, CEO of NNG Capital Fund. Fuquan shares insights from his 26-year journey in real estate, including his evolution from fix-and-flips to note investing, and now managing a hybrid fund focused on multifamily in the Southeast and luxury spec homes in New Jersey. He details his survival through the 2008 financial crisis, the strategic shift into second-lien note purchases, and his move into ground-up construction to reduce risk and increase control. Fuquan also explains his fund model, emphasizing diversified cash flow, operational efficiency, and long-term investor relationships over traditional syndication. Fuquan Bilal Current role: CEO, NNG Capital Fund Based in: Newark, New Jersey Say hi to them at: nngcapitalfund.com or on social media @FuquanBilal Get a 4-week trial, free postage, and a digital scale at ⁠https://www.stamps.com/cre⁠. Thanks to Stamps.com for sponsoring the show! Post your job for free at https

On this episode of Unlimited Capital, Richard McGirr interviews Pascal Wagner, a capital allocator and educator who shares his journey from managing his family's wealth to becoming a guide for W-2 professionals seeking passive income through alternative investments. Pascal discusses the evolution of his investment strategy, from room-by-room single-family rentals to building diversified income streams through vetted funds. The conversation dives into investor psychology, the true appeal of cash flow vs. equity growth, and how fund-of-funds managers can position themselves as trusted advisors by speaking directly to a well-defined avatar. Pascal also offers tactical insights into LinkedIn marketing, deal flow generation, and building community through storytelling. Pascal Wagner Current role: Founder of Grow Your Cashflow, fund manager, and educator for passive investors Based in: Miami, Florida Say hi to them at: Website: growyourcashflow.io Free Starter Kit: passiveinvestingst

On this episode of The Horizon, John discusses the long-term implications of the newly passed U.S. tax law and its impact on commercial real estate. He highlights the permanence of key provisions like accelerated depreciation, Opportunity Zones, and LIHTC expansions, explaining how they open the door for long-term investment strategies and development models. John also breaks down the potential inflationary effects of tariffs—particularly on construction materials—and how that could influence interest rates and Federal Reserve policy. He closes with insights on job market data, noting mixed signals beneath the headline unemployment rate and suggesting caution ahead. Get a 4-week trial, free postage, and a digital scale at ⁠https://www.stamps.com/cre⁠. Thanks to Stamps.com for sponsoring the show! Post your job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/BRE. Terms and conditions apply. Join the Best Ever Community  The Best Ever Community is live and growing - and we want serious commercial real estate i

On this episode of Multifamily Mastery, John Casmon interviews Matthew Teifke, a Texas-based real estate entrepreneur with over 16 years of experience who began his journey inspired by his single mother’s rental property portfolio. Matthew shares why he believes this is the best buying environment he’s seen, citing motivated sellers impacted by 2020–2021-era debt structures and the unique opportunity to acquire properties below market value. He explains how assuming attractive existing loans creates high cash flow opportunities with less equity required and details his focus on San Antonio and Austin as long-term growth markets. Matthew also emphasizes the importance of playing the long game, building real relationships, and adapting investment strategies to market conditions. Matthew Teifke Current Role: Co-Founder at TR3 Capital and Founder of TRE (Teifke Real Estate) Based in: Austin, Texas Say hi to them at:

On this episode of Next Level CRE, Matt Faircloth interviews Hait Patel about the hotel asset class—what makes it both a lucrative and overlooked opportunity for real estate investors. Hait shares his personal story of growing up in a motel his parents operated and how that hands-on experience shaped his career. The two compare multifamily to hotel investing, exploring everything from RevPAR and PIP requirements to team culture and operational intensity. They also discuss the potential for cash flow and long-term returns in the limited-service hotel sector, as well as red and green flags when underwriting a hotel deal. Hait Patel Current role: Acquisitions & Underwriting Specialist at DeRosa Group Based in: Minnesota Say hi to them at: LinkedIn Get a 4-week trial, free postage, and a digital scale at ⁠https://www.stamps.com/cre⁠. Thanks to Stamps.com for sponsoring the show! Post your job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/BRE. Terms and conditions apply. Join the Best Eve

On this episode of the Passive Income Playbook, Pascal Wagner interviews Marc Kuhn, founder of MAK Construction, MAK Capital. Marc shares how he leveraged personal branding and social media to raise capital and scale his businesses in the niche of luxury self-storage. He explains what makes this asset class distinct—from its climate-controlled, premium features to its appeal for small business owners and high-end tenants. Marc also outlines how he reverse-engineers his developments based on feedback from institutional buyers, his LP communication process, and why transparency and strong operator-investor fit are crucial. Marc Kuhn Current Role: Founder of MAC Construction and MAK Capital Based in: North Dakota Say hi to them at: LinkedIn or www.makcapitalgf.com Get a 4-week trial, free postage, and a digital scale at ⁠https://www.stamps.com/cre⁠. Thanks to Stamps.com for sponsoring the show! Post your job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/BRE. Terms and conditions apply.

On this episode of Beyond Multifamily, Amanda Cruise and Ash Patel interview Sarah Miskelly, a Canadian fund manager living in Costa Rica who places capital into diverse real estate and alternative asset opportunities. Sarah shares her background growing up in real estate, how she transitioned into fund management, and the strict due diligence she performs on behalf of investors. The conversation dives deep into red flags in multifamily syndication, the pitfalls of disguised capital calls, and her exploration of newer asset classes like triple net medical deals and oil & gas funds. The hosts and Sarah also discuss ethics in capital raising, authenticity on LinkedIn, and how to spot shady fund managers. Sarah Miskelly Current Role: Fund Manager placing capital into real estate and alternative asset opportunities Based in: Costa Rica Say hi to her at: LinkedIn Get a 4-week trial, free postage, and a digital scale at ⁠https://www.stamps.com/cre⁠. Thanks to Stamps.com for sponsoring t

On this episode of Best Ever CRE, Joe Cornwell interviews Jennifer Ruelens, founder of One Focus Property Management and Hold It With Jen PM, a property management company based in North Central Pennsylvania. Jennifer shares her journey from leasing agent to managing over 700 doors, and explains why she’s passionate about elevating property management standards—especially in rural markets underserved by traditional professionals. She and Joe dig into the common pitfalls of property managers, the challenges of scaling a PM business, and how good management bridges the gap between tenant needs and investor returns. Jennifer also offers actionable advice for investors looking to vet and hire reliable property managers in unfamiliar markets. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Unlimited Capital, Chris Lopez and Richard McGirr interview Justin Freishtat, a capital raiser and branding expert who shares insights into his evolution as a syndicator, from chasing returns to prioritizing liquidity and downside protection. Justin breaks down his approach to structuring deals, including the use of customizable fund vehicles for both equity and debt investors, and explains how investor preferences drive his fund offerings. The conversation then dives deep into Justin’s marketing strategy, where he contrasts the scalability of ad-driven sales teams with his preference for personal brand building through podcast appearances and influencer partnerships. He also shares tactical advice on growing a social media presence for credibility and capital raising, especially leveraging Instagram as a modern business card. Justin Freishtat Current role: Capital raiser, partner at Kerns Marketing, board member of SafeSpace Say hi to them at: @justinfreishtat on Instagram

On this episode of The Horizon, John Chang discusses the current trajectory of interest rates, the outlook on inflation, and the uncertain effects of tariffs and political influence on the Federal Reserve. He explores how treasury issuance and trade policies are shaping rate expectations, especially amid political pressure and global economic shifts. John also evaluates the U.S. job market's softening signals, growing layoffs, and how uncertainty is likely to rise again depending on post-July 9 tariff decisions. He ends by offering a forward-looking perspective on commercial real estate sectors—favoring demographic-driven investments like medical office, multifamily, and self-storage—while noting potential opportunities and risks in office, retail, and industrial assets. Get a 4-week trial, free postage, and a digital scale at ⁠https://www.stamps.com/cre⁠. Thanks to Stamps.com for sponsoring the show! Post your job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/BRE. Terms and conditions apply. Join the Best

On this episode of Multifamily Mastery, John Casmon interviews Paul Kaseburg, Chief Investment Officer at MG Properties. Paul shares insights into managing a 32,000-unit portfolio across the Western U.S., emphasizing the importance of vertical integration, legislative compliance, and proactive risk management. He details how MG navigates current challenges such as oversupply in multifamily housing, using a value-driven acquisition strategy that balances core-plus and value-add opportunities. Paul also discusses the firm’s centralized operational strategies, measured use of AI tools, and the enduring power of company culture and long-term investment planning. Paul Kaseburg Current role: Chief Investment Officer at MG Properties Say hi to them at: mgproperties.com Get a 4-week trial, free postage, and a digital scale at ⁠https://www.stamps.com/cre⁠. Thanks to Stamps.com for sponsoring the show! Post your job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/BRE. Terms and conditions apply. Join

On this episode of Next Level CRE, Matt Faircloth interviews Whitney Elkins-Hutten from PassiveInvesting.com. They dive into investor education and the importance of understanding the full investment journey, especially in today’s market. Whitney explains how PassiveInvesting.com is diversifying through debt funds, multifamily, self-storage, and the booming express car wash business, emphasizing cash flow and depreciation advantages. The conversation also touches on evolving SEC regulations, the role of AI in real estate transactions, and strategies for preparing investors for different market conditions. Whitney Elkins-Hutten Current role: Director of Investor Education at PassiveInvesting.com Based in: Colorado Say hi to them at: passiveinvestingwithwhitney.com Get a 4-week trial, free postage, and a digital scale at ⁠https://www.stamps.com/cre⁠. Thanks to Stamps.com for sponsoring the show! Post your job for free at https://www.linkedin.com/BRE. Terms and conditions apply.