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Can you really make money in real estate even during economic turbulence? In this episode, Stewart Heath, CPA, talks about the necessity of maintaining a hyper-focus in real estate investing, the effects of interest rates, and the complexities of investing in office buildings. He highlights the importance of market knowledge and tenant retention within the commercial real estate field. Additionally, Stewart discusses the significance of cash-flowing investments, the value of real estate, and essential factors for accredited tech professionals interested in private placements. He also offers insights on underwriting office deals and shares valuable lessons from his investing experiences.

Learn more about Stewart:
Stewart Heath founded Harvard Grace Corporation in 2010, which has grown into Harvard Grace Capital. HG Corporation continues to offer fractional C-level executive services and general business consulting. Heath sits on multiple boards, including HGC, Winsome Truth, The Shepherd’s Call, and Second Chance Sober Living. In 2016, he was a finalist for the Nashville Business Journal’s CFO Awards and currently holds several fractional CFO positions.

With a CPA license since 1987 and a B.S. in Business Administration from Auburn University, Heath has held senior financial and operating roles in retail, real estate, manufacturing, corporate services, entertainment, and digital media. He now leads Harvard Grace Capital, aiming to provide stability for investors and engage with his community.

Reach out to Stewart: https://harvardgracecapital.com/

Episode highlights:
(0:00) Intro

(1:40) Who is Stewart and his background in real estate

(5:02) The strategy of being hyper-focused on specific markets

(9:26) The practical approach to property management

(11:32) Importance of reserves and tenant selection

(13:43) How interest rates impact real estate investments

(18:16) Making money on the buy, not the sell

(22:36) Office space subcategories and investment strategies

(32:05) Supporting community infrastructure through real estate

(42:54) Anatomy of a real estate syndication deal

(49:56) Key questions for sponsors and lessons learned

(58:39) Vision changes and the importance of cash flow in investing

(1:07:23) Outro

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For more resources and guides, check these out:

• Investor 101 https://www.aritacapital.com/investor-101-resource/#
• Due Diligence Resource https://www.aritacapital.com/dd-checklist-resource/

If you want to learn more, reach out at:

Email: steven@aritacapital.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aritasteven/

IG: https://www.instagram.com/the.real.arita

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In this episode, Steven Arita sits down with Janice Bell, an experienced real estate investor and coach, to explore the intricacies of passive investing through self-directed IRAs and HSAs. Janice shares her journey from working in the biotech industry to becoming a nationwide real estate investment coach, detailing the strategies and challenges involved in using tax-deferred accounts for real estate projects. The discussion covers essential topics such as vetting investments, understanding the capital stack, and the importance of ongoing education. Whether you're a tech professional looking to diversify your portfolio or a seasoned investor seeking new insights, this episode offers valuable advice and resources to help you navigate the world of passive investing. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in real estate investing, offering practical advice and encouragement to start building wealth through informed investment strategies.

To learn more about Janice: https://www.janicebell.me/

Episode highlights:

(0:00) Intro

(1:57) Overview of Janice Bell’s background and experience.

(3:58) Reasons why invest in real estate

(10:49) Differences between active and passive investing

(16:20) Utilizing IRAs and HSAs for real estate investments

(29:38) Equity position

(32:36) Questions that come up during conversations

(39:15) Importance of vetting investment opportunities and operators

(45:57) Advice for First time investors about asset classes

(55:41) Benefits of networking and attending meetups

(1:02:40) Final thoughts and rapid-fire questions

(1:08:31) Outro

—

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For more resources and guides, check these out:

• Investor 101 https://www.aritacapital.com/investor-101-resource/#
• Due Diligence Resource https://www.aritacapital.com/dd-checklist-resource/

If you want to learn more, reach out at:

Email: steven@aritacapital.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aritasteven/

IG: https://www.instagram.com/the.real.arita

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In this episode, we sit down with Elam King, a former member of an Amish community who transitioned into a successful real estate entrepreneur. Elam shares his unique journey, from his early life in the Amish community to his current endeavors in real estate, particularly short-term rentals. He discusses the cultural values he grew up with and how they influenced his business mindset and practices. Elam also talks about the challenges and rewards of managing short-term rentals, including his approach to overcoming obstacles and maintaining a vision that ignites people's souls. He emphasizes the importance of taking action and learning from experience, which has been pivotal in his success. Whether you're new to real estate or looking to diversify your investment portfolio, Elam's insights offer valuable lessons on resilience, strategic risk-taking, and the power of a strong vision.

Connect with Elam on facebook.com/elamzking

Episode Highlights:

(0:00) Intro

(0:47) Elam’s background and Amish history

(13:19) Amish culture and misconceptions

(19:00) Life skills learned in the Amish community

(34:26) Transitioning into short-term rentals

(40:30) First real estate purchase and experience with Airbnb

(50:00) Diversifying investments and risk factors

(56:47) Key skills for success in real estate

(58:19) Advice for new investors

(1:00:02) Outro

—

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For more resources and guides, check these out:

• Investor 101 https://www.aritacapital.com/investor-101-resource/#
• Due Diligence Resource https://www.aritacapital.com/dd-checklist-resource/

If you want to learn more, reach out at:

Email: steven@aritacapital.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aritasteven/

IG: https://www.instagram.com/the.real.arita

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In today’s episode, we are joined by Kirill Bensonoff, the co-founder and Chief Product Officer of New Silver, a fintech startup focused on hard money lending. Together, they explore the evolution of cloud computing and its impact on businesses. They talk about the initial skepticism around cloud technology and its gradual acceptance. They also discussed the role of AI and blockchain in improving efficiency and reducing costs in real estate transactions, as well as the speaker’s passion for enhancing local communities through intelligent real estate investments.

More about Kirill Bensonoff
He is an experienced American real estate investor and serial entrepreneur with multi-million dollar exits in the technology industry. He has been published or quoted in national business, real estate and technology media, including Inc., CNN, Forbes and Huffington Post, among many others.

Kirill is also the host of The Exchange With KB podcast, in which he interviews prominent founders and business leaders. The podcast is focused on quick actionable takeaways from leaders in technology, entrepreneurship, venture capital, trading, real estate, blockchain, and investing.

Reach out:
Website: https://newsilver.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prankstr25/


Episode highlights:
(0:00) Intro
(1:23) Who is Kirill
(5:43) Early adoption of AWS and cloud computing
(8:01) Introduction to NewSilver and its pricing engine
(14:00) Impact of COVID-19 on business operations
(17:35) NewSilver's business model and loan process
(22:28) Role of AI in real estate and business operations
(32:58) Importance of technology in improving real estate transactions
(36:27) Trends and opportunities in real estate investing
(45:27) Focus and efficiency in leveraging tech tools
(47:23) Outro

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• Investor 101 https://www.aritacapital.com/investor-101-resource/#
• Due Diligence Resource https://www.aritacapital.com/dd-checklist-resource/

If you want to learn more, reach out at:

Email: steven@aritacapital.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aritasteven/

IG: https://www.instagram.com/the.real.arita

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In this podcast episode, Stephen interviews an experienced tech professional who transitioned into the real estate industry. Michael Parks shares his mission of helping people find their path to wealth, emphasizing the importance of managing personal finances and investing wisely. He talks about his journey, starting with hair salons and vacation rentals, and how he learned the value of multifamily properties over single-family homes for better returns and forced appreciation. The conversation highlights the differences between single-family and multifamily investments, the importance of cash flow, and the benefits of diversifying investments beyond the stock market. Michael also touches on the flexibility and control that real estate investments offer, making them a valuable part of a diversified portfolio for tech professionals.

More about Michael
Michael’s mission is to guide busy professionals towards wealth through the Navigator Wealth Fund, helping them diversify their portfolios with high-quality real estate and private money loans for a secure retirement. Michael is a project manager and operator with over ten years in real estate investing. He is a co-pilot for clients navigating private placements and real estate diversification. Michael has managed $30B in assets for REITs, including hotels, commercial offices, logistics, and senior living. He is also a licensed real estate salesperson in Massachusetts and a certified Project Management Professional.

Reach out:
Website: https://navwf.com/
Linkedin.com/in/michaelthomasparks
Facebook: @MichaelParksRealEstate

Episode highlights:
(0:00) Intro
(1:21) Getting to know Michael Parks
(10:10) Transition to multifamily properties
(14:36) Benefits of multifamily investments
(17:52) Diversifying investments and the value of real estate
(22:29) Real estate as a part of a modern portfolio
(27:59) Advice in picking investments
(31:39) Benefits of self-directed IRAs
(34:21) Beating the 4% rule and retirement strategies
(38:01) Evaluating private money lending opportunities
(45:15) Is it a good time to invest? And the risks of not investing and the cost of inaction
(51:50) Transitioning from tech to investing
(1:01:16) Outro

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For more resources and guides, check these out:

• Investor 101 https://www.aritacapital.com/investor-101-resource/#
• Due Diligence Resource https://www.aritacapital.com/dd-checklist-resource/

If you want to learn more, reach out at:

Email: steven@aritacapital.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aritasteven/

IG: https://www.instagram.com/the.real.arita

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In this episode, we chat with Shan Barton, a seasoned real estate investor, about his journey from owning single-family rentals to managing mobile home parks. We explore the world of mobile home parks and their unique dynamics. Shan recounts his initial steps in real estate investing, starting with renting out his primary home and realizing the steady cash flow it provided despite high mortgage rates at the time. He also dives into the significant advantages of investing in mobile home parks, such as better cash flow and ease of management compared to multifamily properties. Shan also offers practical advice on acquiring mobile home parks, emphasizing the roles of brokers and direct seller relationships. If you’re currently in multifamily properties and are interested in mobile home parks, this episode is perfect for you.

Connect with Shan:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/shan-barton-688a4a134/

Episode highlights:

(0:00) Intro

(1:14) Introducing Shan Barton

(3:00) Shan Barton's background and first rental property experience

(7:17) Comparing cash flow: Mobile home parks vs. multifamily

(15:50) Importance of knowing your numbers

(18:02) Acquiring mobile home parks

(22:43) All about mobile home park operations

(26:44) Property management responsibilities

(29:21) Differences between RV and mobile home parks

(33:29) Importance of exit strategies

(39:36) Investment appeal of mobile home parks

(51:21) Outro

—

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For more resources and guides, check these out:

• Investor 101 https://www.aritacapital.com/investor-101-resource/#
• Due Diligence Resource https://www.aritacapital.com/dd-checklist-resource/

If you want to learn more, reach out at:

Email: steven@aritacapital.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aritasteven/

IG: https://www.instagram.com/the.real.arita

Send us a Text Message.

In this episode, Steven Arita talks to George Salas, a dynamic real estate investor, who tells an inspiring story. George shares his humble beginnings, growing up in an adobe house in a small town and moving to the U.S. at 15. He reflects on his journey from working in hospitality and event promotions to losing his savings in a failed business venture. Despite these challenges, George's determination led him to discover real estate. He recounts how a friend's intervention and a powerful seminar ignited his passion for real estate, leading him to study diligently and eventually succeed in wholesaling, fixing and flipping, and rental. George explains his shift to owning high-performing short-term rental properties and how he pivoted during the pandemic. He discusses the importance of mentorship, personal development, and strategic thinking in his success. Now, George and his wife are scaling their business through syndications and a private equity fund, continually pushing their limits and setting higher goals.

George Salas is the CEO of Empress Capital, leading a team specializing in acquiring, renovating, and managing high-demand vacation rental properties across the US. With over five years in real estate, he previously led Renovestors, LLC and Houston Home Fixers, closing high-equity deals and mentoring aspiring entrepreneurs. His passion lies in achieving financial freedom for himself and others through real estate, enjoying soccer, family time, and trips to Peru when not working.

Reach out to Collin:
https://georgesalas360.com/

IG: https://www.instagram.com/georgesalas360/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgesalas360/

Episode Highlights:

(3:37) George discusses his childhood and early life in the U.S. and his first major investment failure

(11:43) Impact of COVID-19 on George's rental business and his pivot to high-end short-term rentals

(16:40) Learning about syndications and scaling the business

(25:05) Diving deeper into process, purpose, and learning

(34:39) Operational cycle vs. Personal cycle

(40:35) The power of connection

(47:43) Exit strategy and selling to institutional buyers

(51:33) George’s ideal investors

(54:30) Outro

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For more resources and guides, check these out:

• Investor 101 https://www.aritacapital.com/investor-101-resource/#
• Due Diligence Resource https://www.aritacapital.com/dd-checklist-resource/

If you want to learn more, reach out at:

Email: steven@aritacapital.com

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This is part 2 of my conversation with Collin Taylor. In this episode, we discuss wealth-building strategies for tech professionals through commercial real estate. They continue their discussion about self-directed IRAs (SDIRAs), specifically addressing what they are and their benefits. They discuss how SDIRAs give investors more control over their retirement savings by allowing investments in alternative assets like real estate, cryptocurrency, and more.

They also introduce HSAs (Health Savings Accounts) and their unique tax advantages, emphasizing how HSAs can be used to grow wealth through investments while benefiting from tax deductions on both contributions and withdrawals used for qualified medical expenses. Finally, the conversation touches on ESAs (Education Savings Accounts), which help parents save for their children’s education from kindergarten through college. This episode is packed with practical advice for leveraging various financial accounts to maximize investment opportunities and achieve financial freedom.

Important Link:

Quest Expo - https://www.questtrustcompany.com/resources/quest-expo

Listen to Part 1 of my conversation with Collin:
#34 - Unlocking the Secrets of Self-Directed IRAs With Collin Taylor - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2247837/episodes/15003051

Reach out to Collin:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/collin-taylor-7b2176176/

Email: collintaylor@questtrust.com

Web: https://www.questtrustcompany.com/

Episode Highlights:

(1:41) Diving deeper into SDRIAs

(4:02) Explanation of UBIT and UDFI

(12:54) Collin's role at Quest and how they help clients

(14:22) Introduction to HSAs, their tax benefits, and strategies for growing HSAs through investments

(24:10) Introduction to ESAs and their benefits for educational savings

(30:58) Advantages of partnering in investments

(32:36) Using HSAs and ESAs for family financial planning

(38:35) Tailoring strategies based on personal goals

(47:23) Upcoming Quest Expo information

(49:12) Outro

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For more resources and guides, check these out:

• Investor 101 https://www.aritacapital.com/investor-101-resource/#
• Due Diligence Resource https://www.aritacapital.com/dd-checklist-resource/

If you want to learn more, reach out at:

Email: steven@aritacapital.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aritasteven/

IG: https://www.instagram.com/the.real.arita