From Bigger Pockets to a Better Life with Brandon Turner

From Bigger Pockets to a Better Life with Brandon Turner

Join us as we dive into the incredible journey of real estate investor and podcaster Brandon Turner. Discover how he went from buying a deal a year to building a portfolio of over 13,000 units, and learn the strategies and mindset shifts that fueled his remarkable success.

Table of Contents

• Brandon's Entrepreneurial Awakening
• Surrounding Yourself with the Right People
• Blowing Past a 1,000-Unit Goal
• Why Mobile Home Parks?
• Avoiding Problematic States and Markets
• Transitioning from Biggerpockets to The Better Life Podcast
• The Importance of In-Person Podcasting
• The Devastating Lahaina Fire and its Impact
• Redefining Success: Prioritizing Family and Happiness
• Ttance of Adaptable Goals
• Lessons Learned from Leaving Biggerpockets
• Educating Children on Alternative Paths in Life

Brandon's Entrepreneurial Awakening

It all started with a realization at Joe Ferrellus' best ever conference in Denver. Surrounded by successful real estate investors, I came face to face with my untapped potential. I was only buying a deal a year, barely scratching the surface of what I could achieve. It hit me that I could build a big business, have a team, and aim for something much bigger.

Surrounding Yourself with the Right People

Surrounding yourself with successful and motivated individuals can have a profound impact on your own success. When I started associating with people who were achieving greater real estate volume, I began to see new possibilities and opportunities for growth. Through engaging with the BiggerPockets podcast and interacting with accomplished investors like Grant Cardone and Chris Clothier, I gained valuable insights into scaling businesses and leveraging resources effectively.

Learning from Successful Individuals

• Observing individuals who were handling significantly larger real estate portfolios than mine helped me realize that scalability doesn't necessarily equate to working more hours.
• Engaging with people accomplishing substantial deals highlighted the importance of strategic delegation and building efficient teams.
• Witnessing others achieve exponential growth while working fewer hours shifted my perspective on the relationship between effort and success.

The Power of Association

By surrounding myself with ambitious and accomplished individuals, I was able to challenge my own limitations and expand my vision of what was achievable. This environment of success and ambition propelled me to surpass my initial goals and achieve remarkable growth in a relatively short period.

Blowing Past a 1,000-Unit Goal

After making the decision to go all in on mobile home park investing, I set a goal to acquire 1,000 units within a year. This ambitious target pushed me to take massive action and think outside the box to achieve rapid growth.

Strategic Acquisition Tactics

• Implementing creative financing strategies enabled me to acquire properties with minimal capital and maximize returns.
• Utilizing innovative negotiation techniques allowed me to secure deals that surpassed my initial expectations.
• Forming strategic partnerships and leveraging my network played a pivotal role in rapidly scaling my portfolio.

Building a High-Performing Team

Assembling a dedicated and skilled team was crucial in managing a large number of properties effectively and ensuring seamless operations. By delegating responsibilities and empowering my team, we were able to surpass the 1,000-unit milestone with remarkable efficiency.

Why Mobile Home Parks?

Investing in mobile home parks offers unique advantages and opportunities that make it an appealing venture for real estate investors. The following factors highlight the reasons behind the strategic choice of mobile home park investments:

Scalability and Efficiency

• Mobile home park investments provide the potential for rapid scalability and efficient management, allowing investors to oversee a large number of units with relative ease.
• Operating larger properties can often be more streamlined and manageable, leveraging economies of scale to maximize returns and minimize operational complexities.
• With the ability to oversee numerous units within a single property, mobile home park investments offer a compelling avenue for achieving substantial growth and profitability.

Strategic Property Selection

• Choosing mobile home parks in areas with favorable population demographics and strong tenant demand can significantly enhance occupancy rates and overall investment performance.
• Avoiding properties with potential challenges such as septic tanks and unfavorable landlord regulations in certain states can mitigate operational hurdles and optimize investment outcomes.
• Focusing on larger mobile home park properties in well-populated areas can offer a more favorable investment landscape, facilitating improved tenant acquisition and retention.

Avoiding Problematic States and Markets

When it comes to real estate investments, avoiding problematic states and markets is crucial for maintaining a streamlined and efficient portfolio. By steering clear of regions with challenging regulations and governmental barriers, investors can mitigate operational hurdles and optimize their investment outcomes.

Strategic Market Selection

• Choosing markets with favorable landlord regulations and supportive governmental policies can facilitate smoother property management and tenant relations.
• Avoiding states with stringent eviction processes and prolonged legal procedures can help investors steer clear of potential challenges associated with tenant disputes and occupancy issues.
• Focusing on markets with a proactive approach to low-income housing support and tenant rights can create a more conducive environment for sustainable and profitable real estate investments.

Transitioning from Biggerpockets to The Better Life Podcast

After my nine-year stint with the BiggerPockets podcast, I made the decision to transition to The Better Life podcast. This shift was driven by my entrepreneurial spirit and the desire to have autonomy over my schedule and endeavors. While BiggerPockets was an invaluable experience, I craved the freedom to chart my own course and explore new opportunities.

Embracing Entrepreneurial Independence

As an entrepreneur at heart, I value the ability to own my time, schedule, and business ventures. The decision to leave BiggerPockets stemmed from my desire to have full ownership and control over my podcasting journey, aligning with my personal and professional aspirations.

The Birth of The Better Life Podcast

The inception of The Better Life podcast was inspired by a song created by my friends, Derek and Mark. Their music, coupled with my ambition to expand beyond real estate, fueled the creation of a platform that delves into a diverse range of topics and interviews. This transition allowed me to broaden my scope and connect with a wider audience while still maintaining a strong focus on real estate.

The Importance of In-Person Podcasting

When it comes to podcasting, the dynamics of in-person recording can significantly enhance the overall experience for both hosts and guests. The physical presence creates a heightened sense of importance and accountability, leading to more profound and authentic conversations.

The Devastating Lahaina Fire and its Impact

The Lahaina fire had a devastating impact on the town, resulting in the loss of numerous businesses and homes. The aftermath of the fire left a significant void in the community, with many individuals and families grappling with the repercussions of the destructive blaze.

The Heartbreaking Toll

The fire claimed the lives of approximately 100 people, a tragedy that has deeply affected the entire community. While the outcome was better than initially feared, the loss of lives and the destruction of the town's downtown area remains a poignant reminder of the catastrophic event.

Navigating the Aftermath

• Despite the devastation, the resilience and unity of the community have been evident as individuals come together to support one another and rebuild what was lost.
• Efforts to address the aftermath of the fire have been ongoing, with individuals and organizations collaborating to provide aid and assistance to those affected by the disaster.
• The impact of the Lahaina fire serves as a stark reminder of the importance of preparedness and community support in the face of natural disasters.

Redefining Success: Prioritizing Family and Happiness

As I continue to navigate through the complexities of business and life, my perspective on success has undergone a significant transformation. While ambitious goals and professional achievements have always been integral to my journey, the paramount importance of family and personal happiness has become increasingly evident.

Embracing Familial Priorities

Amidst the pursuit of entrepreneurial endeavors and professional growth, the invaluable role of family has emerged as a cornerstone of my priorities. The joy and fulfillment derived from spending quality time with my wife and children have become non-negotiable aspects of my life, shaping my decisions and actions in profound ways.

Reevaluating Work-Life Dynamics

Recognizing the perpetual balancing act between work and personal life, I have adop

Done For You Dispositions with Paul Wakim, Founder of TwnSqr

Today's Guest: Paul Wakim

Paul is the co-founder of TwnSqr, a real estate technology startup devoted to breaking down the barriers of the real estate industry by providing homeowners and real estate professionals full control over the connections they make for their next real estate transaction. Paul started TwnSqr as a project to create an algorithm to predict who was going to sell their house next so he could buy more deals. Today, TwnSqr has reimagined how the real estate process works for buyers, sellers, agents, and investors, and it’s the most secure and fastest way to connect with the best person for your next real estate transaction on your own terms.

Highlights From The Show:

We begin the episode with Paul sharing the evolution of TwnSqr since its inception right before COVID and how it currently works. Paul details how it has changed from being a real estate tool to a service that is one aspect of a real estate investor’s process. 

Paul detailed a new program that they just launched called TwnSqr Enterprise that caters to investors that have a significant amount of properties to sell to form a direct integration with their Boost service, or their dispositions marketing service. Paul also gives a ton of credit to his partner Mitch that does most of the coding, and who he says is brilliant. Some customizations occur for each individual client, so Paul details this process.

I asked Paul to describe their avatar, or ideal client, and also to describe how the pricing works for their service. It is a monthly subscription service, but Paul goes into detail on how it actually works. He also goes into the integration of AI into their services.

This was a super detailed interview where I asked a lot of nitty-gritty kinds of questions so you want don’t miss another amazing episode of the Just Start Real Estate Podcast with Paul Wakim and get valuable information on how to unlock the potential of your dispositions process with TwnSqr!

Notable Quotes:

“All TwnSqr is as of August 7th is a way for you to interface your existing systems and processes, your CRM, with our Boost service. There is no more seller-facing aspect to the platform.”

• Paul Wakim

“We have simplified things quite a bit to just being a plug-in for your CRM with the sole purpose of getting you interest in the properties that you have for sale.”

• Paul Wakim

“Any investor that has at least two properties to sell per month is our target market.”

• Paul Wakim

“You are using the existing client’s buyers list in addition to going out and getting more people to opt into TwnSqr to maximize who is seeing the properties - more eyeballs.”

• Mike Simmons

“Tell me why I would want to utilize your done-for-you service when I already have a fully operational, successful, talented dispositions team and/or person and/or process. Like why would I hand over the reins to something that is working really well?”

• Mike Simmons

“We found out not only was that sales pitch incorrect but also the execution was incorrect.”

• Paul Wakim

“It is worth combining your existing systems and processes with our boosting system because it is a supplement - it is like a turbocharger for an engine.”

• Paul Wakim

“Once the integration is built, we are off to the races together.”

• Paul Wakim

“Simplicity is where the actual value is.”

• Paul Wakim

“Simple is scalable.”

• Mike Simmons

“TwnSqr today is as bad as it is ever going to get. It is only going to get better.”

• Paul Wakim

Thank You for Listening!

• Connect with Mike on Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, Linkedin, Facebook

Help Out the Show:

• Leave an honest review on iTunes. Your ratings and reviews really help, and I read each one.
• Subscribe on iTunes.

Resources and Links From Today's Show:

Mike’s Email

TwnSqr

Paul Email 

Paul on LinkedIn

Paul on Instagram

Paul on Twitter 

Paul on Youtube

More Resources From Mike:

• Level Jumping: How I Grew My Business to Over $1 Million in Profits in 12 Months
• WINNING DIRECT MAIL - How to CRUSH IT with direct mail!

From Military Mom to Full-Time Real Estate Investor Helping Other Military Members Build Wealth with Erin Helle

Today's Guest: Erin Helle

In this episode, I interview fellow real estate investor and return guest, Erin Helle. Erin begins by giving us her background and what brought her to real estate investing. She began her career in the military, first attending West Point Academy and then serving on active duty. Because her husband was also in the service, they knew that both of them being on active duty would be short-lived as they planned to start a family. She resigned her commission after about eight years of active duty and she began to explore real estate as a way to earn an income and be present for her family.

Highlights From The Show:

We go back over Erin’s story because it is so inspirational! Her business has just exploded since we last talked on the podcast in 2020. We discuss all of the different types of investing she is involved in and the various markets, as well. She related that she has invested in short-term rentals, but doesn’t like it as an investment model because it isn’t passive at all. 

We then talk about the event that Erin is hosting called Financial Freedom Summit. It is being held at the Wynn Las Vegas on September 2nd & 3rd, 2023. It is an exclusive event to inspire personal, professional, and financial development. Military veteran leaders in the real estate investing industry will guide the participants to build their blueprint for total financial freedom. But Erin wanted me to understand that it was the community of veterans that gave her the courage to get started in real estate investing, which is why she decided to give back to veterans through her summit. Erin went over the different topics, speakers, and breakout sessions that will happen throughout the weekend. Erin also detailed how some of the sponsors backing the event are providing scholarships to the event for service members that may not otherwise be able to afford to attend.

Make sure you don’t miss another amazing episode of the Just Start Real Estate Podcast with Erin Helle and learn about everything she has been up to since the last time she was on the show!

Notable Quotes:

“This is a great industry and there is a lot of opportunity, but it isn’t necessarily for everyone.”

• Mike Simmons

“I hate the short-term rental game. I hate everything about it.”

• Erin Helle

“We use any cash we can come up with to build our portfolio.”

• Erin Helle

“I am a very left-brain, logical decision-maker.”

• Erin Helle

“I don’t really have the personality to talk to STR guests.”

• Mike Simmons

“It was the network of other West Point grads, and other veterans, in the space that helped me get my start and help me take that first step and then scale.”

• Erin Helle

“There is a lot of value in networking events.”

• Mike Simmons

“I have been amazed at the generosity of the people speaking and putting on this event.”

• Erin Helle

“The value of being in a room with these investors is like an education on steroids.”

• Mike Simmons

Thank You for Listening!

• Connect with Mike on Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, Linkedin, Facebook

Help Out the Show:

• Leave an honest review on iTunes. Your ratings and reviews really help, and I read each one.
• Subscribe on iTunes.

Resources and Links From Today's Show:

Previous Episode with Erin

Financial Freedom Summit

Erin’s Website

Erin on Facebook

Erin on Instagram

Erin on YouTube

More Resources From Mike:

• Level Jumping: How I Grew My Business to Over $1 Million in Profits in 12 Months
• WINNING DIRECT MAIL - How to CRUSH IT with direct mail!

Virtual Wholesaling Made Simple with Chris Logan

Today's Guest: Chris Logan

I am excited to have my friend and fellow investor, Chris, on the show today! He is a super smart investor that is passionate about teaching people how to invest outside of their home market.

Highlights From The Show:

We start the interview as we always do by getting some of Chris’ background and how he got started in real estate investing. He was introduced to real estate (like so many others) by reading Rich Dad Poor Dad and then signed up for an investing course with his wife, Heather. They began their business by wholesaling properties and Chris said during that time they tried fix and flipping, but that strategy did not appeal to them. They built their wholesaling business into a 7 figure business and wanted to focus on the one thing that they were really good at.

We then discuss wholesaling in markets other than where one lives, which is what Chris primarily does. He said when he is picking a new market, he looks at the population and median home prices. I asked him what specifically he is looking at regarding the population and he said they look for a population between 250,000 and 500,000 people because you know that many houses will be bought and sold and also that it is an area that people want to be in. Chris also recommends using the power of local Facebook groups to build your buyers list and network.

Make sure you don’t miss another amazing episode of the Just Start Real Estate Podcast with Chris Logan to learn the ins and outs of virtual wholesaling!

Notable Quotes:

“You are just going to drop value, I know it.”

• Mike Simmons

“Rich Dad Poor Dad is like the gateway drug for real estate investing.”

• Mike Simmons

“Flipping is more of a construction business and wholesaling is a sales and marketing business.”

• Chris Logan

“I am not the biggest fan of flipping, either. I get burned out with the contractor situation.”

• Mike Simmons

“It is not like you take a wholesaling course and then money starts falling from the sky.”

• Chris Logan

“We don’t start investing in a market because we want to be there - we follow the money.”

• Chris Logan

“I like starting in an area where I have a runway to scale.”

• Chris Logan

“I think you should build your buyers list before you market for sellers, especially if you are a brand new investor.”

• Chris Logan

“Massive and perfect action is what you want to focus on.”

• Chris Logan

“Our mentality is ‘keep it small, keep it all.’”

• Chris Logan

“Let’s do deals together!”

• Chris Logan

“Massive action is the cure for most things.”

• Mike Simmons

Thank You for Listening!

• Connect with Mike on Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, Linkedin, Facebook

Help Out the Show:

• Leave an honest review on iTunes. Your ratings and reviews really help, and I read each one.
• Subscribe on iTunes.

Resources and Links From Today's Show:

Rich Dad Poor Dad

The ONE Thing

Mailchimp

Aweber

PropStream

Chris on Facebook

Virtual Wholesaling Made Simple

Mike on Facebook

More Resources From Mike:

• Level Jumping: How I Grew My Business to Over $1 Million in Profits in 12 Months
• WINNING DIRECT MAIL - How to CRUSH IT with direct mail!

How to Build a Wildly Successful Short-Term Rental Company PART TWO

Today's Guests: James Svetec & Riley Oickle

One of the world's foremost Airbnb experts and the co-author of Airbnb for Dummies, James has helped over 1,000 students all over the globe leverage the power of short-term rentals as a vehicle for cash flow and wealth. James is the industry's go-to expert when it comes to mastering performance and streamlining operations. He consults with more than 600 property management companies around the world.

Riley is a Canadian real estate investor and mentor who specializes in multi-family residential investing through BRRRR and joint venture strategies. Throughout the journey of buying his first income property in the Southwestern Ontario area, he realized that there is a real need in the market to help people go through this process more easily. Today, he owns a real estate portfolio worth over $8 million and has helped new investors buy their first properties without wasting time and money on trial and error.

Highlights From The Show:

This is a continuation of the show we posted a couple of weeks ago, discussing the ins and outs of short-term rental investing. We talk about financing, management, software, the science behind listings, and so much more! Make sure you don’t miss another amazing episode of the Just Start Real Estate Podcast with James Svetec and Riley Oickle and learn more about how to build a wildly successful short-term rental company!

Notable Quotes:

“Typically, management costs 20% of your revenue.”

• Riley Oickle

“We find that if you have a short-term rental property 1-2 hours outside of a major urban area, it is a great opportunity for people to staycation.”

• Riley Oickle

“I would love to have the company motto: I don’t do anything personally, but my company handles everything in-house.”

• Mike Simmons

“Almost all issues will come from one-night stays.”

• James Svetec

“The check-in process is really important because it is your guest’s first impression of your property, so you want it to be very easy.”

• James Svetec

“I am the baby boomer of the group.”

• Riley Oickle

“We recommend that people price their STRs manually at the beginning.”

• James Svetec

Thank You for Listening!

• Connect with Mike on Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, Linkedin, Facebook

Help Out the Show:

• Leave an honest review on iTunes. Your ratings and reviews really help, and I read each one.
• Subscribe on iTunes.

Resources and Links From Today's Show:

Minut Noise Monitoring

NoiseAware

Nest

August Lock

Hostaway

Hostfully

PriceLabs

AirDNA

AllTheRooms

Mashvisor

Motel Makeovers

BNB Inner Circle

James on Instagram

Riley on Instagram

More Resources From Mike:

• Level Jumping: How I Grew My Business to Over $1 Million in Profits in 12 Months
• WINNING DIRECT MAIL - How to CRUSH IT with direct mail!