Are you prepared to navigate the challenges of the “looming commercial real estate debt crisis"? In this episode of REady2Scale, Jeannette Friedrich sits down with Dillon Freeman, Senior Loan Officer at Fidelity Bancorp Funding, to discuss the current landscape of commercial real estate debt, refinancing strategies, and how investors can adapt in a shifting market. With rising interest rates, cap rate compression, and widespread market uncertainty, this conversation dives deep into the strategies operators are employing to stay afloat and the opportunities emerging in private credit and debt funds.

Key Takeaways:

-"Survive Until 25" Mindset: Understand why this mantra resonates with investors facing record loan maturities amidst high interest rates and diminished property valuations.

- Creative Solutions for Looming Debt Maturities: Explore cash-in refinances, joint venture partnerships, and the role of preferred equity in navigating today's challenging environment.

- The Relationship Between Interest Rates, Cap Rates, and Property Valuations: Gain insights into how rising cap rates are impacting valuations and what the future may hold for commercial real estate pricing.

- Opportunities in Private Debt Funds: Learn how debt funds are filling gaps left by traditional banks, offering investors double-digit returns and greater liquidity.

- Key Red Flags When Evaluating Debt Funds: Discover essential due diligence tips for evaluating the track record, credit discipline, and operational transparency of private credit managers.

- Challenges of Small-Balance Loan Origination: Understand the complexities sponsors face when securing smaller loans and why professionalism and sponsor liquidity matter.

- Advice for Building Long-Term Wealth: Dylan shares why "consistency beats intensity" in investing and how to stay in the market for the long haul.

Whether you're an operator, passive investor, or simply someone looking to understand the dynamics of the commercial real estate debt market, this episode is packed with actionable advice and unique perspectives to help you navigate today's challenges and position yourself for future success.

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 & the Blue Lake team, email them at [email protected] or complete our investor form at www.bluelake-capital.com/new-investor-form and they'll connect with you.

Credits

Producer: Blue Lake Capital

Strategist: Syed Mahmood

Editor: Emma Walker

Opening music: Pomplamoose

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

01:11 Survive Until 25: The Debt Crisis

03:32 Creative Solutions for Loan Maturities

07:01 Cap Rates and Market Adjustments

14:04 Income and Debt Funds Explained

28:48 Lightning Round and Closing Remarks

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Why DeepSeek Is Shaking Up the Market—and What It Means for Real Estate Investors

What if a new AI technology could disrupt major players like OpenAI, Google, and Nvidia—at a fraction of the cost? In this episode, Jeanette Friedrich, Director of Investor Relations at Blue Lake Capital, unpacks the rise of DeepSeek, the app that's transforming the tech landscape, shaking up the stock market, and posing opportunities and challenges for real estate investors.

Key Takeaways:

- DeepSeek Overview: Learn how this new AI app, developed for just $6 million, rivals tech giants by offering cutting-edge capabilities with lower costs and power consumption.

- Market Impact: Understand the dramatic stock market reactions, including Nvidia’s 17% drop, and what this volatility signals for investors.

- Portfolio Diversification: Explore the importance of balancing high-growth tech investments with steady wealth-building assets like real estate.

- AI in Real Estate: Discover how AI, including tools like DeepSeek, can transform underwriting, market analysis, and property management, leading to potential cost savings and higher returns for investors.

- Global AI Trends: Reflect on the implications of embracing AI technology, especially when it comes from countries like China, and its potential long-term impact on industries and investments.

This episode offers actionable insights for investors seeking to navigate tech-driven market volatility while building a diversified portfolio. Don’t miss the exploration of how AI advancements could reshape the future of real estate.

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to DeepSeek and Its Impact

00:34 What is DeepSeek?

01:45 Market Reactions and Stock Volatility

02:17 Blue Lake Capital's Investment Strategy

02:57 Balancing Technology and Real Estate Investments

03:44 Future of AI in Real Estate

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 & the Blue Lake team, email them at [email protected] or complete our investor form at www.bluelake-capital.com/new-investor-form and they'll connect with you.

Credits

Producer: Blue Lake Capital

Strategist: Syed Mahmood

Editor: Emma Walker

Opening music: Pomplamoose

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What does it take to navigate the complexities of cross-border real estate investing? In this episode, we dive into the nuanced world of Canadian and U.S. real estate markets with August Biniaz, Chief Investment Officer of CPI Capital and an expert in multifamily and built-to-rent investments. August shares valuable insights on how to bridge the gap between these two markets, leveraging his extensive experience in real estate private equity, construction management, and development.

Key Takeaways:

- Canadian vs. U.S. Real Estate: Explore the stark differences in market dynamics, from cap rates to tax incentives, and how they influence investment strategies.

- Navigating Cross-Border Investments: Learn about the challenges of structuring investments to avoid double taxation and comply with U.S. and Canadian regulations.

- Future Trends in Development: Understand how technology like modular homes and 3D printing is shaping the future of real estate construction and investment.

- Built-to-Rent Explained: Discover why built-to-rent communities are gaining traction and how they cater to both renters by necessity and choice.

- Lessons on Debt and Investor Relationships: Gain practical advice on choosing the right debt structures and staying true to your fiduciary duty to investors.

- Overcoming Industry Challenges: Learn how to creatively address issues like rising insurance costs, labor shortages, and tariffs affecting construction.

- Living an Extraordinary Life: August reflects on balancing hard work, smart decisions, and building a meaningful life beyond financial success.

Join us for this insightful conversation to deepen your understanding of real estate investing across borders and prepare for the evolving landscape of 2025 and beyond.

Connect with August Biniaz: https://www.linkedin.com/in/augustbiniaz/

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and leave a comment! Let us know the topics you’d like us to cover next. Be bold, be strong, and be extraordinary.

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 & the Blue Lake team, email them at [email protected] or complete our investor form at www.bluelake-capital.com/new-investor-form and they'll connect with you.

Credits

Producer: Blue Lake Capital

Strategist: Syed Mahmood

Editor: Emma Walker

Opening music: Pomplamoose

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

01:44 Understanding the Canadian Real Estate Market

05:26 Cross-Border Real Estate Investments

10:20 Challenges and Innovations in Construction

16:00 The Rise of Build-to-Rent Communities

26:31 Lightning Round and Closing Thoughts

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Are Trump’s latest executive orders about to reshape the real estate landscape?

In this episode of REady2Scale, we dive into the immediate implications of President Trump’s return to office and his first wave of executive orders. These policy changes have the potential to significantly affect real estate investors, from construction costs to market dynamics and workforce availability.

Key Takeaways:

- Environmental Policy Rollbacks: How reversing 78 regulatory actions might reduce construction costs but raise sustainability challenges.

- Federal Hiring Freeze: What this means for real estate investors in Washington, D.C., and other federal employment hubs.

- Return-to-Office Mandates: The potential ripple effects on office markets and suburban housing inventory.

- Cost of Living Crisis Declaration: Could this lead to lower taxes, wage increases, or other economic changes that benefit investors?

- Labor Market Disruptions: The impact of immigration policy changes on construction, maintenance, and renovation projects.

- No Tariffs (Yet): Why the absence of tariffs, for now, is a relief for real estate investors reliant on affordable construction materials and appliances.

Tune in for an in-depth breakdown of these developments and what they mean for your real estate investment strategy.

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 & the Blue Lake team, email them at [email protected] or complete our investor form at www.bluelake-capital.com/new-investor-form and they'll connect with you.

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction and Overview

00:24 Trump's Executive Orders Impacting Real Estate

00:50 Reversal of Environmental Policies

01:32 Federal Hiring Freeze and Return to Office

03:14 Cost of Living Crisis and National Emergency

05:44 Conclusion and Future Updates

Credits

Producer: Blue Lake Capital

Strategist: Syed Mahmood

Editor: Emma Walker

Opening music: Pomplamoose

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This episode dives deep into the challenges and opportunities facing real estate investors in the coming year. From interest rates and tariffs to navigating a cliff in new development pipelines, our guest, Kimberly Byrum, Managing Principal at Zonda, shares data-driven insights to help you make informed decisions. Discover what’s shaping the multifamily and housing markets and how you can position yourself for success.

- The 2025 Market Outlook: Why new development pipelines are falling off and what it means for housing demand and rent growth.

- Impact of Interest Rates and Tariffs: How these economic factors are influencing underwriting and development costs.

- Demographic Trends to Watch: Insights into millennial renters, the rise of build-to-rent communities, and shifts in first-time homebuyer age.

- Navigating Market Fundamentals: Tips for identifying strong-performing markets and what to look for when evaluating opportunities.

- Sustainable Development Challenges: How climate risks, such as hurricanes and insurance costs, are reshaping market strategies.

- Emerging Opportunities: Exploring new concepts like 3D-printed homes, mass timber construction, and adaptive reuse projects.

Join us for a thought-provoking conversation packed with actionable insights to help you stay ahead in a rapidly evolving market. Don’t miss Kimberly’s advice on how to balance profitability with creating positive, lasting impacts through real estate.

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to 2025 Market Uncertainties

00:25 Meet the Expert: Kimberly Byrum

01:48 Understanding Zonda's Data Solutions

04:16 Challenges and Projections for 2025

17:36 Market Fundamentals and Investment Strategies

31:00 Lightning Round and Final Thoughts

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 & the Blue Lake team, email them at [email protected] or complete our investor form at www.bluelake-capital.com/new-investor-form and they'll connect with you.

Credits

Producer: Blue Lake Capital

Strategist: Syed Mahmood

Editor: Emma Walker

Opening music: Pomplamoose

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To help Southern Californian families impacted by wildfires, please review the Community Organizations Link Here.

Have you ever wondered how natural disasters reshape real estate markets and create ripple effects far beyond the immediate aftermath? This episode dives into the short- and long-term consequences of these disruptive events on property values, supply and demand, and market resilience.

Key Takeaways:

- Immediate Market Impacts: Learn how property values plummet, supply tightens, and insurance and financing challenges emerge right after a natural disaster.

- Short-Term Effects: Discover how rental rates spike, migration patterns shift, and stigmas affect impacted areas, while unique investment opportunities arise.

- Long-Term Resilience: Explore how communities rebuild stronger, innovate, and often see property values exceed pre-disaster levels over time.

- Real-World Example: Understand the recovery journey of Houston after Hurricane Harvey and the lessons it provides for disaster-prone markets.

This episode offers valuable insights for homeowners, investors, and anyone curious about how markets adapt and recover in the face of natural adversity. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how resilience and innovation can transform disaster into opportunity.

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 & the Blue Lake team, email them at [email protected] or complete our investor form at www.bluelake-capital.com/new-investor-form and they'll connect with you.

Credits

Producer: Blue Lake Capital

Strategist: Syed Mahmood

Editor: Emma Walker

Opening music: Pomplamoose

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction and Current Situation

00:15 Call to Action: Helping the Community

01:10 Immediate Impacts of Natural Disasters on Real Estate

02:49 Short-Term Effects on the Real Estate Market

04:21 Long-Term Resilience and Rebuilding

05:18 Case Study: Hurricane Harvey's Impact and Recovery

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Are you ready to learn how to navigate commercial real estate, scale your portfolio, and build a recession-resistant business? In this episode, David Lilley, founder and CEO of Reap Capital, shares his inspiring journey from serving as a Marine Corps mortar squad leader to leading a $200 million AUM real estate empire. Whether you’re new to investing or looking to scale your business, this episode offers invaluable lessons on leadership, strategic growth, and finding opportunities in challenging markets.

Key Takeaways:

-Starting Small, Thinking Big: How David used VA loans to build a single-family portfolio and transitioned into multifamily for greater economies of scale.

-Overcoming Barriers: The challenges of entering the multifamily market, including building credibility and sourcing off-market deals.

-Scaling Efficiently: Why David started three companies—Reap Capital, Reap Management, and Reap Construction—and how in-house operations provide cost control and operational efficiency.

-Navigating Distress: Insights into structuring partnerships to acquire lender-foreclosed properties with outsized returns, even in a tough capital-raising environment.

-Leadership Insights: The importance of hiring for your weaknesses, delegating effectively, and focusing on the "little things" that lead to long-term success.

This episode is packed with actionable advice and candid reflections from a seasoned operator who has built success step by step. Tune in to gain clarity on how to approach your own investment and leadership journey.

Connect with David Lilley:

Website: ReapCapital.com

Don’t forget to rate, review, and subscribe to the REady2Scale Podcast for more insights from industry leaders!

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 & the Blue Lake team, email them at [email protected] or complete our investor form at www.bluelake-capital.com/new-investor-form and they'll connect with you.

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction and Market Overview

00:14 Meet David Lilley: From Marine to Real Estate Mogul

01:39 David's Journey into Real Estate

03:23 Scaling Up: From Single Family to Multifamily

06:23 Managing Multiple Companies

09:42 Strategic Partnerships and Future Outlook

Credits

Producer: Blue Lake Capital

Strategist: Syed Mahmood

Editor: Emma Walker

Opening music: Pomplamoose

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Where are people moving to, and where are they leaving? Understanding migration trends is crucial for real estate investors aiming to make informed decisions. In this episode of REady2Scale, Jeannette Friedrich, Director of Investor Relations at Blue Lake Capital, breaks down the 2024 migration reports from U-Haul and Allied Van Lines. Discover which markets are set for growth and which might be on the decline.

Key Takeaways:

- Top Growth Markets: Explore which states saw the highest inbound migration according to U-Haul and Allied Van Lines, including surprising trends in South Carolina, North Carolina, and Tennessee.

- Declining Markets: Learn which states (and why) are at the top of the list for outbound migration and what that means for investors.

- Unexpected Trends: Dive into standout market shifts, including Oklahoma’s dramatic rise and Colorado’s surprising decline in favorability.

- Actionable Insights: Understand how to interpret these trends based on your target tenant demographics and investment strategy, whether you're focused on Class B properties or luxury developments.

Tune in for a data-driven discussion that will help you navigate the dynamic landscape of multifamily real estate in 2025.

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 & the Blue Lake team, email them at [email protected] or complete our investor form at www.bluelake-capital.com/new-investor-form and they'll connect with you.

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction and Overview

00:33 Understanding Net Migration Trends

02:25 U-Haul and Allied Van Lines Reports

02:29 Top States People Are Moving To

04:07 States People Are Leaving

05:18 Surprising Migration Trends and Conclusion

Credits

Producer: Blue Lake Capital

Strategist: Syed Mahmood

Editor: Emma Walker

Opening music: Pomplamoose

#investing #uhaul #migration

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Key Takeaways:

-Why the Office Sector Isn't Doomed: Gain insight into how the market has broadly misjudged office real estate, creating opportunities for high-quality, stabilized assets at historically low prices.

-Strategic Market Selection: Discover how suburban markets in the Midwest and Southeast are outperforming major urban centers in office absorption and demand.

-Value in Stabilized Assets: Learn why Sentinel Net Lease focuses on Class A properties with long-term leases and mission-critical tenants to ensure strong cash flow and mitigate risk.

-Future of Office Real Estate: Explore Dennis's predictions for a right-sized office market and the shifts in workplace dynamics influencing long-term trends.

-Navigating Tenant Competition: Understand how amenity-rich, move-in-ready properties give competitive edge in attracting and retaining tenants.

-Investment Strategy Beyond Speculation: Learn how stabilized office properties can offer compelling returns today without relying on speculative future interest rate changes.

Whether you're a seasoned investor or new to commercial real estate, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you navigate the evolving office market and uncover opportunities others are missing.

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 & the Blue Lake team, email them at [email protected] or complete our investor form at www.bluelake-capital.com/new-investor-form and they'll connect with you.

Guest Information: https://sentinelnetlease.com/ 

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

00:25 Meet Dennis Cisterna: Background and Experience

01:23 The Shift from Single Family to Office Investments

03:52 Impact of COVID and Remote Work on Office Sector

08:43 Market Strategies and Opportunities

31:42 Lightning Round and Closing Thoughts

Credits

Producer: Blue Lake Capital

Strategist: Syed Mahmood

Editor: Emma Walker

Opening music: Pomplamoose

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As we continue to scale new heights on our podcast journey, we’re taking a moment to revisit one of our most impactful episodes. For episode 422, we’re replaying Ellie Perlman’s story of founding Blue Lake Capital—an origin story that continues to resonate deeply with our listeners.

Why now? Because as we wrap up another transformative year in real estate investing, this episode serves as a reminder of the bold vision, determination, and purpose that it takes to achieve success. Whether you’re setting goals for the new year or seeking renewed motivation, Ellie’s journey is a testament to what’s possible with hard work and a clear mission.

Key Takeaway:

Your dreams can become goals, and goals can be achieved. The key is to believe in yourself, build the right team of people around you, and be willing to work very hard and with dedication.

Listen in for a fresh dose of inspiration as we reflect on the story that started it all and the lessons that are still shaping the future.

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 & the Blue Lake team, email them at [email protected] or complete our investor form at www.bluelake-capital.com/new-investor-form and they'll connect with you.

Timestamps

00:00 A Shocking Diagnosis

00:26 Introduction to the Podcast

05:37 Ellie's Early Life in Israel

40:26 Struggles with Health and Work

44:18 A New Beginning: Career Shift

55:05 Building Blue Lake Capital

Credits

Producer: Blue Lake Capital

Strategist: Syed Mahmood

Editor: Emma Walker

Opening music: Pomplamoose

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How to Buy Real Estate Without Banks: Creative Financing Explained

Are rising home prices and challenging lending standards keeping you from your real estate goals? Imagine owning properties without involving banks, credit checks, or traditional financing. On this episode of REady2Scale, we dive deep into the world of creative financing with Jenn and Joe Delafave, founders of the Creative Finance Playbook. They reveal innovative strategies to acquire real estate and turn renters into homeowners—solutions that can change lives and transform portfolios.

Tune in to learn actionable insights, from acquiring homes with just $100 down to managing a thriving rental business without the hassles of traditional property management.

Key Takeaways:

-Creative Financing 101: Learn how strategies like seller financing, subject-to, and wrap mortgages allow you to buy real estate without banks or credit checks.

-Real-Life Case Studies: Discover how Jenn and Joe acquired turnkey properties for minimal upfront costs, helping sellers offload properties while generating significant cash flow.

-Win-Win Negotiation Tactics: Master the art of asking the right questions to create mutually beneficial deals that meet sellers’ needs and your investment goals.

-Rent-to-Own Success Stories: See how creative financing helps renters with credit challenges become homeowners, offering a path to stability and pride of ownership.

-Scaling Simplified: Find out how Jenn and Joe manage a portfolio across multiple states with minimal hassle by leveraging lease-option agreements.

Whether you’re a seasoned investor or just exploring real estate, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to expand your toolkit and rethink what’s possible.

Resources Mentioned:

-Creative Finance Playbook by Jenn and Joe Delafave

-Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill

-Buy Back Your Time by Dan Martell

-The Mentor Podcast with Ron LeGrand

Connect with the Guests:

-Jenn Delle Fave: Instagram

-Joe Delle Fave: Instagram 

Connect with Us:

Subscribe, like, and leave a review! Let us know what topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes.

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