In this episode, Tait Duryea and Ryan Gibson dive into creative real estate financing with Chris Prefontaine, founder of Smart Real Estate Coach. Chris shares powerful strategies like seller financing, subject-to deals, and lease purchases, revealing how investors can acquire properties without banks—even in today’s high-interest rate environment. Learn how to find off-market properties, negotiate seller carrybacks, and unlock hidden real estate opportunities.

Chris Prefontaine is the chairman and founder of Smart Real Estate Coach, with over 30 years of experience in the real estate industry. Since 1991, he has built, brokered, and invested in properties across various asset classes. After weathering the 2008 financial crash, he shifted his focus to creative financing strategies, specializing in seller financing, lease purchases, and subject-to deals. Through Smart Real Estate Coach, Chris mentors investors across North America, helping them structure profitable real estate transactions without relying on banks. 

Show notes:

(0:00) Intro

(06:21) What is seller financing?

(10:26) Why sellers agree to carry the note—the hidden tax benefits

(19:41) Seller vs. buyer perspective

(24:19) How to find free-and-clear properties for seller financing

(38:02) The key to negotiating seller financing terms

(44:00) What is a Subject-To (Sub-To) deal?

(49:18) How to invest passively vs. actively in real estate

(52:29) Outro

Connect with Chris Prefontaine:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisprefontaine 
• Website: https://wickedsmartbooks.com/PIP 

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*Legal Disclaimer*

The content of this podcast is provided solely for educational and informational purposes. The views and opinions expressed are those of the hosts, Tait Duryea and Ryan Gibson, and do not reflect those of any organization they are associated with, including Turbine Capital or Spartan Investment Group. The opinions of our guests are their own and should not be construed as financial advice. This podcast does not offer tax, legal, or investment advice. Listeners are advised to consult with their own legal or financial counsel and to conduct their own due diligence before making any financial decisions.