In this episode of Broker’s Blueprint, Martino and Nick are joined by Matt Smith, founder of Valor Built—a veteran-owned construction company making waves in the Philadelphia region. From his time as a platoon leader in Iraq to launching a residential and commercial building company, Matt breaks down the mindset, systems, and setbacks that shaped his journey from soldier to successful general contractor.

Whether you're a real estate investor, developer, or aspiring builder, this conversation dives deep into what it really takes to lead construction projects in a market like Philly.

Key takeaways:

How military discipline translates into business leadership

Why communication is the biggest differentiator in construction

Lessons from managing subcontractors, clients, and chaos

The financial realities of being a small to mid-sized GC

How to grow a lean, profitable construction business without losing your edge

If you’re looking to partner with reliable builders, understand how construction timelines really work, or gain insight into running a service-first construction company—this one’s for you.

🎧 Tune in now and don’t forget to subscribe for weekly insights into Philly real estate, development, and the brokers shaping the market.

====

Powered by iFundCities — the lending platform built for real estate investors who move fast and think big. From fix-and-flips to long-term rentals, iFundCities offers flexible loan solutions, lightning-fast closings, and a transparent process you can count on. Ready to fund your next deal? 

Learn more at iFundCities.com.

Make sure you subscribe the podcast here -  

https://m.mtrbio.com/BrokersBlueprint

Visit our website to learn more about us -

https://www.hunterscre.com/

Follow the show here -

IG - https://instagram.com/hunters_creLinkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/hunterscommercial/FB - https://www.facebook.com/huntersphilly

Subscribe to our YouTube channel -  

https://www.youtube.com/@HuntersCommercialRealEstate

Connect with Martino Picariello here -  

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/martino-picariello-4898aa172/

IG -https://www.instagram.com/p/DFstUCLxbRi/

Connect with Nicholas Giganti

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholas-giganti-9bb4058/

IG - https://www.instagram.com/nickgigantirealestate/

In this solo episode, Martino breaks down the five most important questions he gets from seasoned investors looking to scale smarter—not just bigger. From calculating what actually makes a deal “good” to leveraging capital partners, mastering 1031 exchanges, and building systems that scale, this episode is a masterclass for anyone past their first deal and aiming for long-term success. Martino also shares real-world investor stories, including the mindset shift behind living below your means and how to consistently source off-market deals in a tight market.

Whether you're sitting on your first property or running a growing portfolio, this episode is packed with tactical advice and insider knowledge that will help you think more strategically, act with confidence, and build for the long haul.

🔑 Topics Covered:

The real way to evaluate deals (hint: it's not just cap rate)

Why capital recycling is the ultimate scale strategy

1031 exchanges: when to use them—and when to walk away

How to structure a JV deal that actually works

The three keys to finding off-market opportunities in 2025

====

Powered by iFundCities — the lending platform built for real estate investors who move fast and think big. From fix-and-flips to long-term rentals, iFundCities offers flexible loan solutions, lightning-fast closings, and a transparent process you can count on. Ready to fund your next deal? 

Learn more at iFundCities.com.

Make sure you subscribe the podcast here -  

https://m.mtrbio.com/BrokersBlueprint

Visit our website to learn more about us -

https://www.hunterscre.com/

Follow the show here -

IG - https://instagram.com/hunters_creLinkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/hunterscommercial/FB - https://www.facebook.com/huntersphilly

Subscribe to our YouTube channel -  

https://www.youtube.com/@HuntersCommercialRealEstate

Connect with Martino Picariello here -  

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/martino-picariello-4898aa172/

IG -https://www.instagram.com/p/DFstUCLxbRi/

Connect with Nicholas Giganti

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholas-giganti-9bb4058/

IG - https://www.instagram.com/nickgigantirealestate/

This week on Broker’s Blueprint, Jesse Vandeboe joins the crew to break down how he’s consistently closing deals in one of the toughest real estate markets we’ve seen. From direct-to-seller prospecting to creative financing strategies, Jesse shares exactly how he sources off-market properties and spots value others miss.

You’ll hear why value-add multifamily is outperforming in 2025, how to build real seller relationships without wasting time, and what makes certain Philly neighborhoods worth betting on. Whether you’re trying to win more listings or lock in better investments, Jesse’s insight is pure gold for brokers and buyers alike.

📍 What you’ll learn:
• Why sellers are finally open to creative financing
• The cold call approach that still works today
• How to underwrite properties like a true investor
• What makes a unit layout un-rentable
• The Philly pockets smart investors are targeting right now

====

Powered by iFundCities — the lending platform built for real estate investors who move fast and think big. From fix-and-flips to long-term rentals, iFundCities offers flexible loan solutions, lightning-fast closings, and a transparent process you can count on. Ready to fund your next deal? 

Learn more at iFundCities.com.

Make sure you subscribe the podcast here -  

https://m.mtrbio.com/BrokersBlueprint

Visit our website to learn more about us -

https://www.hunterscre.com/

Follow the show here -

IG - https://instagram.com/hunters_creLinkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/hunterscommercial/FB - https://www.facebook.com/huntersphilly

Subscribe to our YouTube channel -  

https://www.youtube.com/@HuntersCommercialRealEstate

Connect with Martino Picariello here -  

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/martino-picariello-4898aa172/

IG -https://www.instagram.com/p/DFstUCLxbRi/

Connect with Nicholas Giganti

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholas-giganti-9bb4058/

IG - https://www.instagram.com/nickgigantirealestate/

In this episode of Broker’s Blueprint, Martino Picariello and Chris Terrio dive into the under-the-radar neighborhoods, commercial corridors, and real estate pockets that are quietly shaping the future of Philadelphia.

From bachelor party stories in Charleston to overlooked corridors in Fishtown and Francisville, the guys explore what makes a neighborhood truly desirable—and why some Philly markets are still sitting on untapped potential.

Inside the episode:

The hidden commercial corridors that drive neighborhood value—and why areas like Ridge Avenue and Point Breeze Ave still struggle to attract anchor businesses.

The overlooked charm (and potential upside) of Bella Vista, Queen Village, and Packer Park for investors and families alike.

Why South Philly remains a powerhouse of accessibility, community, and walkability.

Real talk on zoning, development pain points, and why Philly’s tax structure keeps holding back national brands and commercial anchors.

Martino and Chris's personal takes on their favorite Philly streets, neighborhoods for first-timers, and how the upcoming World Cup will force Philly to level up—or fall behind.

Whether you’re a broker, investor, or just Philly-curious, this episode is packed with on-the-ground insights into the city’s next wave of opportunity—and the urban pain points that still need fixing.

🎧 Listen now to discover the hidden Philly most people overlook.

====

Powered by iFundCities — the lending platform built for real estate investors who move fast and think big. From fix-and-flips to long-term rentals, iFundCities offers flexible loan solutions, lightning-fast closings, and a transparent process you can count on. Ready to fund your next deal? 

Learn more at iFundCities.com.

Make sure you subscribe the podcast here -  

https://m.mtrbio.com/BrokersBlueprint

Visit our website to learn more about us -

https://www.hunterscre.com/

Follow the show here -

IG - https://instagram.com/hunters_creLinkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/hunterscommercial/FB - https://www.facebook.com/huntersphilly

Subscribe to our YouTube channel -  

https://www.youtube.com/@HuntersCommercialRealEstate

Connect with Martino Picariello here -  

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/martino-picariello-4898aa172/

IG -https://www.instagram.com/p/DFstUCLxbRi/

Connect with Nicholas Giganti

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholas-giganti-9bb4058/

IG - https://www.instagram.com/nickgigantirealestate/

This week on Broker’s Blueprint, Martino and Nick sit down with Jim Roach —co-founder of Rarity Real Estate, serial dealmaker, and leader of one of the fastest-growing teams in Philly. From cold-calling landowners in Point Breeze to leading a billion-dollar expansion platform, JR breaks down the power of relationships, mentorship, and relentless pursuit.

Inside this episode:

The "land to leverage" playbook JR used to build a pipeline of new construction deals—and how it became his real estate annuity.

Why your network IS your net worth, and how to get in the right rooms with the right people (even if you’re starting at zero).

The evolution from mentee to mentor, and how JR scaled his business by empowering others to win.

How Rarity OS is rewriting the playbook for agents—giving them enterprise-level systems without the overhead.

JR’s unfiltered take on interest rates, market shifts, and why your business should never rely on the market cycle to grow.

This one is loaded with hard-earned lessons, actionable strategies, and behind-the-scenes stories from the trenches of Philly’s real estate grind.

🎧 Listen now for the blueprint on building relationships that scale your deals—and your career.

====

Powered by iFundCities — the lending platform built for real estate investors who move fast and think big. From fix-and-flips to long-term rentals, iFundCities offers flexible loan solutions, lightning-fast closings, and a transparent process you can count on. Ready to fund your next deal? 

Learn more at iFundCities.com.

Make sure you subscribe the podcast here -  

https://m.mtrbio.com/BrokersBlueprint

Visit our website to learn more about us -

https://www.hunterscre.com/

Follow the show here -

IG - https://instagram.com/hunters_creLinkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/hunterscommercial/FB - https://www.facebook.com/huntersphilly

Subscribe to our YouTube channel -  

https://www.youtube.com/@HuntersCommercialRealEstate

Connect with Martino Picariello here -  

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/martino-picariello-4898aa172/

IG -https://www.instagram.com/p/DFstUCLxbRi/

Connect with Nicholas Giganti

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholas-giganti-9bb4058/

IG - https://www.instagram.com/nickgigantirealestate/

Want to build new construction but not sure where to start? In this episode of Broker’s Blueprint, hosts Nick Giganti, Martino Picariello, and Chris Terio (iFundCities) break down the entire ground-up development process—from scouting raw land to securing construction financing and scaling your investment.

You’ll discover:

How to evaluate land for residential or multifamily development

What to include in a 30–60 day due diligence period (and why it’s non-negotiable)

Why “entitlements” can increase land value before a single shovel hits the ground

The exact loan structure lenders like iFundCities want to see

Pro tips for working with architects, engineers, and contractors the right way

If you’re a real estate investor, developer, or broker looking to capitalize on new construction opportunities in Philadelphia or similar markets, this is your roadmap.

✅ Learn how smart investors reduce risk, boost land equity, and lock in flexible financing.

✅ Plus: The “land banking” strategy that’s helping developers profit without building.

Hit play to level up your land development game—and avoid costly rookie mistakes.

====

Powered by iFundCities — the lending platform built for real estate investors who move fast and think big. From fix-and-flips to long-term rentals, iFundCities offers flexible loan solutions, lightning-fast closings, and a transparent process you can count on. Ready to fund your next deal? 

Learn more at iFundCities.com.

Make sure you subscribe the podcast here -  

https://m.mtrbio.com/BrokersBlueprint

Visit our website to learn more about us -

https://www.hunterscre.com/

Follow the show here -

IG - https://instagram.com/hunters_creLinkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/hunterscommercial/FB - https://www.facebook.com/huntersphilly

Subscribe to our YouTube channel -  

https://www.youtube.com/@HuntersCommercialRealEstate

Connect with Martino Picariello here -  

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/martino-picariello-4898aa172/

IG -https://www.instagram.com/p/DFstUCLxbRi/

Connect with Nicholas Giganti

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholas-giganti-9bb4058/

IG - https://www.instagram.com/nickgigantirealestate/

In this episode of Broker’s Blueprint, Nick and Martino sit down with Airbnb power host and realtor Drew Burton to unpack the real math behind short-term rentals. From Wildwood to Philly, Drew shares hard-won lessons on cash-on-cash returns, the hidden costs of “passive” income, and why your cleaners might just be your most important business partners.

They break down:

What a true 20% cash-on-cash return looks like—and why most self-managing owners fall short.

The operational headaches no one tells you about (and how management companies help you avoid them).

How to scale smart with systems, not stress—and the rookie mistakes to avoid when furnishing and setting up your first Airbnb.

Why unique stays and niche markets are the future of short-term rentals—and how investors can tap into them.

Whether you're looking to turn your second home into a cash machine or scale an Airbnb portfolio across multiple cities, this episode gives you real-world insights from someone who’s been through the mess—and come out profitable.

🎧 Listen now for actionable takeaways brokers and investors can apply today.

====

Powered by iFundCities — the lending platform built for real estate investors who move fast and think big. From fix-and-flips to long-term rentals, iFundCities offers flexible loan solutions, lightning-fast closings, and a transparent process you can count on. Ready to fund your next deal? 

Learn more at iFundCities.com.

Make sure you subscribe the podcast here -  

https://m.mtrbio.com/BrokersBlueprint

Visit our website to learn more about us -

https://www.hunterscre.com/

Follow the show here -

IG - https://instagram.com/hunters_creLinkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/hunterscommercial/FB - https://www.facebook.com/huntersphilly

Subscribe to our YouTube channel -  

https://www.youtube.com/@HuntersCommercialRealEstate

Connect with Martino Picariello here -  

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/martino-picariello-4898aa172/

IG -https://www.instagram.com/p/DFstUCLxbRi/

Connect with Nicholas Giganti

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholas-giganti-9bb4058/

IG - https://www.instagram.com/nickgigantirealestate/

In this week’s episode of Broker’s Blueprint, Nick and Martino break down exactly how to identify emerging real estate markets in Philadelphia—and how to protect yourself when investing in them.

They cover:
✅ Why areas like Kingsessing, Grays Ferry, and Port Richmond are heating up
✅ The 3 key data points to watch: permits, population, and absorption rate
✅ How Philly’s zoning laws and tax abatements are shaping future development
✅ The power of building a local team—brokers, attorneys, contractors, and bankers
✅ Red flags to watch during due diligence and how to negotiate with confidence

Whether you're buying your first investment property or scaling your portfolio, this episode gives you the playbook to make smart, data-driven moves in high-upside markets.

====

Powered by iFundCities — the lending platform built for real estate investors who move fast and think big. From fix-and-flips to long-term rentals, iFundCities offers flexible loan solutions, lightning-fast closings, and a transparent process you can count on. Ready to fund your next deal? 

Learn more at iFundCities.com.

Make sure you subscribe the podcast here -  

https://m.mtrbio.com/BrokersBlueprint

Visit our website to learn more about us -

https://www.hunterscre.com/

Follow the show here -

IG - https://instagram.com/hunters_creLinkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/hunterscommercial/FB - https://www.facebook.com/huntersphilly

Subscribe to our YouTube channel -  

https://www.youtube.com/@HuntersCommercialRealEstate

Connect with Martino Picariello here -  

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/martino-picariello-4898aa172/

IG -https://www.instagram.com/p/DFstUCLxbRi/

Connect with Nicholas Giganti

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholas-giganti-9bb4058/

IG - https://www.instagram.com/nickgigantirealestate/

This week on Broker’s Blueprint, we flip the script with the guys behind Bricks & Risk, one of the region’s fastest-growing business podcasts. Hosts Tim Garrity, a real estate developer and broker, and Sean Mooney, an independent insurance agency owner, join Nick and Martino for a candid conversation on business, brand-building, and what it really takes to last.

With 50+ episodes under their belt, Tim and Sean aren’t chasing vanity metrics—they’re building community. From real estate investing and creative content strategy to the chaos of today's insurance market, this episode pulls back the curtain on the wins, losses, and lessons behind their success.

Inside the episode:

How they built Bricks & Risk into a top resource for small business owners

Why 90% of podcasts fail—and how they stayed consistent past episode 50

What's happening in the insurance market (hint: it's ugly) and how it’s impacting real estate deals

The risks of buying out-of-state properties without trusted local teams

Why education and long-term thinking win in today’s market

You’ll also hear real-world insights on turning your primary home into a rental, navigating hard markets, and why showing up with value is the foundation of every strong brand.

🎙️ Whether you're a broker, investor, or small business owner, this one’s packed with straight-talk strategy from two guys who’ve lived it.

====

Powered by iFundCities — the lending platform built for real estate investors who move fast and think big. From fix-and-flips to long-term rentals, iFundCities offers flexible loan solutions, lightning-fast closings, and a transparent process you can count on. Ready to fund your next deal? 

Learn more at iFundCities.com.

Make sure you subscribe the podcast here -  

https://m.mtrbio.com/BrokersBlueprint

Visit our website to learn more about us -

https://www.hunterscre.com/

Follow the show here -

IG - https://instagram.com/hunters_creLinkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/hunterscommercial/FB - https://www.facebook.com/huntersphilly

Subscribe to our YouTube channel -  

https://www.youtube.com/@HuntersCommercialRealEstate

Connect with Martino Picariello here -  

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/martino-picariello-4898aa172/

IG -https://www.instagram.com/p/DFstUCLxbRi/

Connect with Nicholas Giganti

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholas-giganti-9bb4058/

IG - https://www.instagram.com/nickgigantirealestate/

In today’s volatile market, closing deals isn’t about charm, it’s about clarity. In this episode, Nick and Martino unpack how brokers, investors, and wholesalers can diagnose seller pain, overcome buyer hesitation, and navigate a landscape shaped by inflated expectations and rate uncertainty.

They share real deal stories—including contracts signed last week and dive into tactical strategies for both sides of the table:

• How to guide sellers out of outdated pricing mindsets

• What buyers need to hear when fear blocks decision-making

• The role of cap rates, area analysis, and creative financing in 2025

• And why the right questions—asked with the right tone—close more deals than any pitch

If you're working the phones or walking buildings, this is the negotiation blueprint you didn’t know you needed.

====

Powered by iFundCities — the lending platform built for real estate investors who move fast and think big. From fix-and-flips to long-term rentals, iFundCities offers flexible loan solutions, lightning-fast closings, and a transparent process you can count on. Ready to fund your next deal? 

Learn more at iFundCities.com.

Make sure you subscribe the podcast here -  

https://m.mtrbio.com/BrokersBlueprint

Visit our website to learn more about us -

https://www.hunterscre.com/

Follow the show here -

IG - https://instagram.com/hunters_creLinkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/hunterscommercial/FB - https://www.facebook.com/huntersphilly

Subscribe to our YouTube channel -  

https://www.youtube.com/@HuntersCommercialRealEstate

Connect with Martino Picariello here -  

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/martino-picariello-4898aa172/

IG -https://www.instagram.com/p/DFstUCLxbRi/

Connect with Nicholas Giganti

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholas-giganti-9bb4058/

IG - https://www.instagram.com/nickgigantirealestate/