Partnerships are one of the most common ways real estate businesses get started and one of the biggest reasons they fall apart. In this episode, Marcus Crigler breaks down why most partnerships fail, what causes the friction, and how you can protect yourself before emotions get involved.

Marcus explains why partnerships often work during the startup phase but break down once the business grows, money increases, and each partner’s goals start going in different directions.

If you are currently in a partnership, thinking about starting one, or trying to exit one, this episode is for you!

You’ll Learn How To:

• Identify the early warning signs that a partnership is drifting apart
• Strengthen your operating agreement so it protects you
• Decide whether you should hire someone or make them a partner
• Communicate clearly so both sides walk away without destroying the business

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

(01:58) Most real estate businesses start as partnerships

(02:46) The hidden reason good partners eventually grow apart

(03:31) How a CPA sees partnership problems six months early

(04:17) The poorly written operating agreements

(04:47) What happens to money, leases, assets, and employees during a split

(06:47) What should be inside a real operating agreement

(07:34) How to avoid making your exit expensive and ugly

(08:23) The truth about giving equity vs. hiring talent

(10:06) Employees vs. partners: the cleanest way to grow your team

(11:19) Where to start if you are trying to leave a partnership

(12:51) Three scenarios Marcus sees most often and how to handle them

Who This Episode Is For:

• Business partners who want to protect their relationship and their company
• Entrepreneurs who are thinking about bringing on a partner
• Operators who are stuck in a partnership that no longer works
• Founders who want a clean, fair, and legally sound exit strategy

Why You Should Listen:

A partnership can be the best thing you ever do or the most expensive mistake you ever make. If you want clarity and confidence in how you work with or separate from a partner, this episode is worth your time.

Connect with Marcus Crigler:

• Website: https://beccfo.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-crigler-cpa-977a45b7 
• Facebook: https://facebook.com/marcus.crigler