Think you need years of experience or loads of cash to invest in multifamily? Think again. In this solo episode, Michael Blank busts the two biggest myths that keep people from getting started in apartment syndications: lack of experience and lack of capital. He shares real-life strategies for building a winning team, raising money as a beginner, and scaling fast—even if you're starting from scratch.

Key Takeaways:

• Experience ≠ Access: Multifamily brokers care more about your team’s track record than yours.
• Build the Right Team: Partner with experienced operators, lenders, and property managers to gain instant credibility.
• Capital Raising Is a Learnable Skill: You don’t need your own money—just the ability to educate and connect with potential investors.
• Focus on “Who,” Not “How”: Don’t try to do everything. Find partners who fill your gaps.
• Anyone Can Start: With the right mindset and system, beginners have raised millions—even on their first deal

Facebook

Instagram

YouTube

TikTok

TheFreedomPodcast.com 

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Explore Michael’s Mentoring Program

Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club

Review the Podcast on Apple Podcasts

Syndicated Deal Analyzer

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank 

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session473/

In this episode of the Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing podcast, I sit down with two of our Deal Maker Mentoring students — Ryan Kindred and Russell Cannon — who broke free from the grind and did something most people only talk about: they bought a 240-unit self-storage facility and raised $1.9 million to do it.

Ryan and Russ didn’t grow up in real estate. They weren’t born entrepreneurs. But they took action, surrounded themselves with the right people, and now they’re building a portfolio that’s changing their lives forever.

Whether you're a high-income earner ready to pivot, or a burned-out investor trying to scale, this episode is packed with real talk, tactical steps, and one heck of a comeback story.

From the Corporate Grind to Full-Time Investors

• Ryan was managing $200M in power systems. Russ ran $100M+ construction projects. Both felt stuck.
• 
  
• They knew their time wasn’t really theirs, and they were done trading hours for dollars.
• 
  
• This is how they made the leap — while still working full-time — and never looked back.
• 
  

Crushing Limiting Beliefs That Keep Most People on the Sidelines

• “I don’t have the money.” “I’ve never done this before.” “Who’s gonna invest with me?” Sound familiar?
• 
  
• Ryan & Russ had every reason to stay in their comfort zone — but they didn’t.
• 
  
• You’ll hear exactly what shifted their mindset and how you can do the same.
• 
  

Behind the Scenes of Their $1.9M Raise on a 240-Unit Deal

• How they found this off-market self-storage opportunity
• 
  
• Step-by-step of how they raised $1.9M in equity — without a big investor list
• 
  
• The six-figure acquisition fee they earned and how they set themselves up for long-term cash flow
• 
  

Why Mentorship and Community Made All the Difference

• The moment they realized they couldn’t do it alone
• 
  
• How they leveraged our team, the community, and deal support to get across the finish line
• 
  
• What actually moves the needle when you’re doing your first commercial deal
• 
  

What’s Next: Scaling Up & Building a Real Estate Business

• Ryan and Russ aren’t stopping at one deal — they’re already teeing up the next
• 
  
• Their 3-5 year vision: more deals, more cash flow, and total lifestyle freedom
• 
  
• How they’re using this deal as a launchpad to financial freedom
• 
  

LinkedIn - Ryan Kindred

LinkedIn - Russell Cannon

Sable Capital Website

Facebook

Instagram

YouTube

TikTok

TheFreedomPodcast.com 

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Explore Michael’s Mentoring Program

Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club

Review the Podcast on Apple Podcasts

Syndicated Deal Analyzer

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank 

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session472/

If you think property management is just about collecting rent and fixing toilets, you're leaving serious money on the table.

In this episode, I’m sitting down with Robert Parmar to talk about how the best operators are using systems and tech to run their properties more profitably — and why poor management is the fastest way to kill your financial freedom.

Robert’s pulling back the curtain on the biggest mistakes property managers make (and what it’s really costing you), the secret sauce that separates good from great, and the practical systems you can use to finally step out of the day-to-day — without sacrificing profits.

Whether you're managing yourself or outsourcing it, if you want more cash flow, less stress, and more freedom, you can't afford to miss this one.

Leveraging Technology for Better Remote Management

• Why top property managers are heavily investing in tech tools and automation.
• How the right systems can reduce vacancy, boost cash flow, and create a "set-it-and-forget-it" ownership experience.
• Examples of technology Robert uses to deliver better tenant experiences and operational efficiencies.

Biggest Mistakes Property Managers Make

• The "set it and forget it" myth: why poor communication is the fastest way to lose owners and tenants.
• Overlooking preventative maintenance and its long-term cost.
• The importance of hiring based on cultural fit—not just experience.

What Makes a Great Property Manager Stand Out

• Proactive communication and transparent reporting as a key differentiator.
• Why having a true investor mindset (not just a service mindset) sets the best managers apart.
• The power of KPIs: which numbers your property manager must track to ensure you're hitting your investment targets.

Property Management Best Practices that Crush

• Structured onboarding processes for new properties to set expectations early.
• Regular financial and operational reviews (not just quarterly).
• Strategic tenant retention tactics that reduce turnover and boost lifetime value.

[email protected]

LinkedIn

Facebook

Instagram

YouTube

TikTok

TheFreedomPodcast.com

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Explore Michael’s Mentoring Program

Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club

Review the Podcast on Apple Podcasts

Syndicated Deal Analyzer

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session471/

In this solo episode, Michael Blank shares the raw truth behind why he stopped flipping houses and made the game-changing leap into multifamily investing. He breaks down the exact moment that shift happened, how it transformed his life and finances, and why multifamily syndication is hands-down the fastest, safest, and most scalable path to financial freedom with real estate.

Key Takeaways:

• Flipping Wasn’t Freedom: Even successful flipping felt like another job with no scalability or passive income.
• Multifamily = Mailbox Money: One 12-unit deal opened Michael’s eyes to the power of passive income.
• Syndications Create Wealth Fast: With acquisition fees and cash flow, you can quit your job after just 1–2 deals.
• Multifamily Is Low Risk: Stronger tenant diversification and long-term demand make it more recession-proof than single family.
• You Don’t Need Experience or Cash: You can start by building a team and learning to raise capital.

Facebook

Instagram

YouTube

TikTok

TheFreedomPodcast.com 

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Explore Michael’s Mentoring Program

Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club

Review the Podcast on Apple Podcasts

Syndicated Deal Analyzer

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank 

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session470/

In this episode, Michael Blank and Garrett Lynch talk with Axel Ragnarsson, who scaled from self-funding small multifamily deals to building a 500+ unit portfolio and raising over $15 million in capital. Axel shares the turning point that forced him to move beyond his DIY approach, how he overcame mental blocks around partnering and raising money, and what it really takes to grow in today’s market. Whether you're early in your investing journey or looking to level up, Axel’s story offers powerful insights.

Key Takeaways:

• Self-Funding Has Limits: Axel built up to 70 units on his own, but liquidity challenges and stress forced him to rethink his approach and start partnering.
• Mindset is Everything: His biggest obstacle wasn’t skill—it was fear of raising capital and losing control. Overcoming that changed everything.
• Adapt or Miss Out: In today’s shifting market, underwriting must adjust constantly. Flat rents and rising interest rates mean conservative assumptions are critical.
• Scale with Purpose: You don’t have to grow endlessly. Axel is evaluating whether to stay put or expand into new markets—and why lifestyle alignment matters.

Facebook

Instagram

YouTube

TikTok

TheFreedomPodcast.com 

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Explore Michael’s Mentoring Program

Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club

Review the Podcast on Apple Podcasts

Syndicated Deal Analyzer

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank 

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session469/

In this special episode of the Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing podcast, Michael Blank sits down with his mentors—Barry Flavin, Brad Tacia, Jonathan Nichols, Paula Nichols, and Philippe Schulligen—for a powerhouse discussion. These incredible mentors, who’ve helped countless students achieve their multifamily investing goals, share their wisdom, personal journeys, and actionable tips for getting started or scaling up in real estate. Whether you’re working on your first deal or growing your portfolio, this episode is packed with inspiration and strategies to guide you to financial freedom.

Key Takeaways:

• Current Market Outlook: Despite uncertain times, the mentors agree on being bullish about the multifamily market's long-term prospects. They emphasize ongoing housing demand and discuss factors like rent increases and occupancy rates that strengthen the sector.
• The Role of Brokers: Building strong relationships with brokers is crucial for consistent deal flow. The mentors share strategies for establishing these connections, highlighting the advantages of frequent communication and personal meetings.
• Student Success Stories: Real-world examples illustrate how students are finding and closing deals—often through creative financing solutions like seller financing. A common theme is the powerful combination of consistency and leveraging mentorship to make informed decisions.
• Capital Raising Strategies: Distinguishing between deal finders and capital raisers, the panel discusses tailoring approaches to suit different personalities and skill sets. They also underline the importance of using personal networks, social media, and educational content to attract investors.
• The Value of Mentorship: The mentors highlight the dual benefits of mentorship in keeping students on track and opening pathways for scaling more quickly. They stress the significance of being "all in" and actively engaging in the process to maximize the benefits of mentorship.

This episode is packed with actionable insights and real-life examples from the world of multifamily syndication. If you are looking to delve deeper into real estate investing and have access to expert guidance, consider exploring mentorship options on theMichaelBlanc.com/mentor.

Jonathan’s Mentor Bio

Paula’s Mentor Bio

Apogee Capital

Paula Instagram

Jonathan Instagram

Mentor Bio

Boost Capital Group

Philippe LinkedIn

Facebook

Instagram

YouTube

TikTok

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Explore Michael’s Mentoring Program

Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club

Review the Podcast on Apple Podcasts

Syndicated Deal Analyzer

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank 

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session468/

In this episode, Michael Blank delves into the art of raising capital for real estate, highlighting the importance of using other people's money to build a real estate empire. He discusses the common mistakes people make when raising capital and shares insights on overcoming these challenges.

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding Limiting Beliefs:
• Many aspiring real estate investors struggle with the idea of raising capital due to limiting beliefs, such as "I can't do it," "I don't know anyone with money," and fear of using sales tactics.
• Avoiding Common Mistakes:
• Going online for raising money without prior experience is a common mistake.
• Assuming the money will follow once you have a deal is misleading.
• Start raising capital before securing a deal by using a sample deal package.
• The Importance of Networking and Education:
• Real estate investors should educate themselves and others about the benefits of real estate investing.
• Networking and leaving a positive impression are crucial in building relationships with potential investors.
• Referrals and Expanding Your Network:
• Always ask for referrals to expand your network and potential investor base.
• Stay in touch with potential investors to nurture relationships.
• Leveraging IRA Money:
• Many people have significant funds in IRAs or 401(k)s. Educate potential investors on how they can invest their IRA money in real estate.
• Scaling by Raising Money Online:
• Once you've raised money one-on-one successfully, transition to online platforms to scale up.
• Building a strong online presence requires more than just a website; it involves creating valuable content and having a clear target audience.
• The Who, Not How Mentality:
• Emphasize finding partners who can help fill gaps, such as those who can raise funds while you focus on finding deals.

Facebook

Instagram

YouTube

TikTok

TheFreedomPodcast.com 

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Explore Michael’s Mentoring Program

Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club

Review the Podcast on Apple Podcasts

Syndicated Deal Analyzer

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank 

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session467/

In this episode of The Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing podcast, Michael Blank sits down with Scott Todd, a Deal Maker who successfully transitioned into multifamily real estate. Scott shares how he closed his first deal, the key lessons he learned along the way, and how he overcame the fear and obstacles that stop many investors from taking action. If you’re on the fence about multifamily investing, this episode is packed with practical insights that will give you the confidence to move forward.

• How Scott Got Started in Real Estate
• Transitioned from his previous career into real estate.
• Discovered multifamily investing as the fastest way to financial freedom.
• Started with no prior experience but took action to learn the process.
• Lessons from His First Multifamily Deal
• The biggest challenges he faced and how he overcame them.
• How he structured his deal and raised capital as a first-time investor.
• What he would do differently if starting over today.
• Overcoming Fear and Taking Action
• The mindset shift that helped him push past self-doubt.
• How he took the leap despite not having a perfect plan.
• Why waiting for the perfect time will only slow you down.
• Finding the Right Support System
• The importance of mentors and networking in real estate.
• How joining a like-minded community accelerated his success.
• Why trying to do everything alone is a costly mistake.
• Scaling Beyond the First Deal
• How closing his first deal changed everything.
• The next steps he’s taking to grow his portfolio.
• Advice for new investors looking to get their first deal done.

LinkedIn

Facebook

Instagram

YouTube

TikTok

TheFreedomPodcast.com 

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Explore Michael’s Mentoring Program

Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club

Review the Podcast on Apple Podcasts

Syndicated Deal Analyzer

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank 

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session466/

Welcome to another episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing! In this special episode, we bring you a deep dive into Nighthawk Equity with all the partners in the house – Garrett Lynch, Drew Kniffin, and our very own Michael Blank. It's been a while since the last team update, which was back in episode 414, where we discussed a deal that we didn't do.

This time, we're pulling back the curtain to share where Nighthawk started, the lessons learned, and what lies ahead in their journey to scale and face market challenges.

On this episode, Michael, Drew, and Garrett discuss everything from the origins of Nighthawk, the trials of joint ventures, the importance of asset management, to mastering the art of raising capital. Learn about their transition to focusing deeper into specific geographies and how they're adapting to today's market conditions.

Key Takeaways:

• A Glimpse into Nighthawk's Origin Story
• How Garrett joined through the Deal Desk with a challenging El Paso deal
• The evolution from joint ventures to focus and scale
• The Importance of Focus and Geography
• The shift from multiple markets to being deeply rooted in Atlanta
• Economies of scale and operational efficiency as major benefits
• Mastering Asset Management
• Why executing the business plan is crucial for financial success
• Enhancing procedures and systems for operational excellence
• Challenges and Innovations in Raising Capital
• Introduction of fund managers with Fund of Funds program
• Experimentation with paid Facebook advertising for scaling capital raise
• The Secret Sauce Behind Partnership Longevity
• Open communication and radical candor as key to sustained collaboration
• Defining roles and respecting decision-making processes
• Market Insights and Future Outlook
• Navigating current economic conditions
• Strategies to seize opportunities in the coming years

Join the Nighthawk team as they reflect on their past, share valuable insights into their operations, and look forward with anticipation to what’s next in real estate investing. If you're ready to take the next steps toward financial freedom, whether actively or passively, they're here to guide you.

Visit thefreedompodcast.com to discover resources customized for your journey. Whether you're looking to find deals as an operator or become a passive investor, this is your starting point.

Catch the energy of this episode, and as always, happy investing!

For more information on achieving financial freedom through real estate investing, visit thefreedompodcast.com.

Let's get you one step closer to financial independence!

Facebook

Instagram

YouTube

TikTok

TheFreedomPodcast.com 

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Explore Michael’s Mentoring Program

Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club

Review the Podcast on Apple Podcasts

Syndicated Deal Analyzer

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank 

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session465/

Are you intrigued by the current state of the real estate market? Curious about how drastic changes over the past two years have impacted multifamily investing?

Join hosts Michael Blank and Garrett Lynch as they dissect the whirlwind shifts in the real estate market, akin to a 7 to 10 year cycle compressed into just two years. Today’s episode tackles the burning question: Is now the right time to dive into multifamily investing or should you hold off for a more stable market?

Michael and Garrett kick off the conversation by discussing the importance of adapting investment strategies in line with market cycles, underscoring that timing the market shouldn’t be the primary focus. They delve into how conservative underwriting can shield investors from making costly mistakes, especially in volatile conditions.

Listen in as the hosts explore what has changed dramatically over the past two years, including interest rates, loan terms, and the risk-adjusted returns that investors should be aware of. They also draw parallels to the 2008 financial crisis, offering insights on how the current environment might mirror opportunities seen in the past.

Key Takeaways

• Market Timing vs. Strategy Development
• The pitfalls of attempting to time the market
• Importance of a strategic approach based on market cycles
• Shifts in Risk-Adjusted Returns
• Historic low interest rates two years ago versus the current environment
• How increased interest rates and lowered leverage affect pricing
• Adapting Strategies as Operators
• The need for flexible underwriting and deal management
• Selling and holding decisions based on market conditions
• Multifamily Market Dynamics
• Impact of rapid rate hikes and leverage restrictions
• The forecast of cap rates and their implications for investors
• Strategies for Success
• Importance of conservative assumptions in current deals
• Leveraging past market experiences to predict future opportunities

In this episode, Michael and Garrett provide valuable insights for both passive investors and those looking to actively engage in multifamily real estate. They encourage listeners to assess their investment strategies, considering both the current environment and future market potential.

For more resources and to engage with the hosts on this topic, visit: thefreedompodcast.com. Tune in to explore whether now is the opportune moment for your next real estate investment!

Facebook

Instagram

YouTube

TikTok

TheFreedomPodcast.com 

Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Explore Michael’s Mentoring Program

Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club

Review the Podcast on Apple Podcasts

Syndicated Deal Analyzer

Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank 

For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session464/