Episode Summary

In this episode of Groundbreakers, Jack Arevalo, Director of Finance and Acquisitions at AVLV and founder of STOA Capital, shares his unique journey from capital markets to real estate development. With deep experience in finance, architecture, and community-focused projects, Jack offers an insightful look at how to approach development sustainably and holistically. He discusses the importance of hyperlocal market knowledge, creating impact-driven projects, and building vertically integrated teams that bridge architecture, development, and finance.

Key Points Discussed

• From Capital Markets to Real Estate Development: Jack’s transition from a background in finance to spearheading real estate development, focusing on sustainable and community-oriented projects.
• Philadelphia’s Market Potential: Why Jack sees Philadelphia as a prime market for real estate development, driven by its unique economic and community dynamics.
• Sustainability and Architecture: How AVLV’s vertically integrated approach ensures projects meet sustainability goals while aligning architectural vision and community needs.
• Hyperlocal Strategies: The critical role of understanding local communities and fostering relationships in real estate development for long-term success.
• Balancing Finance, Development, and Design: Insights into how AVLV combines financial discipline with architectural integrity to create value-driven investments.

Guest Information

Name: Jack Arevalo

Role: Director of Finance and Acquisitions at AVLV, Founder at STOA Capital

LinkedIn: Jack Arevalo

Website: AVLV, STOA Capital

Conclusion

Jack Arevalo's journey highlights how a holistic approach—combining finance, architecture, and development—can lead to sustainable, impactful real estate projects. His insights on the importance of hyperlocal strategies and vertically integrated operations provide valuable lessons for developers, investors, and community leaders alike. Connect with Jack on LinkedIn to learn more about his work and vision for transforming real estate in Philadelphia and beyond.

Episode Summary

In this episode of Groundbreakers, Ryan Byrne, Founder of Cash Flow Capital Club, shares his transformative journey from the stock market to building wealth through multifamily syndication. Ryan’s story highlights the power of leveraging passive investments as a limited partner (LP) to gain experience, build confidence, and transition into active roles as a general partner (GP). He dives into the strategic importance of operational efficiencies, tenant-centric improvements, and conservative planning in multifamily real estate to drive long-term returns and build resilient portfolios.

Key Points Discussed

• From Stock Market to Real Estate: Ryan’s shift from investing in stocks to focusing on real estate, highlighting how multifamily investing offered a more stable, growth-oriented strategy.
• Becoming an LP First: Ryan’s path to syndication began with passive investments, allowing him to learn from seasoned operators, build valuable connections, and gain hands-on insight before taking on active deals.
• Operational Value-Add Strategies: How Ryan and his team transform properties through operational improvements, enhancing tenant care, optimizing property management, and driving returns for investors.
• Navigating Market Challenges: Ryan’s approach to mitigating risks in today’s market with conservative underwriting, overfunding reserves, and planning for the unexpected in a rapidly shifting economy.
• Mastermind Leverage: The importance of joining a multifamily mastermind group for accelerated learning, deal access, and building meaningful relationships within the industry.

Guest Information

• Name: Ryan Byrne
• Role: Founder at Cash Flow Capital Club
• LinkedIn: Ryan Byrne
• Website: Cashflow Capital Club

Conclusion

Ryan Byrne’s journey from passive investor to multifamily syndicator offers a blueprint for those looking to scale their wealth in real estate. His emphasis on learning from industry leaders, prioritizing operational value, and navigating market challenges with strategic foresight makes this episode a valuable listen for investors at all stages. Connect with Ryan on LinkedIn to learn more about his work and explore opportunities to invest alongside him.

Episode Summary

In this episode of Groundbreakers, George and Daniel Papa, co-founders of Leather Street Realty, discuss their thoughtful journey from property management to launching a specialized real estate firm focused on the evolving market in Queens, NYC. George and Daniel share how their hyper-local knowledge and deep roots in the community provide them with unique insights to identify value in overlooked areas. They delve into the complexities of working within NYC’s rent-stabilized sector, their strategic planning for Leather Street Realty, and the critical role that relationships and market understanding play in their success.

Key Points Discussed

• From Management to Ownership: George and Daniel’s transition from established careers in property management to co-founding Leather Street Realty, with a focus on long-term value in a familiar market.
• Hyper-Local Market Insight: How the team’s deep understanding of Queens’ neighborhoods allows them to spot opportunities and anticipate growth where others might not see potential.
• Navigating NYC Rent Regulations: The team’s approach to working within NYC’s rent stabilization framework, turning regulatory constraints into strategic advantages for their investors.
• Strategic Business Launch: The thoughtful planning and groundwork that set the foundation for Leather Street Realty, ensuring a resilient business model ready for intentional growth.

Guest Information

• Name: Jorge Jorge and Daniel Papa

• Role: Co-founders of Leather Street Realty

• LinkedIn: Jorge Jorge and Daniel Papa

• Website: Leather Street Realty

Conclusion

Jorge Jorge and Daniel Papa’s journey illustrates how specialized market knowledge and strategic planning can turn a strong local presence into a valuable competitive edge in real estate. Their approach to regulation and growth within the Queens market offers lessons in adaptability and purpose-driven investing. Connect with Jorge and Daniel on LinkedIn to learn more about their work and the impact Leather Street Realty is making in NYC real estate.

Episode Summary

In this episode of Groundbreakers, Vessi Kapoulian, founder of DBA Capital Group, shares her journey from corporate finance to full-time real estate investing, detailing how she built multiple income streams to achieve financial freedom. Vessi offers valuable insights into diversifying investments, performing deep market research, and adapting creative strategies to navigate today’s challenging economic conditions. Her focus on both risk mitigation and long-term wealth creation provides an inspiring roadmap for those looking to build sustainable success in real estate.

Key Points Discussed

• From Corporate Finance to Real Estate Investing: Vessi’s transition from a secure corporate career to building her own investment portfolio, and the lessons learned from taking that leap.
• Multiple Income Streams: The importance of diversifying income sources for financial security and how Vessi built hers through a combination of real estate, passive investments, and more.
• Identifying Emerging Markets: How in-depth market research, including demographic and employment trends, helps Vessi uncover hidden opportunities in overlooked markets.
• Creative Risk Management: Vessi’s strategies for mitigating rising interest rates and insurance costs while continuing to grow her portfolio.
• Long-Term Wealth Creation: The importance of maintaining a long-term vision and consistently adapting strategies to secure lasting financial freedom.

Guest Information

• Name: Vessi Kapoulian
• Role: Managing Partner at DBA Capital Group
• LinkedIn: Vessi Kapoulian
• Website: DBA Capital Group

Conclusion

Vessi Kapoulian’s journey from corporate finance to real estate investing is a powerful example of how calculated risks and diversification can lead to financial freedom. Her insights on market research, creative risk mitigation, and building long-term wealth provide valuable lessons for both new and seasoned investors. Connect with Vessi on LinkedIn to learn more about her work at DBA Capital Group and her strategies for building a diversified portfolio.

Episode Summary

In this episode of Groundbreakers, Jefferson Ortiz, founder of Ortiz Equity Group, shares his inspiring journey from immigrating to Canada to building a $40 million multifamily real estate portfolio. Jeff discusses how he started in wholesaling before transitioning into multifamily investing, and how mentorship played a crucial role in his rapid success. He dives into his approach to creative financing, market selection, and value-add opportunities, offering listeners valuable insights into scaling a real estate portfolio.

Key Points Discussed

• From Wholesaling to Multifamily: Jeff’s transition from wholesaling real estate deals to investing in multifamily properties, and how he leveraged his early experience to scale his portfolio.
• The Power of Mentorship: How mentorship helped Jeff complete 35 wholesale deals in his first year and continues to drive his success in multifamily investing.
• Creative Financing Strategies: Jeff’s use of seller financing, fixed-rate loans, and other creative financing methods to close deals and optimize his portfolio’s growth.
• Market Selection and Demographics: Why Jeff focuses on low-vacancy, job-rich areas with strong economic diversity, and how the “Starbucks indicator” plays into his decision-making.
• Adding Value for Long-Term Success: Jeff’s approach to identifying value-add opportunities in multifamily properties, improving both tenant experience and investor returns.

Guest Information

• Name: Jefferson Ortiz
• Role: Founder at Ortiz Equity Group
• LinkedIn: Jefferson Ortiz
• Website: Ortiz Equity Group

Conclusion

Jefferson Ortiz’s story is a powerful example of how hard work, smart mentorship, and creative strategies can help scale a real estate business. His insights into financing, market selection, and long-term growth provide valuable lessons for both new and seasoned investors. Connect with Jeff on LinkedIn to learn more about his work and the vision behind Ortiz Equity Group.

Episode Summary

In this episode of Groundbreakers, Jasmine Nazari, COO of Urban Green Investments, shares her journey from an unconventional background in soil biogeochemistry to becoming a leader in urban real estate investing. Jasmine discusses the importance of strategic diversification and sustainable development, highlighting how Urban Green balances high-yield investments with positive community impact. She delves into the firm’s diversified portfolio, spanning multifamily, office spaces, and data centers, and emphasizes the role of transparency and strong investor relationships in achieving long-term success.

Key Points Discussed

• From Science to Real Estate: Jasmine’s unique journey from soil biogeochemistry to leading operations at Urban Green Investments, showcasing her passion for sustainable development.
• Strategic Diversification: How Urban Green mitigates risk and maximizes returns by diversifying its investments across various asset classes, including multifamily, office spaces, and data centers.
• Focus on Transparency: The importance of building trust and maintaining transparency with investors to foster long-term partnerships and sustainable growth.
• Sustainable Urban Development: Urban Green’s commitment to finding value in overlooked spaces, transforming them into opportunities that benefit both communities and investors.
• Navigating Market Challenges: Jasmine’s insights on identifying high-yield, risk-adjusted opportunities even in a challenging economic environment.

Guest Information

• Name: Jasmine Nazari
• Role: COO at Urban Green Investments
• LinkedIn: Jasmine Nazari
• Website: Urban Green Investments

Conclusion

Jasmine Nazari’s journey showcases the value of interdisciplinary skills and passion in the real estate sector. Her approach to sustainable urban development and strategic diversification provides valuable insights for anyone interested in real estate investing. Connect with Jasmine on LinkedIn to learn more about her work and Urban Green Investments’ mission to create lasting value through innovative real estate projects.

Episode Summary

In this episode of Groundbreakers, Max Shah, CEO of ROS Capital, shares his journey from a successful career in tech with Microsoft to becoming a real estate investor and business acquisition expert. Max provides insights into how he shifted from focusing on tech deals to mastering multifamily and commercial real estate acquisitions. He dives deep into the importance of investing in people, not just properties, and how creative deal structuring has allowed him to scale quickly. Max also opens up about the challenges he faced during the Covid-19 pandemic and how adaptability turned a near-crisis into a win for his hotel investments.

Key Points Discussed

• From Tech to Real Estate: Max’s transition from working at Microsoft to building ROS Capital, with a focus on commercial and multifamily real estate deals.
• People-Centric Investing: Why Max believes that the right team can make or break a deal and how this philosophy has driven his investment strategy.
• Creative Deal Structuring: The strategy behind acquiring high-value properties with minimal upfront capital, including a case where Max secured an $8M property with just $1M of his own investment.
• Adapting in Crisis: How Max navigated the hotel industry’s Covid-19 disruptions by leveraging local partnerships and pivoting quickly to keep his business afloat.
• Long-Term Vision: Max’s approach to building generational wealth and the importance of patience and resilience in long-term investments.

Guest Information

• Name: Max Shah
• Role: CEO at ROS Capital
• LinkedIn: Max Shah
• Company: ROS Capital

Conclusion

Max Shah’s journey from tech to real estate is a powerful example of how strategic thinking, adaptability, and focusing on the right people can lead to long-term success in business and real estate. His story offers valuable lessons for investors looking to scale creatively while maintaining a strong focus on building solid partnerships. Connect with Max on LinkedIn to learn more about his work and how ROS Capital continues to navigate and succeed in today’s real estate market.

Episode Summary

In this episode of Groundbreakers, Justin Elliott, Managing Partner at BLVD Ventures, joins us to discuss his path from corporate America to becoming a full-time real estate investor. Justin shares how his background in corporate finance helped him transition into multifamily real estate, and how building strong partnerships has been instrumental to scaling his portfolio. He also offers insights into the benefits of bringing property management in-house, the challenges of rising interest rates, and strategies for continued success in an evolving market.

Key Points Discussed

• From Corporate America to Real Estate: Justin’s transition from a corporate finance background to founding Boulevard Ventures and pursuing full-time real estate investing.
• Strategic Partnerships: The critical role of partnerships in growing BLVD Ventures and how collaboration with the right people has driven their success.
• In-House Property Management: Justin explains the decision to bring property management in-house and how it improved operational efficiency and business outcomes.
• Navigating a Shifting Market: Justin shares how BLVD Ventures continues to adapt to rising interest rates, increasing insurance costs, and other market challenges.
• Focused Market Strategy: Justin’s take on the importance of selecting markets with long-term growth potential, even in uncertain times.

Guest Information

• Name: Justin Elliott
• Role: Managing Partner at BLVD Ventures
• LinkedIn: Justin Elliott
• Website: BLVD Ventures

Conclusion

Justin Elliott’s story of transitioning from corporate America to full-time real estate investing highlights the importance of strong partnerships, operational control, and market awareness. His approach to scaling BLVD Ventures through collaboration and disciplined investment strategies provides valuable lessons for new and experienced investors alike. Connect with Justin on LinkedIn to learn more about his journey and how BLVD Ventures is positioning itself for long-term success.

Episode Summary

In this episode of Groundbreakers, Adam Dresher, Investor Relations Manager at Break of Day Capital, shares his journey from Wall Street to real estate investing. Adam discusses how his career in institutional sales and stock trading shaped his approach to raising capital and connecting with investors in multifamily real estate. He highlights the importance of empathy in building trust with investors, as well as the value of NOI-driven strategies to increase property valuations. Adam provides valuable insights on navigating the challenges of the real estate market, especially during periods of rising interest rates.

Key Points Discussed:

• From Wall Street to Real Estate: Adam’s transition from the fast-paced world of institutional sales to real estate investing and capital raising, and how his background has influenced his strategies.
• Building Investor Trust: The role empathy plays in successfully raising capital and building long-term relationships with investors by understanding their needs and goals.
• Maximizing Property Value: How Break of Day Capital boosts NOI (Net Operating Income) through strategic property improvements, including water usage efficiency, to increase valuation.
• Navigating Market Conditions: Adam’s perspective on the current real estate market, high interest rates, and how disciplined investing can help overcome challenges.
• Cold Calling Lessons: Insights into how early experiences with cold calling helped Adam build confidence in pitching and connecting with potential investors.

Guest Information:

• Name: Adam Dresher
• Role: Investor Relations Manager at Break of Day Capital
• LinkedIn: Adam Dresher
• Website: Break of Day Capital

Conclusion:

Adam Dresher’s journey from Wall Street to real estate offers practical lessons for anyone looking to raise capital and build a successful career in multifamily investing. His focus on building trust through empathy and driving value with NOI growth strategies makes this episode a must-listen for investors and operators alike. Connect with Adam on LinkedIn to learn more about his work and the impact of Break of Day Capital in the real estate industry.

Episode Summary

In this episode of Groundbreakers, Chutima Barrios, founder of Rent Roll Capital, shares her journey from private equity finance to becoming a full-time real estate investor. Chutima discusses how her background in financial analysis equipped her with the skills to scale her portfolio, and how she now helps busy professionals grow their wealth through strategic multifamily real estate investments. She highlights the power of co-investing and the importance of efficient operations in maximizing returns.

Key Points Discussed

• From Private Equity to Real Estate: Chutima’s transition from finance and corporate development to building her own real estate portfolio, and how her analytical background gives her an edge.
• Scaling Through Multifamily: How Chutima moved from investing in small properties to larger multifamily deals to maximize returns with the same effort.
• Co-Investing for Growth: Chutima’s approach to raising capital through co-investing with friends and family, making larger deals accessible without using complex jargon.
• Operational Efficiency: The importance of managing properties efficiently, controlling expenses, and partnering with strong property management teams to ensure long-term success.
• Navigating Market Challenges: Insights into how Chutima navigates challenges like rising interest rates, finding deals, and handling unexpected costs such as insurance and property taxes.

Guest Information

• Name: Chutima Barrios
• Role: Founder at Rent Roll Capital
• LinkedIn: Chutima Barrios
• Website: Rent Roll Capital

Conclusion

Chutima Barrios’ journey from private equity to full-time real estate investing offers valuable insights for professionals looking to build wealth through multifamily investments. Her focus on co-investing, operational efficiency, and scaling smartly provides a great roadmap for anyone looking to transition into real estate. Connect with Chutima on LinkedIn to learn more about her work and Rent Roll Capital’s mission to help professionals grow their wealth.