Mastering Real Estate

By Maura McGraw

I review the real estate industry's top books and share my lessons learned from 6+ years of being a full-time real estate investor.... more

5

2323 ratings

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FAQs about Mastering Real Estate:

How many episodes does Mastering Real Estate have?

The podcast currently has 33 episodes available.

Mastering Real Estate episodes:

March 07, 2024Episode 12 - Project #6 - Moldy Basements
Deal Details
Address: 4770 Elfreth Johnson Drive, Birmingham AL 35215
Type: Flip
Year Built: 1974
SF: 1,080
Mix: 3/2 (Converted to 4/2)
Year: 2019
Timeline: 5 months
Project Cost: $50,000
Purchase Price: $58,047
Rehab: $1,438
Sales Price: $80,000
Profit: $20,515
Before Photos
After Photos
Video Tour

Beware of Basements
Before buying a house with a basement, do the following:
Get it moisture-tested
Talk to local contractors about common issues with basements and have an idea of common repair costs

Don’t Partner with Contractors
Usually doesn’t work
Keep the relationship simple (trust me)

Key Takeaways:
Be careful of buying houses with basements
Don’t partner with contractors

Episode Resources:
Slideshow Link
Before Photos
After Photos
Video Tour

Check out our Master Class and learn how to start or scale your real estate investing career the right way

We also have an AWESOME newsletter that you can subscribe to here

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10min
March 05, 2024Episode 11 - The Book on Managing Rental Properties with Danny Gonzalez
Episode 11 - The Book on Managing Rental Properties
Heather and Brandon Turner’s, “The Book on Managing Rental Properties”
Overview of Heather and Brandon Turner’s backgrounds and experience
Summary of “The Book on Managing Rental Properties”
Key Concepts: 13 Principles of Being an Incredible Landlord
Interview and book review with Danny Gonzalez about all things property management, including how to find a good property manager and great interview questions to ask.
Key Takeaways and Action Steps
3 Key Takeaways: #1--Be Firm, Fair, and Consistent, #13 Principles of Being a Good Landlord, #3–Find a Property Manager that Aligns with Your Values
This Book is great for...anyone interested in becoming a landlord
Overall Book Rating: 8 / 10
Informative and well-organized
Full of additional downloadable resources
Does not cover state-specific regulations
Episode Resources:
Slideshow
Key Concept Flashcards
Freedom Ventures Property Management
Follow Danny: @dannyg.realestate

Check out our Master Class and learn how to start or scale your real estate investing career the right way.

We also have an AWESOME newsletter that you can subscribe to here.

Follow Duratus:
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55min
February 29, 2024Episode 10 - Project #5: Avoid Flood Zones
Deal Details
Address: 720 Earline St, Birmingham, AL 35215
Type: Rental Property
Year: 2018
Timeline: 1 month
Purchase Price: $50,000
Rehab: $0
Sales Price: $154,000
Profit: $100,000

Avoid Flood Zones
We got it for a steal ($50K).....because it was in a flood zone. But I was still new to the industry and an idiot then and did not know to check on this at first. Now I know ALWAYS to check the FEMA Flood Map Service up front to see if a property is in a flood zone.
Properties in flood zones can be harder to sell and will cost a lot in extra insurance

Key Takeaways:
Watch out for flood zones–ALWAYS check the FEMA Flood Map Service
Carefully screen your tenants
Buy rental properties that will not have a lot of maintenance issues in the future

Episode Resources:
Slideshow Link
Photos

Check out our Master Class and learn how to start or scale your real estate investing career the right way

We also have an AWESOME newsletter that you can subscribe to here

Follow Duratus:
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Newsletter
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Follow Maura:
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9min
February 27, 2024Episode 9 - The Highest Calling
Episode 9 - The Highest Calling
Larry Janesky’s “The Highest Calling”
Overview of Larry Janesky’s background and experience
Summary of “The Highest Calling”
Key Concepts: 7 Components of a Successful Business
Key Takeaways and Action Steps
3 Key Takeaways: #1--Success Starts with YOU, #2–Serve Others, #3–Be Happy Now
This Book is great for...all business owners, especially contractors
Overall Book Rating: 9 / 10
Enjoyable
Quick
Relatable
Motivational
Full of wisdom

Episode Resources:
Slideshow
Key Concept Flashcards

Check out our Master Class and learn how to start or scale your real estate investing career the right way.
We also have an AWESOME newsletter that you can subscribe to here.

Follow Duratus:
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Subscribe to Our Newsletter
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Bigger Pockets
...more
19min
February 22, 2024Episode 8 - Project #4 - How to Sell Off Market
Episode 8 - Project #4: How to Sell Off Market
Deal Details
Address: 208 Meadowdale Ave, Birmingham, AL 35215
Type: Flip
Year: 2019
Timeline: 2.5 months
Project Cost: $62,000
Purchase Price: $58,000
Rehab: $2,219
Sales Price: $80,000
Profit: $12,957

Selling Off Market
I got this house because it was not selling on the market, so I had to figure out how to sell it off-market. Luckily, I was already connected with a few turnkey providers and was able to line up an off-market sale relatively quickly and easily.

Key Takeaways:
Do quick projects at the beginning of your REI journey
Cultivate relationships with turnkey providers to give yourself an off-market sales pool
Network like Crazy

Episode Resources:
Slideshow Link
House Tour
After Photos

Check out our Master Class and learn how to start or scale your real estate investing career the right way

We also have an AWESOME newsletter that you can subscribe to here

Follow Duratus:
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Newsletter
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Follow Maura:
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Bigger Pockets
...more
8min
February 20, 2024Episode 7 - Real Estate by the Numbers
Episode 7 - Real Estate by the Numbers
J Scott’ and Dave Meyer’s book “Real Estate by the Numbers.”
Overview of J Scott and Dave Meyer’s backgrounds and experience
Summary of “Real Estate by the Numbers,” and the four parts of the book
Key concepts from each part of the book
Key Takeaways and Action Steps
3 Key Takeaways: #1--Track Your Net Worth, 2–Learn Basic Financial Modeling, 3–Learn About Taxes (hire a good CPA)
This Book is great for...people who like reading textbooks.
Overall Book Rating: 3 / 10
Good information
Almost impossible to get through

Join us on this journey to master real estate and unlock the secrets to long-term wealth!
Subscribe for weekly insights and actionable tips to propel your success in the dynamic world of real estate.

Episode Resources:
Slideshow
Key Concept Flashcards
Recommended Real Estate Financial Modeling Class

Also, check out OUR Master Class and learn how to start or scale your real estate investing career the right way.

We also have an AWESOME newsletter that you can subscribe to here.

Follow Duratus:
Website
Subscribe to Our Newsletter
Facebook
LinkedIn
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YouTube
Pinterest
TikTok

Follow Maura:
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Instagram
Pinterest
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Bigger Pockets
...more
18min
February 15, 2024Episode 6 - Project #3: Multiple Exit Strategies
Episode 6 - Project #3: Multiple Exit Strategies
Deal Details
Address: 3613 Oakwood Drive, Adamsville AL 35005
Type: Flip
Year: 2018
Timeline: 5 months
Project Cost: $62,000
Purchase Price: $55,000
Rehab: $6,620
Sales Price: $106,000
Profit: $40,000

Losing A Lender
In the initial stages, Maura faced adversity as her hard money lender backed out a week before closing. This forced her to quickly learn how to pitch to and find a private investor to fund the deal–a tough but very valuable lesson.

Always Have a Backup
Losing my initial lender also taught me always to have a backup plan–not only for my financing but for the investment as a whole. This particular project was a great flip, but could have also easily been a buy-and-hold rental property. The fact that we had a backup plan for the property was key in securing last-minute private funding for the deal.

Key Takeaways:
If the deal is good enough, the money will come
Have multiple exit strategies for your investment properties
Episode Resources:
Slideshow Link
After Photos
Check out our Master Class and learn how to start or scale your real estate investing career the right way

Follow Duratus:
Website: https://www.duratusacademy.com/
Newsletter: https://duratusproperties.activehosted.com/f/20
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DuratusProperties/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/duratus-properties/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/duratusp?lang=en
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/duratusproperties/?hl=en
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKftkw4eAzd4DPBGIXruo1g
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/DuratusProperties/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@duratusproperties

Follow Maura:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=5320733
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maura-mcgraw/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/maura_mcgraw
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maurakmcgraw/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mauramcgraw/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@realestatemamma
Bigger Pockets: https://www.biggerpockets.com/users/mauramcgraw

We also have an AWESOME newsletter that you can subscribe to here
...more
9min
February 13, 2024Episode 5 - Recession Proof Real Estate Investing
Episode 5 - Recession-Proof Real Estate Investing
J Scott’s "Recession-Proof Real Estate Investing”
Overview of J Scott, his background, and experience.
Summary of "Recession-Proof Real Estate Investing” and the different methods to safeguard investments and capitalize on opportunities in the various economic phases.
The 4 phases are: 1–Expansion Phase, 2–the Peak Phase, 3–the Recession, and 4–the Recovery phase.
Key Takeaways and Action Steps
Two Key Takeaways: #1--Learn to recognize each phase of the cycle; #2-Discuss how to adapt your strategy to each phase
This Book is great for...Moderately Experienced Investors and Real Estate Professionals.
Overall Book Rating: 6 / 10
Well organized
Good info
A bit dry
Join us on this journey to master real estate and unlock the secrets to long-term wealth!
Subscribe for weekly insights and actionable tips to propel your success in the dynamic world of real estate.

Episode Resources:
Episode Resources
Key Concept Flashcards
Show Notes

Check out our Master Class and learn how to start or scale your real estate investing career correctly.

We also have an AWESOME newsletter that you can subscribe to here.

Follow Duratus:
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Subscribe to Our Newsletter
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Follow Maura:
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Bigger Pockets
...more
31min
February 08, 2024Episode 4 - Project #2: Beware of Hard Money Lenders
Episode 4 - Project #2: Beware of Hard Money Lenders
Deal Details
Address: 1120 Sardis Rd, Gardendale AL 35071
Type: Flip
Year: 2018
Timeline: 2 months
Project Cost: $98,000
Purchase Price: $70,000
Rehab: $16,000
Sales Price: $124,000
Profit: $21,000

Losing A Lender
In the initial stages, Maura faced adversity as her hard money lender backed out a week before closing. A valuable lesson was learned – caution when choosing hard money lenders, and the importance of recommendations from trusted sources. Amidst graduate school commitments and a challenging schedule, Maura hustled to secure funding, emphasizing the pressure and challenges of this pivotal moment.

A Twist of Luck
Against the odds, Maura shares how a fortunate turn of events during a real estate case competition in San Francisco led her to a potential investor, Aziz. What seemed like just funding for a deal turned out to be the start of a much more significant partnership. Aziz, initially an investor, would later become Maura's business partner in Duratus Properties.

The Turning Point:
Following a challenging first project, this flip went relatively smoothly. The house, located in a favorable area, saw a conservative rehab estimate and was completed under budget in less than 30 days. Maura delivered a healthy profit, building confidence and resilience along the way.
Key Takeaways:
Caution with Lenders: Beware of hard money lenders; opt for reputable and trusted sources.
Conservative Estimates: Be conservative with rehab estimates and proformas to navigate unforeseen challenges effectively.

Episode Resources:
Slideshow Link
Before Photos
After Photos

Check out our Master Class and learn how to start or scale your real estate investing career the right way

We also have an AWESOME newsletter that you can subscribe to here

Follow Duratus:
Website: https://www.duratusacademy.com/
Newsletter: https://duratusproperties.activehosted.com/f/20
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DuratusProperties/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/duratus-properties/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/duratusp?lang=en
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/duratusproperties/?hl=en
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKftkw4eAzd4DPBGIXruo1g
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/DuratusProperties/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@duratusproperties

Follow Maura:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=5320733
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maura-mcgraw/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/maura_mcgraw
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maurakmcgraw/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mauramcgraw/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@realestatemamma
Bigger Pockets: https://www.biggerpockets.com/users/mauramcgraw
...more
9min
February 06, 2024Episode 3 - Cashflow Quadrant
Episode 3 - Cashflow Quadrant
Robert Kiyosaki's "Cashflow Quadrant"
An overview of the author, Robert Kiyosaki, his background, and his significant impact on financial education.
The book introduces the Cashflow Quadrant, categorizing ways of earning money into Employee (E), Self-Employed (S), Business Owner (B), and Investor (I).
Kiyosaki emphasizes the importance of transitioning towards big business ownership and investing for financial freedom.
Key Takeaways and Action Steps
Four Key Takeaways: #1-Complete a PFS and set financial goals; #2-Minimize spending, debt and liabilities and pay yourself first; #3-Decide what type of investor you want to be; #4-Begin investing today.
This Book is great for...Aspiring Investors and Aspiring Business Owners.
Overall Book Rating: 8 / 10
Quick and easy read
Easy to Understand
Actionable and motivational
Join us on this journey to master real estate and unlock the secrets to long-term wealth!
Subscribe for weekly insights and actionable tips to propel your success in the dynamic world of real estate.

Episode Resources:
Slideshow
Key Concept Flashcards

Check out our Master Class and learn how to start or scale your real estate investing career the right way.
We also have an AWESOME newsletter that you can subscribe to here.

Follow Duratus:
Website
Subscribe to Our Newsletter
Facebook
LinkedIn
Instagram
YouTube
Pinterest
TikTok

Follow Maura:
Facebook
Instagram
Pinterest
TikTok
Bigger Pockets
...more
25min

FAQs about Mastering Real Estate:

How many episodes does Mastering Real Estate have?

The podcast currently has 33 episodes available.