Financial Sandbox Lessons from 40 Years in Real Estate and Lending Meet Mortgage Veteran Mitchell Chernock After more than 40 years in mortgage lending and real estate finance, Mitchell Chernock has learned that the biggest financial mistakes aren't caused by interest rates—they're caused by making decisions without a plan. In a recent conversation with Herb, Mitchell shared practical insights on wealth building, homeownership, real estate investing, and why understanding a client's long-term goals matters more than simply quoting loan rates. The discussion explored everything from investment properties, ADUs, renovation financing, and DSCR loans to Delaware Statutory Trusts (DSTs), 1031 exchanges, and the challenges facing today's buyers in a competitive housing market. One of Mitchell's strongest messages was that successful investing isn't about chasing the next hot deal—it's about creating a strategy that supports your family, your lifestyle, and your future. His advice? Don't focus on getting rich. Focus on building wealth. For Mitchell, wealth means far more than money. It means creating opportunities for future generations, making thoughtful financial decisions, and building a life centered around family, health, and purpose. Watch Herb's full conversation with Mitchell Chernock as they discuss real estate investing, mortgage lending, ADUs, 1031 exchanges, wealth building, and the lessons learned from more than four decades helping people achieve their financial goals. Mitchell Chernock is a mortgage banker, real estate finance professional, author, and poet with more than 40 years of experience in lending, construction financing, and real estate investment. A San Francisco native, he specializes in renovation loans, ADU financing, 1031 exchanges, DSTs, and financing solutions for homeowners and investors. Mitchell is also the author of Breathe for Me. ### Because investor situations and objectives vary this information is not intended to indicate suitability or a recommendation for any individual investor. The information herein has been prepared for educational purposes only and does not constitute an offer to purchase or sell investments. This material is not to be interpreted as tax or legal advice. Please speak with your own tax and legal advisors for advice/guidance regarding your particular situation. Securities offered through Concorde Investment Services, LLC (CIS), member FINRA/SIPC. Insurance offered through Concorde Insurance Agency Inc. (CIA). Thornwood Financial is independent of CIA and CIA., a memoir exploring love, loss, faith, and resilience. He has been married to his wife, Durell, for 44 years and is the proud father, grandfather, and great-grandfather of a growing family. Check out Herb Alston at: herbalston-northerncalifornia.sites.cbmoxi.com linkedin.com/in/1031exchangeguru