Path To Passive: Real Estate Investing For Technology Professionals

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What if you found out there’s money sitting on the table? Money that could save your real estate project or put more cash in your pocket? In this episode, Steven talks with Charles de Jager, CEO of Energy Credit Consulting, about how energy incentives can help both developers and investors save big. Whether you're starting a new build or renovating an existing property, Charles explains how smart design choices can lead to major savings, sometimes even million-dollar payouts. He breaks down why utility companies are paying you to use less energy, how the rules work, and why most people don’t even realize this money is available. If you're a developer, owner, or investor, this episode will help you understand how energy credits affect your returns and what to ask your team to make sure you're not missing out.

Charles L. de Jager is the Founder and Principal Engineer at Energy Credit Consulting, a firm focused on helping property developers, real estate owners, and investors secure financial incentives and energy credits to reduce project costs and increase returns.

With a background in engineering and deep expertise in energy code compliance, Charles has worked with both large-scale developers and smaller ownership groups across the U.S. His company supports projects through energy modeling, utility rebate optimization, and strategic consulting during both design and post-construction phases.

Originally trained as an engineer, Charles is passionate about bringing clarity and cost-saving solutions to a space that’s often misunderstood or overlooked. He currently leads his team from Ocoee, Florida, and has helped clients capture millions in previously untapped incentives.

Connect with Charles:
Website: https://energycreditconsulting.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charles-de-jager-053661143/


Episode highlights:
(0:00) Intro
(3:49) Meet Charles DeJager and his work in Energy Credit Consulting
(8:31) The real reason energy incentives exist
(11:01) Breaking down how power and subsidies work
(19:07) Two main types of incentives and how to access them
(23:44) How Charles helps property owners save upfront and get paid later
(31:30) When and how payouts happen
(39:52) Common misconceptions and real-world developer frustrations
(48:29) Charles’ unexpected path into the energy space
(56:34) How to get in touch and take the next step
(59:00) Outro

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Share this with your tech friends who you think would benefit from learning about passive income and alternative real estate investments. 

For more resources and guides, check these out:

Crack the Code https://www.aritacapital.com/crack-the-code/

Investor 101 https://www.aritacapital.com/investor-101-resource/

Due Diligence Resource https://www.aritacapital.com/dd-checklist-resource/

If you want to learn more, reach out at:

Email: [email protected]

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/aritasteven/

IG:  https://www.instagram.com/the.real.arita

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Is chasing high returns worth the stress, or is steady, reliable income the real goal? In this episode of Path to Passive, host Steven Arita sits down with Ruben Izgelov, co-founder of WeLend, to talk about why more investors, especially tech professionals, are turning to private lending for consistent monthly cash flow. Ruben shares how he went from high school dropout to successful attorney and fund manager, what changed his thinking about risk, and why private lending could be the safest way to earn double-digit returns today. They also talk through whether passive income can replace your salary, how much you actually need to invest, and whether owning real estate still makes sense for building generational wealth.

Ruben Izgelov started as a first-generation immigrant hustling in Queens, NY, learning real estate by age 13. After years of flipping homes and dealing with unreliable lenders, he co-founded We Lend, a national private lending platform built by investors, for investors, which has funded over $600 million with zero principal loss. He also co-founded States Capital, a real estate debt fund helping LPs invest passively in real estate-backed assets. Ruben brings together street-smart experience, a J.D., and a sharp focus on building scalable systems in real estate finance.

Connect with Ruben:

Website: www.welendllc.com
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rubenizgelov
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/welendllc

Episode highlights:
(0:00) Intro
(2:00) Ruben’s story: dropout to the top of law school
(3:59) Becoming a private lender after law school
(7:00) Why private lending made more sense than flipping
(10:52) Active vs passive investing: who should do what
(14:00) What WeLend fund investors are really buying
(20:01) What is a bridge loan and why it matters
(28:04) What happens if a deal goes wrong?
(33:25) Cash flow vs building net worth
(41:00) Should tech pros cash out stock to invest?
(44:03) Minimum investment and share classes
(49:00) What trends are Ruben watching in real estate?
(50:27) Is there depreciation in private lending?
(51:00) How to connect with Ruben

—

Share this with your tech friends who you think would benefit from learning about passive income and alternative real estate investments. 

For more resources and guides, check these out:

Crack the Code https://www.aritacapital.com/crack-the-code/

Investor 101 https://www.aritacapital.com/investor-101-resource/

Due Diligence Resource https://www.aritacapital.com/dd-checklist-resource/

If you want to learn more, reach out at:

Email: [email protected]

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/aritasteven/

IG:  https://www.instagram.com/the.real.arita

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What if you could sell your property, skip the big tax hit, and stop dealing with all the hassles of being a landlord? In this episode, Steven chats with Ben Carmona, a financial advisor who’s been helping people do just that for over 20 years. Ben breaks down how strategies like 1031 exchanges and Delaware Statutory Trusts (DSTs) work, and how they can help you keep more of your money, earn passive income, and finally step away from managing real estate yourself. Whether you’ve made your first syndication investment or you’ve been in real estate for years, this episode will help you understand what’s possible when you're ready to simplify and grow.

Ben Carmona is the Managing Partner at Perch Wealth, with over 20 years of experience in alternative real estate investments. He is a nationally recognized expert in 1031 exchanges, Delaware Statutory Trusts (DSTs), and tax-efficient passive income strategies for accredited and high-net-worth investors.

Before launching Perch Wealth, Ben held senior leadership roles at top investment firms including Cantor Fitzgerald, NexPoint Advisors, and Capital Square Advisors, where he worked across acquisitions, underwriting, structuring, and syndication. He holds a degree in Finance and Real Estate from San Diego State University and maintains FINRA Series 7, 24, and 63 licenses.

Ben is also a member of the Forbes Finance Council and frequently contributes thought leadership on DSTs and real estate investing. His work focuses on helping investors move from active property management to smarter, passive wealth-building strategies.

Connect with Ben:
Website: https://www.perchwealth.com/
Phone: 818-269-4972

Episode highlights:
(0:00) Intro
(1:26) Ben, his background, and alternative investments
(4:29) 1031 Exchange explained
(9:49) Why syndications aren't 1031 eligible
(11:23) GP vs LP and 1031 eligibility
(13:55) What is a Delaware Statutory Trust?
(21:52) How DSTs allow for tax deferral and passive income
(24:35) Downsides: liquidity, control, and fees
(26:27) Common misconceptions about DSTs
(30:04) How fees work and what to watch out for
(33:10) DSTs and estate planning for families
(37:12) Where to connect with Ben and Perch Wealth
(38:32) Outro

—

Share this with your tech friends who you think would benefit from learning about passive income and alternative real estate investments. 

For more resources and guides, check these out:

Crack the Code https://www.aritacapital.com/crack-the-code/

Investor 101 https://www.aritacapital.com/investor-101-resource/

Due Diligence Resource https://www.aritacapital.com/dd-checklist-resource/

If you want to learn more, reach out at:

Email: [email protected]

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/aritasteven/

IG:  https://www.instagram.com/the.real.arita

Send us Fan Mail

What if you could earn steady rental income without ever having to fix a leaky faucet or chase down a tenant? In this episode, Steven chats with Lindsay Davis, CEO of Spartan Invest, as she explains how her team helps busy professionals build real estate income through fully managed, turnkey single-family homes. No landlord duties. No guesswork. Just a clear process that handles everything from buying and renovating the home to managing it long-term. We talk about how they keep things simple, what kind of returns you can expect, how they lock in 5.5% rates even today, and what questions you should ask before working with any turnkey provider. If you’ve ever said, “I want to invest, but I don’t have time,” this one's for you.

Lindsay Davis is the Broker and Founder of Spartan Realty. She graduated Cum Laude from the University of Alabama with a Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations and Business Management.  After graduation, she quickly moved up the ranks at Cintas in Tuscaloosa, AL, landing multiple management positions. Shortly thereafter, she joined her business partners and helped co-found Spartan Invest; a growing investment company that specializes in the purchase, renovation, and resell of properties. As Broker of Spartan Realty, Lindsay oversees the purchase and resell of over 300 properties a year in Alabama, Tennessee, and Georgia.

Lindsay's true passion is bringing properties back to life. She works tirelessly to take distressed properties that have lost their functional use in our community and make them useful, comfortable homes for Birmingham residents.

Connect with Lindsay:
Website: https://www.spartanrealtyal.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindsay-davis-3996a778/
Tune in to her podcast: https://tinyurl.com/2sse9pjd


Episode highlights:
(0:00) Intro
(3:32) All about Lindsay and Spartan Invest
(9:34) Who are turnkey properties perfect for?
(15:57) Where to find turnkey properties
(21:20) How Spartan offers 5.5% rates in today’s market
(23:09) Forward commitment
(26:45) What the investor relationship looks like
(33:03) Why asking questions is critical
(37:41) Myths around passive income and “maintenance-free” rentals
(40:28) When investors decide to exit
(45:51) How rent increases are handled
(51:04) The most important advice for new investors
(53:41) What Spartan is building toward next
(58:46) Where to learn more about Lindsay and Spartan Invest
(59:42) Outro

—

Share this with your tech friends who you think would benefit from learning about passive income and alternative real estate investments. 

For more resources and guides, check these out:

Crack the Code https://www.aritacapital.com/crack-the-code/

Investor 101 https://www.aritacapital.com/investor-101-resource/

Due Diligence Resource https://www.aritacapital.com/dd-checklist-resource/

If you want to learn more, reach out at:

Email: [email protected]

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/aritasteven/

IG:  https://www.instagram.com/the.real.arita

Send us Fan Mail

Most real estate investors don’t realize they could be saving thousands on their taxes. In this episode, Steven chats with Brian Kiczula, founder of Cost Seg Rx, as he shares how cost segregation can help you do just that. He explains what it is, how it works, and why it matters whether you own a single-family rental, an RV park, or anything in between. You’ll also hear what to watch out for when buying or selling, and how tech, including AI, is making this strategy faster and easier than ever. If you're investing in real estate and want to keep more of your money, this episode is a must.

Brian Kiczula is the founder and owner of CostSegRx, where he helps real estate investors navigate cost segregation, an intelligent tax strategy that boosts cash flow by accelerating depreciation. He’s been in this business since 2002, working with properties that range from single-family homes to large senior living facilities.

Brian belongs to the American Society of Cost Segregation Professionals, underscoring his credibility and active role in the industry. Over the years, he’s overseen thousands of cost segregation studies, using precise engineering methods aligned with IRS standards to deliver accurate, personalized results. He’s also the host of The Real Estate Explainer podcast, where he breaks down complex real estate tax concepts into easy-to-understand strategies.

Connect with Brian:
Website: https://www.costsegrx.com
Email: [email protected]
Tune in to his podcast: https://www.realestateexplainer.com/

Episode highlights:
(0:00) Intro
(1:49) Brian’s background and how he started Cost Seg Rx
(3:03) What cost segregation does and why it matters
(3:56) Depreciation explained in simple terms
(8:21) How a cost seg study breaks down a property
(11:47) Why does the IRS allow depreciation
(15:57) How passive investors can benefit
(18:40) Role of operators in cost seg studies
(19:34) Cost seg for single-family homes
(23:49) Straight-line vs. accelerated depreciation
(27:51) Risks and when not to do a study
(32:13) Selling, recapturing, and tax planning
(35:29) Types of properties CostSegRx serves
(40:18) How long a study takes and when to start
(42:14) Can you do a study on older properties?
(44:57) How AI and tech are changing the industry
(50:00) Is CostSegRx a tech company?
(51:53) Where to find Brian and how to get started
(53:28) Outro

—

Share this with your tech friends who you think would benefit from learning about passive income and alternative real estate investments. 

For more resources and guides, check these out:

Crack the Code https://www.aritacapital.com/crack-the-code/

Investor 101 https://www.aritacapital.com/investor-101-resource/

Due Diligence Resource https://www.aritacapital.com/dd-checklist-resource/

If you want to learn more, reach out at:

Email: [email protected]

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/aritasteven/

IG:  https://www.instagram.com/the.real.arita

Send us Fan Mail

Ever think about what it’s really like to make 100 podcast episodes? In this special episode, Steven looks back on the journey, from being nervous and over-prepared to finding his rhythm and sharing more of his own story. He talks about what worked, what didn’t, and how letting go of perfection made all the difference. You’ll hear about the feedback that meant the most, the listeners tuning in from around the world, and the beliefs he had to drop along the way. Steven also shares a sneak peek at what’s coming next, from in-depth explorations of different types of investments to tips for leveraging your tech skills in real estate, and planning what life looks like after achieving financial freedom. It’s part reflection, part encouragement, and a big thank you to everyone who’s been listening.

Episode highlights:
(0:00) Intro
(0:48) Reflecting on 100 episodes
(2:11) Why sharing personal stories matters
(3:30) Asking better questions and being present
(5:43) When podcasting finally felt natural
(7:47) The decision to rebrand
(10:01) Thinking of each episode as a product
(11:52) Delegation and building systems
(13:32) Breaking limiting beliefs
(16:05) What episode one “me” would say now
(17:41) Surprising takeaways from listeners
(20:54) What’s coming next
(25:47) Outro

—

Share this with your tech friends who you think would benefit from learning about passive income and alternative real estate investments. 

For more resources and guides, check these out:

Crack the Code https://www.aritacapital.com/crack-the-code/

Investor 101 https://www.aritacapital.com/investor-101-resource/

Due Diligence Resource https://www.aritacapital.com/dd-checklist-resource/

If you want to learn more, reach out at:

Email: [email protected]

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/aritasteven/

IG:  https://www.instagram.com/the.real.arita

Send us Fan Mail

What would you do if your company went under, not once, but twice? That’s exactly what happened to John Casmon, and it became the turning point that led him into real estate. In this episode, Steven sits down with John Casmon as he shares how he went from house hacking a duplex to leading over $150 million in multifamily apartment deals. He talks honestly about the fear, the doubt, and what it took to shift from using only his savings to partnering with others through syndications. If you’ve ever wondered how to build wealth without becoming a full-time landlord, this conversation will give you a real look at what’s possible.

John Casmon is the founder of Casmon Capital and a seasoned multifamily real estate investor who has led over $150 million in apartment deals. With a background in marketing and leadership roles at major companies like General Motors and top advertising agencies, John transitioned into real estate after facing unexpected job losses. He previously held executive roles in development, acquisitions, and finance at firms like Atria Senior Living, Tower Realty Trust, and Olympia & York, overseeing billions in real estate transactions. Today, he helps busy professionals invest passively in real estate and shares his expertise through his podcast, Multifamily Insights, public speaking, and coaching.

Connect with John:
Website: https://casmoncapital.com/
Email: [email protected]
Grab his free guide: https://casmoncapital.com/7questions
Tune in to his podcast: https://tinyurl.com/57akyx9s

Episode highlights:
(0:00) Intro
(1:26) John’s background and first steps in real estate
(3:49) How losing his job led to a mindset shift
(5:14) The problem with having all your equity tied up
(8:09) Hiring a mentor and learning syndication
(12:42) Why his old colleagues didn’t invest with him
(17:42) Don’t assume who can invest
(25:05) Overcoming imposter syndrome and raising capital
(30:55) The “waiting for paint to dry” story that changed everything
(34:55) What it looks like to be a passive investor in multifamily
(41:39) Why real estate is a long game worth playing
(49:39) John’s journey from podcast to summits and coaching
(57:25) Final advice: take action and don’t wait for perfection
(57:47) Where to find John and his resources
(58:16) Outro

—

Share this with your tech friends who you think would benefit from learning about passive income and alternative real estate investments. 

For more resources and guides, check these out:

Crack the Code https://www.aritacapital.com/crack-the-code/

Investor 101 https://www.aritacapital.com/investor-101-resource/

Due Diligence Resource https://www.aritacapital.com/dd-checklist-resource/

If you want to learn more, reach out at:

Email: [email protected]

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/aritasteven/

IG:  https://www.instagram.com/the.real.arita

Send us Fan Mail

Ever wonder how investments actually make money? In this episode of the Smart Tech Investor mini series, Steven keeps it simple and walks you through real examples—from apartments and self-storage to retail spaces, warehouses, land development, and more. If you’re in tech or just starting to explore investing, this one’s for you. Steven explains where the money comes from, who’s paying, and how you get your share. It’s all about understanding how each property works and why people pay to use it. If you're looking to grow your income or figure out which investments fit your goals, this episode will help you see it all more clearly.

Episode highlights:
(0:00) Intro
(0:52) Why asking “that question” is crucial
(3:22) Multi-family apartments explained
(5:15) How self-storage makes money
(6:34) Industrial and warehouse income streams
(9:22) Retail strip malls and local business rents
(10:07) How land development creates value
(11:53) Mobile home & RV parks: land rental breakdown
(14:52) How to think about cash flow and value
(17:08) Final thoughts on choosing what kind of returns you want
(18:46) Outro

—

Share this with your tech friends who you think would benefit from learning about passive income and alternative real estate investments. 

For more resources and guides, check these out:

Crack the Code https://www.aritacapital.com/crack-the-code/

Investor 101 https://www.aritacapital.com/investor-101-resource/

Due Diligence Resource https://www.aritacapital.com/dd-checklist-resource/

If you want to learn more, reach out at:

Email: [email protected]

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/aritasteven/

IG:  https://www.instagram.com/the.real.arita

Send us Fan Mail

Is luxury real estate really just about the price? In this episode, Steven Arita sits down with Debbi DiMaggio, real estate veteran, coach, and author, to unpack what truly defines luxury in today’s market. With over 35 years of experience in the Bay Area, Debbi shares how service, presentation, and emotional connection matter far more than price tags. She talks about working with celebrity clients, guiding sellers through home prep years in advance, and helping buyers find homes that feel just right. From the evolution of buyer expectations to navigating economic shifts, Debbi offers practical advice, heartfelt stories, and a reminder that success in real estate and life often comes down to mindset, timing, and showing up for others.

Debbi DiMaggio is a seasoned real estate expert with over 30 years of experience in the San Francisco Bay Area and Los Angeles markets. Known for her client-first approach, strong negotiation skills, and deep knowledge of residential real estate, she’s worked with everyone from first-time buyers to longtime homeowners. As a Seniors Real Estate Specialist® (SRES®), she also supports older clients with care and clarity during major life transitions. Debbi is the host of the podcast “Mastering The Art of Real Estate,” a mentor and coach, and the author of multiple books, including The Art of Real Estate and 52 Ways To Achieve Success in Real Estate. She’s also contributed to local publications as a trusted editorial voice. Outside of real estate, Debbi is passionate about giving back, especially through her work with UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital and Race to Erase MS, and finds joy in travel, writing, and connecting with people from all walks of life.

Connect with Debbi:
Website: https://debbidimaggio.com/
Tune in to her podcast: https://tinyurl.com/4ncvnz66
Grab a copy: https://debbidimaggio.com/books

Episode highlights:
(0:00) Intro
(3:16) Debbi’s start in real estate and family background
(6:30) From LA to SF: early career in rentals
(8:37) Working with Hollywood clients
(12:48) Defining luxury: service vs. price point
(19:33) Preparing a home for sale and buyer profiles
(31:16) Buyer psychology and common missteps
(40:40) Helping distressed sellers and emotional impact
(44:51) Starting a firm during the 2009 recession
(49:22) On serving the community
(56:14) Giving back through Children’s Hospital
(58:54) Writing books and launching a skincare brand
(1:01:35) Running a marathon on mindset alone
(1:04:47) Where to connect with Debbi and more
(1:06:10) Outro

—

Share this with your tech friends who you think would benefit from learning about passive income and alternative real estate investments. 

For more resources and guides, check these out:

Crack the Code https://www.aritacapital.com/crack-the-code/

Investor 101 https://www.aritacapital.com/investor-101-resource/

Due Diligence Resource https://www.aritacapital.com/dd-checklist-resource/

If you want to learn more, reach out at:

Email: [email protected]

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/aritasteven/

IG:  https://www.instagram.com/the.real.arita

Send us Fan Mail

What if instead of buying more stocks or another rental, you could earn passive income from a machine that mines Bitcoin while you sleep? In this episode, Steven Arita chats with Beau Turner, founder of Abundant Mines, about how he went from real estate investing to running a full-time Bitcoin mining business after learning some hard and expensive lessons. Beau breaks down what Bitcoin mining really is, how it’s different from just buying Bitcoin, and how it can generate cash flow and tax savings. They discuss who this is a good fit for, how much you might need to start, and why more investors, including those close to retirement, are paying attention. If you're curious about how this all works and what the numbers look like, this episode will provide a clear and honest picture.


Beau Turner is the founder of Abundant Mines, a Bitcoin mining strategist, real estate entrepreneur, and tech-driven investor. With a background in engineering management and information systems from SMU, Beau started his career in real estate, building a portfolio focused on passive income through creative financing. After discovering Bitcoin in college and revisiting it years later, he transitioned fully into the world of Bitcoin mining. Today, Beau helps investors set up and manage their own mining machines to generate passive Bitcoin income with strong tax advantages. Through Abundant Mines, he’s built a hands-on, education-first approach to make Bitcoin mining accessible, efficient, and profitable for everyday investors.


Connect with Beau:
Website: https://abundantmines.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/abundant-mines
IG: https://www.instagram.com/abundantmines/
YT: https://www.youtube.com/@AbundantMines/


Tune in to his podcast: https://abundantmines.com/podcasts/


Episode highlights:
(0:00) Intro
(2:49) Bo’s journey from real estate to Bitcoin mining
(6:45) Bitcoin from a values perspective
(9:08) Investment case for Bitcoin vs. Bitcoin mining
(15:26) How Bitcoin mining actually works
(19:28) Mining as a profitable business
(21:53) Tax benefits and depreciation explained
(29:36) Ownership structure
(33:33) Expected returns and Bitcoin payout
(42:01) Understanding the risks in mining
(51:19) Policy and regulation outlook
(55:47) What percentage of your portfolio should be in Bitcoin?
(1:01:07) Why Bo doesn’t touch altcoin mining
(1:03:00) Big myth: energy use in Bitcoin mining
(1:05:45) Where to learn more and how to get started
(1:07:37) Outro

—

Share this with your tech friends who you think would benefit from learning about passive income and alternative real estate investments. 

For more resources and guides, check these out:

Crack the Code https://www.aritacapital.com/crack-the-code/

Investor 101 https://www.aritacapital.com/investor-101-resource/

Due Diligence Resource https://www.aritacapital.com/dd-checklist-resource/

If you want to learn more, reach out at:

Email: [email protected]

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/aritasteven/

IG:  https://www.instagram.com/the.real.arita