Raising the Flipping Bar with Derek Marlin

Welcome back to Season 5 – Ep. 3 of Raising the Flipping Bar!

In this episode, I’m kicking off our new Elevation Business Book Club with a deep dive into the 5 Pillars of Wealth—time, social, mental, physical, and financial—and how they impact both business and life. From timeless classics like Think & Grow Rich to modern insights from Sahil Bloom and Tim Grover, I share what I’ve been reading, re-reading, and most importantly, implementing in 2025.

Here’s what I cover:

Why I re-read my top business books multiple times last year (and what changed in my business)

Insights from Malcolm Gladwell’s The Return of the Tipping Point and why it’s more relevant than ever

How Think & Grow Rich still resonates nearly 90 years after it was written

The 5 Pillars of Wealth explained—and why time wealth is the most valuable asset

Personal stories, including our family goal of visiting every NFL stadium

Tim Grover’s Relentless and what Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant can teach entrepreneurs about adaptability and focus

Lessons from Chris Williamson’s Modern Wisdom podcast, including critical thinking, community, and avoiding burnout

You’ll also hear practical takeaways on:

Auditing your 5 pillars monthly to track growth

Balancing nutrition, exercise, and recovery for physical wealth

Building meaningful social wealth and surrounding yourself with the right people

Making smart financial decisions by defining what “enough” really looks like

We’ll link to the featured books and podcasts in the show notes so you can dig deeper.

Coming up later this season:

A breakdown of a recent loss and the lessons learned

How to use self-directed retirement funds in GC Flip deals

Updates on Elevation Academy (Oct. 3rd at Spire Financial)

Connect with Derek Marlin & ELEVATION:
Derek on LinkedIn

ELEVATION Website

ELEVATION on LinkedIn

ELEVATION on Instagram

ELEVATION on Facebook

Subscribe to Raising the Flipping Bar:

Spotify

Apple Podcasts

Watch on YouTube: @elevationrealestateinvesting

#RealEstateInvesting #BookClub #WealthBuilding #FixAndFlip #HouseFlipping2025 #SmartInvesting #BusinessStrategy #MindsetMatters #ThinkAndGrowRich #Relentless #ModernWisdomPodcast #PersonalDevelopment

Welcome back to Season 5 - Ep. 2  of Raising the Flipping Bar!

In this episode, I’m breaking down one of our deal analysis case studies—a 1972 bi-level in Arvada that we transformed into a modern family home. This project had it all: off-market sourcing, probate delays, full-gut rehab challenges, and ultimately, a strong return for our investor client.

Here’s what I cover:

How we sourced this off-market deal through an agent referral (and why those relationships are gold)

The probate hiccup that delayed closing and how we navigated it

Why comping bi-level homes is tricky—and how we priced this one strategically

Design decisions that helped us stand out (including mid-century modern finishes and bold accent walls)

The GC Flip model: how we partnered with a cash investor and structured the deal

Full project numbers—purchase price, rehab budget, contingency use, timeline, and net profit

What turned this “double” into a “triple” and why we didn’t chase greed on the sale

You’ll also hear flip tips on:

Managing contractor costs in a high-labor market

Choosing the right permitting approach to save time and money

Negotiating smart when the right buyer and agent are at the table

We’ll include before-and-after photos and the full deal analysis spreadsheet in the show notes.

Coming up later this season:

A breakdown of a recent loss and the lessons learned

How to use self-directed retirement funds in GC Flip deals

Updates on Elevation Academy (Oct. 3rd at Spire Financial)

Connect with Derek Marlin & ELEVATION:
Derek on LinkedIn

ELEVATION Website

ELEVATION on LinkedIn

ELEVATION on Instagram

ELEVATION on Facebook

Subscribe to Raising the Flipping Bar:

Spotify

Apple Podcasts

Watch on YouTube: @elevationrealestateinvesting

#RealEstateInvesting #FixAndFlip #HouseFlipping2025 #DealAnalysis #SmartInvesting #DenverRealEstate #FlippingHouses #MaximizeROI #RenovationTrends #ProjectManagementTips #HouseFlippingTips

Welcome back to Season 5 of Raising the Flipping Bar!

In this episode, I’m sharing a mid-year 2025 market update and breaking down what’s really happening in the Denver Metro real estate scene. From shifting inventory levels to changing buyer behavior, I go over the latest DMAR housing stats, interest rate impacts, and why I call this a “bipolar market.”

Here’s what I cover:

Why I decided to bring podcast production in-house and the long-term ROI behind it

How I’m sharpening sales strategies by working directly in the business again

The AI tools I’m using in real estate investing and how they’re helping

Pricing strategies that are actually moving flips in today’s market

What’s working—and what’s not—for flips in different price brackets

Behind-the-scenes updates on my team, projects, and what’s next

I’ll also share pro tips for negotiating concessions, staying competitive with finishes, and positioning flips to sell fast—even in this tougher market.

Sources I reference include DMAR, Zillow, Redfin, City of Denver Housing Reports, and ATTOM’s Q2 Flipping Report.

Coming up, I’ll be diving into:

A full deal analysis breakdown (including a recent loss and lessons learned)

Marketing shifts I’m making to adapt in 2025

Details on Elevation Academy (Oct. 3rd at Spire Financial)


Connect with Derek Marlin and ELEVATION!
Derek on LinkedIn:   / derekmarlin  

ELEVATION’s website: https://elevationinvest.com/

ELEVATION on LinkedIn:   / elevationinvestmentproperties  

ELEVATION on Instagram:   / elevationinvest  

ELEVATION on Facebook:   / elevationinvestmentproperties  

Subscribe to the “Raising the Flipping Bar” on your favorite podcast player!
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3ByYmxv
Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3WbUCeQ

Watch “Raising the Flipping Bar” on YouTube:    / @elevationrealestateinvesting  

#RealEstateInvesting #FixAndFlip #HouseFlipping2025 #HomeDesignTrends #RealEstateTips #FlippingHouses #MaximizeROI #EcoFriendlyHomes #StagingToSell #RenovationTrends #MultifunctionalDesign #HouseFlippingTips #IndoorOutdoorLiving #MarketTrends #SmartInvesting

The real estate game is changing in 2025, and if you’re still flipping houses the way you did in 2020, you’re already behind. Buyers are more selective, and cookie-cutter flips won’t cut it anymore. In this episode of Raising The Flipping Bar, I break down the biggest design trends and strategies that will help you flip faster, sell for more, and stay ahead of the competition.

I’ll cover multifunctional layouts, eco-friendly materials, and the power of great staging—plus, I’ll give you real-world examples from my own projects. If you want to make your properties stand out and maximize profit, this is the episode for you.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why multifunctional layouts are replacing open floor plans: Buyers want defined, adaptable spaces that serve multiple purposes.
• How to use eco-friendly and durable materials smartly: Invest in sustainability without blowing your renovation budget.
• Why staging is essential for smaller spaces: Well-placed furniture makes rooms feel bigger and helps buyers visualize their new home.
• How color palettes and design details can make your flip memorable: Neutral isn’t enough—learn what colors and finishes actually attract buyers.
• The power of indoor-outdoor living spaces for resale value: Patios, pergolas, and smart outdoor layouts can give your property an edge.

If this episode resonated with you, please leave a review and share it with a fellow investor!

Connect with Derek Marlin and ELEVATION!

Derek on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/derekmarlin

ELEVATION’s website: https://elevationinvest.com/

ELEVATION on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/elevationinvestmentproperties

ELEVATION on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elevationinvest/

ELEVATION on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elevationinvestmentproperties

Subscribe to the “Raising the Flipping Bar” on your favorite podcast player!

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3ByYmxv

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3WbUCeQ

Watch “Raising the Flipping Bar” on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ELEVATIONRealEstateInvesting

#RealEstateInvesting #FixAndFlip #HouseFlipping2025 #HomeDesignTrends #RealEstateTips #FlippingHouses #MaximizeROI #EcoFriendlyHomes #StagingToSell #RenovationTrends #MultifunctionalDesign #HouseFlippingTips #IndoorOutdoorLiving #MarketTrends #SmartInvesting

Real estate investing isn’t just about buying properties—it’s about buying the right ones, at the right price, with the right strategy. And if you’ve ever wondered how to successfully invest in land flipping, multifamily deals, and passive income strategies, this episode is for you.

I’m joined by Mike and Ligia, two investors who have mastered the art of finding undervalued land, structuring smart deals, and pivoting in changing markets. They break down their journey from land flipping to large-scale multifamily syndications and share insider tips on buying below market value, creating passive income, and navigating real estate cycles.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why land flipping is a great entry point for investors: Learn how to find and buy land at 50% or less of market value for fast, profitable deals.
• How owner financing creates reliable passive income: Selling land with monthly payments can turn a one-time deal into years of recurring revenue.
• The key to profitable multifamily investing: It’s not just about acquiring units—timing, market trends, and financing structures all play a role.
• How to pivot when market conditions change: Rising interest rates and economic shifts affect every investment strategy—know when to buy, hold, or sit out.
• Why working with the right partners is critical: Investing is a team sport—vet your partners, align your goals, and build trust before jumping into deals.

📢 Want to make smarter real estate investments? Subscribe to Raising the Flipping Bar for expert insights, and visit https://elevationinvest.com/ to learn more about proven real estate strategies!

Don’t miss our discussion on the future of flipping, the power of creative design, and the lessons these two have learned along the way. Let’s dive in!

Connect with Mike Deaton:
Website:https://flippingdirt.us/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelbdeaton/

Connect with Ligia Deaton:
Website:https://flippingdirt.us/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ligia-deaton-1a99a944/

Connect with Derek Marlin and ELEVATION!

Derek on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/derekmarlin

ELEVATION’s website: https://ELEVATIONinvest.com/

ELEVATION on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ELEVATIONinvestmentproperties

ELEVATION on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ELEVATIONinvest/

ELEVATION on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ELEVATIONinvestmentproperties

Subscribe to the “Raising the Flipping Bar” on your favorite podcast player!

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3ByYmxv

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3WbUCeQ

Watch “Raising the Flipping Bar” on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ELEVATIONRealEstateInvesting

#RealEstateInvesting #PassiveIncome #LandFlipping #MultifamilyInvesting #RealEstateStrategy #FinancialFreedom #SmartInvesting #PropertyInvestment #WealthBuilding #CashFlow #InvestorsMindset #RealEstateSuccess #LongTermWealth #BuyAndHold #InvestSmart

Flipping houses isn’t just about major renovations—it’s about strategy. In this episode of Raising The Flipping Bar, I sit down with Travis Masse, our senior project manager at Elevation, to break down the Fix & List strategy.

We walk through real-world case studies and show how minor upgrades can lead to major profits without over-improving. Whether you're an investor looking to maximize returns or an agent helping clients sell for top dollar, this episode is packed with actionable insights.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
1. How the Fix & List strategy maximizes profit: The key upgrades that boost home value without blowing the budget.
2. Why smart renovations outperform full-scale remodels: How targeted improvements can attract buyers and speed up sales.
3. What common rehab mistakes cost investors money: Avoiding over-improvements and knowing where to allocate your budget.
4. How to manage contractors for speed and efficiency: Insider tips on hiring, negotiating, and keeping projects on track.
5. Why having a contingency budget is critical: Planning for unexpected costs so they don’t eat into your profits.

Flipping success starts with the right approach. If you're ready to elevate your investment game, subscribe to Raising The Flipping Bar and connect with us for more expert strategies!

Don’t miss our discussion on the future of flipping, the power of creative design, and the lessons these two have learned along the way. Let’s dive in!

Connect with Travis Masse:
Website: https://elevationinvest.com/ 

Connect with Derek Marlin and ELEVATION!
Derek on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/derekmarlin
ELEVATION’s website: https://elevationinvest.com/
ELEVATION on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/elevationinvestmentproperties
ELEVATION on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elevationinvest/
ELEVATION on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elevationinvestmentproperties

Subscribe to the “Raising the Flipping Bar” on your favorite podcast player!
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3ByYmxv
Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3WbUCeQ

Watch “Raising the Flipping Bar” on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ELEVATIONRealEstateInvesting

#FixAndList #FlippingHouses #RealEstateInvesting #HouseFlippingTips #SmartRenovations #HomeFlipping #RealEstateSuccess #InvestmentProperties #FlippingStrategy #PropertyInvesting #FixerUpper #RealEstateProfits #RenovationROI #HomeSellingTips #FlippingMastery

In this episode, we're diving deep into the world of wholesaling with insights straight from my personal experience. I'll explore the nuances, challenges, and strategies behind successful wholesaling in real estate. Whether you're flipping properties or scaling your portfolio, understanding wholesaling is a game-changer.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• The key difference between flipping and wholesaling: Discover how each strategy works and when to choose one over the other.
• Maximizing profits through smart decision-making: Learn how to analyze deals and decide whether to wholesale or flip based on ROI and market conditions.
• The importance of transparency in wholesaling: Why honest communication with buyers and sellers is critical for long-term success.
• Tools and strategies for building a cash buyer list: How software like PropStream and InvestorLift can revolutionize your deal flow.
• Managing cash flow constraints in your business: Practical tips for handling capital and ensuring consistent deal volume.

If this episode resonated with you, please leave a review and share it with a fellow investor!

Connect with Derek Marlin and ELEVATION!

Derek on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/derekmarlin

ELEVATION’s website: https://elevationinvest.com/

ELEVATION on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/elevationinvestmentproperties

ELEVATION on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elevationinvest/

ELEVATION on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elevationinvestmentproperties

Subscribe to the “Raising the Flipping Bar” on your favorite podcast player!

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3ByYmxv

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3WbUCeQ

Watch “Raising the Flipping Bar” on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ELEVATIONRealEstateInvesting

#RaisingTheFlippingBar #RealEstatePodcast #WholesalingTips #FlippingVsWholesaling #InvestmentStrategies #RealEstateInsights #PropertyInvesting #TransparentWholesaling #RealEstateTools #CashBuyerList #ElevationAcademy #RealEstateEducation #PodcastForInvestors #RealEstateSuccess #ScalingRealEstateBusiness

Are you ready to make 2025 your best year in real estate? In this episode of Raising the Flipping Bar, I’m sharing the strategies I’m using at ELEVATION to set goals, streamline focus, and build momentum into the new year. From fine-tuning lead generation techniques to cutting through distractions, I’m here to help you start 2025 with a bang.

I’ll break down practical tips like the “MORE - BETTER - NEW” framework and how to say no to distractions to stay laser-focused on what moves the needle. This episode is packed with actionable advice to help you prioritize, optimize, and crush your goals in real estate and beyond.

Connect with Derek Marlin and ELEVATION!

Derek on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/derekmarlin

ELEVATION’s website: https://elevationinvest.com/

ELEVATION on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/elevationinvestmentproperties

ELEVATION on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elevationinvest/

ELEVATION on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elevationinvestmentproperties

Subscribe to the “Raising the Flipping Bar” on your favorite podcast player!

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3ByYmxv

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3WbUCeQ

Watch “Raising the Flipping Bar” on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ELEVATIONRealEstateInvesting

#RealEstateInvesting #TimeManagementTips #ProductivityHacks #Entrepreneurship #GoalSetting2025 #RealEstateStrategies #BusinessGrowth #WorkSmarterNotHarder #ScalingYourBusiness #RealEstateSuccess 

Today’s episode is all about breaking free from the New Year’s resolution trap and setting yourself up for real, lasting success in 2025. Spoiler alert: I think New Year’s resolutions are total BS, and here’s why.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why 91% of people fail to stick to their resolutions: The common mistakes and how to avoid them.
• The power of identifying your "why": How connecting to a deeper purpose fuels consistent progress.
• How big, audacious goals can keep you motivated: Even if you don’t hit them, the progress is worth it.
• Why saying no more often matters: Free up time and energy for what truly aligns with your goals.
• How a single word or phrase can guide your year: Focus on what matters in every area of your life.

This episode is packed with actionable insights you can apply to your fitness, business, and personal life. My word for 2025 is intentional, and I’ll share exactly how I’m putting it into practice to grow my business and improve my life.

What’s your word or phrase for 2025? Share it with me on social media or connect with us directly—I’d love to hear how you’re kicking off the year!

Connect with Derek Marlin and ELEVATION!

Derek on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/derekmarlin

ELEVATION’s website: https://elevationinvest.com/

ELEVATION on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/elevationinvestmentproperties

ELEVATION on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elevationinvest/

ELEVATION on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elevationinvestmentproperties

Subscribe to the “Raising the Flipping Bar” on your favorite podcast player!

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3ByYmxv

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3WbUCeQ

Watch “Raising the Flipping Bar” on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ELEVATIONRealEstateInvesting

#NewYearsGoals #ProductivityTips #EntrepreneurMindset #GoalSetting2025 #NoResolutionsNeeded #BusinessGrowth #RealEstateSuccess #MindsetShift #FocusAndWin #CrushYourGoals #DerekMarlin #2025

Are you ready to revolutionize your workflow with AI? In today’s episode, I’m joined by Eli Wood of Black Flag Design, who’s back to share his expertise on integrating AI tools into real estate investing and business operations. Eli breaks down five essential AI tools and how they can save time, reduce costs, and boost efficiency.

From leveraging ChatGPT to mastering MLS data analysis, we explore how AI is changing the game for investors, agents, and contractors. Whether you’re new to AI or looking to refine your tech stack, this episode has actionable insights to help you adapt and thrive.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How AI tools can simplify repetitive tasks: Automating routine activities like data entry, emails, or reports frees up time for high-value strategic work.
• Why tools like ChatGPT go beyond search to enhance workflows:
  With its ability to create tailored outputs like contracts or client presentations, ChatGPT acts as a versatile assistant.
• The benefits of using specialized AI for real estate, such as MLS optimization: AI can quickly analyze large datasets, identify market trends, and pull comps faster than manual research, giving you a competitive edge.
• How to integrate AI tools for cost-effective solutions that save time: Combining multiple AI tools reduces dependency on outsourcing and streamlines operations for a more efficient process.
• Why staying adaptable with AI is crucial for future business success: Being open to learning and integrating new tools ensures you remain relevant and ahead in the competitive landscape.

If you’re looking to stay ahead in real estate or business, this episode is your roadmap to making AI work for you.

Connect with Eli Wood:

Website: https://www.blackflag.design/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/notthatactor

Connect with Derek Marlin and ELEVATION!

Derek on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/derekmarlin

ELEVATION’s website: https://elevationinvest.com/

ELEVATION on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/elevationinvestmentproperties

ELEVATION on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elevationinvest/

ELEVATION on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elevationinvestmentproperties

Subscribe to the “Raising the Flipping Bar” on your favorite podcast player!

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3ByYmxv

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3WbUCeQ

Watch “Raising the Flipping Bar” on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ELEVATIONRealEstateInvesting

#RealEstateInvesting #RealtorLife #RealEstateAI #PropTech #RealEstateMarketing #AIForRealEstate #RealEstateStrategies #InvestmentTips #RealEstateTrends #TechForAgents