Real Estate Investing with RealDealCrew

Mike Zlotnik breaks down real estate market cycles, why predictability matters more than hype, and how chess-level thinking applies to investing.

In this episode of RealDealChat, Mike Zlotnik returns for a deep, no-nonsense conversation on market cycles, risk, and building a resilient real estate portfolio.

Mike shares his journey from political refugee and chess master to tech executive and full-time real estate fund manager. We explore how chess shaped his approach to investing, why past performance is not predictive, and how investors should adapt strategies based on where we are in the market cycle.

We dive into why Mike is currently focused on industrial and open-air retail, what he calls the 2% positive spread rule (cap rate vs interest rate), and why downside protection, fixed-rate debt, and tenant credit quality matter more than chasing appreciation. Mike also explains why multifamily still has unresolved risk, how AI could be deflationary, and why diversification—across assets and time—is the most underrated strategy in investing.

This episode is a masterclass in patience, discipline, and thinking several moves ahead.

🌐 Learn more about Mike & current strategies:

👉 https://bigmikefund.com

Call to Action:

If this episode helped you think more clearly about risk and market cycles, share it with one investor friend—and learn more at https://realdealcrew.com

Work With RealDealCrew

If you’re already closing deals but your intake, follow-up, or visibility feels inconsistent, here are two ways to go deeper:

Take the Deal Intake Assessment

See how resilient your current operation actually is.

→ https://assessment.realdealcrew.com

Book a Fit Call

If you want to explore what a fully system-driven deal flow looks like, let’s talk.

→ https://realdealcrew.com/book

LIKE • SHARE • JOIN • REVIEW

1. Website
2. Apple Podcasts
3. YouTube
4. YouTube Music
5. Spotify
6. Amazon Music
7. Facebook
8. Twitter
9. Instagram

Mentioned in this episode:

book a Fit Call at RealDealCrew.com

Chris Prefontaine breaks down why creative real estate works in every market—and why most investors quit before the breakthrough.

In this episode of RealDealChat, Chris Prefontaine returns to break down the fundamentals of creative real estate investing and why patience—not tactics—is the missing ingredient for most investors.

Chris shares his journey from traditional building and brokerage to getting crushed in the 2008 crash—and how that pain forced him to rethink everything. With no credit, no cash, and no desire to rely on banks again, Chris rebuilt his business using owner financing, lease-purchase, and subject-to strategies—eventually creating what he calls the 3-Payday System: getting paid upfront, monthly, and on the backend of every deal.

We dive deep into why it realistically takes 3–7 years to master any business, how unrealistic expectations sabotage investors, why drilling too many “wells” guarantees failure, and how creative real estate allows you to operate profitably in any market cycle—including COVID and today’s high-rate environment.

This episode is essential listening for investors tired of chasing tactics and ready to build something durable.

📘 Free Book Offer (no shipping required):

👉 https://wickedsmartbooks.com/jack

If this episode reset your expectations around real estate, share it with one investor friend—and learn more at https://realdealcrew.com

RealDealCrew.com

We empower real estate investors by optimizing your business processes through customized automation and system integration. From lead management to deal closure, we help you build a scalable and efficient operation. Learn more at RealDealCrew.com

LIKE • SHARE • JOIN • REVIEW

1. Website
2. Apple Podcasts
3. YouTube
4. YouTube Music
5. Spotify
6. Amazon Music
7. Facebook
8. Twitter
9. Instagram

SUPPORT THE SHOW!

1. If you are new to Wealthfront, and open a Cash Account, you'll get a 0.50% APY boost for 3 months.
2. Open an Automated Index Investing Account or Automated Bond Portfolio, you'll earn $5,000 managed for free.
3. Get $10 and Reduce Your Business Costs by Shopping at AppSumo • https://bit.ly/reiappsumo
4. Get $10 Towards Your First Purchase at Drop • https://drop.com/?referer=3DC729

Mentioned in this episode:

book a Fit Call at RealDealCrew.com

Colton Pace explains why most property tax bills are wrong—and how homeowners and investors can reduce expenses without upfront risk.

In this episode of RealDealChat, Colton Pace, co-founder of Ownwell, breaks down one of the most overlooked wealth drains in real estate: property taxes that go unquestioned year after year.

Colton shares how his experience working with a multi-billion-dollar family office revealed a massive gap between how institutions manage real estate and how everyday owners do. That insight led to Ownwell—a platform designed to help homeowners and investors optimize their largest recurring expenses, including property taxes, insurance, utilities, and refinancing.

We dive into how property tax appeals actually work, why most assessments are inaccurate, and how Ownwell’s contingency-only model removes downside risk. Colton also shares real stories—from retirees nearly priced out of their homes to investors receiving massive tax refunds—along with lessons on delegation, scaling teams, and where AI truly helps (and where humans are still required).

If you own real estate and don’t actively manage your expenses, this episode could save you real money.

🌐 Learn more about Ownwell: 👉 https://ownwell.com

If this episode helped you rethink property taxes or real estate expenses, share it with one investor or homeowner friend—and learn more at https://realdealcrew.com

Keywords: property tax appeals, Colton Pace, Ownwell, real estate expense optimization, property taxes explained, homeowner tax savings, real estate investor expenses, insurance optimization real estate, refinancing strategy, AI in real estate services, contingency fee tax appeal, RealDealChat podcast

RealDealCrew.com

We empower real estate investors by optimizing your business processes through customized automation and system integration. From lead management to deal closure, we help you build a scalable and efficient operation. Learn more at RealDealCrew.com

LIKE • SHARE • JOIN • REVIEW

1. Website
2. Apple Podcasts
3. YouTube
4. YouTube Music
5. Spotify
6. Amazon Music
7. Facebook
8. Twitter
9. Instagram

SUPPORT THE SHOW!

1. If you are new to Wealthfront, and open a Cash Account, you'll get a 0.50% APY boost for 3 months.
2. Open an Automated Index Investing Account or Automated Bond Portfolio, you'll earn $5,000 managed for free.
3. Get $10 and Reduce Your Business Costs by Shopping at AppSumo • https://bit.ly/reiappsumo
4. Get $10 Towards Your First Purchase at Drop • https://drop.com/?referer=3DC729

Mentioned in this episode:

book a Fit Call at RealDealCrew.com

After serving time in federal prison, Fuzzy Jardine rebuilt his life—and went on to build 150+ affordable homes in Hawaii using values-driven real estate.

In this episode of RealDealChat, Kolaiah “Fuzzy” Jardine shares one of the most powerful real estate journeys you’ll hear—rising from a troubled past and federal prison sentence to becoming a successful developer focused on affordable housing for local families in Hawaii.

Fuzzy walks through the mindset shift that changed everything, why investing in education (even when it felt impossible) was the turning point, and how surrounding himself with the right mentors accelerated his growth. We break down his first creative deal, how he learned development through partnerships, and how he now builds and sells brand-new homes at prices unheard of in Hawaii.

You’ll also hear why leading with people before profits matters, how values create better deals, how he funds projects entirely with other people’s money, and why documenting your journey attracts partners naturally.

This is a masterclass in resilience, alignment, and building real wealth the right way.

🌐 Learn more about Fuzzy & Hui Mastermind: 👉 https://huimastermind.com

📘 Fuzzy’s Book: Priced Out Paradise (Amazon)

If this episode inspired you, share it with one investor friend—and learn more at https://realdealcrew.com

RealDealCrew.com

We empower real estate investors by optimizing your business processes through customized automation and system integration. From lead management to deal closure, we help you build a scalable and efficient operation. Learn more at RealDealCrew.com

LIKE • SHARE • JOIN • REVIEW

1. Website
2. Apple Podcasts
3. YouTube
4. YouTube Music
5. Spotify
6. Amazon Music
7. Facebook
8. Twitter
9. Instagram

SUPPORT THE SHOW!

1. If you are new to Wealthfront, and open a Cash Account, you'll get a 0.50% APY boost for 3 months.
2. Open an Automated Index Investing Account or Automated Bond Portfolio, you'll earn $5,000 managed for free.
3. Get $10 and Reduce Your Business Costs by Shopping at AppSumo • https://bit.ly/reiappsumo
4. Get $10 Towards Your First Purchase at Drop • https://drop.com/?referer=3DC729

Mentioned in this episode:

book a Fit Call at RealDealCrew.com

Nathan Schiess explains why personal branding isn’t optional for real estate investors—and why waiting until you need capital is already too late.

In this episode of RealDealChat, Nathan Schiess—real estate investor turned personal branding consultant—breaks down why documenting your journey matters more than perfecting your pitch.

Nathan shares his own story of building and liquidating a real estate portfolio without documenting any of it—and how that hard lesson shaped his work helping investors, agents, syndicators, and capital raisers build trust before they need it. We unpack the difference between personal brands and company brands, why repetition is necessary (not annoying), how to think about ICP and USP, and why most investors should hire this out instead of trying to DIY content.

We also dive into AI, batching content, why “giving away the secret sauce” actually increases credibility, and how a strong personal brand follows you from one venture to the next—unlike a business brand that stays behind.

If you ever plan to raise capital, partner on deals, or stand out in a crowded market, this episode is required listening.

🔗 Connect with Nathan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathan-schiess/

If this episode helped you rethink personal branding, share it with one investor friend—and learn more at https://realdealcrew.com

RealDealCrew.com

We empower real estate investors by optimizing your business processes through customized automation and system integration. From lead management to deal closure, we help you build a scalable and efficient operation. Learn more at RealDealCrew.com

LIKE • SHARE • JOIN • REVIEW

1. Website
2. Apple Podcasts
3. YouTube
4. YouTube Music
5. Spotify
6. Amazon Music
7. Facebook
8. Twitter
9. Instagram

SUPPORT THE SHOW!

1. If you are new to Wealthfront, and open a Cash Account, you'll get a 0.50% APY boost for 3 months.
2. Open an Automated Index Investing Account or Automated Bond Portfolio, you'll earn $5,000 managed for free.
3. Get $10 and Reduce Your Business Costs by Shopping at AppSumo • https://bit.ly/reiappsumo
4. Get $10 Towards Your First Purchase at Drop • https://drop.com/?referer=3DC729

Mentioned in this episode:

book a Fit Call at RealDealCrew.com

Natalie Cloutier shares how she built a multimillion-dollar rental portfolio by focusing on small new builds, sweat equity, and long-term thinking.

In this episode of RealDealChat, Natalie Cloutier—co-founder of The New Build Couple and author of a new book on small-scale development—breaks down how she and her husband built a $13M+ rental portfolio by starting with their own home and scaling into duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes, and sixplexes.

We explore how new-build rentals can work even without large upfront capital, the power of sweat equity, and why credit unions and construction-to-permanent loans are often overlooked advantages. Natalie shares hard-earned lessons on zoning battles, infill development, dealing with neighborhood pushback, and why staying small (six units or less) often produces better cash flow with less risk.

This conversation goes beyond tactics—it’s about resilience, patience, and why real estate success usually takes a decade, not a year.

🌐 Learn more + Natalie’s book: 👉 https://thenewbuildcouple.com

If this episode helped you rethink new construction and long-term investing, share it with one investor friend—and learn more at https://realdealcrew.com

Keywords: new build rentals, Natalie Cloutier, small multifamily investing, build to rent strategy, sweat equity real estate, construction loans, house hacking, infill development, zoning for real estate investors, BRRRR strategy, real estate portfolio scaling, real estate mindset, RealDealChat podcast

RealDealCrew.com

We empower real estate investors by optimizing your business processes through customized automation and system integration. From lead management to deal closure, we help you build a scalable and efficient operation. Learn more at RealDealCrew.com

LIKE • SHARE • JOIN • REVIEW

1. Website
2. Apple Podcasts
3. YouTube
4. YouTube Music
5. Spotify
6. Amazon Music
7. Facebook
8. Twitter
9. Instagram

SUPPORT THE SHOW!

1. If you are new to Wealthfront, and open a Cash Account, you'll get a 0.50% APY boost for 3 months.
2. Open an Automated Index Investing Account or Automated Bond Portfolio, you'll earn $5,000 managed for free.
3. Get $10 and Reduce Your Business Costs by Shopping at AppSumo • https://bit.ly/reiappsumo
4. Get $10 Towards Your First Purchase at Drop • https://drop.com/?referer=3DC729

Mentioned in this episode:

book a Fit Call at RealDealCrew.com

Cost segregation expert Erik Oliver explains why this strategy now works for small rentals—and how 100% bonus depreciation changes the game.

In this episode of RealDealChat, Erik Oliver breaks down cost segregation in plain English and explains why it’s no longer just for massive commercial properties.

We cover how accelerated depreciation works, why bonus depreciation puts cost segregation “on steroids,” and how investors can unlock massive tax savings—even on single-family rentals. Erik also walks through common misconceptions, why most CPAs don’t offer cost segregation, how depreciation recapture really works, and when this strategy doesn’t make sense.

You’ll also hear how technology and AI are reducing study costs, what the process looks like step-by-step, and how investors can use cost segregation strategically to grow faster—without crossing IRS lines.

If you own real estate and pay taxes, this episode could change how you think about depreciation forever.

🌐 Learn more about Erik & his team: 👉 https://mavencostseg.com/eric

If this episode helped clarify cost segregation, share it with one investor friend—and learn more at https://realdealcrew.com

Keywords: cost segregation, bonus depreciation, Erik Oliver, real estate tax strategy, accelerated depreciation, real estate investing taxes, depreciation recapture explained, passive income tax planning, real estate CPA topics, tax strategies for investors, cost segregation study, RealDealChat podcast

RealDealCrew.com

We empower real estate investors by optimizing your business processes through customized automation and system integration. From lead management to deal closure, we help you build a scalable and efficient operation. Learn more at RealDealCrew.com

LIKE • SHARE • JOIN • REVIEW

1. Website
2. Apple Podcasts
3. YouTube
4. YouTube Music
5. Spotify
6. Amazon Music
7. Facebook
8. Twitter
9. Instagram

SUPPORT THE SHOW!

1. If you are new to Wealthfront, and open a Cash Account, you'll get a 0.50% APY boost for 3 months.
2. Open an Automated Index Investing Account or Automated Bond Portfolio, you'll earn $5,000 managed for free.
3. Get $10 and Reduce Your Business Costs by Shopping at AppSumo • https://bit.ly/reiappsumo
4. Get $10 Towards Your First Purchase at Drop • https://drop.com/?referer=3DC729

Mentioned in this episode:

book a Fit Call at RealDealCrew.com

Jason Hull explains why bad property managers destroy returns—and why smart investors start with the manager, not the property.

In this episode of RealDealChat, Jason Hull, founder of DoorGrow and host of The DoorGrow Show, breaks down one of the most overlooked truths in real estate investing: property management—not the property—is the key to true passive income.

We unpack why so many investors struggle with micromanagement, misaligned incentives, and emotional decision-making—and how most property managers end up trapped in what Jason calls the “cycle of suck.” Jason explains how elite investors flip the script by finding a great property manager first, paying them well, and letting them protect the asset.

This conversation also dives into off-market deal flow through property managers, why DIY management stalls growth, how bad properties create bad tenants, and what technology and AI will (and won’t) replace in property management.

If you want real passive income—not a second job—this episode is required listening.

🌐 Learn more about DoorGrow: 👉 https://doorgrow.com

🎙️ Jason’s Podcast: The DoorGrow Show

Call to Action: If this episode saved you from hiring the wrong property manager, share it with one investor friend—and learn more at https://realdealcrew.com

Keywords: property management, Jason Hull, DoorGrow, passive income real estate, real estate investing mistakes, hiring a property manager, off market real estate deals, rental property investing, property management systems, investor mindset, real estate operations, real estate automation, RealDealChat podcast

RealDealCrew.com

We empower real estate investors by optimizing your business processes through customized automation and system integration. From lead management to deal closure, we help you build a scalable and efficient operation. Learn more at RealDealCrew.com

LIKE • SHARE • JOIN • REVIEW

1. Website
2. Apple Podcasts
3. YouTube
4. YouTube Music
5. Spotify
6. Amazon Music
7. Facebook
8. Twitter
9. Instagram

SUPPORT THE SHOW!

1. If you are new to Wealthfront, and open a Cash Account, you'll get a 0.50% APY boost for 3 months.
2. Open an Automated Index Investing Account or Automated Bond Portfolio, you'll earn $5,000 managed for free.
3. Get $10 and Reduce Your Business Costs by Shopping at AppSumo • https://bit.ly/reiappsumo
4. Get $10 Towards Your First Purchase at Drop • https://drop.com/?referer=3DC729

Mentioned in this episode:

book a Fit Call at RealDealCrew.com

Franchise expert Adam Goldman explains how the right franchise can complement real estate investing, create deal flow, and unlock scalable systems.

In this episode of RealDealChat, Adam Goldman—former franchise owner turned franchise consultant—breaks down how franchising can work alongside real estate investing to create additional income, systems, and leverage.

Adam shares his journey from owning an office-cleaning franchise to placing hundreds of franchisees across dozens of industries. We discuss why SOPs and brand systems are often undervalued, how franchises can support real estate investors with capital and deal flow, and which business models are best suited for semi-absentee ownership.

We also explore real estate-adjacent franchises, service businesses that generate investor leads, and why understanding your personal strengths—and weaknesses—is critical when choosing a franchise.

🌐 Learn more & connect with Adam: 👉 https://franchisecoach.net

Call to Action: If this episode expanded how you think about business and investing, share it with one investor friend—and learn more at https://realdealcrew.com

Keywords: franchise investing, Adam Goldman, franchise consultant, franchising for real estate investors, business systems and SOPs, semi absentee businesses, service based franchises, real estate adjacent businesses, entrepreneurship podcast, scalable business models, passive income strategies, RealDealChat podcast

RealDealCrew.com

We empower real estate investors by optimizing your business processes through customized automation and system integration. From lead management to deal closure, we help you build a scalable and efficient operation. Learn more at RealDealCrew.com

LIKE • SHARE • JOIN • REVIEW

1. Website
2. Apple Podcasts
3. YouTube
4. YouTube Music
5. Spotify
6. Amazon Music
7. Facebook
8. Twitter
9. Instagram

SUPPORT THE SHOW!

1. If you are new to Wealthfront, and open a Cash Account, you'll get a 0.50% APY boost for 3 months.
2. Open an Automated Index Investing Account or Automated Bond Portfolio, you'll earn $5,000 managed for free.
3. Get $10 and Reduce Your Business Costs by Shopping at AppSumo • https://bit.ly/reiappsumo
4. Get $10 Towards Your First Purchase at Drop • https://drop.com/?referer=3DC729

Mentioned in this episode:

book a Fit Call at RealDealCrew.com

One answered phone call launched Brian Truman into multifamily real estate—and built a career powered by relationships, not transactions.

In this episode of RealDealChat, Brian Truman shares the unlikely origin story that launched his multifamily career just weeks after getting his real estate license—starting with a Saturday night phone call, a last-minute 1031 exchange, and a connection that changed everything.

Brian breaks down why commercial real estate is a relationship business, how a small group of repeat clients can create massive leverage, and what he’s seeing right now in multifamily markets—from emerging tertiary cities to distressed assets, seller carrybacks, and creative financing.

We also dig into imposter syndrome, building a trusted network fast, spotting real opportunities in uncertain markets, and why answering your phone still matters more than any tech stack.

📞 Connect with Brian directly:

Call or text: 615-260-2121

Call to Action:

If this episode helped you rethink networking and deal flow, share it with one investor friend—and learn more at https://realdealcrew.com

Keywords: multifamily real estate, commercial real estate broker, Brian Truman, multifamily investing, relationship based sales, 1031 exchange investing, emerging real estate markets, seller financing multifamily, creative real estate finance, commercial real estate networking, investor relationships, real estate deal flow, RealDealChat podcast

RealDealCrew.com

We empower real estate investors by optimizing your business processes through customized automation and system integration. From lead management to deal closure, we help you build a scalable and efficient operation. Learn more at RealDealCrew.com

LIKE • SHARE • JOIN • REVIEW

1. Website
2. Apple Podcasts
3. YouTube
4. YouTube Music
5. Spotify
6. Amazon Music
7. Facebook
8. Twitter
9. Instagram

SUPPORT THE SHOW!

1. If you are new to Wealthfront, and open a Cash Account, you'll get a 0.50% APY boost for 3 months.
2. Open an Automated Index Investing Account or Automated Bond Portfolio, you'll earn $5,000 managed for free.
3. Get $10 and Reduce Your Business Costs by Shopping at AppSumo • https://bit.ly/reiappsumo
4. Get $10 Towards Your First Purchase at Drop • https://drop.com/?referer=3DC729

Mentioned in this episode:

book a Fit Call at RealDealCrew.com