Discover the heart and hustle behind every investment in this episode featuring Michael Perrin. Learn how knowing your market, cultivating tenant relationships, and thinking long-term can be the foundation for a stable, successful real estate portfolio—no matter where you start. Tune in!

What you’ll learn from this episode

• Advantages of investing in local assets 

• The value of the risk diversification and management efficiency of multi-tenant properties

• Reasons why Michael prefers working with community lenders 

• Benefits of utilizing a property management firm for strategic upgrades and decision-making

• How to balance technology and real estate investments

Resources mentioned in this episode 

• The Real Estate Game by William J. Poorvu and Jeffrey L. Cruikshank | Hardcover

• Cushman & Wakefield 

• Bowery Valuation 

About Michael Perrin

Michael has over 10 years of experience in private equity, banking, corporate finance / M&A, and technology project management. Michael joined Next Level Ventures in 2019 from Great Western Bank, a publicly traded regional institution in the Midwest, where he was a commercial banker. He previously worked at Walmart Inc. in a number of capacities, including corporate finance, M&A, and merchandising technology. Before graduate business school, Michael spent four years in commercial real estate investment banking and private equity in Dallas, TX. He received a BS from Cornell University in 2009 and his MBA from the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth in 2015.

Connect with Michael

• Website: Next Level Ventures 

• LinkedIn: Michael Perrin 

Connect with us

For more insights and updates, follow us on social media and visit our website: https://theinvestinginiowashow.com/.

Explore Middlebrook with Tim Portzen, where Iowa’s first agricultural neighborhood takes shape. Nestled just off I-35, this 800-acre community masterfully blends modern living with rural charm, uniting residential, commercial, and agricultural spaces. Discover how Middlebrook evolved from a bold recession-era idea into a thriving hub for community-focused living.

What you’ll learn from this episode

• The concept and development process of Iowa's first Agrihood, Middlebrook

• Diligent Development's shift from distressed assets to major community projects

• Strategies for managing large land tracts and developing income properties

• Challenges and intricacies of developing a new town from the ground up

• Tim's upcoming real estate projects and developments

Resources mentioned in this episode 

• Middlebrook Agrihood

• Missing Middle Housing by Daniel G. Parolek | Kindle and Paperback

• Ishmael by Daniel Quinn |  Kindle and Paperback

About Tim Portzen

Tim Portzen is Vice President of Diligent Development, where he's spent over 13 years shaping communities through real estate development. Residing in Adel, Iowa, Tim and his wife enjoy local outings, like trips to Brenton Arboretum with their dog, Kelso, and visiting Wilson's Orchard at Middlebrook, a project close to Tim's heart. With Diligent's latest project, Middlebrook Meadow, Tim is excited to introduce a scenic hiking trail that connects with the Great Western Bike Trail. Passionate about creating lasting communities, Tim is helping Diligent bring Iowa's first agri-hood to life.

Connect with Tim 

• Website: Diligent Development

• LinkedIn: Tim Portzen

• Email: [email protected]

Connect with us

For more insights and updates, follow us on social media and visit our website: https://theinvestinginiowashow.com/.

As an English major turned real estate developer, Danny Heggen has a unique perspective on the role of communication in the industry. In this episode, he delves into the significance of storytelling, both in terms of presenting projects to stakeholders and in fostering strong relationships with investors, partners, and community members. Hop in!

What you’ll learn from this episode

• Advantages of wearing multiple hats as a developer

• How focusing on local real estate impacts local economies and supports growth

• How to strategically employ tax credits, TIF agreements, and other tools to make rural development financially viable

• The value of long-term stability over quick profits

• Why keeping teams aligned and organized is critical for successful real estate projects

Resources mentioned in this episode 

• Against the Gods by Peter L. Bernstein | Paperback, Hardcover, and Kindle 

• Travels with Charley in Search of America by John Steinbeck | Paperback and Kindle 

• The Checklist Manifesto by Atul Gawande | Paperback, Hardcover, and Kindle 

• Pattern Breakers by Mike Maples Jr and Peter Ziebelman | Hardcover and Kindle 

About Danny Heggen

Danny initially pursued a career in medicine but discovered a passion for writing, eventually leading him to an unexpected yet fulfilling role in real estate development. As the CFO of a development team, Danny has been deeply involved in acquisitions and projects across Iowa for over a decade, living by his mantra, "Never a dead end."

In recent years, he has honed a unique expertise in leveraging city, state, and federal incentives for housing projects. Over the past three years, Danny has successfully led and supported more than $60 million in development projects, securing over $21 million in incentives to support housing and community growth across Iowa.

Connect with Danny

• Website: DEV Partners

• LinkedIn: Danny Heggen 

Connect with us

For more insights and updates, follow us on social media and visit our website: https://theinvestinginiowashow.com/.

Step into the future of real estate with Collyn Chipera, where small-town beginnings meet cutting-edge appraisal techniques. Explore how AI is revolutionizing valuations, the essentials of data security, and the thrills of first-time investing. Perfect for anyone aiming to decode the dynamics of real estate investment—this episode packs a punch!

What you’ll learn from this episode

• Collyn’s transition from commercial lending to appraisals

• Valuation and appraisal strategies in determining property values.

• How rising interest rates have impacted cap rates across all property types

• The innovative role of AI in real estate appraisal

• What Collyn aims for in 2025 for appraisal credentials and portfolio growth

Resources mentioned in this episode 

• SitusAMC

• BiggerPockets Real Estate Podcast 

• The Book on Investing In Real Estate with No (and Low) Money Down by Brandon Turner | Kindle, Audiobook, and Paperback 

About Collyn Chipera

Collyn Chipera is a Senior Analyst in Appraisal & Consulting at SitusAMC, based in Des Moines, Iowa. A University of Northern Iowa alumnus with degrees in Finance and Real Estate, Collyn initially explored commercial lending before transitioning into appraisals. At SitusAMC, he focuses on limited-scope appraisal reports for various property types, including multifamily, industrial, and office properties. He has a passion for real estate investing, starting with a house hack on a duplex and regularly attending real estate meetups. Outside of work, Collyn actively grows his real estate portfolio, aiming to acquire more rental properties in the coming years.

Connect with Collyn

• Facebook: Collyn Chipera

• LinkedIn: Collyn Chipera    

Connect with us

For more insights and updates, follow us on social media and visit our website: https://theinvestinginiowashow.com/.

In this episode, Aaron DeJong shares insights on Urbandale’s new comprehensive plan and how strategic planning and economic diversity are shaping the future of the thriving Iowa community. Learn how this city is evolving to meet the needs of its residents and businesses, all while maintaining its unique charm and community spirit.

What you’ll learn from this episode

• The importance of diversifying land use and creating mixed-use developments
• Main objectives of the revitalization and investments in Urbandale
• Perks of having economic development leaders working together rather than competing internally
• Urbandale’s new comprehensive plan and the crucial factors for a successful economic development
• Important qualities an economic development director should possess 

Resources mentioned in this episode 

• City of Urbandale - Comprehensive Plan

About Aaron DeJong

Aaron DeJong serves as the Economic Development Director for City of Urbandale, Iowa.  He has been practicing economic development for 18 years for communities in Iowa and Colorado.  Specializing in difficult redevelopment efforts and projects, Aaron has assisted the private sector in successfully transitioning vacant industrial areas, struggling downtowns, and underutilized commercial corridors into exciting areas where business and the community meet.

Connect with Aaron

• Website: Economic Development | Urbandale, IA
• LinkedIn: Aaron DeJong

Connect with us

For more insights and updates, follow us on social media and visit our website: https://theinvestinginiowashow.com/.

How do you turn a single duplex into a thriving real estate empire? Join Ben Latusek, a seasoned investor who’s done just that. Learn the ins and outs of property management, value-add strategies, and crafting effective business plans. Discover practical tips on tenant relations, utility billing systems (RUBS), and maximizing property management software for greater efficiency, all from Ben’s extensive experience.

What you’ll learn from this episode

• Why it’s critical to have a clear business plan for each property

• Commercial vs. residential property management

• Ben’s future outlook and market dynamics 

• An expert’s personal advice for young investors 

• The value of community and networking in real estate

Resources mentioned in this episode 

• Who Not How by  Dan Sullivan and Benjamin Hardy | Kindle, Hardcover, and Paperback

• From Stress to Success by John Paul | Kindle and Paperback

About Ben Latusek

Ben Latusek, owner of Synergy Property Management, is an EDP Engineer at John Deere, specializing in data analytics for the Integrated Technology team. A graduate of Iowa State University with a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering and an MBA in Finance, Ben was also a student-athlete in football, gaining leadership and teamwork skills. In 2022, he founded Latus Capital, a real estate investment company where he handles property management, financial analysis, and project management, offering investment opportunities for friends, family, and himself.

Connect with Ben

• Website: Synergy Property Management

• LinkedIn: Benjamin Latusek

• Email: [email protected]

Connect with us

For more insights and updates, follow us on social media and visit our website: https://theinvestinginiowashow.com/.

Join us as we chat with Brandon Danielson, CPA, who rose from a tough upbringing of family addiction and homelessness, to build a successful career and pursue financial freedom through real estate. Hear about his first deal during COVID-19, lessons learned managing contractors, and how he’s growing his portfolio while balancing a full-time job. It’s an inspiring story of determination, proving you can achieve your goals no matter where you start.

What you’ll learn from this episode

• How Brandon used house hacking as a foundation for financial freedom and real estate investing.

• Lessons Brandon learned from his first property

• The importance of automating property management processes

• Common property management challenges and how to overcome them

• Strategies for expanding a real estate portfolio 

Resources mentioned in this episode 

• Shoe Dog by Phil Knight | Paperback, Hardcover, and Kindle

• BiggerPockets Real Estate Podcast | Apple Podcasts 

• Rent Ready

About Brandon Danielson, CPA

Brandon has over ten years of progressive accounting and finance experience, primarily in the agricultural, manufacturing, construction, not-for-profit, hospitality, and real estate industries. He has strong financial leadership in financial planning and analysis, financial reporting, modeling, budgeting, and financial data integration. Brandon is passionate about using automation to help companies focus on implementing value-add activities.

Connect with Brandon

• LinkedIn: Brandon Danielson, CPA

• Instagram: @brando_danielson

• Facebook: Brandon Danielson 

Connect with us

For more insights and updates, follow us on social media and visit our website: https://theinvestinginiowashow.com/.

From small-town beginnings to leading real estate investments, Ryan Jensen, CCIM’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. Join us as he shares how he overcame the 2008 recession and financial setbacks to thrive in the multifamily, industrial, and hospitality sectors. Get ready for deep insights into syndication, creative financing, and finding deals in blue-collar markets!

What you’ll learn from this episode

• An overview of Compounding Capital’s syndication strategy 

• Major upsides of industrial and hospitality investments

• The main complexities of financing hotels

• How Ryan’s modest upbringing shaped his approach to investing

• Expert tips and tricks for young entrepreneurs

Resources mentioned in this episode 

• Marriott.com

About Ryan Jensen, CCIM

Ryan Jensen, CCIM, began his commercial real estate career in 2007 with Hubbell Realty and joined CBRE in 2008, providing tailored real estate solutions for clients. As a top producer at CBRE, Ryan has been involved in over a billion dollars in transactions and consistently ranks among the top five for production volume. In response to growing interest from his network, Ryan co-founded Compounding Capital with Ted Oswald in 2020, offering accredited investors access to a portfolio of hospitality, industrial, and NNN properties. Compounding Capital allows investors to benefit from real estate ownership without the operational complexities.

Connect with Ryan

• Website: Compounding Capital Holdings | CBRE

• LinkedIn: Ryan J. Jensen, CCIM   

Connect with us

For more insights and updates, follow us on social media and visit our website: https://theinvestinginiowashow.com/.

Discover the secrets behind one investor's transition from student housing to built-to-rent townhomes in this can't-miss episode. Join us as we sit down with Jeff Niemeier, founder of JB Capital, to explore his strategic shift in the evolving real estate landscape and the innovative strategies fueling his success. Listen now to uncover the insights that could revolutionize your own real estate investing approach.

What you’ll learn from this episode

• Key differences between syndication and fund models in real estate

• Creative financing strategies to bring landowners as partners 

• Benefits and challenges of the build-to-rent model in Iowa

• Important skills for successful real estate investors

• Why Jeff chose to focus on long-term investments and rarely sell his properties

Resources mentioned in this episode 

• Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert T. Kiyosaki | Paperback and Kindle 

• Rich Dad's CASHFLOW Quadrant by Robert T. Kiyosaki | Paperback, Hardcover, and Kindle 

• Raising Capital for Real Estate by Hunter Thompson | Paperback and Kindle 

About Jeff Niemeier

Jeff Niemeier is a serial entrepreneur, fund manager, real estate developer/investor, and coach. With a successful career in Information Technology and consulting, Jeff transitioned into entrepreneurship in 2002 by starting his first business as a Wireless Internet Service Provider (WISP) and Private Cable Operator (PCO). After building and selling this business to venture capital, he moved into real estate investing, focusing on single-family, multi-family, and student housing properties. Jeff sponsored his first real estate syndication in 2011 and launched his first private real estate fund in 2019. He now hosts the Student of Money podcast, where he teaches financial principles to achieve financial freedom through passive income.

Connect with Jeff

• Website: JB Capital Fund | Student of Money

• Podcasts: Student of Money | Apple Podcasts 

Connect with us

For more insights and updates, follow us on social media and visit our website: https://theinvestinginiowashow.com/.

Looking to scale your real estate game? Mila Schwarz shares her journey from a single duplex to managing 65 doors, revealing the power of partnerships, self-management, and creative financing. Plus, hear her tips on networking and future plans in syndication and writing by tuning in today!

What you’ll learn from this episode

• The value of continuous education and networking 

• Common challenges of property management

• Creative financing strategies for funding acquisitions

• How tenant relationships help maintain a waitlist for properties

• An upcoming book you don’t want to miss

Resources mentioned in this episode 

• Text "Mila" to 33777

• RentTech

• BiggerPockets Real Estate Podcast

• AppFolio

• Buying Back Your Time by Dan Martell | Kindle and Hardcover

• Psycho-Cybernetics | Kindle and Paperback

• The Pumpkin Plan by Mike Michalowicz | Kindle and Hardcover

About Mila Schwarz

Mila Schwarz is the Vice President of Property Management at Ten13 Properties and TMS Investments, LLC in West Des Moines, Iowa. She began her real estate journey in 2006 and now manages 65 doors, including single-family homes, duplexes, and multifamily units. Mila specializes in property management, midterm rentals, and creative financing. Active in the Des Moines real estate community, she regularly attends seminars and meetups to grow her network and share insights. Mila is also writing a book, The Art of Adulting: 10 Essential Life Skills, aimed at helping others with practical life lessons.

Connect with Mila

• Phone: 33777 (text)   

Connect with us

For more insights and updates, follow us on social media and visit our website: https://theinvestinginiowashow.com/.