The Land Development Podcast with Ryan Glick

Share your feedback or provide industry news topics.

Ryan Glick and co-host Charles Covey dive into the FED's decision to slash interest rates by half a point, marking the first rate cut in four years. Ryan and Charles break down what this means for developers, homebuyers, and the broader real estate industry. They discuss how the market has already priced in the rate cut and what to expect from future FED meetings.

As election season heats up, the episode shifts to a discussion on homebuyer sentiment. With many buyers sitting on the sidelines, Ryan and Charles analyze how political uncertainty is influencing real estate decisions. From buyer hesitation due to election results to the long-term impacts of the FED's rate cuts, they examine how timing and market conditions may shape 2024's housing trends.

Next, they explore private capital’s growing interest in distressed office assets. With office property values dropping significantly, some investors are seeing opportunities to buy at discounted rates. Ryan and Charles explain why primary markets are becoming hotspots for these deals and how the pandemic has shifted the landscape of office real estate.

To wrap things up, Ryan and Charles discuss what they expect for the coming months. From the potential for a recession to the continued influence of interest rates, they predict key trends that could shape real estate through the end of the year and into 2025.

All links to the articles discussed during this episode can be found on the show notes page: https://letsgroov.com/podcast/industry-news-fed-cuts-rates-by-half-point-home-buyers-cautious-private-capital-buying-office-assets.

Share your feedback or provide industry news topics.

In this episode, Ryan sits down with Sean Myers, the managing director of Bright Leaf Properties and co-founder of Great Leaf Homes, to discuss his journey into the world of real estate development. Originally an English major with a career in advertising, Sean shares how a chance encounter with a home renovator sparked his interest in real estate and ultimately led him to land development. Starting out as a residential agent and flipping houses, Sean’s story highlights the power of pivoting towards what truly excites you.

Sean walks us through the world of land development, offering an inside look at the long and often complex process of entitling land for future projects. From zoning challenges to managing a team of experts, Sean explains how his career evolved from selling small homes to working on major development projects across Central Florida. With a focus on both Bright Leaf Properties and Great Leaf Homes, he discusses the balance between large-scale land development and the personal touch of homebuilding.

One of the key themes in the conversation is risk management in development. Sean emphasizes the importance of picking the right projects, learning to rely on experts, and navigating the sometimes daunting unknowns that come with large developments. His real-life experiences, from working on 7,000 lots before the financial crisis to developing new subdivisions, offer valuable lessons for those looking to enter the industry or expand their existing business.

Finally, Sean shares advice for aspiring developers, from the importance of networking to how to approach complicated projects. He also touches on the build-to-rent trend, explaining how it’s shaping the future of the housing market. Whether you’re a seasoned developer or just starting out, this episode is packed with practical insights into the world of land development and homebuilding.

Guest Details:
Name: Sean Myers
Role: Co-Founder @ Greatleaf Homes & Managing Director of Brightleaf Properties

Links: 

• Greatleaf Website: https://greatleafhomes.com/
• Sean’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seanmyers1/

The show notes page for this episode can be found at https://letsgroov.com/podcast/choosing-the-right-projects-and-managing-risk-in-land-development. 

Share your feedback or provide industry news topics.

In this week's industry news episode, Ryan Glick and Charles Covey explore the latest housing market data. They begin with a discussion on single-family construction, which has been growing despite high interest rates, while multifamily housing permits are steadily declining.

Charles sheds light on the increasing dominance of national and regional builders, which have better access to capital, leaving smaller local builders struggling to compete. He explains how this shift in market share affects local economies, as larger national builders continue to take over. They also discuss the challenges small builders face, such as rising costs for permits and supplies, which makes it difficult for them to develop lots at the same pace as their larger competitors.

Next, the conversation shifts to the broader policy issues impacting the housing market. Ryan and Charles react to a Fox Business interview with Jim Tobin from the National Association of Homebuilders, where he highlights the critical need for production-side incentives rather than demand-side solutions like down payment assistance. They examine how government regulations, including costly new energy codes, are driving up the price of housing, while tariffs on Canadian lumber are also playing a role.

Wrapping up the episode, Ryan and Charles turn their attention to the housing crisis in Texas, where the state’s rapid population growth has outpaced new home construction. They discuss how Dallas-Fort Worth, one of the hardest-hit regions, has seen home prices skyrocket by almost 50% since 2020. The hosts weigh in on what’s being done at the state and national levels to address this issue and predict how the housing market might evolve in the coming years.

All links to the articles discussed during this episode can be found on the show notes page: https://letsgroov.com/podcast/industry-news-single-family-output-up-incentives-needed-for-housing-production-homes-needed-in-texas.

Share your feedback or provide industry news topics.

In today’s episode of the Land Development Podcast, Ryan Glick is joined by Dustin Kinder, CEO of Maverick Water Group, to explore the role of water management in the real estate development industry. Dustin shares his journey from agriculture to founding Maverick, highlighting the big moments that led him to recognize water’s potential as a powerful tool for good.

Dustin provides an inside look at how Maverick Water Group is revolutionizing the way water infrastructure is designed, built, and operated in master-planned communities. He explains the "Design-Build-Own-Operate-Maintain" (DBOOM) model that Maverick employs, which offers developers a cost-effective, sustainable solution to meet their water needs without the upfront capital outlay. This approach not only benefits developers but also ensures long-term savings for homeowners by reducing water costs.

Throughout the conversation, Dustin emphasizes the importance of aligning water usage with its highest and best purpose, particularly in areas facing water scarcity like Texas. He details how Maverick’s closed-loop systems use non-potable water sources for irrigation, thus conserving valuable freshwater resources.

Dustin also reflects on the challenges and successes of implementing Maverick’s business model in large-scale projects, such as the Painted Tree community in McKinney, Texas. This fast-paced, high-profile development tested every aspect of Maverick’s operations and proved the effectiveness of their innovative approach.

Guest Details:
Name: Dustin Kinder
Role: CEO @ Maverick Water

Links: 

• Maverick Water Website: https://maverickwater.com/
• Dustin’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinkinder/

The show notes page for this episode can be found at https://letsgroov.com/podcast/the-future-of-water-in-real-estate-development. 

Share your feedback or provide industry news topics.

Ryan Glick is joined by Charles Covey for an industry news episode that dives deep into three key headlines impacting the real estate market today.

First, they discuss the record number of homebuyer cancellations in July, analyzing why so many deals fell through despite falling mortgage rates. Charles sheds light on how the upcoming election year historically cools the market and what we can expect as the political climate continues to heat up. The conversation also touches on the role of new home construction in these cancellations and how builders are navigating the current economic landscape.

Next, Ryan and Charles examine the latest inflation data, noting a drop below 3% for the first time since 2021. However, they highlight the ongoing challenge of rising housing costs and the complex relationship between inflation, interest rates, and housing supply. Charles argues for the need for a national housing strategy to address these persistent issues and predicts how future rate cuts might influence the market.

Lastly, the episode covers a significant surge in mortgage refinancing, signaling potential shifts in consumer confidence and market trends. The duo explores what this could mean for the housing market's future, particularly for new home sales and existing homeowners with low-interest rates. They also speculate on the potential impact of these trends on the broader real estate market as we move closer to the post-election period.

All links to the articles discussed during this episode can be found on the show notes page: https://letsgroov.com/podcast/industry-news-record-buyers-backing-out-of-deals-inflation-falls-surge-in-refinancing.  

Share your feedback or provide industry news topics.

In this episode of The Land Development Podcast, Ryan sits down with Harsh Thakker, the founding principal of Dorado Capital, to explore his journey into the world of real estate. Harsh shares how his start in the industry began during an internship at a commercial brokerage while studying international politics at Georgetown. He discusses the transition from working with mortgage-backed securities to founding his own firm, highlighting the key moments that shaped Dorado Capital.

Harsh dives into the details of Dorado’s early projects, which began just months before covid. He opens up about the challenges faced during the pandemic, including supply chain disruptions and on-site restrictions that delayed project timelines. Despite these obstacles, Harsh explains how strong relationships with contractors and strategic partnerships helped his firm navigate through uncertain times.

The conversation also covers the intricacies of real estate development in the DC and Richmond areas. Harsh sheds light on the permitting processes and regulatory hurdles that vary between jurisdictions, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and contingency planning in this industry. He shares insights into how Dorado Capital is expanding its pipeline of residential developments, ensuring a steady flow of projects through 2027.

Guest Details:
Name: Harsh Thakker
Role: Founding Principal @ Dorado Capital

Links: 

• Dorado Capital Website: https://dorado.capital/
• Harsh’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harsh-thakker/

The show notes page for this episode can be found at https://letsgroov.com/podcast/growing-a-real-estate-development-company-in-dc-and-richmond. 

Share your feedback or provide industry news topics.

In this Industry News episode, Ryan and Charles discuss the significant shifts in the U.S. Treasury yields and what the market is predicting for future Fed rate cuts. Charles provides his insights into how these potential cuts could influence borrowing costs and project feasibility in the land development sector, as well as the broader economic implications.

Next, they tackle the rise in starter home prices across the U.S., with some cities now seeing these homes valued at over $1 million. Ryan and Charles break down the realities behind these figures, discussing the geographic concentration of these high prices and what it means for first-time home buyers and developers alike. They also explore the broader migration patterns and the shift toward more affordable regions.

The episode then shifts to an in-depth look at the 32% increase in office leasing activity in Q2. The hosts analyze what this resurgence means for the future of office spaces, particularly in the context of the post-pandemic work environment. They discuss the potential long-term changes in office space utilization and how businesses are adapting to new workplace expectations.

All links to the articles discussed during this episode can be found on the show notes page: https://letsgroov.com/podcast/industry-news-treasury-yields-drop-starter-home-price-changes-office-leasing-increases.

Share your feedback or provide industry news topics.

In this episode of the Land Development Podcast, Ryan sits down with Jake Sigler, Partner at BC2 Holdings, to discuss his path from an engineering student to a successful real estate developer. Jake shares his early influences, including how mentorship shaped his career path.

Jake shares his educational background, explaining how his engineering degree from Texas State and his MBA from SMU have helped him gain unique perspectives and skills that have been invaluable in his real estate career. He emphasizes the importance of networking and involvement in organizations, sharing how these connections have opened doors and provided opportunities.

Jake also talks about his time at Medcorp Partners, where he gained knowledge of the development process and received mentorship from industry leaders. He also shares the challenges of starting his own company, BC2 Holdings, and how he navigated the complexities of the real estate market, particularly during covid.

Guest Details:
Name: Jake Sigler
Role: Partner @ BC2 Holdings

Links: 

• BC2 Holdings Website: https://bc2holdings.com/
• Jake’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jake-sigler/

The show notes page for this episode can be found at https://letsgroov.com/podcast/developing-single-family-build-to-rent-communities. 

Share your feedback or provide industry news topics.

In this industry news episode, we explore three headlines affecting the real estate industry.

First, we dive into the Project 2025 proposal, a conservative blueprint gaining attention in political and business circles. This 900-page document outlines a firm stance on maintaining single-family zoning and suggests changes to housing vouchers and federal transit subsidies. We discuss how these policies might influence the housing market, especially the multifamily sector, and the broader implications for affordable housing.

Next, we analyze the recent drop in the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate to its lowest level since March 2024. Despite this decline, mortgage applications have not surged as expected. We consider why homebuyers might be hesitant and what this means for future demand, especially if the Federal Reserve cuts rates further.

Finally, we review the housing market's trends since 2020, using data from various sources to highlight affordability challenges and shifting dynamics. We discuss the significant increase in home prices, the impact of interest rate changes, and the affordability pressures many potential buyers face.

All links to the articles discussed during this episode can be found on the show notes page: https://letsgroov.com/podcast/industry-news-project-2025-housing-position-mortgage-rate-drops-housing-market-since-2020. 

Share your feedback or provide industry news topics.

Today, your hosts, Ryan Glick and Charles Covey, dig into several real estate industry articles. They start by looking at an article which argues that new construction offers better value for developers amid a severe housing shortage.

Next, they shift their focus to an article from CNBC that explores why housing inflation remains high. Despite a cooling in the broader economy, the slow decline in housing costs continues to impact the Consumer Price Index (CPI). Charles shares his insights into the outdated methods of calculating the CPI and how modern data collection could provide more accurate and timely economic indicators.

Finally, Ryan and Charles review a visualization from Visual Capitalist, mapping the growth of house prices by state in 2024.

All links to the articles discussed during this episode can be found on the show notes page: https://letsgroov.com/podcast/industry-new-prioritizing-new-construction-high-housing-inflation-us-house-prices-by-state.