The Norris Group Real Estate Radio Show and Podcast

I SURVIVED REAL ESTATE 2025

The Norris Group Presents: The 18th Annual I Survived Real Estate – LIVE at the Nixon Presidential Library

The Norris Group’s award-winning black-tie gala, I Survived Real Estate, returns for its 18th year.  Since 2008, I Survived Real Estate has supported Make-A-Wish OC & IE—and thanks to your generosity, we’ve now raised over $1.2 million for children in need 

This year’s backdrop?

A California housing market still starved for inventory, mortgage rates hovering above comfort zones, affordability hitting generational lows, inflation and tariffs. Add in global uncertainty, sticky inflation, and the ever-watchful eye of the Federal Reserve—and you’ve got a landscape full of questions.

• Inventory Drought: California’s housing supply remains critically low
• Rate Pressure: Mortgage rates linger well above buyer comfort zones
• Priced Out: Affordability has collapsed to generational lows
• Global Tensions: War, tariffs, and instability rattle investor confidence
• Inflation’s Grip: Costs remain stubbornly high, squeezing margins
• Tariff Troubles: Rising import costs could ripple through construction and development
• All Eyes on the Fed: Every rate hint could send shockwaves through the market

 Our expert panel brings top minds in economics, investing, and housing to help us prepare for what’s next. I Survived Real Estate was born from crisis, with a mission to unite thought leaders, give back, and guide our industry forward. 

In this episode:

• Bruce Norris, Tony Alvarez, and Peter Fortunato bring decades of experience and distinct investment philosophies.
• Why low rates don’t always translate to market growth?
• Market Outlook: Cautious optimism from Bruce Norris backed by historical trends suggesting a potential flat cycle.
• Creative Financing with Peter Fortunato: How long-term relationships and deal structure create lasting opportunity.
• Market Confidence with Tony Alvarez: The importance of hyper-local focus and truly understanding value.
• Relationship Capital: How business deals can become foundations for lifelong partnerships.
• Advice for New Investors: Mindset, strategy, and connection over quick wins.

The Norris Group originates and services loans in California and Florida under California DRE License 01219911, Florida Mortgage Lender License 1577, and NMLS License 1623669.  For more information on hard money lending, go www.thenorrisgroup.com and click the Hard Money tab.


Video Link

Radio Show

I SURVIVED REAL ESTATE 2025

The Norris Group Presents: The 18th Annual I Survived Real Estate – LIVE at the Nixon Presidential Library

The Norris Group’s award-winning black-tie gala, I Survived Real Estate, returns for its 18th year.  Since 2008, I Survived Real Estate has supported Make-A-Wish OC & IE—and thanks to your generosity, we’ve now raised over $1.2 million for children in need 

This year’s backdrop?

A California housing market still starved for inventory, mortgage rates hovering above comfort zones, affordability hitting generational lows, inflation and tariffs. Add in global uncertainty, sticky inflation, and the ever-watchful eye of the Federal Reserve—and you’ve got a landscape full of questions.

• Inventory Drought: California’s housing supply remains critically low
• Rate Pressure: Mortgage rates linger well above buyer comfort zones
• Priced Out: Affordability has collapsed to generational lows
• Global Tensions: War, tariffs, and instability rattle investor confidence
• Inflation’s Grip: Costs remain stubbornly high, squeezing margins
• Tariff Troubles: Rising import costs could ripple through construction and development
• All Eyes on the Fed: Every rate hint could send shockwaves through the market

 Our expert panel brings top minds in economics, investing, and housing to help us prepare for what’s next. I Survived Real Estate was born from crisis, with a mission to unite thought leaders, give back, and guide our industry forward. 

In this episode:

• Assessing lending risks in today’s economy
• Shifts in lending standards and credit conditions
• The impact of California’s policies on real estate investors
• Exploring future opportunities for real estate investing

The Norris Group originates and services loans in California and Florida under California DRE License 01219911, Florida Mortgage Lender License 1577, and NMLS License 1623669.  For more information on hard money lending, go www.thenorrisgroup.com and click the Hard Money tab.


Video Link

Radio Show

I SURVIVED REAL ESTATE 2025

The Norris Group Presents: The 18th Annual I Survived Real Estate – LIVE at the Nixon Presidential Library

The Norris Group’s award-winning black-tie gala, I Survived Real Estate, returns for its 18th year.  Since 2008, I Survived Real Estate has supported Make-A-Wish OC & IE—and thanks to your generosity, we’ve now raised over $1.2 million for children in need 

This year’s backdrop?

A California housing market still starved for inventory, mortgage rates hovering above comfort zones, affordability hitting generational lows, inflation and tariffs. Add in global uncertainty, sticky inflation, and the ever-watchful eye of the Federal Reserve—and you’ve got a landscape full of questions.

• Inventory Drought: California’s housing supply remains critically low
• Rate Pressure: Mortgage rates linger well above buyer comfort zones
• Priced Out: Affordability has collapsed to generational lows
• Global Tensions: War, tariffs, and instability rattle investor confidence
• Inflation’s Grip: Costs remain stubbornly high, squeezing margins
• Tariff Troubles: Rising import costs could ripple through construction and development
• All Eyes on the Fed: Every rate hint could send shockwaves through the market

 Our expert panel brings top minds in economics, investing, and housing to help us prepare for what’s next. I Survived Real Estate was born from crisis, with a mission to unite thought leaders, give back, and guide our industry forward. 

In this episode:

• The Fed’s interest rate decisions and their effect on inflation
• Border closures and their impact on employment and affordability
• Is California at a breaking point with housing affordability?
• Economic forecasts and the future of the housing market
• Doug Duncan on a potential tax refund “sugar rush” in early 2025
• The impact of tariffs and shifts in the job market
• Healthcare job growth and broader economic concerns

The Norris Group originates and services loans in California and Florida under California DRE License 01219911, Florida Mortgage Lender License 1577, and NMLS License 1623669.  For more information on hard money lending, go www.thenorrisgroup.com and click the Hard Money tab.


Video Link

Radio Show

I SURVIVED REAL ESTATE 2025

The Norris Group Presents: The 18th Annual I Survived Real Estate – LIVE at the Nixon Presidential Library

The Norris Group’s award-winning black-tie gala, I Survived Real Estate, returns for its 18th year.  Since 2008, I Survived Real Estate has supported Make-A-Wish OC & IE—and thanks to your generosity, we’ve now raised over $1.2 million for children in need 

This year’s backdrop?

A California housing market still starved for inventory, mortgage rates hovering above comfort zones, affordability hitting generational lows, inflation and tariffs. Add in global uncertainty, sticky inflation, and the ever-watchful eye of the Federal Reserve—and you’ve got a landscape full of questions.

• Inventory Drought: California’s housing supply remains critically low
• Rate Pressure: Mortgage rates linger well above buyer comfort zones
• Priced Out: Affordability has collapsed to generational lows
• Global Tensions: War, tariffs, and instability rattle investor confidence
• Inflation’s Grip: Costs remain stubbornly high, squeezing margins
• Tariff Troubles: Rising import costs could ripple through construction and development
• All Eyes on the Fed: Every rate hint could send shockwaves through the market

 Our expert panel brings top minds in economics, investing, and housing to help us prepare for what’s next. I Survived Real Estate was born from crisis, with a mission to unite thought leaders, give back, and guide our industry forward. 

In this episode:

• Exploring the connection between Median Household Income and Median Home Prices
• Introduction to the MoodOdometer, a new way to measure market sentiment
• Looking back at historical market conditions through the MoodOdometer lens
• Craig Evans and Bruce Norris on how interest rates shape market mood and buyer behavior
• Craig Evans unveils the National MoodOdometer
• Announcement of a new digital platform offering real-time housing data and insights

The Norris Group originates and services loans in California and Florida under California DRE License 01219911, Florida Mortgage Lender License 1577, and NMLS License 1623669.  For more information on hard money lending, go www.thenorrisgroup.com and click the Hard Money tab.


Video Link

Radio Show

I SURVIVED REAL ESTATE 2025

The Norris Group Presents: The 18th Annual I Survived Real Estate – LIVE at the Nixon Presidential Library

The Norris Group’s award-winning black-tie gala, I Survived Real Estate, returns for its 18th year.  Since 2008, I Survived Real Estate has supported Make-A-Wish OC & IE—and thanks to your generosity, we’ve now raised over $1.2 million for children in need 

This year’s backdrop?

A California housing market still starved for inventory, mortgage rates hovering above comfort zones, affordability hitting generational lows, inflation and tariffs. Add in global uncertainty, sticky inflation, and the ever-watchful eye of the Federal Reserve—and you’ve got a landscape full of questions.

• Inventory Drought: California’s housing supply remains critically low
• Rate Pressure: Mortgage rates linger well above buyer comfort zones
• Priced Out: Affordability has collapsed to generational lows
• Global Tensions: War, tariffs, and instability rattle investor confidence
• Inflation’s Grip: Costs remain stubbornly high, squeezing margins
• Tariff Troubles: Rising import costs could ripple through construction and development
• All Eyes on the Fed: Every rate hint could send shockwaves through the market

 Our expert panel brings top minds in economics, investing, and housing to help us prepare for what’s next. I Survived Real Estate was born from crisis, with a mission to unite thought leaders, give back, and guide our industry forward. 

In this episode:

• Craig Evans reflects on the history of I Survived Real Estate, honoring Aaron Norris’ influence and the event’s mission of giving back.
• Anne Grey of Make-A-Wish OC & IE shares gratitude for The Norris Group’s support and the life-changing impact of donations.
• Discussion on key real estate metrics and their historical context.
• Bruce Norris highlights median price as a vital indicator of real estate cycles.
  Affordability as a signal for the end of a boom or start of a downturn.
• Comparing California’s median price to the national median to track market trends.
• Historical look at new home vs. existing home prices, and why their intersection matters.

The Norris Group originates and services loans in California and Florida under California DRE License 01219911, Florida Mortgage Lender License 1577, and NMLS License 1623669.  For more information on hard money lending, go www.thenorrisgroup.com and click the Hard Money tab.


Video Link

Radio Show

In Part 2, Brent Lee dives into market trends, the impact of interest rates, and the importance of mentorship and culture at Tower Agency. He also shares personal reflections on balancing business, family, and community while offering practical advice for both agents and clients. Joey Romero guides the conversation through key topics such as pricing strategies, adapting to market shifts, and the role of mentorship in fostering a supportive office environment. The episode also highlights Riverside’s future growth and Tower Agency’s commitment to building strong client relationships and deeper community engagement.

Brent Lee is a Southern California–based real estate broker, entrepreneur, and community leader. As owner and broker of Tower Real Estate Agency, he has built one of Riverside’s most respected independent brokerages, known for its agent-focused culture, high-performing team, and data-driven results for buyers, sellers, and investors. Beyond real estate, Brent serves as President of the Riverside Unified School District Board of Education, where he has championed initiatives to improve academic outcomes, expand career and technical education, and build stronger school–community partnerships. He is also co-founder of The Pick Group of Young Professionals, a leadership network fostering civic engagement and collaboration among Riverside’s emerging leaders. Through his work in real estate, education, and community development, Brent is dedicated to building a stronger, more connected Riverside for future generations.

In this episode:

• Market trends shaping buyer and seller behavior
• How interest rates influence deals and creative financing strategies
• Local insights on Riverside’s real estate market
• The role of mentorship in shaping Tower Agency’s culture
• Balancing business success with community and family commitments
• Brent’s reflections on personal and professional milestones
• Practical advice for both real estate agents and clients

The Norris Group originates and services loans in California and Florida under California DRE License 01219911, Florida Mortgage Lender License 1577, and NMLS License 1623669.  For more information on hard money lending, go www.thenorrisgroup.com and click the Hard Money tab.


Video Link

Radio Show

In this first episode, we sit down with Brent Lee, broker and owner of Tower Agency, to discuss his journey in real estate, the rebranding of his firm, and its impact on Riverside’s market. Brent shares how mentorship shaped his perspective on community and leadership, the culture he’s building at Tower, and the lessons he’s learned about navigating uncertainty in today’s market. He also highlights growth opportunities in Riverside and the Inland Empire while emphasizing the importance of giving back through community involvement and public education. 

Brent Lee is a Southern California–based real estate broker, entrepreneur, and community leader. As owner and broker of Tower Real Estate Agency, he has built one of Riverside’s most respected independent brokerages, known for its agent-focused culture, high-performing team, and data-driven results for buyers, sellers, and investors. Beyond real estate, Brent serves as President of the Riverside Unified School District Board of Education, where he has championed initiatives to improve academic outcomes, expand career and technical education, and build stronger school–community partnerships. He is also co-founder of The Pick Group of Young Professionals, a leadership network fostering civic engagement and collaboration among Riverside’s emerging leaders. Through his work in real estate, education, and community development, Brent is dedicated to building a stronger, more connected Riverside for future generations.

In this episode:

• Joey Romero introduces Brent Lee, Southern California-based real estate broker, entrepreneur, and owner of Tower Agency.
• Rebranding to Tower Agency: Why the new name matters and what it means for Riverside’s real estate market.
• Mentorship under Bob Stockton, who reshaped Brent’s perspective on community, family, and self.
• Culture at Tower Agency: Building an agent-focused brokerage centered on service, growth, and collaboration.
• Market Insights: How uncertainty influences buyer behavior and why some hesitate to make big decisions.
• Riverside & Inland Empire Opportunities: Brent highlights areas with strong potential for growth and development.
• Community Engagement: Lessons learned from leaders like Aaron on prioritizing impact and giving back through public education and service.

The Norris Group originates and services loans in California and Florida under California DRE License 01219911, Florida Mortgage Lender License 1577, and NMLS License 1623669.  For more information on hard money lending, go www.thenorrisgroup.com and click the Hard Money tab.


Video Link

Radio Show

I SURVIVED REAL ESTATE 2025

Industry insiders focus on what's ahead for 2025-2026

The Norris Group Presents: The 18th Annual I Survived Real Estate – LIVE at the Nixon Presidential Library

We’re back! The Norris Group’s award-winning black-tie gala, I Survived Real Estate, returns for its 18th year—LIVE from the Nixon Presidential Library. Since 2008, this event has raised over $1 million for Make-A-Wish, and we’re not slowing down.

This year’s backdrop?

 A California housing market still starved for inventory, mortgage rates hovering above comfort zones, affordability hitting generational lows, inflation and tariffs. Add in global uncertainty, sticky inflation, and the ever-watchful eye of the Federal Reserve—and you’ve got a landscape full of questions.

• Inventory Drought: California’s housing supply remains critically low
• Rate Pressure: Mortgage rates linger well above buyer comfort zones
• Priced Out: Affordability has collapsed to generational lows
• Global Tensions: War, tariffs, and instability rattle investor confidence
• Inflation’s Grip: Costs remain stubbornly high, squeezing margins
• Tariff Troubles: Rising import costs could ripple through construction and development
• All Eyes on the Fed: Every rate hint could send shockwaves through the market

As always, our expert panel will feature some of the brightest minds in economics, investing, and housing, ready to tackle challenges we didn’t even know we’d have to face—and to help us all prepare for what’s next.

Leading up to the event, The Norris Group Podcast will spotlight both local and national voices shaping the market. If you’re a real estate investor, 2025 is not the year to sit back and watch—it’s a year to be engaged, informed, and ready.

I Survived Real Estate was born out of a crisis. Our mission remains: to unite thought leaders, serve a meaningful cause, and prepare our industry to navigate whatever comes next.

 GET TICKETS HERE: I Survived Real Estate 2025

In this episode:

• Bruce Norris addresses the misleading narratives shaping the real estate market and the role of social media in fueling uncertainty.
• Craig Evans and Bruce discuss how market confusion impacts investors and why clarity is crucial in today’s environment.
• Joey Romero raises the biggest questions on investors’ minds, with Craig stressing the need for reliable data and informed strategies.
• A look ahead to the Investor Panel, where personal stories and experiences provide valuable lessons for today’s market.
• Craig and Bruce explains why mortgage professionals and realtors can gain a strategic edge by attending and applying insights from seasoned investors.

The Norris Group originates and services loans in California and Florida under California DRE License 01219911, Florida Mortgage Lender License 1577, and NMLS License 1623669.  For more information on hard money lending, go www.thenorrisgroup.com and click the Hard Money tab.


Video Link

Radio Show

I SURVIVED REAL ESTATE 2025

Industry insiders focus on what's ahead for 2025-2026

The Norris Group Presents: The 18th Annual I Survived Real Estate – LIVE at the Nixon Presidential Library

We’re back! The Norris Group’s award-winning black-tie gala, I Survived Real Estate, returns for its 18th year—LIVE from the Nixon Presidential Library. Since 2008, this event has raised over $1 million for Make-A-Wish, and we’re not slowing down.

This year’s backdrop?

 A California housing market still starved for inventory, mortgage rates hovering above comfort zones, affordability hitting generational lows, inflation and tariffs. Add in global uncertainty, sticky inflation, and the ever-watchful eye of the Federal Reserve—and you’ve got a landscape full of questions.

• Inventory Drought: California’s housing supply remains critically low
• Rate Pressure: Mortgage rates linger well above buyer comfort zones
• Priced Out: Affordability has collapsed to generational lows
• Global Tensions: War, tariffs, and instability rattle investor confidence
• Inflation’s Grip: Costs remain stubbornly high, squeezing margins
• Tariff Troubles: Rising import costs could ripple through construction and development
• All Eyes on the Fed: Every rate hint could send shockwaves through the market

As always, our expert panel will feature some of the brightest minds in economics, investing, and housing, ready to tackle challenges we didn’t even know we’d have to face—and to help us all prepare for what’s next.

Leading up to the event, The Norris Group Podcast will spotlight both local and national voices shaping the market. If you’re a real estate investor, 2025 is not the year to sit back and watch—it’s a year to be engaged, informed, and ready.

I Survived Real Estate was born out of a crisis. Our mission remains: to unite thought leaders, serve a meaningful cause, and prepare our industry to navigate whatever comes next.

 GET TICKETS HERE: I Survived Real Estate 2025

In this episode:

• Bruce Norris shares how I Survived Real Estate began as Aaron’s vision to bring top industry leaders together for a nonprofit cause.
• The evolution and lasting significance of the event over the years.
• Panelists’ favorite moments and notable changes to the event format.
• The impact of the Rohny Award on the real estate community and future plans for its growth.
• Closing reflections on the power of community support and the positive influence of I Survived Real Estate.

The Norris Group originates and services loans in California and Florida under California DRE License 01219911, Florida Mortgage Lender License 1577, and NMLS License 1623669.  For more information on hard money lending, go www.thenorrisgroup.com and click the Hard Money tab.


Video Link

Radio Show

In Part 2 of our conversation wtih Sean Graham, Founder of Maven Cost Segregation Tax Advisors, we dive deeper into powerful tax strategies, focusing on cost segregation and accelerated depreciation. Sean explains the Look Back Strategy and how it can help amend past tax returns, shares insights on renovations and CAPEX opportunities, and outlines how cost segregation applies to new construction. We also discuss the importance of working with trusted professionals and reveal the biggest red flags to watch for in tax advice. 

Sean is an entrepreneur, investor, and registered CPA with a background in public accounting and private equity. He manages a portfolio of residential rentals and invests in self-storage developments. Sean is also the founder of Maven Cost Segregation Tax Advisors, a national leader in cost segregation services for commercial real estate. His expertise in real estate taxation helps investors accelerate depreciation and maximize after-tax returns.

In this episode:

• Cost Segregation & Depreciation Strategies: How investors can accelerate depreciation to maximize after-tax returns.
• Look Back Strategy: Understanding how this approach works and its impact when amending prior tax returns.
• Identifying value-add improvements that can boost property performance and tax benefits.
• Cost Segregation in New Construction
• Why experienced tax and cost segregation experts are essential for accuracy and compliance.
• Biggest Red Flags in Tax Advice : Common pitfalls to watch for when receiving tax guidance.

The Norris Group originates and services loans in California and Florida under California DRE License 01219911, Florida Mortgage Lender License 1577, and NMLS License 1623669.  For more information on hard money lending, go www.thenorrisgroup.com and click the Hard Money tab.


Video Link

Radio Show