The Norris Group Real Estate Radio Show and Podcast

This week, The Norris Group Real Estate Podcast is introducing a new segment featuring owners and leaders from investor clubs, REIAs, and Meetups. They will share insights on current real estate trends, effective strategies in their markets, and updates on upcoming speakers and events.

Our goal is to foster collaboration, exchange best practices, and provide valuable insights into the real estate investment world.

This week’s guests include Christina Suter from Pasadena FIBI, Mitch Craighead from NorCal REIA, and Rich Rice from the FIRE Center.

For more information on this month’s featured clubs and speakers, please see below:

FIBI Pasadena

The FIRE Center

NorCal REIA

In this episode:

• Impact of Market Turmoil on Real Estate: How economic fluctuations are shaping today’s real estate market.
• Economic Uncertainty and Its Effect on Investors: Understanding risks and opportunities in an unpredictable economy.
• Expert insights on getting started and navigating market challenges.
• Key Indicators to Watch: Critical trends and data points that signal market shifts.
• Real Estate Outlook for 2025: Predictions on market conditions, interest rates, and investment opportunities.
• Investor Club Information & Contacts: How to connect with top real estate clubs, REIAs, and Meetups.

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

This week, The Norris Group Real Estate Podcast is introducing a new segment featuring owners and leaders from investor clubs, REIAs, and Meetups. They will share insights on current real estate trends, effective strategies in their markets, and updates on upcoming speakers and events.

Our goal is to foster collaboration, exchange best practices, and provide valuable insights into the real estate investment world.

This week’s guests include Christina Suter from Pasadena FIBI, Mitch Craighead from NorCal REIA, and Rich Rice from the FIRE Center.

For more information on this month’s featured clubs and speakers, please see below:

FIBI Pasadena

The FIRE Center

NorCal REIA

In this episode:

• Introduction to the Investor's Club Podcast: Highlighting local real estate clubs, industry strategies, and insights from experienced investors.
• Joey Romero welcomes Christina Suter (Pasadena FIBI), Mitch Craighead (NorCal REIA), and Rich Rice (FIRE Center).
• Investor Demographics: Understanding the backgrounds and profiles of investors attending club meetings.
• Educational Focus: Insights into the topics and strategies clubs prioritize to educate their members.
• Exploring upcoming events and notable guest speakers.
• Dream Speakers: Guests share their ideal speakers and why they would add value to the clubs.

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.


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Radio Show

With over a decade of experience, Army Veteran and West Point graduate Patton Gade is a top expert in military lending. As the National Director of Military Lending at UMortgage and the #1 Scotsman Guide Ranked VA Loan Originator, he’s dedicated to educating veterans and industry professionals on the benefits of VA loans. Patton leads a team of VA experts, working to expand homeownership opportunities for military members while breaking down common misconceptions. Passionate about service, leadership, and education, he’s a trusted advocate for veterans navigating the mortgage process. 

In this episode:

• Understanding VA Loans and Their Key Benefits
• Financial Qualifications and Credit Score Requirements
• How Many VA Loans Can You Have?
• Types of VA Loans Explained
• VA Renovation Loans and the Role of Co-Signers
• LLCs, Trusts, and VA Loans—What’s Allowed?
• Debunking Common VA Loan Misconceptions: Addressing misunderstandings about eligibility, usage, and benefits of VA loans.
• The Flexibility of VA Loans: Insights from Patton Gade on how VA loans can adapt to different financial situations.
• The importance of awareness and understanding of VA loans in the real estate market.

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

With over a decade of experience, Army Veteran and West Point graduate Patton Gade is a top expert in military lending. As the National Director of Military Lending at UMortgage and the #1 Scotsman Guide Ranked VA Loan Originator, he’s dedicated to educating veterans and industry professionals on the benefits of VA loans. Patton leads a team of VA experts, working to expand homeownership opportunities for military members while breaking down common misconceptions. Passionate about service, leadership, and education, he’s a trusted advocate for veterans navigating the mortgage process. 

In this episode:

• Joey Romero introduces Patton Gade, National Director of Military Lending at UMortgage
• From Military to Mortgages: Patton Gade’s journey into VA lending 
• Understanding VA loans, eligibility requirements, and how veterans can maximize their benefits
• Challenges and advantages of VA loans, including the removal of loan limits in 2020
• Common misconceptions about VA loans and why many veterans hesitate to use them
• Tech & Mortgages: The evolving role of technology in the mortgage industry and its impact on VA lending
• Expert Advice for Veterans: Navigating homeownership with VA loans 

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

Kaaren Hall is the founder and CEO of uDirect IRA Services, LLC, a leading provider of self-directed IRA accounts since 2009. With over 20 years of experience in real estate, mortgage lending, and self-directed retirement accounts, she has helped thousands take control of their retirement funds by investing in alternative assets like real estate, private lending, and precious metals. A sought-after speaker, Kaaren has shared her expertise at top industry conferences, including BiggerPockets’ BPCON22, 23 & 24.

In addition to leading uDirect IRA Services, Kaaren founded the Orange County Real Estate Investors Association (OCREIA) in 2012, fostering education and networking among investors. She is also the author of Self-Directed IRA Investing: A BiggerPockets Guide, a comprehensive resource for investors looking to build wealth through self-directed IRAs. Passionate about financial education and advocacy, she serves on the boards of The Council on Aging Southern California and the Retirement Industry Trust Association (RITA), promoting transparency in the retirement industry.

Take control of your future and discover a powerful retirement secret for real estate investors: Self- directed IRAs
Self-Directed IRA Investing: A BiggerPockets Guide with Kaaren Hall. Get it HERE

In this episode:

• How Self-Directed IRAs empower investors beyond traditional retirement accounts.
• Self-Directed IRAs vs. 401(k): Key Differences – What sets them apart and which is best for your financial goals.
• Managing Real Estate in a Self-Directed IRA – Strategies, tax advantages, and potential pitfalls.
• The Legal Framework for Self-Directed IRAs – What assets qualify and how to stay compliant.
• Mistakes Investors Make with Self-Directed IRAs.
• How the SECURE Act 1.0 & 2.0 Affects Retirement Accounts.

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

Kaaren Hall is the founder and CEO of uDirect IRA Services, LLC, a leading provider of self-directed IRA accounts since 2009. With over 20 years of experience in real estate, mortgage lending, and self-directed retirement accounts, she has helped thousands take control of their retirement funds by investing in alternative assets like real estate, private lending, and precious metals. A sought-after speaker, Kaaren has shared her expertise at top industry conferences, including BiggerPockets’ BPCON22, 23 & 24.

In addition to leading uDirect IRA Services, Kaaren founded the Orange County Real Estate Investors Association (OCREIA) in 2012, fostering education and networking among investors. She is also the author of Self-Directed IRA Investing: A BiggerPockets Guide, a comprehensive resource for investors looking to build wealth through self-directed IRAs. Passionate about financial education and advocacy, she serves on the boards of The Council on Aging Southern California and the Retirement Industry Trust Association (RITA), promoting transparency in the retirement industry.

Take control of your future and discover a powerful retirement secret for real estate investors: Self- directed IRAs
Self-Directed IRA Investing: A BiggerPockets Guide with Kaaren Hall. Get it HERE

In this episode:

• Craig welcomes Kaaren Hall, CEO of uDirect IRA Services LLC
•  From radio to real estate, how managing an apartment building led to a thriving career.
• Launching uDirect IRA Services – Kaaren’s path to founding a leading self-directed IRA company.
• Partnering with The Norris Group – Her long-standing collaboration with Bruce and Aaron Norris and their shared impact.
• Aaron Norris’ Influence – how Aaron played a key role in uDirect IRA Services’ success.
• How OCEREIA supports the local community.
• Self-Directed IRAs Explained – Key benefits and how they empower investors.
• Understanding regulations for smarter investing.
• How self-directed IRAs shape long-term wealth strategies.

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.


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Radio Show

Born and raised in Lakewood, California, Craig Hill attended Lakewood High, Long Beach City College, and received his Bachelor of Science degree from California State University, Long Beach. While attending CSULB, he followed his love of baseball by making his profession buying and selling baseball cards.

In 1984, Craig took his first job in the lending industry working for Vanguard Mortgage as a loan officer and loan manager. While employed there, he met and began funding REO purchases with Bruce Norris. When Bruce officially started The Norris Group in 1994, Craig came aboard as both loan officer and investment manager and never looked back. Since that time, they have arranged hundreds of millions worth of investor loans. 

Recently Craig served several years as vice chairman for Exbound, a nonprofit organization designed to help developmentally disabled adults increase their social interaction. Craig enjoys sports and spending time with his wife Laura and daughter Caitlin.

 

In this episode:

• Craig Hill shares key guidelines for evaluating trust deed investments.
• Why multiple sources are crucial for accurate property value assessment
• Understanding the Trust Deed Process
• Essential criteria for trust deed investments in California.
• A look at the company’s history and its approach to changing market conditions.
• Balancing Fair Rates – The importance of offering competitive terms for both borrowers and investors.
• How to apply and get started with trust deed 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

Born and raised in Lakewood, California, Craig Hill attended Lakewood High, Long Beach City College, and received his Bachelor of Science degree from California State University, Long Beach. While attending CSULB, he followed his love of baseball by making his profession buying and selling baseball cards.

In 1984, Craig took his first job in the lending industry working for Vanguard Mortgage as a loan officer and loan manager. While employed there, he met and began funding REO purchases with Bruce Norris. When Bruce officially started The Norris Group in 1994, Craig came aboard as both loan officer and investment manager and never looked back. Since that time, they have arranged hundreds of millions worth of investor loans. 

Recently Craig served several years as vice chairman for Exbound, a nonprofit organization designed to help developmentally disabled adults increase their social interaction. Craig enjoys sports and spending time with his wife Laura and daughter Caitlin.

 

In this episode:

• Craig Evans introduces Craig Hill, his background, and early career in lending.
• Joining The Norris Group : Why Craig Hill left Vanguard Mortgage to partner with Bruce Norris.
• The Changing Landscape of Hard Money Lending: How investor-focused lending has evolved over the years.
• The Norris Group’s Underwriting Process.
• Property Evaluation Strategies: Key factors in assessing profitable investment opportunities.
• Protecting Investors & Ensuring Quality: How The Norris Group prioritizes investor security and deal integrity.
• Craig Hill’s insights on securing funding and making smart investment decisions.
• The importance of underwriting in building trust and long-term success in 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.


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Radio Show

William “Bill” L. Exeter is a highly respected expert in the financial services industry with over 40 years of experience, specializing in real estate tax strategies, including 1031 Exchanges, Self-Directed IRAs, and Title Holding Trusts. As the CEO, Chief Trust Officer, CFO, and Treasurer of The Exeter Group of Companies, Bill oversees operations for Exeter 1031 Exchange Services, LLC, Exeter Trust Company, and Exeter Asset Services Corporation.

A pioneer in the 1031 Exchange industry, Bill has administered over 125,000 transactions and is a founding member of the Federation of Exchange Accommodators. He is a sought-after speaker, educator, and expert witness, sharing his knowledge on investment strategies and alternative assets through seminars, podcasts, and media appearances.

Bill holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from California State University, Los Angeles, and the Certified Securities Operations Professional (CSOP) designation from the Cannon Financial Institute. He is based in San Diego, California.



In this episode:

• Key differences between Reverse Exchange vs. Forward Exchange
• Improvement (Build) Exchange Explained: Deadlines, complexities, and planning essentials.
• The role of Exchange LLCs and fund control in 1031 exchanges.
• Self-Directed IRAs and 1031 Exchanges
• Step-Up in Cost Basis: How it works and its impact on 1031 exchanges.
• Common Mistakes in 1031 Exchanges: Top pitfalls to avoid for successful transactions.

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

William “Bill” L. Exeter is a highly respected expert in the financial services industry with over 40 years of experience, specializing in real estate tax strategies, including 1031 Exchanges, Self-Directed IRAs, and Title Holding Trusts. As the CEO, Chief Trust Officer, CFO, and Treasurer of The Exeter Group of Companies, Bill oversees operations for Exeter 1031 Exchange Services, LLC, Exeter Trust Company, and Exeter Asset Services Corporation.

A pioneer in the 1031 Exchange industry, Bill has administered over 125,000 transactions and is a founding member of the Federation of Exchange Accommodators. He is a sought-after speaker, educator, and expert witness, sharing his knowledge on investment strategies and alternative assets through seminars, podcasts, and media appearances.

Bill holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from California State University, Los Angeles, and the Certified Securities Operations Professional (CSOP) designation from the Cannon Financial Institute. He is based in San Diego, California.



In this episode:

• Meet Bill Exeter: CEO of Exeter 1031 Exchange Services and industry expert.
• 1031 Exchanges Explained: Their history, purpose, and tax-deferral benefits for real estate investors.
• Why choosing a regulated expert is critical.
• Qualified use, intent to hold, and compliance essentials.
•  Importance of consultation and strategic preparation.
• Eligible Property Types: What qualifies for a like-kind exchange, including DSTs.
• Reinvestment Requirements: Meeting deadlines, partial exchanges, and avoiding pitfalls.
•  Steps for identifying replacement properties.

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