The Paper Trail

Seriously underwater mortgages are rising, and that’s the big takeaway from this episode of the Paper Trail podcast! The crew dives into the fresh data from Adam's Q1 2025 Home Equity report, revealing that now 4% of U.S. mortgages are in deep water, meaning folks owe way more than their homes are worth. They chat about how this trend could lead to more foreclosures and what savvy investors can do to prep for the upcoming wave of opportunities—or challenges, depending on how you roll with it. With plenty of properties still equity-rich, they emphasize the growing divide in the market, and how building the right team now can set investors up for success later. So, kick back and get ready for some solid insights on navigating this shifting landscape!

Chris dives into the nitty-gritty of how note investing has transformed over the last decade, highlighting that while the landscape has shifted from a treasure trove of low-balance, distressed loans to a more competitive and cash-heavy game, the opportunities are still very much alive. He breaks down the five foundational steps for newbies looking to jump into the note investing scene, even if they don’t have deep pockets. From smart partnerships to exploring partials and land notes, he’s got your back with creative strategies to get started without needing a mountain of cash. So whether you’re just kicking the tires or ready to roll, Chris serves up some solid advice on navigating today’s market with a wink and a smile. Tune in and get ready to learn how to make your first deal happen!

Get ready for a wild ride with the Papertrail podcast, where they spill the tea on the crazy world of mortgage note investing! This episode kicks off with a jaw-dropping story about a Las Vegas asset that was more than just a bad loan—it involved a borrower behind bars, chickens running amok in the house, and one of their biggest turnarounds ever! They dive into the nitty-gritty of turning a non-performing loan into a success, all while dealing with teenage squatters and a property that had seen better days. With a blend of humor and real talk, they explore the wild ups and downs of the investment game, proving that sometimes the messiest situations lead to the greatest rewards. So grab your snacks and get cozy, because this episode is packed with laughs, lessons, and a whole lot of unexpected twists!

The Papertrail podcast takes listeners on a wild ride through the ups and downs of mortgage note investing, spotlighting a particularly zany case involving a luxury home just outside Las Vegas. Chris Sevigny recounts the rollercoaster of acquiring a non-performing loan secured by a million-dollar property. Things go south when the borrower ends up in prison for running unlicensed restaurants, leaving a teenage squatter in charge of the house, which is now home to chickens – yes, chickens! This episode is a tale of unexpected twists, showcasing the challenges and hilarity that come with investing in distressed properties. Chris shares how they navigated the foreclosure process while working with the squatter, ultimately leading to a heartwarming resolution where the young girl managed to clean up the place before moving out. It’s a perfect blend of real estate education and laugh-out-loud storytelling, reminding us that sometimes, investing can lead to the most bizarre yet rewarding experiences.

Chris dives into the nitty-gritty of the acquisition process, explaining how they spotted this hidden gem on a single asset tape – a glorified spreadsheet of loans. With a rough idea of the property's value and a decent mortgage payoff, they thought they were in for a sweet deal. But as things unfolded, it became a tangled mess of bad luck and wild surprises. From the borrower’s unexpected prison term to the discovery of a teenage girl living alone in a big house, this episode is a testament to the unpredictability of mortgage note investing. The hosts keep the tone light-hearted while unpacking serious issues like tenant rights and property management, reminding listeners that every deal has its unique set of challenges and surprises waiting just around the corner.

After taking back the property, Chris and his team decided to renovate rather than sell it as-is, leading to a remarkable turnaround. With a strategic plan that focused on what potential buyers actually wanted – modern kitchens and updated bathrooms – the investment of $150,000 in renovations ultimately paid off big time. The property sold for nearly $2 million, breaking neighborhood records and proving that with the right approach and a little bit of faith in the process, even the messiest notes can yield the biggest rewards. This episode not only serves as a case study in savvy investing but also as an engaging story filled with unexpected characters and hilarious anecdotes. For anyone curious about the world of note investing, this episode is a must-listen, jam-packed with lessons, laughs, and inspiring success.

Today’s chat dives into the wild world of real estate deals, particularly the ones you dodge like a dodgeball champ! The main takeaway? Sometimes, the best deal is the one you don’t touch with a ten-foot pole. Our host spills the tea on a promising construction loan that turned out to be a total mess – think lawsuit drama that’d make a soap opera blush! They break down how due diligence saved their bacon, revealing red flags that screamed, “Walk away, buddy!” With some hilarious analogies and a sprinkle of wisdom, they emphasize the importance of knowing when to cut your losses and keep your sanity intact. So, grab a snack, kick back, and tune in for some real estate wisdom that’ll make you think twice before signing on the dotted line!

Diving headfirst into the wild world of real estate investing, the crew kicks things off with a bang, chatting about the often-overlooked art of dodging disaster—like, you know, walking away from a deal that has more red flags than a bullfighting arena! Our main man breaks it down with a cheeky grin, reminding everyone that sometimes the best deals are the ones you don’t make. He shares a juicy tale of a seemingly flashy construction loan that turned out to be a hot mess of lawsuits and liens, making it sound like a family road trip gone wrong—think tantrums, tears, and the whole shebang! Turns out, a little due diligence can save a whole lot of dough, and our savvy investor knows this all too well as he recounts how digging a bit deeper into the paperwork revealed some serious skeletons in the closet.

As they peel back the layers of this deal, listeners are treated to a treasure trove of insider info about what to watch for when evaluating a property. Our speaker highlights that not all that glitters is gold; the construction was only half-done, and the HOA was already throwing legal punches! Like a friendly warning from someone who’s been through the ringer, he shares that while it might seem tempting to rescue a sinking ship, sometimes it’s better to hop on a lifeboat and sail away to calmer waters.

Wrapping things up with a high-five-worthy recap of the key takeaways, our host emphasizes the importance of knowing when to say ‘no thanks’ to a deal that smells fishy. Whether it’s a lawsuit lurking in the shadows or a builder who’s not playing by the rules, understanding the risks can save you from a world of hurt later on. So, grab your popcorn and tune in to hear all the laughs, lessons, and a few cringe-worthy moments from the trenches of real estate investing!

Today’s chat on the Papertrail podcast dives into the nitty-gritty of capital raising strategies, helping listeners figure out which method is the best fit for their unique deals. They kick things off with a rundown of the four main options: Regulation D506B, D506C, Regulation A+, and Regulation CF, breaking them down like a pro chef slices veggies for a stir-fry. Each option comes with its own pros and cons, folks—like choosing between a cozy blanket or a sleek comforter, it all depends on what you need for your specific situation.

For instance, if you're looking to keep things low-key and have a tight-knit network, the 506B is your best bud. But if you want to blast your message far and wide and don’t mind the extra hoops to jump through, then D506C might just be your jam. They make sure to highlight that while it’s tempting to go for the biggest, flashiest option, sometimes the simpler paths can save you heaps of cash and hassle. So, whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned pro, there’s something in this episode to help you navigate the wild world of capital raising with style and confidence.

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Diving into the world of capital raising, the Papertrail podcast kicks things off with a bang, breaking down the nitty-gritty of different investment strategies. Our host, full of energy and charm, doesn’t just skim the surface; they dig deep into the four main capital raising options that can make or break your investment game. From the no-nonsense Regulation D506B, which keeps things exclusive and private, to the loud and proud Regulation D506C that’s like throwing a party with a guest list of accredited investors only, the discussion is lively and packed with insights.

But wait, there’s more! Regulation A+ comes into play, giving everyone from seasoned investors to newbies a shot at getting in on the action, albeit with a few more hoops to jump through. And then there’s Regulation CF – the crowd-funding hero, perfect for those local startups and tech projects looking to raise smaller amounts. With humor and relatable anecdotes, our host makes the complexities of SEC regulations feel like a casual chat over coffee. They emphasize that understanding these options is not just about raising money but about aligning your strategy with your business goals, ensuring that listeners leave with actionable takeaways that can save them a ton of headaches down the line.

Today’s chat spills the beans on the wild world of mortgage note investing and why it’s a game-changer, especially with the stock market’s rollercoaster vibes. He digs into the nitty-gritty of how investing in mortgage notes lets you act like the bank, collecting those sweet monthly payments without the hassle of dealing with tenants or leaky roofs – talk about a win-win! She emphasizes that this type of investing isn’t tied to the stock market chaos, which means while 401ks might be taking a nosedive, your note portfolio can stay chill and steady. They also bust some myths about mortgage notes, letting everyone know that you don’t need to be a real estate whiz or have a fat wallet to get in the game. With stories, laughs, and plenty of insights, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to diversify their investments and escape the Wall Street madness.

• 7eInvestments.com

Nathan Turner of Earnest Investing spills the beans on how note investing isn’t just about crunching numbers—it’s all about those real connections! They dive into Nathan’s winding road into the note world, where he went from being a struggling landlord to a note investor who’s shaking hands and making deals. This chat highlights the importance of in-person events, like the upcoming Diversified Mortgage Expo, where networking can turn into gold. Nathan shares gems from his years in the biz, including how diversification is not just smart but super creative these days. So whether they’re seasoned pros or just dipping their toes into the note investing pool, listeners are in for a treat full of stories and strategies that’ll totally boost their game!

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Chris and Nathan Turner dive into the vibrant world of note investing, revealing how Nathan's journey started unexpectedly while dabbling in fix-and-flip real estate. As luck would have it, after getting stuck with a property he couldn't sell, he decided to rent it out, only to discover that being a landlord was less glamorous than HGTV made it seem. With a sprinkle of humor, Nathan recounts how he and his partner stumbled into note investing, believing they were inventing seller financing while actually stepping into an already established niche. They emphasize the power of community in note investing, sharing stories about the relationships formed at conferences like the Diversified Mortgage Expo (DME), which Nathan now heads. These gatherings aren't just about deals; they're about learning, sharing knowledge, and building partnerships that can last a lifetime.

The episode also highlights the importance of diversification in the note space, as Nathan discusses different niches within note investing that can offer unique opportunities. With a light-hearted touch, they explore how the DME is evolving, focusing on themes that open investors' eyes to various avenues to enhance their portfolios. And let's not forget the fun element; the duo chats about an ax-throwing competition set to kick off the DME, adding an exciting twist to networking before diving into serious investment strategies. It’s a reminder that in the world of finance, having a good laugh and throwing axes can lead to building solid relationships.

Whether you're an experienced investor or just dipping your toes in the note space, Nathan's insights and the community vibe at DME provide invaluable guidance on how to navigate this unique market. The episode wraps up with Nathan encouraging everyone to connect, collaborate, and maybe even throw an ax or two, because in the end, it’s all about those essential connections that can transform a career.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Earnest Investing
• Diversified Mortgage Expo

Every investor has questions—whether it’s about non-performing notes, seller financing, foreclosure risks, or choosing the right markets. In this Q&A episode, we tackle five key questions from real investors on everything from force-placed insurance to the best (and worst) states to invest in. We break down strategies for managing distressed assets, securing your investments, and navigating complex real estate deals. If you’ve ever wondered how to mitigate risk, maximize returns, or handle tricky situations in note investing, this episode delivers practical insights you can apply right now.

Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://7einvestments.com/podcast

Chris Sevney dives into the nitty-gritty of real estate investing with a lively Q&A session that’s bursting with insights! He tackles the importance of forced-placed insurance like it’s the hot topic of the day—because let’s face it, no one wants to get burned (pun intended) when their property goes up in flames! From answering questions about non-performing notes to shedding light on tricky borrower situations, he’s got a toolbox full of wisdom that’s perfect for anyone dealing with paper. Plus, he dishes out some state-by-state advice that’s as colorful as a box of crayons—Ohio, he warns, may not be the land of milk and honey, while Alabama's got some sweet investment prospects! So, grab your favorite snack, kick back, and join Chris as he spins tales and shares strategies for navigating the wild world of real estate with a smile.

Every investor has questions—whether it’s about non-performing notes, seller financing, foreclosure risks, or choosing the right markets. In this Q&A episode, we tackle five key questions from real investors on everything from force-placed insurance to the best (and worst) states to invest in. We break down strategies for managing distressed assets, securing your investments, and navigating complex real estate deals. If you’ve ever wondered how to mitigate risk, maximize returns, or handle tricky situations in note investing, this episode delivers practical insights you can apply right now.

Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://7einvestments.com/podcast

Entrepreneurship isn’t just about big wins—it’s about the daily grind, the tough calls, and the moments of doubt that no one talks about. In this episode, Chris Seveney takes you inside a day in the life of a business owner. From early-morning strategy sessions and endless decision-making to managing setbacks and celebrating small victories, he breaks down what it really takes to run a business. You’ll learn about the unexpected challenges, the importance of adaptability, and why resilience, networking, and time management are every entrepreneur’s greatest tools. If you’ve ever wondered what being a founder is really like, this episode gives you an inside look—no filters, no fluff, just the raw reality of building something from the ground up.