Uncontested Investing

In this episode of Uncontested Investing, we dive into a niche strategy that's been gaining traction across real estate portfolios: mixed-use properties. We're talking about storefronts with apartments above, office-residential hybrids, live-work lofts, and beyond, and why these hybrid properties can unlock multiple income streams, increased flexibility, and long-term cash flow.

We break down the biggest advantages (and challenges), walk through real-life examples, and share creative strategies to make these properties a cornerstone of your portfolio without getting overwhelmed.

Whether you're managing retail below or tenants upstairs, this is your guide to turning a single investment into a multi-dimensional asset.

Key Talking Points of the Episode

00:00 Introduction

01:17 Zoning tip: Get clarity before you commit

02:03 Brownstones with retail, offices & residential 04:09 Commercial vs. residential cycles: hedging against vacancy

05:43 The importance of marketing mixed-use vacancies differently

07:02 Commercial lease benefits: triple net leases & reduced landlord burden

09:01 How upgraded designs will attract better tenants

10:04 The value of parking, walkability, and public transport 12:05 Financing mixed-use properties

13:48 Opportunity zones & tax incentives for mixed-use redevelopments 15:03 Educating yourself before getting into mixed-use investing

Quotables

"With mixed-use, you're never relying on just one tenant stream—your property works harder for you."

"That commercial-residential balance lets you hedge against economic shifts in either sector."

"Triple net leases reduce your landlord headaches while keeping cash flowing."

Links

RCN Capital

https://www.rcncapital.com/podcast

https://www.instagram.com/rcn_capital/

[email protected]

REI INK

https://rei-ink.com/

In this episode of Uncontested Investing,we dive into the booming world of short-term rentals (STRs) and explore how savvy investors are leveraging platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo to maximize cash flow, diversify geographically, and reduce risk.

From vacation properties to workforce housing, the hosts break down how investors of all sizes can scale intelligently by choosing the right locations, designing a memorable guest experience, and taking advantage of seasonal markets.

Whether you're new to STRs or looking to grow your portfolio, this episode is full of practical advice and fresh ideas to expand your impact in the rental space.

Key Talking Points of the Episode

00:00 Introduction

01:05 How STRs can earn 2–3x the monthly income vs. long-term rentals 02:07 Avoiding competitive metro markets through location flexibility

03:25 Underrated markets: Wyoming, Buffalo, Acadia, and snowmobile trails 05:21 Lower maintenance burden for STRs vs. traditional property managers

07:22 Guest experience: why it matters and how to differentiate your STR

08:23 Becoming a Superhost: reputation, reviews, and responsiveness

09:45 What is PadSplit?

10:38 Targeting the workforce for your STRs

12:31 The value of guest feedback: guestbooks, quick fixes, seasonal upgrades

14:00 How smart home tech can help improve your STR

16:14 How shorter tenancies reduce strain and increase adaptability

Quotables

"With a short-term rental, you can actually generate two to three times more income than a long-term lease."

"You decide your level of involvement—from doing it yourself to having a full-service team handle it all."

"Diversification isn't just about property type. It's about location, lease length, and tenant type."

Links

RCN Capital

https://www.rcncapital.com/podcast

https://www.instagram.com/rcn_capital/

[email protected]

REI INK

https://rei-ink.com/

In this episode, Suzanne and I sit down with Richard Ross, CEO of Quinn Residences, a leader in the Build-to-Rent (BTR) space. Richard shares his journey from accountant to real estate executive, his lessons on picking the right property types and niches, and his approach to long-term scaling without chasing fads.

We dive into Quinn's incredible growth to over 5,200 homes across 34 communities, how they've crafted a resident-first experience, and why patience, focus, and relationships are everything in today's real estate market.

Whether you're just starting out or scaling your portfolio, this conversation is packed with strategy, wisdom, and real-world advice.

Key Talking Points of the Episode

00:00 Introduction

01:15 Who is Richard Ross?

01:44 The mission of Quinn Residences

02:24 Providing a completely maintenance-free lifestyle

03:10 How Quinn Residences scaled to 5,200+ homes and 34 communities 04:06 The research behind market selection: jobs, retail, schools 05:38 What residents care about the most

06:24 Smart tech packages: cameras, leak detection, security features 08:25 How getting fired was a turning point in Richard's life

09:22 Why you should never burn bridges in business

10:02 Why niche focus matters if you want to succeed

11:11 Long-term trends that drive lasting success in real estate 14:07 How Quinn Residences plans to scale from 5,200 to 10,000 homes 15:33 The value of patience to your success

16:35 Why sticking to one property type accelerates growth 17:53 Exploring other niches: ADUs, vacation rentals, senior living

19:14 Hometown Heroes program: offering rent discounts to first responders 20:09 The importance of resident feedback, reviews, and surveys

21:06 Amenities that matter: pet-friendly features and tech access 22:09 The power of networking in trade shows and industry events

Quotables

"We don't follow fads. We follow long-term trends and fundamentals."

"Relationships are everything. You never know where your next opportunity will come from."

"In real estate and life, patience is the secret weapon most people never use."

Links

Quinn Residences

https://live-quinn.com/

RCN Capital

https://www.rcncapital.com/podcast

https://www.instagram.com/rcn_capital/

[email protected]

REI INK

https://rei-ink.com/

In this finale of our Financing & Funding Series, Suzanne and I tackle one of the most powerful tools in real estate investing – private money loans. If you've ever felt like the lender holds all the cards, this episode is for you.

We cover why private money is so attractive, how to find the right lending partners, and most importantly, how to position yourself as a serious borrower that lenders love working with. You'll learn how to build real relationships, prepare your paperwork like a pro, avoid red flags, and unlock a repeatable funding process that fuels long-term growth.

Whether you're closing your first deal or scaling to 100+ units, this episode is loaded with strategy, practical advice, and real talk about how to get better, faster funding with less friction!

Key Talking Points of the Episode

00:00 Introduction

00:44 Why private money is so attractive

02:15 Educated borrowers = better relationships, repeat deals

03:50 Do your homework: documents, checklists, vet your lender

05:04 Building rapport with your loan officer is a game-changer

06:26 Fast-track funding starts before the deal: documentation, LLCs, clarity

08:08 Know the terms: prepayment penalties, interest rate buy-downs

09:23 Green flag: lenders who ask the right questions first

11:22 Track record, credit, and cash flow: how to get preferred rates

12:26 Focus on a few great lenders and don't spread yourself too thin

14:03 Referrals, networking, and relationship ROI

15:14 Why you need an LLC before submitting a deal

16:13 Proactive, prepared, and professional wins every time

Quotables

"You don't need five lenders—you need two great ones who believe in your vision."

"The best deals start before the deal: document checklists, LLCs, and a clear process."

"Private money is about speed and flexibility, but it only works if you do your part."

Links

RCN Capital

https://www.rcncapital.com/podcast

https://www.instagram.com/rcn_capital/

[email protected]

REI INK

https://rei-ink.com/

In this episode of Uncontested Investing, we dive deep into one of the most misunderstood but most powerful tools in the investor toolbox: commercial financing for residential portfolios.

We break down the key differences between traditional and commercial loans, when it makes sense to make the switch, and how commercial lenders can become long-term strategic partners for scaling your real estate business.

Whether you're just starting out or ready to transition from 2–3 properties into a real business, this episode is your roadmap to going pro!

Key Talking Points of the Episode

00:00 Introduction

01:30 Key advantage: easier qualification than traditional loans 03:49 What types of assets qualify for commercial financing

04:35 How commercial lenders act like partners 08:33 Understanding the different kinds of commercial lenders

10:10 Should you set up an LLC for each property? 12:03 What new investors need to know about commercial lending

13:45 Interest rates, cash flow, and why pacing matters 16:01 Advice for new investors: vet your options and talk to mentors

Quotables

"Just because you can get approved doesn't mean you should move that fast."

"A lender who educates you is a lender worth sticking with."

"You don't build a real estate business by staying in the traditional lane forever."

Links

RCN Capital

https://www.rcncapital.com/podcast

https://www.instagram.com/rcn_capital/

[email protected]

REI INK

https://rei-ink.com/

Let's be honest—real estate investing is a team sport and you're not meant to go it alone. In this episode of our Financing & Funding Series, Suzanne and I break down the ins and outs of partnering with other investors—how to do it right, what to watch out for, and why the right partner can 10x your portfolio and fast-track your success.

We talk through the good, the bad, and the ugly—from finding complementary skill sets, setting clear legal boundaries, and protecting your downside, to spotting red flags and knowing when it's time to walk away. Whether you're just getting started or scaling to multifamily, this episode is your full roadmap to making partnerships work without drama or disaster.

Key Talking Points of the Episode

00:00 Introduction

01:09 Leveraging complementary skills & experience

03:17 Multiple partnerships for different strategies

06:25 Equity vs. joint ventures vs. silent partners

08:47 Real estate syndications: Bigger deals, shared risk

11:01 Key values to align on: risk tolerance, time, renovation standards

12:35 Trust-building & bonding outside the business

14:00 Test communication before committing

15:06 The non-negotiable: Legal agreements

16:21 Schedule recurring partner check-ins

18:34 Don't argue about everything: Learn to concede

20:03 The importance of transparency in every partnership

Quotables

"Partnering with investors isn't just about capital – it's about alignment, vision, and building something better together."

"A partnership without transparency is a liability, not an asset."

"No one wants to have the tough conversations, but those legal docs protect everyone—and they build trust."

Links

RCN Capital

https://www.rcncapital.com/podcast

https://www.instagram.com/rcn_capital/

[email protected]

REI INK

https://rei-ink.com/

Creative financing isn't just a buzzword—it's one of the most powerful ways investors can scale smarter and faster. In this episode, Suzanne and I dive into a full breakdown of alternative funding strategies that help you grow without the traditional barriers.

We explore equitable partnerships, private lending, crowdfunding, DSCR loans, BRRRR strategies, seller financing, and even using your IRA to fund deals. Whether you're just starting out or looking to grow with flexibility, this conversation is packed with real-world insights, practical tips, and the exact steps you need to make creative financing work for you.

Key Talking Points of the Episode

00:00 Introduction

01:58 The pros and cons of crowdfunding

03:11 How private money can help fund less traditional assets

04:19 What to know about using your IRA to fund deals

05:34 Networking and building relationships with lenders

07:03 Where to network: REIAs, National Rental Home Council, and more

08:08 Local networking vs national events

09:16 Marketing as a creative financing tool

11:26 DSCR as a metric for smarter investing and better underwriting

13:56 Transitioning from fix & flip to BRRRR for long-term portfolio building

17:27 The common pitfalls of creative financing

19:17 Why real estate education pays off long-term

20:22 Avoid overleveraging: Plan for vacancy, maintenance, and contingencies

Quotables

"Creative financing lets you scale when others are stuck waiting for a traditional lender to say yes."

"Your local REIA may have more value than a weekend in Vegas at a trade show."

"Overleveraging is easy when deals come fast. Be smart and plan for the what-ifs."

Links

RCN Capital

https://www.rcncapital.com/podcast

https://www.instagram.com/rcn_capital/

[email protected]

REI INK

https://rei-ink.com/

Welcome back to Uncontested Investing! In this episode, we sit down with the powerhouse Tami Bonnell, Co-Chair of EXIT Realty, whose journey from cleaning homes at age 11 to leading one of the most impactful real estate organizations in North America is nothing short of inspiring.

Tami shares her story of grit, purpose, and people-first leadership—covering everything from her first sale at 13 to mentoring investors and agents through market cycles, building generational wealth, and finding alignment in life and business. We also dive into EXIT's innovative residual income model, creative financing solutions for investors, and how martial arts helped shape her mindset.

Whether you're a seasoned investor, real estate agent, or aspiring entrepreneur, this episode is packed with powerful insight and value-driven strategy.

Key Talking Points of the Episode

00:00 Introduction

01:00 How Tami got into real estate at 13 years old

03:10 Following up, showing up, and taking initiative

05:26 The power of goal setting and building an action plan

07:27 Why your brand must reflect your mission and values

09:59 Focusing on helping others see who they can become

11:18 The impact of Taekwondo on Tami's success

13:46 Why it's important to have an outlet outside of real estate

16:28 Deal Breaker/Deal Maker: The moment that shaped Tami's leadership

20:26 Navigating today's market by leveraging private funding

21:25 Understanding Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR)

23:01 "What's the Word?": Alignment and value

25:43 EXIT's residual income model: Retirement, legacy, and reinvestment

28:24 Fix & flip vs. BRRRR strategy: What EXIT agents are choosing

31:51 Retirement planning with real estate and residuals

Quotables

"You don't need a perfect business plan—you need an action plan."

"If you're not growing in all areas of your life, you're not really growing."

"Exposure to success stories helps eliminate limiting beliefs and creates possibility."

Links

EXIT Realty

https://exitrealty.com/

RCN Capital

https://www.rcncapital.com/podcast

https://www.instagram.com/rcn_capital/

[email protected]

REI INK

https://rei-ink.com/

Welcome back to Uncontested Investing! In this final episode of our Foundational Series, we're diving into real estate financing—the key to scaling your investment portfolio successfully. If you think bank loans are your only option, think again!

In this episode, we break down the best funding options for real estate investors, including private lending, leveraging your portfolio, DSCR loans, and more. We also bust the biggest myths around hard money vs. private lending and share strategies to build strong financial partnerships that will keep your deals flowing.

Whether you're new to investing or looking for smarter ways to finance your next project, this episode is packed with insider knowledge to help you succeed!

Key Talking Points of the Episode

00:00 Introduction

01:00 The rise of private lending & how it has evolved

03:20 Hard money vs. private money: Breaking the stigma

04:24 Building strong relationships with private lenders

05:49 Leveraging your current portfolio for funding

08:30 Why private lending is faster & more efficient than traditional banks

10:05 The role of financial advisors in real estate investing

11:45 Finding funding at local REIAs (Real Estate Investor Associations)

13:17 Mixing private lending, bank loans, and IRA funds

15:24 How DSCR loans work & why they're a game-changer

17:44 Why private lenders care about your long-term success

Quotables

"Private lending isn't like the old days of hard money. It's evolved into a regulated, investor-friendly industry where lenders actually want you to succeed."

"Your current portfolio is more powerful than you think—cash-out refinancing can fund your next deal without needing new capital."

"The smartest investors don't rely on just one funding source. They mix private lending, bank loans, and even retirement funds to build a scalable portfolio."

Links

RCN Capital

https://www.rcncapital.com/podcast

https://www.instagram.com/rcn_capital/

[email protected]

REI INK

https://rei-ink.com/

Expanding into a new real estate market can be a game-changer or a costly mistake—it all comes down to having the right strategy. In this episode of Uncontested Investing, we break down how to pick the right market, build a strong local team, and avoid common pitfalls when scaling your portfolio.

We're talking competition levels, short-term rentals, student housing, and the key data tools that give you an edge. Plus, we'll cover why emotional investing is dangerous and how to stay disciplined with your buy box.

If you're looking to grow your investments the right way, this episode is packed with real-world insights to help you expand with confidence.

Key Talking Points of the Episode

00:00 Introduction

01:16 Understanding competition and pace through market research

03:22 Preparing for seasonal vacancies and rental gaps

05:11 How to analyze new market opportunities

06:21 Why realtors, contractors, and property managers are key

10:01 Should you be following major REITs?

15:05 Asking help from experts in the market

Quotables

"Before jumping into a new market, build a strong team—local realtors, contractors, and property managers make all the difference."

"Avoid emotional investing. Stick to your buy box and don't let competition push you beyond your limits."

"Find the overlooked opportunities—while big investors chase major cities, smaller markets often offer better margins."

Links

RCN Capital

https://www.rcncapital.com/podcast

https://www.instagram.com/rcn_capital/

[email protected]

REI INK

https://rei-ink.com/