Uncontested Investing

In this episode of Uncontested Investing, we are diving deep into the power of direct-to-seller marketing for real estate investors. While many investors chase MLS deals or pay for expensive online ads, some of the most profitable opportunities still come from proven off-market deal sourcing strategies like direct mail, cold calling, door knocking, and text/email campaigns.

We break down how to build targeted seller lists, craft personalized messages that resonate with motivated sellers, and avoid the pitfalls of generic outreach. You'll also learn how to leverage CRMs, automation tools, and even AI to scale your direct-to-seller campaigns while maintaining a personal, authentic touch.

If you're serious about growing your real estate investing business, finding more off-market deals, and connecting with sellers directly, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to help you generate leads, build trust, and close more profitable deals in 2025.

Key Talking Points of the Episode

00:00 Introduction

00:47 Direct mail campaigns: postcards, flyers, frequency, and personalization

01:27 Why it works: cutting out the middleman and meeting sellers where they are

03:01 Marketing to absentee owners, probates, foreclosures, auctions

04:50 Understanding seller pain points and meeting them with empathy, not just a lowball offer

06:16 Leveraging before-and-after photos and even partnerships to build trust

08:02 The four main channels: direct mail, cold calls/voicemails, door knocking, text/email campaigns

09:11 Cold calling tips: scripts, short voicemails, and respectful follow-up

10:49 Door knocking and in-person outreach: when and how to use it carefully

11:50 Text and email campaigns: compliance, opt-outs, and why automation helps scale

14:13 Crafting effective messaging: A/B testing, empathy, and tying to community

16:31 Importance of consistency—tracking results and sticking to follow-up schedules

18:29 Using CRM tools to track outreach, analyze wins, and refine strategy

20:18 Leveraging AI tools like ChatGPT for drafting postcards, scripts, and texts

21:03 Pitfalls: generic messaging, one-channel dependence, and poor follow-up

23:20 Scaling direct-to-seller marketing: when to outsource or bring on a VA

Quotables

"Don't just come at this from the 'I want your house at a discount' vibe. Meet them as people first."

"Generic, impersonal messages get tossed in the trash more often than not."

"Scaling is about systemizing scripts, automation, and knowing when to outsource."

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 continue our series on marketing and deal sourcing—this time focusing on how investors can use social media as a deal-finding and networking tool.

From Facebook groups to LinkedIn connections, from Instagram reels to paid ads, we walk through the strategies that can help investors uncover off-market opportunities, build credibility, and attract both partners and capital. Social media isn't just about posting pretty pictures—it's about being authentic, consistent, and intentional with your content so that sellers, buyers, and other investors see you as a trusted resource.

If you've been hesitant to lean into social media or you're not sure how to make it work for your investing goals, this episode will show you practical ways to turn likes and comments into leads and closings.

Key Talking Points of the Episode

00:00 Introduction

01:00 Using social platforms to source deals and connect with like-minded investors

03:33 Posting your "buy box" to attract sellers and referrals

04:21 Which platforms to prioritize: LinkedIn, Instagram, and where deals get shared

05:55 Targeted ads for motivated sellers and local real estate groups

07:46 Repurposing success stories and market updates into deal-attracting content

09:10 Storytelling through the full lifecycle of a deal—finding, renovating, reselling

11:05 Creating content for two audiences: sellers/buyers AND investors/partners

13:18 Authenticity and even mistakes: why transparency builds trust

14:14 LinkedIn as a credibility hub—high-value connections and partnerships

16:33 Pitfalls to avoid: being too salesy, ignoring engagement, not tracking results

18:12 Handling negative comments—pause, edit, and keep it professional

19:26 Tracking metrics, posting schedules, and experimenting with timing

20:20 Repurposing content across platforms without burning out

21:11 Social media success is not linear—why consistency and patience win

22:28 Collaboration, authenticity, and leveraging social media for deal flow

Quotables

"Not only can you find deals on social media, but you can also find people that can help you find those deals."

"Don't just market properties. Market yourself, your personality, and your community."

"If you're ignoring engagement, you're setting yourself up to fail on social media."

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, Suzanne and I dive into the powerful world of branding for real estate investors. We often see investors hyper-focused on deals, renovations, and returns—but what about their personal brand? Today, we break down why marketing yourself is just as important as marketing your properties.

From defining your niche to social media strategies, storytelling, and building community connections, we explore what it really takes to stand out in today's competitive market. Whether you're new to investing or looking to grow your influence, this episode delivers actionable tips that can transform the way others perceive—and connect—with your business.

Key Talking Points of the Episode

[0:00] - Kicking off with energy and why brand marketing matters

[0:50] - The power of having a brand that people recognize and trust

[1:37] - Defining your niche: fix & flips, rentals, or commercial?

[2:53] - Identifying your target audience and tailoring your message

[3:52] - Importance of consistency and interaction on social platforms

[4:49] - Unique touches in your brand: home warranties, smart tech, etc.

[5:10] - Choosing the right social media platform for your content

[6:13] - Learning from others: follow but don't copy

[7:13] - Educational content vs. lighthearted fun—finding the right mix

[8:25] - Tracking social media performance and adapting your strategy

[9:11] - Networking: In-person still beats digital connections

[10:12] - Offline marketing tactics: placemats, signage, sponsorships

[11:32] - Building a memorable brand and value proposition

[12:18] - Your online presence: websites, bios, and testimonials

[13:06] - Storytelling and relatability as branding superpowers

[13:29] - Dealing with criticism professionally

[14:58] - Collaborating with creators and businesses to expand reach

[17:53] - Bringing personality to your content with creative video ideas

[18:35] - Educational how-to videos for extra value

[19:11] - Analyze content performance to guide future strategy

[21:11] - Don't quit early—consistency and patience are crucial

[22:10] - Set a content schedule and stick to it

[22:28] - Don't just market properties—market yourself

[23:08] - Building brand equity through community engagement

Quotables

"You can't just post—you've got to show up, interact, and stay consistent." "Marketing yourself as a brand can take you to that next level as an investor." "Social media is a tool—networking is the connection." "Find your niche, master it, and build your brand around it." "People connect with what's real—so be real." "You don't need to be perfect, you just need to be present." "The old school handshake and the new school hashtag go hand in hand."

Links & Resources

• RCN Capital

  https://www.rcncapital.com/podcast

  Instagram: @rcn_capital

  Email: [email protected]

• REI INK Magazine

  https://rei-ink.com/

Closing Note

Loved the episode? Be sure to rate, follow, share, and review Uncontested Investing! We appreciate your support and can't wait to see how you grow your brand. Don't forget to tag us in your posts—we're watching, cheering, and here to help. See you next week!

In this episode of Uncontested Investing, we are wrapping up our "Building Your Team" series with two roles that can make or break your real estate journey: attorneys and accountants.

We dive deep into why these professionals are essential, how to vet them, what pitfalls to avoid, and the questions every investor should ask before signing a retainer or engagement letter. From airtight contracts and asset protection to tax strategy, bookkeeping, and long-term financial health, the right legal and accounting team will protect your portfolio and accelerate your path to financial freedom.

Whether you're a new investor closing your first deal or a seasoned pro scaling a portfolio across multiple states, this episode gives you the tools to build a legal and accounting foundation that lasts.

Key Talking Points of the Episode

00:00 Introduction

01:05 What attorneys do: protect assets, ensure contracts, advise on entities

02:28 Why local expertise matters for local ordinances and compliance

03:17 What accountants do: tax strategy, bookkeeping, cash flow analysis

04:09 Entity structuring: LLC vs. corporation & why it matters

05:54 Identifying proactive vs. reactive attorneys

07:12 What to look for in a CPA or accountant

08:45 The importance of strategic CPAs who bring solutions, not just reports

10:26 Vetting attorneys: Important questions to ask attorneys

12:43 Understanding the difference between transactional and litigation attorneys

13:48 Solo attorneys vs. law firms—when to scale up your legal team

14:58 Vetting CPAs: experience with real estate tax law, multi-state expertise

15:56 Accounting systems, dashboards, and red flags to avoid

19:20 Pitfalls: hiring generalists, waiting too late, or overpaying

23:20 Networking for recommendations—REI clubs, trade shows, LinkedIn

24:57 Why hiring pros who invest in real estate themselves is a bonus

26:01 Quarterly check-ins, open communication, and relationship management

Quotables

"Just because you're not trying to do something illegal doesn't mean you're doing it right."

"Transparency is non-negotiable. A good attorney or CPA will give you proactive advice, not just answers when you ask."

"Hiring a family friend who's an injury lawyer to handle your real estate deals is a recipe for disaster."

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 continue our "Building Out Your Team" series by diving into one of the most crucial roles for any investor: the property manager.

We explore why property managers are the boots on the ground and the true extension of the investor, and how hiring the wrong one can derail your portfolio quickly. From maximizing cash flow and tenant retention to protecting your long-term property value, the right property manager can make or break your strategy.

This episode covers the qualities to look for, the red flags to avoid, the questions you need to ask during the interview process, and how to structure a long-term relationship that sets both you and your property manager up for success.

Key Talking Points of the Episode

00:00 Introduction

01:01 The real role of a property manager in your real estate business

02:13 Tenant Relationships: Why personal touches lead to renewals

03:45 Qualities of a good property manager: Transparency, proactivity, responsiveness

05:50 How reputation and local experience will translate into attracting tenants

07:35 Systems and processes: tenant screening, maintenance, rent collection

08:45 Legal knowledge and fluency in local ordinances

10:47 Key interview questions when finding a property manager

12:56 The importance of the relationships built with your tenants

13:26 Handling maintenance requests and emergencies

14:34 Tenant screening: credit, background checks, and criminal history

15:51 Fees, services, and ensuring fairness in contracts

16:56 How references can help you find the right property manager

19:16 Red flags: vague answers, poor communication, no written agreements

21:02 Excessive maintenance markups and lack of online presence

23:31 Vendor relationships, likability, and tenant interactions

26:02 Tips for investors: trial periods, evaluation, local vs. national property managers

29:10 Long-term relationships: clear expectations, bonus incentives, and accountability

33:39 Communication, escalation procedures, and long-term success strategies

Quotables

"The property manager is an extension of you as an investor. They handle what you can't, so you can focus on growth."

"Transparency is non-negotiable. If they're closed off in the first meeting, that's a red flag."

"Don't just hand your property over and forget it. Set expectations, review reports, and stay engaged."

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're diving into one of the most overlooked yet powerful tools in real estate investing: networking with other investors.

While contractors, asset managers, and lenders are crucial, the truth is that some of the most valuable partnerships you'll ever form are with people doing the same thing you are—other investors. We discuss how to find like-minded partners, why authenticity is the foundation of trust, and how joint ventures and syndications can help you scale faster than going solo.

This conversation is packed with insights on building community, accessing off-market deals, leveraging partnerships for efficiency, and the patience required to make networking a long-term strategy for success.

Key Talking Points of the Episode

00:00 Introduction

01:14 The power of organizations like the National REIA for networking

02:15 Why sharing knowledge accelerates your business

04:01 Turning off-market leads into partnerships and deals

05:44 Authenticity in networking: Why being genuine matters

06:11 Social media vs. In-person networking

07:27 Follow-up: turning first meetings into long-term partnerships

08:12 Meeting people with the intention to provide value

10:05 Every investor is a mentor: Building relationships by learning from each other

12:01 Leveraging partnerships for deal flow & efficiency

13:16 Joint ventures & syndications: scaling bigger together

16:04 Building trusted referral networks through partnerships

17:43 Patience in networking: Why building your network is a long game

19:15 Staying consistent, watering the grass, and plucking the weeds

Quotables

"It's not always about who can help me find the next deal, it's about building a community."

"Authenticity is the key. If you're not genuine, that'll show itself pretty quickly."

"When you work with others, you're not making less money—you're securing more properties."

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're breaking down one of the most overlooked roles in a real estate investor's team: the asset manager.

We dig into what exactly an asset manager does, how they're different from a property manager, and why their value stretches far beyond spreadsheets. From analyzing financial health to forecasting long-term strategies, mitigating risks, and taking emotion out of tough investment decisions, an asset manager can be the key to turning your portfolio into a true wealth-building machine.

If you've ever wondered when (or why) you should bring on an asset manager, this episode will give you the clarity and confidence you need.

Key Talking Points of the Episode

00:00 Introduction

00:41 What is an Asset Manager?

01:42 Asset Manager vs Property Manager

03:03 How an Asset Manager will help take emotions out of investment decisions

04:24 Budgeting, forecasting cash flow, and risk management

06:00 Maximizing returns: Lease audits, rent analysis, and market comparisons

09:21 Asset Managers as trusted partners in business

11:50 Building trust and transparency with your asset manager

14:05 Setting expectations, sharing goals, and aligning long-term vision

15:05 How to select the right Asset Manager: Due diligence and interviews

17:55 When is the right time to hire one? Scaling and hitting roadblocks

19:20 The natural cycle: from property management to asset management

20:43 Investing in your portfolio through assistants and asset managers

Quotables

"An asset manager can most comfortably remove emotion out of the transaction."

"They're not just adding money to the bottom line—they're adding value to your entire investing strategy."

"The good ones make more money when their clients make more money. That's true alignment."

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 one of the most important aspects of real estate success: finding the right contractors and building strong, lasting relationships with them. Nate Linsky and Suzanne Andreasen break down practical strategies for networking, vetting, and partnering with reliable contractors, plus how to set expectations, communicate effectively, and use technology to stay on track.

Whether you're new to investing or managing multiple projects, this episode will help you avoid costly mistakes, strengthen your contractor relationships, and create a trusted network that grows with your business.

Key Talking Points of the Episode:

00:00 Introduction

00:52 Why contractors are the foundation of your real estate business

02:46 Finding referrals through REI groups, trade shows, and local networks

05:35 Vetting contractor specialties and avoiding "one-size-fits-all" promises

06:56 Setting clear expectations on budget, timelines, and availability

11:20 Building goodwill: coffee, bagels, and small gestures that matter

12:57 Giving constructive feedback without damaging the relationship

15:30 The role of technology and tools in contractor accountability

17:45 How to track progress with digital communication and geocoded inspections

19:55 Starting small to test contractor reliability before bigger projects

21:31 Trusting instincts vs. making emotional decisions in disputes

22:48 Final takeaways and keeping professionalism at the forefront

Quotables

"Cheapest is not always best—referrals are the gold standard."

"Be wary of the contractor who says they can do everything. Find people who do one thing extremely well."

"Trust your instincts, but always act professionally. You never know when you'll need them again."

Links

RCN Capital

https://www.rcncapital.com/podcast

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

[email protected]

REI INK

https://rei-ink.com/

In this powerful episode of Uncontested Investing, Tom Truong—real estate entrepreneur and global leader at eXp Realty—joins the show to share the unconventional path that took him from an insurance CFO to managing 1,400 agents across 37 states and five countries.

Tom opens up about early lessons learned from his mom, how a chance trip to see Robert Kiyosaki shifted his mindset forever, and why his leadership style is built on doing the work with his team, not just telling them what to do. His philosophy of "show up early, get involved, stay late" has fueled a career marked by scale, generosity, and deep impact.

Whether you're a new investor looking to build your team or a seasoned pro wondering how to create more leverage, this episode delivers clear, actionable advice with heart.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 – Introduction to Tom Truong and the theme of building your team

01:00 – Tom shares his journey from insurance CFO to real estate investor

03:45 – Why Tom believes in investing with people, not just coaching them

05:45 – His core philosophy: do well financially so you can do good for others

07:15 – How he manages 1,400 agents with systems, structure, and CRM tools

10:30 – The global growth of eXp Realty and what makes it investor-friendly

13:50 – Identifying your hourly value and outsourcing low-impact tasks

17:30 – The most important roles to hire first as a real estate investor

22:30 – Tom's criteria for vetting team members and spotting commitment

26:00 – The story behind his personal mission to help 100 people succeed

28:00 – Using blockchain to expand access to real estate investing

30:10 – How Tom sets clear, written goals with accountability built in

32:00 – Dealing with underperformance through one-minute conversations

34:00 – Why Tom "jumps in the dumpster" and leads by example

35:45 – Tips for new investors to build a network and find their first deal

37:20 – Tom's passion: helping motivated people transform their lives

5 Key Takeaways

1. "Help 100 People" is more than a motto—it's Tom's mission. Inspired by his late mother, Tom is committed to lifting others up through education, partnership, and action.

2. Don't just coach—walk the walk. Tom believes the best mentorship comes from putting your own money into deals and doing them alongside your mentees.

3. Build systems, not just teams. He uses CRM tools and organized communication systems to manage a global team without dropping the ball.

4. Leverage is key. Identify your hourly value, then delegate everything else—Tom employs three assistants who work in shifts to cover nearly 24/7.

5. The fortune is in the follow-up. One of his core mantras is to stay in touch and track every meaningful interaction with intention.

Notable Quotes

"The fortune is in the follow-up." "If I tell you a deal is good, it's because I'm willing to put my money in it." "Show up early, get involved, stay late—those are the words my mom gave me, and I live by them." "You don't have to eat the whole pie. Split the pie and build a life around freedom."

Resources & Mentions

• Tom Truong on Instagram: @TomTruongRealEstate

• eXp Realty: https://www.exprealty.com

• RCN Capital: https://www.rcncapital.com/podcast

• REI Ink Magazine: https://www.rei-ink.com

Let me know if you'd like this formatted for YouTube, email, or blog content as well.

In this episode, we're diving into one of the most critical and often overlooked pillars of successful real estate investing: tenant screening. Whether you're just getting started or actively scaling your rental portfolio into the double or triple digits, your ability to consistently place the right tenant will either fuel your growth or derail it completely.

I've seen investors make the mistake of relying too much on their gut, rushing into lease agreements because a property's sitting vacant, or making subjective, emotionally driven decisions. That's a recipe for legal headaches, late rent, and high turnover. This episode is all about avoiding those pitfalls with a reliable, repeatable, and legally compliant process for screening tenants at scale.

We cover everything from automation tools to red flags to fair housing violations and we even get into how you can still offer second chances to tenants without putting your entire investment at risk.

If you're looking to grow without burning out, this is the episode for you.

Key Talking Points of the Episode

00:00 Introduction

01:27 How consistency will help with legal compliance and redlining risks

04:05 Screening criteria: credit, eviction, employment, and documentation

06:54 Leveraging technology to automate tenant screening

08:40 Legal compliance and city-specific ordinances for multi-market investors

09:43 Understanding the cost of vacancy when making decisions

10:15 The role of credit history vs. credit score and identifying red flags

12:27 How to effectively verify your tenant applicants' information

14:13 Avoiding fair housing violations: training your team and documenting everything

17:01 Why you can't afford to let emotion or "sob stories" cloud screening decisions

19:02 Second chances vs. red flags: how to evaluate borderline tenants legally and fairly

21:50 Building out a team that can support you as you grow your portfolio

23:54 Resources to help you get your processes aligned

Quotables

"Just because you have a beautiful asset doesn't mean finding the right tenant is a piece of cake."

"There should be no gray area. Your screening process needs to be consistent and legal for every single applicant."

"An eviction on record is a red flag. But don't just check boxes, look at patterns."

Links

RCN Capital

https://www.rcncapital.com/podcast

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

[email protected]

REI INK

https://rei-ink.com/