Uncontested Investing

In this episode of Uncontested Investing, we will wrap up our deep dive into property management by exploring one of the smartest scaling tools in real estate: virtual assistants (VAs). From tenant communication to maintenance coordination and bookkeeping, VAs are changing the game for landlords, operators, and investors of all sizes.

We're breaking down how VAs can handle everything from leasing logistics to after-hours emergency calls and why using them can make a small operation look like a Fortune 500 team.

If you've been overwhelmed by the day-to-day or wondering how to grow without burning out, this episode offers real solutions with tested systems and tools.

Key Talking Points of the Episode

00:00 Introduction

00:47 The flexibility of working with VAs

01:49 Illusion of Size: How VAs can make you look bigger

03:26 Delegating leasing and tenant communication to VAs

05:04 Leveraging VAs for administrative tasks and operational efficiency

06:30 Lease renewals, document collection, and making sure timelines are met

07:39 Better maintenance management: responding to requests and after-hours support

10:00 Boosting tenant retention through high quality communication

12:35 Bookkeeping, reporting, and tracking payment activity

14:51 Where to find and hire trained VAs for your business

16:03 Time zone advantages and multilingual support from VAs

18:01 Training your VA: SOPs, permissions, and delegation boundaries

19:21 VA Communication Systems & Task Management Tools: Zoom, Slack, Trello

21:45 Setting the standards and providing training to support your VA

23:03 Building trust, promoting from within, and growing with a VA team

Quotables

"A VA can make you look like a 30-person team, even if it's just you and a partner running the show."

"If you're scaling, your time is better spent strategizing, not chasing utility bills."

"Build trust slowly. Start them on simple tasks. In six months, they could be running your books."

Links

RCN Capital

https://www.rcncapital.com/podcast

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

[email protected]

REI INK

https://rei-ink.com/

In this tech-driven episode of Uncontested Investing, we're diving into how property investors can streamline their rental operations by embracing the latest in property tech. From virtual showings and smart locks to tenant communication tools and automated rent collection, we break down the tools you need to improve tenant experience, boost your efficiency, and safeguard your properties.

Whether you're a first-time landlord or managing a growing portfolio, this conversation will help you level up.

We also touch on the future of real estate tech, from VR showings to AI-powered tenant support, and why your willingness to adopt these tools could be your biggest competitive advantage.

Key Talking Points of the Episode

00:00 Introduction

00:40 Why tech matters in property management

02:01 The big four benefits of property tech

03:23 How property tech has evolved over the years

04:00 Leasing and Tenant Acquisitions: Zillow, Redfin, Apartments.com

05:02 Virtual tours and 3D walkthroughs for tenants moving from out of state

07:11 Online rental applications and background checks

09:44 How technology provides security for both tenants and landlords

10:45 Secure cloud storage and data protection

12:08 Rent collection and accounting software: Buildium, Appfolio, RentRedi

13:08 How automations can help back you up in resolving squatter issues

14:53 Tax season benefits from using Quickbooks for accounting

17:00 How maintenance management tech increases efficiency

20:34 Smart Home Technology for preventive maintenance

22:16 The biggest benefits of using smart home technology in your rentals

24:05 The impact of having effective tenant communication

25:43 Leveraging analytics and forecasting platforms

28:11 The future of property management technology: AI chatbots, smart locks, and more

30:06 Why it's important to learn technology for your rental properties

Quotables

"If you're afraid of tech, you're kind of an outsider in this industry now."

"Even mom-and-pop landlords with fewer than 25 doors can and should be using tech."

"Tech isn't just a convenience—it's how you stay competitive, compliant, and connected."

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 sitting down with Kelly Brooks, the dynamic CEO of Property Masters, to unpack her powerful journey from early college challenges to leading one of the most trusted renovation companies in the industry. Kelly shares how she built a culture that prioritizes consistency, trust, and treating every project like it's her own and how her leadership style has led to explosive growth and a reputation for excellence.

From being one of the first women to lead in a male-dominated construction space to expanding into new markets with strategic vision, Kelly delivers real advice for investors looking to grow their portfolios and partner with the right vendors.

This episode is packed with insights for new and seasoned real estate investors who are serious about building long-term success.

Key Talking Points of the Episode

00:00 Introduction 01:40 Kelly's unconventional start in real estate 02:40 Breaking into the Fannie Mae SAM program 03:55 Balancing business building and motherhood 05:05 From 3 employees to 150+: How culture scaled with growth 07:06 Property Masters' cradle-to-grave renovation model 10:29 Kelly's career-defining moments and pivots 13:36 Growth lessons from market slowdowns 14:53 Renovation priorities across commercial and residential 17:30 How Property Masters handles reviews and feedback loops20:12 Building peer recognition and company culture 22:27 Tips for investors vetting vendors and avoiding scams 24:04 The real cost of working with the wrong contractors 28:59 Kelly's two-part life and business motto 30:54 Approaching networking opportunities as your genuine self 32:05 The future of Property Masters

Quotables

"Do what you say you're going to do. Treat people the way you want to be treated. That's how I lead, raise my kids, and run this business."

"You can always find someone $5 cheaper. But can you find someone who will pick up the phone and do what they promised?"

"We don't grow just to grow. We expand when we've earned the right to—when we've proven we dominate the markets we're in."

Links

Property Masters

https://propertymasters.com/

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 sit down with Sean Miller, Chief Revenue Officer at Lessen, to explore how technology is reshaping property management. From single-family rentals to multifamily and commercial portfolios, Sean shares how Lessen streamlines maintenance operations, uses AI and IoT to anticipate repairs, and helps investors scale more efficiently without losing control of their assets.

Whether you're a landlord managing two homes or a professional operator with hundreds of units, this conversation unpacks how to combine local expertise, operational systems, and smart technology to stay ahead in today's evolving real estate landscape.

Key Talking Points of the Episode

00:00 Introduction 01:00 How Sean got into real estate investing 02:06 The common characteristics of successful leaders 03:09 Building Lessen and scaling to 3.5M+ work orders 04:37 Property management as a tech-enabled service 06:30 Sean's Deal Breaker/Deal Maker: the most pivotal moment in his career 08:02 When should a real estate investor hire a property manager? 10:22 Leveraging tech in property management with Lessen 11:36 Core features every scalable property management system needs 13:49 IoT use cases: From smart fridges to HVAC monitoring 16:23 The resident experience & retention strategies 17:40 What is IoT? 19:03 Managing turnover timelines & vendor reliability 20:46 Lessen's use of AI for task routing & QC optimization 22:19 What's next for Lessen and how to partner with them

Quotables

"Tech is powerful, but it has to solve a real need. For us, it's about making operations more efficient and predictable."

"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take—and if you're afraid of mistakes, you'll never innovate."

"Cost is what you pay. Value is what you get. And faster turns mean more value, even if the price is higher."

Links:

Lessen

https://www.lessen.com/

RCN Capital

https://www.rcncapital.com/podcast

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

[email protected]

REI INK

https://rei-ink.com/

In today's episode of Uncontested Investing, we dig into one of the most powerful tools at your disposal as a real estate investor: data. It's not just about crunching numbers, it's about making smarter, faster, more strategic decisions in a market where the margin for error is razor-thin.

We break down how investors can use both free and paid data tools to spot trends, find deals, set optimal rental rates, and avoid costly mistakes. From migration patterns to ZIP-code-based labor rates, they share real-world ways to let data guide your portfolio growth.

If you're still relying on your gut, this episode is your wake-up call.

Key Talking Points of the Episode

00:00 Introduction 01:16 What patterns tell us (vacancy, rent shifts, migration) 02:34 How market influences can change your buy box and strategies 04:03 Property-type trends and market adaptability 05:35 Free tools: Zillow, Redfin, Rentometer, Census.gov, HUD 07:20 Paid tools: CoStar, PropStream, Roofstock, AirDNA, Dwelling 09:22 Local tools: Agents, REIAs, county offices 11:02 How data can help you identify emerging markets 12:01 Avoiding emotional buying with consistent criteria 13:03 The cost of ignoring data: overpaying for properties 15:06 Analysis paralysis: when too much data kills the deal 17:00 Why you need to use data alerts as an investor 18:14 Weekly rent comps and rent optimization 19:31 Balancing rental increases with tenant retention 20:23 Manual tracking: using spreadsheets for micro-market analysis

Quotables

"Use the data to take emotion out of it. You'll never get a wrong answer when math is leading the way."

"Census.gov will smack you in the face with the truth. It's not customizable—it's real."

"One bad deal early can drive a new investor right out of the game. Data helps you avoid that."

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 deep into how real estate investors can navigate market cycles and decide when and where to buy. We're breaking down the nuances of local vs. national investing, the right timing to enter a market, and how to build reliable partnerships to grow confidently, whether in your own backyard or across state lines.

If you've ever asked, "Is now a good time to buy?" or "Should I go beyond my local market?", this conversation is your compass.

Expect hands-on strategies, practical tips, and real talk about how to reduce risk and scale smart.

Key Talking Points of the Episode

00:00 Introduction 00:42 When is the best time to buy real estate? 01:20 Market phases: recovery, recession, expansion 02:06 Renovation, return strategies, and cash planning 03:08 Setting your buy box & knowing your numbers 05:03 The importance of strong local contractor & lender relationships 06:30 Negotiation leverage & properties returning to market 09:16 Local market vs out-of-state: What to know before expanding 10:03 Partnering with local employers to find tenant demand 13:56 The downsides of local investing: bias and limited diversification 16:01 National investing: flexibility, affordability, and broader opportunity 17:19 The importance of diversifying your investments 18:09 Migration trends and identifying hidden market potential 19:19 Building a network that can help you grow into different markets 20:12 Property management across state lines: pros and cons 22:30 Connecting with local chambers of commerce 23:40 Choosing your strategy: hands-on vs. hands-off 25:12 Is your current market aligned with your goals? 27:01 The power of partnerships & scaling with other investors 28:01 Myth busting: Risk, visibility, and the local advantage 30:31 Evolving your strategy over time

Quotables

"Every market is not created equally. What works in Connecticut might not work in California."

"You don't always need to see the property in person. Virtual closings are here, and they're working."

"Diversification isn't just about assets—it's about geography, strategy, and who's on your team."

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, let's dive deep into the world of emerging real estate markets—what they are, how to spot them, and why they present some of the best opportunities for investors looking to get ahead of the curve.

We break down the key indicators like job growth, migration patterns, and infrastructure investments that signal when a market is about to take off. Plus, we share real-world examples of once-overlooked cities that turned into major success stories—and how you can get in early on the next wave.

If you're serious about growing your portfolio in smart, sustainable ways, this episode will show you how to think like a market analyst and act like a pioneer.

Key Talking Points of the Episode

00:00 Introduction 01:00 Seasonal buying strategies: Pittsburgh in winter, Arizona in summer 02:37 The power of suburbs and sister cities: Nashville vs. Memphis 03:38 Military bases and high-cap opportunities 05:14 Resources for tracking migration data 06:37 The 26-50 tier of cities: where hidden gems are found 08:40 Manufacturing resurgence: Detroit, Pittsburgh, Charleston, TX markets 10:10 Two-hour commute range: balance remote life and urban access 11:38 Job growth, diversified industries, population growth 13:33 Holding costs to watch: taxes, insurance, and more 15:25 College towns evolving into full-blown metros 16:35 The BRRR strategy in an emerging market 18:07 Short-term rentals: disaster relief and traveling professionals 19:57 National associations and REI networking groups for on-the-ground intel

Quotables

"If you can't find the right opportunity in a big city, look two hours outside of it."

"Buy when it's not pretty. That's when you get in before the REITs do."

"The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is today—same goes for investing in an emerging market."

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 digging into a niche that doesn't get enough attention but absolutely deserves it—mobile home park investing.

We break down the unique appeal of mobile home parks, from strong cash flow and low turnover to recession resilience and affordable housing demand. We also talk about how sustainable housing trends like tiny homes and 3D-printed houses are redefining what mobile home parks can look like in the future.

If you're an investor looking for a stable, scalable strategy with long-term upside, this conversation will show you why mobile home parks could be your next best move.

Key Talking Points of the Episode

00:00 Introduction

01:10 Affordable housing demand and national reach of mobile home parks 02:19 Evolution: Tiny homes, 3D-printed homes, sustainable living trends

04:23 Amenities and community-building in mobile home parks 05:14 Why mobile home parks are recession-resistant investments 07:36 Low operating costs, high NOI, and tenant-owned homes 09:01 Low turnover = long-term tenants = cash flow stability 10:20 Resident purchase rights: 60-day window to buy the park 11:49 Value-add potential: upgrades, amenities, landscaping 13:55 Section 8 opportunities and guaranteed income streams 14:40 Don't overlook mobile home parks for long-term success Quotables

"You can't earn back a minute. And you can't easily replace a tenant that's lived in your park for decades."

"Mobile home parks are recession-resistant because they start with affordability at the core."

"Tiny homes and 3D-printed houses are redefining what mobile home parks can become."

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 wrap up our series on property types and niches with one of the biggest (and boldest) plays in the game: land development.

We break down everything from selecting the right parcel to zoning, setbacks, infrastructure, and creative exit strategies. You'll learn how to partner with engineers, architects, and sellers to reduce your risk—and how land development, when done right, can lead to decades of generational wealth.

It's not for the faint of heart, but if you're ready to build something truly lasting, this episode is your blueprint.

Key Talking Points of the Episode

00:00 Introduction

01:01 Why the plan is important in land development

02:18 Zoning ordinances, road construction, setbacks & design 03:06 Land development as a long game with high ROI

04:01 Understanding your end goal

05:31 Amenities, utilities, public vs. private water, and site prep 06:15 Equity splits, lots for family, or long-term revenue share

08:17 How to present your vision – not as the big city buyer, but with humility

10:46 Exit strategies: flip entitled land, sell lots, or build to rent

13:51 Building a community? Talk to realtors about rental demand

14:17 Why market research matters in land development

15:16 Key risks: zoning issues, project delays, and local ordinances

16:36 Infrastructure costs: paving, grading, burying utilities

17:19 Carry costs, investor timelines, and financial runway

18:05 Location risk: flood zones, slopes, and natural disasters

Quotables

"Land development isn't a rinse-and-repeat strategy—it's a creative, location-driven play."

"If you get one land development deal right, it can set you up for the rest of your career."

"This strategy is slower—but it's smarter, scalable, and incredibly profitable when done right."

Links

RCN Capital

https://www.rcncapital.com/podcast

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

[email protected]

REI INK

https://rei-ink.com/

On this week's episode of Uncontested Investing, we unpack one of the most recession-resistant, overlooked niches in the game: self-storage investing. It may not sound sexy, but storage units are delivering strong, stable cash flow with low risk, minimal management headaches, and surprisingly scalable upside.

We break down how smart investors are leveraging storage to diversify their portfolios, reduce liability, automate operations, and add value through tech, partnerships, and even RV/boat parking.

If you're looking for an asset that's pandemic-proven, economically resilient, and built for automation, this episode lays out the full playbook.

Key Talking Points of the Episode

00:00 Introduction

01:11 Why self-storage is an important asset class

02:30 Space is at a premium even in small living units and tiny homes

03:53 No toilets, no tenants, low maintenance = high margin 06:05 Built-in tech: smart locks, remote gate access, cameras, mobile pay 07:09 The flexibility and accessibility in self-storage

08:50 Using virtual assistance to build local partnerships

11:04 Value-add strategies: paving lots, updating tech, U-Haul affiliate income

12:48 Co-sign with trusted names (like U-Haul) 14:11 Monetizing self-storage space for RVs, boats, trailers

15:52 Market versatility: how it works in rural, suburban, and urban areas

17:30 Having your VA cold calling for occupancy

Quotables

"Storage is one of the only asset classes that's recession-resistant, pandemic-proven, and still scaling."

"No tenants, no toilets, and no trash—it's the dream trifecta for passive investors."

"If you own a rental portfolio, you're already halfway there. Cross-sell storage to your tenants and watch your cash flow grow."

Links

RCN Capital

https://www.rcncapital.com/podcast

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

[email protected]

REI INK

https://rei-ink.com/