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What happens when an investor swears off banks, personal guarantees, and risky one-and-done deals? Chris Prefontaine rebuilt from the 2008 crash by creating a bank-free model that produces cash now, cash monthly, and cash at exit.

Summary:

Chris Prefontaine, founder of Smart Real Estate Coach, shares how losing everything in 2008 forced him to rewrite the rules of real estate. He now buys through owner financing and subject-to deals, prioritizes principal-only terms, and structures every transaction around his trademark “three paydays.” We unpack his lead-gen engines, VA-driven metrics, airtight legal processes, and why his coaching model includes revenue-share and real in-the-trenches support. This episode is packed with practical takeaways on scaling, staying safe legally, and building a legacy business with grit, patience, and clear expectations.

🎥 Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheSmallBusinessSafari

💡 GOLD NUGGETS 

• Setting new rules after losing everything in 2008
 • Buying without banks: owner financing & subject-to explained
 • Why principal-only terms matter more than price
 • The three paydays and how each creates predictable income
• Lead gen from expired, FSBO, FRBO, and free-and-clear lists
• How VAs drive outreach, metrics, and conversion consistency
• Legal must-haves and choosing the right attorneys
• Coaching that includes revenue-share and deal support
• Building a family-run team and long-term legacy
• Who succeeds: grit, patience, and realistic timelines

🔗 Guest Links

• Free Books: https://wickedsmartbooks.com/safari

• Smart Real Estate Coach: https://smartrealestatecoach.com

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisprefontaine/

🌍 Follow The Small Business Safari

• Instagram | @smallbusinesssafaripodcast
• LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrislalomia/
• Website | https://chrislalomia.com

From the Zoo to Wild is a book for entrepreneurs passionate about home services, looking to move away from corporate jobs. Chris Lalomia, a former executive, shares his path, discoveries, and tools to succeed as a small business owner in home improvement retail. The book provides the mindset, habits, leadership style, and customer-oriented processes necessary to succeed as a small business owner in home services.