Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing

Short-term rentals are still a popular asset class, but you have to optimize them for your guest avatar to get them right.

On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan sits down with Mark Lumpkin, Sales Director at STR Cribs. STR Cribs helps STR owners understand what makes a high-performing short-term rental. They are renovation and design experts for top-performing short-term rentals nationwide.

Jonathan and Mark start their conversation by exploring the features a short-term rental needs to stand out, how you can optimize a property's features, and the importance of addressing preventative maintenance before it becomes a problem. Mark explains why paying attention to guest feedback, performing trial stays at a property with friends and family, and the difference between market-specific and universal amenities is important. You'll hear why data is essential in purchasing the right property in the right market, why you shouldn't overlook secondary STR markets, and adding ADU or disability accessibility to appeal to more guests. Finally, Mark shares how he and his wife began investing in STRs, how STR Cribs can help STR owners design and build their ideal short-term rental, and his advice for investing in an asset you can use and rent out.

Short-term rentals continue to be a popular option for real estate investors, and now, more than ever, they have to stand out from the crowd. Mark Lumpkin offers insights on creating a property you and your guests can enjoy.

In this episode, you will hear:

• What drew Mark Lumpkin to short-term rentals, and why each STR has to stand out
• Optimizing the features of each property and customizing it to your guest avatar
• Addressing preventive maintenance and longevity rather than putting them off
• Paying attention to guest reviews and listening to feedback
• Staying in your properties and asking friends and family to stay there to address any issues you didn't think about
• Market-specific amenities versus universal amenities based on different guest types
• Using data to purchase the right property in the right market
• Why you shouldn't overlook some of the secondary STR markets
• The importance of ADU or disability accessibility in a property
• How Mark and his wife began investing in STRs after some international travel where they learned some lessons about what did not fit their lifestyle
• How STR Cribs helps STR owners design and build their ideal STR
• The lack of top-tier homes available as STRs and the best ROI amenities
• Mark's advice for investing in an STR you can use as well as rent out

Follow and Review:

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If you enjoyed this episode, we've created a PDF that has all of the key information for you from the episode. Just go to the episode page at https://zenandtheartofrealestateinvesting.com/podcast/228/ to download it.

Supporting Resources:

STR Cribs website - STRCribs.com

STR Cribs on YouTube - www.youtube.com/@STRCrib

Connect with Mark Lumpkin on LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/mark-lumpkin-84b173142

Website - www.streamlined.properties

YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos

Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene

Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties

TikTok - www.tiktok.com/@trustgreene

Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/StreamlinedReal

Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/TrustGreene

Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties

Email - [email protected]

Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Creating a real estate side hustle can be a great way to hone your skills while continuing to build your primary source of real estate income. Today's guest has a new book that teaches you exactly how to do it.

On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan welcomes returning guest Devon Kennard. Devon is a former NFL pro football player and author of the new book "Real Estate Side Hustle." He is also an investor and a lender.

Jonathan and Devon dive into their conversation by discussing Devon's new book, "Real Estate Side Hustle," and what you can learn from it. Devon shares how he's building systems to create processes using AI, the importance of identifying your side hustle goal, and why he dislikes the lack of control in syndications. You'll hear the difference between fast and slow money, why you should be continuously learning, and the four components of a good real estate team. Finally, Jonathan and Devon cover why cheaper markets and properties aren't necessarily the best investing method and why you should view your real estate business as a ticket to FIRE.

A career in real estate doesn't mean you have to focus on just one component. Devon Kennard explains how creating a side hustle within the industry can help you achieve your goals faster.

In this episode, you will hear:

• Devon Kennard's inspiration for his second book, "Real Estate Side Hustle"
• Calculated risk and building out systems to create a process using AI
• Identifying what's most important in your side hustle and focusing on those goals
• Why Devon began lending primarily in his local area instead of across the country
• His experiences with syndications and why he dislikes the lack of control in them
• Fast versus slow money
• Creating a side hustle alongside your career and not idealizing retirement but instead creating time freedom
• The importance of continuous learning
• Devon's ideal client for 42 Solutions and his preference for experienced borrowers
• The four components of a good team: deal finder, contractor, property manager, and lender
• Why starting in the cheaper markets and properties isn't always the best investing method
• The social media influence to count doors and why it isn't always the best indicator of wealth
• Business as the ticket to FIRE

Follow and Review:

We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, we've created a PDF that has all of the key information for you from the episode. Just go to the episode page at https://zenandtheartofrealestateinvesting.com/podcast/227/ to download it.

Supporting Resources:

Devon Kennard's website - www.devonkennard.com

Find Devon on YouTube - www.youtube.com/@devonkennard42

Devon's Facebook page - www.facebook.com/DevonKennard

Devon on Instagram - www.instagram.com/devonkennard/?hl=en

Connect with Devon Kennard on LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/devon-kennard-b1080547

Devon's Twitter/X - x.com/devonkennard

42 Solutions website - weare42solutions.com

Get Devon's new book, "Real Estate Side Hustle" - store.biggerpockets.com/products/real-estate-side-hustle

Website - www.streamlined.properties

YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos

Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene

Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties

TikTok - www.tiktok.com/@trustgreene

Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/StreamlinedReal

Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/TrustGreene

Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties

Email - [email protected]

Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Securing a solid financial future is often the biggest reason people enter the world of real estate investing, which doesn't require attaining as many properties as you may believe.

On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan interviews Melissa Nash, founder of Lady Luck Investments, which emerged out of necessity. Melissa built a portfolio that secured her family's financial future in less than six years. Now, she's teaching other women how they can do the same. Melissa wants to change the story of women in real estate and create a legacy of wealth and empowerment.

Jonathan and Melissa start their conversation with the story of Melissa's grandmother-in-law, who began investing in real estate in Los Angeles in the 1960s. Melissa shares her difficulties as a female investor today, her early failures due to her unwillingness to learn, and how a mentor introduced her to turnkey real estate. She highlights the success she eventually found with a Section 8 property, eventually leading to buying some short-term rentals, and explains why she self-manages her properties rather than paying a property manager. You'll hear the importance of being a good host with STRs, using those STRs to generate immediate cash flow to fund other ventures, and what new investors fail to do as they start their portfolios.

Building a financial future with real estate is a method used for generations, and Melissa Nash is creating a legacy of wealth for her family.

In this episode, you will hear:

• Melissa Nash's inspiration from her husband's grandmother, who was a real estate investor in Los Angeles in the 1960s and '70s
• The difficulties of being a female real estate investor, even today
• The failures Melissa experienced before her real estate career took off
• Her unwillingness to learn in the beginning which contributed to those early failures
• How a mentor introduced Melissa to turnkey real estate
• Finding success with a Section 8 property and how that led to short-term rental purchases she self-manages
• The importance of being a good host for great feedback
• Adding or removing amenities based on requests or negative feedback
• STRs as a way to generate immediate cash flow for more STRs or long-term rentals
• Using your rentals for your own enjoyment and building a generational legacy with real estate investing
• What new investors fail to do as they get their portfolios started
• Melissa's mission to educate women on real estate and the potential it offers

Follow and Review:

We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, we've created a PDF that has all of the key information for you from the episode. Just go to the episode page at https://zenandtheartofrealestateinvesting.com/podcast/226/ to download it.

Supporting Resources:

Melissa Nash's website - ​​www.hellomelissanash.com

Melissa's YouTube channel - www.youtube.com/@hellomelissanash

Lady Luck Investments on Facebook - www.facebook.com/ladyluckinvestments

Find Melissa on Instagram - www.instagram.com/hellomelissanash

Connect with Melissa on LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-nash-35aa0745/

Website - www.streamlined.properties

YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos

Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene

Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties

TikTok - www.tiktok.com/@trustgreene

Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/StreamlinedReal

Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/TrustGreene

Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties

Email - [email protected]

Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Property management isn't often at the top of a new investor's list when they're thinking about buying a piece of real estate. However, property management can be the ticket to a stress-free investing experience.

On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan welcomes Mo Hashem, the visionary behind Flat Fee Landlord, one of the country's fastest-growing residential property management companies. He helps working professionals go from owning one primary residence into profitable real estate investments. Mo has worked across the real estate industry in investing, property management, managing and buying multifamily, selling homes, and training real estate professionals. He has more than 4,000 tenants and has worked with over 2,000 investors.

Jonathan and Mo begin their discussion with Mo Hashem's introduction to real estate in college as a career and why he saw it as a vehicle to attain freedom. Mo outlines how he benefitted from a real estate license, the biggest misconception about single-family assets, and how hiring a competent property manager to do the work you don't want can aid your business. You'll hear how to find the right property manager, why scaling is important in real estate, and the importance of maintaining a day job–probably for longer than you thought you should. Finally, Mo shares why you need to be comfortable with your finances, how he started Flat Fee Landlord, and his advice for placing tenants and their pets in your properties.

A great property manager can be a game-changer. Mo Hashem's tips make it easier to identify what you need in a property manager.

In this episode, you will hear:

• Mo Hashem's introduction to real estate as a way to earn an income in college
• Looking at real estate as a vehicle to attain freedom
• Benefitting from a real estate license and the post-2008 economy Mo had to overcome
• The biggest misconception about single-family rentals
• Hiring a competent property management company to do the work you don't want to do
• Finding the right property manager for your rentals and when to hand off management
• The importance of scale in real estate
• Mo's advice for starting a real estate portfolio while retaining your day job
• Staying power in the real estate investing game and treating it like a business
• The role of finances in investing and finding the middle ground where you're comfortable
• The inception of Flat Fee Landlord and how Mo differentiated it from other property management services
• Vetting tenants and choosing where to invest based on state laws
• Mo's advice for placing tenants and pets in your properties

Follow and Review:

We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, we've created a PDF that has all of the key information for you from the episode. Just go to the episode page at https://zenandtheartofrealestateinvesting.com/podcast/225/ to download it.

Supporting Resources:

Flat Fee Landlord - Houston Property Management - www.houstonpropertymanager.com

Flat Fee Landlord on YouTube - www.youtube.com/channel/UCTA-4GbXo56Ukw6MKMDlhYA

Find Flat Fee Landlord on Facebook - /www.facebook.com/FlatFeeLandlordDFW

Flat Fee Landlord's Instagram - www.instagram.com/flatfeelandlord

Connect with Mo Hashem on LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/moahashem

Flat Fee Landlord on X - x.com/flatfeelandlord

Website - www.streamlined.properties

YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos

Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene

Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties

TikTok - www.tiktok.com/@trustgreene

Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/StreamlinedReal

Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/TrustGreene

Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties

Email - [email protected]

Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Betting on yourself first is often the key to creating a real impact on your real estate investing journey.

On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan welcomes guests Nate Shields and Troy Zimmerman from Missional Capital Group. Missional Capital Group is a real estate investment company that believes financial success should be driven by purpose and ethical principles. Nate and Troy's journey began with a simple yet powerful vision to create a platform that aligns financial prosperity with social responsibility.

Jonathan, Nate, and Troy start their discussion by delving into Troy and Nate's introductions to real estate. You'll hear how they met, the block Troy had as a financial advisor, how Nate and Troy overcame it to form Missional Capital Group, and why relationships are important to real estate transactions. Nate and Troy explain the importance of betting on yourself first, having income streams outside of syndication investments, and how they decided syndications are a good investment using the strategies they developed for investing. Finally, Nate and Troy share how they chose their market in Alabama, their primary source for finding off-market deals, the benefits of holding a real estate license as an investor, and how meetups can be a great way to connect to other investors.

Syndications can create the impactful passive real estate investing many investors are seeking. Nate Shields and Troy Zimmerman outline what you need to know about this investing vehicle.

In this episode, you will hear:

• Troy Zimmerman's initial interest in real estate through his family members
• Nate Shields's introduction to real estate in his early 20s after reading "Rich Dad Poor Dad" and "Rich Dad's CASHFLOW Quadrant"
• How Troy and Nate met and began working together, and the impact market shifts have had on their business model over the years
• The block Troy had as a financial advisor to form Missional Capital Group with Nate
• Relationships and why they matter so much in real estate transactions
• Betting on yourself first and the importance of having income streams outside of syndication investments
• Deciding to begin investing in syndications and how Troy and Nate's strategy gave them confidence
• Investing in Alabama and their fortune in finding that particular market
• Troy and Nate's leading source for finding off-market deals
• Opportunities for seller financing and what makes it harder to implement than most other strategies
• The benefits of holding a real estate license as an investor
• Nate and Troy's current buy box and the importance of a trusted property manager
• Meetups as a way to get connected to other investors and their advice for new investors

Follow and Review:

We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, we've created a PDF that has all of the key information for you from the episode. Just go to the episode page at https://zenandtheartofrealestateinvesting.com/podcast/224/ to download it.

Supporting Resources:

Missional Capital Group - www.missional.group

Missional Capital Group's Facebook page - www.facebook.com/missionalcapital

Missional Capital on Instagram - www.instagram.com/missionalcapital

Find Missional Capital on LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/company/missional-capital-group

Troy Zimmerman on Instagram - www.instagram.com/troygzimmerman

Connect with Troy on LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/troyzimmerman

Find Nate Shields on Instagram - www.instagram.com/nate_shields

Connect with Nate on LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/nate-shields

Website - www.streamlined.properties

YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos

Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene

Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties

TikTok - www.tiktok.com/@trustgreene

Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/StreamlinedReal

Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/TrustGreene

Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties

Email - [email protected]

Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Diversifying your real estate portfolio can be the ticket to lasting wealth and legacy.

On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan welcomes Whitney Elkins-Hutten, a former healthcare professional turned real estate investor. An investor since 2002, Whitney is a passive income strategist dedicated to helping busy professionals achieve financial freedom and build lasting wealth. She is the founder of Ash Wealth and part of the PassiveInvesting.com team.

Jonathan and Whitney begin their conversation by discussing the importance of diversity in investing and some lessons she learned early in her investing career. Whitney shares her challenges with interest rates even before the 2008 financial crisis, what led her into real estate, and her love-hate relationship with real estate social media. She explains why having reserves for problems that arise in your investing career is important, doing your due diligence before purchasing a property, and what prompted Whitney to move into syndications and scale her business. Finally, she and Jonathan cover the assets she would advise someone to purchase today, the downsides of 1031 exchanges, and the three things you need to be successful in real estate.

Whitney Elkins-Hutten has built a portfolio that creates a legacy and teaches others how to do the same.

In this episode, you will hear:

• The importance of diversity in investing, according to Whitney Elkins-Hutten
• Whitney's challenges with interest rates and what that taught her about diversity
• Her entry into real estate in 2002 and what led her into it
• The disaster that happened 24 hours after closing on one of her properties
• Whitney's love-hate relationship with social media related to real estate
• Setting aside reserves for the problems that can arise in real estate investing
• Doing your due diligence before buying a property, and what photos don't tell you
• Scaling up the business, moving from flipping into rentals, and what prompted Whitney to move into syndications
• Building a debt layer into her portfolio as another form of diversity
• The assets Whitney would advise someone to purchase today if they want to diversify their portfolios
• Understanding how to compound your money over time
• The downsides of doing 1031 exchanges, the importance of a solid financial foundation, and the three things you need to be successful in real estate

Follow and Review:

We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, we've created a PDF that has all of the key information for you from the episode. Just go to the episode page at https://zenandtheartofrealestateinvesting.com/podcast/223/ to download it.

Supporting Resources:

PassiveInvesting.com - www.passiveinvesting.com

Whitney Elkins-Hutten on LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/whitneyelkinshutten

Ash Wealth - ashwealth.com

Website - www.streamlined.properties

YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos

Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene

Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties

TikTok - www.tiktok.com/@trustgreene

Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/StreamlinedReal

Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/TrustGreene

Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties

Email - [email protected]

Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Owning luxury real estate can offer lifestyle benefits aside from the perks of an income-producing asset.

On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan interviews Stephen Petasky, founder and CEO of the Luxus Group. Luxus aims to provide an overall travel solution for affluent families seeking enhanced vacation experiences. Luxus Group includes Luxus Developments, Luxus Restorations, Luxus Vacation Properties, and a special project called Ena Lake Lodge, a private fishing club.

Jonathan and Stephen start their discussion by exploring Stephen's interest in the luxury real estate space that began with his parents. Stephen explains why it's important to enjoy the real estate you own and the lifestyle that comes with it, balancing making a profit with enjoying your properties, and involving the entire family in a vacation or luxury property purchase. You'll hear about Stephen and his wife's first investment purchases and how they involved family and friends, understanding your target avatar, and why remaining hyper-local and understanding your community's needs can be a business boost. Finally, Stephen outlines what he's looking forward to as his business grows and evolves and builds brand loyalty and trust with guests.

Part of the appeal of buying real estate is its tangibility, and owning luxury properties can up the ante. Stephen Petasky reveals how he built a successful business with luxury properties while enjoying them with his family.

In this episode, you will hear:

• How Stephen Petasky developed an interest in the luxury real estate space through his parents
• Enjoying the real estate you own and the lifestyle it can create
• The balance between making a profit and enjoying the properties you own
• Involving the whole family in a vacation or luxury property purchase
• Stephen and his wife's first investment purchases and how they involved family and friends
• Understanding who your avatar is and building the business around something you're passionate about
• The transition from the initial iteration of Luxus to vacation rental management as Airbnb became more popular
• Remaining hyper-local and understanding your community's needs
• What Stephen is looking forward to as his business grows
• The loyalty guests feel to brands and how operators can retain that loyalty

Follow and Review:

We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, we've created a PDF that has all of the key information for you from the episode. Just go to the episode page at https://zenandtheartofrealestateinvesting.com/podcast/222/ to download it.

Supporting Resources:

Luxus Vacation Properties - www.luxusvp.com

Luxus Vacation Properties on YouTube - www.youtube.com/@luxusvp

Find Luxus on Instagram - www.instagram.com/luxusvp

Connect with Stephen Petasky on LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-petasky-86437711

Luxus Group - www.luxusgroup.com

Luxus Restorations - www.luxusrestorations.com

Website - www.streamlined.properties

YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos

Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene

Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties

TikTok - www.tiktok.com/@trustgreene

Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/StreamlinedReal

Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/TrustGreene

Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties

Email - [email protected]

Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Self-storage is an under-the-radar asset class that can be a real game-changer for creating wealth. Today's guest has incredible knowledge about it and is on a mission to teach others about its benefits.

On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan welcomes Mark Helm, a self-storage and real estate veteran. Mark is the author of "Creating Wealth Through Self-Storage" and co-owner and principal broker of Nexus Commercial Advisors. He also developed the self-storage financial analysis software Storage World Analyzer. Mark owns several self-storage facilities, is a self-storage developer, investor, speaker, consultant, and trainer, and is the co-owner and partner of Resolve.

Jonathan and Mark begin their conversation by exploring Mark's early career in real estate as a way to create supplemental income for his day job. Mark quickly discovered he loved real estate, attaining his CCIM designation and working as a commercial broker before moving into investing in self-storage. You'll hear the challenges he initially faced, why no other asset is more localized, and what makes self-storage recession-resistant. Mark shares his strategy for self-storage, how he evaluates occupancy levels, and his opinion on dynamic pricing. Finally, he explains what he likes about conversions and expansions, the five KPIs Mark uses for every facility and manager, and technology's impact on the self-storage industry.

Mark Helm is a veteran real estate professional and self-storage guru. This episode is a must-listen for a deep dive into the self-storage world.

In this episode, you will hear:

• Mark Helm's interest in real estate as a way to supplement his income and how that led to a full-time career in real estate
• His attraction to commercial real estate, getting his CCIM designation, and then moving into investing in self-storage
• The challenges Mark faced when he started in self-storage and the benefits that outweighed them
• The importance of visibility in self-storage and why no other asset is more localized
• How this asset class can fail, and what makes it recession-resistant
• Mark's strategy for self-storage and determining which deals are a yes or no
• Where he believes the deals are today
• Evaluating occupancy levels in a self-storage space
• Mark's take on dynamic pricing
• Why the income increase should be higher than operational costs
• What Mark likes about conversions and expansions
• The five KPIs Mark uses for every facility and manager and how technology has changed the business
• Constructing self-storage units and some of the issues that can arise

Follow and Review:

We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, we've created a PDF that has all of the key information for you from the episode. Just go to the episode page at https://zenandtheartofrealestateinvesting.com/podcast/221/ to download it.

Supporting Resources:

Creating Wealth Through Self-Storage - creatingwealththroughselfstorage.com

Mark Helm on YouTube - www.youtube.com/channel/UCFwEQnGiNYB46SSs2_HoTsA

Find Mark on Facebook - www.facebook.com/mark.helm.33

Connect with Mark on LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/markhelmccim

Resolve - resolveself-storage.com

Get the "Creating Wealth Through Self-Storage" book - www.amazon.com/Creating-Wealth-Through-Self-Storage-ebook/dp/B00TP5VWVM

Website - www.streamlined.properties

YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos

Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene

Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties

TikTok - www.tiktok.com/@trustgreene

Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/StreamlinedReal

Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/TrustGreene

Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties

Email - [email protected]

Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Cost segregation can save you a lot of money on your investment properties through taxes. Today's guest is an expert on this topic and shares what you need to know about cost segregation.

On today's episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan interviews Erik Oliver, Vice President of National Accounts at Cost Segregation Authority. His company reclassifies assets, which then allows you to accelerate the depreciation. Using this strategy could save you a ton of money on taxes.

Jonathan and Erik explore cost segregation and who it benefits. You'll hear Erik's example of cost segregation for an office building, the importance of hiring an accountant specializing in this concept and real estate, and the audit considerations when you decide to do cost segregation. You'll hear what Erik believes is the "must do" asset class for cost seg, the value of setting up a team to help mitigate your tax burden, and what Erik learned from his first disastrous rental property. Finally, Erik explains his involvement with micro apartments and opportunity zones as an answer to the affordable housing problem and the importance of cost segs in syndication investments.

Taxes can take a big bite out of your investment income, and cost segregation can make a big difference in your returns. Don't miss Erik Oliver's expertise in making the most of cost segregation.

In this episode, you will hear:

• What cost segregation is, and who needs it
• Erik Oliver's example of cost segregation for an office building
• The importance of hiring an accountant who understands the concept of cost segregation and real estate
• Why cost segregation is way deeper than just the "stuff"
• Audit considerations when performing cost segregation
• The "must do" asset class for cost seg
• Setting up a team that can help you mitigate your tax burden
• Applying cost seg across multiple properties or in a house hacking scenario
• Erik's first rental property, why it was a disaster, and what he learned from it
• Micro apartments and opportunity zones as an answer to the affordable housing problem
• The importance of cost segs in syndication investments

Follow and Review:

We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, we've created a PDF that has all of the key information for you from the episode. Just go to the episode page at https://zenandtheartofrealestateinvesting.com/podcast/220/ to download it.

Supporting Resources:

Cost Segregation Authority - www.costsegauthority.com

CSA Partners on LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/company/csapartners

Website - www.streamlined.properties

YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos

Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene

Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties

TikTok - www.tiktok.com/@trustgreene

Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/StreamlinedReal

Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/TrustGreene

Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties

Email - [email protected]

Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Having the right data is one way to ensure your investment in a short-term rental is a good one.

On today's episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, John Bianchi, the Airbnb Data Guy, sits down with Jonathan to explain the importance of data when buying a short-term rental. John is the founder of STR Search, which matches clients with the highest cash-flowing short-term properties. John is also the creator of Air Valuation and Air Optimization systems.

Jonathan and John discuss how John became the Airbnb Data Guy. John shares the widespread availability of data and how it has impacted inexperienced investors getting into the STR market. He and Jonathan discuss why so many new Airbnb investors fail, how he developed an interest in STRs, and his start in real estate investing with arbitrage. John reveals the importance of balancing a worst-case scenario with taking action, what he looks for in a market for STRs, and the benefits of using AirDNA to evaluate a market. Finally, Jonathan and John cover his one piece of advice for those interested in STRs and the free course you can find on his website to help you get started.

John Bianchi understands the importance of data in real estate investing and arguably knows more about short-term rental markets than anyone in the business. This episode is a must-listen if you're contemplating entry into the STR world.

In this episode, you will hear:

• How John Bianchi became the Airbnb Data Guy
• The widespread availability of data and its impact on inexperienced investors entering the market
• Operating an Airbnb and why so many new investors fail
• John's interest in short-term rentals and his thoughts on the acquisition of STRs by hotel chains
• Building communities in resort areas, selling to an investor, and the various issues involved in that type of prospect
• His start with arbitrage in Chicago and Scottsdale and why that method isn't for everyone
• Balancing a worst-case scenario with taking action
• Markers John looks for that indicate a good or bad market for STRs
• The benefits of using AirDNA to evaluate a market
• Why high net-worth individuals are buying STRs and not necessarily looking for them to make money
• What John needs to know about someone to find the right market for their STR
• John's one piece of advice for someone who hasn't done short-term rentals but is interested
• His free course on his website that teaches about STRs and the services his company offers

Follow and Review:

We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, we've created a PDF that has all of the key information for you from the episode. Just go to the episode page at https://zenandtheartofrealestateinvesting.com/podcast/219/ to download it.

Supporting Resources:

STR Search - strsearch.com

John Bianchi on YouTube - www.youtube.com/@theairbnbdataguy

Find John on Instagram - www.instagram.com/theairbnbdataguy

Connect with John on LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/john-bianchi-245608a6/

John's TikTok - www.tiktok.com/@theairbnbdataguy

The Bianchi Method - shop.strsearch.com/offers/hoQjGYBG/checkout

Website - www.streamlined.properties

YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos

Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene

Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties

TikTok - www.tiktok.com/@trustgreene

Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/StreamlinedReal

Bigger Pockets - www.biggerpockets.com/users/TrustGreene

Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties

Email - [email protected]

Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.