Episodes

  • In this episode, host Nico dives into the most common mistakes new multifamily investors make and provides actionable strategies to avoid them. Topics include managing emotions versus numbers, accurately estimating expenses like taxes, insurance, and maintenance, the critical role of thorough due diligence, building the right team, and mastering the lending process. With personal stories and lessons learned, Nico shares valuable insights to help you confidently grow your multifamily portfolio.

    Timestamps:
    - 00:00 Introduction: Avoiding Costly Mistakes in Multifamily Deals
    - 00:50 The Importance of Emotional Detachment
    - 03:18 Underestimating Expenses: A Common Pitfall
    - 06:44 Due Diligence: Non-Negotiable Steps
    - 10:26 Building the Right Team
    - 13:35 Starting Small and Learning Fast
    - 14:37 Recap and Final Thoughts
    - 15:26 Bonus Tips on Lending
    - 16:43 Conclusion: Keep Sharpening Those Axes

    Tune in to learn how to avoid costly mistakes and set yourself up for long-term success in multifamily investing!

  • In this episode of the Small Axe Podcast, Nico shares his insights on acquiring multifamily properties without needing a huge upfront investment. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or an experienced investor, Nico dives deep into both traditional and creative financing strategies to help you get into the apartment complex game.

    Key Takeaways:

    1. Getting Started with Traditional Financing

    - Learn about commercial loans for multifamily properties, typically available for buildings with five or more units.

    - Discover why most first-time buyers begin with local banks or credit unions that understand the area and asset class.

    - Nico explains loan options such as 20-30 year amortizations, interest-only payments, and how to shop around for the best rates.

    2. Creative Financing Options

    - If traditional banks don’t work out, explore creative strategies like seller financing, where the seller holds the note.

    - Hear examples of how Nico and other investors negotiate terms like down payments, interest rates, and even deferred payments with seller financing.

    3. Alternative Funding Sources for Down Payments

    - If you don’t have the required down payment, there are several ways to raise it, including joint ventures, partnerships, retirement accounts, and tapping into home equity.

    - Understand how syndications work, where you can raise capital from limited partners to fund a portion or even the entire deal.

    4. Exploring Non-Traditional Financing Techniques

    - Find out about master lease agreements, loan assumptions, and the benefits and risks of using these methods to structure a deal when traditional bank loans aren’t feasible.

    5. Joint Ventures and Partnerships

    - Nico discusses the importance of partnering with people who align with your goals and values, particularly in joint ventures where all parties are active in the deal.

    Resources Mentioned:

    - *Creative Cash* by Bill Ham – A book on structuring deals creatively, which helped Nico understand and apply creative financing strategies in multifamily investing.

    Quotes:

    - "It’s possible to get into your first apartment complex without a ton of cash if you’re open to exploring different financing methods."

    - "When structuring a deal, make sure to align with your partners and carefully consider each financing option."

    Action Steps:

    1. Evaluate your available financing options for multifamily investing, starting with traditional bank loans.

    2. Research creative financing techniques like seller financing and master lease agreements.

    3. Think about potential partnerships or joint ventures for raising a down payment.

    4. Start building relationships with community banks and credit unions for better financing terms.

    Want More Help?

    Visit www.smallaxecommunities.com to listen to more episodes of the *Small Axe Podcast* and explore resources that can help you sharpen your multifamily investing skills!

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  • In this episode, Nico from the Small Axe Communities explains the various ways multifamily investors, specifically General Partners (GP) and Limited Partners (LP), get paid. Nico discusses the income sources for GPs, including acquisition fees, asset management fees, capital event fees, and disposition fees, offering practical insights from personal experiences. The episode also covers how LPs earn returns based on their investments, typically receiving an 8% preferred annual return, paid monthly, prior to any GP profits. Additionally, it touches on profit splits when returns exceed the preferred rate and the structure of 'waterfall' payouts. Listeners are encouraged to understand deal structures thoroughly and to reach out for further advice, concluding with a call to action for sharing and reviewing the show.

    00:00 Introduction to Multifamily Investing

    00:41 Understanding General Partnerships

    01:08 The Role of Acquisition Fees

    01:58 Justifying Acquisition Fees

    04:02 Asset Management Fees Explained

    05:01 Challenges in Asset Management

    06:03 General Partners' Compensation Breakdown

    08:14 Limited Partners' Earnings Explained

    09:42 Preferred Returns and Incentives

    11:22 Waterfall Structures in Deals

    11:50 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

    12:00 Closing Remarks and Gratitude

  • In this episode, Nico from Small Axe Communities discusses strategies to secure a multifamily real estate deal. He emphasizes three key elements: money, expertise, and network. Nico explains how having capital simplifies the process, but if you lack funds, you must have the expertise or a robust network to find and manage deals. He addresses various roles within a real estate team, such as asset managers, capital raisers, and deal finders, and underscores the importance of aligning skill sets with team needs. Nico also highlights the value of building long-term relationships and maintaining a collaborative attitude to succeed in multifamily real estate ventures. Finally, he encourages listeners to share this valuable information and offers guidance to those interested in joining a partnership.

    00:00 Introduction and Show Purpose

    00:41 Key Elements for Getting a Deal

    01:09 Importance of Money, Expertise, and Network

    01:53 Roles and Expertise in Multifamily Projects

    02:49 Building Your Value in a Team

    03:38 Case Study: Partner Expertise

    04:26 Building Trust in Partnerships

    04:56 Identifying Your Expertise

    05:21 The Power of Deal Finding

    05:52 Negotiating and Team Building

    06:19 Key Traits for Success

    07:58 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

  • In this episode, Nico from the Small Axe Communities breaks down the essentials of passive investing, placing a strong emphasis on multifamily real estate syndications. He elaborates on the different roles within syndications, such as limited and general partners, and highlights the importance of a solid grasp of real estate fundamentals. The narrative covers strategic steps for becoming a successful passive investor, including the recommended capital requirements and long-term growth strategies. Additionally, the episode explores the broader context of various passive investments—like stocks, bonds, and crypto—emphasizing the consistent financial growth achievable through diversified portfolios. Listeners are encouraged to persistently refine their investment approaches, thoroughly vet opportunities, and seek expert advice to make informed decisions. The discussion concludes with a call to action for continuous learning and active engagement in building investment knowledge.

    00:00 Introduction to Passive Investing

    00:44 Understanding Passive Real Estate Investing

    02:00 Roles in Real Estate Syndication

    03:41 Essential Knowledge for Passive Investors

    04:57 Financial Requirements for Passive Investing

    05:57 Setting Passive Investment Goals

    07:50 Vetting and Monitoring Investments

    08:43 The Reality of Passive Investment Returns

    09:22 Long-Term Investment Goals

    09:46 The Importance of Keeping Your Money Active

    12:09 Understanding Passive vs. Active Investing

    13:33 The Necessity of Passive Investing

    15:09 Final Thoughts and Recommendations

  • Here’s an enhanced version of the show notes for your Libsyn episode with a strong call to action:

    ---

    **Top 5 Reasons Why NOW is the Best Time to Invest in Multifamily Real Estate**

    In this episode, host Nico Salgado breaks down the **top five reasons** why today’s market presents an **exceptional opportunity** for multifamily real estate investors. Whether you’re just getting started or are looking to expand your portfolio, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you capitalize on current conditions.

    **Key Takeaways:**
    - 📉 **Reduced Competition**: Fewer investors in the market means more opportunities for you to find great deals.
    - 🏠 **Discounted Properties**: Learn how rising interest rates are leading to motivated sellers and undervalued properties.
    - 💸 **Hedge Against Inflation**: Multifamily real estate is a powerful tool to protect your wealth as inflation rises.
    - 💰 **Passive Income**: Discover how you can start earning while you sleep by investing in cash-flowing properties.
    - 📈 **Long-Term Appreciation**: Real estate continues to build wealth over time—stay committed and reap the rewards!

    Nico shares practical tips on sticking to the numbers and avoiding emotional decisions, highlighting the importance of a long-term mindset for wealth-building success.

    ---

    ⏱ **Timestamps:**
    00:00 Introduction to Today's Episode
    00:52 Reason 1: Lower Competition
    04:01 Reason 2: Discounted Properties
    09:14 Reason 3: Hedge Against Inflation
    09:51 Reason 4: Passive Income Opportunities
    12:16 Reason 5: Appreciation
    14:19 Final Thoughts and Tips
    17:22 Conclusion and Call to Action

    ---

    💥 **Ready to take the next step?** Join our community of like-minded investors at [www.smallaxecommunities.com](http://www.smallaxecommunities.com) to start sharpening your investing skills and build your real estate legacy. Together, we can turn this market into an opportunity for success. Let’s keep pushing forward and growing wealth, one deal at a time!

    #RealEstateInvesting #MultifamilyRealEstate #PassiveIncome #SmallAxeCommunity #WealthBuilding #RealEstateOpportunities #InvestSmart

    ---

    This version provides more engaging language, stronger value propositions, and a compelling call to action with your website link to encourage community growth.

  • In this episode, Nico from the Small Axe community discusses how to structure partnerships for new multifamily property deals. Whether deciding between a joint venture or a syndication, the structure often involves a standard equity split, typically 70% for investors and 30% for management. Nico provides insight into how these allocations work, including a detailed breakdown of the equity split bucket system and the importance of each role, such as asset management and capital raising. Nico also emphasizes the necessity of precise legal documents and operating agreements tailored to each deal to safeguard against potential issues. An equity split spreadsheet is available by request to help implement these strategies effectively.

    00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Episode

    00:41 Starting the Partnership Discussion

    01:25 Equity Split and Partnership Structure

    04:40 Detailed Breakdown of Equity Buckets

    07:01 Adjusting Buckets Based on Deal Specifics

    14:23 Legal Documents and Final Thoughts

    16:36 Conclusion and Call to Action

  • Five Steps to Owning 194 Apartments in 12 Months

    In this episode, Nico of the Small Axe community shares his journey from owning no apartments to closing on a 194-unit apartment complex within 12 months. He provides a detailed five-step framework to achieve similar success. The steps include realizing the importance of teamwork, continuous education, finding mentors, relentless networking, and taking action. Nico emphasizes the necessity of being genuine during networking and the value of taking risks to gain significant rewards. He also recounts his experiences and the key role of mentorship in his real estate journey.

    00:00 Introduction: From Zero to 194 Apartments

    00:59 Step 1: Realization - You Can't Do It Alone

    03:19 Step 2: Education - The Key to Success

    04:57 Step 3: Mentorship - Finding the Right Guidance

    07:06 Step 4: Networking - Building Your Team

    10:55 Step 5: Taking Action - Making It Happen

    14:47 Conclusion: Recap and Final Thoughts

  • In this episode, Nico provides a comprehensive guide for deal finders and hunters at all experience levels to acquire multifamily properties. Key topics include the importance of loving the search, narrowing down your market and deal criteria, utilizing various resources like LoopNet, MLS, Crexi, and establishing broker relationships. Additionally, the episode covers direct-to-seller strategies, cold calling, leveraging partnerships, attending meetups, and maintaining a consistent, positive communication approach with brokers to ensure success in securing deals.

    00:00 Introduction: Finding Your First Multifamily Deal

    00:42 The Love for Deal Hunting

    01:14 Choosing and Researching Your Market

    02:33 Searching for Deals: MLS, LoopNet, and More

    04:22 Solidifying Your Deal Criteria

    08:23 Building Broker Relationships

    09:44 Direct to Seller Strategies

    11:20 Networking and Community Involvement

    16:40 The Importance of Consistent Communication

    19:05 Final Tips and Encouragement

  • In this episode, Nico discusses powerful real estate investing strategies specifically in the multifamily sector. He covers syndications, explaining how pooling resources allows larger real estate acquisitions, and the benefits for both active and passive investors. Nico also introduces the BRRRR (Buy, Renovate, Rent, Refinance, Repeat) strategy, highlighting its applicability to multifamily real estate and how it can be integrated with syndications. The episode concludes with insights into remote investing, stressing the importance of having a reliable local partner and active involvement for success.

  • In this episode of the 'Small Axe Community,' host Nico discusses strategies and insights for building a multifamily real estate portfolio despite current market challenges. He covers recent data on housing construction, vacancy rates, and housing affordability, particularly in Lakeland, Florida. Nico and his guest discuss the impact of interest rates on new developments and the rental market, emphasizing the importance of cash flow, understanding property conditions, and maintaining broker relationships. Nico concludes with a positive outlook for the multifamily sector, suggesting that disciplined and consistent investors will ultimately succeed.

  • Navigating the Multifamily Real Estate Market in 2024

    In this episode, Nico delves into the complexities of the multifamily real estate market as of 2024. He discusses the shift from dealing with old brokers to new brokers, the challenges of high property prices, and the difficulties in managing and renting out units. Nico shares his personal strategies on underwriting, dealing with inflated prices, and the importance of realistic cash flow projections. He emphasizes the significance of sticking to sound investments and not being swayed by overly optimistic proforma figures. Listeners are encouraged to reach out for help with underwriting and to stay cautious in a highly competitive market.

    00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Show

    00:37 Challenges in the Multifamily Market

    03:20 Current Market Strategies

    04:12 Broker Relationships and New Opportunities

    07:43 Navigating Today's Market

    09:33 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

  • This episode highlights the advantages of investing in multifamily real estate from the perspective of a newbie. Nico discusses owning apartment buildings and the benefits of having multiple tenants reduce vacancy risks compared to single-family properties. He explains that tenants' rent payments cover the mortgage, increasing equity and allowing rent hikes with inflation and population growth. The concept of syndication is introduced, where individuals pool resources to buy properties they can't afford individually, offering passive investors a chance to earn returns without managing the property. Nico emphasizes the importance of thorough deal evaluation and the efficiency of owning multiple properties.

  • In this episode, Nico discusses the current challenges and strategies in the real estate market, specifically focusing on multifamily properties. He highlights the prolonged leasing periods, higher vacancy rates, and the need for realistic underwriting. Nico shares his experiences with his own portfolio of 70 units in Florida, emphasizing the importance of adjusting expectations for rent increases, accounting for higher expenses, and the critical role of thorough market analysis. The episode also covers practical tips for managing properties, such as maintenance plans and different financing strategies to ensure cash flow. Listeners are encouraged to stay educated and persistently search for viable deals.

  • This episode is dedicated to guiding individuals on using small steps to build personal financial success. John Casmon shares a personal story of facing job insecurity leading to a strategic pivot in his career. He discusses helping investors raise capital, build businesses, and transition from traditional jobs to entrepreneurship. Key topics include the importance of taking action, the pitfalls of traditional money-raising efforts, the value of mentorship, and the continuous demand for multifamily investments. Emphasis is placed on mindset, the necessity of direct help from experienced coaches, and making community impacts. The closing message encourages listeners to keep improving their skills and take decisive actions for personal growth.

  • In this episode of the Small Axe Podcast, host Nico interviews Sean D. Martell from Takeoff Capital. Sean shares his journey from being an air traffic controller in the Navy and FAA to becoming a successful real estate investor. The conversation covers his initial investments in multifamily properties, such as a profitable project in Indianapolis, and progresses to his current focus on developing infill multifamily units in San Diego using new density bonus programs. Sean also discusses the benefits and challenges of shifting from value-add investments to new developments, touching on financing strategies and the market dynamics of areas like San Diego. The episode provides valuable insights for aspiring real estate investors, emphasizing the importance of due diligence, long-term planning, and adapting to market conditions.

  • In this episode of the Small Axe Podcast, host Nico Salgado sits down with real estate investor Randy Langenderfer to discuss creating a 10-year plan towards becoming a full-time real estate investor. Join them as they dive into the strategies, mindset shifts, and practical steps needed to turn your real estate investing aspirations into a reality. Whether you're just starting out or looking to level up your investment game, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable advice to help you achieve your financial goals through real estate.

  • Welcome to the Small Axe Podcast! In this episode, host Nico Salgado is joined by multifamily real estate expert Emeka Ogbonna for a deep dive into acquisitions and operations in the industry. Tune in as they share invaluable insights and strategies from the trenches, providing you with all you need to know about multifamily acquisitions and operations 101. Whether you're a seasoned investor or just starting out, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you navigate the world of real estate investing.

  • In this episode of the Small Axe Podcast, host Nico Salgado sits down with entrepreneur and investor Alex Tam to discuss the intricacies of actively investing while managing multiple businesses. Join them as they share insights, tips, and strategies on how to navigate the world of investments while balancing a busy entrepreneurial lifestyle. Whether you're a seasoned investor or just starting out, this conversation is sure to provide valuable guidance on optimizing your investment approaches.