Raising Private Money with Jay Conner Jay Conner

Mason McDonald, once deeply entrenched in the healthcare industry, found liberation and financial success in an unexpected venture: real estate investment. His professional life took a dramatic turn when the pressures and dissatisfaction of his hospital executive job spurred him to explore real estate, an interest sparked by his family's background in the industry. Mason's story is not just about change; it's about strategic and bold decision-making, taking a calculated risk with just $60 and a course on land flipping, leading to significant professional and personal growth as discussed in a gripping episode with Jay Conner on the "Raising Private Money" podcast.
Why Invest in Land?
Choosing land over other forms of real estate investment might seem unconventional to some. However, Mason outlined compelling reasons for his focus during the podcast. The barriers to entry are relatively lower, and the tax advantages are particularly appealing. Land is treated differently concerning taxes – something akin to handling inventory, allowing for particular benefits that traditional real estate doesn't provide. Moreover, raw land offers diverse exit strategies – from simple sales to more complex developments, which can provide significant returns without the complications that buildings might entail.
The Mechanics of Land Deals and Marketing
One of the reasons Mason has been able to succeed where others hesitate is his innovative approach to handling and closing deals. During the episode, he explains the utilization of creative strategies to keep capital investment low, especially with thin-margin deals. This not only requires creativity but a deep understanding of the market and potential of the land involved. Additionally, his approach to selling through a realtor simplifies the process, allowing him to focus on acquiring more properties.
Direct mail marketing emerges as a crucial strategy in Mason’s toolkit. With a typical response rate of around 1%, the focus is on frequency and follow-up. Mason stresses the importance of quick, persistent communication to build trust and close deals – a tactic that facilitates higher success rates in the highly competitive real estate market.
Raising Capital and Community Building
Mason's journey into land investments was initially self-funded, but as the scale of his operations grew, so did his methods for financing. Turning to private money, raised through friends, family, and network connections, offered a new lifeline. These funds not only fuelled his business but also allowed him to offer high returns to his investors, fostering a community of mutual benefits. This shift not only highlights the necessity of adaptable financing strategies in real estate but also showcases his commitment to communal growth, edifying potential investors through podcasts, social media, and personal interactions.
Educational Impact and Future Prospects
Besides being a successful investor, Mason dedicates part of his career to coaching upcoming real estate enthusiasts. His educational programs focus on joint ventures in land flipping, equipping new investors with the knowledge and tools required to navigate this niche market. Technologies like PropStream and Pebble CRM play a significant role in Mason's operational strategy, illustrating the integration of modern tools into traditional investment avenues.
Conclusion: Taking Risks and Making Profits
As Mason McDonald’s narrative unfolds, it's clear that his real estate venture is more than about making money; it’s about transformation, calculated risk-taking, and investing in oneself. The risks he took have not only paved the way for his financial freedom but have also inspired many to reconsider their professional paths. His emphasis on deserving the rewards from taking these risks resonates deeply, particularly for those standing at the crossroads of career cha

In a recent episode of the Raising Private Money podcast, Jay Conner, a seasoned real estate investor, had an enlightening conversation with Mustafa Ladha, a guest with a proven track record in property investment. The discussion provided a deep understanding of the strategies that real estate investors can use to raise private money, particularly focusing on education and adding value to attract investors.
Building Wealth with Strategic Real Estate Investing:
Mustafa Ladha's journey from pharma to property illustrates a strategic move many are considering: shifting gears into real estate for its recession-resistant properties and scalability. Veloce Capital, the private real estate investment firm Ladha represents, offers tailored investment strategies that align with investors' specific financial goals, from generating monthly income to long-term wealth accumulation.
The Magic of HELOCs and Arbitrage:
Jay Conner introduced the concept of utilizing Home Equity Lines of Credit (HELOCs) as an arbitrage tool. By drawing on the equity in one's home and investing that capital into real estate, one can potentially experience an infinite rate of return—a concept that may seem daunting but is made accessible with the right insights and strategies.
The Power of Education in Investment Attraction:
A pervasive theme in this episode was the importance of leading with education. Mustafa and Jay discussed how raising over $20 million in private money was made possible through establishing trust and addressing investors' concerns head-on. By creating informative content and offering value upfront, investors are more likely to commit their funds since they're making informed decisions rather than being pressured into a deal.
Networking and Fundraising in the Digital Age:
Mustafa Ladha shared his success in using WhatsApp for fundraising, highlighting how he joined networking groups on the platform to discuss investment opportunities. This innovative approach to attracting private money underscores the potential of utilizing social media and messaging apps for financial networking. By understanding the mentality of the groups he engaged with and offering them real value, Ladha was able to scale his investment strategies and attract serious capital.
Alternative Investment Vehicles:
Throughout the discussion, the use of self-directed IRAs and life insurance policies as investment vehicles were examined. These methods provide additional ways for investors to participate in the real estate market, with Jay Conner offering insights into how to lean into these often-overlooked options.
Instilling Confidence in Potential Investors:
The narrative of projecting confidence was especially crucial. Mustafa Ladha emphasized the "fake it till you make it" approach, not to mislead, but rather to convey an unyielding belief in the value of the investment opportunities presented. Confidence, combined with a solid understanding of the real estate market, makes it easier for investors to identify and engage in viable deals.
Cultivating Long-lasting Investor Relationships:
The importance of not appearing desperate but instead focusing on the service aspect of investment opportunity was echoed repeatedly. This approach fosters long-term relationships based on trust and added value. Mustafa and Jay agreed that there's an abundance of capital available; the challenge is finding deals that are worthy of investment.
Investment Philosophy: 
"I don't need the money. But if you invest with me, we'll all make money together, and it'll be a great example of how we can all scale together."
Mustafa Ladha
10 Questions Covered in this Episode:
1. How do HELOCs (Home Equity Line of Credit) provide an opportunity for arbitrage in real estate, and why

Randy Langenderfer, an experienced multifamily real estate investor, joined Jay Conner on the Raising Private Money podcast to share his wisdom on creating passive income through multifamily investing. His strategic transition from corporate life to financial independence is an inspiring journey for anyone dreaming of a similar life change.


Navigating the Shift: Corporate to Multifamily Investing
Randy Langenderfer detailed his deliberate exit plan from the corporate world, aiming for financial freedom by 2023. This plan set the stage for his foray into multifamily property investments, considering the substantial equity necessary to enter the game. Securing $650-700k by himself, Randy triumphed in raising a total of $3.63 million for a property in Beaumont, Texas, catalyzing his journey into scaling investments through others' capital.


Leveraging Private Money: The Syndication Strategy
Jay Conner and Randy delved into the mechanics of using private money to scale a real estate business. Randy expounded on the power of syndication in multifamily investments, clarifying the roles of limited and general partners. Similar to single-family investments where the investor plays the general partner role with private lenders as passive investors, Randy highlighted the advantage of pooling resources and know-how to achieve common investment goals.


Starting With Trust: Finding Your First Investors
One of the keystones to scaling in real estate is other people's money, and Randy's first advocates were his friends and family. This kickstarted his fundraising, eventually turning to a broader audience. The significance of shifting the mindset to be open to this form of capital is crucial for growth, a sentiment echoed by both Randy and Jay.


Education as a Tool: Multifamily Maestros Program
Randy discussed “Multifamily Maestros,” a mentorship initiative designed to guide budding investors. The program offers a comprehensive starting point with 12 modules, weekly coaching calls, and personalized support. Its 30-day trial at $197 suggests a commitment to accessibility and education in investment, fostering new talent in the industry.


The Art of Investment: Insights Behind "Maestros"
Understanding the name "Maestros" gave depth to Randy's educational approach. The term reflects a mastery of craft and an orchestration of skill, mirroring the program's intent to harmonize various dimensions of multifamily investing.


Strategic Networking: Building an Investor Base
Randy emphasized the importance of establishing oneself as an industry thought leader to attract investors. It's critical to leverage social media, develop efficient pitch decks, and most importantly, sustain long-term relationships that lead to trust and commitment in future projects.


Leading With Value: The Education-First Approach
Jay Conner shared his success story in single-family investment by prioritizing education over immediate deals. He highlighted the importance of informing potential investors about options such as self-directed IRAs, setting the stage for informed partnership decisions. Both hosts agreed that education leads to empowered investors and healthier business relationships.


The Future of Private Money in Real Estate
This episode was more than a mere conversation; it was a blueprint for those seeking to build wealth through multifamily investing. By embracing private money, cultivating relationships, and prioritizing education, real estate investing can indeed become a cornerstone of one's financial independence. Randy's insights provided a road map for new and seasoned investors alike, making this episode a pivotal listen for anyone interested in unlocking the potential of the multifamily market.

In the latest episode of the Raising Private Money Podcast, host Jay Conner sits down with real estate maven Dwan Bent Twyford to delve into the intricacies of raising private money in a volatile market. Dwan, a single mother turned real estate powerhouse, brings her wealth of experience, having raised over $1 million in private funds, written best-selling books, and completed upwards of 2,000 real estate deals. 
Private vs. Hard Money: A Lender's Perspective
Understanding the distinction between hard money and private money is crucial for real estate investors. During the episode, Dwan elucidates the benefits of private money, emphasizing its flexible terms and longer duration in comparison to hard money loans. This segment serves as a primer on why private money often trumps hard money, especially when considering the sometimes predatory nature of hard money lending practices.
Digital Outreach and the Power of Presence
An essential aspect of Dwan's success lies in her online engagement. She discusses maintaining a robust presence across diverse platforms, from Facebook to TikTok, directing listeners to her all-encompassing resource, www.dwanderful.com. Her advice is clear: leverage digital tools to extend your influence and accessibility in the real estate realm.
The Town Revitalization Blueprint
Dwan's transformative work extends beyond individual properties to revitalizing entire towns. She recounts the metamorphosis of a once-flourishing town impacted by industrial decline. By acquiring emptied buildings and collaborating with local stakeholders, she and her partner sparked a resurgence of community events and businesses, thereby enhancing property values. This practical case study exemplifies how strategic real estate investment can alter the landscape of a town.
Mentorship: The Key to Investor Growth
Aspiring real estate investors glean invaluable wisdom from Twyford's emphasis on mentorship. Having a seasoned guide can safeguard novices from pitfalls and accelerate their growth. In an industry where experience speaks volumes, Dwan advocates for finding a mentor to learn the ropes effectively.
Opportunity Amidst Market Uncertainty
Dwan breaks down how even in less-than-ideal market conditions, opportunities for profit remain, particularly when dealing with distressed properties like foreclosures. There's never a shortage of deals for investors diligent enough to seek them out, and with more money circulating post-COVID, access to funds is less of a barrier to entry than one might assume.
The Advantage of Becoming a Private Lender
The conversation with Dwan also highlights the attractiveness of becoming a private lender in the real estate market. With potential returns that outpace conventional investment options, savvy individuals are moving their funds into the space. This section reveals just how lucrative stepping into the role of a lender can be, especially when compared to parking money in traditional retirement accounts.
Twyford's Real Estate Journey and Vision
Exploring Twyford's venture from rehabbing houses to owning rental properties, listeners gain perspective on her progression in the industry. Furthermore, her ambition shines through in her endeavors to refurbish historical buildings for new commercial usage, adding a layer of community revitalization to her investment activities.
Conclusion: Inviting Change, Inviting Success
Dwan's story is a testament to the transformative power of real estate investment, both financially and communally. By placing "people before profits," she has carved out a legacy that benefits not only her bottom line but the lives of those touched by her work. This podcast offers a profound insight into private money's role in today's uncertain market and the boundless potential it holds for determined investors. 

The digital age has transformed the real estate industry, opening new avenues for investors to find those all-important motivated sellers. In a recent episode of the Raising Private Money Podcast, digital marketing expert Brandon Bateman, founder of Bateman Collective, joined host Jay Conner to discuss effective strategies for real estate investors. Specializing in online lead generation, Brandon's insights reveal tactics to allocate budgets and target geographic areas to maximize return on investment (ROI) through Pay-Per-Click (PPC) campaigns.


Crafting Budget Strategies for PPC Campaigns
Underpinning any successful digital marketing initiative is a sound budget strategy. According to Brandon, it's vital to consider budget allocation over a six-month period to allow PPC campaigns sufficient time to optimize and gather meaningful data. He warns against high budgets over short timeframes and suggests sustainable investments for at least half a year. Market size plays a crucial role, as smaller markets may not require hefty budgets, and overinvestment can lead to inflated ad costs. Brandon's company tailors its approach based on client goals, recommending specific channels like Google and Facebook to dovetail with market performance.


The Role of SEO in Long-Term Lead Generation
When it comes to long-term growth, Search Engine Optimization (SEO) stands out as a strategy with potentially the best ROI. While SEO leads aren't instantaneous like those from PPC, they are earned through diligent optimization and can prove highly valuable over time. Jay Conner and Brandon delved into this, discussing the patient, strategic game of SEO and how it fits into a diversified marketing strategy for real estate investors.


The Power of Data-Driven Decisions
Bateman Collective's success hinges on a data-driven approach. The company shuns predictions, instead making marketing decisions based on real-world channel performance. This empowers clients to invest in digital marketing without guarantees of a specific number of leads—an approach divergent from the pay-per-lead model, but one that can build more sustainable long-term growth. Clients typically start with monthly investments ranging from $3,250 to $15,000, scaling as required, and these budgets are tailored to the client's objectives and the market conditions.



Navigating PPC and Pay Per Lead
PPC campaigns enable businesses to directly own their data and strategy, a contrast to buying leads from third parties. Brandon underscores that while pay-per-lead might tempt with its simplicity, the quality of leads can differ drastically, and it doesn't grant the control or data ownership that PPC offers. Moreover, utilizing PPC correctly demands specific expertise, leading many businesses to consider outsourcing this aspect of their marketing.


The Art of Lead Generation and Campaign Optimization
PPC, pay-per-lead, and SEO have distinctive roles in marketing, depending on the needs and goals of a business. For those looking to generate motivated seller leads through digital channels, it's crucial to employ the right tools and techniques. Bateman Collective's service suite includes ad creation, targeting, budget management, and leading up to the point of lead generation. After that, the client takes over. This synopsis also hints at optimizing campaigns based on lead feedback, ensuring continuous improvement in lead quality.


Channel Selection: Google vs. Microsoft vs. Facebook
The conversation with Brandon Bateman highlighted the importance of selecting the right platform for PPC campaigns. Google reigns supreme in volume, but Microsoft platforms like Bing offer cost-effective alternatives with lower volume. Facebook's targeting capabilities allow for reaching a broad audience and can be compared to mode

In the world of real estate investing, achieving financial success often hinges on the ability to skillfully navigate the complex arena of private funding and creative financing. Melanie and Dave Dupuis have mastered this art, acquiring over 240 apartments across multiple countries, notably without deploying their initial capital or forging joint venture partnerships. Today’s podcast hosted by Jay Conner sheds light on the diligent craftsmanship of real estate deals by this power couple.
Crafting Calculated Improvements
Dave Dupuis delves into the nuances of enhancing properties–a blend of minor cosmetic changes that significantly raise appreciation while carefully weighing the potential risks, such as increased vacancy rates tied to raised rents. His precision in projecting expenses illustrates the critical balance between improvement costs and rental price upticks.
Embracing the Mathematical Approach
The host, alongside Melanie and Dave, unearths the analytical framework essential in real estate investment. They collectively underscore the irreplaceable role of arithmetical strategies over emotional decision-making, crafting a pathway where clear logic and numbers craft success.
Building Relationships in Financing
The couple's journey to amassing their impressive portfolio started with their initial approach to raising private money, where they proposed mutually beneficial deals. They stress the importance of secure terms for lenders, articulating their practice in navigating owner financing, private and registered funds, and promissory notes.
Strategies for Growth and Stability
Melanie and Dave's philosophy revolves around deal-specific methodologies and stabilizing properties post-growth. Their 'buy, renovate, rent, refinance, repeat' (BRRR) strategy underscores the need for thoughtful exit strategies, illustrating their savvy and systemic approach to building a diverse and profitable real estate portfolio.
Social Media and Education
With a burgeoning social media presence exceeding 700,000 followers, the Dupuis duo harnesses these platforms to share their intellectual capital. They advocate the indispensability of networking, consistency, and educating oneself through meetups and actionable content, as found in their thoughtful book 'iLoveOPM' and free videos offering real estate investing insights.
Conclusion: A Call for Action and Engagement
The episode wraps up on an encouraging note, with Jay Conner inviting listeners to engage with content through various mediums and promoting his 'Raising Private Money' show. Melanie and Dave's parting wisdom is a clarion call to adopt the right mindset, pursue education, and take the actionable steps necessary to create wealth and realize real estate ambitions.
Real Estate Networking Tips: 
"There's always things that you can go to to start learning for free. Start having conversations. You're going to meet property managers there who might have clients who are looking to liquidate. You might meet other owners that are possibly looking at selling and maybe their kids or their beneficiaries are not interested. You might be able to pick things up."
               -Dave Dupuis
10 Lessons Covered in this Episode:
1. Embrace Owner Financing: Utilizing property owners for financing can lead to win-win scenarios, deferring taxes and earning interest.
2. Develop Exit Strategies: Before using others' money, establish solid exit plans to ensure everyone gets paid back in due time.
3. Stabilize After Growth: Following an acquisition spree, take time to reposition and stabilize the properties before pursuing more growth.
4. Simple Ownership Model: Favour one-off deals for simplicity instead of complex syndications, allowing for full ownership and control.