Raising the Flipping Bar with Derek Marlin

Derek Marlin
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Raising The Flipping Bar is the masterclass for real estate investors of all levels looking to make more money with property redevelopment (aka Fix & Flips), and real estate investing overall. Join Derek Marlin, expert real estate investor, as he brings actionable advice to help you make more money, avoid expensive mistakes, and scale your business with a growth mindset. We’ll talk about the good, the bad, and everything in between as it relates to Fix & Flips and real estate investing overall.  On Raising The Flipping Bar, you can expect to hear Derek Marlin share the in-depth strategies his team has used to Fix & Flip 80+ homes in Denver, CO along with 115 door apartment complexes in Cincinnati Ohio. Season one includes interviews with key team members and other successful investors that will reveal the secrets you’ve been looking for to get started in flipping or take your investment business to the next level.  If you’ve been looking for education, collaboration, and community in the Fix & Flip space, Raising The Flipping Bar with Derek Marlin is the podcast for you!

  1. Private Money Lending Explained: How Smart Investors Win in 2026

    JAN 8

    Private Money Lending Explained: How Smart Investors Win in 2026

    Welcome back to Raising the Flipping Bar. In this episode, I wanted to slow things down and talk about something that’s coming up more and more in my day-to-day conversations — private money lending. As we head into 2026, deal flow isn’t the problem. The real challenge is being properly capitalized and structuring deals in a way that protects downside while still creating strong returns. That’s where private money comes in. I break down exactly what private money lending is, how it’s different from hard money, and why it’s becoming such an important piece of the puzzle for both operators and investors. We talk real numbers, real structures, real risks — and how to do this the right way. Whether you’re flipping houses, wholesaling, lending capital, or sitting on cash wondering how to put it to work, this episode is meant to give you clarity and a framework you can actually use. In this episode, I cover: 💰 What private money lending really is — and what it isn’t  🏦 The difference between private money and hard money  📊 Typical interest rates, deal structures, and timelines  🧱 How private money is secured and why asset-backed lending matters  ⚠️ The real risks involved and how to mitigate them  📉 Why distressed opportunities are starting to show up again  🔑 First position vs. second position lending explained  🔄 Exit strategies every private money lender should understand  📈 Why velocity of money matters just as much as yield  🏗️ How operators and private lenders can win together long-term  🧠 Who private money lending makes sense for heading into 2026 If you’re a real estate investor, business owner, high-income professional, or someone looking to diversify outside of traditional stocks and bonds, this episode will help you think more clearly about risk, structure, and opportunity. Connect with me and ELEVATION LinkedIn (Derek): /derekmarlin  ELEVATION Website: https://elevationinvest.com LinkedIn (ELEVATION): /elevationinvestmentproperties  Instagram (ELEVATION): /elevationinvest  Facebook (ELEVATION): /elevationinvestmentproperties 🎧 Subscribe to Raising the Flipping Bar Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3ByYmxv Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3WbUCeQ YouTube: /@elevationrealestateinvesting Hashtags #PrivateMoneyLending #RealEstateInvesting #HardMoney #LeveragedInvesting  #FixAndFlip #RealEstateFinance #WealthBuilding  #DenverRealEstate #ElevationInvesting #RaisingTheFlippingBar  #PrivateCapital #DistressedProperties #2026Investing

    33 min
  2. Why Most Goals Fail — And How to Build a 2026 Plan That Actually Works

    12/11/2025

    Why Most Goals Fail — And How to Build a 2026 Plan That Actually Works

    Welcome back to Raising the Flipping Bar! In this episode, Derek Marlin breaks down the exact goal-setting framework he uses to dominate each year — especially in tougher markets like we’re facing going into 2026. Instead of vague resolutions or soft targets, Derek dives into the “More, Better, New” system, how to build a real buy box, why most goals fail, and how to create a plan you can actually execute on with discipline, clarity, and extreme ownership. This episode blends personal story, practical systems, and investor-level strategy to help you level up your business, your mindset, and your results — whether you're flipping, wholesaling, lending, or building long-term wealth. In this episode we cover: 🔥 Why 2026 requires higher standards, not more wishes 📦 How to build a Buy Box that removes emotion from investing 📈 Derek’s “More, Better, New” framework for setting smarter goals 🧠 Why vague goals fail — and how to avoid “new year burnout” 💼 The importance of discipline, cadence, and external accountability ❤️ Derek’s personal 2026 goals: family, health, business, and legacy 🔍 How to break big ambitions into weekly, executable actions 🏆 What it really takes to build a year you can win consistently If you’re a real estate investor, business owner, agent, creator, or anyone who wants 2026 to be intentional and productive — this episode will help you build a plan worth following and a mindset capable of executing it. Connect with Derek Marlin and ELEVATION! LinkedIn (Derek): /derekmarlin ELEVATION Website: https://elevationinvest.com LinkedIn (ELEVATION): /elevationinvestmentproperties Instagram (ELEVATION): /elevationinvest Facebook (ELEVATION): /elevationinvestmentproperties 🎧 Subscribe to “Raising the Flipping Bar” Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3ByYmxv Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3WbUCeQ YouTube: /@elevationrealestateinvesting #RealEstateInvesting #GoalSetting2026 #RealEstateBusiness #InvestorMindset #MoreBetterNew #BuyBox #Discipline #FixAndFlip #BusinessPlanning #EntrepreneurLife #DenverRealEstate #ElevationInvesting #RaisingTheFlippingBar #WealthBuilding #SuccessHabits #MindsetMatters

    31 min
  3. Undersatnding the Capital Stack- With Jesse From Indicate Capital

    11/28/2025

    Undersatnding the Capital Stack- With Jesse From Indicate Capital

    Welcome back to Raising the Flipping Bar! In this episode, Derek Marlin sits down with Jesse from Indicate Capital — a seasoned lender with deep experience in construction, commercial mortgage banking, and private real estate finance. Jesse breaks down how the capital stack really works, what today’s lending environment looks like, and the biggest mistakes investors make when structuring deals. From market insights to risk management, this episode is packed with real-world lessons that can help you fund smarter, negotiate better, and protect your profits. In this episode we cover: 💰 How private lending works in today’s market 🏗️ What the “capital stack” actually is (and why it matters) 📉 Common mistakes flippers make with budgets + timelines 🏦 How Indicate Capital evaluates deals and manages risk 📈 What types of projects perform best under $1M right now 🧠 How better communication with lenders can save your deal If you’re a real estate investor, flipper, agent, or anyone looking to understand how money flows through a deal, this episode will give you the clarity and confidence to level up your investing strategy. Connect with Derek Marlin and ELEVATION! Derek on LinkedIn: /derekmarlin ELEVATION’s website: https://elevationinvest.com ELEVATION on LinkedIn: /elevationinvestmentproperties ELEVATION on Instagram: /elevationinvest ELEVATION on Facebook: /elevationinvestmentproperties 🎧 Subscribe to “Raising the Flipping Bar” Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3ByYmxv Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3WbUCeQ 📺 Watch on YouTube: /@elevationrealestateinvesting #RealEstateInvesting #PrivateLending #HardMoneyLoans #CapitalStack #RealEstateFinance #DealFunding #FlippingHouses #FixAndFlip #InvestorTips #BusinessStrategy #ElevationInvesting #RaisingTheFlippingBar #WealthBuilding #RealEstateTips #DenverRealEstate

    46 min
  4. Game-Changing Real Estate Strategies I Learned at EXPCON

    11/13/2025

    Game-Changing Real Estate Strategies I Learned at EXPCON

    Welcome back to Raising the Flipping Bar! In this episode, Derek Marlin recaps his biggest takeaways from EXPCON 2025 — where the top minds in real estate, investing, and entrepreneurship came together to share what’s working right now. From agent growth and personal development to leadership and wealth-building strategies, Derek breaks down the mindset shifts and business moves that can help you level up in 2026. In this episode we cover: 🏗️ Key themes and lessons from EXPCON 2025 💡 How top agents are scaling their teams and personal brands 📈 What’s changing in the real estate market heading into 2026 🧠 The importance of mindset, connection, and continuous learning 🔥 How to take inspiration and turn it into real business growth If you’re a real estate agent, investor, or entrepreneur looking to sharpen your edge and elevate your business next year, this episode is packed with insights you can put into action right now. Connect with Derek Marlin and ELEVATION! Derek on LinkedIn: /derekmarlin ELEVATION’s website: https://elevationinvest.com ELEVATION on LinkedIn: /elevationinvestmentproperties ELEVATION on Instagram: /elevationinvest ELEVATION on Facebook: /elevationinvestmentproperties 🎧 Subscribe to “Raising the Flipping Bar” Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3ByYmxv Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3WbUCeQ 📺 Watch on YouTube: /@elevationrealestateinvesting #RealEstateInvesting #EXPCON2024 #AgentGrowth #MindsetMatters #RealEstateAgents #ScalingYourBusiness #EntrepreneurMindset #Leadership #ElevationInvesting #RaisingTheFlippingBar #BusinessStrategy #Networking #WealthBuilding #RealEstateTips #SuccessMindset

    30 min
  5. From Side Hustle to Full Time Investor with Jordan Cunningham Pt.2

    11/06/2025

    From Side Hustle to Full Time Investor with Jordan Cunningham Pt.2

    Welcome back to Part 2 of our conversation with investor and developer Jordan Cunningham of Cunningham Invest. In this episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on the real numbers behind his first big investment move — how he bought his primary home, turned it into a rental, and used equity and appreciation to scale into his next property. We break down the exact figures, financing details, cash flow, and equity strategy that made this deal possible — so you can see how a smart first purchase can become a long-term wealth-building machine. In this episode we cover: 📍 Purchase price, down payment, and loan structure 📈 Equity growth & how he leveraged it into the next property 💰 Rental income, cash flow, expenses, and returns 🔁 Why keeping the first home became his wealth foundation 🧠 The mindset & strategy behind the move-up investor path If you're looking to start with your first home or want to understand how everyday buyers build long-term wealth through real estate, this episode gives you the blueprint — with real numbers. Connect with Derek Marlin and ELEVATION! Derek on LinkedIn: /derekmarlin ELEVATION’s website: https://elevationinvest.com ELEVATION on LinkedIn: /elevationinvestmentproperties ELEVATION on Instagram: /elevationinvest ELEVATION on Facebook: /elevationinvestmentproperties 🎧 Subscribe to “Raising the Flipping Bar” Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3ByYmxv Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3WbUCeQ 📺 Watch on YouTube: /@elevationrealestateinvesting Hashtags #RealEstateInvesting #FixAndFlip #BRRRRStrategy #DenverRealEstate #HouseFlipping2025 #InvestmentMindset #ScalingYourBusiness #CunninghamInvest #RaisingTheFlippingBar #ElevationInvesting #EntrepreneurMindset #PassiveIncome #FirstTimeInvestor #RentalProperty #EquityStrategy

    32 min
  6. From Side Hustle to Full Time Investor with Jordan Cunningham

    10/30/2025

    From Side Hustle to Full Time Investor with Jordan Cunningham

    In this episode of Raising the Flipping Bar, I’m joined by Jordan Cunningham, founder of Cunningham Invest, to talk all things fix and flip, BRRRR investing, and scaling a real estate business from the ground up. Jordan shares how he transitioned from the corporate world into full-time real estate — and the systems, mindset, and team structure that helped him build a thriving investment company. Here’s what we cover: Jordan’s journey from side hustles to full-time investorHow he finds and funds his deals in a competitive Denver marketHis strategy for balancing flips, rentals, and private lendingLessons learned from market shifts and tough renovationsTips for managing contractors and staying on budgetHow to build a team and create repeatable systems for growthThe mindset shift that separates part-time flippers from prosWe also talk about the importance of mentorship, networking with integrity, and using data to make confident investment decisions in 2025’s evolving market. Connect with Derek Marlin and ELEVATION! Derek on LinkedIn: /derekmarlin ELEVATION’s website: https://elevationinvest.com ELEVATION on LinkedIn: /elevationinvestmentproperties  ELEVATION on Instagram: /elevationinvest  ELEVATION on Facebook: /elevationinvestmentproperties 🎧 Subscribe to “Raising the Flipping Bar” Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3ByYmxv Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3WbUCeQ 📺 Watch on YouTube: /@elevationrealestateinvesting #RealEstateInvesting #FixAndFlip #BRRRRStrategy #DenverRealEstate #HouseFlipping2025 #InvestmentMindset #ScalingYourBusiness #CunninghamInvest #RaisingTheFlippingBar #ElevationInvesting #EntrepreneurMindset #PassiveIncome

    34 min
  7. Behind the Numbers: Our Latest Colorado Flip

    10/24/2025

    Behind the Numbers: Our Latest Colorado Flip

    In this episode of Raising the Flipping Bar, we’re diving into one of my favorite topics — a full deal analysis of a recent cosmetic flip in Wheat Ridge, Colorado. I’m breaking down every number, decision, and lesson from this real project so you can see exactly what worked (and what didn’t) in today’s shifting market. Here’s what I cover: The property details and how we sourced the deal Rehab scope: where we spent, where we saved, and what moved the needle on value Financing and carrying cost breakdowns How our pricing strategy evolved as the market shifted mid-flip The final profit numbers — and the key lessons that will guide our next deal Why design restraint and timeline management made all the difference Tips for investors analyzing deals in the $600K–$900K price range in Denver I also share behind-the-scenes insights into team coordination, contractor relationships, and how to stay disciplined when the market throws curveballs. Coming up next: a full analysis of a flip that didn’t go as planned — plus lessons learned, and what we’re doing differently to adapt in 2025. Connect with Derek Marlin and ELEVATION! Derek on LinkedIn: /derekmarlin ELEVATION’s website: https://elevationinvest.com ELEVATION on LinkedIn: /elevationinvestmentproperties ELEVATION on Instagram: /elevationinvest ELEVATION on Facebook: /elevationinvestmentproperties 🎧 Subscribe to “Raising the Flipping Bar” Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3ByYmxv Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3WbUCeQ 📺 Watch on YouTube: /@elevationrealestateinvesting #RealEstateInvesting #FixAndFlip #HouseFlipping2025 #DealAnalysis #WheatRidgeRealEstate #FlipBreakdown #ProfitMargins #DesignStrategy #MarketTrends #SmartInvesting #FlippingHouses #ElevationInvesting #RaisingTheFlippingBar

    34 min
  8. The Real Estate Reboot: Why the Market Looks Weird (But Isn’t Broken)

    10/16/2025

    The Real Estate Reboot: Why the Market Looks Weird (But Isn’t Broken)

    In this episode, we’re breaking down what’s actually driving today’s real estate market — not predictions, not clickbait, but the real market movers. I’m joined by special guest Rick “The Wizard”, one of Denver’s sharpest real estate minds, to unpack how interest rates, inventory, and buyer psychology are shaping 2025. We dive into: The two different markets we’re seeing — entry-level vs. luxury Why this is not 2008 (and the data to prove it) How “recency bias” is affecting both buyers and agents The rise of builder inventory and what that means for investors The power of perspective — and why normal doesn’t mean bad Whether you’re an agent, investor, or just trying to make sense of the headlines, this episode will help you understand what’s really happening — and how to use it to your advantage. Tune in, take notes, and let’s raise the flipping bar together. WE ARE HIRING  Join Us at ELEVATION – Acquisitions Agent Role I’ve got more off-market leads than my team can handle, and I’m looking for a hungry, driven Acquisitions Agent to step in and close. At ELEVATION, we’ll give you everything you need—consistent deal flow, training, and support. You bring the hustle, follow-up, and ability to turn conversations into contracts. This role should be a $250k+ first-year opportunity with big upside as we grow. Here’s why this role is different: Consistent off-market leads and deal flow (100+ per month!) Rehab, transaction, and sales support so you can focus on closing A team that values integrity, problem-solving, and continuous improvement Listen to Raising The Flipping Bar Podcast for a detailed overview of this role.  If you’re competitive, coachable, and ready to chase deals, I want to hear from you. 👉Apply Now! Learn more about this opportunity and see all the details here. APPLY NOW We’re not just closing deals — we’re building something bigger. Join a team that supports you, challenges you, and celebrates your wins. If you’re ready to level up your career in real estate, I’d love to talk. Listen now on your favorite platform. Connect with us: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/derekmarlin Website: elevationinvest.com Instagram: @elevationinvest YouTube: @ELEVATIONRealEstateInvesting #RealEstateMarket #ElevationInvest #RaisingTheFlippingBar #RickTheWizard #RealEstateInvesting #MarketInsights #BusinessStrategy #EntrepreneurMindset #HousingMarket2025

    40 min
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About

Raising The Flipping Bar is the masterclass for real estate investors of all levels looking to make more money with property redevelopment (aka Fix & Flips), and real estate investing overall. Join Derek Marlin, expert real estate investor, as he brings actionable advice to help you make more money, avoid expensive mistakes, and scale your business with a growth mindset. We’ll talk about the good, the bad, and everything in between as it relates to Fix & Flips and real estate investing overall.  On Raising The Flipping Bar, you can expect to hear Derek Marlin share the in-depth strategies his team has used to Fix & Flip 80+ homes in Denver, CO along with 115 door apartment complexes in Cincinnati Ohio. Season one includes interviews with key team members and other successful investors that will reveal the secrets you’ve been looking for to get started in flipping or take your investment business to the next level.  If you’ve been looking for education, collaboration, and community in the Fix & Flip space, Raising The Flipping Bar with Derek Marlin is the podcast for you!

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