How a Retired US Marine Built a $200M Real Estate Portfolio

Are you ready to learn how to navigate commercial real estate, scale your portfolio, and build a recession-resistant business? In this episode, David Lilley, founder and CEO of Reap Capital, shares his inspiring journey from serving as a Marine Corps mortar squad leader to leading a $200 million AUM real estate empire. Whether you’re new to investing or looking to scale your business, this episode offers invaluable lessons on leadership, strategic growth, and finding opportunities in challenging markets.

Key Takeaways:

-Starting Small, Thinking Big: How David used VA loans to build a single-family portfolio and transitioned into multifamily for greater economies of scale.

-Overcoming Barriers: The challenges of entering the multifamily market, including building credibility and sourcing off-market deals.

-Scaling Efficiently: Why David started three companies—Reap Capital, Reap Management, and Reap Construction—and how in-house operations provide cost control and operational efficiency.

-Navigating Distress: Insights into structuring partnerships to acquire lender-foreclosed properties with outsized returns, even in a tough capital-raising environment.

-Leadership Insights: The importance of hiring for your weaknesses, delegating effectively, and focusing on the "little things" that lead to long-term success.

This episode is packed with actionable advice and candid reflections from a seasoned operator who has built success step by step. Tune in to gain clarity on how to approach your own investment and leadership journey.

Connect with David Lilley:

Website: ReapCapital.com

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Learn more about growing your wealth, strengthening your portfolio, and scaling to the next level at www.bluelake-capital.com.

To reach Ellie & the Blue Lake team, email them at info@bluelake-capital.com or complete our investor form at www.bluelake-capital.com/new-investor-form and they'll connect with you.

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction and Market Overview

00:14 Meet David Lilley: From Marine to Real Estate Mogul

01:39 David's Journey into Real Estate

03:23 Scaling Up: From Single Family to Multifamily

06:23 Managing Multiple Companies

09:42 Strategic Partnerships and Future Outlook

Credits

Producer: Blue Lake Capital

Strategist: Syed Mahmood

Editor: Emma Walker

Opening music: Pomplamoose

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