DebtStreet Podcast

DebtStreet

The DebtStreet podcast shines a bright light on interesting people and firms turning debt into assets.

  1. 09/23/2024

    DebtStreet - Brian Burke

    Navigating Real Estate Syndication and Market Cycles with Brian Burke Podcast Summary: In this episode of DebtStreet, Carol Ng sits down with Brian Burke, founder of Praxis Capital, to discuss his journey from flipping houses to running a successful commercial real estate syndication firm. Brian shares personal stories of early challenges, pivotal moments that shaped his career, and his philosophy on navigating market cycles. The conversation highlights how Brian managed to grow Praxis Capital, which has raised $350 million and acquired $800 million worth of multifamily properties. They also dive into lessons learned from past economic downturns and the strategies Brian uses to safeguard investor capital during turbulent times. Key Points: Brian's Journey: Before founding Praxis Capital, Brian worked as a house flipper and part-time in law enforcement. Challenges and Success: It took Brian five years to achieve his first real success in real estate, with private investors providing the critical capital he needed. Praxis Capital: Focuses on multifamily syndication, having raised $350 million and purchased over 4,000 units. Navigating Market Cycles: Brian sold three-quarters of his portfolio at the peak in 2021-2022, just before the market downturn. Recession Strategy: Brian shares insights on managing risk during recessions, including his personal sacrifice to pay mortgages out of pocket during the 2008 crisis to protect investors. Future of Praxis Capital: Focused on recognizing opportunities and managing risk, with a shift towards investing in real estate debt for safer returns in today’s climate. Memorable Moments: Timing the Market: Brian's ability to sense market highs and lows helped him avoid losses and maximize returns for investors. Staying Grounded: Brian credits his humble beginnings for keeping him down to earth despite his success. Real Estate War Stories: From fires to hurricanes, Brian shares some wild stories of managing multifamily properties. Book Recommendation: The Hands-Off Investor by Brian Burke — A comprehensive guide to passive real estate investing. Connect with Brian: Website: Praxis Capital Instagram: Investor Brian Burke

  2. 07/25/2024

    DebtStreet - Jason Aubrey

    Jason Aubrey, co-founder of PlattPointe Capital, shares his journey in building a successful boutique commercial real estate lending firm. He discusses the unique approach of his company in solving problems for developers and investors, and the importance of having a strong database of capital connections. Jason also talks about his experience in navigating economic downturns and the current rate environment. He recommends the books 'Blue Ocean Strategy' and 'Managing the Professional Service Firm' as valuable resources. The conversation ends with some lighthearted banter about the company culture at PlattPointe Capital. Keywords commercial real estate lending, boutique shop, debt equity placement, economic downturn, rate environment, capital connections, Blue Ocean Strategy, Managing the Professional Service Firm, company culture Takeaways • PlattPointe Capital differentiates itself by solving problems for developers and investors in the commercial real estate lending space. • Having a strong database of capital connections is crucial for success in the industry. • Navigating economic downturns requires creativity, problem-solving skills, and the ability to adapt to changing market conditions. • The current rate environment is volatile, and it is important to stay informed and be prepared for potential changes. Recommended books: 'Blue Ocean Strategy' and 'Managing the Professional Service Firm'. PlattPointe Capital values company culture and focuses on driving revenue and providing excellent service to clients. You can send your questions to Jason Aubrey at Jason@PlattPointe.com or (303) 598-3876.

  3. 05/01/2024

    DebtStreet - Rafi Golberstein

    Rafi Golberstein, the founder of Pace Loan Group, discusses the benefits and practical deployment of C-PACE financing. C-PACE financing is a tool used to finance properties with energy efficiency, renewable energy, or seismic resiliency improvements. Pace Loan Group differentiates itself by being independently owned and operated, offering in-house origination and servicing, and having deep institutional backing. The current rate environment has been beneficial for Pace Loan Group as more people are looking for alternative forms of capital. Education and awareness of C-PACE financing have increased, with owners and developers now demanding it as part of their financing packages. Retroactive PACE financing allows developers to tap into PACE credits for projects completed in the past three years, providing liquidity and helping with refinancing. Rafi shares his background in commercial real estate finance and explains how he decided to start Pace Loan Group. Rafi highlights the unique features of C-PACE financing, such as long-term fixed-rate terms and self-amortization. He also discusses the early wins and successes of Pace Loan Group and the factors that differentiate them from their competitors. Rafi emphasizes the importance of education and awareness in the C-PACE lending industry and shares his future goals for the company. He concludes by explaining the process and benefits of retroactive PACE financing and the geographical coverage of Pace Loan Group.

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The DebtStreet podcast shines a bright light on interesting people and firms turning debt into assets.