The Portland Real Estate Podcast

Steve Nassar and Joe Fustolo
  • 4.2 (28)
  • BUSINESS
The Portland Real Estate Podcast Podcast

The only source for Portland Oregon real estate news, forecasts, interviews and entertainment. Steve Nassar and Joe Fustolo cover the latest happenings in the Portland real estate market in this podcast.

  1. JUL 17

    PDX Real Estate EP160: The Interworkings Of A Winning Real Estate Portfolio With Rob Levy And Dirk Zeller

    You've heard the saying "multiple streams of income," but what about multiple streams of passive income?  Real estate offers a variety of options, from single-family homes to apartment buildings, and today we're joined by two experts to break it all down. Dirk Zeller, CEO of Real Estate Champions, has experience with all types of real estate investments, from single-family homes to small plexes, apartments, and commercial properties. Rob Levy, who has been in the real estate business since 1988, is brilliant with his investing strategy and knowledge. Some of the earliest advice he received was that you can make a lot of money selling real estate, but you can make more investing in real estate. We dive into real estate investment strategies from every angle, including single-family homes, multi-family homes, and commercial investments. While cash flow is crucial, we also explore the significant tax savings and depreciation benefits that come with strategically structured investments. Our experts break down concepts like cost segregation, explaining how it allows for a large one-time depreciation deduction that can substantially reduce taxable income for real estate professionals. We compare the pros and cons of investing in certain properties. Single-family homes may offer better appreciation, while multifamily properties can provide more consistent cash flow and lower acquisition costs per unit. No discussion would be complete without tackling tenant and property management along with location strategies. We explore the benefits of using self-directed retirement accounts (SDRAs) for real estate investments, showing how investors can defer taxes and potentially grow wealth tax-free. Our experts also shed light on partnering strategies, obtaining non-recourse loans, and navigating IRS regulations to ensure compliance. We discuss market insights, from tax laws to managing investments, including practical advice for new and seasoned investors. This podcast provides a comprehensive overview of real estate investment strategies, emphasizing the importance of education, strategic planning, and leveraging tax benefits. Join us as we unpack these critical topics and more with Dirk Zeller and Rob Levy. This is an episode you won't want to miss!   Key Takeaways Real estate investment strategies vary, with both single family and multifamily properties offering unique advantages. Understanding local market laws and having a solid investment strategy is crucial for success. Significant tax benefits, including mortgage interest deductions and cost segregation, can reduce taxable income. Single Family homes often appreciate more, while multifamily properties provide consistent cash flow. Selfdirected retirement accounts (SDRAs) offer tax deferred or tax free growth for real estate investments. Having local market knowledge and a proactive approach helps in finding and managing profitable investments. Diversification in investment properties can provide stability and enhance long term returns. Leveraging properties and scaling investments are essential strategies for building wealth. Challenges in real estate investment include tenant management, property maintenance, and market fluctuations. Understanding Section 8 housing benefits and drawbacks can impact investment decisions. Building a real estate business, living below your means, and having access to financing are key to successful investment. Investing in properties outside your local area requires reliable property management and local expertise. Finding the right deal and being willing to invest despite minor cost differences can lead to long term success. House hacking and partnering with others can be effective entry strategies for new investors. Utilizing property management teams and continuously educating oneself on real estate strategies are vital. Buying properties with the potential for appreciation and maintaining flexibility in investment

    1h 22m

  2. MAY 28

    PDX Real Estate EP159: Unpacking the DOJ-NAR Settlement: Compliance and Transparency with RMLS CEO Kurt von Wasmuth

    One of our favorite guests, Kurt von Wasmuth, President and CEO of RMLS, is here to talk about the latest industry upheavals. Kurt, a frequent guest and one of our biggest advocates, will help clear up some of the confusion and questions about this process. For years, MLS systems have provided data about properties for sale along with the compensation structure from listing brokers to buyer brokers. In 2019, the DOJ filed a civil antitrust lawsuit against NAR, alleging that certain rules and policies of NAR were anticompetitive and hindered fair competition in the real estate market. There was a settlement agreement in 2020 to help promote more competitive practices in the real estate industry. Key components include, disclosure of commission rates, prohibition of misleading practices, and increased transparency. The compliance deadline is just around the corner on August 17th, 2024. Guess who gets tasked with helping enforce compliance? The MLS systems.  Fresh from his Washington DC trip, Kurt is here to share how RMLS, MLS Aligned, and the other big MLS systems are trying to make compliance as smooth as possible.  He knows there will be unforeseen challenges and obstacles, but they are doing their best to get systems in place to update the database and make the commission check box system standard.  If you want a first hand walk through of the imminent changes, this show is for you. Kurt is always a wealth of knowledge and this conversation is no exception.  We talk about possible issues with enforcement and how it all may play out. How will such a huge upheaval in the industry affect us? How smooth will the transition go? What future obstacles are yet to be seen? Will these changes lead to more transparency and competitive pricing? Ultimately will any of this benefit consumers? How can those in the industry benefit from these changes?  Join us as we unpack these critical questions and more as we discuss possible implications with Kurt von Wasmuth. This is an episode you won't want to miss!   Key Takeaways The real estate world is changing overnight with this settlement Compensation is no longer guaranteed; subscribers must now negotiate directly with buyers MLSs are now responsible for ensuring written buyer broker agreements Policing the new rules may lead to creative and uncertain strategies Key logistical factors include clean data handoffs and removing compensation fields Implementation of the new checkbox system is discussed Websites sharing compensation knowledge cannot have MLS information Listing percentages can be used on personal website data feeds Sellers decide what to do with the buyer's agent's commission The changes are expected to be better for consumers Clarification on when buyer agreements are necessary during showings Open house agents work for the seller; entering homes requires buyer broker agreements NAR won't mandate agreement details A buyer agreement is needed if you expect to get paid RMLS will ensure written buyer agreements when required RMLS won't act as legal experts on agreements Agreements can be renegotiated RMLS requires agreements but has no jurisdiction over disputes All incentives are separate from the commission Compliance is critical; potential for lawsuits is high RMLS is working on the settlement and related tasks Improvements to Aligned Showings and RMLSweb are ongoing Advantages of a central MLS are discussed We discuss the length of remarks in MLS Reflection on whether past actions could have prevented current changes More people will be leaving the industry over the next few years The future is rosy and we have a lot to look forward to   Connect with Joe Soldera Properties Joe on LinkedIn   Connect with Steve Steve’s Team at Premiere Property Group Steve on LinkedIn   Connect with Kurt RMLS Kurt von Wasmuth LinkedIn   Resources MLS Aligned

    1h 5m

  3. MAR 26

    PDX Real Estate EP158: Navigating the Future of Real Estate: The Impact of the NAR Lawsuit and What's Next

    Almost everything from our last Best of Masters was about the NAR lawsuit and settlement. In fact, this was our largest audience ever. Everyone is interested in knowing how this is going to play out.  In this episode, Steve and Joe share what this means to them and what it could look like going forward. They also share insightful comments and questions from listeners.   In 2021, there were 100 billion dollars in commissions in the US. Is this pie going to shrink after the NAR lawsuit and settlement? Find out what we think! The NAR lawsuit and settlement is huge. There are massive changes happening in our industry. These changes are equivalent to what Dodd-Frank did to the mortgage industry in 2010. We break down how commissions used to work with buyer’s agents being sub agents of the seller. We talk about changes made in fiduciary responsibility and rules for transparency.  The lawsuit found that NAR may need to pay 5.4 billion dollars. After this, negotiations started. It was just announced that they settled for $418 million. Now buyer's agent commission doesn't need to be posted, and buyers representation agreements will be required in all 50 states. Starting in July with court approval. No one really knows how this is going to play out, but we do know the changes are here. Instead of fighting it, let's get through it together. Join us as we navigate the possibilities. It’s not time to panic. It’s time to up our buyer representation game, improve our value, and master our craft!   Key Takeaways The evolution of commission structures before and after the recent mandates Why listing agents might see their share of commissions increase despite overall reductions The anticipated increase in effort required to secure buyers under the new commission norms Predictions for a rise in direct transactions between sellers and buyers How the mandate for buyer's agents to demonstrate value could enhance industry professionalism Potential changes in how seller-paid commissions are disclosed The necessity of representation agreements for both buyers and sellers in the new landscape Tips for negotiating commissions with a signed buyer's representation in hand The emergence of service menus offered to buyers by various entities Speculation on the impact of these changes on major real estate platforms like Zillow The likelihood of more competitive pricing structures, including flat fees The possibility for sellers to adjust commission offers dynamically The critical role of securing signed buyer's representation agreements Questions around the future of pre-agreed broker commission rates in listing contracts The need for extensive education among buyers, sellers, and brokers regarding these changes The implications of eliminating the NAR's MLS membership requirement   Connect with Joe Soldera Properties Joe on LinkedIn   Connect with Steve Steve’s Team at Premiere Property Group Steve on LinkedIn   Resources The Truth About the NAR Settlement Agreement Rick Gray Real Estate Coach

    1h 26m

  4. FEB 5

    PDX Real Estate EP157: How to Stay on Top of Industry, Market, and Tech Changes—with Ken Perry

    Have you been wondering how to stay on top of all the industry, market, and technology changes in today's real estate world? Understanding market trends, compliance, and leveraging technology has never been more critical. It's not just about navigating the legalities; it's about thriving in a market that demands adaptability, foresight, and integrity. What are the emerging market trends and technological advances that can benefit today’s real estate professionals?  Ken Perry, a former lender turned trainer, speaker, outstanding podcast guest and host, and compliance expert, stays on the cutting edge of the industry. His company, Knowledge Coop, specializes in keeping lenders at the top of their game with compliance, continuing education, technology, market trends, and lessons in leadership and life. In this episode of The Portland Real Estate Podcast, Ken joins hosts Joe Fustolo and Steve Nassar for a masterclass on the fast-moving real estate industry. He shares insights into navigating the complexities of today's market with confidence and integrity. We also discuss the NAR lawsuit, how to use technology ethically, and the benefits and dangers of the AI world. We touch on election-year interest rates and have a little fun with some of the Best of Masters topics. Tune in for a conversation that's bound to inspire and equip you for the road ahead in real estate. Key Takeaways Compliance is just a portion of what Knowledge Coop does. It's more about helping the real estate industry  What realtors aren't doing right include not properly understanding or following RESPA (Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act)   Realtors shouldn't quote interest rates without disclosures or technology that posts real interest rates Ken's podcast, Lessons From Last Time, provides listeners with strategies for resilience How this downturn is worse than 2008 with the lowest amount of units sold since 1995 How the real estate and mortgage industry need to take some responsibility for the low numbers and reach out to help potential buyers How buyer behavior is influenced by FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out) and FOBO (Fear Of Better Options)  Activity increases when rates go down, but rates like in 2021 probably aren't in the future During election years rates are usually artificially lowered or not spiked Ken shares his theory from Best of Masters about the NAR lawsuit and how it's framed as consumers being harmed A buyer's agent needs to be able to explain their worth to the client, some are going to the lender’s side Knowledge Coop and Zillow now have AI products With the emergence of deep fakes and AI, we need to be skeptical of everything Connect with Ken Knowledge Coop Lessons From Last Time Ken on LinkedIn Ken on Facebook Email info@knowledgecoop.com Connect with Joe Soldera Properties Joe on LinkedIn Connect with Steve Steve’s Team at Premiere Property Group Steve on LinkedIn Resources Estie Briggs on Work-Life Balance Zillow's New AI-Powered Natural-Language Search Is A First In Real Estate Cooper AI Assistant The Joe Rogan AI Experience Aligned Showings

    1h 10m

  5. 12/19/2023

    PDX Real Estate EP156: Rebuilding a Real Estate Business in a New Market—with Tucker Merrihew

    In 2015, Tucker Merrihew got the idea for The Portland Real Estate Podcast. And he cohosted the show for seven years. But in 2022, Tucker left the Pacific Northwest for the sun and sand of southwest Florida. What has he been up to since then? How does Naples, Florida, differ from Tucker’s old stomping grounds in Lake Oswego? What does it look like to rebuild a real estate business in a new market? On this episode of The Portland Real Estate Podcast, your hosts Joe Fustolo and Steve Nassar catch up with Tucker, discussing how he rebuilt TTM Development Company after the move and what it’s like to operate a home building company and hospitality business in the State of Florida. Tucker, Steve and Joe consider what the Fed announcement around rate cuts in 2024 means for the market and predict how the NAR lawsuit might (or might not) change the landscape of real estate. Listen in for insight into the recent transition of ownership in Steve’s company and enjoy a highlight reel of the high-value guests who appeared on the podcast in 2023! Key Takeaways How The Portland Real Estate Podcast has evolved since Tucker came up with the idea in 2015 The synergy between the podcast and Joe’s Masters in Real Estate Facebook Group What inspired Tucker’s move from Oregon to Florida and how Naples differs from Lake Oswego The success of Tucker’s hospitality business (and why it’s easier to operate STRs in Florida) How Tucker rebuilt his home building business in Florida and documented the process How codes requirements and insurance differ in Florida to accommodate potential hurricanes Tucker’s experience living through Hurricane Ian and how long it takes to rebuild afterward The recent Fed announcement re: rate cuts in 2024 and what that means for the real estate market The psychological impact of rising interest rates on the real estate market How the transition of ownership in Steve’s company followed its operating agreement How the NAR lawsuit is likely to change the landscape of buyer’s agent compensation in real estate An overview of the high-value guests we’ve interviewed on the podcast in 2023 The purpose we serve in uniting the real estate industry through the podcast and Facebook group Connect with Tucker TTM Development Company The Journey Podcast Tucker on LinkedIn Connect with Joe Soldera Properties Joe on LinkedIn Connect with Steve Steve’s Team at Premiere Property Group Steve on LinkedIn Resources Masters in Real Estate Facebook Group Sitzer v. NAR 2023 Episodes of the Portland Real Estate Podcast

    1h 26m

  6. 11/20/2023

    PDX Real Estate EP155: Unpacking Nar Developments—with Rob Levy

    A Missouri court recently found NAR, HomeServices of America and Keller Williams liable for $1.8B in damages for conspiring to keep commissions artificially high.   And there’s a long list of copycat lawsuits advocating a shift in the way commissions are paid in real estate.   So, what might that look like? What does it mean for you and your business?   Rob Levy has been a licensed Portland REALTOR since 1988 and currently serves as Principal Broker with The Rob Levy Real Estate Team, a top-producer in the Pacific Northwest.   On this episode of The Portland Real Estate Podcast, Rob joins hosts Joe Fustolo and Steve Nassar to walk us through the lawsuits against NAR and discuss how buyer’s agents might be paid in the future.   They describe how the decoupling of commissions will impact first-time homebuyers and why buyer’s agents will have to sell what we do to consumers moving forward.   Listen in as Rob explains how decoupling commissions will increase the barrier-to-entry in real estate and learn how to adapt to a change in how BACs are paid and thrive in a ‘specialist’s market.’   Key Takeaways   What’s behind the $1.8B lawsuit against NAR (and the long list of copycat lawsuits) Rob’s insight on how the real estate industry resisted change in 1993 when buyer’s agency came out Why the listing agent and buyer’s agent are both paid by the seller right now How buyer’s agents might be paid by homebuyers or negotiate commissions when an offer comes in Why buyer’s agents being paid by buyers is bad for the industry and first-time homebuyers Why buyer’s agents will have to sell what they do to consumers moving forward How a shift in the way BACs are paid will impact the attrition rate for REALTORS How a decoupling of commissions might be a good thing for listing agents How the decoupling of commissions will increase the barrier-to-entry in real estate Why it’s crucial for real estate agents to anticipate and adapt to change The similarities and differences between the current market and the Great Recession Opportunities to buy in the current real estate market (and how first-time homebuyers are priced out) How the recent dramatic rise in interest rates killed demand in the real estate market Life events that drive people to buy and sell homes regardless of the market   Connect with Rob   The Rob Levy Real Estate Team   Connect with Joe Soldera Properties Joe on LinkedIn Connect with Steve Steve’s Team at Premiere Property Group Steve on LinkedIn   Resources   Sitzer v. NAR Industry Lawsuit Watch on BAM RPAC The Compound Effect by Darren Hardy

    1h 11m

  7. 10/25/2023

    PDX Real Estate EP154: Free-Standing Structures for Maximizing Living Space with Anthony Taylor-Weber

    Do you have clients who need more space but can’t move in the current market? With rates reaching 8% for the first time in 20 years, plenty of people are stuck in the home they’ve got. What if you could offer a solution that would give them the space they need and add value to their current home without spending hundreds of thousands of dollars on an addition or ADU? Anthony Taylor-Weber is Founder and CEO of Outdoor Office, a business that designs and builds custom, fully finished backyard studio spaces for home businesses, work-from-home employees and creatives. On this episode of The Portland Real Estate Podcast, Anthony joins hosts Joe Fustolo and Steve Nassar to explain how he was his own first customer and why you might consider building an outdoor office. Anthony discusses the distinctions among additions or remodels, ADUs, tiny homes and sheds, describing why his outdoor offices fall into the regulatory category of sheds—and how that’s beneficial. Listen in to understand the potential return on investment for building an outdoor studio and learn how to make potential clients lifelong fans by recommending Outdoor Office. Key Takeaways Anthony’s background working in the Department of Defense and as a home inspector How building an outdoor office for himself led Anthony to found Outdoor Office, Inc. The distinctions among additions/remodels, ADUs, tiny homes and sheds Why Anthony’s outdoor offices or studios fall into the regulatory category of sheds (and why that’s beneficial to his customers) How to install a toilet or sink in your outdoor office without changing its regulatory status Uses for an outdoor office beyond a traditional workspace, e.g.: yoga studio, home gym, bar, etc. Why Anthony’s business grows during dips in the housing market Strategies for financing an outdoor office and why Anthony is building an in-house option How Anthony navigates HOAs that are hesitant to approve an outdoor office Why you might consider building an outdoor office or recommend it to your clients How building an outdoor office adds significant value to your home How Joe and Steve advise their clients around pricing in the current real estate market Why Joe and Steve predict an exodus from the business in the next 6 to 12 months Connect with Anthony Outdoor Office Outdoor Office Podcast Connect with Joe Soldera Properties Joe on LinkedIn Connect with Steve Steve’s Team at Premiere Property Group Steve on LinkedIn Resources  CNBC Story on Mortgage Rates & Home Affordability PDX Panel of Powerful Women EP147

    1h 18m

  8. 08/29/2023

    PDX Real Estate EP153: How New Land Use Regulations Help & Hinder Development—with Ezra Hammer & Jamie Howsley of Jordan Ramis

    The Portland region needs 60,000 housing units to resolve the current housing shortage. What new land use laws are helping close the gap? And what legal developments make it even harder for developers to keep up with demand? Ezra Hammer and Jamie Howsley are attorneys at Jordan Ramis, a firm that serves the businesses of Pacific Northwest. Ezra and Jamie have expertise in land use and development, environmental and natural resource permitting and government affairs. On this episode of The Portland Real Estate Podcast, Ezra and Jamie join hosts Joe Fustolo and Steve Nassar to discuss what’s behind the moratorium on new development in Washington County and why it’s so challenging to build in Multnomah.å Ezra and Jamie explore the benefits of a new law promoting the adaptive reuse of old commercial buildings into residential units and explain how residential infill projects give property owners the freedom to build ADUs and attached homes. Listen in for Ezra and Jamie’s take on cities banning natural gas in new construction and learn what we can do to support thoughtful real estate development and alleviate the growing housing crisis. Key Takeaways  What’s behind the moratorium on new development in Washington County How the Washington County moratorium will impact the housing market The benefits of a new law supporting the adaptive reuse of old commercial buildings into residential units Why developers might be slow to take on adaptive reuse projects Why the City of Portland expanded the opportunity to build senior housing in residential zones How residential infill projects make it easier for residents to build ADUs and attached homes and why that’s still not enough fix the housing shortage Why it’s so challenging to build in Multnomah County and what’s being done to change that How short-term rentals affect the housing landscape and recent court cases to restrict STRs How Ezra & Jamie think about cities mandating what you can and can’t use for power (and why municipalities go after new construction vs. retrofitting existing stock) Why the growth Portland has seen over the past several decades is likely to continue and increase Ezra & Jamie’s take on where the next annexations or developments will be Connect with Esra & Jamie Jordan Ramis Connect with Joe Soldera Properties Joe on LinkedIn Connect with Steve Steve’s Team at Premiere Property Group Steve on LinkedIn Resources  Masters in Real Estate Facebook Group Ezra on Portland Real Estate Podcast EP127 Renaissance Homes Riverside Homes ‘Empty and Unwanted, the Iconic Buildings of Portland’s Skyline Are in Trouble’ in Willamette Week City of Portland Residential Infill Project Report ‘Milwaukie Becomes Second-Largest Oregon City to Pass Natural Gas Ban Resolutions’ on KGW8

    1h 10m
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4.2
out of 5
28 Ratings

About

The only source for Portland Oregon real estate news, forecasts, interviews and entertainment. Steve Nassar and Joe Fustolo cover the latest happenings in the Portland real estate market in this podcast.

Information

  • Creator
    Steve Nassar and Joe Fustolo
  • Years Active
    2015 - 2024
  • Episodes
    159
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © The Portland Real Estate Podcast
  • Show Website
    The Portland Real Estate Podcast

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