The Smart Real Estate Coach Podcast|Real Estate Investing

Chris Prefontaine
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The Smart Real Estate Coach Podcast|Real Estate Investing

Welcome to the Smart Real Estate Coach podcast. Our episodes are designed to help YOU reach the next level of real estate investing no matter where you are right now. To make this a reality, we lean into our 32+ years of experience, our huge network of experts, and our thriving community of Associates. With the right tools, the right education, and the right mindset YOU can take control of your financial future. At Smart Real Estate Coach, we empower individuals and families to create the life of their dreams through real estate. If you are an aspiring or seasoned real estate investor looking for a proven investment system, robust education, and a thriving support community, you have come to the right place. We share the best information from our own deals, our Associate's deals, and our guest experts, helping you potentially save hundreds of thousands of dollars in costly mistakes. And we know what the work actually takes. Between our Associates and our own deals, we’re still completing deals every month and control, at any given time between $60-100 million dollars worth of real estate with little to no money down. If you’re serious about making money in the world of real estate investment, then keep listening to learn more!

  1. 1D AGO

    Episode 498: $20M Annual Developer Success Secrets with Brandon Cobb

    Ever wondered how to go from flipping houses to developing entire communities? In this episode, I sit down with Brandon Cobb, a former medical sales rep turned real estate developer managing $20M+ in new home construction annually.   Brandon shares how he pivoted from single-family deals to large-scale land development, the risks he took to go all-in, and how he creates value before even breaking ground. We’ll break down how to identify prime land, navigate zoning approvals, and follow institutional money to find the best markets.   If you’re looking to scale your business, transition into development, or understand how big investors think, this episode is packed with practical strategies to help you level up.   Key Talking Points of the Episode   00:00 Introduction 02:17 The Apprentice Program 04:25 Brandon’s story into entrepreneurship 08:47 Why your 9-5 job is the biggest risk you’re taking 11:16 The leap from flipping houses to developing entire communities 19:37 The “Follow the Money” strategy 23:59 The impact of building relationships with city officials 26:35 Affordable housing demand & why entry level homes outperform 28:27 Connect with Brandon and his team!  30:30 Brandon’s advice for aspiring real estate investors 31:40 Getting ahead in life by investing in education and mentorship Quotables   “I burned through my savings, maxed out credit cards, and still pushed forward—because failure wasn’t an option.”   “Institutional investors and corporate expansions dictate where the real estate market is headed—follow the money.”   “Most investors chase existing deals; we create them by unlocking land value before we even buy it.”   Links   HBG Capital https://www.hbgcapital.net/ info@hbgcapital.net   Real Estate On Your Terms and Deal Structure Overtime https://wickedsmartbooks.com/podcast   FREE Master’s Class http://smartrealestatecoach.com/masterspodcast   FREE Strategy Session with Chris Pre http://smartrealestatecoach.com/actionpodcast   QLS 4.0 https://smartrealestatecoach.com/qlspodcast   Investor Resources https://smartrealestatecoach.com/resources   Apprentice Program https://smartrealestatecoach.com/apprenticepodcast   In the Trenches Bootcamp https://smartrealestatecoach.com/ittbpodcast   3 Paydays Virtual Event https://smartrealestatecoach.com/3paydayspodcast   REI Blackbook https://smartrealestatecoach.com/REIBB-DD   7 Figures Funding https://smartrealestatecoach.com/7figures-pod

    36 min

  2. MAR 5

    Episode 497: Why the Wealthy Avoid Stocks – And What They Invest in Instead with Dr. Allen Lomax

    In this episode of Smart Real Estate Coach, we’re sitting down with Dr. Allen Lomax, a Ph.D. in Organizational Systems Psychology and real estate investor. Allen shares how he transitioned from academia to real estate, overcame the 2008 market crash, and built a system to turn low-performing investments into high-yield, recession-resistant assets.   Allen highlights the limitations of stocks and bonds, emphasizing private placements, multifamily syndications, and mobile home parks for better returns. He also introduces Streams to Impact, a program that helps investors restructure portfolios in 60 days for 18%+ annual returns with lower tax liabilities. If you’re ready to move beyond traditional investments, this episode is packed with insightful strategies to help you take action.   Key Talking Points of the Episode   00:00 Introduction 01:23 Who is Dr. Allen Lomax? 04:06 Lessons from the 2008 market crash 07:44 What is Streams to Impact? 12:31 Who the Streams to Impact program is for 16:09 What high-net-worth individuals are investing in 20:59 Focusing on multifamily investments and other alternative assets 22:20 Streams to Impact podcast 25:48 Learn more about Dr. Allen Lomax and Streams to Impact   Quotables   “Most people think stocks and bonds are safe, but in reality, they’re some of the riskiest assets out there.”   “The wealthy don’t gamble with stocks—they build wealth through tangible, recession-resistant assets.”   “Private placements give you higher returns, tax advantages, and stability—without the daily market volatility.”   Links   Exclusive High Yield Investment Blueprint https://highyieldblueprint.com   Streams to Impact Podcast https://open.spotify.com/show/299AdjqfOa4TpSslHmmpud?si=576e45a8e3ef4632   Real Estate On Your Terms and Deal Structure Overtime https://wickedsmartbooks.com/podcast   FREE Master’s Class http://smartrealestatecoach.com/masterspodcast   FREE Strategy Session with Chris Pre http://smartrealestatecoach.com/actionpodcast   QLS 4.0 https://smartrealestatecoach.com/qlspodcast   Investor Resources https://smartrealestatecoach.com/resources   Apprentice Program https://smartrealestatecoach.com/apprenticepodcast   In the Trenches Bootcamp https://smartrealestatecoach.com/ittbpodcast   3 Paydays Virtual Event https://smartrealestatecoach.com/3paydayspodcast   REI Blackbook https://smartrealestatecoach.com/REIBB-DD   7 Figures Funding https://smartrealestatecoach.com/7figures-pod

    31 min

  3. FEB 26

    Episode 496: From Canada to U.S. Real Estate: How to Invest Across Borders Successfully with Glen Sutherland

    Ever wondered how to break into U.S. real estate investing—even if you’re based in another country? This week, I sit down with Glen Sutherland, a Canadian investor who successfully scaled his real estate business by expanding into the U.S. Glen shares the advantages of investing across borders, including access to creative financing strategies, long-term mortgages, and public data that makes deal sourcing easier.   We dive into the step-by-step process of setting up a remote investing operation, from choosing the right markets to building a reliable team on the ground. Glen also shares key insights on structuring deals, financing options, and the biggest mistakes international investors make when entering the U.S. market. If you’ve ever considered investing outside your home country, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you get started.   Episode Highlights [0:00] – Introduction [2:00] – How Glen transitioned from investing in Canada to the U.S. [4:05] – The biggest advantages of investing in the U.S. market [7:18] – How to build and manage a real estate team remotely [10:09] – Creative financing strategies: sub-to deals, seller financing, and lease options [12:32] – The importance of having multiple contractors and property managers [15:33] – Generating leads through property managers, contractors, and attorneys [17:05] – Common tax and legal pitfalls for Canadians investing in the U.S. [20:50] – How Glen helps others break into U.S. real estate investing [23:10] – Understanding corporate structures for tax efficiency [25:35] – Why 30-year mortgages in the U.S. offer more stability than Canada’s system [27:00] – The role of public data access in making informed investment decisions   Key Takeaways 1. U.S. real estate offers more creative financing opportunities – Investors can leverage strategies like subject-to deals, seller financing, and lease options, which are harder to execute in Canada due to regulations. 2. Building a strong remote team is crucial – Success in out-of-state or international investing depends on hiring reliable contractors, property managers, and local experts to manage properties effectively. 3. Understanding tax structures can save investors thousands – Canadian investors need to structure their U.S. investments properly to avoid double taxation and optimize for cross-border tax benefits. 4. Having access to public data gives U.S. investors a competitive edge – Unlike Canada, the U.S. provides easy access to property sales history, ownership details, and mortgage information, making it easier to analyze deals. 5. Long-term fixed-rate mortgages provide stability – The U.S. mortgage system allows for 30-year fixed loans, which help investors predict cash flow and avoid financial uncertainty when interest rates change.   Links & Resources • Connect with Glen: GlenSutherland.com • Learn more about our coaching & events: SmartRealEstateCoach.com Links   Apartments 101: The Apartment Investing Masterclass https://apartments101.co   Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/financial-freedom-with-real-estate-investing/id848693430 https://www.amazon.com/Financial-Freedom-Real-Estate-Investing/dp/1986532364   Real Estate On Your Terms and Deal Structure Overtime https://wickedsmartbooks.com/podcast   FREE Master’s Class https://wickedsmartacademy.com/mastersclass   FREE Strategy Session with Chris Pre https://smartrealestatecoach.com/chrisprecall   FREE Workshop https://smartrealestatecoach.com/pcws   QLS Homestudy Course https://wickedsmartacademy.com/course/qls-homestudy-4   Investor Resources https://smartrealestatecoach.com/resources   3 Paydays Apprentice https://smartrealestatecoach.com/apprentice-pod   In the Trenches Bootcamp https://smartrealestatecoach.com/ittb-pod   REI Blackbook https://smartrealestatecoach.com/REIBB-DD   If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast. Your support helps us continue delivering valuable insights for real estate investors.

    27 min

  4. FEB 19

    Episode 495: The $300M Multifamily Empire & The Truth About Financial Freedom with Michael Blank

    In this episode of Smart Real Estate Coach, you’ll hear from Michael Blank, a multifamily investing expert, bestselling author, and CEO of Nighthawk Equity. With a $300 million+ portfolio and a track record of helping students acquire over 40,000 multifamily units, Michael shares his journey from tech entrepreneur to real estate mogul. He opens up about the lessons learned from a failed restaurant venture and why multifamily investing is the fastest path to financial freedom.   Discover how to break into multifamily real estate, debunk common myths, and start without years of experience or personal capital. Michael shares strategies for scaling, raising capital, and building a recession-resistant portfolio. If you’re ready to level up, this episode is packed with actionable insights for success.   Key Talking Points of the Episode   00:00 Introduction 03:53 How Michael went from restaurant owner to real estate investor 06:55 Why single-family is not the best way to achieve financial freedom  07:57 Overcoming the challenges of failing in the restaurant industry 10:31 The story behind Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing 11:47 Debunking the biggest myths about multifamily investing 13:25 What is a syndication? 14:21 Deal finders vs. Capital raisers 15:37 Deals from Nighthawk Equity 17:06 How to find deals that will work for you 19:22 The plan to scale Nighthawk Equity 20:08 Learn more about apartment investing with Michael 21:00 The importance of clarity in real estate investing 24:16 What is financial freedom about? Quotables   “You don’t need years of experience to buy an apartment building—you just need the right team and strategy.”   “If you think flipping houses will make you financially free, think again. Multifamily is the real path to wealth.”   “Real estate isn’t just about making money—it’s about creating freedom, legacy, and impact.”   Links   Apartments 101: The Apartment Investing Masterclass https://apartments101.co   Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/financial-freedom-with-real-estate-investing/id848693430 https://www.amazon.com/Financial-Freedom-Real-Estate-Investing/dp/1986532364   Real Estate On Your Terms and Deal Structure Overtime https://wickedsmartbooks.com/podcast   FREE Master’s Class https://wickedsmartacademy.com/mastersclass   FREE Strategy Session with Chris Pre https://smartrealestatecoach.com/chrisprecall   FREE Workshop https://smartrealestatecoach.com/pcws   QLS Homestudy Course https://wickedsmartacademy.com/course/qls-homestudy-4   Investor Resources https://smartrealestatecoach.com/resources   3 Paydays Apprentice https://smartrealestatecoach.com/apprentice-pod   In the Trenches Bootcamp https://smartrealestatecoach.com/ittb-pod   REI Blackbook https://smartrealestatecoach.com/REIBB-DD

    29 min

  5. FEB 12

    Episode 494: Unlocking Off-Market Gold with Data-Driven Leads with Shaun Farr

    In this episode of Smart Real Estate Coach, Shaun Farr, President of Landvoice, shares how data-driven lead generation is transforming real estate investing. With over two decades of experience, he’s helped investors and agents secure high-quality, off-market deals before they hit the mainstream. We discuss how expired listings, FSBOs, and pre-foreclosures provide an edge in today’s low-inventory market, and why economic shifts make now the time for smart investors to take action. If you’re looking for better leads, higher conversion rates, and a way to stay ahead of the competition, this episode is packed with actionable strategies and exclusive insights.   Key Talking Points of the Episode   00:00 Introduction 01:33 Who is Shaun Farr? 03:25 How Shaun got into real estate investing 07:29 Shaun’s transition from investing to real estate tech 10:33 Understanding the biggest pain points for investors 12:34 The story behind Landvoice 14:19 How expired listings can create great opportunities for investors 17:56 Understanding pre-foreclosures 23:32 The factors that contribute to seller distress 25:03 Finding opportunities in distressed seller data 27:27 Having the right conversations with sellers in distress 31:29 Get discounted data from Landvoice 34:33 What is Data Genie?   Quotables   “The biggest struggle for investors today isn’t financing—it’s finding quality leads in a low-inventory market.”   “Expired listings are gold. These homeowners wanted to sell but didn’t—meaning they’re motivated and open to creative deals.”   “Data is power. The right leads at the right time can make or break your real estate business.”   Links   Landvoice https://landvoice.com/srec   Real Estate On Your Terms and Deal Structure Overtime https://wickedsmartbooks.com/podcast   FREE Master’s Class https://wickedsmartacademy.com/mastersclass   FREE Strategy Session with Chris Pre https://smartrealestatecoach.com/chrisprecall   FREE Workshop https://smartrealestatecoach.com/pcws   QLS Homestudy Course https://wickedsmartacademy.com/course/qls-homestudy-4   Investor Resources https://smartrealestatecoach.com/resources   3 Paydays Apprentice https://smartrealestatecoach.com/apprentice-pod   In the Trenches Bootcamp https://smartrealestatecoach.com/ittb-pod   REI Blackbook https://smartrealestatecoach.com/REIBB-DD

    38 min

  6. FEB 5

    Episode 493: How to Build Wealth in Real Estate on Autopilot with Brett Riggins

    In this episode of the Smart Real Estate Coach Podcast, I sit down with Brett Riggins, founder of Connect Homebuyers and Physician Wealth Systems. Brett has navigated over $20 million in real estate transactions and weathered multiple market cycles. We explore the mindset shifts behind his success, lessons from wins and failures, and how he helps physicians and high-income earners build wealth through turnkey real estate investments.   Brett shares insights on the power of the right connections, overcoming time and money hurdles, and the value of imperfect action. Whether you’re a new or seasoned investor, this episode will challenge you to rethink your approach to business and life.   Key Talking Points of the Episode   00:00 Introduction 03:23 Who is Brett Riggins? 06:23 The spark behind Physician Wealth Systems 07:27 Why mindset is the foundation of success 09:30 How the people around you shape your growth 11:20 Overcoming common investor challenges: Time, money, and analysis paralysis 14:30 Brett’s biggest struggles and wins in business in 2024 18:40 Stackable returns: The four pillars of long-term real estate wealth 24:05 Choosing the right markets to invest in 26:05 Shifting your mindset to see opportunities everywhere 27:10 Get in touch with Brett and his team   Quotables   “Change your mind, change your life. Everything we do starts with a thought.”   “Imperfect action is still action. You don’t need it to be perfect to make progress.”   “Simple exposure to the right people can create inflection points that change your life.”   Links   Physician Wealth Systems https://physicianwealthsystems.com/   Real Estate Mogul, M.D. https://realestatemogulmd.com/about-us/   Real Estate On Your Terms and Deal Structure Overtime https://wickedsmartbooks.com/podcast   FREE Master’s Class https://wickedsmartacademy.com/mastersclass   FREE Strategy Session with Chris Pre https://smartrealestatecoach.com/chrisprecall   FREE Workshop https://smartrealestatecoach.com/pcws   QLS Homestudy Course https://wickedsmartacademy.com/course/qls-homestudy-4   Investor Resources https://smartrealestatecoach.com/resources   3 Paydays Apprentice https://smartrealestatecoach.com/apprentice-pod   In the Trenches Bootcamp https://smartrealestatecoach.com/ittb-pod   REI Blackbook https://smartrealestatecoach.com/REIBB-DD

    32 min

  7. JAN 29

    Episode 492: Why Trademarking Is Crucial for Entrepreneurs and Real Estate Pros with Andrei Mincov

    In this episode of the Smart Real Estate Coach Podcast, we’re chatting with Andrei Mincov, founder and CEO of Trademark Factory, about why trademarking should be a top priority for entrepreneurs, real estate professionals, and small business owners like you. Andrei shares essential insights on when and how to trademark, the risks you face if you don’t secure your intellectual property, and actionable steps you can take to avoid costly litigation. You’ll also learn the critical difference between truly owning your brand and simply operating under it, giving you a clear roadmap to protect your business and secure its future success.   Tune in for actionable insights that will help you protect your business as you grow and succeed!   Key Talking Points of the Episode   00:00 Introduction 01:40 Who is Andrei Mincov? 03:54 Why trademarking matters for entrepreneurs 09:03 When and how to trademark your business 15:02 The 3 stages of brand protection 18:42 The cost and timeframe of trademarking 21:30 Why you need to take action early and protect your brand 23:23 The consequences of trademark infringement 25:01 Learn more about trademarking   Quotables   “A brand you can’t legally own is not a brand—it’s just a wish.”   “You can do it anytime, as long as it’s one day before somebody else does it.”   “Think of a trademark as an investment in your brand’s future, not just its present.”   Links   Trademark Factory https://smartrealestatecoach.com/trademarkfactory   Real Estate On Your Terms and Deal Structure Overtime https://wickedsmartbooks.com/podcast   FREE Master’s Class https://wickedsmartacademy.com/mastersclass   FREE Strategy Session with Chris Pre https://smartrealestatecoach.com/chrisprecall   FREE Workshop https://smartrealestatecoach.com/pcws   QLS Homestudy Course https://wickedsmartacademy.com/course/qls-homestudy-4   Investor Resources https://smartrealestatecoach.com/resources   3 Paydays Apprentice https://smartrealestatecoach.com/apprentice-pod   In the Trenches Bootcamp https://smartrealestatecoach.com/ittb-pod   REI Blackbook https://smartrealestatecoach.com/REIBB-DD

    29 min

  8. JAN 22

    Episode 491: The 3 Pillars of Note Investing & The Truth About Passive Returns and Risk with Jamie Bateman

    In this compelling episode of the Smart Real Estate Coach Podcast, you’ll hear from Jamie Bateman, a seasoned mortgage note investor and host of the From Adversity to Abundance podcast. Jamie shares how he transitioned from being an Army officer and W-2 employee to becoming a full-time entrepreneur in the mortgage note investment space.    He’ll guide you through the nuances of active versus passive investing, explain why building relationships is crucial in this niche market, and offer tips on managing risk effectively.    Whether you’re a seasoned investor or just starting out in creative financing, this episode is packed with actionable advice and inspiring insights tailored for you.   Key Talking Points of the Episode   00:00 Introduction 02:30 What Jamie is focused on today 03:10 The 3 pillars of note investing 05:04 Understanding active vs. passive mortgage note investing 06:32 How passive mortgage note investing works 08:20 Passive mortgage note investing returns 12:37 Lead sources for mortgage note investing 15:51 Labrador Lending mentorship program 17:43 Identifying your investing criteria for mortgage notes 21:46 The downsides or investing in mortgage notes 23:38 How to learn more about note investing from Jamie   Quotables   “It’s not all rainbows and butterflies and unicorns, and maybe it’s not for you.”   “Building that buy box is a critical piece for people because you need to be able to speak into the universe, this is what I’m looking for.”   “The inefficiencies are where opportunity lies.”   Links   Labrador Lending https://labradorlending.com/   From Adversity to Abundance https://adversity2abundance.com   Real Estate On Your Terms and Deal Structure Overtime https://wickedsmartbooks.com/podcast FREE Master’s Class https://wickedsmartacademy.com/mastersclass   FREE Strategy Session with Chris Pre https://smartrealestatecoach.com/chrisprecall   FREE Workshop https://smartrealestatecoach.com/pcws   QLS Homestudy Course https://wickedsmartacademy.com/course/qls-homestudy-4   Investor Resources https://smartrealestatecoach.com/resources   3 Paydays Apprentice https://smartrealestatecoach.com/apprentice-pod   In the Trenches Bootcamp https://smartrealestatecoach.com/ittb-pod   REI Blackbook https://smartrealestatecoach.com/REIBB-DD

    29 min
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    About

    Welcome to the Smart Real Estate Coach podcast. Our episodes are designed to help YOU reach the next level of real estate investing no matter where you are right now. To make this a reality, we lean into our 32+ years of experience, our huge network of experts, and our thriving community of Associates. With the right tools, the right education, and the right mindset YOU can take control of your financial future. At Smart Real Estate Coach, we empower individuals and families to create the life of their dreams through real estate. If you are an aspiring or seasoned real estate investor looking for a proven investment system, robust education, and a thriving support community, you have come to the right place. We share the best information from our own deals, our Associate's deals, and our guest experts, helping you potentially save hundreds of thousands of dollars in costly mistakes. And we know what the work actually takes. Between our Associates and our own deals, we’re still completing deals every month and control, at any given time between $60-100 million dollars worth of real estate with little to no money down. If you’re serious about making money in the world of real estate investment, then keep listening to learn more!

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