

The Best Ever CRE Show
Joe Fairless
Welcome to the Best Ever CRE Show, the world’s longest-running daily COMMERCIAL real estate podcast. Founded by Joe Fairless, a co-founder of Ashcroft Capital who went from buying $35,000 homes to controlling more than $2.7 billion in real estate assets, the Best Ever CRE Show provides commercial real estate expert insights, education, and timely information to our community of active and passive investors who want to build wealth, build a legacy, and do more good in the world.
So if you want the real stories behind the good, the bad, and the worst ever deals — plus, insights into what really goes on in commercial real estate investing — you’re in the right place. Our hosts interview commercial real estate experts every day to uncover secrets and strategies YOU can use to become a better, more informed investor. This is the Best Ever CRE show.
So if you want the real stories behind the good, the bad, and the worst ever deals — plus, insights into what really goes on in commercial real estate investing — you’re in the right place. Our hosts interview commercial real estate experts every day to uncover secrets and strategies YOU can use to become a better, more informed investor. This is the Best Ever CRE show.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Nov 5, 2023 • 18min
JF3349: How to Anticipate and Deal with Surprise Vacancies | Bonus Operations ft. Slocomb Reed
Bonus Operations is a series hosted by apartment owner/operator and Best Ever Show host, Slocomb Reed. In each five- to ten-minute episode, Slocomb provides his top takes for executing your business plan and maintaining cash flow. In this episode, Slocomb Reed discusses the crucial signs that property owners and real estate investors should be aware of during the due diligence period when acquiring new apartment buildings. Reed shares 12 red flags that may indicate tenants are likely to vacate soon after the transition in ownership or management. These flags include late rent payments, a lack of concern for property maintenance, sparse furniture in units, intentional damage, subletting without permission, vacant apartments listed on the rent roll, unauthorized pets, and more. Reed also delves into the significance of non-English speaking tenants within migrant communities and how their relationships with landlords can impact occupancy. Click here to learn more about our sponsors: BV Captial CRE Daily BAM Capital Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nov 4, 2023 • 28min
JF3348: David Lilley - How This Operator Gets a 40%+ Average IRR for His Investors
In this episode, we dive deep into the world of multifamily real estate with David Lilley, the CEO of Reap Capital. David shares his journey from single-family rentals to becoming a successful multifamily investor, emphasizing the importance of creativity and tenacity. He provides valuable insights into his unique approach of vertically integrating property management and construction into his investments. Discover how David has consistently achieved impressive returns for his investors and what it takes to thrive in the multifamily market. Key Takeaways: Creativity and Tenacity: David emphasizes the importance of thinking outside the box and approaching real estate investments with creativity and tenacity. These qualities have allowed him to succeed and stand out in a competitive market. Vertical Integration: By bringing property management and construction in-house, David has gained more control over his investments and improved communication within his team. This approach has proven to be a key factor in his success. Philanthropy and Giving Back: David discusses his commitment to philanthropy, particularly his support for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. He shares his plans for future nonprofit involvement, highlighting the importance of giving back to the community. David Lilley | Real Estate Background CEO, Reap Capital Portfolio: Multiple properties in Texas Based in: Dallas, Tx Say hi to him at: ReapCap.com Best Ever Book: The Hands Off Investor by Brian Burke Greatest Lesson: Your network is your net worth. Click here to learn more about our sponsors: BV Captial CRE Daily BAM Capital Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nov 3, 2023 • 28min
JF3347: Thomas Lorini - Secrets to Cross-Border Real Estate Success
In this episode, we delve into the world of cross-border real estate investment with Thomas Lorini, CEO of VentureCo Capital. Thomas shares his experiences and strategies for investing in commercial real estate across the United States and Canada. From diversifying portfolios to vetting partners, his insights are valuable for both seasoned investors and newcomers looking to explore opportunities beyond their borders. Key Takeaways: Diversification Across Markets: Thomas emphasizes the importance of diversifying investment portfolios across different markets. While many investors focus on hot markets like California, Thomas has found success in the often-overlooked Midwest, where cap rates are more favorable. He highlights how markets like Cleveland and Columbus are experiencing significant appreciation, offering unique opportunities for cash flow and growth. Partnering for Success: To mitigate risks and ensure success, Thomas stresses the significance of vetting operators and partners carefully. Whether it's partnering with experienced operators in specific markets or collaborating with developers, understanding the track record and capabilities of your partners is crucial. This due diligence helps protect both your and your investors' capital. Guidance for Canadian Investors: Thomas offers valuable advice for Canadian investors looking to venture into the U.S. real estate market. He recommends exploring two paths: slow and steady or strategic partnerships with experienced operators. Financing challenges for foreign investors often necessitate careful planning, and Thomas underscores the importance of understanding the differences in regulations, financing options, and tax considerations between the two countries. Thomas Lorini | Real Estate Background CEO of VentureCo Capital and Real Estate Coach Portfolio: 400+ multifamily units in a variety of markets across US and Canada Based in: Irvine, CA Say hi to him at: LinkedIn Instagram venturecocapital.com Thomalorini.com Best Ever Book: The Bible Greatest Lesson: Surround yourself with people that are better and more skilled than you. Click here to learn more about our sponsors: BV Captial CRE Daily Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nov 2, 2023 • 10min
JF3346: 5 Types of Multifamily Investment Business Plans | Passive Investor Tips ft. Travis Watts
Passive Investor Tips is a weekly series hosted by full-time passive investor and Best Ever Show host, Travis Watts. In each bite-sized episode, Travis breaks down passive investor topics, simplifying the philosophy and mindset while providing tactical, valuable information on how to be a passive investor. In this episode, Travis dives into the different types of multifamily business plans, sharing the risks and needs of each, including core asset, core plus, value add, opportunistic, and ground up construction. Click here to learn more about our sponsors: BV Captial CRE Daily Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nov 1, 2023 • 27min
JF3345: Ben Bauer - A Real Estate Attorney Shares the Biggest Deal Structure Mistakes
This episode is brought to you by Presario Ventures, a private equity real estate firm based in the booming Austin, Texas, market. To learn how to invest in the future of Texas with Presario Ventures, visit info.presarioventures.com/bestever. In this episode, we sit down with Ben Bauer, a seasoned real estate investor and attorney, to explore the intricacies of commercial real estate investing. With a wealth of experience in both residential and commercial properties, Ben shares valuable insights on deal structures, seller financing, and the impact of early exposure to real estate. Key Takeaways: Deal Structuring Wisdom: Ben highlights the significance of sound deal structures, particularly in complex commercial real estate transactions. He emphasizes the importance of seeking legal counsel and networking within local real estate investor groups to make informed decisions. Seller Financing Strategies: When it comes to seller financing, Ben stresses the importance of detailed contracts. He recommends specifying all terms and attaching draft notes and mortgages as exhibits to the purchase contract. This transparency ensures all parties are on the same page, reducing potential conflicts down the line. Early Exposure to Real Estate: Reflecting on his own upbringing around real estate, Ben underscores the value of exposing young minds to entrepreneurial thinking. Encouraging questions and fostering an environment that promotes independent thinking can lay the foundation for a future in real estate or any entrepreneurial venture. Ben Bauer | Real Estate Background Real estate investment lawyer of The Bauer Firm, LLC Portfolio: 8 units from single family rentals and small multifamily properties Based in: Cincinnati, Ohio Say hi to him at: thebauerfirm.com Best Ever Book: Snow Crash by Neal Stephenson Greatest Lesson: Success is all about mindset, courage, and confidence. Click here to learn more about our sponsors: Presario Ventures Rentec Direct Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oct 31, 2023 • 39min
JF3344: Bob Thomas - Why You Should Consider Being Asset Agnostic
Bob Thomas, a seasoned investor with over a decade of experience, shares insights on forming strategic partnerships, setting ambitious goals, being asset agnostic, and the importance of financial education in real estate investing.

Oct 30, 2023 • 46min
JF3343: Jay Balekar - Strategies for Growing 400+ Units in Two Years
This episode is brought to you by Presario Ventures, a private equity real estate firm based in the booming Austin, Texas, market. To learn how to invest in the future of Texas with Presario Ventures, visit info.presarioventures.com/bestever. In this episode, we delve deep into the world of commercial real estate with Jay Balekar, a seasoned investor who has scaled his portfolio significantly in just two years. Jay shares valuable insights into strategies for success, market conditions, and tackling the affordability crisis. Whether you're a seasoned commercial real estate investor or just starting, you won't want to miss this conversation. Key Takeaways: Adapting to Market Conditions: Jay emphasizes the importance of staying adaptable in today's commercial real estate market, which is seeing rising costs, inflation concerns, and shifting rent dynamics. His strategy involves being patient, underwriting deals carefully, and maintaining a focus on operations to navigate these challenges effectively. Solving the Affordability Crisis: Addressing the affordability crisis in real estate requires more than just handing out subsidies to tenants. Jay suggests incentivizing developers and private investors to create affordable housing by reducing construction costs in targeted areas. He argues that this approach can lead to sustainable, financially viable solutions. The Power of Delegation: Jay highlights the value of delegation in real estate investing. He recommends focusing on your strengths, leveraging your team, and improving operational efficiency. By doing so, investors can scale their portfolios and make more informed decisions in the complex world of commercial real estate. Jay Belekar | Real Estate Background Founder of Compounding Capital Group Based in: Cincinnati, OH Say hi to him at: LinkedIn Best Ever Book: Who Not How by Dan Sullivan Greatest Lesson: Be careful who you listen to, which guru you choose, which books you read. Don't just look at those feel good YouTube videos about how in one year people quit their jobs and are now driving Lamborghinis. That does not happen. That's not sustainable. So you gotta put in the work. Click here to learn more about our sponsors: Presario Ventures Rentec Direct Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oct 29, 2023 • 24min
JF3342: Andrew Freed - How to Choose a Syndication Structure
This episode is brought to you by Presario Ventures, a private equity real estate firm based in the booming Austin, Texas, market. To learn how to invest in the future of Texas with Presario Ventures, visit info.presarioventures.com/bestever. In this episode, Andrew Freed, an experienced commercial real estate investor, shares his journey from a one-bedroom condo owner to managing a diverse portfolio of multifamily properties. He discusses his innovative syndication approach, lessons learned from past investments, and strategies for maximizing returns while mitigating risks. Key Takeaways: Syndication Strategies: Andrew explains the intricacies of syndicating a diverse portfolio of 12 properties with 65 units. He delves into the importance of negotiating a partial release clause with lenders, which allows for the sale of individual properties and offers greater flexibility in managing debt. Investor-Focused Approach: Andrew's syndication model prioritizes investor returns. He outlines a transparent and straightforward profit-sharing structure, with investors receiving a preferred return and a substantial portion of profits, resulting in higher internal rates of return (IRRs). Continuous Self-Development: Andrew emphasizes the significance of self-discovery and personal development in the entrepreneurial journey. He encourages aspiring commercial real estate investors to focus on becoming the best versions of themselves to achieve their investment goals. Andrew Freed | Real Estate Background Founder of Freedom Management Portfolio: 95 Units - 65 units in New Bedford MA, 29 units in Worcester, 1 condo in Boston Based in: Worcester, MA Say hi to him at: LinkedIn Instagram Best Ever Book: The Wealthy Gardener by John Soforic Greatest Lesson: Have an endless desire for self-development and self-discovery. Click here to learn more about our sponsors: Presario Ventures Rentec Direct Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oct 28, 2023 • 31min
JF3341: Tim Little - Helping Military Veterans Diversify and Grow Their Wealth
This episode is brought to you by Presario Ventures, a private equity real estate firm based in the booming Austin, Texas, market. To learn how to invest in the future of Texas with Presario Ventures, visit info.presarioventures.com/bestever. In this episode, Ash Patel interviews Tim Little, a seasoned commercial real estate investor and founder of Zana Investments. Tim shares his journey from the military to real estate investing and offers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities in the commercial multifamily space. Key Takeaways: The Importance of Partner Selection: Tim emphasizes the significance of vetting potential partners when considering long-term commitments in real estate deals. He highlights the need for aligned values and the ability to work cohesively with partners over extended periods. Managing Investor Expectations Amid Rising Rates: Tim discusses the challenges of managing investor expectations when cash flow is impacted by rising interest rates. He stresses the importance of transparent communication with investors, explaining the reasons behind temporary suspension of distributions and the potential impact on long-term returns. Diversification and Exploring Other Asset Classes: Tim acknowledges the changing landscape of commercial real estate and the need for diversification. He shares his interest in exploring alternative asset classes like express car washes and self-storage. Tim highlights the importance of educating investors when diversifying into new asset types. Tim Little | Real Estate Background Founder of ZANA Investments Portfolio: 693 co-owned units valued at over $90M Based in: Tampa, FL Say hi to him at: LinkedIn zanainvestments.com Best Ever Book: Atomic Habits by James Clear Greatest Lesson: Vet your partners sufficiently. These are 3 to 10 year commitments, so you not only need to get along with them, your values need to be aligned and you need to know that you can work with these people for the long haul. Click here to learn more about our sponsors: Presario Ventures Rentec Direct Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oct 27, 2023 • 34min
JF3340: Kurt Weil - Insights into the Current Lending Landscape
This episode is brought to you by Presario Ventures, a private equity real estate firm based in the booming Austin, Texas, market. To learn how to invest in the future of Texas with Presario Ventures, visit info.presarioventures.com/bestever. Slocomb Reed hosts seasoned commercial real estate investor, Kurt Weil. The duo delves into the intricacies of syndications, the pitfalls of partnerships, and the changing dynamics of commercial real estate investments in today's fast-paced world. For anyone diving into commercial real estate or looking to refine their strategies, this conversation with Kurt is a goldmine of actionable advice. Key Takeaways: Adaptability is Key: As the commercial real estate landscape evolves, the most successful investors will be those who remain adaptable and open to learning. Outline Partnership Expectations Upfront: Avoid the common pitfall of mismatched partner expectations by discussing responsibilities and roles clearly before striking a deal. Networking is Essential: Despite the digital age, word of mouth and personal connections remain invaluable. Whether it's through platforms like LinkedIn or personal contacts, maintaining a robust network can open doors to hidden opportunities. Kurt Weil | Real Estate Background Founder of Incline Commercial Portfolio: Multifamily and industrial flex Based in: Cincinnati, OH Say hi to him at: LinkedIn Best Ever Book: Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki Greatest Lesson: Choose your partner wisely, and define expectations. Click here to learn more about our sponsors: Presario Ventures Rentec Direct Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices


