Welcome back to Uncontested Investing! In this episode, I sit down with Rebecca Smith, Vice President of Business Development at Radian Real Estate Management, to explore her incredible 25-year journey in real estate and mortgage finance. Rebecca shares her experience in navigating the ever-evolving industry, including her role in pioneering single-family rental innovations and leading client-driven solutions.

Rebecca also gives us a glimpse into her strategies for leadership, fostering relationships, and adapting to shifting market trends. Whether you’re an investor looking to sharpen your edge or just curious about the intricacies of real estate investing, this conversation is packed with actionable insights and inspiration.

Timeline Summary:

[0:00] – Introduction

[1:15] – Rebecca shares how she entered the real estate industry and her early career in Salt Lake City.

[3:05] – The real estate boom in Salt Lake City and how it shaped her perspective.

[4:00] – Transitioning to Radian in 2008 and finding opportunities during a financial crisis.

[6:00] – Rebecca’s leadership approach and her commitment to solving clients’ problems.

[9:17] – Money-Making Minute: The importance of adaptability and staying focused in the industry.

[11:16] – Keys to success in REO management and navigating the complexities of investment properties.

[16:21] – The role of mentorship in career development and Rebecca’s advice to young professionals.

[19:42] – Rebecca’s passion for live music and how it keeps her grounded amid a demanding career.

[24:00] – Final advice for investors and a reminder of Radian’s diverse service offerings.

5 Key Takeaways from This Episode:

1. Adaptability is Crucial

Rebecca emphasized the importance of staying flexible and adaptable in the ever-changing real estate market. Whether it’s shifting investment strategies or expanding services, being able to pivot is key to long-term success.

2. Leadership Through Example

As VP of Business Development, Rebecca prioritizes leading by example, focusing on her team’s success and fostering client relationships. She highlights the value of collaboration, innovation, and listening to client needs.

3. Diverse Industry Experience Adds Value

Rebecca’s extensive background—spanning mortgage servicing, asset management, and client relations—has allowed her to develop a well-rounded perspective, enabling her to craft tailored solutions for investors and clients alike.

4. Customer Service is Key to Building Trust

Treating clients’ assets as if they were her own is a cornerstone of Rebecca’s approach. Thoughtful communication, timeliness, and dedication to exceeding expectations set her apart in the industry.

5. Networking Drives Opportunities

Rebecca underscores the importance of trade shows and networking for fostering relationships and unlocking new opportunities. Engaging with peers and clients at industry events helps build trust and expand professional reach.

Links & Resources:

• Radian Real Estate Management: https://www.radian.com/

Closing Thoughts:

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to the Uncontested Investing podcast! Your support helps us continue to bring industry-leading insights to your feed. Connect with us on social media and stay tuned for our next episode.

In this episode of Uncontested Investing, we’re sitting down with Jonas Bordo, CEO of Dwellsy, to explore how his innovative platform is transforming the rental experience for both renters and landlords. Jonas recounts his journey from managing 60,000 rental units to founding Dwellsy, a startup prioritizing transparency and innovation in the rental market.

Jonas also introduces exciting new tools like CompIQ, a customizable comparables engine for investors. Whether you’re a renter, landlord, or real estate investor, this episode provides actionable insights and inspiration!

Key Talking Points of the Episode

00:00 Introduction

00:30 Who is Jonas Bordo?

02:27 How Jonas balances the company health and culture

04:02 The purpose behind Dwellsy

05:29 What Dwellsy’s mission statement means

09:03 The importance of innovation and openness in real estate

11:42 Leveraging data and technology to serve the rental market

13:35 What it is like to operate Dwellsy in the Bay Area

15:02 How did renters respond to Dwellsy’s services?

16:21 Writing Everything You Need to Know About Renting But Didn't Know to Ask

20:41 The pivotal moment that changed Jonas’ professional career

22:53 Jonas’ rise to fame through Dwellsy

25:37 The value of coaching and mentorship to an individual’s success

27:42 The benefits of trade shows in real estate

29:12 The future of Dwellsy

31:10 What is Jonas passionate about outside of real estate?

33:36 How to get in touch with Jonas and the Dwellsy team

Quotables

“Renting should be a great experience, but for most people, it’s not. We’re here to change that.”

“Your network and mentors shape your success. Always look for opportunities to pay it forward.”

“Dwellsy is more than a marketplace; we’re a data company that provides tools to transform how landlords and renters connect.”

Links

Dwellsy

https://www.dwellsy.com

CompIQ
https://www.dwellsy.com/compiq

Everything You Need to Know About Renting But Didn't Know to Ask

https://www.amazon.com/Everything-Need-About-Renting-Didnt/dp/1637743920

RCN Capital

https://www.rcncapital.com/podcast

https://www.instagram.com/rcn_capital/

info@rcncapital.com

REI INK

https://rei-ink.com/

In this episode, we sit down with Levi Blum, Chief Financial Officer of My Partner Loan, to explore his 15+ years of experience in the mortgage industry and real estate investing. Levi shares his journey from buying duplexes to becoming a private money lender, offering insights into customized loan solutions and how treating clients as business partners drives success.

Tune in to learn actionable strategies for financing your business or real estate goals and how personalized financial solutions can make all the difference!

Key Talking Points of the Episode

00:00 Introduction

01:11 How Levi got into real estate investing

03:47 How Levi’s professional background helped him in real estate

05:30 Providing solutions for small businesses

06:55 How My Partner Loan grew to the business it is today

09:43 The power of networking through social media in real estate

12:35 The best way to approach social media as an entrepreneur

15:18 Why Levi decided to start an educational blog

17:37 The benefits of trade shows for real estate investors

19:36 How My Partner Loan takes care of its customers

22:37 The most pivotal moment in Levi’s career

25:13 Getting education through Youtube

26:41 What the future looks like for My Partner Loan

28:08 What Levi is passionate about outside of real estate

30:43 How you can connect with Levi

Quotables

“You have to build trust. People wanna know that you are real and that’s why you basically have to post a lot – a little bit about yourself, a little bit to uncover your life and your family.”

“I figured they have to learn, they have to realize how it’s not rocket science to invest in real estate. You just have to be in touch with the right people.”

“What I’ve realized in financing, when you finance a property purchase or when you’re refinancing, when there’s too many people involved in the transaction a lot of things fall through the cracks.”

Links

Levi Blum

https://www.linkedin.com/in/levi-blum-3630b9189/

leviblum@mypartnerloan.com

My Partner Loan

https://www.mypartnerloan.com

RCN Capital

https://www.rcncapital.com/podcast

https://www.instagram.com/rcn_capital/

info@rcncapital.com

REI INK

https://rei-ink.com/

In this episode, we sit down with John ‘Jack’ Kiley, CPA and managing partner of MidAtlantic IRA, LLC, to explore the power of self-directed IRAs in building wealth. With over 30 years of experience in public accounting, Jack shares his expertise in tax strategies, retirement planning, and financial growth for high-net-worth individuals and closely held businesses.

Tune in to learn how Jack combines his roles as a CPA, entrepreneur, and real estate investor to help clients unlock new opportunities through self-directed retirement strategies!

Key Talking Points of the Episode

00:00 Introduction

01:20 How Jack got into real estate investing

02:51 The benefits of Jack’s financial background in real estate

04:02 Real estate strategies that worked for Jack

05:16 How new investors can succeed in real estate

07:01 What makes Jack Kiley successful?

08:59 The story behind Midatlantic IRA
10:22 What it’s been like to build the Midatlantic IRA team

12:00 What self-direction is really about

13:14 How Midatlantic IRA is providing education to individuals

14:32 What people in strategy groups learn from Jack and his team

16:02 Why it’s important to understand how self-direction works

17:11 What makes Jack an expert in self-directed IRAs

19:33 The most pivotal moments in Jack’s career

21:02 How networking has helped Jack in growing Midatlantic IRA

23:14 How mentorship has impacted Jack’s success

25:26 What the future looks like for Midatlantic IRA

26:53 What Jack is passionate about outside of real estate

28:25 How to get in touch with Jack and his team

Quotables

“I view myself as a generalist. I might not have the answer to something, but I probably know someone that does – connecting those dots is helpful.”

“You have to be self-sufficient. You have to build streams of cash flow. You have to be able to provide for yourself or not just earn a living, you have to have something else.”

“We help each other and I think that’s fairly common, quite frankly, in real estate.”

Links

Midatlantic IRA

https://www.midatlanticira.com

helloadmin@midatlanticira.com

RCN Capital

https://www.rcncapital.com/podcast

https://www.instagram.com/rcn_capital/

info@rcncapital.com

REI INK

https://rei-ink.com/

Justin Fordham, CEO of Fordham Enterprises, is revolutionizing real estate with cutting-edge financial and property technology, including 3D construction printing. With over 20 years of industry experience and a passion for innovation, Justin is on a mission to create sustainable and affordable housing solutions across the country.

Tune in to hear how he’s leveraging technology to transform the real estate landscape and what it means for the future of housing!

Key Talking Points of the Episode

00:00 Introduction

01:15 How Justin got into real estate investing

02:07 The story behind Fordham Enterprises

03:56 Managing a workforce in 3DCP

05:25 What “tech-to-title” means at Fordham Enterprises

07:12 How leveraging AI can help you plan for the future

09:34 What 3D construction printing is solving for the real estate market

12:37 3D construction printing for multifamily properties

13:49 The biggest challenges in 3D construction printing

14:56 How 3D construction printing creates more sustainable housing

16:44 What strategy works in educating people about 3D construction printing

18:02 Exploring opportunity zones for maximum impact and affordability

21:44 How Justin turned his deal breakers into deal makers

23:12 The role of mentorship in achieving success

25:00 Justin’s advice for new investors and entrepreneurs

26:21 Tips to help you get started in 3D construction printing

27:43 How Justin unwinds as the CEO of Fordham Enterprises

Quotables

“3D construction printing lets us build faster, more affordably, and more sustainably without sacrificing quality.”

“Your network is your net worth. Use it to expand your opportunities and resources.”

“Affordable housing is not just about cost; it’s about sustainability and accessibility for the long term.”

Links

Fordham Enterprises

https://www.fordham-enterprises.com/

RCN Capital

https://www.rcncapital.com/podcast

https://www.instagram.com/rcn_capital/

info@rcncapital.com

REI INK

https://rei-ink.com/

Uncontested Investing is always ready to answer your questions and provide insights on different topics that will help investors move the needle in their businesses in real estate. In this episode, we’re answering questions that you have sent in through the weeks to help you prepare for 2025 and what’s bound to come our way.

Listen now to learn more about the things you need to keep in mind as a real estate investor entering 2025, what new investors should understand as they enter the industry this coming year, and how you can make the most of your investments despite market cycles!

Key Talking Points of the Episode

00:00 Introduction

01:10 What factors will affect interest rates in 2025?

03:15 Who are the people who can help you in a competitive market?

06:37 What kind of properties should you go after in 2025?

08:05 Diversifying your portfolio in 2025

10:10 Investing in mixed-use properties in 2025

11:07 AI and technology for real estate investing

14:42 Networking in 2025

18:16 Local REIAs vs National Trade Shows

21:17 What services can help investors in competitive markets in 2025?

24:49 What is the most pivotal moment in my career?

27:07 What type of investments should new investors start with?

30:52 What Uncontested Investing episodes have the most helpful advice for investors?

Quotables

“For investors that have already seen and done a lot of different property types, this is a type of environment from an economy standpoint where you wanna start diversifying your portfolio.”

“AI is something that all investors should be taking advantage of. Technology can be one of your best friends in this industry.”

“The local REIAs are much more convenient for an investor, but trade shows are really where you can take your business to the next level.”

Links

From $0 to $135M in Lending: Building a Lending Empire in Just Two Years with Brian Valdivia

https://youtu.be/NgaNsCrXliY?si=L3zZDqV54yVtAQcN

Elevating Your Journey to Success through Mindset with Patrick Precourt

https://youtu.be/tV3_UD7uwBI?si=uPENnJpt3bP3V5Ku

Why "Perspective" Will Always Work for Investing in Real Estate Successfully with Tarik Turner

https://youtu.be/rDuI9fzhp3Y?si=ldjhA6-QVIcr0ihb

RCN Capital

https://www.rcncapital.com/podcast

https://www.instagram.com/rcn_capital/

info@rcncapital.com

Website: REI INK

https://rei-ink.com/

Ryan Deasy and Mike Doherty are the managing partners of Skytree Investments LLC, a private real estate investment firm based in Farmington, Connecticut. Ryan and Mike got into real estate investing for different reasons but came together ultimately for the same purpose – to grow and succeed through real estate investing.

From their first investments to building Skytree Investments, they reveal the lessons learned, the importance of partnerships, and how they scaled their business. They also dive into their favorite marketing tools and insights on navigating economic challenges. This episode is packed with actionable tips for anyone looking to make a mark in real estate!

Key Talking Points of the Episode

00:00 Introduction

01:45 How Ryan and Mike got into real estate investing

07:26 The beginning of Skytree Investments

12:20 How Ryan and Mike’s background helped them in real estate investing

18:27 What strategies help Ryan and Mike navigate market changes

25:15 The platforms that help Ryan and Mike find great deals

30:25 How Skytree’s marketing strategies help them stand out in the market

36:06 How hosting a podcast strengthens your brand

40:38 The most memorable and pivotal deals in Ryan and Mike’s journey

46:05 How having the right team members can help you scale successfully

49:06 Why bigger isn’t always better in real estate investing

51:08 What Ryan and Mike are passionate about outside of real estate

54:47 How you can learn more about Skytree Investments

Quotables

“Trust is the foundation of every successful partnership; without it, scaling is nearly impossible.”

“Someone will always need a roof over their head, no matter what the market does.”

“The real challenge isn’t finding the deals; it’s having the capital and the right partnerships to make them work.”

Links

Skytree Investments

https://www.skytreeinvestments.com

Sky’s The Limit

https://open.spotify.com/show/4RLz8Jy9AQKw6YjAwQ4qZV?si=435e35028e734826

Ryan Deasy

https://www.instagram.com/ryandeasyrei/

Mike Doherty

https://www.instagram.com/mikedohertyrealtor/

Deal Machine App

https://dealmachine.com

Launch Control

https://www.launchcontrol.us

MileIQ

https://www.mileiq.com

RCN Capital

https://www.rcncapital.com/podcast

https://www.instagram.com/rcn_capital/

info@rcncapital.com

Website: REI INK

https://rei-ink.com/

Brian Valdivia is the founder of Beltway Lending, a lending company focused on providing tailored financing solutions for real estate investors. Since founding Beltway Lending in 2022, Brian has scaled massively, with Beltway Lending originating $135 million in loans and his real estate portfolio growing to include 175 rental properties.

Listen now to learn more about Brian’s rapid growth in real estate, his strategy for success, and what you can do to replicate it!

Key Talking Points of the Episode

00:00 Introduction

01:49 What is Brian’s background?

04:27 What was Brian’s first real estate deal like?

07:00 Why is it beneficial to see behind the scenes as a new investor?

09:30 How did Brian’s background in finance help him transition to real estate?

12:19 What is it like for Brian to have Beltway Lending and still invest in real estate?

15:38 What has the past year been like for real estate investors and lenders?

17:55 What do investors need to keep in mind about interest rates?

19:45 How can you benefit from networking as a new investor?

23:41 What was one impactful connection Brian made from networking?

26:26 How does Brian evaluate deals for his own portfolio?

31:03 Where should new investors focus on investing first?

33:35 What are the factors that contribute to the success of Beltway Lending?

38:20 What was the biggest turning point in Brian’s career in real estate?

41:42 What are Brian’s long-term goals for Beltway Lending?

44:55 How does Brian balance Beltway Lending and his family life?

47:37 What is the value of having a partner in business?

50:10 What is Brian passionate about outside of business?

53:09 How can you get in touch with Brian?

Quotables

“Sometimes it’s really hard to get started, but the second that I made that offer and had it under contract, it’s like the mental block is gone.”

“The big thing is the conversations that you’re going to have everyday, it’s on-the-job training. I was learning to be a better investor and I didn’t even know it.”

“Help someone else get started and believe me, it’s gonna keep going. You’re gonna learn so much more just from teaching as well.”

Links

Instagram: Brian Valdivia

https://www.instagram.com/bval9/

Website: Beltway Lending

https://beltwaylending.com/

Website: RCN Capital

https://www.rcncapital.com/podcast

Instagram: RCN Capital

https://www.instagram.com/rcn_capital/

Website: REI INK

https://rei-ink.com/

Email: RCN Capital

info@rcncapital.com