Let’s be honest—real estate investing is a team sport and you’re not meant to go it alone. In this episode of our Financing & Funding Series, Suzanne and I break down the ins and outs of partnering with other investors—how to do it right, what to watch out for, and why the right partner can 10x your portfolio and fast-track your success.
We talk through the good, the bad, and the ugly—from finding complementary skill sets, setting clear legal boundaries, and protecting your downside, to spotting red flags and knowing when it’s time to walk away. Whether you’re just getting started or scaling to multifamily, this episode is your full roadmap to making partnerships work without drama or disaster.
Creative financing isn’t just a buzzword—it’s one of the most powerful ways investors can scale smarter and faster. In this episode, Suzanne and I dive into a full breakdown of alternative funding strategies that help you grow without the traditional barriers.
We explore equitable partnerships, private lending, crowdfunding, DSCR loans, BRRRR strategies, seller financing, and even using your IRA to fund deals. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow with flexibility, this conversation is packed with real-world insights, practical tips, and the exact steps you need to make creative financing work for you.
Welcome back to Uncontested Investing! In this episode, we sit down with the powerhouse Tami Bonnell, Co-Chair of EXIT Realty, whose journey from cleaning homes at age 11 to leading one of the most impactful real estate organizations in North America is nothing short of inspiring.
Tami shares her story of grit, purpose, and people-first leadership—covering everything from her first sale at 13 to mentoring investors and agents through market cycles, building generational wealth, and finding alignment in life and business. We also dive into EXIT’s innovative residual income model, creative financing solutions for investors, and how martial arts helped shape her mindset.
Whether you’re a seasoned investor, real estate agent, or aspiring entrepreneur, this episode is packed with powerful insight and value-driven strategy.
Welcome back to Uncontested Investing! In this final episode of our Foundational Series, we’re diving into real estate financing—the key to scaling your investment portfolio successfully. If you think bank loans are your only option, think again!
In this episode, we break down the best funding options for real estate investors, including private lending, leveraging your portfolio, DSCR loans, and more. We also bust the biggest myths around hard money vs. private lending and share strategies to build strong financial partnerships that will keep your deals flowing.
Whether you’re new to investing or looking for smarter ways to finance your next project, this episode is packed with insider knowledge to help you succeed!
01:00 The rise of private lending & how it has evolved
03:20 Hard money vs. private money: Breaking the stigma
04:24 Building strong relationships with private lenders
05:49 Leveraging your current portfolio for funding
08:30 Why private lending is faster & more efficient than traditional banks
10:05 The role of financial advisors in real estate investing
11:45 Finding funding at local REIAs (Real Estate Investor Associations)
13:17 Mixing private lending, bank loans, and IRA funds
15:24 How DSCR loans work & why they’re a game-changer
17:44 Why private lenders care about your long-term success
Quotables
“Private lending isn’t like the old days of hard money. It’s evolved into a regulated, investor-friendly industry where lenders actually want you to succeed.”
“Your current portfolio is more powerful than you think—cash-out refinancing can fund your next deal without needing new capital.”
“The smartest investors don’t rely on just one funding source. They mix private lending, bank loans, and even retirement funds to build a scalable portfolio.”
Expanding into a new real estate market can be a game-changer or a costly mistake—it all comes down to having the right strategy. In this episode of Uncontested Investing, we break down how to pick the right market, build a strong local team, and avoid common pitfalls when scaling your portfolio.
We’re talking competition levels, short-term rentals, student housing, and the key data tools that give you an edge. Plus, we’ll cover why emotional investing is dangerous and how to stay disciplined with your buy box.
If you’re looking to grow your investments the right way, this episode is packed with real-world insights to help you expand with confidence.
In this foundational episode of Uncontested Investing, we take a deep dive into real estate investment strategies—breaking down the key differences between fix-and-flip vs. buy-and-hold and discussing when it makes sense to transition into multifamily properties. With market conditions constantly shifting, it’s critical to understand which approach aligns with your goals while analyzing trends, leveraging networking, and balancing risks and rewards in today’s real estate landscape.
Whether you’re a new investor looking to take that first step or a seasoned pro scaling your portfolio, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you make smarter, more strategic investment decisions.
In this episode of Uncontested Investing, we sit down with Yovonne Kenny, Executive Vice President of Preferred Floor and Tile and co-founder of the first National Rental Home Council in the Carolinas. Yovonne is a trailblazer in real estate and flooring, with over a decade of experience in business development and leadership. She shares how strategic networking, mentorship, and bold decisions helped her rise from sales and marketing to leading Preferred Floor and Tile as a nationally recognized brand in a male-dominated industry.
We discuss goal-setting, authentic relationships, and aligning personal and professional growth. Yovonne shares insights on mentorship, leading Women in SFR, and empowering future female leaders. This episode is full of actionable tips for scaling your business and influence!
In this special episode, we’re taking a look back at some of the most insightful and impactful moments from 2024 on the Uncontested Investing podcast. From lessons in leadership to strategies for sustainable growth, we’ve compiled a highlight reel of expert advice and candid stories that resonated with listeners throughout the year. Whether you’re an experienced investor or just getting started, these standout moments will provide valuable takeaways to guide your journey.
Tune in to hear guests share their experiences on the importance of authenticity in business, the power of local market knowledge, and the evolving role of analytics in real estate investing. Plus, don’t miss the powerful reflections on overcoming challenges and the timeless wisdom of building a legacy for future generations.
[1:18] – The power of authentic engagement on LinkedIn and why being a “cheerleader” for others can fuel success.
[2:24] – How early experiences with team sports shaped a leadership style focused on encouragement and authenticity.
[3:42] – The importance of building a financial legacy for future generations.
[4:01] – Why diversifying your business channels is crucial for long-term success.
[5:00] – Learning by doing: the unmatched value of hands-on experience in real estate investing.
[6:15] – Using social media as an educational and relationship-building tool, not a sales platform.
[7:37] – The relationship between company culture and customer satisfaction.
[10:28] – Lessons from the 2008 crash and the enduring strength of private capital.
[12:36] – The role of networking and mentorship in long-term success.
[14:15] – Insights on market trends and predictions for 2025.
Key Takeaways from Our Guests:
• Authenticity is a Business Superpower: Genuine, positive engagement in your industry—whether in person or on social media—can foster strong relationships and create lasting goodwill.
• Plan, Diversify, and Execute: Success requires a clear vision, a strategic plan, and a willingness to adapt to changing conditions while maintaining diverse business channels.
• Build a Legacy with Passive Income: Real estate investments can provide not just wealth, but also the freedom to give back to your community and support meaningful causes.
• Experience is the Best Teacher: No amount of research can replace the lessons learned from hands-on experience. Get out there, take risks, and learn from both successes and setbacks.
• Educate, Don’t Sell: Social media should be a tool for education and community-building, not just a platform for pitching your services. Lead with value to build trust.
• Company Culture Drives Success: Employees who feel empowered and valued are more engaged and provide better service to clients, directly impacting the bottom line.
• Adaptability is Essential in Real Estate: The 2008 financial crisis taught us that downturns are inevitable, but businesses that understand market fundamentals and remain adaptable can weather any storm.
• Local Knowledge is a Competitive Advantage: Starting in your local market builds credibility, helps you identify opportunities earlier, and can provide a strong foundation for expansion.
• Networking and Mentorship Open Doors: Surround yourself with industry peers, attend events, and always be willing to share your knowledge. The more you give, the more you’ll gain.
• Market Trends Are Shifting: With interest rates expected to ease in 2025, there could be increased investment activity and more opportunities for growth.
In this special compilation episode of Uncontested Investing, we’re bringing you the best Deal Maker, Deal Breaker moments from the past year. Our guests have shared incredible insights on pivotal career moments, lessons learned in real estate, finance, and entrepreneurship, and the mindset shifts that led to their biggest wins. From overcoming setbacks to recognizing make-or-break moments, this episode is packed with wisdom to help you navigate your own investment and business journey.
Whether you’re an investor, entrepreneur, or professional looking to level up, these stories will inspire you to take action, bet on yourself, and make smarter decisions in your career.
2024 was an incredible year filled with insights from top industry professionals, each sharing powerful strategies for financial success. In this special recap episode, we’re bringing you the best Money Making Minutes—quick, actionable advice to help you grow your wealth, optimize investments, and build a solid financial foundation. From leveraging AI for long-term business growth to mastering insurance coverage, 1031 exchanges, and the Profit First method, this episode is packed with expert knowledge you won’t want to miss.
We also dive into real estate investing strategies, the importance of flexibility in business, and why admitting what you don’t know can be a superpower. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, investor, or just looking to level up your money mindset, these insights will help you stay ahead of the game.
Episode Highlights
[00:00] Looking back on the best Money Making Minutes of 2024
[00:24] Using AI to predict market trends and future-proof your business
[01:51] The importance of understanding insurance and risk management
[03:56] A simple yet powerful strategy: The Profit First method for financial clarity
[07:17] The “CLEAN” method for smart real estate investing
[10:23] How 1031 exchanges can help you maximize investments and defer taxes
[11:47] Why a personalized routine beats the “hustle culture”
[12:30] The power of admitting what you don’t know to build credibility
[13:56] The mindset shift: Diversification, betting on yourself, and staying adaptable
5 Key Takeaways
1. Use AI for long-term market predictions – Successful businesses stay ahead by analyzing trends 5-10 years into the future, not just short-term market shifts.
2. Know your insurance inside and out – Understanding your coverage and managing risk proactively can save you from costly mistakes.
3. The Profit First method creates financial stability – Setting up separate bank accounts for income, profit, taxes, and expenses helps ensure long-term profitability.
4. Real estate investing requires a strategic approach – The “CLEAN” method (Crime, Economics, Education, Location, Affordability, Need) helps identify strong investment opportunities.
5. Success comes from adaptability and knowledge – Being flexible in your strategy, admitting what you don’t know, and betting on yourself can lead to long-term financial success.
