Straight Up Chicago Investor

Luke Helliker is a buy and hold real estate investor that has leveraged networking, house hacking, and value-add strategies to build a successful portfolio. Luke kicks things off by sharing how he acquired his first house hack and provides insights on the ADU process that he used to add a third legal unit. He lays out top considerations when converting a basement into a dwelling unit including the top dollar items. Luke talks about getting a 4-unit acquisition to the finish line, despite it involving violations and a difficult seller. Throughout this episode, Luke demonstrates how holding real estate for the long term has built him great wealth and how staying active in the market is the key to success! If you enjoy today's episode, please leave us a review and share with someone who may also find value in this content! ============= Connect with Mark and Tom: StraightUpChicagoInvestor.com Email the Show: StraightUpChicagoInvestor@gmail.com Properties for Sale on the North Side? We want to buy them. Email: StraightUpChicagoInvestor@gmail.com Have a vacancy? We can place your next tenant and give you back 30-40 hours of your time. Learn more: GCRealtyInc.com/tenant-placement Has Property Mgmt become an opportunity cost for you? Let us lower your risk and give you your time back to grow. Learn more: GCRealtyinc.com ============= Guest: Luke Helliker Link: Luke Helliker - DocuSign | LinkedIn Link: EUBA Link: SUCI Ep 345 - Joey Turano Link: SUCI Ep 354 - Jake Fugman & Mike Scanlon Link: SUCI Ep 389 - Sebastian Mysliwiec Link: Rich Dad Poor Dad (Book Recommendation) Guest Questions: 03:15 Housing Provider Tip - Ensure to perform periodic checks on properties to identify issues that tenants may not bring up! 05:03 Intro to our guest, Luke Helliker! 13:19 Luke's first deal: a 2-unit house hack! 20:18 How to leverage the ADU process. 27:20 Funding an ADU project. 41:09 Navigating investing with your significant other. 43:15 Acquiring a 4-unit building in a competitive market! 58:47 Lessons learned on the 4-unit acquisition. 65:30 Luke's next investment targets. 66:19 What is your competitive advantage? 67:15 One piece of advice for new investors. 67:59 What do you do for fun? 69:19 Good book, podcast, or self development activity that you would recommend? 70:01 Local Network Recommendation? 70:30 How can the listeners learn more about you and provide value to you? ----------------- Production House: Flint Stone Media Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2025.

Shawn Good is a seasoned attorney and real estate investor with vast experience acquiring and stabilizing off-market real estate. Shawn kicks things off by discussing his first few deals which included a condo and an 8-unit building. He shares some funny stories on unfair partnerships he's been a part of and important points on due diligence when acquiring a property. Shawn explains how joining Collective Genius helped him take his law practice and direct to seller marketing to the next level. He closes with his 5-year plan and hilarious real estate horror stories! If you enjoy today's episode, please leave us a review and share with someone who may also find value in this content! ============= Connect with Mark and Tom: StraightUpChicagoInvestor.com Email the Show: StraightUpChicagoInvestor@gmail.com Properties for Sale on the North Side? We want to buy them. Email: StraightUpChicagoInvestor@gmail.com Have a vacancy? We can place your next tenant and give you back 30-40 hours of your time. Learn more: GCRealtyInc.com/tenant-placement Has Property Mgmt become an opportunity cost for you? Let us lower your risk and give you your time back to grow. Learn more: GCRealtyinc.com ============= Guest: Shawn Good, Good Law Group Link: SUCI Ep 292 - Dorian Bezanis Link: The Collective Genius Podcast Link: The Charisma Myth (Book Recommendation) Guest Questions: 02:06 Housing Provider Tip - Ensure to have a lease on a departing residence when required for another loan! 04:03 Intro to our guest, Shawn Good! 08:25 Transitioning to an 8-unit building after a condo purchase. 13:38 House hacking and starting a law practice! 21:23 Simple partnership structures. 26:28 Generating off-market deal flow! 36:36 Shawn's 5 year plan. 46:44 Horror stories! 51:37 What is your competitive advantage? 52:18 One piece of advice for new investors. 53:27 What do you do for fun? 53:50 Good book, podcast, or self development activity that you would recommend? 55:00 Local Network Recommendation? 56:54 How can the listeners learn more about you and provide value to you? ----------------- Production House: Flint Stone Media Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2025.

What the different ways I can adjust my offer to make it more attractive? ============= Connect with Mark and Tom: StraightUpChicagoInvestor.com Email the Show: StraightUpChicagoInvestor@gmail.com Properties for Sale on the North Side? We want to buy them. Email: StraightUpChicagoInvestor@gmail.com Have a vacancy? We can place your next tenant and give you back 30-40 hours of your time. Learn more: GCRealtyInc.com/tenant-placement Has Property Mgmt become an opportunity cost for you? Let us lower your risk and give you your time back to grow. Learn more: GCRealtyinc.com ============= Link: SUCI - Resources ----------------- Production House: Flint Stone Media Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2025.

Eli Goodman of Illinois Real Estate Buyers gives the complete playbook on dealing directly with sellers to acquire off-market deals! Eli starts with explaining the grind it took to get his wholesaling off the ground! He discusses the right way to communicate with distressed sellers to create win-win scenarios and also throws in a few horror stories. Eli shares the various processes for direct to seller marketing and how he's achieved success. He closes things to keep in mind when practicing wholesaling in Illinois to mitigate your risk! If you enjoy today's episode, please leave us a review and share with someone who may also find value in this content! ============= Connect with Mark and Tom: StraightUpChicagoInvestor.com Email the Show: StraightUpChicagoInvestor@gmail.com Properties for Sale on the North Side? We want to buy them. Email: StraightUpChicagoInvestor@gmail.com Have a vacancy? We can place your next tenant and give you back 30-40 hours of your time. Learn more: GCRealtyInc.com/tenant-placement Has Property Mgmt become an opportunity cost for you? Let us lower your risk and give you your time back to grow. Learn more: GCRealtyinc.com ============= Guest: Eli Goodman, Illinois Real Estate Buyers Link: Eli's Instagram Link: Eli's Meet Up Link: Never Split the Difference (Book Recommendation) Link: Dan Clarton (Title Services Referral) Guest Questions: 01:42 Housing Provider Tip - Leverage a HELOC on your primary residence for emergencies and to continue scaling! 03:37 Intro to our guest, Eli Goodman! 07:00 Getting a wholesaling business off the ground. 11:42 How to communicate directly with sellers! 17:18 Tactical tips on direct to seller marketing. 25:08 Building a list of cash buyers. 34:33 Outlook on Eli's wholesaling business. 37:07 Challenges of wholesaling in Illinois. 44:19 What is your competitive advantage? 44:45 One piece of advice for new investors. 45:00 What do you do for fun? 45:12 Good book, podcast, or self development activity that you would recommend? 45:29 Local Network Recommendation? 46:05 How can the listeners learn more about you and provide value to you? ----------------- Production House: Flint Stone Media Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2025.

Jim Paul, Director of the ALPS Group, has over 2 decades of experience in land development and receivership. Jim jumps right in by discussing an early 21-acre land development deal and the hurdles he dealt with there! He breaks down his Tuscan Hills and Canterbury Lakes projects - residential developments in Will County, IL. Jim explains how to get creative with land development design and how to finance these projects. Throughout the episode, Jim repeats the importance of due diligence to mitigate risks and protect yourself and your investors! If you enjoy today’s episode, please leave us a review and share with someone who may also find value in this content! ============= Connect with Mark and Tom: StraightUpChicagoInvestor.com Email the Show: StraightUpChicagoInvestor@gmail.com Properties for Sale on the North Side? We want to buy them. Email: StraightUpChicagoInvestor@gmail.com Have a vacancy? We can place your next tenant and give you back 30-40 hours of your time. Learn more: GCRealtyInc.com/tenant-placement Has Property Mgmt become an opportunity cost for you? Let us lower your risk and give you your time back to grow. Learn more: GCRealtyinc.com ============= Guest: Jim Paul, ALPS Group | Call Jim: (815) 469-3800 | Email Jim: jmp@TheALPSGroup.com Link: Lee Iacocca Autobiography Link: Building Industry Association Chicago Guest Questions: 02:21 Housing Provider Tip - Considering replacing older appliances instead of spending on repairs! 03:25 Intro to our guest, Jim Paul! 05:40 Developing a 21-acre property with limited experience! 14:28 How to source land deals. 24:27 Getting creative with land development! 29:02 Financing land development. 34:03 Lessons learned from 20 years of experience. 35:45 The ins and outs of receivership. 52:22 Jim’s plan for the next 5 years! 55:31 What is your competitive advantage? 57:25 One piece of advice for new investors. 58:41 What do you do for fun? 59:00 Good book, podcast, or self development activity that you would recommend? 60:50 Local Network Recommendation? 62:07 How can the listeners learn more about you and provide value to you? ----------------- Production House: Flint Stone Media Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2025.

What are the differences between R2, R3, R4, and R5 zoning? ============= Connect with Mark and Tom: StraightUpChicagoInvestor.com Email the Show: StraightUpChicagoInvestor@gmail.com Properties for Sale on the North Side? We want to buy them. Email: StraightUpChicagoInvestor@gmail.com Have a vacancy? We can place your next tenant and give you back 30-40 hours of your time. Learn more: GCRealtyInc.com/tenant-placement Has Property Mgmt become an opportunity cost for you? Let us lower your risk and give you your time back to grow. Learn more: GCRealtyinc.com ============= Link: SUCI - Resources ----------------- Production House: Flint Stone Media Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2025.

Moises Correa, Principal of Proximo Equity Group, leads a team that specializes in value-add multifamily real estate across the Midwest. Moises provides the ins and outs of his first couple house hacks in Avondale and how he burned the boats and left his W2 job after the first one! He explains how he formed partnerships to purchase a large multifamily building in Louisville, KY and gets granular on the due diligence process. Moises shares great insights on capital raising and structuring partnerships to be able to take down these large acquisitions. He breaks down how he leveraged a broker relationship to acquire a deal in Fort Wayne, IN well below market value. This episode showcases how building a team and fostering relationships can truly pay dividends in REI! If you enjoy today’s episode, please leave us a review and share with someone who may also find value in this content! ============= Connect with Mark and Tom: StraightUpChicagoInvestor.com Email the Show: StraightUpChicagoInvestor@gmail.com Properties for Sale on the North Side? We want to buy them. Email: StraightUpChicagoInvestor@gmail.com Have a vacancy? We can place your next tenant and give you back 30-40 hours of your time. Learn more: GCRealtyInc.com/tenant-placement Has Property Mgmt become an opportunity cost for you? Let us lower your risk and give you your time back to grow. Learn more: GCRealtyinc.com ============= Guest: Moises Correa, Principal of Proximo Equity Group Link: SUCI Ep 369 - Erik Swanson Link: What It Takes (Book Recommendation) Guest Questions: 02:50 Housing Provider Tip - Understand your leases entirely to avoid legal issues. 04:44 Intro to our guest, Moises Correa! 09:05 Early lessons learned in REI! 14:43 Moises’ second acquisition. 22:03 Jumping into a larger deal in Louisville! 34:02 Capital raising and structuring partnerships! 45:45 Horror stories from Louisville deals. 49:46 Investing in Fort Wayne, IN! 57:48 What is your competitive advantage? 58:18 One piece of advice for new investors. 59:21 What do you do for fun? 59:54 Good book, podcast, or self development activity that you would recommend? 60:09 Local Network Recommendation? 60:28 How can the listeners learn more about you and provide value to you? ----------------- Production House: Flint Stone Media Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2025.

Properties for Sale on the North Side? We want to buy them. Email: StraightUpChicagoInvestor@gmail.com Have a vacancy? We can place your next tenant and give you back 30-40 hours of your time. Learn more: GCRealtyInc.com/tenant-placement Has Property Mgmt become an opportunity cost for you? Let us lower your risk and give you your time back to grow. Learn more: GCRealtyinc.com ============= Joe Smazal, Senior Managing Partner of Interra Realty, has over a decade of experience selling mid-market apartment buildings and recently surpassed $1 Billion in transaction volume! Joe kicks things off by sharing the genesis and overview of his “Real Estate Chicago Style Podcast”! He reflects on his career’s progression and highlights that have led him to crossing the $1 billion mark in total transaction volume. Joe dives deep on the market trends for Chicago’s North Side including prime neighborhoods like Lincoln Park and Lakeview. Joe closes with takeaways from some recent personal transactions and provides an optimistic outlook on the Chicago Real Estate market! If you enjoy today’s episode, please leave us a review and share with someone who may also find value in this content! ============= Connect with Mark and Tom: StraightUpChicagoInvestor.com Email the Show: StraightUpChicagoInvestor@gmail.com Guest: Joe Smazal, Interra Realty Link: Joe Smazal - Interra Realty LLC | LinkedIn Link: Real Estate Chicago Style Podcast Link: SUCI Ep 156 - Joe Smazal Link: SUCI Ep 368 - Joe Smazal (NSBC Live Event) Link: Mark Wilczak (Inspector Referral) Link: Scott Weinstein (Field and Goldberg) Guest Questions 02:38 Housing Provider Tip - Understand rules and regulations around security deposits! 05:00 Intro to our guest, Joe Smazal! 07:10 Joe’s Real Estate Chicago Style Podcast! 15:25 Joe’s path to $1 Billion of Commercial RE sales. 23:11 Chicago market trends in 2025. 31:27 Navigating the Predominance of the Block (606) Ordinance. 49:50 Joe’s 5-year plan. 54:57 The outlook on Chicago! 58:29 What is your competitive advantage? 58:53 One piece of advice for new investors. 59:19 What do you do for fun? 59:51 Good book, podcast, or self development activity that you would recommend? 60:55 Local Network Recommendation? 62:09 How can the listeners learn more about you and provide value to you? ----------------- Production House: Flint Stone Media Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2025.

Properties for Sale on the North Side? We want to buy them. Email: StraightUpChicagoInvestor@gmail.com Have a vacancy? We can place your next tenant and give you back 30-40 hours of your time. Learn more: GCRealtyInc.com/tenant-placement Has Property Mgmt become an opportunity cost for you? Let us lower your risk and give you your time back to grow. Learn more: GCRealtyinc.com ============= What are my lending options for a non-owner occupied investor? ============= Connect with Mark and Tom: StraightUpChicagoInvestor.com Email the Show: StraightUpChicagoInvestor@gmail.com Guest: Chris Puleo of Puleo Group Link: Episode 130: Chicago Mortgage Lending in this Inflationary Environment with Chris Puleo ----------------- Production House: Flint Stone Media Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2025.

Properties for Sale on the North Side? We want to buy them. Email: StraightUpChicagoInvestor@gmail.com Have a vacancy? We can place your next tenant and give you back 30-40 hours of your time. Learn more: GCRealtyInc.com/tenant-placement Has Property Mgmt become an opportunity cost for you? Let us lower your risk and give you your time back to grow. Learn more: GCRealtyinc.com ============= Lantz Kurzawinski, Marketing Specialist for the Straight Up Chicago Investor Podcast, tells his story of grinding to succeed in real estate at an early age. Lantz explains how he recognized his entrepreneurial spirit at an early age and decided to dive into real estate. He shares his experience as a leasing agent and how that led him to discover his enjoyment for getting his hands dirty. Lantz gets granular on partnering on a few BRRRR deals and the value he brought to the partnership despite not having much liquidity! He shares insights on closing a house hack deal with a hilarious story about living in a “work in progress” basement apartment! Lantz demonstrates how hard work and bringing value to others is very much the key to succeeding in REI like other areas of life! If you enjoy today’s episode, please leave us a review and share with someone who may also find value in this content! ============= Connect with Mark and Tom: StraightUpChicagoInvestor.com Email the Show: StraightUpChicagoInvestor@gmail.com Guest: Lantz Kurzawinksi, GC Realty & Development Link: SUCI Ep 253 - Jeff Nydegger Link: The Obstacle Is the Way (Book Recommendation) Link: Meditations (Book Recommendation) Link: Michael Procaccio (Network Referral) Guest Questions 02:49 Housing Provider Tip - Consider giving renters storage unit options to maximize your units’ appeal. 04:39 Intro to our guest, Lantz Kurzawinski! 12:56 Starting off as a leasing agent. 18:38 Lantz’s first deal! 23:06 Cranking through another BRRRR project and structuring partnerships. 28:00 House hacking in Jefferson Park! 40:30 Taking down deals in Itasca and Downers Grove. 46:51 What is your competitive advantage? 47:20 One piece of advice for new investors. 48:22 What do you do for fun? 48:28 Good book, podcast, or self development activity that you would recommend? 49:10 Local Network Recommendation? 49:41 How can the listeners learn more about you and provide value to you? ----------------- Production House: Flint Stone Media Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2025.

Properties for Sale on the North Side? We want to buy them. Email: StraightUpChicagoInvestor@gmail.com Have a vacancy? We can place your next tenant and give you back 30-40 hours of your time. Learn more: GCRealtyInc.com/tenant-placement Has Property Mgmt become an opportunity cost for you? Let us lower your risk and give you your time back to grow. Learn more: GCRealtyinc.com ============= Jason shares why he chose to invest in Chicago’s northwest side and how he’s achieved success in that area. He breaks down assumable loans and 2-1 buydowns including how these tools can be leveraged to improve an asset’s ROI! Jason discusses the power of the data he compiles in the Wagner Report and how investors can utilize it for a competitive edge. He closes with bullish remarks on Arlington Heights and powerful advice for new, aspiring investors! If you enjoy today’s episode, please leave us a review and share with someone who may also find value in this content! ============= Connect with Mark and Tom: StraightUpChicagoInvestor.com Email the Show: StraightUpChicagoInvestor@gmail.com Guest: Jason Wagner, Greystone Realty Link: SUCI Ep 224 - Jason Wagner Link: Real Life Investing with Jason & Rachel Wagner (Podcast) Link: Wagner Report Link: The 5 Types of Wealth (Book Recommendation) Link: SUCI Ep 244 - Ryan Bakke Guest Questions 02:36 Housing Provider Tip - Ensure utilities are put back in your name in between tenant turnovers! 04:52 Intro to our guest, Jason Wagner! 10:53 Emerging neighborhoods and creative strategies for cash flow! 28:42 Ins and outs of assumable loans. 36:06 Insights on VA loan assumptions. 38:03 The background on Greystone Realty. 42:56 Housing market takeaways from the Wagner Report! 45:58 Opportunities in Arlington Heights. 50:26 Best of advice for aspiring real estate investors. 52:42 What is your competitive advantage? 53:07 One piece of advice for new investors. 53:20 What do you do for fun? 54:28 Good book, podcast, or self development activity that you would recommend? 56:19 Local Network Recommendation? 57:11 How can the listeners learn more about you and provide value to you? ----------------- Production House: Flint Stone Media Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2025.

Properties for Sale on the North Side? We want to buy them. Email: StraightUpChicagoInvestor@gmail.com Have a vacancy? We can place your next tenant and give you back 30-40 hours of your time. Learn more: GCRealtyInc.com/tenant-placement Has Property Mgmt become an opportunity cost for you? Let us lower your risk and give you your time back to grow. Learn more: GCRealtyinc.com ============= Chris Puleo lays out tangible reasons why he feels interest rates will be coming down in the upcoming future. ============= Connect with Mark and Tom: StraightUpChicagoInvestor.com Email the Show: StraightUpChicagoInvestor@gmail.com Guest: Chris Puleo of Puleo Group Link: Episode 130: Chicago Mortgage Lending in this Inflationary Environment with Chris Puleo ----------------- Production House: Flint Stone Media Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2025.

Properties for Sale on the North Side? We want to buy them. Email: StraightUpChicagoInvestor@gmail.com Have a vacancy? We can place your next tenant and give you back 30-40 hours of your time. Learn more: GCRealtyInc.com/tenant-placement Has Property Mgmt become an opportunity cost for you? Let us lower your risk and give you your time back to grow. Learn more: GCRealtyinc.com ============= Kevin Rocio, founder of ROC Advisory Group, is an award winning commercial real estate broker, mentor, and investor. Kevin shares how he built a business and sphere of influence in the mortgage lending industry. He discusses his start in commercial real estate and gets granular on various valuation metrics. Kevin talks about the rapid growth of his business during and after the pandemic. He closes with explaining the importance of building a great reputation to set yourself up for success in this relationship-based business! If you enjoy today’s episode, please leave us a review and share with someone who may also find value in this content! ============= Connect with Mark and Tom: StraightUpChicagoInvestor.com Email the Show: StraightUpChicagoInvestor@gmail.com Guest: Kevin Rocio, ROC Advisory Group Link: Kevin Rocio's Instagram Link: Crain's Chicago Business Link: SUCI Ep 296 - Moses Hall Link: Mike Levin (Network Referral) Guest Questions 04:09 Housing Provider Tip - Let insurance representatives know about property improvements to reduce your premium! 05:50 Intro to our guest, Kevin Rocio! 14:45 Transitioning out of mortgage lending after 17 years. 20:46 Starting in real estate brokerage in 2009. 33:16 Utilizing GRM for valuations. 34:51 Kevin’s business through and post COVID. 48:31 How to find a mentor! 52:32 Importance of marketing and building a reputation. 55:05 What is your competitive advantage? 55:32 One piece of advice for new investors. 56:08 What do you do for fun? 56:50 Good book, podcast, or self development activity that you would recommend? 58:18 Local Network Recommendation? 59:09 How can the listeners learn more about you and provide value to you? ----------------- Production House: Flint Stone Media Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2025.

Properties for Sale on the North Side? We want to buy them. Email: StraightUpChicagoInvestor@gmail.com Have a vacancy? We can place your next tenant and give you back 30-40 hours of your time. Learn more: GCRealtyInc.com/tenant-placement Has Property Mgmt become an opportunity cost for you? Let us lower your risk and give you your time back to grow. Learn more: GCRealtyinc.com ============= Micah White is a real estate coach with a proven track record of finding cash flowing real estate with great ROI! Micah starts by explaining the ins and outs of his first couple house hacks in Logan Square and North Lawndale. He provides great pointers on proper due diligence to mitigate risk on an investment. Micah shares a hilarious DIY story; moral of the story, hire a professional! He closes with valuable insights on structuring partnerships and building a track record to attract investors! If you enjoy today’s episode, please leave us a review and share with someone who may also find value in this content! ============= Connect with Mark and Tom: StraightUpChicagoInvestor.com Email the Show: StraightUpChicagoInvestor@gmail.com Guest: Micah White, Brick by Brick Blueprint Link: Real Estate with Micah Link: Micah's Instagram Link: A Long Way Gone (Book Recommendation) Link: Shoe Dog (Book Recommendation) Link: Block Club Chicago Guest Questions 02:22 Housing Provider Tip - Remove window AC units to improve heat efficiency this winter! 03:45 Intro to our guest, Micah White! 14:31 Micah’s start in REI! 22:12 Due diligence on your first deal. 26:58 Bumping rents and stabilizing a building. 31:28 The DIY wax ring story! 37:27 Micah’s North Lawndale deal. 44:38 Structuring partnerships with investors. 53:20 Reputation building to attract investors. 57:22 What is your competitive advantage? 58:01 One piece of advice for new investors. 58:35 What do you do for fun? 59:45 Good book, podcast, or self development activity that you would recommend? 61:56 Local Network Recommendation? 62:17 How can the listeners learn more about you and provide value to you? ----------------- Production House: Flint Stone Media Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2025.

Properties for Sale on the North Side? We want to buy them. Email: StraightUpChicagoInvestor@gmail.com Have a vacancy? We can place your next tenant and give you back 30-40 hours of your time. Learn more: GCRealtyInc.com/tenant-placement Has Property Mgmt become an opportunity cost for you? Let us lower your risk and give you your time back to grow. Learn more: GCRealtyinc.com ============= Paul de Luca of The Axon Group joins us to provide great insights on leveraging house hacking to grow a portfolio and how to succeed as an investor-friendly real estate agent! Paul jumps right into the nitty gritty of his first couple house hack deals! He gives tips on getting off the ground as a new real estate agent and the 101 on Chicago non-conforming units. Paul shares how he handled various troublesome tenants and provides his take on emerging neighborhoods where he’s investing! Throughout the episode, Paul demonstrates how focus and taking action have been keys to his investing success! If you enjoy today’s episode, please leave us a review and share with someone who may also find value in this content! ============= Connect with Mark and Tom: StraightUpChicagoInvestor.com Email the Show: StraightUpChicagoInvestor@gmail.com Guest: Paul de Luca, eXp Realty - The Axon Group Link: Paul's Instagram Link: Paul's BiggerPockets Link: SUCI Ep 354 - Jake Fugman & Mike Scanlon Link: 5 Types of Wealth (Book Recommendation) Link: On The Market (Podcast Recommendation) Link: Adam Gurney (Attorney Referral) Guest Questions 03:25 Housing Provider Tip - Consider the ROI on central HVAC! 05:08 Intro to our guest, Paul de Luca! 10:52 Reflecting on Paul’s first house hack. 13:45 Getting into house hack #2! 21:20 Getting started as a new real estate agent. 25:32 Valuing non-conforming units. 31:33 Handling problem tenants. 36:18 Neighborhood guide for investors! 42:35 Paul’s 5 year outlook! 48:48 What is your competitive advantage? 49:23 One piece of advice for new investors. 49:50 What do you do for fun? 50:00 Good book, podcast, or self development activity that you would recommend? 50:31 Local Network Recommendation? 50:55 How can the listeners learn more about you and provide value to you? ----------------- Production House: Flint Stone Media Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2025.

Properties for Sale on the North Side? We want to buy them. Email: StraightUpChicagoInvestor@gmail.com Have a vacancy? We can place your next tenant and give you back 30-40 hours of your time. Learn more: GCRealtyInc.com/tenant-placement Has Property Mgmt become an opportunity cost for you? Let us lower your risk and give you your time back to grow. Learn more: GCRealtyinc.com ============= What are the "do's" and "don'ts" when filing an insurance claim? ============= Connect with Mark and Tom: StraightUpChicagoInvestor.com Email the Show: StraightUpChicagoInvestor@gmail.com Guest: Josh Steigelmann, State Farm Insurance Link: Investor Stories Featuring Sean Morrissey ----------------- Production House: Flint Stone Media Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2025.

Properties for Sale on the North Side? We want to buy them. Email: StraightUpChicagoInvestor@gmail.com Have a vacancy? We can place your next tenant and give you back 30-40 hours of your time. Learn more: GCRealtyInc.com/tenant-placement Has Property Mgmt become an opportunity cost for you? Let us lower your risk and give you your time back to grow. Learn more: GCRealtyinc.com ============= Fernando Angelucci returns to the podcast to explain how he has rapidly grown his self storage business and the drivers behind increasing self storage demand! Fernando explains his marketing strategy to optimize deal flow despite the low inventory environment. He delves deep into the underwriting and feasibility studies performed on self storage investments to maximize returns. Fernando provides the 101 on various financing options and repositioning strategies for self storage investments. He closes with a motivating 5-year outlook including a detailed plan to reach financial independence! If you enjoy today’s episode, please leave us a review and share with someone who may also find value in this content! ============= Connect with Mark and Tom: StraightUpChicagoInvestor.com Email the Show: StraightUpChicagoInvestor@gmail.com Guests: Fernando Angelucci, Self Storage Syndicated Equities Link: Fernando's Instagram Link: SUCI Ep 86 - Fernando Angelucci Link: Vagabonding (Book Recommendation) Link: SUCI Ep 392 - Cost Seg Kev Guest Questions 01:49 Housing Provider Tip - Be sure to perform maintenance on AC units after a long summer! 03:25 Intro to our guest, Fernando Angelucci! 06:41 Growing a portfolio in a low inventory market! 12:10 Feasibility studies on self storage projects. 16:44 Building a self storage investment team! 21:56 Financing self storage deals. 37:33 Repositioning a self storage investment. 47:57 Obtaining special use permits. 52:01 Ideal self storage projects! 55:23 Fernando’s 5-year outlook. 60:26 What is your competitive advantage? 62:55 One piece of advice for new investors. 63:32 What do you do for fun? 64:14 Good book, podcast, or self development activity that you would recommend? 64:48 Local Network Recommendation? 65:53 How can the listeners learn more about you and provide value to you? ----------------- Production House: Flint Stone Media Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2025.

Properties for Sale on the North Side? We want to buy them. Email: StraightUpChicagoInvestor@gmail.com Have a vacancy? We can place your next tenant and give you back 30-40 hours of your time. Learn more: GCRealtyInc.com/tenant-placement Has Property Mgmt become an opportunity cost for you? Let us lower your risk and give you your time back to grow. Learn more: GCRealtyinc.com ============= Max Motew, Director of Leasing at Mo2 Properties, joins us to share great insights on acquiring, renovating, and stabilizing small multifamily properties in Chicago’s north side! Max jumps right in by sharing top considerations when renovating Chicago landmarked properties! He talks about the importance of knowing your market to accurately project rents and pro-formas. Max gets granular on leasing including tips for screening out fraudulent applicants and best marketing practices. Throughout the episode, Max emphasizes the importance of having great relationships with tenants and being an expert in your geographical area of focus as keys to success! If you enjoy today’s episode, please leave us a review and share with someone who may also find value in this content! ============= Connect with Mark and Tom: StraightUpChicagoInvestor.com Email the Show: StraightUpChicagoInvestor@gmail.com Guests: Max Motew, Mo2 Properties Link: Max's LinkedIn Link: SUCI Ep 372 - Kevin Schnell Link: Neighborhood Building Owner's Alliance - Chicago Guest Questions 02:05 Housing Provider Tip - Take action and jump into real estate! 03:23 Intro to our guest, Max Motew! 07:10 Considerations on landmarked buildings. 14:04 Making deals “pencil” in today’s market. 23:36 Projecting rents and pro-formas! 32:55 Optimizing lease renewals. 43:15 Common leasing mistakes to avoid! 50:08 Screening best practices. 55:57 Up and coming Chicago neighborhoods! 61:18 What is your competitive advantage? 62:25 One piece of advice for new investors. 62:48 What do you do for fun? 63:30 Good book, podcast, or self development activity that you would recommend? 64:09 Local Network Recommendation? 64:37 How can the listeners learn more about you and provide value to you? ----------------- Production House: Flint Stone Media Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2025.

Properties for Sale on the North Side? We want to buy them. Email: StraightUpChicagoInvestor@gmail.com Have a vacancy? We can place your next tenant and give you back 30-40 hours of your time. Learn more: GCRealtyInc.com/tenant-placement Has Property Mgmt become an opportunity cost for you? Let us lower your risk and give you your time back to grow. Learn more: GCRealtyinc.com ============= What do investors need to consider from a legal perspective when setting up new partnerships? ============= Connect with Mark and Tom: StraightUpChicagoInvestor.com Email the Show: StraightUpChicagoInvestor@gmail.com Guest: Bibek Das, Das Law ----------------- Production House: Flint Stone Media Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2025.

Properties for Sale on the North Side? We want to buy them. Email: StraightUpChicagoInvestor@gmail.com Have a vacancy? We can place your next tenant and give you back 30-40 hours of your time. Learn more: GCRealtyInc.com/tenant-placement Has Property Mgmt become an opportunity cost for you? Let us lower your risk and give you your time back to grow. Learn more: GCRealtyinc.com ============= DuBois Toy is a seasoned real estate investor, veteran, and cybersecurity analyst who has a passion for helping veterans maximize their real estate benefits! DuBois kicks things off by discussing his start in real estate which involved a house hack and dealing with an eviction! He breaks down the rent-by-the-room strategy as a tool to maximize ROI. DuBois dives deep on VA loans, tax exemptions, and various other powerful real estate tools available to veterans! From leveraging AI for deal searching to veteran resources, this show is full of invaluable insights that you won’t want to miss! If you enjoy today’s episode, please leave us a review and share with someone who may also find value in this content! ============= Connect with Mark and Tom: StraightUpChicagoInvestor.com Email the Show: StraightUpChicagoInvestor@gmail.com Guests: DuBois Toy, Trading Technologies Link: DuBois' Facebook Link: Cook County Veterans with Disabilities Exemption Link: Cook County Returning Veterans Exemption Link: Andrew Dorazio's Veterans Real Estate Meetup Link: Academy of Ideas (YouTube Channel) Link: Meditations (Book Recommendation) Guest Questions 02:17 Housing Provider Tip - Understand rental license and inspection requirements in the suburbs! 04:00 Intro to our guest, DuBois Toy! 08:31 The future of tech in real estate! 15:49 DuBois’ background and start in real estate. 24:27 House hacking and dealing with an eviction in Oak Park! 29:27 Leveraging rent by the room strategy. 35:58 Educating veterans on VA loan benefits! 41:26 Revealing DuBois’ growth strategy! 49:09 DuBois’ bullish outlook on Chicago! 54:23 What is your competitive advantage? 55:03 One piece of advice for new investors. 55:41 What do you do for fun? 56:14 Good book, podcast, or self development activity that you would recommend? 57:20 Local Network Recommendation? 58:38 How can the listeners learn more about you and provide value to you? ----------------- Production House: Flint Stone Media Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2025.