The Note Investor Podcast

Mark Monroe—30-year investor and author of Creative Real Estate Investing—joins Dan to unpack the real mechanics of seller financing: when to use wraps vs. lease options, why performance deeds can backfire, and how to keep Subject-To ethical (and legal). Mark shares how he sources true win-win deals (including hospice-driven leads), structures low- or zero-down offers, and automates collections with servicers and VAs. They also dig into predatory tactics used by some investors, Dodd-Frank/S.A.F.E./RESPA realities for owner-occupants, and why compliance and underwriting protect both the borrower and your business. Connect with Mark: https://mark-monroe.com/ Join Mark's 180K+ member Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/395240491763831 Want to create your own seller-financed notes? MAKE SURE YOUR NOTES ARE SELLABLE, VALUABLE, AND COMPLIANT: https://calltheunderwriter.com/ Are you Ready to work with Dan to learn how to invest in notes yourself? COMPREHENSIVE NOTE BUYING COURSE: https://www.notelaunchpad.com

Seller finance compliance feels messy because multiple rule sets overlap and the gray areas are real. In this episode, I break down the essentials—Dodd-Frank Ability-to-Repay (ATR), TRID timelines, and the “Rules of 1, 3, and 5”—and show you how to keep deals simple, compliant, and sellable. Key takeaways Dodd-Frank ATR (the big one): If your borrower is an owner-occupant, you must make a good-faith determination they can repay (credit, income, debts, residual income). You want to underwrite anyway—this protects you and improves loan performance. TRID basics: Send a Loan Estimate (LE) ≥ 7 business days before closing and a Closing Disclosure (CD) ≥ 3 business days before closing. Disclosure reduces misunderstandings and defaults. Rules of 1 / 3 / 5 (why the myths persist): “1 per year”: Only applies to natural persons selling their own primary residence (not investment deals or entities). Not the “do anything you want” rule most think it is. “3 per year”: You can create up to 3 loans/year without involving an RMLO, but ATR still applies. Not Wild West. “5 per year”: You can do up to 5 loans/year without TRID, but if you’re already doing ATR with an RMLO, you’ll typically do TRID too—there’s no reason not to. Why follow ATR + TRID even when not strictly required: Better underwriting → fewer defaults Easier to sell (and at higher prices) to institutional buyers Enforceability if a borrower contests in court Costs are typically passed to the borrower at closing Servicing tip: For owner-occupied loans, use a third-party servicer. Compliance on servicing is even stricter, and you can contractually pass the monthly fee to the borrower. Resources mentioned 📄 One-Page Seller Finance Rule Guide (free) — quick reference you can keep on your desk 🤖 Note Copilot AI — my private GPT trained on 160+ sources (Note Launchpad transcripts, case studies, internal docs) to help you analyze, price, and operate notes in real time Events & shout-outs I’ll be at Note Expo in Dallas, Nov 7–8 — great for networking (700+ people). Get your ticket HERE. Paper Trail Conference recap — smaller, intimate, lots of note creators Chapters (adjust timestamps after upload) 00:00 Intro & why seller finance feels confusing 01:10 Event updates (Note Expo, Paper Trail) 03:20 What is Note Copilot AI? 05:50 Seller finance compliance overview 06:30 Dodd-Frank ATR (what it really requires) 08:40 TRID timelines (LE/CD and why they help) 10:15 The 1 / 3 / 5 rules explained (and myths) 14:30 Why follow ATR+TRID even when not mandated 17:20 Servicing: why to outsource & pass fees 19:30 Wrap-up & how to get help Work with me / Get help Underwriting & compliance for seller-finance deals: Call The Underwriter Questions? dan@calltheunderwriter.com

This episode features Eddie Speed, a nationally recognized authority in note investing, seller financing, and creative real estate strategies. Eddie shares insights into his company’s focus on acquiring well-structured residential property loans and improving the note creation process through education and investor training. He discusses the origins and mission of NoteSchool, an industry-leading training platform that helps investors master the art of buying, selling, and managing notes. Eddie also previews an upcoming trade show highlighting how blockchain technology is transforming loan sales and enhancing transparency in real estate transactions. The conversation wraps up with details about Note Expo, one of the largest networking events in the note and seller-finance space, emphasizing its role in connecting investors, lenders, and innovators shaping the future of real estate finance. Note Expo is Nov 7-8 in Dallas, get your ticket here: https://noteschool.isrefer.com/go/ne/Fusion/ Want to create your own seller-financed notes? MAKE SURE YOUR NOTES ARE SELLABLE, VALUABLE, AND COMPLIANT: https://calltheunderwriter.com/ Are you Ready to work with Dan to learn how to invest in notes yourself? COMPREHENSIVE NOTE BUYING COURSE: https://www.notelaunchpad.com

Shante Duffy recently joined the Call The Underwriter team! In this podcast episode, Dan sits down with Shante Duffy to talk about her journey in real estate investing and loan servicing. From starting as an administrative assistant to managing assets, Shante shares how her career has evolved and what inspired her to join Dan’s team to learn the underwriting process. Together, they dive into the key differences between loan origination and servicing—touching on compliance, borrower interactions, and the challenges of managing loans throughout their lifecycle. Shante also reflects on her experiences in the note investing space and looks ahead to exciting plans for team growth, including expansion into non-QM lending and licensing in new states. Want to create your own seller-financed notes? MAKE SURE YOUR NOTES ARE SELLABLE, VALUABLE, AND COMPLIANT: https://calltheunderwriter.com/ Are you Ready to work with Dan to learn how to invest in notes yourself? COMPREHENSIVE NOTE BUYING COURSE: https://www.notelaunchpad.com

In this podcast, Dan was joined by Chris Larson of Next Level Income. They discussed the current real estate market conditions and Chris shared his extensive experience in real estate investments, including his portfolio of properties and insights on market cycles. They explored opportunities in creative finance and hard money lending, while Chris provided analysis of current market trends and economic indicators. The conversation concluded with discussions about various real estate sectors, including senior housing, car washes, and commercial properties, with Chris offering strategic advice for navigating the current economic climate. Connect with Chris: Email: chris@nextlevelincome.com LinkedIn: in/nextlevelincome Website: www.nextlevelincome.com Want to create your own seller-financed notes? MAKE SURE YOUR NOTES ARE SELLABLE, VALUABLE, AND COMPLIANT: https://calltheunderwriter.com/ Are you Ready to work with Dan to learn how to invest in notes yourself? COMPREHENSIVE NOTE BUYING COURSE: https://www.notelaunchpad.com

The meeting featured an interview with Dave Seymour, star of A&E's Flipping Boston. He shared his journey from working-class immigrant to successful real estate investor, highlighting his financial struggles and eventual path to real estate education and investment. Dave discussed his experiences in multifamily real estate, including his work on a reality TV show and the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic's impact on the market. The conversation concluded with discussions about teaching and documenting investment strategies, and the importance of serving people in real estate. Connect with Dave: Website: www.freedomventure.com LinkedIn: daveseymour343 YouTube: @legacyallianceclub X (Twitter): @daveseymour343 Instagram: @daveseymour343 Facebook: @daveseymourlive Email: info@freedomventure.com Want to create your own seller-financed notes? MAKE SURE YOUR NOTES ARE SELLABLE, VALUABLE, AND COMPLIANT: https://calltheunderwriter.com/ Are you Ready to work with Dan to learn how to invest in notes yourself? COMPREHENSIVE NOTE BUYING COURSE: https://www.notelaunchpad.com

Trystan has flipped over 20 properties, managed up to 9 rental doors, and used various financing methods including seller financing in the past four years after transitioning from a 20-year career in technology. He appreciates seller financing as a creative option where sellers can become the bank, though he notes it's not suitable for all sellers and emphasizes the importance of conducting deals ethically, using the test of whether he'd want the same treatment for his family members. Connect with Trystan: https://midlifetomillions.com/ Want to create your own seller-financed notes? MAKE SURE YOUR NOTES ARE SELLABLE, VALUABLE, AND COMPLIANT: https://calltheunderwriter.com/ Are you Ready to work with Dan to learn how to invest in notes yourself? COMPREHENSIVE NOTE BUYING COURSE: https://www.notelaunchpad.com

In this podcast, Dan interviews Dave Dubeau, a Canadian real estate investor who shares his journey from starting over with no credit to becoming a successful capital raiser and podcast host. Dave discusses his approach to real estate investing and his current focus on helping syndicators and fund managers raise capital from accredited investors through his Property Profits Real Estate Podcast. The conversation explores various strategies for leveraging podcasts for personal branding, content creation, and networking, including the use of AI for content repurposing and the importance of maintaining business knowledge while utilizing automation tools. Learn more from and connect with Dave Dubeau: Connect with Dave on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davedubeau/ Free ebook on getting 20 accredited investor meetings per month: https://20accreditedinvestorsbook.com/ Want to create your own seller-financed notes? MAKE SURE YOUR NOTES ARE SELLABLE, VALUABLE, AND COMPLIANT: https://calltheunderwriter.com/ Are you Ready to work with Dan to learn how to invest in notes yourself? COMPREHENSIVE NOTE BUYING COURSE: https://www.notelaunchpad.com

David Kahl, a South Carolina real estate investor, shares his journey from traditional flips and rentals to building a portfolio of owner-financed notes starting in 2017. In this episode, David breaks down his strategies for acquiring and financing properties using seller financing and private money. He also discusses how he manages notes, including the risks and rewards of subject-to deals, wrap loans, and effective marketing tactics for sourcing deals. The conversation wraps up with insights on the current landscape of real estate investing—highlighting the importance of local investor associations for connecting with private lenders and note buyers. Want to create your own seller-financed notes? MAKE SURE YOUR NOTES ARE SELLABLE, VALUABLE, AND COMPLIANT: https://calltheunderwriter.com/ Are you Ready to work with Dan to learn how to invest in notes yourself? COMPREHENSIVE NOTE BUYING COURSE: https://www.notelaunchpad.com

In this episode Hans shared his journey from academia to real estate investing, focusing on his experiences with wholesaling properties and transitioning to creating notes and investing in properties subject to existing loans. The discussion covered various aspects of real estate investing, including the importance of building trust with sellers, understanding motivated seller characteristics, and navigating sub-2 deals and their complexities. Hans and Dan explored different investment models, including contract for deeds and mortgages, while discussing challenges like insurance issues and the process of converting land contracts to mortgages. Learn more from Hans: Sub2Investor YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/@sub2investor Sub2Investor Website - https://www.sub2investor.com/ Email - hans@sub2investor.com Want to create your own seller-financed notes? MAKE SURE YOUR NOTES ARE SELLABLE, VALUABLE, AND COMPLIANT: https://calltheunderwriter.com/ Are you Ready to work with Dan to learn how to invest in notes yourself? COMPREHENSIVE NOTE BUYING COURSE: https://www.notelaunchpad.com

Dan interviews Dee Simpson, a transaction coordinator, to discuss her background and the role of transaction coordinators in real estate, including their responsibilities in managing and facilitating transactions after contract execution. They explore common mistakes investors make when reviewing documents and working with vendors, emphasizing the importance of thorough contract reading and legal consultation. The conversation delves into the complexities of land contracts versus mortgages, including legal challenges and regulatory restrictions, while also covering subject-to deals and the role of servicing companies in managing payments and providing paper trails. To engage with Dee on your next creative deal, go to: https://coordinatedconnect.com/ or send her an email at: dee@coordinatedconnect.com. Want to create your own seller-financed notes? MAKE SURE YOUR NOTES ARE SELLABLE, VALUABLE, AND COMPLIANT: https://calltheunderwriter.com/ Are you Ready to work with Dan to learn how to invest in notes yourself? COMPREHENSIVE NOTE BUYING COURSE: https://www.notelaunchpad.com

In this episode, we sit down with Dave Friedman, a seasoned real estate investor, as he shares his journey from building a rental portfolio to transitioning into property flipping and creative strategies like seller financing. Tune in to hear the lessons he’s learned, the challenges he’s overcome, and how he’s adapted his approach to maximize returns in today’s market. Want to create your own seller-financed notes? MAKE SURE YOUR NOTES ARE SELLABLE, VALUABLE, AND COMPLIANT: https://calltheunderwriter.com/ Are you Ready to work with Dan to learn how to invest in notes yourself? COMPREHENSIVE NOTE BUYING COURSE: https://www.notelaunchpad.com

This podcast is a replay of a webinar from 5/23/25 where I discussed 10 aspects of underwriting new seller finance loans that you may not have considered. Want to create your own seller-financed notes? MAKE SURE YOUR NOTES ARE SELLABLE, VALUABLE, AND COMPLIANT: https://calltheunderwriter.com/ Are you Ready to work with Dan to learn how to invest in notes yourself? COMPREHENSIVE NOTE BUYING COURSE: https://www.notelaunchpad.com

In this episode, I kick off a new series exploring how AI is transforming real estate note investing and creative finance strategies. I break down foundational AI concepts and their evolution, and share insights from my experience implementing AI at major tech companies. Tune in to hear where AI shines—and where it still falls short—when it comes to streamlining administrative work and supporting complex decision-making in real estate investing. Want to create your own seller-financed notes? MAKE SURE YOUR NOTES ARE SELLABLE, VALUABLE, AND COMPLIANT: https://calltheunderwriter.com/ Are you Ready to work with Dan to learn how to invest in notes yourself? SMALL GROUP LIVE COACHING: https://www.fusionnotes.com/livetraining

In this podcast I discuss some of the differences I have noticed between note buyers and note creators, and also provide some updates and lessons learned from the recent DME conference in Nashville.

This podcast is from a webinar that covered 7 costly mistakes that both new and experienced note investors commonly make. For a few days only, you can take advantage of the Spring Sale for the Note Launchpad online training course and SAVE $1000 off the normal price: https://notelaunchpad.com/

In this episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Joe Holmes, a seasoned real estate investor with over 45 years of experience. Joe shared his journey, from purchasing his first investment property to his current strategy of using "subject to" financing for house flipping. We dove into the details of subject-to loans, the process of creating notes as part of real estate deals, and the challenges that come with selling those notes on the secondary market. Joe also offered his insights on the current state of the real estate market, predicting an economic turnaround and a continued lack of supply that could drive prices higher. It was a fascinating conversation packed with valuable insights for anyone navigating the real estate and note investing world. Connect with Joe: https://joehoms.com/ Want to create your own seller-financed notes? MAKE SURE YOUR NOTES ARE SELLABLE, VALUABLE, AND COMPLIANT: https://calltheunderwriter.com/ Are you Ready to work with Dan to learn how to invest in notes yourself? SMALL GROUP LIVE COACHING: https://www.fusionnotes.com/livetraining

Dave Franecki joined me on the podcast to discuss his extensive background in notes and real estate. He shared his journey from being a commercial landscape contractor to becoming a real estate agent and builder. We also discussed the economic cycles and their impact on the real estate market, the importance of cleaning one's portfolio during a downturn, and the potential of the west valley of Phoenix. The conversation also covered the concept of 4-year balloon notes, the changing landscape of the market, the benefits of investing in personal property trusts and IRAs, and the potential of consulting work and sharing knowledge with new investors. Learn more about Dave and connect with him here: https://seller-carry.com/ https://capstonecapitalusa.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@davefranecki387 Want to create your own seller-financed notes? MAKE SURE YOUR NOTES ARE SELLABLE, VALUABLE, AND COMPLIANT: https://calltheunderwriter.com/ Are you Ready to work with Dan to learn how to invest in notes yourself? SMALL GROUP LIVE COACHING: https://www.fusionnotes.com/livetraining

Want to quit your job and dive into real estate full-time? The hard truth is that it takes time, savings, and a strategic plan. In this episode, Ryan shares how he made the leap—retiring at just 31 years old. Ryan walks us through his journey from a traditional W-2 career to building wealth through real estate. He breaks down how he acquired rental properties, leveraged equity, and ultimately replaced his income. We also discuss the financial side of investing, property management, and his transition from pharmacist to full-time investor. Plus, Ryan highlights the importance of setting clear goals, starting early, and putting in the work to achieve financial freedom. Get Ryan's free guide for newbies: https://www.newbierealestateinvesting.com/guide Check out Ryan's coaching here: https://www.newbierealestateinvesting.com/real-estate-investment-coaching-program/ Want to create your own seller-financed notes? MAKE SURE YOUR NOTES ARE SELLABLE, VALUABLE, AND COMPLIANT: https://calltheunderwriter.com/ Are you Ready to work with Dan to learn how to invest in notes yourself? SMALL GROUP LIVE COACHING: https://www.fusionnotes.com/livetraining PREMIUM CONTENT: Get a roadmap that shows you a step-by-step path for being a note investor, https://fusionnotes.ac-page.com/gameplan NOTE INVESTING ONLINE COURSES: https://www.fusionnotes.com/courses/ DAN'S LINKS FOR PODCAST LISTENERS: https:www.fusionnotes.com/listeners Get the FREE EBOOK on How to Make Outsized Profits in Notes in 2025: https://fusionnotes.ac-page.com/newsletter-signup-page-podcast WEBSITE: https://fusionnotes.com

Beth has been investing in performing and non-performing notes since 2012. In this podcast she discussed some of the details and nuances involved with reverse mortgages. Connect with Beth here: Beth.Hale@efinitymortgage.com or https://www.linkedin.com/in/bethhalemortgagespecialist/ Want to create your own seller-financed notes? MAKE SURE YOUR NOTES ARE SELLABLE, VALUABLE, AND COMPLIANT: https://calltheunderwriter.com/