Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing

Did you know there’s more than $40 trillion sitting in U.S. retirement accounts — most of which could be invested in real estate? In this episode, Michael Blank chats with Karen Hall, Founder of uDirect IRA and author of The BiggerPockets Guide to Self-Directed IRA Investing, to break down the rules, tax implications, and best practices that allow investors to use their retirement funds to participate in real estate syndications. Whether you're a GP raising capital or an LP investing passively, this conversation will help you unlock one of the biggest capital sources in the world. Key Takeaways: There is $40 trillion in retirement accountssyndications, rentals, notes, crypto, precious metalsprohibited transaction rulesarm’s lengthUBIT/UDFI taxessolo 401(k)alternative investment funds“Do you have retirement funds?” Connect with Michael Facebook Instagram YouTube TikTok Resources TheFreedomPodcast.com Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101) Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors Explore Michael’s Mentoring Program Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club Review the Podcast on Apple Podcasts Syndicated Deal Analyzer Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session498/

In this episode, Michael talks with Jordan McNeely, a former nuclear engineer who realized his rotating 12-hour shift job was draining his energy and keeping him from family life. That sparked his pursuit of passive income and a scalable path to financial freedom through multifamily real estate. Jordan dove into education, joined a mentoring program to master underwriting and capital raising, and committed 15 hours a week to learning and networking. In just a few months, he partnered with an experienced team on a 96-unit deal in Charlotte and raised over $700,000 from friends and family — despite never having raised money before. Key Takeaways: Skip single-family and scale fasterTime freedom was the motivatorMindset shift on raising capitalOne investor conversation per day Partnerships shortcut experience He made time a priority Connect with Michael Facebook Instagram YouTube TikTok Resources TheFreedomPodcast.com Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101) Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors Explore Michael’s Mentoring Program Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club Review the Podcast on Apple Podcasts Syndicated Deal Analyzer Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session497/

Ever wonder what really goes on inside a syndication company? In this rare behind-the-scenes episode, Michael Blank and his Nighthawk Equity business partner, Drew Niffin, pull back the curtain on how they operate their private equity firm — the wins, the painful lessons, and how they’ve adapted during the toughest market the multifamily industry has seen in decades. They share the full story of scaling from the early partnership days… to building a team… to navigating the last 2.5 years of interest rate spikes, stalled rent growth, and operational pressure. You’ll also get a candid look at what’s changing inside Nighthawk — including new investment opportunities being unlocked for passive investors. This is the most transparent discussion they’ve ever recorded about what it really takes to run an investment company — and where multifamily investing is going next. Key Takeaways: Success Takes a Team:Systems Create Stability:Hard Markets Build Strong Operators:Debt Determines Destiny:Operations Win:The Future Is More Than Multifamily:Investor-First Mission: Connect with Michael Facebook Instagram YouTube TikTok Resources TheFreedomPodcast.com Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101) Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors Explore Michael’s Mentoring Program Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club Review the Podcast on Apple Podcasts Syndicated Deal Analyzer Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session496/

Andrew Reichert, CEO of Birgo Capital, went from buying his first duplex with no money down to owning 3,000+ units worth over $300 million. But his journey wasn’t all smooth sailing - Andrew reveals how building a 20-rental portfolio nearly bankrupted him, the “$10M idea” that changed everything, and the lessons he learned scaling his business. Whether you’re stuck managing a handful of single-family rentals or trying to figure out how to break into larger deals, this conversation will help you shortcut years of trial and error. Key Takeaways Why Small Rentals Won’t Set You Free From Duplexes to a $300M Portfolio The Hardest Lesson in Scaling a Company Finding Purpose Beyond Financial Freedom Overcoming Comfort and Taking Action Connect with Andrew LinkedIn Birgo Capital ROS Journey – The Rhino Operating System Book Connect with Michael Facebook Instagram YouTube TikTok Resources TheFreedomPodcast.com Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101) Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors Explore Michael’s Mentoring Program Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club Review the Podcast on Apple Podcasts Syndicated Deal Analyzer Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session495/

Economic pressure is shrinking returns and tightening capital—but there’s a smarter way forward. In this episode, Michael Blank reconnects with Richard Wilson, founder of the Family Office Club, to explore how multifamily operators can add new strategic layers—not abandon their base. Richard explains why family offices are focusing less on projected returns and more on trust, positioning, and access. He breaks down how top operators are earning investor confidence, raising capital through debt and niche strategies, and using AI to scale their investor reach and event ecosystems. This isn’t about leaving multifamily—it’s about unlocking more sophisticated pathways to grow wealth and build influence. Key Takeaways Relationships outweigh returns Multifamily is a foundation Great fund managers think like media companies Family offices play a long game Connect with Richard Website LinkedIn Connect with Michael Facebook Instagram YouTube TikTok Resources TheFreedomPodcast.com Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101) Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors Explore Michael’s Mentoring Program Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club Review the Podcast on Apple Podcasts Syndicated Deal Analyzer

In this special market outlook session, Michael Blank breaks down the current state of the multifamily investing landscape—and explains why Q4 2025 may present one of the best buying opportunities we've seen in over a decade. Despite high interest rates and ongoing fear in the media, Michael shares why the smart money is moving back into multifamily real estate, and how passive and active investors alike can take advantage of this rare window. He also makes a few big announcements—including a move into business acquisitions and real estate debt funds—designed to expand the wealth-building options available to his investor community. If you're wondering whether to sit tight, double down, or make your first move—this is the clarity you're looking for. Key Takeaways Multifamily prices are still 20–40% below their 2022 peak Rising leverage is pushing prices back up Demand for rental housing remains strong Risk-adjusted returns are stronger than in 2022 The Passive Income Calculator helps investors plan their freedom New opportunities are coming from TMB Connect with Michael Facebook Instagram YouTube TikTok Resources TheFreedomPodcast.com Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101) Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors Explore Michael’s Mentoring Program Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club Review the Podcast on Apple Podcasts

Most people raising capital are doing it completely wrong. They focus on flashy decks, mass emails, and trying to “look big”—but investors can smell the inauthenticity from a mile away. Jeremy Dyer took a different approach. He raised $50M in under 2 years by leading with trust, transparency, and one-on-one conversations—all while holding down a full-time tech sales job and raising four kids. In this episode, Michael Blank uncovers the real strategies behind Jeremy’s rise from passive investor to powerhouse capital raiser. You’ll learn how he built a loyal investor base, scaled legally with fund-to-fund models, and is now buying deals at massive discounts while others sit on the sidelines. If you think capital raising is about money—it’s not. It’s about people. Head over to https://thefreedompodcast.com/500 to submit for a chance to win free merch and be highlighted in episode 500!!! Key Takeaways Why LP Experience Makes You a Better Syndicator and Capital Raising is Human, Not Corporate How to Stand Out in a Sea of Noise every week The Right Way to Raise Capital for Others Why Now Is a Massive Buying Opportunity Connect with Jeremy https://www.startingpointcapital.com/ LinkedIn Connect with Michael Facebook Instagram YouTube TikTok Resources TheFreedomPodcast.com Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101) Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors Explore Michael’s Mentoring Program Join the Nighthawk...

Think you need 10 years of house flipping before you can go big in real estate? In this episode, Michael Blank sits down with Kent Ritter—Founder of Hudson Investing and host of Ritter on Real Estate—who scaled from solo operator to managing 2,000+ units and leading his own in-house property management firm. He didn’t wait for permission. He didn’t grind for a decade. He built systems, teams, and a killer culture that made scale inevitable. They unpack how he made the leap from flipping houses to running a real syndication business, and why skipping the “single-family hustle” may be the smartest move you can make. If you’re tired of thinking small, this episode will wake you up. Key Takeaways Why Single-Family Strategies Keep You Stuck How to Build a Real Business (Not Just Do More Deals) overnight The Hidden Challenge of Raising Capital Public-Private Partnerships: The Future of Development? Why the Midwest Is Still Winning Connect with Kent https://www.kentritter.com LinkedIn Instagram Ritter on Real Estate Podcast Youtube Connect with Michael Facebook Instagram YouTube TikTok Resources TheFreedomPodcast.com Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101) Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

Most people are playing the wrong money game—trading time for income, saving their way to retirement, and hoping it adds up by 65. In this episode, $300M multifamily investor Michael Blank shares the 10 money rules that helped him escape the rat race and build scalable, passive wealth through real estate. You’ll learn why flipping houses, single-family rentals, and even high-paying jobs won’t get you free—and what to focus on instead. If you’re serious about using multifamily to take control of your time and income, these rules will reset how you think about money forever. Head over to https://thefreedompodcast.com/500 to submit for a chance to win free merch and be highlighted in episode 500!!! Key Takeaways Michael’s 10 Rules to Get Your Money Right, plus: What’s Really Broken About Retirement (and How to Fix It) The Math Behind Why You’re Still Stuck How Most Real Estate Strategies Still Trap You and One Number That Changes Everything How to Build Wealth Without Using Your Own Money Connect with Michael Facebook Instagram YouTube TikTok Resources TheFreedomPodcast.com Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101) Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors Explore Michael’s Mentoring Program Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club Review the Podcast on Apple Podcasts Syndicated Deal Analyzer

If you’re serious about building wealth through real estate, you can’t afford to ignore the tax side. In this episode, CPA and active investor Sean Graham breaks down how cost segregation and bonus depreciation can save you (and your investors) tens or even hundreds of thousands in taxes—without changing your investment strategy. We cover how to use cost seg the right way, why most CPAs are doing it wrong, and what high earners need to know about the latest tax bill that could bring back 100% bonus depreciation. Whether you're a GP looking to raise smarter or an LP trying to boost after-tax returns, this episode is non-negotiable. Key Takeaways What Cost Segregation Actually Does for You Bonus Depreciation: What It Is, and Why It Matters Using Cost Seg to Raise Capital More Effectively The “Look-Back” Strategy for Missed Depreciation Avoiding Common CPA Mistakes How to Work with a Cost Segregation Firm the Right Way Connect with Sean MavenCostSeg.com/Blank Connect with Michael Facebook Instagram YouTube TikTok Resources TheFreedomPodcast.com Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

Don’t forget to grab your free book! www.TheMichaelBlank.com/QRP Most people don’t know this—but you can invest your IRA or 401(k) in real estate instead of leaving it trapped in mutual funds. In this episode, I’m joined by Damion Lupo, founder of eQRP, to explain exactly how to unlock your retirement savings and use them to invest in apartments, storage, and more. We walk through the process step-by-step, dispel common myths, and show you how to avoid one of the biggest tax traps most investors don’t even see coming: UBIT. Whether you’re a passive investor or a GP raising capital, this is a must-listen. Key Takeaways Why Most Investors Don’t Know About This How Self-Directed Accounts Actually Work The UBIT Tax Trap—and How to Avoid It exemptbefore Smart Strategies for Passive and Active Investors Rules, Limits, and Legacy Planning canno Connect with Damion Lupo GET A FREE BOOK www.TheMichaelBlank.com/QRP Connect with Michael Facebook Instagram YouTube TikTok Resources TheFreedomPodcast.com Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

In just a few years, Chad Schieler went from zero to over 700 units, ditching his high-paying W2 job to build a real syndication business from scratch. And he did it the hard way - solo, self-funded, and battle-tested. In this episode, Michael Blank sits down with Chad to unpack the gritty, unfiltered truth behind the rise of Focus Capital. They dive deep into the growing pains of scaling fast - partnership failures, capital raising fears, management misfires, and what it really takes to build a machine that lasts. If you think you’re ready to go full-time, this episode will either snap you out of it - or show you the way forward. Head over to https://thefreedompodcast.com/500 to submit for a chance to win free merch and be highlighted in episode 500!!! Key Takeaways From W2 to 700+ Units: Why Chad Walked Away The Truth About Partnerships looked Raising Capital When It Doesn’t Come Naturally want Scaling a Real Business (Without Burning Out) When Bigger is Actually Easier Connect with Chad Visit Focus Capital chad@focuscapital.com Connect with Michael Facebook Instagram YouTube TikTok Resources TheFreedomPodcast.com Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101) Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors Explore Michael’s Mentoring Program Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club

This is one of the most tactical, eye-opening conversations we’ve had on market selection. Market selection can make or break your deal before you ever sign a contract. And right now, it’s not just about job growth or population trends anymore. In this episode, Michael Blank is joined by Andrew Meyers, Director of Acquisitions at Nighthawk Equity, to reveal what actually matters when choosing a market—and why most investors are looking at the wrong data. They break down the real drivers of rent growth, how to avoid buying in overheated metros, and what most people overlook that leads to underperforming deals. Plus, Andrew shares where Nighthawk is actively investing right now—and why. Key Takeaways Why Absorption Is the New KPI who’s filling those units The Hidden Danger in “Hot Markets” How to Vet a Submarket Like a Pro Where Nighthawk Is Buying Right Now Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask Connect with Andrew investors@nighthawkequity.com Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club Connect with Michael Facebook Instagram YouTube TikTok Resources TheFreedomPodcast.com Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101) Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors Explore Michael’s Mentoring Program

If you’re trying to scale your real estate business and still asking “How do I do this?”, you’re already falling behind. In this episode, Dr. Benjamin Hardy, author of 10X Is Easier Than 2X and The Science of Scaling, explains why success in multifamily hinges on shifting from "how" to "who." Michael and Ben dig into why most investors get stuck on the wrong path, and how committing to a bold vision — even without knowing the entire roadmap — is the real starting point. This episode is a must-listen for six-figure earners stuck in the single-family grind, trying to leap into commercial real estate and financial freedom. Key Takeaways 1. Why Your 10-Year Plan Is Holding You Back 2. The "Who Not How" Principle for Real Estate Scaling 3. The Psychology of Commitment and Belief outcome 4. Letting Go of the Path That Got You Here 5. Dr. Hardy’s Framework from The Science of Scaling 6. Multifamily as the Ideal Vehicle for Scaling Connect with Dr. Benjamin Hardy Get your free copy of the Science of Scaling audiobook https://scaling.com/ Connect with Michael Facebook Instagram YouTube

Small Bay Industrial (a.k.a. Flex Space) wasn’t on your radar—and for good reason. But what if the most overlooked asset class in commercial real estate turned out to be one of the most profitable? In this episode, Cody Payne, SVP at Colliers, breaks down why Small Bay Flex Industrial is quietly exploding—and why more active and passive investors are taking notice. Cody shares how he transitioned from leasing to owning, how syndication plays a role in the space, and why this niche might outperform retail and office over the next decade. Whether you’re looking to diversify your portfolio or find a less management-intensive asset, this is an episode you don’t want to miss. Key Takeaways Why Flex Industrial Is Heating Up How to Add Real Value with Small Bay Assets Investor Returns: What to Expect Management Made Simple Syndication in Small Bay: A New Frontier Navigating the Market: Deal Flow and Financing Connect with Cody Website Book: Flex Space Domination LinkedIn Connect with Michael Facebook Instagram YouTube TikTok Resources TheFreedomPodcast.com Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101) Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors

What does it take to scale from a 38-unit syndication to 33,000 units across six states—and still never lose investor capital? Jeff Gleiberman of MG Properties breaks it down. In this episode, Jeff shares the core principles that helped his family-run firm grow into one of the top 50 apartment owners in the U.S. You'll hear how they’ve weathered multiple market cycles, why they’re buying newer assets right now, and how disciplined underwriting, fixed-rate debt, and vertical integration have become their unfair advantages. Whether you're raising capital, comparing asset classes, or trying to read the market—this episode is required listening. Key Takeaways From Family Syndication to Institutional Scale How MG Navigates Market Cycles Why Vertical Integration is a Competitive Advantage How to Attract Serious Capital (Without Chasing High IRRs) Current Strategy: Core-Plus Over Value-Add The Discipline Behind $1.8B in Acquisitions (In a Down Market) Connect with Jeff mgproperties.com Connect with Michael Facebook Instagram YouTube TikTok Resources TheFreedomPodcast.com Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)

If you think you need experience, deals, or wealthy connections to raise capital… think again. In this episode, Michael Blank walks through exactly how first-time investors are raising $500K to $1M in 60 days—even without a track record. You’ll learn how to shift your mindset, start conversations without being salesy, and build unstoppable momentum using the relationships you already have. This is the roadmap for raising money as a beginner. Key Takeaways Why You Don’t Need Experience to Raise Capital How to Find People With Money (Hint: You Already Know Them) What to Say (and NOT Say) to Potential Investors Why One-on-One Works Better Than Social Media (at First) What to Do If You’re Not a Natural Capital Raiser The Simple System That Helps Beginners Raise $500K–$1M Fast Connect with GUEST Connect with Michael Facebook Instagram YouTube TikTok Resources TheFreedomPodcast.com Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101) Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors Explore Michael’s Mentoring Program Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club Review the Podcast on Apple Podcasts

What should you really ask before wiring $100K into a multifamily deal? In this special episode, Michael sits down with Nighthawk’s Garrett Lynch and Drew Kniffin to run through 50 of the most important questions every passive investor should be asking—and every active investor should know how to answer. From deal structure and cash flow mechanics to team accountability, tax strategy, and risk mitigation, this is your behind-the-scenes guide to how Nighthawk operates—and how to evaluate any syndicator with clarity and confidence. Whether you’re an LP looking to invest smarter or an aspiring operator trying to earn trust, this episode is required listening. Key Takeaways 50 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask (And Every Active Investor Must Answer), including: Nighthawk’s Track Record and Operating Philosophy Understanding Returns, Distributions & Deal Structure Syndications vs. Other Investment Models The Passive Investing Mindset Taxes, Depreciation & IRAs How to Vet Deals and Sponsors Like a Pro Connect with Nighthawk Equity Take the Free Mini-Course at NighthawkEquity.com Schedule a Call & Join Our Investor Club Connect with Michael Facebook Instagram YouTube

Eric Nelson thought buying one rental a year would lead to financial freedom. But after years of grinding, he realized he was just building another job. In this episode, Eric breaks down how he shifted from single-family rentals to a 1,000+ unit multifamily portfolio—and why mindset, mentorship, and the right partnerships made all the difference. We dig into the painful lessons, the strategic pivots, and the exact steps that helped Eric quit his W-2, move his family to Spain, and build a business that supports his life. If you’re trying to scale—or stuck doing it all yourself—this is the episode you’ve been waiting for. Key Takeaways Why “One Rental a Year” Doesn’t Work The Case for Multifamily Over Rentals less risky How Mentorship Accelerated His Success Raising Capital as a Service, Not a Favor Why Right Now Is a Great Time to Get In From Hamster Wheel to Freedom in Spain Connect with Eric Instagram Wild Oak Capital Connect with Michael Facebook Instagram YouTube TikTok Resources TheFreedomPodcast.com Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101) Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors Explore Michael’s Mentoring Program Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club

In this episode, Michael Blank is joined by seasoned investor Paul Moore, founder of Wellings Capital, to unpack the journey from flipping houses and chasing every real estate strategy… to raising over $200 million in capital and building a fund-based business that finally delivered real wealth. Paul shares how a single moment with a mentor forced him to stop winging it and build a true capital-raising system. They dive deep into how capital raisers can grow with or without a deal, the myths about passive income, and why commercial real estate is fundamentally different (and more powerful) than residential. This episode is a masterclass in focus, mindset shifts, and breaking through plateaus by specializing. Key Takeaways: Passive Income Is a Lie—Until You Do This:Focus Beats Hustle:Raising Capital Is a Skill, Not a Gift:Why the "Old Boys Club" Ignores You:Commercial Real Estate Is Based on Math, Not Hype:force appreciationThe Fund Manager Model: Connect with Paul Moore: Website:wellingscapital.comResources:Books:The Perfect InvestmentStoring Up ProfitsWarren Buffett’s Rules for Real Estate InvestorsSocial Media:Paul Moore Wellings CapitalPhilanthropy:aimfree.org Connect with Michael Facebook Instagram YouTube TikTok Resources TheFreedomPodcast.com Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101) Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors Explore Michael’s Mentoring Program Join the Nighthawk Equity Investor...