Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing

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...

Forget what you’ve been told about retirement. In this episode, Michael Blank breaks down why chasing the dream of sitting on a beach at 65 is not just outdated—it’s dangerous. He unpacks the flawed math behind 401(k)s, FIRE, and single-family rentals, and lays out a smarter, faster path to freedom through multifamily syndications. If you're a high-income earner chasing control over your time, this episode will reframe how you think about “retirement” and show you how to buy your time back—on your terms. Key Takeaways Retirement Is Not the Goal—Freedom Is options The Math of Retirement Doesn’t Work Why the FIRE Movement Falls Short Why Rentals Are Better—But Still Not Enough Multifamily Syndications: The Fast Track to Freedom multiple Break the “DIY” Trap: Why Coaching Matters Connect with Nighthawk Equity 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 Join the...

How do you scale to 350 multifamily units in a high-regulation, tenant-friendly market like Massachusetts—starting with a single house hack and a HELOC? In this episode, Andrew Freed breaks down how he did exactly that. He shares how he transitioned from a high-paying W-2 to full-time real estate investor, why he leaned into a market most investors avoid, and how strategic partnerships and capital raising unlocked serious growth. You’ll learn what actually worked, what didn’t, and how Andrew built a business that now self-manages 250+ units—all without starting rich or flashy. If you're serious about scaling and want a real-world blueprint from someone who's done it in a tough market, this one's worth your time. Key Takeaways Turning a W-2 Into a Real Estate Exit Plan way How to Go from One House Hack to Hundreds of Units Raising Capital Without Feeling Salesy or Sleazy Investing Where No One Else Wants To Partnering the Right Way (So You Don’t Get Burned) Connect with Andrew https://freedommanagement.net/ LinkedIn Facebook 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

In this episode of The Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing podcast, Marcin Drozdz breaks down the exact playbook he used to raise over $100M for multifamily deals—even in challenging market conditions. He shares why multifamily remains the smartest path to financial freedom, how to raise capital without prior experience, and what new investors must focus on to close their first (or next) deal faster. If you want to scale with other people’s money and build lasting wealth, this episode gives you the blueprint. Key Takeaways How Marcin Built a $100M+ Capital Raising Machine Why Multifamily Beats Other Real Estate Strategies How to Raise Capital Without a Track Record Avoiding the Biggest Mistakes New Investors Make Marcin’s Advice for Scaling a Real Estate Portfolio Connect with Marcin Download Marcin's "Unlimited Investor Leads" Book Website Instagram Linkedin Facebook 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...

In this powerful episode, Michael Blank sits down with Ben Reinberg, founder of Alliance CGC, to break down how he built a $500M+ commercial real estate portfolio—starting with a 95,000 sq. ft. industrial building at just 23 years old. Ben shares how he raised capital with no track record, the key mindset shifts that fueled his growth, and why personal development is the hidden engine behind building wealth. You’ll also learn why commercial real estate—not single-family rentals—is the path most millionaires quietly use to generate generational wealth, and how to shift your focus (and comfort zone) to play a much bigger game. Key Takeaways Study Wealth, Not Just Real Estate:wealthy peopleYou Don’t Need to Know Everything—Just Build the Right Team:Raising Capital Is Not About Sales—It’s About Value & Relationships:Personal Growth = Business Growth:Hard Assets Win Long-Term: Connect with Ben Reinberg Website:AllianceCGC.comPersonal Site:BenReinberg.com"Hard Assets for Hard Times"ObsessedInstagram, YouTube, LinkedIn:Ben ReinbergBook:Hard Assets for Hard Times 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

Rob Beardsley didn’t flip houses. He didn’t save up for years. Instead, he went straight from college to commercial real estate—and scaled to $750M in acquisitions in just seven years. In this episode, Rob breaks down how he used partnerships, mindset, and relentless focus to overcome limited capital, lack of experience, and a steep learning curve. You'll learn what it really takes to scale a multifamily business from zero, how to raise capital without a track record, and why operating in today’s market is the ultimate advantage. If you’re serious about building a business—not just doing deals—this is a can’t-miss episode. Key Takeaways From College Kid to $750M Operator How to Raise Capital Without a Track Record is The Power of Partnerships in Multifamily What Most Investors Get Wrong About Scaling Lessons from $750M in Deals (and What Rob Would Do Differently) What It Takes to Succeed in Today’s Market Connect with Rob https://lscre.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

Think you need years of experience or loads of cash to invest in multifamily? Think again. In this solo episode, Michael Blank busts the two biggest myths that keep people from getting started in apartment syndications: lack of experience and lack of capital. He shares real-life strategies for building a winning team, raising money as a beginner, and scaling fast—even if you're starting from scratch. Key Takeaways: Experience ≠ Access:team’sBuild the Right Team:Capital Raising Is a Learnable Skill:Focus on “Who,” Not “How”:Anyone Can Start: 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/session473/

In this episode of the Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing podcast, I sit down with two of our Deal Maker Mentoring students — Ryan Kindred and Russell Cannon — who broke free from the grind and did something most people only talk about: they bought a 240-unit self-storage facility and raised $1.9 million to do it. Ryan and Russ didn’t grow up in real estate. They weren’t born entrepreneurs. But they took action, surrounded themselves with the right people, and now they’re building a portfolio that’s changing their lives forever. Whether you're a high-income earner ready to pivot, or a burned-out investor trying to scale, this episode is packed with real talk, tactical steps, and one heck of a comeback story. Key Takeaways From the Corporate Grind to Full-Time Investors theirs Crushing Limiting Beliefs That Keep Most People on the Sidelines exactly Behind the Scenes of Their $1.9M Raise on a 240-Unit Deal Why Mentorship and Community Made All the Difference actually What’s Next: Scaling Up & Building a Real Estate Business Connect with Ryan and Russell LinkedIn - Ryan Kindred LinkedIn - Russell Cannon Sable Capital Website Connect with Michael Facebook Instagram YouTube TikTok Resources TheFreedomPodcast.com Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course

If you think property management is just about collecting rent and fixing toilets, you're leaving serious money on the table. In this episode, I’m sitting down with Robert Parmar to talk about how the best operators are using systems and tech to run their properties more profitably — and why poor management is the fastest way to kill your financial freedom. Robert’s pulling back the curtain on the biggest mistakes property managers make (and what it’s really costing you), the secret sauce that separates good from great, and the practical systems you can use to finally step out of the day-to-day — without sacrificing profits. Whether you're managing yourself or outsourcing it, if you want more cash flow, less stress, and more freedom, you can't afford to miss this one. Key Takeaways Leveraging Technology for Better Remote Management Biggest Mistakes Property Managers Make What Makes a Great Property Manager Stand Out must Property Management Best Practices that Crush Connect with Robert rparmar@smfield.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 Equity Investor Club Review the Podcast on Apple Podcasts

In this solo episode, Michael Blank shares the raw truth behind why he stopped flipping houses and made the game-changing leap into multifamily investing. He breaks down the exact moment that shift happened, how it transformed his life and finances, and why multifamily syndication is hands-down the fastest, safest, and most scalable path to financial freedom with real estate. Key Takeaways: Flipping Wasn’t Freedom:Multifamily = Mailbox Money:Syndications Create Wealth Fast:Multifamily Is Low Risk:You Don’t Need Experience or Cash: 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/session470/

In this episode, Michael Blank and Garrett Lynch talk with Axel Ragnarsson, who scaled from self-funding small multifamily deals to building a 500+ unit portfolio and raising over $15 million in capital. Axel shares the turning point that forced him to move beyond his DIY approach, how he overcame mental blocks around partnering and raising money, and what it really takes to grow in today’s market. Whether you're early in your investing journey or looking to level up, Axel’s story offers powerful insights. Key Takeaways: Self-Funding Has Limits:Mindset is Everything:Adapt or Miss Out:Scale with Purpose: 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/session469/

In this special episode of the Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing podcast, Michael Blank sits down with his mentors—Barry Flavin, Brad Tacia, Jonathan Nichols, Paula Nichols, and Philippe Schulligen—for a powerhouse discussion. These incredible mentors, who’ve helped countless students achieve their multifamily investing goals, share their wisdom, personal journeys, and actionable tips for getting started or scaling up in real estate. Whether you’re working on your first deal or growing your portfolio, this episode is packed with inspiration and strategies to guide you to financial freedom. Key Takeaways: Current Market Outlook: The Role of Brokers: Student Success Stories: Capital Raising Strategies: The Value of Mentorship: This episode is packed with actionable insights and real-life examples from the world of multifamily syndication. If you are looking to delve deeper into real estate investing and have access to expert guidance, consider exploring mentorship options on theMichaelBlanc.com/mentor. Connect with Jonathan and Paula Nichols Jonathan’s Mentor Bio Paula’s Mentor Bio Apogee Capital Paula Instagram Jonathan Instagram Connect with Philippe Schulligen Mentor Bio Boost Capital Group Philippe LinkedIn Connect with Michael Facebook Instagram YouTube

In this episode, Michael Blank delves into the art of raising capital for real estate, highlighting the importance of using other people's money to build a real estate empire. He discusses the common mistakes people make when raising capital and shares insights on overcoming these challenges. Key Takeaways: Understanding Limiting Beliefs:Avoiding Common Mistakes:The Importance of Networking and Education:Referrals and Expanding Your Network:Leveraging IRA Money:Scaling by Raising Money Online:The Who, Not How Mentality: 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/session467/

In this episode of The Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing podcast, Michael Blank sits down with Scott Todd, a Deal Maker who successfully transitioned into multifamily real estate. Scott shares how he closed his first deal, the key lessons he learned along the way, and how he overcame the fear and obstacles that stop many investors from taking action. If you’re on the fence about multifamily investing, this episode is packed with practical insights that will give you the confidence to move forward. Key Takeaways Key Takeaways How Scott Got Started in Real EstateLessons from His First Multifamily DealOvercoming Fear and Taking ActionFinding the Right Support SystemScaling Beyond the First Deal Connect with Scott 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 Get the Book, Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing by Michael Blank For full episode show notes visit: https://themichaelblank.com/podcasts/session466/

Welcome to another episode of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing! In this special episode, we bring you a deep dive into Nighthawk Equity with all the partners in the house – Garrett Lynch, Drew Kniffin, and our very own Michael Blank. It's been a while since the last team update, which was back in episode 414, where we discussed a deal that we didn't do. This time, we're pulling back the curtain to share where Nighthawk started, the lessons learned, and what lies ahead in their journey to scale and face market challenges. On this episode, Michael, Drew, and Garrett discuss everything from the origins of Nighthawk, the trials of joint ventures, the importance of asset management, to mastering the art of raising capital. Learn about their transition to focusing deeper into specific geographies and how they're adapting to today's market conditions. Key Takeaways: Join the Nighthawk team as they reflect on their past, share valuable insights into their operations, and look forward with anticipation to what’s next in real estate investing. If you're ready to take the next steps toward financial freedom, whether actively or passively, they're here to guide you. Visit thefreedompodcast.com to discover resources customized for your journey. Whether you're looking to find deals as an operator or become a passive investor, this is your starting point. Catch the energy of this episode, and as always, happy investing! For more information on achieving financial freedom through real estate investing, visit thefreedompodcast.com. Let's get you one step closer to financial independence! 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...

Are you intrigued by the current state of the real estate market? Curious about how drastic changes over the past two years have impacted multifamily investing? Join hosts Michael Blank and Garrett Lynch as they dissect the whirlwind shifts in the real estate market, akin to a 7 to 10 year cycle compressed into just two years. Today’s episode tackles the burning question: Is now the right time to dive into multifamily investing or should you hold off for a more stable market? Michael and Garrett kick off the conversation by discussing the importance of adapting investment strategies in line with market cycles, underscoring that timing the market shouldn’t be the primary focus. They delve into how conservative underwriting can shield investors from making costly mistakes, especially in volatile conditions. Listen in as the hosts explore what has changed dramatically over the past two years, including interest rates, loan terms, and the risk-adjusted returns that investors should be aware of. They also draw parallels to the 2008 financial crisis, offering insights on how the current environment might mirror opportunities seen in the past. Key Takeaways In this episode, Michael and Garrett provide valuable insights for both passive investors and those looking to actively engage in multifamily real estate. They encourage listeners to assess their investment strategies, considering both the current environment and future market potential. For more resources and to engage with the hosts on this topic, visit: thefreedompodcast.com. Tune in to explore whether now is the opportune moment for your next real estate investment! 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