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- 789 - How Much Should a House Hack Make in 2027? (Rookie Reply)
Can the numbers on your house hack still work when your tenant's rent doesn't come close to covering the mortgage? And if it won't cash flow, how much should a house hack actually make in 2027? Today, we're uncovering the hidden benefits and forgotten expenses that change the math! Welcome back to another Rookie Reply! Today, we're answering three questions most house hackers have asked at some point. After running the numbers, one investor would still be paying over $2,000 a month out of pocket. Is house hacking a thing of the past in expensive markets? Not quite! We'll redefine a “winning” house hack and share ways to squeeze more income out of the same property with investing strategies like renting by the room, mid-term rentals, or what we’re calling the "mega house hack." Another investor looking to house hack is getting wildly different advice about what cash-on-cash return to expect. We'll show you why there's not one "right" number, what to weigh besides cash flow, and how a tighter buy box reveals what a deal can really earn. Plus, we settle what "break-even" really means and share the tools that ensure you never miss an expense. Don't let imperfect numbers talk you out of a good first house hack, or into a bad one! By the end of this episode, you'll know how to run your numbers the right way and spot a great deal you might have passed on otherwise. Looking to invest? Need answers? Ask your question here! In This Episode We Cover Whether house hacking still works in expensive markets Redefining a "successful" house hack when the tenant can't cover the mortgage The "mega house hack" that stacks strategies to boost income on both sides What "break-even" really means (and the expenses most rookies forget) What cash-on-cash return you should expect in today's market How a tighter buy box helps you predict your real returns And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-778. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, 02 Oct 2026 - 788 - How to Go From 1 to 10 Rentals with "The Stack" Method
The idea of building and scaling a rental portfolio can seem daunting to most rookies starting off. What if we told you there's a realistic, proven formula most rookies don't discover until they've already taken their first step? Today, we're walking you through a method for turning one deal into 10 (or more) without needing a ton of cash! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! If you're a new investor, financial freedom can feel far away, but what if we told you that you could go from a single rental property to 10 units in just a few years? The stack method is a proven formula that helps investors build their portfolios on realistic timelines, with realistic budgets! Today we’re breaking down exactly how it works, and how to double your portfolio size with every deal. We’ll walk through the full stack playbook step by step, how house hacking combined with HELOCs (home equity lines of credit) can fund your next down payment, how to get that down payment to just 3-5%, and the best markets for stacking in 2026. You don't need hundreds of thousands of dollars to get started, you just need to follow the easy steps in today’s episode! In This Episode We Cover How the stack method turns one rental into a 10-unit portfolio in just a few years Why house hacking makes your first few stacks dramatically easier to afford Using a HELOC (home equity line of credit) to fund your next down payment without touching your savings The real numbers: stacking vs. buying single-family rentals one at a time The best markets for stacking in 2026, and how to spot a strong price-to-rent ratio And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-777. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, 30 Sep 2026 - 787 - Seller Financing His First Rental When No Bank Would Lend
What happens when your first deal turns into the money pit you were afraid of? For a lot of rookies, that fear alone delays buying a rental property for years. But today's guest proves that a rough first deal can still launch a successful portfolio! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! Joshua Settimio went from cleaning beach rentals in high school to working as a real estate agent, and then soon realizing that he wanted to buy the deals he was selling. His catch was that no bank would lend to him so early in his career. Joshua decided not to stop there. He found a house with a termite issue and a tenant who hadn't paid rent in over a year, and asked the owner for seller financing. The rest was history! Today, Joshua estimates his portfolio at 70 properties across four partnerships! Joshua explains how he got the non-paying tenant out without an attorney, and why the rehab dragged on for about a year. He also shares how a detailed scope of work and an “as-completed” appraisal finally got a bank to say yes, and how he used the property's equity through a line of credit to buy his next deal! Your first deal doesn't have to be perfect. It just has to teach you enough to get to the next one! Joshua’s approach towards real estate shows that not every investor’s journey is linear, but with the right mindset, anyone can build a portfolio! In This Episode We Cover How to buy your first rental when banks won't lend to you Where empathy ends and boundaries begin with a non-paying tenant Getting a non-paying tenant moved out without hiring an attorney How an “as-completed” appraisal unlocks financing for your rehab Turning one property's equity into your next real estate deal And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-776. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 28 Sep 2026 - 786 - You've Got a 100% Financing Deal. Do You Take It? (Rookie Reply)
Great deals are hard to find as a rookie, so when one lands in your lap, it can feel like you just struck gold. But how do you actually know if it's the real thing, or if there's a catch? Today, we're breaking down how to evaluate a low-money-down deal when one comes your way, and exactly what to look for before you say yes. Welcome back to Rookie Reply! First, we’re helping a rookie weigh a 100% financing offer his agent is warning him away from—what actually makes a deal like this worth the risk attached to a “no money down” loan? We map out our best advice moving forward, and how to think about reserves for the unexpected. We’re also helping a rookie reverse-engineer his very first house hack, working through when to bring an agent into the picture, and how to walk into an FHA inspection. Finally, a 20-year-old dad who's done all the studying but is still too scared to pull the trigger on his first deal. We offer the next best steps on how he can comfortably make that decision without risking hard financial hits! Looking to invest? Need answers? Ask your question here! In This Episode We Cover How to tell if a 100% financing offer (0% down) is worth the risk Managing reserves for the deals that don't go as planned Reverse-engineering your very first house hack (exact steps to take) Knowing exactly when to bring an agent into the picture on your first deal Walking into an FHA inspection fully prepared (and what they’ll look for!) The mindset shift that makes your first deal feel possible And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-775. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, 25 Sep 2026 - 785 - Multifamily vs. Single-Family Investing: Which Is Better for Beginners?
Every rookie investor arrives at the same fork in the road early on: single-family home or multifamily. Which one's actually the better option? The property type you choose first can shape how fast you cash flow and how quickly you're able to scale your real estate portfolio. Today, we're breaking down both approaches so you can make that choice with confidence! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie Podcast! We're covering the real pros, cons, and differences between single-family and multifamily investing, including how your first rental property affects your options down the road. We're also running deal analysis on a similar single-family home and duplex to show you exactly where the major differences lie and dig into the numbers to see which path actually builds more wealth. While the decision largely depends on your market, budget, and time, this episode shows you exactly how to weigh those factors against your own goals. By the end, you'll know which property type will get you where you want to go! In This Episode We Cover Whether you should invest in single-family or multifamily for your first rental The catch with some high-cash-flow multifamily properties Real numbers on two deals (including cash flow!) The challenges of house hacking a single-family home Why financing becomes more difficult past a fourplex Which type of rental property we’d buy if we were starting over today And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-774. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, 23 Sep 2026 - 784 - How to Turn One Condo Into a 17-Unit Rental Portfolio!
Getting into an expensive market can feel completely out of reach for a rookie. But today’s guest looked at the numbers and realized that if he worked this in his favor, he could build reliable, long-term wealth. That math led him to 17 doors across three states, and today, he’s breaking down all his tips so you can start, and scale, too! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! In December 2009, Rick Albert was a broke college senior when he was introduced to a successful real estate investor. That meeting sent Rick down a path that started with an LA condo that many overlooked. He managed to see past the issues, and house hacked the unit with just 10% down. That single deal became the foundation for everything: a HELOC that funded an ambitious ADU conversion, a renovation that took three times longer than planned, and eventually a portfolio spanning 17 units across 3 states, with his business partner. Today Rick breaks down his advice on investing in high-cost markets, the numbers behind his deals, and what he'd do differently if he had to start over with no money. He also covers the unusual trick he used to cover his own closing costs, and what he did with the $228K he walked away with when he finally sold that first condo! If you've ever assumed a market like LA is off-limits for a rookie, this episode says otherwise! In This Episode We Cover How to turn a "problem" property into your first house hack Why cash flow isn't the only way to build wealth How to use a HELOC (home equity line of credit) to fund your next deal Why moving into your own rental can unlock a better refinance without an appraisal How to keep a renovation alive when the money runs short What to do with a six-figure gain once you sell The lender trick that puts money back in your pocket at closing And So Much More! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 21 Sep 2026 - 783 - Don't Buy a House Hack Until You've Checked These Numbers (Rookie Reply)
Investing in your first house hack but not sure whether the deal makes sense in the long run? House hacking is the way most rookies get started in real estate, and we’re breaking down how to analyze those deals to make sure you’re starting off strong! Welcome back to Rookie Reply! We’re back, answering three of your burning questions straight from the BiggerPockets Forums. In this episode, a rookie wants to try his first house hack but needs to know exactly what to analyze in a duplex vs. a single-family home. We’re breaking down the three factors that decide if it makes sense in their market, including a "supermax" strategy most rookies haven't even considered! We’re also weighing in on whether an investor should buy local or out of state for their first long-term rental, and the one trend rookies need to check before choosing a market! Finally, a rookie who is torn between a duplex or a vacation home gets an answer with a twist: the tax loophole that could make one option the smarter buy. Three very different scenarios, but all packed with strategies that will help you on your buying journey, and a clear path to building your long-term wealth! Looking to invest? Need answers? Ask your question here! In This Episode We Cover The three numbers that make or break a house hack deal (always run these) The "supermax" strategy for maxing out your house hack returns Why negative cash flow isn't always a bad sign Backyard vs. out-of-state investing: which wins for your first rental The tax loophole most rookies have no idea about (very useful if you have a BIG tax bill) And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-772. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, 18 Sep 2026 - 782 - 8+ Ways to Find Your First or Next Rental Property in 2027
Finding real estate deals is a challenge for many rookies. Trying to tell the difference between a great deal and a property that is merely disguised as one is something usually only experienced investors see through. But in this episode, we’re sharing some of the best strategies we use to find real estate deals—including a few options you’ve probably never heard of! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! Today, we’re breaking down eight different ways to find your first (or next) rental property! First, you’ll need to build your buy box so that you know exactly which types of properties to look for and where to find them. But then, we’ll show you how to work through the MLS the smart way, find real estate deals via word-of-mouth, and use seller concessions, wholesalers, and pocket listings to buy undervalued properties. We’ll even share an often-overlooked opportunity that could help you buy an entire real estate portfolio in one transaction! For each strategy, we’ll get into the real advantages and drawbacks, so you know exactly which of these channels fits where you are right now. Finally, we’ll show you exactly what to track so your hard work actually translates into your next deal! In This Episode We Cover The best ways to find great real estate deals in 2027 Why you must build your buy box before searching for deals How to use the MLS (multiple listing service) like an experienced investor The secret to finding “hidden” rental portfolios (and how to negotiate them!) The pros and cons of using word-of-mouth to land deals What a pocket listing really is, and how to get on an agent's shortlist How to effectively manage your direct-to-seller outreach campaigns And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-771. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, 16 Sep 2026 - 781 - Two Rentals, $3,000 Each: The Guide to Closing with Close-to-Nothing
You don't have to live near your rental, or bring a huge check to closing, to build a real estate portfolio. Today’s guest closed both her deals with only $3,000 out of pocket for each deal, and in a city she'd never even visited. We’re walking through how she did it, and how you can get started, too! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! Thomasina Myresa grew up learning how to save. And while she was good at it, it was only when her career was put on hold that she found BiggerPockets, and the art of investing. After finding her mentor, Thomasina went on to close her first deal just five months later! More impressively, it was out-of-state, and with only $3,000 down. Thomasina walks us through how she used the seller concession strategy to keep her closing costs tiny—twice, what she looked for in a property management company (and why she fired one within the first week), and how she scaled from a single family rental to now house hacking a $325,000 duplex. Thomasina’s smart and humble approach to scaling while finding her purpose and niche as a landlord is an all-round inspiring journey, and one that any rookie can relate to! Find out how you can use Thomasina’s strategies to get your journey started in as little as five months! In This Episode We Cover The seller concession trick that got her to closing with only $3,000, twice How a career-halting moment pushed her to pivot into real estate Saving vs. investing, and the career fool-proofing that real estate offers! The rent hike mistake that cost her her first tenant, and the lesson it taught her How to house hack using the rent-by-the-room investing strategy Why she fired her property manager after just one week And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-770. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 14 Sep 2026 - 780 - Should You Keep or Sell a Rental Property That Needs Work? (Rookie Reply)
Your first rental cash flows just fine, but it needs some work, and in order to scale your portfolio, the next big decision hits: Should you hold and repair, or sell it and cash in? Today, we’ll show you how to tell a “keeper” from a potential money pit before you spend a dollar more! Welcome back to another Rookie Reply! This week we’re tackling three more questions from the BiggerPockets Forums. First up, we’ll hear from a couple choosing between house hacking and flipping houses and show them why it might not have to be either/or. Next, an NYC investor is debating between two real estate markets, and we’re breaking down how to *make his money go as far as possible.* Finally, a landlord’s first long-term rental needs significant repairs, and he’s questioning if it’s worth renovating or if it’s finally time to sell. There’s a crucial step he needs to take before making that decision, and we’re uncovering exactly what it is! Looking to invest? Need answers? Ask your question here! In This Episode We Cover How to determine whether you should keep (and fix) or sell a rental property Why it’s crucial to get real repair estimates before assuming the worst Why house hacking and flipping don’t have to be mutually exclusive Financing options that can get you into a property with little to no money down How to choose between two (great) real estate markets And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-769. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, 11 Sep 2026 - 779 - 8 Ways to Get More Passive Income from Your Rental Properties
Every hour you spend chasing rent or coordinating a repair is an hour you could’ve spent growing your real estate portfolio or doing the things you actually enjoy. The fix? It’s not working harder, but building the systems that free up your time. When done right, you can get more passive income from your rentals, and we’ll show you exactly how to do it! Welcome back to another episode of the Real Estate Rookie podcast! Today, we’re breaking down eight ways to get your rentals working for you, so that your portfolio generates more passive income and doesn’t just give you a second job. No rental is ever fully hands-off, but the right tools, systems, and processes can get you much closer. We’re walking through what that looks like, the difference between property management and asset management, and the software that automates the busywork! If you want real estate investing to feel more like an actual investment and less like a job, this episode is your roadmap! In This Episode We Cover The best ways to get more passive income from your rental properties The difference between property management and asset management How buying turnkey real estate or new construction limits maintenance Software that automates rent collection, maintenance requests, and other tasks How preventative maintenance saves you time (and money!) When hiring a virtual assistant is actually worth it And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-768. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, 09 Sep 2026 - 778 - He Started 8 Months Ago. He Already Has 4 Rentals ($6,000 Cash Flow!)
People say it’s just too hard to find real estate deals in 2026, but today’s guest is proving them all wrong. He’s already bought four rental properties that make over $6,000 in monthly cash flow, and he’s been investing in real estate for just eight months. Joe Crocker is eager to trade his 70-hour workweek for financial freedom, and he’s on track to replace his W-2 income with rental cash flow in the next two years. He’s not finding these properties by building lists, cold calling, or sending mailers. These are regular deals right off the MLS. He buys one, adds some value, pulls his money out, and buys the next one. It’s a simple investing strategy that anyone can use, yet most people don’t. Meanwhile, Joe has already completed multiple deals this year and is well on his way to building a cash-flowing rental portfolio that gives him the money, time, and freedom he’s always wanted. Follow his model, and there’s no reason why you can’t, too! In This Episode We Cover The exact strategy Joe’s using to replace his income with rental cash flow Scaling to four rental properties in just eight months while working his W-2 job The simple property tax strategy that can instantly boost your cash flow How to find overlooked, undervalued real estate deals in 2026 (on the MLS!) Why you should go into every real estate deal with at least two exit strategies And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-767. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 07 Sep 2026 - 777 - How to Buy Your First Multifamily Rental With Low Money (Rookie Reply)
You’ve picked an investing strategy, you’ve studied your market, but now you need the money to get started. You’re not alone, as this is perhaps the most common hurdle for rookie investors. But today, we’ll show you how to work around this and get the funding you need, so you can finally buy your first (or next) rental property! Welcome back to another Rookie Reply! This week, we're tackling three questions from the BiggerPockets Forums. One investor has $250,000 saved but is stuck between strategies in a market where the numbers don't easily work, while a SoCal investor is trying to find a more landlord-friendly real estate market to invest in. We’ll share the one habit that quietly derails a lot of new investors once opportunities start rolling in, and when "close to home" is a real requirement versus just a security blanket. And our last question comes from someone who needs the actual money to buy his first multifamily property. We’ll share our favorite creative financing options, as well as the two skills any rookie can use to attract potential investing partners! Looking to invest? Need answers? Ask your question here! In This Episode We Cover What to consider before buying in an expensive real estate market Creative ways to make real estate deals cash flow (even in pricey areas) How to make consistent, passive returns with private money lending How to narrow down your ideal market and property type by building a buy box The skills that make investors want to partner with you (even with low money) When you should say no to a deal or real estate investing partnership And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-766. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, 04 Sep 2026 - 776 - Build Your First Rental (DON'T Buy One) in 2026
Builders are currently offering huge incentives on new construction homes, to the point where buying "new" might be actually cheaper than buying an existing rental property in your market right now. Today we’re breaking down how this overlooked investing strategy is saving rookies much more than you realize! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! This week, we’re making the case for new builds as a very strong rental strategy: why builders are currently offering incentives that are hard to pass on, how to negotiate on a spec home, how to buy them with low money down, and the difference between buying new inventory and building from the ground up. We’re also digging into walk-in equity and how getting into an early phase of a new community can put you ahead on day one. We’ll also walk you through what to actually budget for land, financing, permitting, and your team before you even commit to a ground-up build. If you're weighing building versus buying for your next rental, this episode will help you make up your mind. New doesn't have to mean expensive. Sometimes it means a better deal that’s just hiding in plain sight! In This Episode We Cover Why many new construction homes are cheaper than resale homes in 2026 Why builders are offering massive incentives (and how to negotiate them!) The differences between buying a spec home and building from scratch How walk-in equity works, and how to actually get it on your next property What to budget for land, permits, and your team before you build And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-765. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, 02 Sep 2026 - 775 - He Made $60,000 in 2 Months with This “Failed” Real Estate Deal
Every rookie thinks their first deal will go according to plan (it almost never does). Today, we’re bringing on a guest who had a long list of all the worst-case scenarios that happened to him, and still walked away winning (to the tune of $60,000!). He’s walking us through it all, so you can master your first deal, too! Welcome back to another episode of the Real Estate Rookie Podcast! This week, we’re sitting down with Caleb Smith, a real estate agent who bought his first rental at 21 with next to nothing in the bank, and then watched two very different deals go sideways in two very different ways! One taught him an expensive lesson about lenders. The other got hit by a zoning surprise nobody could have predicted, and forced him to pivot on the spot. Getting your numbers right isn't always enough. Sometimes the thing that changes everything isn't the market, the property, or the strategy—it's something buried in a permit office you never saw coming! If you're trying to figure out how to get your first deal done with limited capital, wondering what can quietly derail your plan, or just want to hear how a rookie handles it when things don't go the way he expected—today’s episode has real numbers, real setbacks, and a few hard-won lessons worth taking with you into your next deal! In This Episode We Cover How Caleb bought his first rental at 21 with only $2,000 to his name Pivoting to a live-in flip strategy (and the huge benefits of doing so!) How to knock on doors to find off-market investment properties Turning a seller credit into an interest rate buydown The $10,000 origination fee mistake that taught him to shop lenders Surviving a falling chimney, botched kitchen, and a zoning reversal mid-deal! And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-764. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 31 Aug 2026 - 774 - How to Prepare for Your First Rental Property (Beginner Steps) (Rookie Reply)
Don’t feel ready to buy your first rental property yet? Maybe you just need a better game plan. Today, we’re covering three different but common situations rookies find themselves in leading up to that first deal. Whether you need a few actionable first steps or an extra push, we’ll show you how to get started as soon as possible! Welcome back to another Rookie Reply! This week, we’re tackling three questions from rookies who all have the same underlying worry: they don’t feel ready to invest in real estate. First up, we’ll hear from a college student with one year left to figure out financing, savings, and education before he buys. Someone else is thinking about long-distance investing and building his team, and finally, a listener with some money saved wants to take the next step toward building his real estate portfolio. The catch? He lives in one of the most expensive markets in the country. We’re breaking down all the possible solutions, including house hacking strategies, how to think about FHA and conventional financing, why cash reserves matter—even on a primary residence—and the remote management tools that make investing from anywhere possible! Looking to invest? Need answers? Ask your question here! In This Episode We Cover How to prepare to buy your first rental property (step by step) The software stack that makes remote property management (much) easier Creative ways to start building a rental portfolio in an expensive high-cost market How to invest in real estate from long distance (or even overseas) Why you should always have cash reserves (for each property!) And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-763. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, 28 Aug 2026 - 773 - Starter Homes Are Back. Here’s Exactly Where to Buy One
For years, rookies have heard the same bad news: starter homes are disappearing, and first-time buyers are getting older. But the newest data shows something very different, and we’re breaking down how these recent changes can help you buy your first or next rental property in 2026! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! Nationally, fewer than four in 10 non-homeowner households can afford a typical starter home. But in some states, things are getting a little easier. We’re breaking down where this market opening exists, where the headlines can be misleading, and how to turn a smaller new construction home or an overlooked resale home into a profitable investment property. We’re also sharing our own starter home stories, the difference between an affordable home and a “cheap” one, and a five-part screening checklist that will help you separate the two before making an offer. Whether you’re looking to buy a house or find a more affordable real estate market to invest in, stay tuned to learn exactly how to spot a smart next deal! In This Episode We Cover What a starter home really looks like in today's market Which real estate markets have the most affordable starter homes for sale The critical difference between an affordable and “cheap” rental property How to take advantage of builder incentives on new construction homes Why "mom and pop" resale homes are some of the best real estate deals in 2026 And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-762. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, 26 Aug 2026 - 772 - 20 Rental Units with a Full-Time Job & 7 Kids: She Did It in 5 Years!
What if the biggest obstacle to building wealth wasn't your income, your time, or even your circumstances, but simply believing it was possible for someone like you? Today’s guest made the decision that her past won’t be her children’s future. Real estate made that choice possible! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! Angela Wassom is proof that real estate really can be for anyone that puts their mind to it. While working full-time and raising seven kids, she's built a 20-unit portfolio across four states—starting with a rental she was genuinely afraid to take on. Angela breaks down how she built a team in markets she'd never set foot in, spotted a listing mistake that turned into a five-figure win, and used one financing strategy to fund nearly every deal since! She also shares the story of a lender who finally said yes after everyone else said no, and the tenant placement that brought her whole journey full circle. By the end of this episode, you'll see exactly how much is possible with the time and resources you already have! In This Episode We Cover How growing up in HUD housing shaped Angela’s mindset of becoming a landlord Building a remote investing team in markets you’ll never set foot in The MLS listing mistake that turned into a $10,000 repair windfall How a HELOC strategy has funded nearly every deal for Angela Why every lender said no to Angela’s newest short-term rental, until one didn't (and why it was so worth it!) And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-761. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 24 Aug 2026 - 771 - Can You Buy a Rental Property With Only $5,000? (Rookie Reply)
Feel like your situation doesn't fit the typical real estate investing playbook? Maybe you’re low on cash, your circumstances are unusual, or your timeline feels tighter than everyone else's. You're not alone, and today's episode proves it. But thankfully, we’ve got answers! Welcome to another Rookie Reply! We’re back with three questions from the BiggerPockets Forums, the first of which comes from a rookie who has very little money saved: Can you buy a rental property with just $5,000? We’ll share some creative ways to get started with low money down! Next, we’ll hear from someone who wants to invest in U.S. real estate from another country, pointing them to the tools and resources they’ll need to invest remotely. Finally, is it ever too late to start investing? Maybe you’re already eyeing retirement and wondering if rental properties can even fit into your overall strategy. Stick around until the end to find out! Looking to invest? Need answers? Ask your question here! In This Episode We Cover A decade-long plan for late starters looking to retire with real estate How to turn your primary residence into an entire real estate portfolio Using creative financing (like seller financing) without taking on extra risk Why you need cash reserves with every real estate deal How to build your own real estate team when investing remotely And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-760. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, 21 Aug 2026 - 770 - The Worst Rental Properties to Buy (We’d Never Invest in These)
The best real estate investing advice you'll ever hear is to just get started. But that advice comes with a catch: some rental properties can set you back many years. Today, we're sharing six red flags to watch out for, so you can know if you’re actually buying a good real estate deal—not a trap! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! Some deals can be incredibly convincing when you run the numbers. They might look profitable. They may have less competition, a lower purchase price, and a story that makes you believe you've found a diamond in the rough. But beneath the surface, these properties come with all kinds of issues and risks. We're breaking down six types of properties we'd steer clear of—from D-class properties that see very little appreciation to properties trapped inside HOA neighborhoods. If you're not careful, these properties can drain your time, eat through your cash reserves, and create unnecessary stress. We're telling you exactly what to watch for, and why, especially if you're a rookie investor! In This Episode We Cover The six “worst” types of rental properties we’d never invest in Why D-class neighborhoods may look tempting but give you little appreciation The HOA red flags that can quietly erode your rental cash flow Why buying a property with only one exit strategy is (very) risky Why investing in flood zones can cause your insurance costs to spiral The dangers of buying a rental property with negative cash flow And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-759. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, 19 Aug 2026 - 769 - He Turned One Real Estate Deal Into 13 in Just 6 Years
The first real estate deal is often the hardest. Like many rookie investors, today’s guest had always wanted to invest in real estate but didn’t have a ton of money to buy an investment property. But by getting creative, DIY’ing renovations, and forming strategic partnerships, he’s been able to not only get in the game but also snowball to 13 deals! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! Jake McVey spent years absorbing everything he could about real estate investing while working in an entirely different industry, but never quite pulling the trigger. At 23, that all changed. He used the “long-term BRRRR” method to turn his primary residence into his first rental property, and six years later, he and his dad have completed roughly a dozen house flips together! In this episode, Jake breaks down how a HELOC (home equity line of credit) got their real estate investing partnership off the ground, a renovation project so strange that it made them rethink the due diligence process, and the day a finished flip nearly fell apart during an open house. Whether you’re looking to string a few flips together or improve at renovations, Jake’s lessons on “conservative” deal analysis, creative finance, and managing contractors could help you on your very next deal! In This Episode We Cover How Jake and his dad have completed 13 real estate deals in just six years Making a $50,000 profit on one flip, even after his rehab budget doubled How to turn your primary residence into a long-term BRRRR Using a HELOC (home equity line of credit) to help fund your real estate deals Why you should always get an inspection before doing renovations The pros and cons of forming a real estate partnership with family Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-758. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 17 Aug 2026 - 768 - What to Know Before Structuring a Creative Finance Deal (Rookie Reply)
You're ready to start investing in real estate, but the next step can look very different depending on your situation. Every rookie’s story is unique, and today, we’re sharing our best advice for three different scenarios so you can get in the game—no matter your starting point! Welcome back to another Rookie Reply! Today's questions come straight from the BiggerPockets Forums, and they're all about slowing down just enough to make the first move the right move. One investor wants to know if house hacking is realistic in an expensive market. Another rookie wants to know the best way to invest a large sum of money so it can replace their W-2 income. Finally, a rookie has a seller financing deal in place but is still short and needs to provide proof of funds on a very tight deadline. We’ll not only show them how to structure their creative financing but also offer an alternative option they’re probably overlooking! Looking to invest? Need answers? Ask your question here! In This Episode We Cover How to structure a creative financing deal on a tight timeline Different investing strategies you can use to replace your W-2 income How to make house hacking work (even in an expensive market) The first step every rookie should take before building their buy box What “proof of funds” actually means and how to get it fast And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-757. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, 14 Aug 2026 - 767 - How to Buy a Rental Property with 5% Down or Less (5 Ways)
You’ve probably heard that you need a 20% down payment to buy a rental property. But for the average rookie, that’s just not a viable way to build a real estate portfolio. Thankfully, you don’t need 20%, 15%, or even 10% in many cases. Today, we’re sharing five ways rookies can work around this by putting just 5% down or less! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! Today we’re sharing five legitimate ways to take down your first or next rental with very little money of your own money. And no, these aren't gimmicks or loopholes. These are real rental property financing strategies that investors are using right now to buy real estate with significantly less money out of pocket. A couple of these strategies give you a place to live while tenants pay your mortgage. Other creative financing methods allow you to bring as little as zero to the table. There’s even a financing option most rookies have never heard of that actually lets you inherit someone else's low mortgage rate! Stay tuned as we walk through the pros, the cons, and exactly who each low-money-down strategy is for! In This Episode We Cover Five ways to fund your next real estate deal with 5% down (or less!) Why the "20% down" rule keeps rookies stuck on the sidelines How to “live for free” while your tenants pay your mortgage Strategic ways to structure a real estate investing partnership How to get sellers to say “yes” to financing your next deal A little-known way to take over someone else's low mortgage rate And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-756. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, 12 Aug 2026 - 766 - This Couple Replaced Their Salaries with 9 Rental Properties (In Just 4 Years)
Chris and Ksenia Kim had always wanted to own rental properties, but planning for a family and reaching a breaking point with work travel got them to finally take action. They started with a simple property that fell within their budget, but within a few months, it had turned into something much more: the catalyst for quitting their full-time jobs! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! Chris and Ksenia were new parents with demanding careers and a goal that felt many years away. But just four years later, they've both left their W-2 jobs and now run 17 short-term rentals together. How did they do it? In this episode, they share how buying one small property and “accidentally” pivoting to Airbnb spawned an entire real estate portfolio. You’ll hear how they quadrupled their cash flow on one property, used their home equity to fund additional properties, and pinned down the right real estate market and investing strategy for their long-term goals! If you're struggling to take that first step into real estate investing or are unsure how to scale, Chris and Ksenia’s story is filled with lessons (and answers) to help you through! In This Episode We Cover The “repeatable” rental strategy that helped this couple leave their W-2 jobs Going from zero to nine rental properties (and counting) in just four years The “accidental” pivot that helped Chris and Ksenia build an entire rental portfolio How to multiply your cash flow on the same rental property Funding your next rental property using your existing home equity And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-755. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 10 Aug 2026 - 765 - What Most Rookies Get Wrong When Picking a Rental Market (Rookie Reply)
Once you've decided you want to invest in real estate, the questions only get harder. How do you choose a real estate market? How much will repairs really cost? Should you turn the house you already own into a rental property? We’ve all been there! Stay tuned and we’ll steer you in the right direction! Welcome back to another Rookie Reply! Today's questions come straight from the BiggerPockets Forums. First, an investor has a down payment for a house hack but doesn’t know where to buy. This is a common rookie struggle, but we’ll show you how to find the right neighborhood! Next, we’ll share some of the best (and most accurate) ways to estimate rehab costs so your next renovation project stays on budget. Finally, maybe you’re wondering what to do with your primary residence. Should you leverage your home equity? Should you convert your home into a rental? What about selling it to put a larger amount down? We’ll help you make sense of all your options! Looking to invest? Need answers? Ask your question here! In This Episode We Cover How to handpick the right real estate market for you Why you should pin down your investing strategy before your market A simple three-step system for estimating repair costs on any property How to find great contractors in your area (before you need them!) What to know before converting your primary residence into a rental property How to use your home equity to fund your next real estate deal And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-754 Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, 07 Aug 2026 - 764 - "Sweet Spot" Rentals Every Rookie Should Buy
There's a rental property out there with your name on it—the “sweet spot” property every rookie investor wants. It's the kind of deal that can give you cash flow, appreciation, and tax benefits and become the launching pad for your entire portfolio. In this episode, we’ll show you what these properties are and where to find them! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! Today, we’re breaking down why buying a small multifamily property is often the easiest and lowest-risk way for a rookie to get started. We’ll walk you through the "stack” method that could help you scale from zero to nine units in just a few years, and we’ll even compare real numbers from a duplex and a single-family home on the same street. But that’s not all. Stick around until the end, as we reveal some of the markets where these deals are penciling out right now. If you’ve been looking for a beginner-friendly way to start building wealth with real estate, this episode is the playbook you need! In This Episode We Cover Why small multifamily is often the best way to get started in real estate A side-by-side comparison of small multifamily and single-family rentals (with numbers!) How to self-manage tenants (or guests) without it taking over your life The "stack” method that could help you scale from zero to nine units in three years How to research and pick a small multifamily market (as a complete beginner) And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-753. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, 05 Aug 2026 - 763 - Four Properties on a Teacher’s Salary by Buying Small, Affordable Homes
You know what's best for you—that's the advice today's guest offers, and it's the exact mindset that took him from house hacking on a teacher's salary in his mid-20s to quitting his job with a four-property portfolio at 30. If you're still stuck answering to someone else, today's guest will show you that you don't have to! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! Jake Handler took a bet on himself, from buying his first property on a teacher's salary to building a four-property portfolio and walking away from the career he once expected to keep for life. Jake breaks down how he house hacked his way into real estate after a lender told him no, how he negotiated a seller-financed deal that soon housed his in-laws down the road, and how to score someone else's 2.75% interest rate! If you have a stable career and every reason to stay comfortable, Jake's story is proof that the biggest risk might actually be staying where you are! In This Episode We Cover The advice Jake did NOT take from a lender that led to him buying four properties Jake’s strategy to landing his first deal on a teacher’s salary Why Jake left teaching to go all-in on a real estate-first career Negotiating a stellar seller-financed deal with one big caveat and bad tenants Managing inherited tenants as a new landlord and getting the bad ones to (peacefully) leave And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-752. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 03 Aug 2026 - 762 - 4 Rookie-Friendly Ways to Find Great Real Estate Deals in 2026 (Rookie Reply)
Struggling to find your first (or next) real estate deal? What if we told you there are simple, rookie-friendly strategies that even seasoned investors overlook? Today, we’ll share some of them with you so you can take down a great deal in 2026! Welcome back to another Rookie Reply! Today's questions come straight from the BiggerPockets Forums, and they're all about getting out of the research phase without rushing into a bad first deal. Is it worth paying for a course, or is self-study enough? Where do you find rental properties for sale when Zillow feels picked over? And how do you choose one investing strategy when there are SO many options? We're sharing how we learn best, Ashley's exact Zillow strategy for finding motivated sellers, and how to identify the best starting point for your rental portfolio. If you’re stuck at square one or trying to make the numbers work in 2026, we’ve got answers! Looking to invest? Need answers? Ask your question here! In This Episode We Cover Four ways to find great real estate deals in 2026 (even as a complete beginner) What most rookies miss when looking for on-market real estate deals Whether it’s worth paying for real estate coaching, courses, or masterminds Ashley's favorite Zillow strategy for finding motivated sellers How to choose the right investing strategy for your lifestyle and long-term goals And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-751. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, 31 Jul 2026 - 761 - How to Replace a $65,000 Salary with Rental Property Cash Flow (Step by Step)
If you’re trading your time for a paycheck and depending on someone else for financial "security," real estate investing could be your way out, and the path to true financial freedom might be closer than you think. In this episode, we're showing you exactly how to replace your W-2 salary with rental cash flow in a decade or less! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! Today, we’re giving you a proven formula for replacing your salary with rental properties. We’ll break down actual examples you could use to achieve this goal, whether you’re going the house hacking route or buying traditional investment properties. Along the way, we’ll show you how to pick the right market, choose the right investing strategy for your long-term goals, and maximize your per-property cash flow. By the end of this conversation, you’ll know how to run your own numbers, finance your first deal, and use tax strategies that stretch your cash flow even further. But most importantly, you’ll have a clear roadmap to walk away from your nine-to-five job! In This Episode We Cover How Ashley and Tony used real estate to step away from their own W-2 jobs How many rental properties it takes to replace the average salary How to pick a market for cash flow, appreciation, or a mix of both Choosing an investing strategy that aligns with your long-term goals The numbers on a house hack versus a traditional investment property Creative ways to maximize your cash flow per rental property And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-750. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, 29 Jul 2026 - 760 - One Rental Property Saved Me From My 100-Hour Workweeks
Picture this: working two jobs, sleeping during your breaks, and still showing up every single day because you've already decided what your life looks like on the other side! That's exactly how today's guest turned a two-year grind into his very first real estate deal—and if he could unlock his dream life with just one property, you can too! Welcome back to Real Estate Rookie! Today we're joined by Elijah Ray, who spent two years working 100 hours per week between two jobs, with one goal in mind: to live his dream life. Elijah sat down every week to look at his goals and work backward from them, until he had enough saved to buy his first property at just 26 years old! In this episode, Elijah shares how house hacking one property gave him the freedom to finally quit his job, how he funded his first rental unit, and how his first (and only) property unlocked the life he’s always dreamed of! If you're grinding through a job you're trying to escape and telling yourself it's not possible yet, this episode is proof it just takes one clear goal and one deal to change everything. Hit play to hear exactly how he did it! In This Episode We Cover How Elijah set his goals and bought his first home (even after a two-year struggle!) Managing evictions as a rookie landlord and the lessons that came with it Screening red flags Elijah wishes he'd caught on his first rental property Why less rentals meant more freedom (you don’t need a dozen units!) How to fund a renovation with credit cards, and whether it’s worth it The 1% down payment loan that speeds up your buying timeline And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-749. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 27 Jul 2026 - 759 - Cash Flow vs. Appreciation: What Should Beginners Focus on? (Rookie Reply)
You’ve read the books. You’ve listened to the podcasts. But you still don’t feel “ready” to invest in real estate. You’re not alone! This is one of the most common rookie struggles, and today, we’re showing you how to break free from analysis paralysis and finally get in the game! Welcome to another Rookie Reply! We’re back with three questions from the BiggerPockets Forums that, together, map the whole path from inaction to actually closing on your first deal. An experienced property manager wants to buy their own rental property but doesn’t know where to start, while another investor needs help analyzing a real estate market for their first house hack. Plus, we're settling one of the oldest debates in real estate: appreciation or cash flow? If you've been circling your first deal for months (or years) or looking to train up on analyzing rental properties, this episode is the push you've been waiting for. Hit play and let's get you off the sidelines! Looking to invest? Need answers? Ask your question here! In This Episode We Cover The two biggest hurdles you need to clear before buying a rental property How to know if you're actually ready to invest in real estate Whether you should prioritize cash flow or appreciation on your first deal Why real estate investing “edge” that property management experience gives you How to pick the right real estate market for you to invest in And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-748. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, 24 Jul 2026 - 758 - Making $3,000/Month Cash Flow (Per Property) with This Scalable Rental Strategy
One of the biggest mistakes new investors make is analyzing rental properties for the best-case scenario. Today’s guest does the opposite. He plans for the worst, and it’s the reason his deals consistently outperform others. In this episode, he’s sharing his secret for getting maximum cash flow with the least work possible! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! Luke Frizzell went from owning a primary residence that was draining his bank account, to converting his garage into an ADU and getting a 25% cash-on-cash return. But then, he did an “about face” and pivoted into residential assisted living, where he generates $3,000 in monthly cash flow, per property, without ever dealing with operations! Tune in to learn how Luke uses the military “SMEAC” framework to turn every deal into a planned mission, why the best next investment might be the property you already own, and how the lease-to-operator model makes assisted living one of the most “hands-free” cash flow strategies available today. If you've been chasing unit count and wondering why the effort never matches the returns, Luke's story is your permission to think differently. In This Episode We Cover How to make more cash flow with the residential assisted living strategy How to create extra income streams on the property you already own How Luke generated a 25% cash-on-cash return with his first ADU The SMEAC framework—what it is and how to apply it to real estate How to make your investment more “hands-free” with the lease-to-operator model Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-747. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, 22 Jul 2026 - 757 - She Bought the Property No One Wanted. It Had a Hidden Income Stream ($3K+/Month).
People think you need a dozen rental properties to achieve financial freedom. You don’t. Buy the right property in the right location, and it may only take one. Just ask Hana and Easton Jones, whose tiny back unit pays their entire mortgage and then some—allowing Hana to quit her W-2 job and live out her dream of being a stay-at-home mom! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! Hana and Easton were a couple of 25-year-olds with regular jobs. How could they possibly afford real estate around Los Angeles? Driven by the dream of homeownership, they sacrificed, they saved, and when the time came, they bought the house no one wanted. It wasn’t perfect. It needed work. But it also had its own hidden income stream—a small ADU (accessory dwelling unit) that now covers their $3,300 mortgage each month! In this episode, they break down their exact savings strategy, what it looks like to house hack an Airbnb, and how Hana was able to buy back time with her kids. Whether you live in an expensive city or want a way out from your nine-to-five, this story delivers the inspiration you need to take the next step in your real estate journey! In This Episode We Cover: The ADU (accessory dwelling unit) that makes $3,000-$5,000+ per month How to save aggressively for a down payment (even on a normal salary) Why Hana and Easton chose to put more money down on their house hack The “overlooked” property that allowed Hana to step away from her W-2 job How this frugal couple got creative on a $30,000 renovation budget And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-746. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 21 Jul 2026 - 756 - The Housing Market Is Shifting. Here’s What Rookies Should Do. (Rookie Reply)
The housing market looks very different than it did just a year or two ago. Home prices are softening, rates have eased slightly from the highs of 2023 and 2024, and sellers are more willing to negotiate than they've been in years. But rookie investors still want to know: Is 2026 actually the right time to buy? Welcome back to another Rookie Reply! Today we’re answering three pressing questions from the BiggerPockets Forums. You just got your first rental property under contract–what’s the next step? Is out-of-state investing the answer to areas that don’t cash flow, and if so, how do you manage a property from afar? But perhaps most importantly, does it even make sense to invest in real estate in 2026? Ashley and Tony break down the 2026 market, the contract-to-closing checklist every rookie investor needs, and the exact steps Tony took to build an investing team over 1,000 miles away! Looking to invest? Need answers? Ask your question here! In This Episode We Cover Whether it still makes sense invest in real estate in 2026 The one data point that tells you whether a real estate deal is worth it The full contract-to-closing checklist you need to get your keys on time What to do when you can’t find cash flow in your own market How to build your team (from scratch) when investing out-of-state And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-745. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, 17 Jul 2026 - 755 - Long-Term Rentals vs. Short-Term Rentals: Which Is Best for Beginners?
When buying your first rental property, everyone gives you the same advice: play it safe, get a long-term tenant, and collect the rent. But that same house, run as an Airbnb, can often make two or three times the cash flow. So which investing strategy should you actually use for your first deal? Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! Today, we’re settling this debate once and for all: short-term rentals or long-term rentals? We both grabbed a real, middle-of-the-road property from our own portfolios, put them head to head, and broke down the three things that actually matter for rookie investors: the money, the workload, and the risk. Ashley’s long-term rental might have the edge when it comes to ease of management, but Tony's short-term rental tax loophole gives certain investors a way to (legally) slash their tax bills by thousands. There is no one-size-fits-all answer here. But by the end of this episode, you'll know exactly which strategy fits your investing goals! In This Episode We Cover Real properties with real numbers from Tony and Ashley's portfolios Why measuring your cash-on-cash return is crucial when comparing these strategies How much time it actually takes to manage a long-term or short-term rental The biggest risks to consider before committing to either strategy How to potentially slash your tax bill by thousands with the short-term rental loophole And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-744. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, 15 Jul 2026 - 754 - She Built a 3-Property Portfolio in 5 Years While Working Her 9-5
Your first rental property rarely comes from sitting back and waiting. It usually comes when you put yourself out there, talk to others about what you're building, and stay in the game long enough for the right moment to show up. That’s exactly what today’s guest did, and it led to a wild deal that kickstarted her real estate portfolio! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! Stephanie Wagner spent nearly 20 years in a full-time job, putting her real estate dreams on hold through a marriage that wasn't working. Then, she used her divorce as the starting line. Six months later, she closed on her first real estate deal, a duplex she was able to house hack. Today, she owns five rental units and even has her real estate licence! Stephanie shares about the everyday moment that led to buying an off-market deal, the second deal that involved a tricky tenant situation, and the mindset shift that separates the investors who start from the ones who never do. If you've been holding out for the “perfect” moment to invest in real estate, Stephanie's story is proof that you just need to take action! In This Episode We Cover How Stephanie bought three rental properties while working nine-to-five The pivotal moment that led to Stephanie’s first property (an off-market duplex!) The benefits of using a real estate agent on an off-market deal Why the quality of your rentals matters more than your number of doors Raising rent on long-term tenants with fixed incomes And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-743. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 13 Jul 2026 - 753 - How to Find and Fund Your First Real Estate Deal (From Scratch) (Rookie Reply)
You've got very little savings, almost no credit history, and you want to buy a rental property. Most people would tell you to wait, but today, we’re giving you clear, actionable steps you can take toward getting that first property under contract! Welcome back to another Rookie Reply! Today, we’re answering three questions that cover the anatomy of a first deal: where the money comes from, where the deal comes from, and what it will really cost you. First, suppose you have no money or credit. Can you still invest in real estate? Another investor wants to know if wholesalers are worth using, and finally, we’ll hear from an actual wholesaler who’s looking for the best ways to estimate rehab costs so he can deliver deals investors actually want to buy! Tony explains why finding great real estate deals is the number one tool every rookie needs in their toolbelt, and Ashley shares a wholesale real estate strategy that nobody in the industry is using yet!! Looking to invest? Need answers? Ask your question here! In This Episode We Cover How to invest in real estate when you have low money and no credit How to save for your first down payment (fast!) The best investing strategy for buying rentals with low money down The wholesaling strategy explained (and how to buy a wholesale deal) How to estimate rehab costs as a complete beginner And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-742. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, 10 Jul 2026 - 752 - The Exact Investment “Stack” We’re Using to Retire Early (Not Just Rentals)
Don’t want to wait until 65 to retire? With a combination of rental properties and some of the other investments we’re covering on today’s show, you may not have to. Whether you’re starting from zero or diligently building your nest egg, use these eight steps to build a diversified portfolio and reach financial freedom much faster! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! Today Ashley and Tony are pulling back the curtain on their actual retirement plans—what they're doing, why they're doing it, and what they wish they'd known sooner. They share how they first got into real estate investing and how they’ve adjusted their portfolios over time. They also break down the investment “order of operations,” a sequence of financial moves that will help you build long-term wealth! Along the way, we’ll get into things like the 401(k) employer match, the triple-tax-advantaged HSA account, and the often-misunderstood 529 college savings plan. Whether you want to gradually step away from your W-2 job or simply have “enough” when you reach traditional retirement age, this episode gives you a clear roadmap for achieving your long-term financial goals! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-741. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, 08 Jul 2026 - 751 - She Bought Her First Rental Property with $0 Down (Her Exact Playbook)
What if the one thing stopping you from buying your first rental property isn’t money, or connections, but the belief that it’s just not possible for someone like you? Today’s guest is proof that with the right game plan, real estate investing offers a path that can set anyone free, including YOU, from the nine-to-five grind! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! Crystal Lloyd didn't have connections, a trust fund, or a head start. What she had was a two-hour daily commute and a willingness to do what most people won't. She volunteered at BPCON to get in, and walked out with the relationships that led to her first deal! And in this episode, she breaks down exactly how she bought it, including the grant “stack” that helped her pay zero out of pocket and the “layered” house hacking strategy most rookies don’t want to try. But that’s not all. Crystal also shares lessons from a bad contractor experience, and the tenant screening process every rookie needs. If you've ever felt like real estate was out of reach, Crystal's about to show you that anyone can start today! In This Episode We Cover The exact moment that sparked Crystal’s real estate investing journey The grant “stack” Crystal used to buy her first deal with $0 out of pocket How Crystal pays just $50 a month to live in the house she owns The tenant pre-screening questionnaire every new investor needs Lessons learned from a bad contractor experience (that you can avoid!) And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-740. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 06 Jul 2026 - 750 - How to 2X Your Cash Flow (or More) on the Property You Already Own (Rookie Reply)
What if you could take the rental property you already own and make 2-3 times more? Whether you’re in the red, barely breaking even, or wanting more from your rentals, we’re showing you multiple ways to boost your cash flow! Welcome back to another Rookie Reply! Today, we’re answering three questions from the BiggerPockets Forums that cover some of the most searched and most overlooked strategies in real estate investing right now. Is co-living actually realistic, and how do you pivot to the model without losing your mind? Don’t think you have enough for a down payment? The good news is that there are several loans and strategies that require much less than you think. Stick around until the end because we’ve got a couple of strategies most rookies never consider that could make you $10,000 from just one house! Whether you're trying to squeeze more cash flow from a property you already own, get into your first deal with limited savings, or find an investing strategy that most beginners overlook, this episode has something for every stage of the journey! Looking to invest? Need answers? Ask your question here! In This Episode We Cover Four ways to double your rental income (or more) on the property you already own How to pivot from a single-tenant property to a room-by-the-room model How to buy your first rental property without a big bank account The loan that could help you get into real estate with as little as $0 down How the co-living strategy works and why demand is growing Why assisted living and sober living are some of the most overlooked, win-win strategies And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-739. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, 03 Jul 2026 - 749 - 3 Ways to Fund Your First Real Estate Deal Without 20% Down
What’s stopping you from buying your very first rental property? For most rookies, it’s rarely ever the market, the interest rates, or even the competition–it's a number in their head. Today, we’re breaking down that barrier with real rookie use cases that will inspire you to take that next step in your real estate investing journey! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! In this episode, we’re sharing three ways to fund real estate deals that have actually worked for past Rookie guests. None of these creative financing options require 20% down, none of them require a traditional bank, and one of them doesn't involve a lender at all! We dive into how hard money loans work and when they make sense, how to find a seller who'll say yes to seller financing, and the levers you can pull to structure your deal. Ashley also shares her hard money horror story so you don't have to learn those lessons the expensive way! If you've been sitting on the sidelines because you don't think you have enough money to invest, this conversation will give you the knowledge and confidence to get started today! In This Episode We Cover Hard money—what it is, how lenders make money, and when it actually makes sense for a rookie Ashley's hard money horror story and the exact questions you need to ask How to structure a seller financing deal as a complete beginner Real seller financing case studies (from past Rookie guests!) The right (and wrong) reasons to bring in an equity partner on your real estate deal And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-738. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, 01 Jul 2026 - 748 - He Started Investing in His 40s, Now He’s on Track to Retire with Rentals
Not everyone gets into real estate investing when conditions are perfect. Some, like our next guest, get in because they have no other choice. The path Brent Beard was on just wasn’t cutting it anymore–especially when people were depending on him. If your back’s against the wall and you want to build a better life for your family, rental properties could be the answer! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! Brent is a real estate agent in training and investor in the Kansas City area who bought his first duplex in 2025. He did it while working a full-time W-2 job, serving in the National Guard, studying for his real estate licence, and raising his granddaughter. Owning rental properties wasn’t always on Brent’s radar, but last July, he picked up a book that changed his whole philosophy. Despite starting in his 40s, Brent has closed on his first deal and is aiming to retire in 10 years! Brent isn't here with a polished success story, but a real one. He dives into the property tax mistake nobody warned him about that nearly doubled his bill overnight, the buy box he had to abandon to find a deal that actually cash flowed, and the one thing he wishes someone had told him before he closed! If you have a full schedule, real responsibilities, and every reason to keep putting real estate on the back burner, Brent's story is proof that the biggest mistake is simply not starting! In This Episode We Cover What finally pushed Brent to take action on his first real estate deal Juggling a W-2 job, military service, and real estate without dropping the ball The rookie-friendly tools and processes Brent used to analyze his first duplex The property tax mistake that nearly doubled Brent’s bill (and what to check before you close!) The huge investing advantages you get by becoming a real estate agent And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-737. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 29 Jun 2026 - 747 - My Property Is Losing Money: Should I Sell or Pivot? (Rookie Reply)
The property you spent months working on is about to lose you money. What should you do? Sell? Pivot? Invest for long enough and you’re bound to run into this scenario at some point. But not to worry—today, we’re showing you exactly what to do when things go south! Welcome to another Rookie Reply! We’re back with three more questions from the BiggerPockets Forums. One investor is about to lose money flipping a house and needs a way out or a reason to stay in. Another is about to form a real estate investing partnership but is missing one critical element that could change the entire deal. And if you’re in the exciting final stages of closing on a rental property, or you're already sitting with the keys, wondering what on earth to do now that you're a landlord, we’ve got the answers! Ashley and Tony have been in all three of these situations, and Tony’s in one of them right now! Looking to invest? Need answers? Ask your question here! In This Episode We Cover When to sell a struggling flip (at a loss) or convert it to a rental property The one thing almost nobody considers before creating a real estate partnership Why a 50/50 equity partnership is actually fairer than it feels when one partner brings all the money The biggest differences between a joint venture and an LLC (limited liability company) Why forming an LLC on your first partnership deal might be a mistake What to tackle in your first 30 days after closing (and what can wait!) And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-736. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, 26 Jun 2026 - 746 - Making $29,000/Month from One “Boring” Property (1,000 Miles Away)
What if the best real estate investment isn’t the one with tenants, toilets, or employees, but the low-maintenance property everyone else is ignoring? Today’s guest is making thousands each month from one of these properties, and there are many more just like it. She’ll show you exactly how to find them! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! Today we're sitting down with Bree Hartman, who went from one “accidental” rental property to building a $6 million self-storage portfolio–all while pregnant, working her W-2 job as a personal trainer, and cold calling self-storage owners on her lunch breaks. She did all of this as a complete newbie to commercial real estate from the other side of the country! Bree breaks down how she finds off-market self-storage facilities using a single tool, the exact cold calling script she uses to get baby boomer owners talking, and how she structured her very first seller financing deal. She even shares the five-point blueprint that shows YOU exactly where to invest. If you've been sleeping on self-storage, our conversation with Bree will wake you up to one of the most underrated assets right now! Looking to invest? Need answers? Ask your question here! In This Episode We Cover How Bree finds off-market self-storage deals hiding in plain sight The exact cold calling script that gets bored retirees to sell (and a live example!) Buying a $3.1 million facility with zero commercial experience The seller financing trick that got an owner to say yes–it's not what you'd expect The five-point blueprint for finding markets where you'll never compete with the big players And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-735. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, 24 Jun 2026 - 745 - How to House Hack Your Way Out of $200K in Student Loan Debt!
At 31, James sat down at a kitchen table with his wife Aida, ran the numbers on the next 30 years, and didn't like what he saw—$200,000 in student loans and a retirement plan neither of them believed in. So they stopped waiting for a change, and built something instead. Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! Our guest, James Doren, and wife, Aida, didn't have a trust fund or an obvious path forward. They had a spreadsheet, a private money lender, and an empty space above their garage. This accessory dwelling unit (ADU) solution added 50% value on their equity, wiped out their student loans, and set them on a path that most investors never consider: intentionally shrinking their portfolio from 10 doors to 4. But the deal that surprised them most didn't come from an agent or Zillow. It came from a tenant who knocked on their door with a problem the bank couldn't solve! James breaks down the house hack that started it all, how he convinced a private money lender to fund the build, and the rent-to-own agreement he structured for his tenant that gave both sides exactly what they needed. If you've ever sat at your own kitchen table and wondered if there's a better way…James's story is your proof that there is! In This Episode We Cover How James and Aida used weekly money dates to align on their financial goals and take their first step into real estate The ADU build that created $160K in equity How to approach a private money lender and handle the tough questions Why James intentionally sold 6 properties and why owning fewer doors actually made him more money! The rent-to-own agreement a tenant brought to them: how it works, what an option fee is, and why it removed all their risk And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-734. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 22 Jun 2026 - 744 - The Real Estate LLC Mistake That Could Cost You Thousands (Rookie Reply)
Do you need a real estate LLC, and should you form one before or after buying a rental property? This is a very common rookie question, and liability protection is one of the most misunderstood topics in real estate investing. But not to worry—today we’re setting the record straight and showing you how to build bulletproof protection for you and your assets! Welcome back to another Rookie Reply! Does a rental property have to make positive cash flow for it to be considered a “good” deal? If you’re using the house hacking strategy, maybe not! In today’s episode, we’ll share exactly why this is often the exception to the rule. Finally, what’s the best way to fund rental renovations? In most cases, lenders will help you finance the purchase of a rental property, but you’ll have to scrounge up the money for your renovations—except if you use an FHA 203(k) loan. How do these loans work, and what are the pros and cons? Stick around to find out! Looking to invest? Need answers? Ask your question here! In This Episode We Cover Whether a rental property needs to cash flow if you’re house hacking LLCs, umbrella policies, and other types of liability protection explained Whether you need to form an LLC before buying a rental property What to know before transferring ownership from your personal name to an LLC How to fund your purchase and renovations with a 203(k) loan And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-733. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, 19 Jun 2026 - 743 - The Easiest Ways to Find Off-Market Properties in 2026 (Our Exact Playbook)
Many rookies assume the best real estate deals are already listed on the market, but what if that’s not the case? The truth is, it’s getting harder and harder to find rental properties on the MLS that actually pencil out. Thankfully, there are dozens of ways to find profitable off-market properties that can make you more money, and today, we’re sharing our exact playbook! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! The term “off market” is thrown around as an easier way to buy real estate, but most rookies don’t actually know where to start. In this episode, we’re breaking down how we found, funded, and closed our very first off-market deals—as complete beginners. You’ll hear about Ashley’s 12-unit acquisition that doubled in value and Tony’s very first wholesale real estate deal that made him $30,000! But that’s not all. Beyond driving for dollars and direct mail, we’re sharing our favorite strategies to use in 2026. With all kinds of tips for sourcing deals, structuring offers, and negotiating with sellers, there’s no reason why you can’t go out and buy your first off-market property this year! In This Episode We Cover How Ashley bought six duplexes (12 units), off-market, from ONE seller How Tony pocketed $30,000 on his very first wholesale deal The one major advantage rookies have when buying off-market properties How to use the driving for dollars strategy to uncover “hidden” real estate deals Why you should always make multiple offers on an investment property The main difference between assumable mortgages and subject-to deals And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-732. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, 17 Jun 2026 - 742 - She Lost $85,000, Then Made It All Back with a Single Rental Property
Real estate bookkeeping might not be the most thrilling part of owning a rental property, but it’s often the difference between bleeding money each month and earning cash flow you can count on. Today’s guest will show you exactly how to get your books in check so you can make your properties even more profitable! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! Grace Wills is a CPA, a homeschooling mom, and a self-described “risk-averse” investor. So, when her husband suggested they buy an investment property back in 2018, she was skeptical. However, it didn’t take long for that first property to start generating plenty of cash flow, at which point Grace saw that real estate investing was far less “risky” than many other investments. Fast forward to today, and Grace owns a real estate portfolio that’s creating long-term wealth for her family, despite losing money on three different house flips. In this episode, she shares the importance of having a mentor to help you navigate the ebbs and flows of real estate, why bookkeeping is one of the most underrated skills, and some of her favorite tools and software for new investors! In This Episode We Cover Why Grace never gave up on real estate (even after three “failed” house flips) The four people every real estate investor needs in their corner The two-part software “stack” every new investor should have The biggest challenges when going into real estate investing with family What to know before putting your rental property in an S corporation Why you should always speak to multiple lenders before getting financing And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-731. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 15 Jun 2026 - 741 - The Best Property Management Software for Small Landlords (Rookie Reply)
Thinking about self-managing your rental property? Then, you’ll need property management software to help with things like processing applications, collecting rent, and managing maintenance requests. In this episode, we’re sharing our favorite tools so you can pick the right one for your portfolio! Welcome back to another Rookie Reply! There are dozens of property management tools floating around, but which ones are best for new landlords? Ashley breaks down the different categories of landlord software and shares four steps to finding the right option for you. Next, are regulations slowly killing the short-term rental industry? The short answer is no. However, there are two things every investor should do before committing to a short-term rental market, and Tony’s going to tell you what they are! Finally, we’ll get into wholesaling, a strategy that could help kickstart your real estate investing journey without having thousands of dollars to deploy. We’ll show you how the entire wholesaling process works and three easy ways to find deals today! Looking to invest? Need answers? Ask your question here! In This Episode We Cover The best property management tools for beginner landlords Four steps to finding the right property management software for you What heightened regulations mean for the future of short-term rentals Whether short-term rentals are still a viable investing strategy in 2026 Three ways to start wholesaling today (with low money!) And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-730. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, 12 Jun 2026 - 740 - Big Changes I’m Making to My Portfolio This Year (That Will Make Me Richer)
Many rookies think things become easy once you’ve built a large real estate portfolio, but that’s far from true. Even with 26 short-term rentals, a 13-unit hotel, and a few house flips under his belt, Tony deals with many of the typical rookie challenges. In today’s episode, he’s sharing the lessons he’s learned and the rental pivots he’s making so YOU can grow and scale like him! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! Last time we checked in with Tony about his real estate business, he was in the process of stabilizing his new hotel. Now, with an entire calendar year in the books, we’ll revisit the property and how it’s performing today. We’ll also hear about Tony’s next hotel investment and how he’s approaching it differently now that he has proof of concept. Tony also outlines the best course of action for new investors who want to break into the short-term rental space in 2026. Finally, what does a day in the life of a full-time real estate investor look like? Tony gives you an inside look at the flexibility he enjoys by owning rental properties that you don’t get with a nine-to-five job! In This Episode We Cover Rental pivots Tony’s making in 2026 for even bigger returns Updates on Tony’s rental portfolio and his 13-unit hotel investment The biggest pain points when investing in a smaller real estate market What Tony’s average week looks like as a full-time real estate rental investor First steps for rookies looking to invest in short-term rentals in 2026 How to build a real estate business that gives you more freedom and flexibility And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-729. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, 10 Jun 2026 - 739 - She Started Investing in College and Already Has 5 Rental Units (And Counting)
The real estate investing moves you make today could change your life. Those in their 40s, 50s, and 60s often look back and regret not starting sooner. Today’s guest isn’t letting that happen, and in this episode, she’ll show YOU how to take advantage when that next rental property comes your way! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! When Megan Chou’s father challenged her to read the personal finance classic, Rich Dad Poor Dad, little did she know it would completely alter her life’s trajectory. The book’s lessons on building wealth inspired her to stash her money away in a brokerage account and, at just 20 years old, buy her very own rental property—a townhome she house hacked with her best friend. Then, only two years later, right as she was graduating from college, she took down a fourplex—renovating each unit while living in it, one by one. Stay tuned as Megan shares how she leveraged her home equity to buy it, what went wrong after buying the property, and how she stayed resilient when her property started fighting back! In This Episode We Cover How Megan bought her first two rental properties (while still in college!) How to fund your next investment property using your existing home equity What Zillow, Redfin, and the MLS can’t tell you about properties or neighborhoods Bouncing back from ice, raccoons, and plumbing failure on the same property Two crucial things to do when experiencing a setback with your property And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-728. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 08 Jun 2026 - 738 - My Rental Property Has Zero Appreciation: Should I Hold or Sell? (Rookie Reply)
Do you have home equity sitting in your primary residence? You could use it to buy your first or next rental property! There are several ways to do this, and in today’s episode, we’re sharing them so you can make your money work harder! Welcome back to another Rookie Reply! Whether it’s a home equity line of credit (HELOC) or a cash-out refinance, there are multiple ways to access the equity in your home. But which option is best? Stay tuned and we’ll help you determine the right move for your situation. Next, if you’re preparing to open an Airbnb, the days leading up to launch can be nerve-wracking. Thankfully, our resident short-term rental expert, Tony, has some game-changing tips that will help you create the best possible guest experience and bring in plenty of five-star reviews! Finally, what do you do if your investment property hasn’t appreciated at all over the last one, two, or even five years? Should you hold or cut it loose? The answer is more nuanced than you might think, but we’ll help you reach the right decision for your real estate investing goals! Looking to invest? Need answers? Ask your question here! In This Episode We Cover How to use your primary residence to buy your first rental property Three ways to access your home equity (and fund your next property) How to create a five-star Airbnb experience (and get more reviews!) What every rookie should know before launching a short-term rental When to sell a rental property that has low or negative cash flow Whether a rental property with low (or no) appreciation is a bad investment And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-727. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, 05 Jun 2026 - 737 - The Ultimate Guide to Buying Off-Market Properties (As a Complete Beginner)
Struggling to find great real estate deals on the MLS? What if we told you some of the best rental properties are often found elsewhere? If you want better cash flow and bigger margins, you may need to start looking for off-market properties. Thankfully, today’s guest is an expert on these types of deals and will show YOU exactly how to find them! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! When Janelle Carlson first started investing in real estate several years ago, she would find properties like most new investors do—on the MLS. But around 2021, something changed. With record-low mortgage rates and properties often selling for above asking price, the deals started drying up. So, Janelle started looking off-market instead and had enormous success. Today, she does over 30 off-market deals per year! With a little time, effort, and Janelle’s blueprint, you could buy your first or next off-market property this year, too. In this episode, she shows you where to look for leads, the different types of strategies to use, and the secrets to negotiating a home-run deal! In This Episode We Cover How to find and buy off-market properties as a complete beginner The biggest differences between off-market and on-market deals Finding deals within your buy box using the pay per lead (PPL) strategy Everything you need to launch your own real estate direct mail campaign How Janelle was ghosted by her partner on her very first deal (and lost $35,000) And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-726. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, 03 Jun 2026 - 736 - He Was Making Just $12/Hour: Now He Owns 7 Rental Properties (10 Units)
You don’t need a big market, huge salary, or even a college degree to invest in real estate. Today’s guest had a very simple goal when he started: replace his $12/hour construction job. He’s already achieved that, and today, he owns seven rental properties…and counting! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! Nathan Shelby has dabbled in several investing strategies, from mobile home lots to fixer uppers. But he’s recently landed on a strategy that allows him to use the BRRRR method (buy, rehab, rent, refinance, repeat) on new construction homes—just without the renovations. Despite investing in a relatively small town, one of these properties appraises for roughly twice the cost to build it, allowing Nathan to pull 100% of his cash out for the next one! Nathan has found his groove in the last couple of years, but it wasn’t always smooth sailing. In this episode, he shares some of the biggest mistakes he made early on—pitfalls you can easily avoid. Stay tuned to learn about the systems and tools you should implement on day one, how to dial in your tenant screening process, and why new construction is often easier than renovating! In This Episode We Cover How Nathan scaled to 10 rental units without a big salary or college degree How to find highly profitable real estate deals outside of the MLS Why new construction is often easier than rental renovations Must-have systems and tools to build and scale your real estate portfolio Three of the biggest mistakes new investors make (and how to avoid them) And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-725. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 01 Jun 2026 - 735 - How to Pay (Much) Less in Taxes as a Real Estate Investor (Rookie Reply)
Rental properties can give you cash flow, appreciation, and loan paydown from tenants. But tax benefits are often the unsung hero of real estate investing. Today, we’re sharing some of the best real estate tax strategies so you can keep more of your hard-earned money from Uncle Sam! Welcome back to another Rookie Reply! Should you do a cost segregation study? Many investors use this tax strategy to accelerate depreciation and create massive paper losses, but what’s the catch? Stay tuned as we break down the potential pitfalls and everything you need to know before getting started. What about a 1031 exchange? This strategy allows you to defer capital gains taxes when selling a rental property, but what if you’re flipping houses? Every landlord wants a great tenant in their rental property, but how do you find them? From credit scores and income requirements to employment verification and background checks, we show you how to dial in your tenant screening criteria so that you make the best possible decision! Looking to invest? Need answers? Ask your question here! In This Episode We Cover Real estate tax strategies that will help you keep more money from the IRS How to accelerate rental property depreciation with a cost segregation study Offsetting your active income with the short-term rental tax “loophole” The two ways to qualify for Real Estate Professional Status (REPS) How to select the best tenant for your rental property (fairly and legally) Whether you can do a 1031 exchange when flipping a house And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-724. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, 29 May 2026 - 734 - How to Get a 3% Mortgage Rate on Your Rental Property (Still Works in 2026)
Did you know that you could get a 3% mortgage rate on your next rental property? With rates hovering around 6%-7%, this would shave hundreds of dollars off your monthly mortgage payment and save you a few hundred thousand dollars in total interest. That alone could flip a deal with negative cash flow into a profitable one. But rates don’t appear to be coming down any time soon. So, how is this possible? Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! Today, we’re talking about assumable mortgages—existing loans that have rates as low as 3%. These aren’t “goldilocks” properties that only the luckiest investors find. There are millions of them all across the U.S., and we’ll show you exactly how to find them. Stay tuned to learn everything you need to know about these loans, like how to cover the “equity gap” that many of these properties have, a six-step process for taking over an existing mortgage, and the biggest pitfalls to avoid along the way. If you’re struggling to find properties that cash flow, this investing strategy could be the answer you’ve been looking for! In This Episode We Cover Everything you need to know about assumable mortgages before you buy The main difference between assumable and subject-to deals The three main types of government-backed, assumable loans Six steps to find, buy, and close on an assumable mortgage The “equity gap” explained, and how to find “sweet spot” properties The best places to find assumable properties for sale online And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-723. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, 27 May 2026 - 733 - Making Over $10,000/Month with Just One Rental Property
Fear your market is too competitive for you to stand out? Today’s guest bought her first rental property right before developers started buying up the land around her. Thankfully, she didn’t back down. Since then, her property has already climbed to the top 1% of Airbnb listings and now brings in over $10,000 a month! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! Erin Robinson had always wanted to invest in real estate, but she didn’t just want another boring rental property. She wanted to build her own “luxury” stay—a private retreat that could double as her own vacation rental. And that’s exactly what she did, strategically investing in high-value amenities and highlighting her property’s best features. Despite only launching recently, Erin’s property already makes five figures per month and is booked nearly three months out! From unique design features that will help your property pop to booking tips that will maximize your revenue, Erin has all the secrets to designing a successful short-term rental. If you want to launch a high-performing Airbnb property from scratch, this episode is for you! In This Episode We Cover How Erin turned her first rental into a profitable Airbnb (making $10,000/month) The best “luxury” items to prioritize when designing your short-term rental Tips and tricks to get your rental property to the top 1% of Airbnb listings How to create the ideal guest experience (and get more five-star ratings) The two biggest mistakes Erin made when renovating her property And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-722. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 25 May 2026 - 732 - Paying Off a Rental Property vs. Buying More: Which One Wins? (Rookie Reply)
Should you pay off your mortgage early or buy more rental properties? The first option gives you peace of mind, while the other allows you to build wealth much faster. In this episode, we’re fleshing out both strategies so you can make the right choice! Welcome back to another Rookie Reply! What’s better—a debt-free property or a larger real estate portfolio? The answer depends entirely on the investor, but we’ll help you determine the best path for you. As a new landlord, it’s only a matter of time before you’ll need to make repairs to your property. But what if that “repair” is something major, like replacing an HVAC unit? We’ll show you how to prepare for the worst before you buy! Finally, how do you know if you’re analyzing a rental property correctly? It might look like a good deal on the surface, but what if you’re overlooking some major red flags? Follow our tips, and you might just dodge a mistake you could regret later! Looking to invest? Need answers? Ask your question here! In This Episode We Cover Paying off your mortgage early versus buying more rental properties Using your home equity to scale your rental portfolio faster How to budget for major rental property repairs and maintenance How much every rookie investor should have in reserves (per property) Common red flags you can’t afford to miss when analyzing real estate deals And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-721. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, 22 May 2026 - 731 - He Had No Money for His First Deal: 5 Years Later, He Owns 17 Properties
Rookies think they need millions to invest in commercial real estate, but that’s only a myth, and today’s guest is about to show you why. In this episode, we’re talking all about an asset that might sound big and scary but is actually much easier to buy than you probably think: self storage! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! Cameron Barsanti has owned single-family homes, multifamily properties, and other assets. But his favorite? Self storage. These large metal boxes have no toilets, no tenants living on the property, and less maintenance than residential real estate. Since zeroing in on self storage just five years ago, Cameron has scaled to a $70+ million portfolio spanning nine states! Today, he’s giving you a complete crash course on the asset—how it works, how it makes money, and everything you need to know to get started. We get into analyzing markets, the ideal tech “stack” for new investors, and much more. So, if you’ve ever wanted to know how to get into self storage, without a ton of money, this episode is for you! In This Episode We Cover How to start investing in self storage facilities in 2026 The number one skill every self storage investor must learn Creative ways to find mom-and-pop self storage facilities for sale The easiest way to find and fund your first self storage deal in 2026 The most important factor when analyzing a self storage market And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-720. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, 20 May 2026 - 730 - From No Time or Money to Doing 6-Figure Real Estate Deals (With 8 Kids!)
Don’t have enough time or money to invest in real estate? These are, by far, the two most common roadblocks for new investors. Today’s guest didn’t let them stop her. Instead, she used creative means to find and fund real estate deals without much free time or a big bank account. If you follow her blueprint, you’ll be able to do the same! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! Beth Decler is a homeschooling mother of eight—yes, eight—children, but somehow, some way, she’s also making time for real estate investing. In fact, she and her husband have done five real estate deals and made six-figure profits with the live-in flip strategy, all while running their own on-farm business. In this episode, Beth shows you how to find off-market properties (without cold calling), bypass the banks with seller financing, and save thousands in taxes. Now that Beth has used the power of real estate to scale up to her “forever” home, she’s eyeing another investing strategy—one that’s less hands-on but will allow her to keep growing her net worth! In This Episode We Cover How this investing mom is doing six-figure flips (while raising eight kids!) Selling investment properties for tax-free gains using the live-in flip strategy How to negotiate seller financing for your next real estate deal Creative ways to find off-market properties for sale (without cold calling) How to fund real estate deals without traditional bank financing And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-719. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 18 May 2026 - 729 - Should I Keep or Sell My Rental Property? (Huge Equity Gains) (Rookie Reply)
Have some home equity built up in one or more of your rental properties? What should you do? Get a line of credit? Sell? You have more options than you think, and in this episode, we’ll help you crunch the numbers and weigh your options so you make the best possible decision! Welcome to another Rookie Reply! There’s a property you want to buy. It’s affordable, it’s in a decent market, and it cash flows. Should you pull the trigger? Not so fast! Sometimes the property that looks like a steal is actually a trap—one that many new investors fall for, including Ashley when she was starting out. Stay tuned to find out why, and then stick to her advice! Next, maybe you have an investment property that has appreciated by six figures since buying it a few years ago. Rather than letting the equity sit there, we’ll show you several ways to put it to good use so you can scale your real estate portfolio further. Finally, do you need a landlord-tenant lease agreement when house hacking? Without a doubt, yes. We’ll show you where to find one (or create your own) so you’re fully protected! Looking to invest? Need answers? Ask your question here! In This Episode We Cover The best ways to tap into your investment property’s home equity When to sell a rental property and realize the home equity gains The difference between return on investment (ROI) and return on equity (ROE) Deferring capital gains taxes on a property sale through a 1031 exchange Whether you should ever buy the “cheap,” cash-flowing rental property Whether you need a landlord-tenant lease agreement when house hacking And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-718. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, 15 May 2026 - 728 - The 2-Year Blueprint for Buying Your First Rental Property (Starting from Zero)
You want to buy a rental property, but there’s one problem: you don’t have the money! The good news? You’re not as far away as you probably think. If you want to save as much money as possible for a down payment, today’s guest will show you how. In just two years, she went from zero to building a strong financial foundation and taking down her first property! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! When Mimi Fall was laid off from her W-2 job, it was the last straw. In that moment, she decided to take responsibility for her financial future, and that meant getting a better job, cracking down on spending, and throwing every extra dollar toward savings. All of Mimi’s hard work paid off, as within two years, she was able to buy her very first rental property. Today, she rents out rooms to tenants, and the total rental income covers her entire mortgage payment and then some. In this episode, she shares her step-by-step roadmap for getting your finances in check, her favorite personal finance tips and tools, and property-saving advice for all new landlords! In This Episode We Cover How to save money (faster) and buy your first or next rental property Mimi’s journey from being laid off to chasing financial freedom Covering your mortgage (and then some) with the rent-by-the-room strategy How to lay a strong personal finance foundation (starting from scratch) How to pin down your long-term real estate investing goals And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-717. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, 13 May 2026 - 727 - Making $10,000/Month Cash Flow from 5 Rental Properties in Just 5 Years
Had enough of the nine-to-five grind? Then it’s time to start engineering your exit with assets that will give you more time, flexibility, and financial freedom: rental properties. Today’s guest will show you how to replace your salary with cash flow and finally start living on your terms! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! Jamie Trickett had the cozy, corner-office job most people dream of, but it wasn’t enough. With a three-hour daily commute on top of a 40+ hour workweek, she had very little time left for her boys. Something had to give. So, Jamie took a leap of faith and bought her first rental property. What was initially intended as a retirement asset quickly evolved into another steady income stream. Just two years later, she quit her W-2 job to go all-in on real estate investing and has stacked five rental properties in five years. Jamie hasn’t just scaled to $10,000 in monthly cash flow. She’s also saved six figures in taxes through cost segregation studies and other overlooked tax deductions. You don’t need dozens of rentals to do what Jamie’s doing. Stay tuned to learn how YOU can copy her success with a “small and mighty” portfolio! In This Episode We Cover How Jamie quit her job with a “small and mighty” real estate portfolio Making $10,000 in monthly cash flow with just five rental properties Replacing your W2 income with rental property cash flow How to save thousands in taxes with a cost segregation study Building a real estate business that gives you control of your time How to stop “shiny object syndrome” from derailing your investing goals And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-716. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 11 May 2026 - 726 - Should You Ever Buy a Rental Property with Negative Cash Flow? (Rookie Reply)
Everyone keeps saying we’re in a “buyer’s market,” but if that’s true, where are all the real estate deals? It’s easy to get discouraged after hearing “no” after “no,” but in today’s episode, we’re sharing the secrets to landing off-market properties and overlooked rentals on the MLS! Welcome to another Rookie Reply! Struggling to find real estate deals at the right price? Ashley and Tony will show you how to modify your approach and get your next rental property under contract much faster. Next, should you self-manage or hire a property manager? Each strategy has its pros and cons, but the right one for you depends on a few factors that we’ll get into! Finally, is it ever a good idea to buy a rental property that will give you negative cash flow? Most people don’t get into real estate investing to lose money each month, but we’ll show you a scenario in which taking a modest loss today could pay off long-term! Looking to invest? Need answers? Ask your question here! In This Episode We Cover The secret to finding discounted real estate deals (in any market) The number one mistake new investors make when looking for off-market properties Whether you should self-manage your rental property or hire a property manager The best tools, software, systems, and processes for self-managing landlords Whether you should ever buy a rental property with negative cash flow And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-715. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, 08 May 2026 - 725 - Should You Ever Buy a Rental Property with Negative Cash Flow? (Rookie Reply)
Tired of your rental properties making just $50 or $100 a month? What if you could squeeze several thousand dollars out of the same properties instead? That’s exactly what today’s guest is doing—taking ordinary properties that you’d find on the MLS and turning them into money-making assets with one powerful investing strategy: residential assisted living. And in today’s episode, he’ll show YOU how to do the same! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! Hans Stone has built a real estate business that brings in not $2,000, or $5,000, or even $10,000, but upward of $40,000 per month, per property. How? There’s an entire generation that’s starting to age out and needs private care, and Hans is providing it. And there’s so much demand for these properties that, once he stabilizes the property, he rarely deals with vacancies or evictions! If you’re done with the tight margins and want a strategy that will not only generate more cash flow but also help you make a difference, Hans is giving you the entire blueprint to get started! In This Episode We Cover Making $40,000 per month (per property) with residential assisted living How to find investment properties you can turn into assisted living houses The biggest risks and challenges to be aware of with assisted living investing How to protect your real estate business from a liability standpoint Why assisted living is much more about hospitality than healthcare And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-714. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, 06 May 2026 - 724 - From Zero to 11 Real Estate Deals in 6 Years by Buying Properties 99% Ignore
You don’t need a huge savings account or even a ton of life experience to start investing in real estate. At just 18 years old, today’s guest used her entire life savings to buy her first real estate deal. It was just an empty parcel of land, but it ended up becoming a $120K home-run deal that catapulted her toward 10 more deals over the next six years! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! Tiffany Da Silva had just graduated from high school when she decided to go (literally) all-in on real estate investing. Despite having no credit and just $12,000 to her name, she took the plunge, using every last dollar to bid on an empty parcel of land at a tax deed sale. What was going to be a simple land flip turned into a rental property that has made her over $120,000! With proof of concept, Tiffany went back to the well, buying up several more real estate owned (REO) properties at auctions and even dabbling in new construction. Whether you feel you’re too young to invest, too old to start, or somewhere in the middle, anyone can follow Tiffany’s blueprint and copy her success! In This Episode We Cover How Tiffany bought her first real estate deal at just 18 years old Tiffany’s journey from zero to 11 real estate deals in six years How to buy discounted properties at tax deed sales and auctions Using hard money to fund your off-market real estate deals Real estate owned (REO) properties explained (and how to find them!) And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-713. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 04 May 2026 - 723 - How to Estimate Rehab Costs from Scratch (Materials & Labor) (Rookie Reply)
Need help estimating rehab costs? This is a huge unknown for many rookie investors. But not to worry—in this episode, we’ll show you how to do this as accurately as possible so you have fewer surprises once you’re under contract and it’s time to get your hands dirty! Welcome to another Rookie Reply! If you’re stuck with a property that’s giving you negative cash flow, you have two choices: hold (and figure it out) or sell. The answer is more nuanced than you probably think, but we’ll point you in the right direction. Next, whether you’re using the BRRRR method, flipping houses, or simply updating an existing rental property, every real estate investor must perform renovations at some point. Stay tuned to learn how to accurately estimate these costs and avoid over-improving your property. Finally, agents and sellers can become frustrated by “lowball” offers, but is there such a thing as an offer that’s too aggressive? We’ll show you how to find discounted deals without burning bridges along the way! Looking to invest? Need answers? Ask your question here! In This Episode We Cover How to accurately estimate rehab costs (step by step) How to avoid losing money by over-improving your property What to do when your rental property is giving you negative cash flow Whether you should hold or sell an underperforming property What to know before making an “aggressive” real estate offer And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-712. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, 01 May 2026 - 722 - BRRRR vs. Turnkey: Which Rental Strategy Actually Wins? (Not What You Think)
Before you buy your first rental property, you’ll need to pick an investing strategy. Should you opt for the convenience of a turnkey rental property or swing for more upside with the BRRRR method (buy, rehab, rent, refinance, repeat)? We’ll help you make the right choice! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! Today, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about turnkey real estate and value-add rental properties. To make sure we’re comparing apples to apples, we’ll use the same example property, crunch the numbers, and cover both processes from start to finish—your all-in costs, project timelines, cash flow, and much more. Which strategy is more rookie-friendly? Which makes more money? Which has the biggest risks? You’re about to find out! We provide a checklist of things you’ll need to do before committing to one strategy or the other, and then help you make a decision that aligns with your lifestyle and investing goals. Whether you’re starting from square one or have already begun narrowing down your options, this episode will give you the confidence to move forward! In This Episode We Cover The convenience of turnkey properties versus the upside of value-add real estate How to choose an investing strategy that fits your long-term goals The biggest investing risks to consider when using the BRRRR method Four crucial questions to ask before committing to an investing strategy The “checklist” to complete before buying your first investment property And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-711. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, 29 Apr 2026 - 721 - From Extreme Job Burnout to Breakthrough with 2 Rentals (He Quit His W2)
Feel stuck in a career that’s slowly wearing you down? Rentals give everyday people a clear path to financial freedom and flexibility, but few take it. When today’s guest had finally reached his breaking point, he grabbed the opportunity with both hands, trading his W-2 job for real estate! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! Brian Flint had his “dream job,” or so he thought. After two decades of mentally and physically demanding work, a traumatic work incident caused him to rethink what he wanted his life to look like over the next 20-30 years. Thankfully, he had real estate investing to fall back on, which simplified the decision to step away from his career as a fire captain. With rental properties, Brian has been able to not only leave the grueling 100-hour workweeks behind but also fund his $1 million dream home, buy vacation rentals across the U.S., and claim thousands of dollars in tax benefits. Whether you’re content at your nine-to-five or actively plotting your escape, Brian will show you how to make rentals part of your future! In This Episode We Cover How Brian left his W-2 job to focus on real estate investing (full-time!) Why Brian doubled down on rentals when his portfolio was $300,000 underwater Buying rental properties at a deep discount through VA foreclosure lists How to make money and gain experience with the co-hosting strategy Saving thousands with bonus depreciation and other tax benefits And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-710. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 27 Apr 2026 - 720 - Should You Self-Manage Your Rentals or Hire a Property Manager? (Rookie Reply)
Offer accepted! Congratulations—you’re well on your way to buying a rental property. But first, your earnest money deposit (EMD) is due. How much do you need to put down? What about due diligence fees? And what happens if the home inspection comes back with major issues? In today’s episode, we’ll show you what to pay and how to protect yourself! Welcome to another Rookie Reply! Your earnest money deposit is often the first big financial commitment you’ll make to your investment property. Ashley and Tony show you how to navigate the process, which contingencies to include, and what to do if an inspection goes sideways. Next, we tackle a question that forces investors to sacrifice cash flow or time: Should you self-manage your rental property or hire a property manager? Being a landlord might seem intimidating, but we’ve got a few tips that will make your experience much easier. Maybe you’re not ready for earnest money deposits or property managers yet because you haven’t found a real estate market with affordable home prices! Where should you start your search? What data should you be using? Stick around and we’ll break it all down! Looking to invest? Need answers? Ask your question here! In This Episode We Cover Earnest money deposits and due diligence fees explained (and how much to pay) What to do when your home inspection comes back with major problems Self-managing versus hiring property management for your rental property Where to invest when you can’t afford the home prices in your market Must-have data when choosing a new real estate market to invest in And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-709. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, 24 Apr 2026 - 719 - Need Money for a Down Payment? Try These 8 Side Hustles (That Actually Work)
Don’t have enough cash for a down payment or enough income to qualify for a mortgage? You’re not alone—many rookies have been (or are) in your shoes. If money’s the one thing standing between you and your real estate investing goals, stay tuned, because we’re bringing you eight side hustles that could help you buy a rental property! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! Today, we’re sharing our favorite side hustles to start alongside your nine-to-five job. We’re breaking down everything about these gigs, from the money, tools, and skills you’ll need to get started to each strategy’s income potential. Some of them take a few months to gain traction, but others can be up and running in a matter of days! And get this: each of these side hustles is proven—not just by people looking to make a few extra bucks, but by real rookie investors we’ve had on the podcast. Whether you’re starting from zero or need a little more money to fund your next real estate deal, these ideas will give you the push you need! In This Episode We Cover Eight side hustles that could pay for your next rental property Real case studies from past Real Estate Rookie guests How to choose, start, and scale your side hustle (step by step) Startup costs, must-have tools, and income potential for different gigs How to buy, refurbish, and flip “cheap” items for a massive profit And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-708. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, 22 Apr 2026 - 718 - How to Turn Your “Stuff” Into Cash-Flowing Assets (And Buy More Rentals)
If you could create a few income streams that gave you an extra $10,000, $20,000 or more per year, how would it change your life? Today’s guest has made a habit of turning her liabilities into cash-flowing assets, using everything from normal rental properties to mobile home parks, campers, and trucks to make more money. Stay tuned, and she’ll show you how to do the same so you can reach your financial goals sooner! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! During her time in the Air Force, Kimber Rachuy spent very little time in one place, often being stationed in different states and even countries. This would make real estate investing difficult for the average investor, but Kimber took action wherever her feet were. Fast forward to today, and she has four properties and seven rental “units” in multiple countries. Like most rookies, Kimber has never had millions to invest. But by getting creative with seller financing, IRA lending, and even selling her own vehicles, she’s always been able to scrounge up the funds for her next investment. In this episode, she shares her secrets to long-distance investing, the side hustles that grew her income, and more! In This Episode We Cover How Kimber scaled her portfolio to four properties and seven rental units Real estate side hustles that could help fund your next real estate deal Using a self-directed IRA (SDIRA) to make alternative investments Funding properties without the bank using seller financing Kimber’s keys to long-distance investing (out of state and overseas!) The number one mistake rookies make when self-managing a rental property And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-707. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 20 Apr 2026 - 717 - Should You Buy a Single-Family Rental or a Duplex? (Rookie Reply)
Looking to buy a rental property? First, you’ll need to decide between a single-family home and a small multifamily property. Which makes more money? And which is the better long-term investment? We’re breaking it all down in today’s episode! Welcome to another Rookie Reply! You’ve just received good and bad news. The good news? Your tenant gave you a heads up that rent will be late this month. The bad news? Rent will be late this month! What should you do—try to work with your otherwise-great tenant or enforce the terms of your lease agreement? We get into late fees, landlord-tenant laws, and even a solution that will help you keep the peace and get your rent on time! Next, what type of rental property should you buy? A single-family home or a small multifamily property, like a duplex? We weigh the pros and cons of each so you make the right choice. Forming a real estate investing partnership? You could test the waters by flipping a house or using the BRRRR method (buy, rehab, rent, refinance, repeat), but one option might be better than the other! Looking to invest? Need answers? Ask your question here! In This Episode We Cover The pros and cons of single-family rentals and small multifamily properties Which type of rental property is the best investment for YOU What to do when you’ve got a late-paying (or non-paying) tenant When to “work with” a tenant and when to enforce the lease agreement The best investing strategy when forming a new real estate partnership And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-706. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, 17 Apr 2026 - 716 - The 5-Step Framework for Investing in Real Estate with Your Spouse (or Partner)
Sometimes the biggest obstacle to buying a rental property isn’t finding real estate deals, or funding them, but getting your significant other on board! This is a major barrier for many new investors, and today, we’re helping you break through that barrier. In just a few months, your partner could be a full-fledged real estate rookie, too! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! In this episode, we share our five-step framework for getting your spouse on board with rental property investing. Don’t have a significant other? Use this blueprint to pitch real estate investing to a friend, family member, or coworker and form an investing partnership! We show you how to identify the long-term goals you have in common and connect them to real estate. You’ll also learn how to not only address any worst-case scenarios so you come across as competent and confident but also involve them in your plan. Whether your potential partner is completely opposed to the idea, cautiously supportive, or nearly ready to jump in, we’ll help you move them across the finish line! In This Episode We Cover Five steps to getting your spouse on board with real estate investing The number one reason why your partner won’t invest with you (yet!) The three responses investors usually get from their non-investing partners Three small steps that will involve your spouse in your investing strategy How to form a partnership with a spouse, partner, friend, or family member And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-705. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, 15 Apr 2026 - 715 - He Lives Overseas, But His 3 Rentals Cash Flow While He Sleeps
You don’t need hundreds of rental units to design the life you want. Today’s guest is busy traveling the world and only wants a handful of rental properties that can pay him while he sleeps. Since he’s unable to put roots down in any one market, he’s built reliable teams that keep everything running smoothly. If he can do it, YOU can too! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! Nearly 20 years ago, David Epstein became an “accidental” landlord, despite having a mountain of law school debt and very little knowledge about real estate. His first property? A small New York co-op that he was forced to rent out after being sent overseas. By growing his network, he was able to keep the property occupied and managed from thousands of miles away. This opened David’s eyes to the possibilities of real estate investing, but rather than scaling his real estate portfolio rapidly, David has taken a more strategic approach—picking strong long-term markets and choosing his properties carefully. Today, he owns three rentals, and as he nears retirement, he hopes to have five or six cash-flowing properties to help fund his lifestyle. Tune in to learn exactly how he plans to do it! In This Episode We Cover: How David built a rental portfolio that pays him while living overseas Getting into real estate at a more affordable price with the “co-op” strategy How to get your spouse on board with your real estate investing goals Scaling a real estate portfolio that funds your retirement lifestyle The pros and cons of investing in turnkey rental properties And So Much More! Links from the Show Ashley's BiggerPockets Profile Tony's BiggerPockets Profile Join BiggerPockets for FREE Real Estate Rookie Facebook Group Real Estate Rookie YouTube Ask Your Question for a Future Rookie Reply “Like” Real Estate Rookie on Facebook Follow Real Estate Rookie on Instagram Join us at the BiggerPockets Conference October 2-4 in Orlando. Buy tickets Sign Up for the Real Estate Rookie Newsletter Property Manager Finder Living Overseas Can Help You Earn More Money in Real Estate Over the Long Run—Here’s How Grab the Book, Long-Distance Real Estate Investing David's BiggerPockets Profile David’s LinkedIn Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-704. Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 13 Apr 2026 - 714 - Inheriting Tenants: How to Raise Rent & Protect Yourself (Rookie Reply)
You’ve bought a rental property, but there’s one curveball: you’re inheriting tenants! On one hand, you’re able to start earning rental income on day one. But on the other hand, how do you know you’re inheriting a quality tenant, and how do you go about raising rent? In today’s episode, we share everything you need to know—before and after closing! Welcome to another Rookie Reply! Which Airbnb markets are “oversaturated,” and how can you tell? Tony, our resident short-term rental expert, says there’s much more to market analysis than most rookies think. Stay tuned as he shows you which data you’ll need before committing to any market! Finally, how and when should you start scaling your real estate portfolio? Maybe you’ve bought your first rental property, have a great tenant in place, and are building some serious cash flow. At what point should you go ahead and buy your next investment property? We’ve got the answer! Looking to invest? Need answers? Ask your question here! In This Episode We Cover What every landlord should know before inheriting tenants and raising rent How to get tenants to ask for rent increases (with the “binder” strategy) Estoppel agreements explained (and when you need them!) How to determine if a short-term rental market is “oversaturated” How (and when) to start scaling your real estate portfolio And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-703 Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, 10 Apr 2026 - 713 - Don’t Make an Offer Without Including These 10 Items (Save Thousands)
What’s worse than losing a real estate offer? Winning one on a “headache” rental property! Sometimes, the difference between a “good” deal and “bad” one comes down to what’s written in your offer. Many real estate investors (and even agents) overlook crucial terms, and these oversights can lead to costly regrets. Today’s guest is breaking down exactly what to include so your next real estate deal doesn’t come back to bite you. Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! Laila Smith brings 17 years of experience as a Dallas-Fort Worth real estate agent, mortgage loan officer, and investor. Over her career, she’s analyzed many rental properties and written countless offers, giving her a clear understanding of where deals most often go wrong. In this episode, Laila shares the 10 essential terms she includes in every offer she writes. From seller-paid closing costs and home warranties to repair deadlines and HOA review rights, these line items could save you thousands and a ton of stress! In This Episode We Cover 10 terms you should include in every real estate offer you make Why making strong offers is one of the most “underrated” real estate skills Costly expenses you should always ask the seller to pay for How to write a “winning” offer without taking on unnecessary risk Common pitfalls that could cost you thousands on your next real estate deal And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-702 Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, 08 Apr 2026 - 712 - He Built a Thriving Business: Now He’s Trading It for Financial Freedom with Rentals
What if the life you dream of is just a few rental properties away? You don’t have to have it all figured out to start. Today’s guest knew close to nothing about real estate investing when he bought his first rental, but it was one of the best decisions he could have made for his future self! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! Justin Whitted has been cutting hair for over 20 years, and while he’s built a thriving small business in that time, the 55-hour workweeks are starting to take their toll. Justin’s ultimate goal? Completely replace his business income with rental income so he can work fewer hours and spend more time with his family. And as you’re about to hear, he’s well on his way! Justin became an “accidental” landlord 16 years ago when his parents suggested he move out of his apartment and buy a duplex. That first house hack was a home-run deal, offsetting his living expenses, giving him monthly cash flow, and propelling him toward bigger and better deals. With every new property, Justin takes another step toward financial freedom, and by following the advice he lays out in today’s episode, YOU could replicate his success! In This Episode We Cover The most “low-risk” way to start your real estate investing journey Offsetting your housing costs and “living for free” with the house hacking strategy How to create flexibility, financial freedom, and lasting wealth with real estate Creative ways to find great real estate deals in today’s market Justin’s number one lesson for rookie investors (after 16 years of owning rentals) And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-701 Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 06 Apr 2026 - 711 - How to Use Home Equity to Buy Your Next Rental Property (3 Ways) (Rookie Reply)
Don’t think you have the money to buy a rental property? Maybe you’re just looking in the wrong place! Today, we’re talking about different ways to invest in real estate using your existing home equity. Whether you’re buying your second, third, or fourth property, this simple strategy could help you build your real estate portfolio much faster! Welcome to another Rookie Reply! We’re back with three questions from the BiggerPockets Forums, the first of which is all about home equity lines of credit (HELOCs). What are they, and how do they work? Meanwhile, another investor is considering not just a HELOC but multiple options for tapping into their equity. Should they do a cash-out refinance? What about selling the property altogether? We cover the pros and cons of each strategy so YOU can make the right choice! Finally, do you really need a property manager? What about when investing out of state? Stick around until the end, as we share our favorite software, systems, and resources for hands-on landlords—no matter the distance! Looking to invest? Need answers? Ask your question here! In This Episode We Cover Home equity lines of credit (HELOCs) explained (and how to use them) Three ways to access the home equity in your investment property How to “recycle” the same funds to buy multiple rental properties Self-managing versus hiring property management when investing from afar The one time you absolutely should hire a property manager for your rental And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-700 Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, 03 Apr 2026 - 710 - She Bought 3 Properties in 3 Years: Now She’s Refinancing (Here’s Why)
Is now a good time to refinance your mortgage? If you bought a rental property in the last few years, you may be watching mortgage rates and waiting for the next best opportunity to refinance. But how does the process work, how much does it cost, and when should you pull the trigger? Today’s guest will tell you everything you need to know! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! Last time we spoke with Danielle Daly, she had just bought her very first rental property. Since then, she has added two more properties, used the house hacking strategy to “live for free,” and just recently refinanced one of her mortgages. In this episode, she walks us through her thought process and how she determined that now was the right time to lock in a lower rate. But that’s not all. Danielle also shares the two biggest lessons she’s learned to date, her go-to tools and systems for self-managing rental properties, and why she’s pivoting to another investing strategy in 2026! In This Episode We Cover How (and when) to refinance your rental property (step by step) How Danielle bought three rental properties in just three years Must-have tools and systems for growing your real estate business How much money you should have in cash reserves (per property!) Why Danielle is pivoting away from the co-living strategy in 2026 And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-699 Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, 01 Apr 2026 - 709 - Making $5,000/Month Cash Flow from One Rental Property (And Retiring in 4 Years)
Want to retire with rentals so you can buy back your time and travel the world? Despite a successful 35-year engineering career, today’s guest was still financially dependent on her nine-to-five—until she pivoted to real estate investing. In just four years, she has bought four rental properties and left her W-2 job for good. How? Stay tuned and she’ll show you! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! When Sandy Lee’s 50th birthday arrived, she realized she wasn’t quite where she wanted to be in life. At a crossroads in her career and still needing at least another five years at her current job before retirement, Sandy was ready for a drastic change (and a new challenge!). Now, with four short-term rentals and a highly profitable real estate business, Sandy has officially retired and designed her dream lifestyle, where she gets to travel throughout the year while spending only a few hours per week on her real estate portfolio. Whether you’re starting in your 20s or 50s, it’s never too early or too late to invest in real estate, and Sandy is living proof! In This Episode We Cover How Sandy built a four-property rental portfolio in just four years Making $5,000 in monthly cash flow from ONE rental property How to build a real estate portfolio that supports your ideal lifestyle Scaling a large portfolio versus having 100% paid-off properties What really moves the needle for Airbnb revenue and occupancy When to hire a “revenue manager” for your vacation rental portfolio And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-698 Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 30 Mar 2026 - 708 - The Best Types of Rental Properties for Beginners to Buy in 2026 (Rookie Reply)
What’s the best type of rental property for a beginner to buy? This is one of the first decisions every rookie needs to make, but between single-family homes, multifamily properties, condos, townhomes, and others, the options can be overwhelming. But not to worry—in today’s episode, we point you in the right direction! Welcome to another Rookie Reply! Ashley and Tony are back with three recent questions from the BiggerPockets Forums. Imagine you’re hearing about real estate investing for the first time. Where should you start? How do you know when you’re ready to invest? We share a three-bucket strategy that will prepare you for that first rental property! Next, where should you invest? If you’re like most rookies, you’re looking for cash flow, in which case we’ll show you how to pick a market with affordable home prices and strong rental demand. Finally, what type of rental property should you buy? We break down your options and show you how to choose based on your investing strategy and long-term goals! Looking to invest? Need answers? Ask your question here! In This Episode We Cover The best types of rental properties for rookie investors to buy Where to start when you’re completely new to real estate investing How to find a real estate market that delivers strong cash flow The three-bucket strategy that will prepare you for buying rental properties What to do when home prices are unaffordable in your current market And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-697 Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, 27 Mar 2026 - 707 - 10+ Things to Inspect Before You Buy a Rental Property (Foundation to Roof)
How do you know if the property you’re buying is a cash-flowing investment or a money pit? Too many investors think they’re getting a great deal, so they rush the due diligence process, waive home inspections, and hastily close on properties without knowing what’s really lurking beneath the surface. Don’t let that be YOU! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! Ellie Ridge was walking properties, scaling rooftops, and exploring crawl spaces with her contractor father at an early age. Now a top 1% real estate agent in the Bay Area, Ellie blends her deep home inspection knowledge and market expertise to educate home buyers on costly but avoidable mistakes. Today’s episode is just that—a crash course on what every rookie should watch for when walking a property, reading an inspection report, or doing their own due diligence. Whether you’re flipping houses, investing in rental properties, or buying a primary residence, neglecting these line items could cost you thousands shortly after closing. But with Ellie’s tips and tricks, you’ll feel more confident when making offers, renovating, and maintaining your property! In This Episode We Cover 10+ things that too many home buyers miss during the due diligence period How to protect your property’s value with routine rental maintenance What to expect when you receive a typical home inspection report Estimating the age of your plumbing system (and whether it will need to be replaced) Serious hazards to watch out for when inspecting an electrical panel Why an aging roof isn’t as big of a deal as you probably think And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-696 Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, 25 Mar 2026 - 706 - 8 Real Estate Deals in 2 Years While Working Full-Time (Raising 4 Kids)
How badly do you want to leave your nine-to-five job, retire early, or travel the world? For this mom of four, working until traditional retirement age was never an option. She’s already taken down eight real estate deals in just two years, which has allowed her husband to quit his W-2 job. And she’s next in line! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! Molly Shepard is a U.S. Army veteran, busy mom, and full-time loan officer, and yet she’s been able to carve out time to work on the one thing that will give her family financial freedom: real estate investing. Motivated to be work-optional as soon as possible, Molly has walked hundreds of houses, made dozens of offers, and bought several properties in a matter of months. But she hasn’t done it without help. In this episode, Molly shares how she rapidly grew her investing network, allowing her to find more off-market properties and buy them with as little as $0 out of pocket. She also walks you through the deal that started it all—a home-run house flip that netted her $50,000 in pure profit! In this episode we cover: How Molly and her husband flipped eight houses in under two years Investing in real estate while working full-time and raising four children How Molly pocketed $50,000 in pure profit on her very first house flip Creative ways to fund your real estate deals while paying as little as $0 upfront Crucial details you can’t afford to overlook during your due diligence period And So Much More! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 23 Mar 2026 - 705 - The “Boring” Rental Strategy That Could Retire You by Your 40s (Rookie Reply)
Do you dream of reaching financial independence (or retiring!) in the next 20 years? Whether you’re in your 20s, 30s, 40s, or 50s, it’s never too early or too late to buy rental properties. Today, we’re sharing a clear, 20-year roadmap that could give you a sizable real estate portfolio and more than enough cash flow to live on! Welcome to another Rookie Reply! Today’s first question comes from the BiggerPockets Forums, and it’s from an investor who’s been priced out of their own market. Where should they start their search for more affordable home prices? We point them in the right direction while also warning them of “cheap” properties that aren’t worth the risk. Next, we hear from a young couple looking to achieve financial independence in 20 years. Should they buy a home or a rental property first? What investing strategy will get them closest to their goal? Another investor is worried about short-term rental laws derailing their deal. We show you where to find your city’s latest regulations so you can make the right decision! Looking to invest? Need answers? Ask your question here! In This Episode We Cover Our 20-year roadmap to achieving financial independence with rentals Whether you should buy a house or a rental property first (or both!) Where to invest when your own real estate market is too expensive The types of rental properties that give you the least appreciation (must avoid!) How to do your due diligence on a short-term rental market And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-694 Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, 20 Mar 2026 - 704 - The Lazy Investor’s Guide to Real Estate Syndications (Passive Income)
Do you want the benefits of investing in real estate without the hassle of being a landlord? There’s an investing strategy that could give you more passive income, access to much bigger deals, and diversification across multiple properties and markets: real estate syndications. Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! Today, we’re talking all about syndications—how they work, how they make you money, and what goes on behind the scenes. You’ll learn about the two main roles in a syndication deal—general partners (GPs) and limited partners (LPs)—and their responsibilities. We’ll also show you exactly what you need to get started, whether you’re the one finding and managing the property or simply coming on board as a passive investor! How does investing in a syndication deal compare to owning rental properties? We cover the pros and cons of this strategy, the biggest red flags to watch for when vetting operators (or “sponsors”), and the investing risks you must weigh before committing to any syndication deal. In This Episode We Cover How to earn more passive income through a real estate syndication Two ways to become an “accredited investor” (and get access to more deals!) The three biggest red flags to watch out for when vetting a syndication deal The main responsibilities of a general partner (or “sponsor”) The biggest advantage rental properties have over most syndication deals Serious risks to be aware of before investing your money in a syndication And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-693 Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, 18 Mar 2026 - 703 - She Started Investing in Her 50s, Now She’ll Retire with Rentals!
Fear you’ll never invest in real estate because you’ve been dealt a bad hand? Today’s guest had a struggling business, a $70,000 tax lien, a pending divorce, and was on the brink of bankruptcy, but through hard work and persistence, she was able to completely flip her circumstances. Now, she owns a real estate portfolio of cash-flowing rentals, despite starting in her 50s! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! Beth Smart is the ultimate real estate success story. Despite juggling a recent divorce and a mountain of debt, all while taking care of two toddlers, she found a way to climb out of the financial hole she was in. And she didn’t slow down once she was back on her feet. From there, Beth figured out how to build real wealth with rental properties—dabbling in everything from short- and medium-term rentals to long-term rentals and even a few messy house flips! In this episode, Beth talks about the bulletproof mindset that helped her rebuild her life, the exact moment she realized she was an actual real estate investor, and the strategies she used to snowball from one property into the next! In This Episode We Cover How Beth overcame divorce, debt, and doubt to invest in real estate The crucial mindset shift that helped Beth rebuild her life (and finances) Turning $65,000 flipping profits into TWO cash-flowing rentals Growing your rental portfolio with funds from a business or side hustle What to do when your contractor quits on you (mid-project!) And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-692 Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 16 Mar 2026 - 702 - How to Buy Rentals (Faster) with Real Estate-Related Skills (Rookie Reply)
Do you have ANY skills that could help fast-track your real estate investing journey? Many rookies do! Whether you’re good at finding deals, remodeling kitchens, or managing rental properties, there are several ways to use these in-demand skills to your advantage. In this episode, we’ll show you how! Welcome to another Rookie Reply! Ashley and Tony are back with three new questions from the BiggerPockets Forums. First, we hear from someone who wants to use their remodeling skills to grow their real estate portfolio. What’s the best investing strategy for them? Could they bring “sweat equity” to a real estate partnership? Next, a self-managing landlord is struggling to keep up with emails, notices, and important dates. We share some of the tools and systems WE use to organize our projects and stay on top of key deadlines—without adding more to our plates! Finally, we hear from a rookie who’s having some serious buyer’s remorse due to plumbing, electrical, and HVAC issues they discovered after closing. Who’s at fault in this situation? The inspector? The seller? Stay tuned as we crack the case! Looking to invest? Need answers? Ask your question here! In This Episode We Cover Building your rental portfolio (faster!) with real estate-related skills How to use “sweat equity” to land your next real estate deal The best tools, systems, and strategies for self-managing your rentals What to do when you’re having buyer’s remorse about a rental property When to get a real estate attorney involved in buyer-seller disputes And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-691 Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, 13 Mar 2026 - 701 - He Made $65,000/Month on His First Rental Arbitrage “Contract” (Real Numbers!)
What if your next tenant wasn’t a short-term guest or a Section 8 renter but the U.S. government? You’re about to hear about a real estate business that makes not hundreds or thousands, but millions in predictable rental income, and the best part is that it doesn’t require huge startup costs or a large portfolio! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! When Noble Crawford took time off work for a family medical emergency, he never expected to return and become the scapegoat for the company’s bad sales numbers. In that moment, he realized he would never have control over his time, peace, or finances while working for someone else. So, he swiftly quit his W-2 job and pivoted to something that could give him what he was looking for: real estate investing. Fast forward to today, and Noble’s making millions with an investing strategy that most rookies have never even heard of. His very first contract was worth $65,000 a month—life-changing money for any rookie. His latest deal? A five-year contract worth $44 million, with roughly $17 million in pure cash flow. Where does he find these deals, and how can you copy his model? Stick around and he’ll show you! In This Episode We Cover How to secure “predictable” rental income through government contracting Making $44 million in five years from a single government contract How to find, negotiate, and land government contracts (start to finish) Why Noble pivoted from short-term rentals to government housing How to fully furnish your “arbitrage” units without incurring extra expenses And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-690 Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, 11 Mar 2026 - 700 - From Homeless to Homeowner with a 7-Bedroom Rental Property
Feel like you’re still years away from investing in real estate? Maybe you’ve got shaky finances, or you think you need more education. Today’s guest was practically broke and sleeping in his truck while buying a seven-bedroom rental property with minimal money down! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! Isaac Mann was done paying rent. He wanted to start building equity in a home, but with little money to his name, inconsistent income, and no real place to live, he knew he would need to get creative. And that’s exactly what he did, forming an investing partnership with two friends in order to qualify for a loan. Along the way, the deal was nearly derailed by lenders falling through and rigorous FHA inspections, but the trio pivoted and finally moved into the property, renting out rooms to friends to help minimize their share of the mortgage payment. How did they get the deal done? How much money is Isaac saving per month? And can you repeat the same strategy if you’re starting from zero? In This Episode We Cover How Isaac bought a seven-bedroom rental property (while sleeping in his truck) Lowering your cost of living with the rent-by-the-room strategy What to do when your lender falls through (and you’re under contract to buy!) The benefits and drawbacks of getting an FHA loan for your property The ins and outs of forming real estate investing partnerships And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-689 Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 09 Mar 2026 - 699 - Is the 2026 Housing Market Finally Becoming “Unstuck”? (Rookie Reply)
Is 2026 quietly shaping up to be a great time to buy a rental property? Following a sluggish year for home sales, the housing market could become “unstuck” in 2026, giving you a clear window to buy—IF you adjust your investing strategy accordingly! Welcome to another Rookie Reply! Today’s first question comes straight from the BiggerPockets Forums, and it’s all about closing day. What do you need to know once you get a property under contract? Ashley and Tony give their best property-saving tips, like why you should never skip an inspection, always have reserves, and more. 2025 was a down year for the housing market, but with mortgage rates easing slightly and prices dropping in many markets, now might be a better time to buy. We break down what’s happening in different areas of the country and how to fine-tune your strategy! Whether you’re flipping houses or renovating rentals, wholesalers and real estate agents don’t always give you the most accurate after-repair value (ARV) estimate, which can quickly throw your numbers off when analyzing rental properties. We’ll show you how to find good comps, calculate ARV, and be more confident in your numbers! Looking to invest? Need answers? Ask your question here! In This Episode We Cover How most rookies should be adjusting their investing strategy in 2026 How to find better real estate deals in your local market What to do before, during, and after closing on a rental property After-repair value (ARV) explained, and how to estimate it How to find (accurate) real estate comps for your investment property And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-688 Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, 06 Mar 2026 - 698 - 5 Systems Every Rookie Investor Needs for Faster Rehabs and Bigger Profits
Many rookies are freaked out by the thought of tackling rental renovations and things going south. But what if there were ways to lower your risk, save money, and almost guarantee success? Today’s guest graduated from “chaotic” rehabs to better, cheaper, faster house flips—all because she implemented the tools and tips you’re about to learn! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! Today, Serena Norris is a master house flipper, having completed over 130 projects and $55 million in volume. But she didn’t get there overnight. In this episode, she winds the clock back to the beginning of her real estate investing journey, when every project came with headaches, delays, and surprise costs. When she’d finally had enough, Serena adopted tools and templates that now keep her projects organized, on track, and within budget. What are the first systems every real estate business needs? What’s the best project management software? Should you hire a general contractor for your renovations? How do you create an accurate scope of work? Stay tuned as Serena answers all of these questions and more! In This Episode We Cover Crucial tools and templates Serena uses in her own real estate business Traveling the world while flipping houses by having the right systems in place Hiring a general contractor versus self-managing your home renovations How to (accurately) estimate rehab costs and create your project budget Two “non-negotiables” for all rookies before taking on rehab projects And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-687 Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, 04 Mar 2026 - 697 - $3,500/Month Cash Flow from One Self Storage Facility (Same Price as a Rental)
Think building a portfolio or “retiring” with real estate is too far out of reach? Just eight years ago, today’s guest was graduating from college and starting a full-time job. Now, he makes six-figure cash flow and has ditched his W-2 job before the age of 30—all thanks to an investing strategy that allows you to build wealth without tenants or toilets: self-storage. Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! At just 23 years old, Steven May did what so many rookies are afraid to do: He bought a house, rented out the rooms, and used his cash flow to help buy the next one. But then, he discovered self-storage investing and everything changed. His first facility was the kind of deal most investors only dream of—one he purchased for roughly the same price as a single-family home that cash flows over $3,500 a month! But pivoting from residential to commercial real estate wasn’t easy. Steven had to learn a new asset class, where to find deals, and how to get enough capital to scale his real estate portfolio. But in this episode, he’ll show you each step he took to go from buying simple, single-family house hacks to multimillion-dollar self-storage facilities! In This Episode We Cover Buying seven self-storage facilities in just five years (before turning 30!) Why Steven pivoted from residential real estate to self-storage investing Steven’s “playbook” for buying your first self-storage facility in 2026 The best ways to fund self-storage deals (and “recycle” your money) How to increase self-storage revenue with simple, operational improvements Scaling your self-storage portfolio fast through investing partnerships And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-686 Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 02 Mar 2026 - 696 - This “Hybrid” Rental Strategy Is a No-Brainer for Rookies in 2026 (Rookie Reply)
Want to finally buy a rental property in 2026? You’ve listened to the podcast. You’ve read the books. But what’s the best way to actually start? Today, we’re pulling back the curtain and sharing a beginner-friendly strategy that gives you a bit of everything—cash flow, appreciation, loan paydown, AND tax benefits! Welcome to another Rookie Reply! We’re back with more questions from the BiggerPockets Forums. First, we’ll hear from someone who knows plenty about real estate investing but needs a clearer roadmap for getting started and scaling their real estate portfolio. Ashley and Tony share a rookie-friendly investing strategy that will help them not only buy their first deal but also get a head start on building serious wealth! Another rookie has saved a large amount of money and is considering buying their first property in cash. But should they? We weigh the pros and cons of paying cash versus getting a mortgage. Then, we discuss the opportunities and risks of investing in D-class neighborhoods, as well as a few things all rookies should know before evicting tenants. Looking to invest? Need answers? Ask your question here! In This Episode We Cover The beginner-friendly strategy that gives you cash flow, appreciation, and more Paying in cash for an investment property versus getting a mortgage Finding affordable areas to invest when you’re priced out of your own market The biggest opportunities and risks of investing in “rough” neighborhoods What every rookie should know before evicting troublesome tenants And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-685 Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, 27 Feb 2026 - 695 - 5 Things We’d Do If We Were Starting Over in Real Estate Today
Still stuck on step one in your investing journey? There are countless success stories from investors who started five, 10, or 20 years ago. But getting started in 2026 is a different ballgame. Not to worry—we’re sharing exactly how we’d approach real estate investing if we were starting over today! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! Today, Ashley and Tony own dozens of rentals, but not long ago, they were rookies, too. If they had to go back and build their real estate portfolios from scratch, knowing what they know now, what would they do differently? We’re breaking it all down on today’s episode! Whether you dream of retiring early with real estate or simply owning a rental property or two, this episode is full of helpful tips, tricks, and traps WE wish we knew when starting out. You’ll learn all about setting real estate investing goals, building your buy box, and lining up your financing. We also share why waiting for the home-run deal is actually a trap, while buying the “boring” deals will eventually make you rich! In This Episode We Cover Five things we’d do differently if we were starting over in real estate today Picking the “boring” deal versus waiting for the “home-run” rental The crucial questions YOU must answer before investing in real estate Financial “levers” you can pull to help fund your first real estate deal How to create your buy box and niche down to specific neighborhoods And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-684 Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, 25 Feb 2026 - 694 - Changing His Family’s Future with 3 “Boring” Rentals and $2,500/Month Cash Flow
Think you need a trust fund, seed money, or a rich uncle to invest in real estate? You don’t! With just 10 years of simple, “boring” investing, rental properties could completely alter your life’s trajectory. Today’s guest started from zero but now owns a small real estate portfolio that brings in over $2,500 in monthly cash flow! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! Kadeem Kamal didn’t come from money—quite the opposite. But after discovering he could buy a house that doubled as a rental property, after years of paying rent, he grabbed the opportunity with both hands. Since buying that first property back in 2018, Kadeem has bought two more rental properties, built his own home, and never paid his mortgage out of pocket! Like many rookies, Kadeem knew very little about real estate investing when he got started. But by taking action and learning on the fly, he’s been able to secure his family’s financial future. In less than a decade, Kadeem has built up over $800,000 in equity. Stay tuned to learn how YOU can copy his success! In This Episode We Cover How Kadeem makes $2,500 in monthly cash flow with three rental properties A 10-year game plan for achieving financial freedom with “boring” investing Having tenants pay your mortgage with the house hacking strategy The creative strategy Kadeem used to fund the down payment for his first property Section 8 rental income isn’t guaranteed? (How to protect yourself!) And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-683 Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 23 Feb 2026 - 693 - Should I Use My Home Equity to Buy My Next Rental Property? (Rookie Reply)
Should you use your home equity to buy a rental property? Whether it’s your primary residence or another investment property, this strategy could help you scale faster. But between a cash-out refinance, a home equity line of credit (HELOC), or a different method entirely, what’s the best way to tap into your funds? Welcome to another Rookie Reply! Today, Ashley and Tony are answering more questions from the BiggerPockets Forums, the first of which comes from someone who’s looking to redeploy the home equity they’ve built up in one of their properties. Tune in as we share several creative ways to take down your next deal and grow your real estate portfolio! Another investor is struggling to estimate rents when analyzing rental properties. We share several tools every rookie can use, as well as the method Ashley uses to calculate rents by hand. Finally, if you own short-term rentals, a cleaner might be the most important hire you ever make. Stick around as Tony shares the process he uses to find, vet, and onboard one! Looking to invest? Need answers? Ask your question here! In This Episode We Cover How to buy a rental property (faster) by “recycling” your money The best ways to tap into your home equity and reinvest in real estate How to (accurately) estimate rents for any investment property Why you always need a “pivot” for any real estate investment Finding, vetting, and hiring cleaners for your short-term rentals And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-682 Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, 20 Feb 2026 - 692 - How to Buy Your First (or Next) Rental Property in 2026 (Step by Step)
Want to buy your first rental property in 2026? You’ve come to the right place! Whether you dream of becoming a “small and mighty” investor or building a large real estate portfolio, buying that first property is often the biggest hurdle. But today, we’re going to show you how to do just that, step by step! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! Real estate investing might seem daunting, but in this episode, Ashley and Tony break the entire process down into manageable, rookie-friendly steps. We cover everything from setting goals and laying the right financial foundation to making offers and getting properties under contract. Along the way, you’ll learn how to choose your investing strategy, pick your market, analyze deals, and build out your very own investing team. Even if you’re starting with zero knowledge or experience, it doesn’t need to take six months, a year, or longer to buy an investment property. With our rookie-friendly roadmap, you have all of the tips and tools you need to take down that first property in 90 days or less! In This Episode We Cover How to buy your first (or next) rental property in 2026 (step by step) Why you need to lay the proper foundation before investing in real estate Picking the right real estate market and building out your investing team How to analyze rental properties like a pro with Tony’s seven-day challenge How to make an offer, negotiate, and get your next deal under contract What to do once you’ve officially closed on your first investment property And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-681 Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, 18 Feb 2026 - 691 - Buying 4 Small Multifamily Rentals in Just 2 Years (While Working a W2)
The what-ifs of real estate investing keep many rookies on the sidelines indefinitely. But when today’s guest determined his “safe” nine-to-five was just as uncertain as buying a rental property, he took the plunge. Now, having bought four small multifamily properties in just two years while keeping his W2 job, he’s fast-tracking financial freedom! Welcome back to the Real Estate Rookie podcast! Like many rookies, Derek Brickley dreamed of owning a sizable rental portfolio, but taking that first step was his biggest hurdle. He could have allowed his blind spots to keep him trapped in analysis paralysis, but instead, he leaned into his investing network and drummed up the courage to buy his first house hack. It wasn’t a home-run deal, but it changed everything, teaching him how to make offers on properties, plan renovations, and manage tenants. Now, Derek has the tools to scale his real estate portfolio and an investing strategy that has set him on a clear path to financial freedom. Rather than using real estate to supplement his day job, his W2 income now supplements his investments. Stay tuned as he shares his highly “repeatable” process! In This Episode We Cover How Derek bought four small multifamily properties in just two years Building your rental portfolio faster by keeping (not quitting!) your W2 job Leveraging your investing network to bridge the knowledge “gap” Having tenants pay for your living expenses with the house hacking strategy How to do your due diligence before inheriting tenants with a rental property Critical mistakes to avoid when tackling do-it-yourself (DIY) renovations And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-680 Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 16 Feb 2026 - 690 - How to Buy Rental #2, #3, or #4 When You’re Out of Funds (Rookie Reply)
Stuck at one rental property? Maybe you spent years saving for that first down payment, and now, your funds are depleted. Where do you go from here? Not to worry—we’ll show you how to get past this common rookie roadblock and buy your second, third, and fourth deals! Welcome to another Rookie Reply! Ashley and Tony are back with more questions from the BiggerPockets Forums, the first of which is about scaling when you’re out of cash. Some rookie investors throw their entire savings at that first investment property, so do you really have to start over to buy the next one? Maybe you don’t! We share a few strategies that will help you grow your real estate portfolio faster. Insurance premiums have risen in many markets, but what do you do when they actually kill your deal, wiping out any potential cash flow? Abandon the deal entirely? Go back and negotiate with the seller? We also hear from an investor who wants to build an Airbnb business and take advantage of the short-term rental tax loophole, but is struggling to pick a market. We’ll help them narrow down their options! Looking to invest? Need answers? Ask your question here! In This Episode We Cover How to scale your real estate portfolio when working with limited funds Using creative financing to buy rental properties with less money down How to reduce your taxable income with the short-term rental loophole What to do when insurance costs blow up your real estate deal How to find and choose the best short-term rental markets for 2026 And So Much More! Check out more resources from this show on BiggerPockets.com and https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rookie-679 Interested in learning more about today’s sponsors or becoming a BiggerPockets partner yourself? Email advertise@biggerpockets.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, 13 Feb 2026
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