EP 123: Real Estate Insights to Unlock Financial Freedom with Lawrence Dunning, MBA

Kate Lynch, the managing partner at Estate Barrels, shares her journey from a Wall Street investment banker to a successful real estate investor and, eventually, a partner in a bourbon investment venture. Faced with the challenge of balancing a demanding career and family life after having three children, Lynch transitioned into real estate to gain financial and time freedom.

She initially invested in multifamily properties in Cleveland, leveraging Airbnb for strong cash flow, and eventually diversified into vacation homes, though she found urban rentals more profitable and less hassle. Lynch's foray into bourbon investment with her brother emerged from recognizing the lucrative opportunity in the appreciation of bourbon barrels over time.

Their fund focuses on acquiring barrels from select Kentucky distilleries, betting on the increasing demand for bourbon globally without tying to specific brands. Tune in to discover how she mastered the art of real estate investing and bourbon barrel investment.

Key takeaways to listen to:

• Transitioning from investment banking to real estate and bourbon investments.
• Urban rentals Vs vacation homes: How Kate capitalized on Airbnb to generate strong cash flows.
• Tapping into the lucrative market of bourbon barrel investment, focusing on premium Kentucky distilleries.
• Demonstrating the potential for significant returns within a two-year timeline, the bourbon investment venture offers a unique opportunity to benefit from the appreciation of aging bourbon barrels.
• The importance of expertise and insider knowledge in securing profitable bourbon investments.

About Kate Lynch:
Kate Lynch is a seasoned finance professional with over 20 years of experience in the banking and investment industry. She has a proven track record of advising financial institutions on M&A, capital markets, and strategic planning services, both in New York and in the Midwest. She officially retired from investment banking in 2022, but continues to consult with banks and mortgage companies upon request.

Since 2022, Kate has been managing her own investment real estate portfolio, focused on small multifamily and short-term vacation rentals in the Midwest. She also joined her brother in 2023 to launch Estate Barrels, a private investment vehicle that leverages the rapid and consistent appreciation in the value of bourbon as it matures from the "new make" stage into 2- to 4-year aged barrels. Kate is passionate about creating wealth through alternative assets and exploring the unique opportunities in the bourbon market.

Connect with Kate:

• Website - https://www.estatebarrels.com/
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/katelynchcapital/

To connect with Randal and learn more about passive investing, visit www.ridgelineig.com and follow our social media pages below!

• Ridgeline Investment Group on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ridgelineig/ 
• Agents Building Cashflow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/agentsbuildingcashflow
• Subscribe to our YouTube channel: @agentsbuildingcashflow
• Send us an email: rm@ridgelineig.com

In this episode of Agents Building Cashflow, Randal takes you on a unique onsite journey to explore the ins and outs of real estate investment through crowdfunding. Randal shares his firsthand experience with a recent property acquisition by his company’s RAM Capital Fund, detailing the process of buying, renovating, and financing a two-bedroom house to significantly increase its value. He dives deep into the mechanics of crowdfunding and outlines how anyone can leverage regulation CF to raise up to $5 million for their real estate ventures. 

Through practical advice, Randal demystifies the process of using crowdfunding for real estate investment, offering valuable tips for both seasoned investors and those new to the field. Curious about how you can start your own crowdfunded real estate project or want to learn more about maximizing returns on investment? Tune in to this episode for some enlightening advice that could revolutionize your approach to real estate investment.

Key takeaways to listen to

• How crowdfunding can significantly leverage real estate investments by allowing for the raising of substantial capital.
• Increasing a property's value and delivering lucrative returns to investors through strategic renovations.
• Understanding regulation CF and how it enables real estate investors to raise up to $5 million for their real estate ventures.
• Why crowdfunding is the best viable alternative to traditional financing methods.
• The importance of effective deployment of capital and the ability to provide attractive returns to investors.

Resources mentioned in this episode
RAM Capital Fund - https://www.ridgelineig.com/ram-capital-fund-i

If you’re interested in learning more about investment opportunities and multifamily funds, just contact Randal at podcast@agentsbuildingcashflow.com.

To connect with Randal and learn more about passive investing, visit www.ridgelineig.com and follow our social media pages below!

• Ridgeline Investment Group on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ridgelineig/ 
• Agents Building Cashflow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/agentsbuildingcashflow
• Subscribe to our YouTube channel: @agentsbuildingcashflow
• Send us an email: rm@ridgelineig.com

Joel Friedland, the Principal at Brit Properties, a boutique owner and operator of industrial real estate, talks about his expansive career in the industrial real estate sector. He dives into how he started in the industry with no money, leveraging relationships to secure his first deals, and the lessons he learned from both successes and failures. 

He highlights his transition from a broker to an investor, the challenges of navigating high interest rates, and his strategic shift towards all-cash deals to mitigate risk. The wisdom Joel shared will offer valuable insights into building a resilient real estate investment portfolio, and emphasize the importance of strategic decision-making and the willingness to adapt to changing market dynamics. Tune in for that and more!

Key takeaways to listen to:

• The importance of adaptability and resilience in industrial real estate investing.
• How to get started with no capital while leveraging relationships to secure deals.
• Broker to investor: Why strategic decision-making and the ability to navigate market fluctuations are crucial to success in industrial real estate investing.
• Proactive approaches to risk management in real estate investments.
• The value of learning from both successes and failures.

About Joel Friedland:

Joel Friedland has a 42 year track record in industrial real estate. He co-founded Epic/Savage Realty Partners in 1991 where he oversaw hiring and mentoring 60 industrial real estate professionals, many of whom became his partners. His group sold the firm to an international real estate company in 2014 and Joel started Brit Properties. As an industrial real estate broker and owner, Joel has secured over 2,000 industrial property leases and sales, totaling over $2 billion in transactions. 

Joel’s greatest accomplishment is maintaining valued relationships with brokers, tenants and investors spanning five decades. He does fully syndicated deals with 0% debt, an unheard of approach in real estate which caters to his wealthy investor base primarily concerned with conservation of principal. 

His experiences during the Great Recession in 2008 have informed his investment approach to be hyper-conservative while still allowing an ~8% cash return, plus upside, for his investors. Joel attended the University of Michigan. He enjoys playing golf and spending time with his family, particularly his three young grandchildren.

Connect with Joel:

• Website - https://britproperties.com/
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joel-friedland-sior-5508a791/

To connect with Randal and learn more about passive investing, visit www.ridgelineig.com and follow our social media pages below!

• Ridgeline Investment Group on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ridgelineig/ 
• Agents Building Cashflow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/agentsbuildingcashflow
• Subscribe to our YouTube channel: @agentsbuildingcashflow
• Send us an email: rm@ridgelineig.com

In this episode of Agents Building Cashflow, Randal talks about the advantages of cost segregation studies in real estate investments, particularly how they can significantly enhance tax benefits for real estate professionals. He explains that cost segregation allows for accelerated depreciation on certain property components, thereby increasing deductions and reducing tax liability. 

Randal highlights the potential to apply such depreciation against active income for real estate professionals or against passive income for non-professional investors. The episode emphasizes the strategic use of cost segregation to build a portfolio of losses that can offset income over several years, underlining its utility in real estate investment and tax planning. Tune in to learn more.

Key takeaways to listen to

• How cost segregation can dramatically reduce your tax liability by accelerating depreciation.
• The unique benefits available to real estate professionals, including deductions against active income.
• Leveraging cost segregation for substantial tax advantages - A tip for non-professional investors.
• Using cost segregation to build a loss portfolio that offsets income for years.
• Strategic approaches to enhance your real estate investment returns through savvy tax planning.

Resources mentioned in this episode

• RAM Capital Fund - https://www.ridgelineig.com/ram-capital-fund-i
• If you’re interested in learning more about investment opportunities and multifamily funds, just contact Randal at podcast@agentsbuildingcashflow.com. 

To connect with Randal and learn more about passive investing, visit www.ridgelineig.com and follow our social media pages below!

• Ridgeline Investment Group on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ridgelineig/ 
• Agents Building Cashflow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/agentsbuildingcashflow
• Subscribe to our YouTube channel: @agentsbuildingcashflow
• Send us an email: rm@ridgelineig.com

Ian Horowitz, the Managing Partner at Equity Warehouse, shares his transformative journey from a firefighter to a successful real estate investor managing a $70 million portfolio. Ian emphasizes the significance of local investment, operational efficiency, and the strategic scaling of real estate ventures. 

He delves into the advantages of focusing on core strengths, diversifying investments, and the concept of the velocity of capital for growth. Tune in to learn some valuable lessons on overcoming operational challenges, the importance of company culture, and future-focused strategic planning in real estate investment.

Key takeaways to listen to:

• From Firefighting to Real Estate: Ian's journey from being a firefighter to managing a $70 million real estate portfolio.
• Operational efficiencies and competitive advantages gained from local knowledge and management.
• Why you should focus on your core strengths and how to create a company culture that aligns with those strengths for business growth.
• Diversifying within the real estate market, from residential and industrial properties to self-storage.
• The operational challenges faced when managing properties, especially remotely.
• Scaling from single-family units to multifamily and larger commercial investments as a strategy for growth.
• Velocity of capital in real estate - How quickly turning over capital can lead to significant portfolio growth.
• Real estate investment success strategies for 2024 - 2025.

About Ian Horowitz:

Ian Horowitz is the Managing Partner at Equity Warehouse, a top real estate investing company based out of Baltimore. With the acquisition of his inaugural rental property in 2012, Ian embarked on a diversified journey within the realm of real estate, encompassing property flipping, single-family rental properties, multifamily units, and self-storage ventures. Presently, Ian, in collaboration with his business partner Daniel Mathe, presides over the ownership and management of a robust real estate portfolio valued at $70,000,000.

Their strategic focus lies predominantly in the domains of Self-Storage and Multi-Family properties. Gratefully, Ian and Dan have successfully transitioned from their prior careers as firefighters with the City of Baltimore, propelled by their achievements in the real estate sector. Ian, a licensed pilot, not only navigates the skies but also cherishes moments spent with his wife and two daughters.

Connect with Ian:

• Website - https://www.equitywarehouse.com/
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ian-horowitz-255185106/

To connect with Randal and learn more about passive investing, visit www.ridgelineig.com and follow our social media pages below!

• Ridgeline Investment Group on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ridgelineig/ 
• Agents Building Cashflow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/agentsbuildingcashflow
• Subscribe to our YouTube channel: @agentsbuildingcashflow
• Send us an email: rm@ridgelineig.com

In this episode of Agents Building Cashflow, Randal shares his experience navigating the complexities of acquiring a 24-unit multifamily property in San Antonio through a short sale. He details the rigorous process of re-underwriting the deal multiple times as new information emerged regarding taxes, interest, and potential expense reductions. 

Randal highlights the challenges of negotiating lower prices due to necessary sewer repairs and managing the intricacies of dealing with multiple parties with varying levels of property knowledge. Tune in to learn about the diligence and strategic negotiation required in real estate investment., and so much more.

Key takeaways to listen to

• The complex journey of acquiring a multifamily property through a short sale, replete with re-underwriting challenges.
• Beneficial reduction in a property's purchase price through strategic negotiations over sewer repairs.
• A realistic glimpse into the timelines and strategies of real estate transactions.
• An investment's promising potential for rent increases as a key value-add opportunity.

Resources mentioned in this episode
RAM Capital Fund - https://www.ridgelineig.com/ram-capital-fund-i

If you’re interested in learning more about investment opportunities and multifamily funds, just contact Randal at podcast@agentsbuildingcashflow.com. 

To connect with Randal and learn more about passive investing, visit www.ridgelineig.com and follow our social media pages below!

• Ridgeline Investment Group on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ridgelineig/ 
• Agents Building Cashflow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/agentsbuildingcashflow
• Subscribe to our YouTube channel: @agentsbuildingcashflow
• Send us an email: rm@ridgelineig.com

Axel Ragnarsson, the Founder of Aligned Real Estate Partners, shares his journey and strategies in the multifamily real estate investment space, emphasizing the importance of starting small, focusing on achievable deals, and leveraging personal funds for initial investments. He discusses his transition from individual property investments to raising capital for larger deals, highlighting the benefits and challenges of both approaches. Axel also touches on his specific focus on small to midsize multifamily properties, primarily in New Hampshire, and his methods for finding off-market deals to generate significant returns. 

Additionally, he shares insights on market selection, the value of direct seller engagement over brokered deals, and the operational efficiencies gained from vertically integrating property management. The conversation also explores broader investment philosophies, including the pitfalls of chasing trends and the importance of focused, long-term strategies in building wealth through real estate.

Key takeaways to listen to:

• Starting in real estate with manageable, direct investments.
• Transitioning to capital raising and larger multifamily deals.
• Focusing on specific market segments for better returns.
• Direct seller engagement and off-market deals.
• Operational efficiencies and property management strategies.
• Investment philosophies and long-term wealth building.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• The Multifamily Wealth Podcast with Axel Ragnarsson - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-multifamily-wealth-podcast/id1511607285

About Axel Ragnarsson:

Axel is an active real estate investor based in Boston, MA. He is the founder of Aligned Real Estate Partners, which focuses on acquiring class B and C value-add assets in multiple markets throughout the United States. Currently, Aligned Real Estate Partners either directly owns or has a GP interest in 450+ units of multifamily real estate and has been a principal party in $62M+ transactions.

Axel has directly sourced, raised capital, and operated mid-large multifamily transactions in numerous markets throughout the U.S., including FL, IN, NH, and TX. He is also a founding partner of Blue Door Living, a property management company based in NH that manages over 300 units of small to midsize multifamily real estate. Axel is also the host of The Multifamily Wealth Podcast, one of the industry’s most highly-rated multifamily real estate podcasts.

Connect with Axel:

• Website - https://alignedrep.com/
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/axelragnarsson/

To connect with Randal and learn more about passive investing, visit www.ridgelineig.com and follow our social media pages below!

• Ridgeline Investment Group on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ridgelineig/ 
• Agents Building Cashflow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/agentsbuildingcashflow
• Subscribe to our YouTube channel: @agentsbuildingcashflow
• Send us an email: rm@ridgelineig.com

Seasoned real estate investor, Lawrence Dunning, shares his personal journey, financial philosophy, and the urgent need to spread the message of asset ownership in an inflationary world. He highlights how real estate isn't just about cash flow and appreciation but is a powerful tool for tax benefits, especially for those navigating the complexities of family life and building wealth. 

He spills the secrets of the forgotten asset class - real estate. He also talks about crafting the book, "The Forgotten Asset Class," aimed at demystifying the complexities of real estate investing. Stay tuned for that and more.

Key takeaways to listen to:

• Why unlike stocks and bonds, real estate requires a nuanced understanding of specific markets and local dynamics.
• The importance of defining non-negotiables for a balanced life.
• How money can alleviate financial stress and amplify one's human experience.
• The challenging process of co-authoring a book, combining technical analytics and personal anecdotes.
• Black Belt in Life: Lawrence’s reflection on his multifaceted experiences.
• The value in documenting our life lessons for future generations.
• Viewing real estate as the fourth asset class often neglected by mainstream financial education.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• The Forgotten Asset Class By Lawrence Dunning and Brad Anastacia - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Forgotten-Asset-Class-Reward-Investing-ebook/dp/B0CMNRJ5D3

About Lawrence Dunning, MBA

Born and raised in London, England, Lawrence holds both an undergraduate Degree and an MBA from the University of Exeter. Lawrence has spent the last 21 years calling Chicago home, after extensive work experience as a fixed-income derivatives trader, first in London and Amsterdam, then on Wall Street, before finally settling at The Chicago Board of Trade, and starting his own Trading Company. As Lawrence always welcomes opportunities to re-invent himself, he placed his entire focus and commitment to real estate, after he began investing in multi-units properties in 2009, and later becoming a full time broker in 2014. 

He owns a vast and diversified portfolio of commercial and residential investment properties, of which he adds to at every opportunity. His dignified professionalism, deep knowledge base and focus on relationship building has earned him the title of “Top 1%” Agent in Chicago, along with being highest producer at his company, for six consecutive years. He has appeared on numerous Podcasts, including co-founding “The Off-Market Show”, as well as “Keeping it Real”, “AE Wheelhouse” and WGN Radio Show talking about various aspects of real estate investment strategies.

Connect with Lawrence:

• Website: https://enterthelionheart.com/
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lawrence-dunning-mba-2b97a120/

To connect with Randal and learn more about passive investing, visit www.ridgelineig.com and follow our social media pages below!

• Ridgeline Investment Group on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ridgelineig/ 
• Agents Building Cashflow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/agentsbuildingcashflow
• Subscribe to our YouTube channel: @agentsbuildingcashflow
• Send us an email: rm@ridgelineig.com

In this episode of Agents Building Cashflow, Randal announces the start of a new season featuring interviews with experts in the field who will share secrets and insights on investing in assets like apartment communities. He will highlight upcoming interviews with Lawrence Dunning and Axel Ragnarsson, emphasizing the importance of enjoying the journey in real estate, investing for the long term, and building meaningful relationships. 

Randall will share anecdotes from his own journey, and encourage you as a real estate agent to appreciate the smaller steps and not rush into ambitious projects, ultimately ensuring your financial freedom through real estate investment.

Key takeaways to listen to

• Insider strategies for real estate agents to convert commissions into consistent cash flow.
• Insights on finding fulfillment and financial success.
• Overcoming investment anxiety by learning tools and gaining education to move from fear to financial freedom in real estate.
• Focusing on long-term investments and relationships.
• The significant impact of small steps leading to substantial gains.

Resources mentioned in this episode
RAM Capital Fund - https://www.ridgelineig.com/ram-capital-fund-i

If you’re interested in learning more about investment opportunities and multifamily funds, just contact Randal at podcast@agentsbuildingcashflow.com. 

To connect with Randal and learn more about passive investing, visit www.ridgelineig.com and follow our social media pages below!

• Ridgeline Investment Group on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ridgelineig/ 
• Agents Building Cashflow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/agentsbuildingcashflow
• Subscribe to our YouTube channel: @agentsbuildingcashflow
• Send us an email: rm@ridgelineig.com

Seize the opportunity to secure your financial future by tuning in to this episode about the latest market trends and exclusive real estate investment opportunities in 2024. Don't miss the chance to strategically position yourself in the real estate market right now.

Key takeaways to listen to

• A crowdfunding opportunity for real estate investors
• Updates on the real estate’s current market conditions
• Economic challenges impacting the real estate landscape

Resources mentioned in this episode
RAM Capital Fund

If you’re interested in learning more about investment opportunities and multifamily funds, just contact Randal at podcast@agentsbuildingcashflow.com. 

To connect with Randal and learn more about passive investing, visit www.ridgelineig.com and follow our social media pages below!

• Ridgeline Investment Group on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ridgelineig/ 
• Agents Building Cashflow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/agentsbuildingcashflow
• Subscribe to our YouTube channel: @agentsbuildingcashflow
• Send us an email: rm@ridgelineig.com