Deeds in the Desert

Hosted by Ignite Funding

Business Investing Education

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Latest episode

Jan 2026

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EN-US

About the show

DEEDS IN THE DESERT is all things Real Estate Investing. Whether you are a savvy investor or just starting out, we will have something for everyone. Learn how to create a passive income stream that works for you, so you have the time to do the things you love. Ignite Funding, LLC | NVMBL #311 | AZ CMB-0932150 | Money invested through a mortgage broker is not guaranteed to earn any interest and is not insured. Prior to investing, investors must be provided applicable disclosure documents.

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60 recent

January 16, 202626 min

What Borrowers Look for in a Private Lending Partner

In this episode of Deeds in the Desert, Ignite Funding’s underwriting team breaks down what truly matters to borrowers seeking private capital: certainty to close, speed, responsiveness, transparency, and real value beyond just money. We also dive deep into how private lenders evaluate deals, why some borrowers get funded repeatedly, and why others never make it past the first call. You’ll learn: Why certainty to close is often more important than rate How responsiveness and communication can make or break a deal What underwriters really look for in new vs. repeat borrowers Why Ignite Funding views itself as “expensive debt but cheap equity” How strong borrower–lender relationships protect both investors and developers Whether you’re a borrower looking for capital or an investor seeking fixed-income opportunities, this episode provides a behind-the-scenes look at how private lending really works. Open an Investor Account: Get started with passive, fixed-income real estate opportunities https://ignitefunding.com Schedule a Free Consultation: Talk directly with our team about investing or funding your next deal (702) 739-9053 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and turn on notifications for more episodes of Deeds in the Desert. #PrivateLending #RealEstateInvesting #PrivateMoney #RealEstateFinance #HardMoneyLoans #CommercialRealEstate #RealEstateDevelopment #PassiveIncome #FixedIncomeInvesting #DeedsInTheDesert #IgniteFunding *Disclaimer* Ignite Funding, LLC | 6700 Via Austi Parkway, Suite 300, Las Vegas, NV 89119 | P 702.739.9053 | M 702.919.4281 | F 702.922.6700 | NVMBL #311 | AZ CMB-0932150 | Money invested through a mortgage broker is not guaranteed to earn any interest and is not insured. Prior to investing, investors must be provided applicable disclosure documents.

January 1, 202644 min

Mother & Son Talk Trust Deed Investing: A Family Conversation with Ignite Funding

In this episode of Deeds in the Desert, Carrie Cook, President of Ignite Funding, sits down with her son Hunter for a rare and insightful conversation about trust deed investing, real estate lending, risk management, investor confidence, and the disciplined approach that has guided Ignite Funding for nearly two decades. Hunter brings a fresh generational perspective, while Carrie shares real-world experience from 20 years in the lending industry — highlighting how Ignite Funding supports both borrowers and investors through transparent underwriting, strong asset-backed security, and responsible lending strategies. If you’re curious about how trust deed investing works, how investors earn passive income through real estate notes, and what truly separates Ignite Funding’s process from traditional real estate investing, this episode delivers clarity, education, and an authentic behind-the-scenes look at the business. Ready to Take the Next Step? Open an account with Ignite Funding: https://ignitefunding.com/get-started-today/ Schedule a consultation with our investment team: https://lp.ignitefunding.com/schedule-consultation-2/ #IgniteFunding #DeedsInTheDesert #TrustDeedInvesting #PrivateLending #PassiveIncome #RealEstateInvesting #AlternativeInvesting *Disclaimer* Ignite Funding, LLC | 6700 Via Austi Parkway, Suite 300, Las Vegas, NV 89119 | P 702.739.9053 | M 702.919.4281 | F 702.922.6700 | NVMBL #311 | AZ CMB-0932150 | Money invested through a mortgage broker is not guaranteed to earn any interest and is not insured. Prior to investing, investors must be provided applicable disclosure documents.

December 18, 202522 min

Texas Real Estate Investing Explained: Build-to-Rent Cash Flow & Tax Advantages

Texas continues to dominate as one of the strongest real estate markets in the U.S.—and in this episode of Deeds in the Desert, we break down why. Host Pat Vassar sits down with Addison Thom, Owner-Operator of SDIRA Wealth, to unpack how build-to-rent projects across Texas are delivering consistent cash flow, strong rent growth, and powerful tax advantages for real estate investors. From population migration and job growth to scalable construction timelines and accelerated depreciation strategies, this conversation provides a behind-the-scenes look at how institutional-level real estate gets built—and financed. If you’re looking to diversify beyond Wall Street and deploy capital into real estate-backed opportunities, this episode is for you. Ready to invest? Open an investor account with Ignite Funding: https://ignitefunding.com Want to learn more first? Schedule a free investor consultation with our team today.

December 4, 20251 hr 1 min

Why RIAs Choose Ignite Funding: Income, Stability & Real Diversification: Featuring Lance Howard

In this episode of Deeds In The Desert, Carrie Cook (President of Ignite Funding) sits down with Registered Investment Advisor Lance Howard and he shares how he blends Trust Deed investing, indexed annuities, and long-term income planning to help retirees navigate market volatility and create predictable retirement income. This conversation covers retirement risk management, 401(k) rollover planning, collateralized real estate loans, and how First Trust Deeds can support a balanced income strategy. Lance explains why he personally invests in Ignite Funding loans before introducing them to clients, how collateral reduces downside exposure compared to traditional market investments, and why diversification across asset classes, borrowers, and locations matters for long-term capital preservation. Note: All investments carry risk, including loss of principal. Trust Deed investing is not guaranteed, and past performance does not ensure future results. Investors should review offering documents, consult professionals, and evaluate suitability before investing. Ready to diversify your portfolio? Open an account with Ignite Funding today: IgniteFunding.com Schedule a free investor consultation: (702) 761-0000 to schedule a free investor consultation. Learn more about Lance Howard and Howard Financial:Website: LanceHowardFinancial.comPhone: (661) 322.5192Email: lh@lancehowardfinancial.com00:00 – Real Estate Income Investing: Welcome to Deeds in the Desert 00:43 – Financial Advisor Career Story: How Lance Started His Career 05:55 – Retirement Risk Management: How Advisors Guide Clients Through Volatility 10:17 – Indexed Annuities Explained: Protecting Retirement Income 14:10 – 401(k) Rollover Planning: What Happens When Retirees Seek Help 19:36 – Alternative Investments for Retirees: Why RIAs Choose Ignite Funding 23:25 – Passive Income Strategy: How to Give Every Dollar a “Job” 26:24 – Trust Deed Investing Explained: How Ignite Funding Protects Investors 34:12 – 10% Fixed Income Investing: Managing Client Preferences & Diversification 46:20 – Real Estate Default Solutions: How Advisors Explain Risk & Recovery Don’t forget to Like, Comment, and Subscribe so you never miss an episode of Deeds In The Desert! #IgniteFunding #DeedsInTheDesert #HowardFinancial #PassiveIncome #RealEstateInvesting #TrustDeeds #FinancialAdvisor #RetirementIncome #AlternativeInvestments #FixedIncome

November 20, 202545 min

Ignite Funding’s Legal Mind Safeguarding Your Investment Portfolio

In this episode of Deeds in the Desert, we introduce you to John, Ignite Funding’s new Chief Legal Officer, and pull back the curtain on how having in-house counsel elevates investor protection, accelerates default resolutions, and improves communication throughout the entire lifecycle of your trust deed investments. John shares what he’s already changed inside Ignite Funding—from negotiating down legal bills by over $10,000 to strengthening our foreclosure strategy, tightening loan documentation, improving state-by-state compliance, and speeding up default turnaround times so investor capital is protected and returned as efficiently as possible. If you’ve ever wondered how Ignite Funding keeps defaults low, navigates complex cases, or protects you in multiple states—this episode gives you the full behind-the-scenes look. Ready to Build Passive Income Secured by Real Estate? Open an account with Ignite Funding: https://www.ignitefunding.com #IgniteFunding #DeedsInTheDesert #PrivateLending #RealEstateInvesting #TrustDeeds #PassiveIncome #FixedIncomeInvesting #Investing2025 #RealEstateNews #AlternativeInvestments #LegalInsights #InHouseCounsel #ProtectYourCapital Ignite Funding, LLC | 6700 Via Austi Parkway, Suite 300, Las Vegas, NV 89119 | P 702.739.9053 | M 702.919.4281 | F 702.922.6700 | NVMBL #311 | AZ CMB-0932150 | Money invested through a mortgage broker is not guaranteed to earn any interest and is not insured. Prior to investing, investors must be provided applicable disclosure documents.

November 6, 202530 min

Construction Trends and Sustainability, How Builders are Adapting in 2025

Discover how construction and homebuilding have evolved over the past two decades with Ryan Lantz of Lokal Homes. In this episode, host Pat Vassar and Ryan discuss the changing landscape of building codes, sustainability mandates, post-COVID homebuyer preferences, and how volatility in materials and tariffs are reshaping pricing strategies. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or new to real estate, you’ll gain insights into how builders are adapting to innovation, sustainability, and affordability in today’s market. Ready to start investing in real estate-backed opportunities? Open an account today at ignitefunding.com Or schedule a consultation at (702) 739-9053 Stay informed — subscribe to Deeds in the Desert for more insider perspectives from builders, developers, and investors! Ignite Funding, LLC | 6700 Via Austi Parkway, Suite 300, Las Vegas, NV 89119 | P 702.739.9053 | M 702.919.4281 | F 702.922.6700 | NVMBL #311 | AZ CMB-0932150 | Money invested through a mortgage broker is not guaranteed to earn any interest and is not insured. Prior to investing, investors must be provided applicable disclosure documents.

October 23, 202514 min

Meet the Borrower: Lokal Homes, From Finished Lots to Record Margins

In this episode of Deeds in the Desert, we sit down with Ryan Lantz, Co-Owner of Lokal Homes, to discuss how this Colorado-based builder navigates a changing housing market while continuing to deliver strong returns. Discover how Lokal Homes adapted its strategy—from developing its own land to purchasing finished lots—and why smart partnerships like those with Ignite Funding continue to fuel their success. Ryan walks us through key projects like Jackson Creek, Victory Ridge, and Virginia Village, revealing how Lokal’s community-first philosophy and nimble business model keep them thriving amid rising rates and shifting buyer behavior. #DeedsInTheDesert #IgniteFunding #RealEstateInvesting #PassiveIncome #TrustDeeds #AlternativeInvestments #LokalHomes #ColoradoRealEstate #HomeBuilding #RealEstateMarket #InvestInRealEstate #FixedIncomeInvesting #IgniteYourPortfolio #PrivateLending Ignite Funding, LLC | 6700 Via Austi Parkway, Suite 300, Las Vegas, NV 89119 | P 702.739.9053 | M 702.919.4281 | F 702.922.6700 | NVMBL #311 | AZ CMB-0932150 | Money invested through a mortgage broker is not guaranteed to earn any interest and is not insured. Prior to investing, investors must be provided applicable disclosure documents.

October 9, 202516 min

Underwriting Then vs. Now: Lessons From 2008 For Today's Investors

In this episode of Deeds In The Desert, Carrie and Pat take a look back at what went down in 2008 — and how those lessons shaped the way Ignite Funding evaluates deals today. Spoiler alert: sexy deals don’t last — but solid underwriting does. ️ Whether you're an experienced trust deed investor or just learning about passive income through real estate-backed loans, this one’s for you! Topics include: How underwriting has evolved, not changed.Why simplicity beats flash.The power of diversification.What really makes a strong borrower.Ready to diversify your portfolio? Open an account with Ignite Funding today: https://www.ignitefunding.com Schedule a free investor consultation: (702) 761-0000 to schedule a free investor consultation. Don’t forget to Like, Comment, and Subscribe so you never miss an episode of Deeds In The Desert! *Disclaimer* Ignite Funding, LLC | 6700 Via Austi Parkway, Suite 300, Las Vegas, NV 89119 | P 702.739.9053 | M 702.919.4281 | F 702.922.6700 | NVMBL #311 | AZ CMB-0932150 | Money invested through a mortgage broker is not guaranteed to earn any interest and is not insured. Prior to investing, investors must be provided applicable disclosure documents.

September 25, 202533 min

Primary vs. Tertiary Markets: What Investors Need to Know

In this episode of Deeds in the Desert, Pat Vassar (Director of Underwriting) and Tjaden Durham (Junior Underwriter) break down the golden rule of real estate—location, location, location—and how it impacts valuation for both borrowers and investors. We cover: ✅ Macro factors like migration, employment drivers, and government investment ✅ Primary, secondary, tertiary, and emerging markets explained ✅ How micro-level details like submarkets, street corners, and permitting shape valuation ✅ Strategies for investors to diversify and reduce risk Whether you’re a seasoned investor or just starting your passive income journey, this episode will show you how Ignite Funding evaluates deals to keep risk low while maintaining strong returns. Ready to diversify your portfolio? Open an account with Ignite Funding today. Want personalized guidance? Call us at (702) 761-0000 to schedule a free investor consultation. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more insights into trust deed investing! Disclaimer* Ignite Funding, LLC | 6700 Via Austi Parkway, Suite 300, Las Vegas, NV 89119 | P 702.739.9053 | M 702.919.4281 | F 702.922.6700 | NVMBL #311 | AZ CMB-0932150 | Money invested through a mortgage broker is not guaranteed to earn any interest and is not insured. Prior to investing, investors must be provided applicable disclosure documents.

September 11, 202525 min

The Truth About Loan-to-Value & Appraisals in Real Estate Investing

In this episode of Deeds in the Desert, Carrie and Pat dig into the often misunderstood world of appraisals—when they’re useful, when they fail, and why Ignite Funding leans on Broker Price Opinions (BPOs) and strong internal underwriting instead. What you’ll learn: Why appraisals are often inflated How BPOs provide real boots-on-the-ground insight The role of underwriting and loan-to-value ratios in protecting investors Why Ignite Funding has funded over $2.3 billion in trust deed investments while prioritizing investor protection Ready to put your money to work in real estate-backed investments? https://ignitefunding.com/get-started-today/ Don’t forget to Like, Comment, and Follow so you never miss an episode of Deeds in the Desert! #RealEstateInvesting #DeedsInTheDesert #TrustDeeds #IgniteFunding #AlternativeInvestments #PassiveIncome #PrivateLending #RealEstateLoans #RealEstateEducation #FinancialFreedom #WealthBuilding #SmartInvesting #Investors #CashFlow #RealEstateTips #InvestmentStrategy #LoanToValue #Investing101 #FinancePodcast #MoneyTalks #Finance #Money #Investing #Wealth #Business #Entrepreneur #SideHustle #Podcast #Motivation #Success *Disclaimer* Ignite Funding, LLC | 6700 Via Austi Parkway, Suite 300, Las Vegas, NV 89119 | P 702.739.9053 | M 702.919.4281 | F 702.922.6700 | NVMBL #311 | AZ CMB-0932150 | Money invested through a mortgage broker is not guaranteed to earn any interest and is not insured. Prior to investing, investors must be provided applicable disclosure documents.