REI Freedom

Hosted by Jeremy & Shelly Beland

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119

Latest episode

Feb 2026

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EN-US

About the show

🎙️🏠 Welcome to our podcast, where we are dedicated to helping you develop the essential skills and knowledge needed to excel in acquisition management. Whether you are a seasoned professional or just starting out, our goal is to provide you with valuable insights and practical tips that will propel you towards becoming the best you can be in the world of off-market property acquisitions. In each episode, we will take a deep dive into various aspects of acquiring off-market properties. We will explore the strategies and techniques that successful investors employ to identify, analyze, negotiate, and secure off-market deals. From finding hidden gems to building strong relationships with property owners, we will cover it all. Our expert guests, including experienced real estate investors, acquisition managers, and industry professionals, will share their firsthand experiences and valuable advice. They will reveal the secrets behind their successful off-market acquisitions and provide you with actionable steps to implement in your own ventures. Our aim is to equip you with the tools and knowledge needed to navigate the complex world of off-market property acquisitions. By tuning in to our podcast, you will gain a competitive edge in the industry. Whether you are an individual investor, part of a team, or even a real estate agency, the skills and insights shared on our show will help you maximize your success in acquiring off-market properties. So, join us on this exciting journey as we explore the fascinating world of acquisition management. Get ready to learn, grow, and become the best version of yourself when it comes to off-market property acquisitions. Stay tuned for our upcoming episodes packed with valuable information and inspiring stories. Don't miss out on this opportunity to become a true master in the field!

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February 11, 2026Episode 11930 min

Are You Structuring Sub-To Deals Safely, Legally, and Ethically?

Are you truly protecting yourself when you take over someone’s mortgage? Are your disclosures clear? Is your paperwork defensible? And if a lender enforced the due-on-sale clause tomorrow, would your deal survive?In this fan-favorite replay of the REI Freedom Podcast, host Jeremy Beland sits down with creative finance expert Caleb Christopher to break down what most investors misunderstand about subject-to transactions.Sub-to deals can be powerful wealth-building tools. But when structured improperly, they can expose investors to legal risk, damaged reputations, and long-term financial consequences. Caleb pulls back the curtain on the most common mistakes investors make and explains how to structure creative financing deals the right way safely, legally, and ethically.Caleb Christopher is the founder of Creative TC, DOS Guard, and Creative Title. After becoming an accidental landlord and discovering creative finance through Rich Dad Poor Dad, Caleb recognized a dangerous gap in the industry: plenty of education on getting deals, but very little guidance on closing them correctly.In this episode, he shares practical strategies for evaluating sub-to opportunities, protecting sellers, mitigating due-on-sale risk, and building a professional team that ensures your deals hold up long-term.Key Topics CoveredHow Caleb transitioned from accidental landlord to creative finance specialistWhat makes a strong sub-to candidate, including equity position and seller flexibilityRed flags investors should avoid, especially negative equity and future mortgage plansThe dangers of “naked sub-to” deals without proper documentationWhy full transparency and early disclosures protect both partiesHow balloon payments can severely restrict exit strategiesUnderstanding the due-on-sale clause and how lenders enforce itWhy maintaining a positive seller relationship is critical post-closingBuilding a team that understands complex creative transactionsThe Reality of the Due-On-Sale ClauseThe due-on-sale clause is not theoretical. It can be enforced. Certain lenders are more aggressive than others, and when it happens, investors without a plan can find themselves in serious trouble.Caleb explains how proper structuring, seller communication, and services like DOS Guard can provide peace of mind and reduce exposure. The goal is not to avoid risk entirely, but to manage it responsibly.Common Investor MistakesTaking over payments without proper legal documentationFailing to understand the seller’s long-term housing goalsDisclosing risks too late in the processStructuring deals that limit resale optionsOperating without experienced transaction and legal supportCreative finance requires uncommon competence. Without it, you risk becoming the case study no one wants to be.Connect with Caleb ChristopherInstagram: @fcalebchristopher Creative TC: creative-tc.ioListen and SubscribeThis replay episode is packed with real-world lessons for investors, operators, and entrepreneurs who want to combine freedom, impact, and profitability.Subscribe, rate, and review the REI Freedom Podcast to stay connected with stories and strategies that help you build a life of freedom through real estate.

February 4, 2026Episode 11836 min

How Did Ian Lobas Build a 60+ Unit Caribbean Airbnb Business From the U.S.?

Fan-Favorite ReplayWhat if your next real estate move did not require relocating, quitting everything, or waiting for “perfect timing”? What if building an international business was less about luck and more about systems, leadership, and personal growth? And what if your biggest breakthrough came from thinking bigger than your comfort zone?In this fan-favorite replay of the REI Freedom Podcast, host Jeremy Beland sits down with Ian Lobas, a real estate investor, coach, and international short-term rental operator who built a thriving hospitality business in St. Martin, all while managing it remotely from Baltimore.Ian shares how he turned a bold vision into a fully integrated short-term rental operation with over 60 units in less than a year. From marketing and interior design to concierge services and construction, he reveals how building strong systems and the right team made international scaling possible.Ian Lobas went from running a high-performing real estate business in the U.S. to launching a full-service Airbnb and hospitality company in the Caribbean. Rather than relying on hype or shortcuts, he focused on operational excellence, personal development, and uncompromising standards.In this episode, Ian breaks down how he navigated market failures, cultural differences, and infrastructure challenges to build a predictable, high-performing operation in one of the most competitive tourism markets in the region.About Ian LobasIan Lobas is a real estate investor, coach, and fractional CEO and COO. After experiencing burnout as a top-producing agent, he shifted his focus toward building sustainable businesses rooted in systems, leadership, and personal growth. Today, he leads both a coaching company and a growing international short-term rental operation in St. Martin.Key Takeaways from This Episode-How Ian’s background in international shipping and sales shaped his business mindset.-Why personal development became the foundation of his success.-The turning point that led him from traditional real estate into coaching.-Why St. Martin became the ideal market for his hospitality vision.-How he built a trusted local team and scalable leadership structure.-The importance of process-driven operations in hospitality.-How multiple service verticals strengthened his business model.-Why reputation matters more in small international markets.-How Ian scaled to 60-plus units in under a year.Connect with Ian LobasInterested in collaborating, investing, or learning more about international short-term rentals?Email: ian@covecasa.coListen and SubscribeThis replay episode is packed with real-world lessons for investors, operators, and entrepreneurs who want to combine freedom, impact, and profitability.Subscribe, rate, and review the REI Freedom Podcast to stay connected with stories and strategies that help you build a life of freedom through real estate.

January 28, 2026Episode 11731 min

Can Self-Storage Help You Build Real Financial Freedom Without Burnout?

Fan-Favorite ReplayIs it really possible to build long-term wealth in real estate without being stuck on the transactional hamster wheel? Can you create consistent income without managing tenants, toilets, and endless repairs? And what does it take to walk away from corporate life and design a business around freedom instead of stress?In this fan-favorite replay of the REI Freedom Podcast, host Jeremy Beland sits down with Alex Pardo to revisit his journey from corporate finance to self-storage investing. Alex shares how one early deal changed his trajectory, why he pivoted away from wholesaling, and how self-storage became the foundation of his semi-passive real estate portfolio.From navigating early losses to building systems that support long-term growth, Alex offers a transparent look at what it really takes to succeed in commercial real estate.Meet Alex PardoAlex Pardo is a self-storage investor, entrepreneur, and coach with nearly two decades of experience in real estate. After leaving his position at General Electric, he built a successful investing business through wholesaling, fix-and-flips, and eventually self-storage acquisitions. Today, Alex owns and operates multiple storage facilities and helps investors transition into commercial real estate through his coaching programs.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy Alex chose to leave corporate America and pursue real estate full-timeHow one early short sale helped build confidence and momentumThe role of coaching and mentorship in avoiding costly mistakesWhy Alex shifted from wholesaling to self-storage in 2019The advantages of storage facilities over traditional rentalsHow to find off-market self-storage deals in secondary and rural marketsStrategies for working with retiring mom-and-pop ownersHow Alex structures deals using seller financing, private money, and partnershipsWhy you do not need large amounts of personal capital to get startedHow mindset and consistency drive long-term successAlex’s Coaching and ResourcesAlex offers a hands-on coaching program designed to help investors acquire their first storage facility within six to twelve months. His approach focuses on education, execution, and sustainable growth.Apply here: storagewins.com/apply YouTube: youtube.com/alexpardoIf Alex’s story inspired you and you’re ready to create more time and financial freedom through real estate, book a discovery call with Jeremy and the REI Freedom team at:reifreedom.com/applyIf you enjoyed this replay episode, please subscribe, rate, and review the REI Freedom Podcast, and share it with someone ready to build wealth the right way.

January 21, 2026Episode 11624 min

What Does It Really Take to Scale to 120 Units Without Syndicating?

What does real estate growth look like when you remove the hype, the massive syndications, and the pressure to scale fast at all costs? Is it possible to build a large portfolio, stay in control, and still protect your time and family life? In this replay of Episode 59, we revisit a grounded, highly practical conversation that answers those questions head-on.In this episode of the REI Freedom Podcast, host Jeremy Beland sits down with Grant Francke, a full-time real estate investor from Lincoln, Nebraska, who built a 120-unit portfolio in under nine years. Grant shares how he transitioned from working as a railroad conductor to becoming a disciplined multifamily investor by focusing on off-market acquisitions, strong relationships, and deals that cash flow from day one.Rather than pursuing large syndications, Grant chose a slower, more intentional path. He scaled by acquiring small multifamily properties and packages, partnering only with close family and friends, and self-managing his portfolio to maintain control and efficiency. His approach shows what’s possible when operations, consistency, and reputation come first.Episode HighlightsHow Grant started investing in 2016 while working full-time as a railroad conductorHis early deals, including a duplex and a seller-financed package of five housesLeaving his W-2 job in 2019 to focus on real estate full-timeWhy he focuses on small multifamily properties instead of large syndicationsScaling to 120 units across Lincoln and surrounding communitiesAveraging roughly 15 units per year through steady, repeatable acquisitionsHis off-market strategy using 20 to 25 highly targeted letters per campaignHow relationship building and referrals led to large portfolio acquisitionsWhy Grant only buys properties that cash flow from day onePartnering with family and friends instead of outside investorsSelf-managing all 120 units and using a virtual assistant for tenant-facing tasksStrict tenant screening standards and long-term thinkingWhy Nebraska’s landlord-friendly environment supports his strategyHow Grant defines success through time freedom, family presence, and legacyKey TakeawaysYou do not need large syndications to build a sizable real estate portfolioRelationship-driven off-market deals create consistent opportunitiesTaking action on the first deal is the hardest and most important stepFewer, more targeted marketing efforts outperform mass outreachCash flow must work from day one, not on future assumptionsTime freedom is often more valuable than chasing unit countAbout Grant FranckeGrant Francke is a full-time real estate investor and author based in Lincoln, Nebraska. He built a 120-unit portfolio in under nine years by focusing on off-market acquisitions, disciplined underwriting, and self-management. Grant is the author of The Unlikely Investor and serves as an advisor in Brandon Turner’s First Deal coaching program.Connect with Grant FranckeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/grant.francke/ Book: The Unlikely Investor (available on Amazon) Coaching and resources: https://firstdeal.comReady to Take the Next StepIf you want to learn how to find off-market deals and build a portfolio that supports your lifestyle, book a discovery call with Jeremy and the REI Freedom team at: https://reifreedom.com/apply/If you enjoyed this replay episode, please subscribe, rate, and review the REI Freedom Podcast, and share it with someone who wants to scale real estate without losing control of their time.

January 14, 2026Episode 11532 min

How Michael Ketchen Built a $100M Real Estate Portfolio Without Playing the Guru Game

How does a former high school administrator go on to control more than $100 million in real estate across eight states in less than a decade? And what happens when you focus on operations instead of hype? In this episode of REI Freedom, Jeremy Beland sits down with New Hampshire real estate investor Michael Ketchen to break down the real mechanics behind scaling multifamily properties, self-managing remotely, and surviving the post-2022 syndication shakeout.Michael shares a candid behind-the-scenes look at what actually creates wealth in real estate, efficiency, disciplined underwriting, and solving problems others avoid.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeFrom Educator to Investor: How Michael transitioned from school administration to full-time real estate in just eight yearsScaling to $100M+: Completing 25+ full-cycle deals across multifamily and short-term rentalsThe Power of Self-Management: Why Michael self-manages all properties remotely and how it boosts NOI by 12–14%Operations Over Hype: How a 5% NOI improvement can create millions in portfolio valueMultifamily Buy Box Strategy: Landlord-friendly states, population growth, and strong economic driversFinding Deeply Discounted Deals: Networking, brokers, direct-to-seller strategies, and solving hard problemsSyndication Reality Check: Red flags investors should watch for and questions to ask before investingShort-Term Rental Case Studies: Beach houses, luxury STRs, and creative deal structuresMindset & Mentorship: Why Michael invests heavily in masterminds and believes proximity accelerates growthConnect with Michael KetchenInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelketchen/YouTube: https://youtu.be/FS4bN7zlCukLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-ketchen-68b202201/Ready to Take the Next StepAre you ready to unlock the potential of real estate investing and learn from operators who are actually in the game Subscribe to the REI Freedom Podcast for real world strategies from top experts like Michael Ketchen Don’t forget to leave a review and share this episode with someone serious about building wealth through real estateIf Michael Ketchen’s story inspired you and you are ready to take your first step toward financial freedom book a discovery call with Jeremy Beland and the REI Freedom team Visit reifreedom.com apply to start your journey today With the right mindset strategies and persistence REI freedom is possible

January 7, 2026Episode 11425 min

Is Note Investing the Smarter Path to Long-Term Real Estate Wealth?

What if building real estate wealth did not require managing tenants, handling maintenance calls, or chasing appreciation in unpredictable markets? What if consistent cash flow could come from owning the paper behind real estate instead of the property itself? And what if being the bank was actually simpler and more scalable than being the landlord? In this episode, we explore whether note investing offers a smarter, more efficient path to long-term wealth.In this episode of the REI Freedom Podcast, host Jeremy Beland sits down with Eddie Speed, founder of Note School and Colonial. With more than 40 years of experience and over 50,000 discounted notes purchased, Eddie breaks down how note investing works, why it produces strong cash flow with fewer headaches than traditional rentals, and how investors can use this strategy to build sustainable wealth.Throughout the conversation, Eddie explains the fundamentals of note investing, compares notes to rental properties using real numbers, and shares proven systems for getting started without overextending yourself. This episode offers a fresh perspective for investors who want predictable income, scalability, and a more passive approach to real estate.Key Topics CoveredWhat note investing is and how it differs from traditional real estate ownershipBecoming the bank instead of the landlordLong-term notes versus short-term hard money lendingNotes compared to rental properties using real-world numbersHow to get started in note investing without overextendingRecapitalization strategies to keep buying more notesAverage note payoff timelines versus original loan termsRisk management through conservative underwriting and equity cushionsHow foreclosure risk is reduced through proper asset selectionWhy note investing works well in today’s market environmentResources MentionedNote School Website: noteschool.com/freedomSubscribe to the REI Freedom Podcast for more conversations on building financial freedom through smarter real estate strategies. Follow @REIFreedom on social media and visit reifreedom.com for coaching programs and additional resources.

December 31, 2025Episode 11327 min

How Can Self-Directed IRAs Unlock Real Estate Wealth?

Fan Favorite ReplayWhat if your retirement account could do more than sit in the stock market? What if it could help you flip properties, earn passive income, or fund private loans backed by real estate? And what if the key to accelerating your wealth was already in an IRA or old 401(k) you control? This fan-favorite episode returns by popular demand to break down how self-directed IRAs really work and how investors use them strategically to build long-term financial freedom.In this fan-favorite replay of the REI Freedom Podcast, host Jeremy Beland sits down with Karen Hall, founder and CEO of U Direct IRA Services, to demystify self-directed IRAs and their role in real estate investing. Karen shares her unconventional journey from radio announcer to real estate and retirement expert, and explains how investors can use self-directed IRAs to fund deals, protect their retirement capital, and expand beyond traditional investments.Key Topics CoveredWhat a self-directed IRA is and how it differs from traditional IRAs and 401(k)sHow to set up and fund a self-directed IRA step by stepUsing self-directed IRAs for real estate, including flips, rentals, and private lendingCommon misconceptions and costly mistakes investors should avoidWhy due diligence and working with a knowledgeable account representative matterTax considerations such as UDFI and the use of non-recourse loansCreative ways to deploy smaller IRA balances effectivelyThe role of education, networking, and continuous learning in real estate successConnect with Karen HallWebsite: udirectira.comConnect With Us:Follow @REIFreedom on social media for updates and resourcesSubscribe, rate, and review the REI Freedom Podcast and help more investors find financial freedom

December 24, 2025Episode 11236 min

How Can Off-Market Deals Help You Scale Mobile Home Parks Faster?

What does it really take to walk away from a corporate job and build real freedom through real estate? Is scaling mobile home parks, self-storage, and RV parks actually possible without competing on the open market? And how do experienced investors consistently find deals others never see? If you’ve ever wondered whether off-market strategies are the missing piece between side hustling and full-time investing, this episode breaks it down.In this episode of the REI Freedom Podcast, hosts Shelly and Jeremy Beland sit down with Gabe Peterson, an off-market real estate investor and founder of the Real Estate Investing Club. Gabe shares his journey from corporate life to building a thriving real estate business focused on mobile home parks, self-storage facilities, and RV parks. He looks into the strategies, mindset shifts, and repeatable systems that helped him transition from working a 9-to-5 to full-time real estate success.What You’ll LearnHow Gabe transitioned from a corporate career into real estate investingThe opportunities and challenges of investing in mobile home parks, self-storage, and RV parksWhy off-market deals create less competition and bigger opportunitiesProven lead generation tactics for commercial real estate, including cold calling and mailersWhy consistent follow-up and seller rapport are critical to closing dealsHow seller financing works and why sellers agree to creative termsLessons learned from mistakes, including the importance of location and due diligencePractical advice for new investors on building marketing systems and taking imperfect actionConnect with Gabe PetersonLinktree: https://linktr.ee/gabepetersenIf you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and review the REI Freedom Podcast, and share it with a friend who’s ready to take the leap into real estate investing.

December 17, 2025Episode 11131 min

Can Short-Term Rentals Still Create Real Estate Freedom in Today’s Market?

What if real estate freedom did not mean owning more properties, but building a business that lets you work from anywhere in the world? In this episode of the REI Freedom Podcast, host Jeremy Beland sits down with Dan Rivers, founder of Synergy Stays, to unpack how focus, resilience, and specialization helped him scale a global short-term rental revenue management business while living abroad.Dan shares his journey from Brockton, Massachusetts, to Charleston, South Carolina, and now Portugal, explaining how he transitioned from property management into real estate investing in 2018. Along the way, he navigated market crashes, rising interest rates, and industry shifts by staying adaptable and committed to mastering one niche instead of chasing every opportunity.In this conversation, Jeremy and Dan dive into what it really takes to succeed in today’s short-term rental landscape, and why professional revenue management has become essential for investors who want to scale sustainably.You will hear Dan break down:• How resilience and persistence helped him push through market downturns, COVID disruptions, and changing regulations • Why proximity to the right people and strong networking accelerated his early success in real estate • Lessons from Dan’s first deals renovating affordable properties in North Charleston • The shift from doing everything in real estate to focusing on one core skill that scales • How Synergy Stays evolved from property management into short-term rental revenue management • Managing more than 300 short-term rental units across nine countries • Why professional photography, listing optimization, and amenities matter more than ever • Using data, analytics, and AB testing to improve occupancy and revenue per available room • Common challenges in short-term rentals, including competition, guest expectations, and regulations • Who benefits most from revenue management services and who is not a good fit • Market trends impacting Airbnb hosts and why guest experience and niche positioning are critical • The future of short-term rentals, including direct bookings and increased professionalismDan also shares his definition of REI freedom, which goes far beyond money. For him, it is about flexibility, family time, and the ability to live and work on his own terms, from anywhere in the world.If you are an investor looking to optimize your short-term rentals, scale without burning out, or build a location-independent real estate business, this episode delivers practical insights and real-world strategies you can apply right now.Resources and Links:Synergy Stays: https://synergystayslocal.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/SynergyStays/ Free guide: https://reifreedom.com/gift REI Freedom Podcast: https://reifreedom.com Follow REI Freedom: @REIFreedomIf you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and review the REI Freedom Podcast. Share it with someone who wants to build real estate freedom through focus, resilience, and smart strategy.

December 10, 2025Episode 11035 min

What’s the One Property That Changed Everything for Jake & Nick?

What if one deal had the power to completely shift your real estate trajectory? In this replay episode, one of our most downloaded conversations, we revisit the inspiring journey of Jacob LaPointe and Nicholas Pelletier, two longtime friends who turned a shared passion into a thriving real estate business.Jake, known as “The Beard,” and Nick, a dedicated firefighter, walk us through how casual catch-ups gradually became strategic sessions that led to their first major investment win. Starting with limited funds but huge determination, they pushed through challenges, learned on the fly, and built momentum through grit, resourcefulness, and teamwork.In this episode, you’ll hear how they used creativity and courage to turn tight budgets into real opportunities, from value-add projects to navigating tax foreclosures. Their story is a powerful reminder that taking action, imperfect action, is often the key to unlocking a new level in real estate.Whether you’re new to investing or looking for that spark to scale, this episode is packed with practical lessons you can apply immediately.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeHow one pivotal property forced a mindset shift and changed the direction of their businessThe early struggles of getting started with limited cashTheir approach to converting and adding value to multi-family propertiesHow they navigated tax foreclosures without letting fear stop themWhy networking and relationships accelerated their growthHow taking massive imperfect action can outweigh perfect planningPractical steps you can use to move faster in your own real estate journeyConnect with Jacob & NickEmail: neppropertiesllc@gmail.com Phone: 9978 9956936Connect with UsWebsite: https://reifreedom.com/ Facebook Group: https://web.facebook.com/groups/795700988329071