MB493: 2025 Q4 Market Outlook

In this special market outlook session, Michael Blank breaks down the current state of the multifamily investing landscape—and explains why Q4 2025 may present one of the best buying opportunities we've seen in over a decade.Despite high interest rates and ongoing fear in the media, Michael shares why the smart money is moving back into multifamily real estate, and how passive and active investors alike can take advantage of this rare window.He also makes a few big announcements—including a move into business acquisitions and real estate debt funds—designed to expand the wealth-building options available to his investor community.If you're wondering whether to sit tight, double down, or make your first move—this is the clarity you're looking for.Key TakeawaysMultifamily prices are still 20–40% below their 2022 peakInstitutional buyers are actively acquiring distressed assetsMarket fear has created undervalued buying opportunitiesValuations remain well below replacement costRising leverage is pushing prices back upLoan proceeds are increasing from 65% to 75% LTVLenders are re-entering the market with more aggressive termsHigher leverage means stronger returns with less equity requiredDemand for rental housing remains strongHomeownership is 44% more expensive than rentingThe U.S. faces a multi-million-unit housing shortageNew construction activity has slowed significantlyRisk-adjusted returns are stronger than in 2022Interest rates are stabilizing, lowering market uncertaintyDeals now use fixed-rate debt and more conservative underwritingInvestors are getting the same returns with significantly less riskThe Passive Income Calculator helps investors plan their freedomAllows modeling based on actual investment inputsTracks projected growth in passive income and net worthNo opt-in required—download and start planning immediatelyNew opportunities are coming from TMBExpansion into real estate debt funds and business acquisitionsTargeting cash-flowing, recession-resistant businessesDesigned to offer passive investors more options for building wealthConnect with MichaelFacebookInstagramYouTubeTikTokResourcesTheFreedomPodcast.com&nbsp;Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of AdvisorsExplore Michael’s Mentoring ProgramJoin the Nighthawk Equity Investor ClubReview the Podcast on Apple Podcasts<a href="https://themichaelblank.com/syndicated-deal-analyzer/"...

Most people raising capital are doing it completely wrong. They focus on flashy decks, mass emails, and trying to “look big”—but investors can smell the inauthenticity from a mile away.Jeremy Dyer took a different approach.&nbsp; He raised $50M in under 2 years by leading with trust, transparency, and one-on-one conversations—all while holding down a full-time tech sales job and raising four kids.In this episode, Michael Blank uncovers the real strategies behind Jeremy’s rise from passive investor to powerhouse capital raiser. You’ll learn how he built a loyal investor base, scaled legally with fund-to-fund models, and is now buying deals at massive discounts while others sit on the sidelines. If you think capital raising is about money—it’s not. It’s about people.Head over to https://thefreedompodcast.com/500 to submit for a chance to win free merch and be highlighted in episode 500!!!Key TakeawaysWhy LP Experience Makes You a Better SyndicatorJeremy invested in over 40 syndications before ever raising a dollar.Seeing wins and losses helped him understand what real investors care about.He built empathy—and that changed everything.Capital Raising is Human, Not CorporateHis $50M didn’t come from ads—it came from deep personal conversations.Jeremy rebranded himself organically, one investor at a time.Sales background helped, but being authentic mattered more.How to Stand Out in a Sea of NoiseHe personally checks in with 20 investors every week.Following up on personal details (like a kid’s birthday) beats “just checking in” emails.Raising capital is about trust—not timing.The Right Way to Raise Capital for OthersJeremy uses fund-to-fund structures to stay compliant.He partners with operators without muddying incentives.Leveraging someone else’s backend frees him to focus on investors.Why Now Is a Massive Buying OpportunityJeremy’s acquiring deals at 30–40% below peak pricing.Distressed sellers and rising absorption = market bottom approaching.He’s not scared—he’s scaling.Connect with Jeremyhttps://www.startingpointcapital.com/&nbsp;LinkedInConnect with MichaelFacebookInstagramYouTubeTikTokResourcesTheFreedomPodcast.com&nbsp;Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of AdvisorsExplore Michael’s Mentoring ProgramJoin the Nighthawk...

Think you need 10 years of house flipping before you can go big in real estate? In this episode, Michael Blank sits down with Kent Ritter—Founder of Hudson Investing and host of Ritter on Real Estate—who scaled from solo operator to managing 2,000+ units and leading his own in-house property management firm. He didn’t wait for permission. He didn’t grind for a decade. He built systems, teams, and a killer culture that made scale inevitable.They unpack how he made the leap from flipping houses to running a real syndication business, and why skipping the “single-family hustle” may be the smartest move you can make. If you’re tired of thinking small, this episode will wake you up.Key TakeawaysWhy Single-Family Strategies Keep You StuckFlipping and landlording create income—but not freedom.Most "passive" single-family models are just high-paying jobs in disguise.You don’t need 10 years of grinding to go multifamily—you need a mindset shift.How to Build a Real Business (Not Just Do More Deals)Learn why Kent’s first plateau happened—and how he broke through it with the right partner.Discover how he scaled from 7 to 30 team members overnight by bringing property management in-house.Building culture and hiring to core values was Kent’s unfair advantage—here’s how to do it right.The Hidden Challenge of Raising CapitalWhy your friends and family won’t take you seriously at first—and what to do instead.The #1 perception you must change to consistently raise from private investors.You don’t need to know everyone—you just need to earn trust and prove expertise.Public-Private Partnerships: The Future of Development?How Hudson Investing makes new construction deals pencil in 2025 and beyond.Why cities are partnering with operators—and how that benefits your returns.The real risk difference between building new vs. buying value-add.Why the Midwest Is Still WinningKent breaks down why Midwest markets like Indianapolis and Fort Wayne are outperforming.Supply constraints = stronger rent growth and less risk—here’s where to look.Why Midwest deals may be boring… but boring works.Connect with Kenthttps://www.kentritter.com&nbsp;LinkedIn&nbsp;InstagramRitter on Real Estate PodcastYoutube &nbsp;Connect with MichaelFacebookInstagramYouTubeTikTokResourcesTheFreedomPodcast.com&nbsp;Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors<a...

Most people are playing the wrong money game—trading time for income, saving their way to retirement, and hoping it adds up by 65. In this episode, $300M multifamily investor Michael Blank shares the 10 money rules that helped him escape the rat race and build scalable, passive wealth through real estate. You’ll learn why flipping houses, single-family rentals, and even high-paying jobs won’t get you free—and what to focus on instead. If you’re serious about using multifamily to take control of your time and income, these rules will reset how you think about money forever.Head over to https://thefreedompodcast.com/500 to submit for a chance to win free merch and be highlighted in episode 500!!!Key TakeawaysMichael’s 10 Rules to Get Your Money Right, plus:What’s Really Broken About Retirement (and How to Fix It)Why the "work till you're 65" model no longer worksHow to reframe freedom so it actually feels fulfillingWhat to focus on instead of sitting on a beach foreverThe Math Behind Why You’re Still StuckHow traditional saving and investing keeps you locked in the rat raceWhat most six-figure earners misunderstand about wealthA smarter way to create income that doesn’t depend on your timeHow Most Real Estate Strategies Still Trap YouWhy flipping and single-family homes rarely lead to freedomThe real reason those deals feel like progress—but aren’tThe asset class that scales income and timeOne Number That Changes EverythingHow to figure out the income you need to quit your jobWhy your “rat race number” is more powerful than your net worthHow lowering it can make freedom come faster than you thinkHow to Build Wealth Without Using Your Own MoneyThe one mindset shift that unlocks serious scaleHow first-time investors raise $500K+—even with no experienceWhat kind of partnerships make it possible (and how to find them)Connect with MichaelFacebookInstagramYouTubeTikTokResourcesTheFreedomPodcast.com&nbsp;Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of AdvisorsExplore Michael’s Mentoring ProgramJoin the Nighthawk Equity Investor ClubReview the Podcast on Apple PodcastsSyndicated Deal Analyzer<a href="https://www.amazon.com/kindle-dbs/entity/author/B07GJRH6WL" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

If you’re serious about building wealth through real estate, you can’t afford to ignore the tax side. In this episode, CPA and active investor Sean Graham breaks down how cost segregation and bonus depreciation can save you (and your investors) tens or even hundreds of thousands in taxes—without changing your investment strategy. We cover how to use cost seg the right way, why most CPAs are doing it wrong, and what high earners need to know about the latest tax bill that could bring back 100% bonus depreciation. Whether you're a GP looking to raise smarter or an LP trying to boost after-tax returns, this episode is non-negotiable.Key TakeawaysWhat Cost Segregation Actually Does for YouReclassifies components of a property to accelerate depreciation over 5–15 years instead of 27.5 or 39.Allows investors to take massive deductions in year one—sometimes more than the cash they put into the deal.Creates phantom losses on K-1s that can offset other passive income or gains.Bonus Depreciation: What It Is, and Why It Matters100% bonus depreciation (introduced in 2017) allows investors to deduct qualifying property in year one.It's phased down since 2023 but may return under new legislation.Huge benefit for both LPs and GPs—particularly when paired with proper tax strategy.Using Cost Seg to Raise Capital More EffectivelySmart GPs use depreciation estimates during the raise to attract savvy investors.Many LPs care more about the tax benefits than the projected cash flow.For deals over $1M, cost seg should be factored into your underwriting and pitch.The “Look-Back” Strategy for Missed DepreciationAllows owners to retroactively apply cost segregation—even years after purchase.No need to amend prior tax returns; benefits can be taken in the current year.Especially powerful when strategic timing aligns with real estate professional status.Avoiding Common CPA MistakesMany CPAs aren’t familiar with real estate—leading to missed deductions and bad advice.Make sure your tax pro understands real estate-specific strategies like bonus depreciation, short-term rental loopholes, and REPS.Ask the right questions: Do they know how to handle depreciation recapture? Real estate professional status? IRA investing?How to Work with a Cost Segregation Firm the Right WayInvolve a cost seg firm early—before closing—so you can plan ahead and market benefits to investors.Studies typically cost $5K–$10K, but often result in six-figure tax savings.Smaller properties can use a “condensed engineering study” for reduced fees without sacrificing IRS compliance.Connect with SeanMavenCostSeg.com/Blank&nbsp;Connect with MichaelFacebookInstagramYouTubeTikTokResourcesTheFreedomPodcast.com&nbsp;Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)<a href="https://call.themichaelblank.com/clarity" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

Don’t forget to grab your free book! www.TheMichaelBlank.com/QRPMost people don’t know this—but you can invest your IRA or 401(k) in real estate instead of leaving it trapped in mutual funds. In this episode, I’m joined by Damion Lupo, founder of eQRP, to explain exactly how to unlock your retirement savings and use them to invest in apartments, storage, and more. We walk through the process step-by-step, dispel common myths, and show you how to avoid one of the biggest tax traps most investors don’t even see coming: UBIT. Whether you’re a passive investor or a GP raising capital, this is a must-listen.Key TakeawaysWhy Most Investors Don’t Know About ThisFinancial advisors don’t promote these options because they lose fees when you take control.Most investors have old 401(k)s or IRAs they’ve forgotten about—but those funds are eligible for self-direction.Online platforms like Schwab and Fidelity won’t show you the option to invest in real estate—you have to know to ask.How Self-Directed Accounts Actually WorkSelf-directed IRAs and solo 401(k)s give you full control—you can invest in real estate, crypto, gold, and more.The right setup gives you checkbook control and removes delays caused by custodians.Solo 401(k)s (like EQRPs) offer faster transactions, better flexibility, and fewer limitations than traditional IRAs.The UBIT Tax Trap—and How to Avoid ItUsing leverage in real estate deals inside a self-directed IRA can trigger UBIT—up to 40% in surprise taxes.Solo 401(k)s are exempt from UBIT, even in leveraged deals.You can convert from an IRA to a solo 401(k) before the deal sells to avoid the tax completely.Smart Strategies for Passive and Active InvestorsPassive investors can use these accounts to invest in syndications—earning tax-free or tax-deferred returns.Active investors (GPs) can raise more capital by educating others on how to invest through their retirement accounts.Damion’s team offers tools like books, webinars, and white-glove onboarding to help GPs guide investors through the process.Rules, Limits, and Legacy PlanningYou can’t use these accounts to buy personal assets, rehab your own property, or benefit directly from the investment.You can borrow up to $50K from your solo 401(k) for any reason and pay yourself back—with interest you choose.Setting up retirement accounts for parents or family members can create powerful tax-free legacy wealth.Roth solo 401(k)s allow real estate investing with leverage and no taxes on gains—making them the most powerful tool in the tax code.Connect with Damion LupoGET A FREE BOOK www.TheMichaelBlank.com/QRP&nbsp;&nbsp;Connect with MichaelFacebookInstagramYouTubeTikTokResourcesTheFreedomPodcast.com&nbsp;Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)<a...

In just a few years, Chad Schieler went from zero to over 700 units, ditching his high-paying W2 job to build a real syndication business from scratch. And he did it the hard way - solo, self-funded, and battle-tested.In this episode, Michael Blank sits down with Chad to unpack the gritty, unfiltered truth behind the rise of Focus Capital. They dive deep into the growing pains of scaling fast - partnership failures, capital raising fears, management misfires, and what it really takes to build a machine that lasts.If you think you’re ready to go full-time, this episode will either snap you out of it - or show you the way forward.Head over to https://thefreedompodcast.com/500 to submit for a chance to win free merch and be highlighted in episode 500!!!Key TakeawaysFrom W2 to 700+ Units: Why Chad Walked AwayBuilt a career in credit card processing—but hit a wall with taxes and purpose.Real estate started as a tax strategy and turned into a full-blown mission.Why chasing a deeper “why” made walking away from comfort worth it.The Truth About PartnershipsChad’s first syndicated deal looked perfect—until it nearly fell apart.Why being $4K short led him to take control of the entire business model.How too many “chiefs” in asset management created chaos—and the fix.Raising Capital When It Doesn’t Come NaturallyChad self-funded his first four deals—then hit a ceiling.The mental shift that helped him want to raise capital.How his best capital raiser came straight from his LP base.Scaling a Real Business (Without Burning Out)The struggle of hiring when revenue is lumpy—and what worked for Focus Capital.Why Chad hires 12 months ahead of revenue (and how it paid off).The non-negotiables that protect his time and family life.When Bigger is Actually EasierWhy 100+ unit properties are less stressful than small ones.The mistake most investors make with property management on smaller deals.How Chad’s early inspection and financing mistakes shaped his future deals.Connect with ChadVisit Focus [email protected]&nbsp;Connect with MichaelFacebookInstagramYouTubeTikTokResourcesTheFreedomPodcast.com&nbsp;Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of AdvisorsExplore Michael’s Mentoring ProgramJoin the Nighthawk Equity Investor Club<a...

This is one of the most tactical, eye-opening conversations we’ve had on market selection.&nbsp;Market selection can make or break your deal before you ever sign a contract. And right now, it’s not just about job growth or population trends anymore. In this episode, Michael Blank is joined by Andrew Meyers, Director of Acquisitions at Nighthawk Equity, to reveal what actually matters when choosing a market—and why most investors are looking at the wrong data.They break down the real drivers of rent growth, how to avoid buying in overheated metros, and what most people overlook that leads to underperforming deals. Plus, Andrew shares where Nighthawk is actively investing right now—and why.Key TakeawaysWhy Absorption Is the New KPIIt’s not just about growth—it’s about who’s filling those units.Learn why absorption is the single most overlooked factor in market due diligence.Discover how overbuilt markets tank B-class rents—and how to spot it before you buy.The Hidden Danger in “Hot Markets”Everyone loved Phoenix, Austin, and Atlanta—until rent drops hit hard.Understand why too much supply—even in fast-growing cities—kills performance.Learn how to read between the lines of growth headlines to spot real risk.How to Vet a Submarket Like a ProWhy Carroll County in Georgia is outperforming—but other Atlanta submarkets are crashing.Learn how zoning moratoriums, new construction trends, and crime rates quietly impact your bottom line.The exact reports and relationships you need to dig deeper than “market averages.”Where Nighthawk Is Buying Right NowAtlanta remains the #1 market due to scale, broker relationships, and submarket knowledge.Huntsville, AL is rising fast thanks to job growth and lower institutional competition.Hear what tertiary markets are on Nighthawk’s radar—and why most operators overlook them.Questions Every Passive Investor Should AskWho’s actually on the ground executing the business plan—and what relationships do they have?How well does the operator know this specific submarket (not just the metro)?Are their underwriting assumptions conservative—or fantasy spreadsheets?Learn the red flags that reveal when a sponsor is guessing instead of grounded.Connect with [email protected] the Nighthawk Equity Investor ClubConnect with MichaelFacebookInstagramYouTubeTikTokResourcesTheFreedomPodcast.com&nbsp;Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of AdvisorsExplore Michael’s Mentoring Program<a...

If you’re trying to scale your real estate business and still asking “How do I do this?”, you’re already falling behind. In this episode, Dr. Benjamin Hardy, author of 10X Is Easier Than 2X and The Science of Scaling, explains why success in multifamily hinges on shifting from "how" to "who." Michael and Ben dig into why most investors get stuck on the wrong path, and how committing to a bold vision — even without knowing the entire roadmap — is the real starting point. This episode is a must-listen for six-figure earners stuck in the single-family grind, trying to leap into commercial real estate and financial freedom.Key Takeaways1. Why Your 10-Year Plan Is Holding You BackMost investors set conservative goals based on their current capacity.A 10-year retirement plan with single-family homes isn't just slow — it’s likely broken.Reframe your goal: what would it take to become financially free in 12 months?When the timeframe compresses, the current strategy breaks — and that’s the point.2. The "Who Not How" Principle for Real Estate ScalingMultifamily investing isn’t about doing more — it’s about doing different.Instead of figuring out every step, ask “Who already knows how to do this?”The right team — mentors, capital partners, deal finders — collapses the learning curve.Syndication is the ultimate “who not how” structure: it’s a team sport.3. The Psychology of Commitment and BeliefYou won’t pursue what you don’t believe is possible.Small “micro-commitments” — like booking a strategy call or analyzing your first deal — build belief.Commit to the outcome (financial freedom), not the tactic (buying rentals).Reverse-engineering from your end goal leads to radically different decisions.4. Letting Go of the Path That Got You HereYour current strategy won’t get you to your next level.If you're clinging to rentals, flips, or even a high-paying job — you're on the wrong path.Letting go feels like quitting — but it's often the gateway to real progress.Ask: “What’s the opportunity cost of staying stuck?”5. Dr. Hardy’s Framework from The Science of ScalingIdentify your "floor" — the level where you're currently stuck — and why it's limiting.The most successful entrepreneurs redesign their systems, teams, and mindsets to scale.Scaling isn’t just a process — it’s a mindset of focusing on fewer things, done better.6. Multifamily as the Ideal Vehicle for ScalingSingle-family strategies are too slow, too small, and too dependent on your time.Multifamily offers higher leverage, scalable income, and team-based execution.The joint venture nature of syndication makes scaling practical, even if you’re starting out.The ability to raise money or partner with operators creates fast pathways to GP status.Connect with Dr. Benjamin HardyGet your free copy of the Science of Scaling audiobook&nbsp;https://scaling.com/&nbsp;Connect with MichaelFacebookInstagramYouTube<a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@themichaelblank" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

Small Bay Industrial (a.k.a. Flex Space) wasn’t on your radar—and for good reason.But what if the most overlooked asset class in commercial real estate turned out to be one of the most profitable? In this episode, Cody Payne, SVP at Colliers, breaks down why Small Bay Flex Industrial is quietly exploding—and why more active and passive investors are taking notice. Cody shares how he transitioned from leasing to owning, how syndication plays a role in the space, and why this niche might outperform retail and office over the next decade. Whether you’re looking to diversify your portfolio or find a less management-intensive asset, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.Key TakeawaysWhy Flex Industrial Is Heating UpThe asset class has evolved: from basic metal garages to glass-fronted multi-use spaces.Demand is surging as small businesses, gyms, e-commerce, and retail users flood in.Triple-net leases and low tenant improvement costs make this a capital-efficient play.How to Add Real Value with Small Bay AssetsSimple cosmetic upgrades (like storefront glass) can attract higher-paying tenants.Reconfiguring larger units into smaller ones can boost PSF rent.Strategic side yards and outdoor storage add ancillary income.Investor Returns: What to ExpectTypical stabilized deals offer 8–10% cash-on-cash returns with low capex.Value-add plays or development deals can push IRRs significantly higher.Cap rates range from 6–8%, depending on market and quality.Management Made SimpleTriple-net leases reduce headaches—tenants handle their own maintenance.Very few after-hours calls; most businesses operate during daytime hours.Easy to find third-party managers who understand this asset class.Syndication in Small Bay: A New FrontierCody’s early deals involved rolling his broker fee into equity—low-risk entry point.Syndication works well, especially for stabilized assets or light value-add.Investors like the stability, tenant diversity, and ease of management.Navigating the Market: Deal Flow and FinancingGood deal flow in most metros if your buy box is realistic (e.g., 7–8% cap).Financing is accessible: 25-year terms, 65% LTV, and ~6.25% interest.Banks used to avoid this asset class—now they’re chasing it.Connect with CodyWebsiteBook: Flex Space DominationLinkedInConnect with MichaelFacebookInstagramYouTubeTikTokResourcesTheFreedomPodcast.com&nbsp;Access the #1 FREE Apartment Investing Course (Apartments 101)Schedule a Free Strategy Session with Michael's Team of Advisors<a href="https://themichaelblank.com/mentor/" rel="noopener noreferrer"...