In this episode of The Real Estate Ride, I finally sit down with Chad Kusner, founder of Credit Repair Resources. We unpack everything from the misunderstood world of credit scoring to what actually works in credit repair—and why so many people get it wrong. Chad pulls back the curtain on how his team gets real results while staying fully compliant with both state and federal regulations.

We dig into why your credit score might drop when you pay off a debt, the dangers of identity theft (and why most people don’t even know they’ve been compromised), and the evolving scoring models that could reshape lending as we know it. Whether you’re a real estate investor, agent, or just someone trying to level up your financial game, this episode will give you a totally new perspective on credit.

Episode Highlights:

[0:00] - Introduction

[1:02] - Chad’s personal credit story and the “aha” moment that launched his credit repair business

[4:52] - The credit score confusion: free consumer sites vs. mortgage scores

[6:48] - How a consumer litigator helped him clean up his report—and why follow-through matters

[9:04] - Why referrals are the lifeblood of his business and how that helps ensure better results

[10:28] - The three essential questions Chad asks before taking on a client

[14:35] - What separates his service from “big box” credit repair firms like Lexington Law

[20:17] - Why credit repair companies that charge upfront are not just shady—they’re illegal

[26:50] - The evolution of identity theft: small charges, big impact

[31:15] - Understanding UltraFICO and how it’s changing access for consumers with thin files

[36:00] - Why paying off collections can temporarily hurt your credit (and what to do instead)

[40:00] - The best credit utilization ratio for increasing scores

[42:20] - How trended data gives lenders a clearer view of your financial behavior

[47:00] - A behind-the-scenes look at Chad’s automated tracking system and partner reporting

[51:00] - Why consistent follow-up improves lease-option conversions

[54:00] - The power of accountability in the credit repair journey

5 Key Takeaways:

1. Credit repair is a team sport – You can’t outsource the work entirely. You’ve got to do your part—especially when it comes to rebuilding with new, positive accounts.

2. Not all credit scores are created equal – Free scores from apps don’t match mortgage lending scores, which can be up to 100 points lower.

3. Paying off collections isn’t always helpful – Especially under Fannie Mae’s current scoring model, paying off debt can actually drop your score in the short term.

4. Monitoring your credit is non-negotiable – With data breaches affecting billions of records, it’s critical to check your credit and financial accounts regularly.

5. Long-term results beat flashy promises – Companies that only dispute one item at a time or make big guarantees often drag out the process to keep you paying.

Links & Resources:

• Credit Repair Resources: https://www.creditrepairresources.net

• Consumer Financial Protection Bureau: https://www.consumerfinance.gov

• UltraFICO information: https://www.ficoscore.com/ultrafico

• Free annual credit reports: https://www.annualcreditreport.com

If you got value from this episode, be sure to rate, review, follow, and share the podcast. And if you’re working with credit-challenged buyers or thinking about a rent-to-own strategy, you’re going to want this one saved and shared.

Let’s ride.

In this episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on one of our favorite real estate deals—how we took control of a single-family property with zero money down and turned it into over $75,000 in profit across six and a half years. From a tired landlord to a win-win land contract, we’re breaking down every step of the process: the acquisition, the strategy, the creative financing, and all the real-life twists along the way.

You’ll hear how we secured this property in just three days, navigated foundation issues, used a lease option to generate consistent cash flow, and even refinanced for a tax-free cash out. If you’re serious about building a real estate portfolio through creative deals, this episode will show you what’s possible—even without using your own money.

Episode Timeline

[0:00] - Introduction

[0:35] - The breakdown of profits: $75K+ from a zero-down deal

[1:03] - Introducing the case study: 453 Burt Avenue

[2:15] - A 3-day, no-marketing, no-money-down acquisition

[3:03] - Why traditional buyers couldn’t make the deal work

[4:12] - Our goal: no interest, no bank, seller financing

[6:09] - The land contract terms: $416/mo, paid off in 9 years

[7:17] - Marketing on a $20 budget (and it worked!)

[8:02] - Lease-option strategy: increasing rent, building equity

[9:11] - From tenant-buyer to Airbnb to a family rental

[10:00] - Cash-out refinance: $52K tax-free

[11:19] - The bonus upgrades we didn’t pay for (thank you, tenant!)

[13:18] - Tools we use: CRM, FreedomSoft, local attorney & title team

[14:24] - Why having a construction crew or handyman matters

[15:11] - Want our system? We’ll help you set it up!

3 Key Takeaways

1. Creative Financing Can Build Serious Wealth: With the right approach, you don’t need bank loans or large amounts of capital to acquire and profit from real estate.

2. Know Your Numbers and Negotiate Smart: Seller-financed deals with no interest can offer massive long-term savings—and faster paths to full ownership.

3. Systems and Support Teams Matter: The right CRM, legal team, and contractors make all the difference when scaling your portfolio efficiently.

Links & Resources

• Email: AdkinsProNetwork@gmail.com

• Annie: Annie@AnnieAdkins.com

• Website: JayAndAnnieAdkins.com

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to rate, follow, review, and share the podcast with a fellow investor or friend who’s ready to take the next step in their real estate journey. We appreciate you being here with us!

Ever had a real estate deal go sideways? In this episode of The Real Estate Ride, we’re pulling back the curtain on the good, the bad, and the downright ugly experiences we’ve had in the industry. From struggling to find reliable contractors to navigating unexpected repair costs, we’re sharing real-life stories and hard-earned lessons from our 20+ years in the business.

We also dive into why we started our own construction company and how that decision has helped us take control of our projects. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or just starting out, you’ll learn essential tips for hiring contractors, managing change orders, and making sure your renovation projects stay on track. Plus, we’re sharing some insider strategies for adding value to properties without breaking the bank.

Episode Highlights:

[0:00] Introduction

[1:10] The reality of dealing with contractors – finding reliable help isn’t easy

[3:25] Why we started our own construction company (and how it changed everything)

[6:50] Teaching our daughter how to flip a house (and the harsh lesson she learned)

[9:15] How to get accurate contractor estimates—and why you need more than one

[12:30] The importance of having a detailed renovation plan before hiring anyone

[14:45] What to ask when interviewing a contractor to avoid costly mistakes

[16:20] Understanding change orders and how they can blow your budget

[19:10] Key things to check before adding a bathroom or making major renovations

[21:45] Why you must verify local permit and licensing requirements before starting work

[23:30] How we train contractors in-house to ensure quality work on every project

[25:15] The common mistakes homeowners and investors make when hiring contractors

Five Key Takeaways:

1. Always get multiple estimates – Contractor bids can vary widely, sometimes by thousands of dollars. Comparing at least three to five quotes can prevent you from overpaying.

2. Have a clear renovation plan – A well-documented scope of work prevents miscommunication and ensures contractors follow your vision instead of making their own decisions.

3. Check licenses, insurance, and references – Don’t just rely on pictures of past work. Ask for real client references and verify that the contractor is properly insured and qualified.

4. Be prepared for unexpected costs – Change orders happen when hidden issues arise, like termite damage or outdated wiring. Build a contingency fund into your budget.

5. Understand permit requirements – Different cities and counties have different licensing and permit rules. Know what’s required in your area before hiring anyone to do the work.

Links & Resources:

• Contact us: Jay@JayAndAnnieAdkins.com | Annie@JayAndAnnieAdkins.com

If you found this episode helpful, subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share it with someone who could use these insights.

Building a successful real estate business isn’t just about finding great deals—it’s about assembling the right team to make those deals happen. In this episode of The Real Estate Ride, we’re diving deep into what it takes to put together an A-player team. From attorneys and title companies to private money lenders and virtual assistants, we break down who you need in your corner and how to find the best people for the job.

We also cover key strategies for working with contractors, negotiating with lenders, and ensuring your team operates efficiently. Plus, we discuss the common mistakes new investors make when selecting their team members—and how to avoid them. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to level up your real estate business, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you build a winning team.

Episode Highlights:

[0:00] Introduction

[1:07] Why your business is only as strong as your team

[2:52] The key players every real estate investor needs

[7:09] How to choose a title company that supports your investing strategy

[13:12] The importance of long-term relationships with agents and lenders

[16:48] When to fire a team member who isn’t meeting expectations

[28:15] Where to find private money lenders (and what to say to them)

[39:11] The power of a credibility packet when pitching lenders

[45:39] How virtual assistants can help scale your business

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review! Your support helps us keep delivering high-value content to help you succeed in real estate.

In this episode of The Real Estate Ride, we break down everything you need to know about preparing a strong purchasing contract, whether you’re buying retail, wholesaling, or working with an agent. With decades of real estate experience across multiple states, we’ve structured hundreds of contracts, and we’re sharing the best strategies to ensure your offer stands out and gets accepted.

We cover the essential components of a contract, the role of earnest money deposits, inspection clauses, and key contingencies that protect your investment. You’ll also learn common contract pitfalls that can cost you the deal and how to avoid them. If you’re looking to sharpen your contract negotiation skills and gain the confidence to navigate real estate transactions like a pro, this episode is for you.

Episode Highlights

[0:00] - Introduction

[1:00] - Overview of different purchase contracts: retail, wholesale, and investor-friendly agreements

[4:15] - Why real estate agents use board-approved contracts and what investors should know

[5:35] - When to use a simple one-page contract instead of a standard multi-page agreement

[8:45] - Earnest money deposits: how much to put down and when you may not need one

[10:30] - How to structure your offer to stand out in a competitive market

[12:10] - Why hard money loans are not considered cash and how that impacts your contract

[14:45] - The importance of inspection clauses and how to use them strategically

[16:00] - How to renegotiate price after an inspection uncovers unexpected repairs

[18:50] - What to watch for when buying from wholesalers and reviewing assignment contracts

[20:10] - How to set a realistic closing timeline to avoid contract delays and penalties

[22:00] - The risks of sending earnest money directly to sellers or wholesalers and how to protect yourself

Key Takeaways

1. A purchase contract doesn’t have to be complex. A simple one-page contract with key details (property address, price, and closing date) is often sufficient, especially in direct-to-seller deals.

2. Earnest money can strengthen your offer. While not always required, a deposit can make your offer more competitive, especially in multiple-offer situations.

3. Hard money and private loans are not cash. Listing them as cash on a contract can lead to major issues at closing and even deal cancellations.

4. Inspection clauses provide leverage. Even if you waive an inspection contingency, you can still conduct an inspection and renegotiate based on findings.

5. Closing timelines should be realistic. Giving yourself extra time beyond what lenders or title companies promise can prevent unnecessary contract extensions or penalties.

Enjoyed this episode?

If you found this episode helpful, be sure to subscribe, rate, and leave us a review. Your support helps us continue bringing expert real estate insights. Share this episode with a fellow investor or homebuyer who could benefit from these strategies.

In this episode of The Real Estate Ride, we sit down with Chris Wallace, a seasoned real estate investor and one of our coaching students. Chris shares his incredible journey from hitting rock bottom to building a successful house-flipping business. We talk about the highs, the lows, and the real-life lessons that HGTV doesn’t show you.

From making his first $41,000 on a flip to overcoming financial setbacks and navigating foreclosures, Chris opens up about the realities of real estate investing. He also shares key insights on how to find deals with zero marketing budget, why the right contractors can make or break your flip, and how personal growth and business success go hand in hand. Whether you’re new to real estate or looking for inspiration, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways.

Episode Highlights:

[0:00] – Introduction

[2:32] – Chris’s unexpected entry into real estate through a weekend job painting houses

[3:24] – Making $41,000 on his first flip and how it hooked him on real estate investing

[6:13] – The importance of taking action, no matter where you are in life

[7:01] – Overcoming addiction and how real estate played a role in rebuilding his life

[9:21] – Lessons learned from nearly losing everything in a foreclosure

[11:18] – The importance of hiring the right contractors and avoiding costly mistakes

[16:19] – Why pictures can be deceiving when hiring contractors or buying properties

[21:10] – How Chris has flipped over 25 houses with zero marketing spend

[25:22] – Using creative financing to fund flips with little to no money down

[30:44] – The power of value-add strategies to increase a home’s resale value

[33:32] – Adapting renovation plans based on budget and unexpected surprises

[37:44] – Chris reflects on what he would tell his past self about success and real estate

Key Takeaways:

1. Real estate can be a path to personal transformation. Chris turned his life around through real estate, proving that anyone can create a fresh start with the right mindset and action.

2. The right contractors make all the difference. Cutting corners on labor can cost you thousands. Always vet your contractors thoroughly before hiring.

3. You don’t need a massive marketing budget to find deals. Chris has built a successful flipping business by leveraging relationships, networking, and the MLS.

4. Flipping is not as glamorous as TV makes it seem. Real estate investing comes with unexpected challenges, from bad hires to budgeting issues, but the rewards are worth it.

5. A strong personal foundation is just as important as business success. Maintaining sobriety and personal stability helped Chris rebuild his business after setbacks.

Links & Resources:

• Join our Facebook group to connect with fellow investors

• Want Chris’s help with your next flip’s design? Reach out to him directly

Chris’s story is a powerful reminder that real estate isn’t just about flipping houses—it’s about flipping your life for the better. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and share The Real Estate Ride.

In this episode of The Real Estate Ride, we take a deep dive into creative financing strategies that can help you build your real estate portfolio without relying on traditional bank loans. From subject-to deals and seller financing to lease options and vacation rental investments, we walk through real-life case studies and practical, step-by-step advice. Plus, we share how we turned a modest first property into a profitable rental business—without using our own money. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to expand, this episode is packed with actionable insights.

Episode Highlights:

[0:00] – Introduction

[1:31] – Why vacation rentals can be a great investment—and how to manage them remotely

[3:45] – The pros and cons of self-managing vacation rentals

[6:22] – Unexpected challenges in short-term rental management (and how to avoid them)

[10:48] – The impact of external factors, like COVID-19, on vacation rentals

[13:05] – An intro to creative financing: What is “subject to” financing?

[16:14] – How we bought our first investment property with just $10,000 in savings

[18:36] – Why banks rejected us—and how creative financing helped us grow anyway

[21:50] – Case study: A Florida property we acquired with a subject-to deal

[25:13] – The pros and cons of subject-to financing explained

[28:45] – Key steps to complete a subject-to transaction successfully

[32:22] – Tenant screening essentials: How to avoid costly mistakes

[35:08] – Why we prefer tenant-buyers for our properties

[37:15] – Seller financing basics: How it differs from subject-to deals

[40:28] – Case study: How we bought a property with seller financing and no money down

[45:10] – The magic of no-interest loans—and how to negotiate for them

[48:35] – How to find sellers who are open to seller financing

[52:18] – Lease options: What they are and how to use them

[55:50] – Case study: Our South Carolina property acquired with a lease option

[58:40] – How we turned a struggling rental into a profitable Airbnb

[1:03:10] – State-specific rules for lease options—and what to watch out for

[1:06:45] – The importance of understanding local regulations

[1:10:32] – Marketing tactics to find creative financing opportunities

[1:15:25] – Why social media and word-of-mouth are critical tools for finding deals

[1:18:30] – The power of “just asking”: How simple conversations lead to properties

[1:21:40] – Structuring deals to benefit both you and the seller

[1:25:15] – Our most profitable deal ever—and what made it successful

[1:30:40] – Final tips for building a portfolio using creative financing

5 Key Takeaways:

1. Creative financing strategies open new opportunities. Techniques like subject-to deals, seller financing, and lease options allow you to build a portfolio without conventional loans.

2. Subject-to deals don’t require your own credit. These transactions let you take over existing loans, which can offer better terms than new mortgages.

3. Seller financing can mean no-interest loans. Negotiating directly with sellers can result in favorable terms that banks won’t offer.

4. Tenant screening is crucial. Background checks, employment verification, and rental history reviews help protect your investment.

5. Networking and marketing matter. Telling people about your investing goals can lead to unexpected opportunities from your existing network.

Links & Resources Mentioned:

• Zillow – Great for finding potential leads

• HotPads – Another excellent resource for real estate investors

• BiggerPockets – A fantastic community for learning more

• HelloSign – For easy electronic document signing

• Dotloop – Our go-to tool for paperwork and signatures

If you found this episode helpful, please take a moment to rate, follow, and review The Real Estate Ride. Your support helps us reach more listeners and share more actionable insights.

In this episode ofThe Real Estate Ride, we’re diving intohow to generate real estate leads on Facebook organically—without spending a dime on ads. We’ll walk you throughwhat groups to join, how to structure your posts, and how to engage with potential sellers to land real deals.

We also break downreal-life success stories, including how we secured a$100,000 deal just from a Facebook post. Plus, we share crucial tips onavoiding scams, dealing with wholesalers, and protecting your investment properties from break-ins. If you’re looking toscale your real estate business using Facebook, this episode is a must-listen!

Episode Highlights & Key Timestamps:

[0:00] – Introduction

[1:10] –The power of Facebook groups for organic lead generation

[3:45] –What types of groups to join: real estate, city groups, buy/sell/trade, and more

[8:30] –How to structure your posts to attract motivated sellers

[12:15] –Finding hidden deals in Facebook comments and marketplace listings

[17:50] –Avoiding time-wasting groups and focusing on high-quality leads

[22:30] –How to network with wholesalers and leverage joint ventures

[26:40] –Why consistency is key in finding real estate deals online

[32:10] –A $100,000 deal found on Facebook – how it happened step by step

[38:20] –Why you should track group rules & engagement limits

[42:00] –Understanding FHA loan restrictions and how they impact your flips

[47:50] –How to protect your investment properties from scammers & break-ins

[50:30] –The importance of building relationships with local sellers and investors

[53:15] –Final tips for leveraging Facebook groups for maximum deal flow

Top 5 Key Takeaways:

1. Join the right Facebook groups – Focus onlocal real estate, wholesaling, buy/sell/trade, and city groups to find deals.

2. Engage strategically – Post regularly, comment on potential leads, andmessage sellers directly when you see opportunities.

3. Look beyond direct listings – Readcomments on for-sale posts, watch for peoplementioning moving or repairs, and connect with them.

4. Build relationships with wholesalers – Even if you don’t wholesale, staying in the loop can help youaccess off-market deals before they hit the market.

5. Protect your properties – Usesecurity systems like SimpliSafe to prevent break-ins, and always register your alarm system with local authorities.

If you found this episode valuable,subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your fellow real estate investors! 🚀