Properties to Profits

EP149: How One Google Review Made Us $70K in Equity

In this episode of Properties to Profits, I share how one five-star Google review led to a $70,000 equity deal—and why your online presence matters more than you think. When other investors couldn’t see the value, we kept the deal ourselves and turned it into a cash-flowing asset in one of the best zip codes in Columbus. I break down how we bought it, renovated it, refinanced it, and positioned it to multiply in value—all thanks to a strong brand and a simple review.
 
I also walk through our exact numbers, why we kept the property instead of wholesaling it, and how having a solid reputation helped the seller choose us without hesitation. If you’re not investing in your brand or online reviews, this episode will convince you why it’s one of the smartest things you can do to create long-term wealth.
 
Episode Timeline
 
[0:45] Why we chose to keep the deal instead of wholesaling it
[1:05] The power of Google reviews—how we won the seller’s trust
[1:37] Why we couldn’t get a $20K assignment—but kept the deal anyway
[2:01] Full renovation breakdown: windows, appliances, kitchen, deck
[2:49] Our $205K all-in cost turned into a $275K appraisal
[3:11] How we created $70K in equity and monthly cash flow
[4:19] Why the seller chose us: smooth transition, no repairs, total flexibility
[5:21] How private lenders win even if we walk away
[6:20] From rehab to refinance in 40 days—why speed matters
[6:41] This deal could become $300K in profit over the next 10 years
[7:32] Real estate = relationships, reviews, and repeat deals
[7:54] Equity is the real multiplier—not just cash flow
[8:10] The BRRRR model still works—if you build trust and do the work
[8:32] Final thoughts: strong brand + good lender relationships = long-term wins
 
3 Key Takeaways
A strong online presence can win deals without spending extra on marketing.
When buyers don’t see the value, keeping the deal can create massive equity.
Relationships, reviews, and reputation are your real assets in this game.
 
Links & Resources
 
Follow me on Instagram: @realestatemike02
Subscribe to the Properties to Profits podcast for real-world investing strategies and mindset shifts
 
Enjoyed the episode?
 
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EP148: How Third-Party Stories Close More Deals (Without the Hard Sell)

In this episode of Properties to Profits, I break down one of the most underrated tools in sales—and one of the most powerful ways to build trust with sellers: third-party stories. Instead of telling a seller what you can do, you show them through real examples of people you’ve helped before. I share how a bankruptcy conversation with a seller in Dayton opened the door for deeper trust simply because I shared two real stories of people we helped in similar situations.
 
I explain why sellers often feel their situation is unique, how stories help them feel seen, and how the right third-party examples can remove fear, lower resistance, and uncover the real reason they need to sell. If you’re in sales, real estate, or any role that requires trust, this episode will teach you how to use storytelling ethically, strategically, and effectively.
 
Episode Timeline
 
[0:00] Why third-party stories instantly build trust with sellers
[0:52] Talking with a bankruptcy seller in Dayton—and what opened her up
[1:12] How she felt stuck despite paying into her bankruptcy for years
[1:33] Her equity, her fears, and how selling creates peace of mind
[2:05] Two real stories I shared that changed the conversation
[2:24] Why sellers think their situation is unique—and how to connect through stories
[2:43] How details like names and locations make stories believable and relatable
[3:19] The moment the seller lets their guard down—and how to handle it ethically
[3:38] Why trust leads to better deals for both you and the seller
[4:05] Good deals are easier to fund—why deeper discounts matter
[4:24] Third-party stories as a gateway to uncovering real objections
[4:44] Herd mentality in sales—why people feel safer following others
[5:06] Showing proof of past success to help sellers make confident decisions
 
3 Key Takeaways
Third-party stories reduce fear and show sellers you’ve helped people just like them.
Specific details—names, situations, locations—make stories relatable and believable.
When sellers trust you, they open up, share real objections, and deals close faster and cleaner.
 
Links & Resources
 
Follow me on Instagram: @realestatemike02
Subscribe to the Properties to Profits podcast for weekly sales, mindset, and real estate insights
 
Enjoyed the episode?
 
If this episode gave you a new tool to close more deals with integrity, hit subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a fellow investor or salesperson. Let’s keep turning properties into profits—together.

EP147: When Life Feels Impossible, Here’s How to Keep Going

In this deeply personal episode of Properties to Profits, I open up about my long battle with suicidal thoughts and the tools I’ve built over nearly two decades to fight through the darkest moments. This isn’t a business playbook—it’s a conversation about life, loss, resilience, and what it really takes to keep going when quitting feels like the only option.
 
I share the mindset shifts, habits, and emergency frameworks that helped me rebuild after financial collapse, relationship loss, and severe mental health struggles. If you’ve ever dealt with depression, burnout, or felt like the pressure was too much, this episode offers real tools—not clichés—for getting back on your feet and remembering why your life still matters.
 
Episode Timeline
 
[0:00] A close friend’s suicide—and why I’m sharing this now
[1:31] My own experience with suicidal thoughts and attempts
[2:26] Why today’s challenges are different for this generation
[3:37] Unrealistic goals, social pressure, and what we think we “should” be
[4:24] You only lose if you quit—everything else is a lesson
[4:55] A story of recovery from stroke, and the power of belief
[5:33] My lowest financial point: $1 million in debt and ready to give up
[6:38] The safe in my office: a symbol of survival and perspective
[7:25] The truth about success—cars, money, and chasing self-worth
[8:11] The daily protocol I use to combat negative thoughts
[9:24] My emergency rule: 3 people must agree before I act on dark thoughts
[10:34] Emotional thoughts ≠ required action—how to reframe
[11:34] Building a system to stop the spiral and find the lesson
[12:56] You’re not alone—how to support yourself and others
[13:45] Life can and will get better if you don’t quit
[14:44] From -$1M to paid in full—proof that recovery is possible
[15:11] You have more time—as long as you keep going
 
3 Key Takeaways
Negative thoughts are not facts—they’re signals, and you can change how you respond to them.
Having a framework for handling emotional lows can save your life.
You don’t need to solve everything today—you just need to not give up.
 
Links & Resources
 
Follow me on Instagram: @realestatemike02
Subscribe to the Properties to Profits podcast for more than just real estate—this is about real life.
 
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EP146: The 4 Pillars of Mental Strength (And How to Train Them)

In this Mindset Monday episode of Properties to Profits, I dive into one of the most important—and overlooked—skills in life and business: mental toughness. It’s not about being born with grit. It’s about training your mind to be unshakeable when things go wrong. Whether you’re facing relationship stress, business setbacks, or personal struggles, I break down a practical framework you can use to build resilience, push through adversity, and raise your baseline.
 
I share the four core components that define real mental toughness: your baseline, tolerance, fortitude, and resilience. If you’ve ever found yourself reacting poorly to pressure, falling off track, or stuck in emotional patterns that hold you back, this episode will give you the tools to bounce back stronger—and build a life you’re proud of.
 
Episode Timeline
 
[0:45] Why mental toughness matters more than motivation
[1:10] What’s your baseline—and how does it shape your default behavior?
[2:06] Tolerance: how long you can endure stress without breaking
[3:18] Fortitude: what happens when your limits are pushed
[4:16] Resilience: how fast you bounce back after falling off
[5:02] Adaptability: did your struggle make you stronger or weaker?
[6:05] How to train mental toughness like a muscle
[7:46] You can’t avoid hardship—but you can control your reaction
[8:45] Consistency matters more than emotional explosions
[9:27] Track, reflect, and build your way to a tougher version of yourself
[10:50] Personal story: how I’ve grown in emotional strength over time
 
3 Key Takeaways
Mental toughness is built, not inherited—train it like a skill.
Your bounce-back speed matters more than how hard you fall.
Strengthen your baseline, track your patterns, and choose growth over reaction.
 
Links & Resources
 
Follow me on Instagram: @realestatemike02
Subscribe to the Properties to Profits podcast for more mindset, strategy, and real estate lessons
 
Enjoyed the episode?
 
If this gave you a fresh way to think about adversity and growth, hit subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs to hear it. Let’s keep turning properties into profits—together.

EP145: Ohio Just Regulated Wholesaling: Here’s What You Need to Know

In this episode of Properties to Profits, I break down the impact of Ohio’s newly passed Senate Bill 155—a law that now officially regulates wholesaling activity in the state. I walk you through what this bill actually says, what’s required moving forward, and how I’m adapting my business to stay compliant without slowing down.
 
We cover what this law gets right, what it completely misses, and how smart investors can actually use this moment to get ahead. If you’re wholesaling in Ohio—or anywhere else watching what’s happening here—this episode will give you the real insights you need to keep moving deals, stay legal, and win while others panic.
 
Episode Timeline
 
[0:00] Ohio Senate Bill 155 is here—what it is and when it goes into effect
[1:14] Why disclosure isn’t the real problem with wholesaling
[1:57] What the new law actually requires in contracts
[2:21] The 5 new disclosures every wholesaler must include
[3:02] Who is (and isn’t) affected—double closes, novations, and direct buyers
[4:03] Our plan: more direct purchases, strategic compliance
[4:35] Why this could be an advantage for ethical, established wholesalers
[5:10] Penalties, fines, and what happens if you don’t disclose properly
[5:46] Why this won’t destroy the industry—but it will shake out the amateurs
[6:06] The change I wish they made: enforceable contract timelines
[6:35] My take on what’s next—and how to stay ahead
 
3 Key Takeaways
Ohio SB 155 requires five key contract disclosures for wholesalers—starting mid-February.
This won’t kill the industry—but it will scare off the unprepared and unprofessional.
If you’re ethical, proactive, and focused on value, this can actually give you a major edge.
 
Links & Resources
 
Follow me on Instagram: @realestatemike02
Subscribe to the Properties to Profits podcast for more updates on real estate regulation, strategy, and growth
 
Enjoyed the episode?
 
If this episode helped you understand what’s changing in Ohio—or what could be coming to your market—subscribe, drop a review, and share it with a fellow investor. Let’s keep turning properties into profits—together.

EP144: The 50 year Mortgage Could Make You Wealthy

In this episode of Properties to Profits, I dig into one of the most talked-about mortgage products on the horizon—the 50-year mortgage. While most people are calling it a financial trap, I make the case that if used strategically, it could unlock massive wealth, long-term flexibility, and even generational freedom.
 
I break down the real math behind stretching your loan from 30 to 50 years, and more importantly, how to use the cash flow difference to create long-term investment returns. Whether you’re struggling to afford a home or just looking for a smarter way to play the financial game, this episode will shift your thinking and give you options the average buyer will miss.
 
Episode Timeline
 
[0:00] Why the 50-year mortgage could be a game-changer for the right person
[1:27] Homeownership challenges: rates, prices, and affordability at all-time highs
[2:16] Real math: 30-year vs. 50-year loan on a $500K home
[3:00] What you can do with the $248/month you save—if you’re disciplined
[4:06] $248/month invested at 12% = $868K in 30 years, $7.5M in 50
[5:20] Why this strategy isn’t for everyone—but can change your family tree
[5:57] Risks: slower equity growth, long-term interest cost, and life changes
[6:29] Who should consider this option—and who shouldn’t
[6:59] The urgency factor: once this becomes mainstream, prices may spike
[7:34] The key: discipline, strategy, and a long-term wealth mindset
[8:50] It’s not about the loan—it’s about what you do with the opportunity
 
3 Key Takeaways
A 50-year mortgage can provide meaningful cash flow—but only if you invest the difference wisely.
Compounding $250/month at 12% can turn into millions—play the long game.
This is a tool, not a shortcut—success depends on your discipline, not the loan term.
 
Links & Resources
 
Follow me on Instagram: @realestatemike02
Subscribe to the Properties to Profits podcast for more creative strategies and financial insights
 
Enjoyed the episode?
 
If this episode gave you a new way to look at home financing and wealth building, subscribe, leave a five-star review, and share it with someone who’s ready to think beyond the 30-year mortgage. Let’s keep turning properties into profits—together.

EP143: How to Lock the Deal Before Your Competitor Does

In this episode of Properties to Profits, I share the real reason most investors lose deals—it’s not price, it’s hesitation. I break down the exact framework we use to close deals on the spot and why leaving a quote without a commitment opens the door for someone else to take everything you worked for. Whether you’re new to sales or have years in the game, this episode will challenge how you approach seller conversations.
 
You’ll learn how to lead with confidence, handle objections in real time, and get commitments while the motivation is highest. If you’ve ever had a seller ghost you after a great conversation, this one will hit home—and it might just change how you sell forever.
 
Episode Timeline
 
[0:00] Why we never leave a quote without asking for the close
[1:26] The danger of hesitation—and how competitors swoop in
[2:06] How your offer becomes just another number if you wait
[3:00] Why the first conversation is your best shot to close
[4:13] Both strategies work—but only one protects your margin
[5:00] The framework we use to build trust and close on the spot
[6:15] How to set tone and expectations early in the conversation
[7:10] Objections aren’t rejection—they’re just the beginning
[8:29] Why silence is your secret sales weapon
[9:10] Emotional peaks create decision moments—don’t miss them
[10:28] Choose your strategy and build your script—no more winging it
[11:32] Reps = Results: Practice, role play, and close like a pro
[12:12] Join a winning sales culture—or create one yourself
 
3 Key Takeaways
The moment of highest emotion is your best chance to close—don’t let it pass.
Leaving quotes opens the door for competitors to steal your deal.
Sales is about courage, clarity, and reps—not being slick.
 
Links & Resources
 
Follow me on Instagram: @realestatemike02
Want to join a winning sales team? DM me on Instagram and let’s talk
Subscribe to the Properties to Profits podcast for more no-fluff sales and real estate strategy
 
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EP142: The Difference Between Motivation & Discipline

In this Mindset Monday episode of Properties to Profits, I break down the difference between motivation and discipline—and why only one of them leads to lasting results. Motivation fades. Discipline is what carries you when nothing is going your way. I share the hard truth about what it really takes to grow your business, transform your body, or level up any area of your life.
 
I walk you through the four stages every goal goes through—emotion, excitement, discipline, and growth—and show you how to push through the wall that makes most people quit. Whether you’re in a rut, stuck in your job, or ready to finally see results, this episode will give you the perspective and strategy to stay consistent when it counts most.
 
Episode Timeline
 
[0:00] Discipline > Motivation: What really keeps you in the game
[1:10] Why most people quit jobs, businesses, and goals too early
[2:06] Discipline means doing it when it’s boring, hard, and unrewarded
[2:36] The $10M+ reason I kept showing up when I wanted to quit
[3:30] How to become the version of yourself that creates better results
[4:02] The 4 stages of every goal: emotion, excitement, discipline, growth
[5:04] Results take 6 months, not 6 days—just like in the gym
[6:05] Track streaks, not feelings—discipline is a daily decision
[6:26] Discipline is a muscle that compounds like money
[6:55] One day you’ll wake up with freedom, confidence, and results
[7:46] When you want to quit, keep going—this is where growth happens
 
3 Key Takeaways
Motivation gets you started, but only discipline brings results.
Discipline means doing what you said you’d do, even when you don’t feel like it.
The results you want are on the other side of consistency—stack the wins daily.
 
Links & Resources
 
Follow me on Instagram: @realestatemike02
Subscribe to the Properties to Profits podcast for weekly mindset and real estate strategy
 
Enjoyed the episode?
 
If this episode lit a fire under you, hit subscribe, leave a five-star review, and share it with someone who needs to hear this today. Let’s keep turning properties into profits—together.