Properties to Profits

EP 104: When is the Right Time To Give Equity in Your Business?

In this episode of Properties to Profits, I dive deep into one of the most common and complicated questions I get asked: When is the right time to give up equity in your business? Whether you’re a young entrepreneur eager for ownership or a seasoned player who believes they’ve earned a stake, the decision to share equity isn’t one I take lightly—and neither should you.
 
I break down the types of individuals who typically request equity, what makes a person truly deserving, and the criteria I personally use to decide when it’s worth the trade. From young go-getters with time but little experience to veteran salespeople with a track record of performance, I share real talk on what it really takes to earn a piece of the pie—and how giving equity can either catapult or complicate your business.
 
Timeline Summary
[0:00] - What inspired this episode: tough questions about giving up equity
[1:16] - Why the wealthiest people often don’t own the majority of their businesses
[2:15] - Challenges with giving equity to inexperienced but ambitious young professionals
[3:25] - What it takes to truly earn equity: proving value before receiving it
[5:38] - Advice to young people looking to earn ownership through hard work and sacrifice
[7:17] - Evaluating partners with experience: the $2M operator vs. $50M visionary
[8:35] - When past sales success just isn’t enough without sustained elite performance
[10:05] - Real stories: Who I’ve actually given equity to—and why it worked
[12:08] - The difference A-players make, and why most people won’t qualify (and that’s okay)
 
3 Key Takeaways
Equity must be earned, not expected – Whether through financial investment, long-term commitment, or exceptional performance, equity should go to those who prove they can move the needle.
Experience alone isn’t enough – Past results must be significant, recent, and relevant to your business’s goals to justify an ownership stake.
Start small, grow with impact – Offering tiered or gradual equity can help mitigate risk while motivating team members to grow the business over time.
 
Links & Resources
Connect on Instagram: @realestatemike02
 
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EP 103: My $250K Loss: The Hardest Real Estate Lesson Yet

In this episode, I pull back the curtain on one of the most painful—but important—real estate lessons I’ve ever learned. I walk you through my experience with the 808 Gilbert property—what seemed like a textbook win on paper turned into a six-figure loss. From ignoring the warning signs to trusting the wrong systems, this project taught me more than any win ever could.
 
If you’re investing in real estate—whether you’re flipping, renting, or exploring Airbnb—this episode is a must-listen. I share the mistakes I made so you don’t have to repeat them, and the exact systems I’ve now put in place to ensure this never happens again.
Episode Timeline
[0:00] - Introduction
[0:37] - Why I decided to share this $250K loss
[1:23] - What the market looked like before the purchase of 808 Gilbert
[2:50] - Feeling untouchable: the illusion of consistent wins
[3:52] - How one decision started the downward spiral
[5:12] - Construction setbacks and team mismanagement
[6:14] - Holding on too long and ignoring market signals
[8:06] - The operational shifts we’ve made since this loss
[10:24] - Lessons in emotional decision-making vs. business strategy
[11:49] - Final thoughts: real estate isn’t always forgiving, but it’s always a teacher
3 Key Takeaways
Act fast when red flags appear: Waiting too long to sell cost me more than $100K. Don’t delay decisions in hopes the market will bounce back.
Track everything weekly: Implementing weekly KPI reviews for all active projects now helps us stay ahead of costly surprises.
Stick to what you do well: Avoid chasing others’ strategies or stretching into areas you’re not experienced in—especially when the stakes are high.
Links & Resources
Follow me on Instagram: @realestatemike02
If you found value in this episode, please follow, rate, and share Properties to Profit with anyone who’s on their own real estate journey. Let’s keep turning properties into profits—together.

EP 102: Leveraging AI & Brand to Build Your Business

In this episode of Properties to Profits, I dive into a crucial topic that many business owners overlook—marketing. Fresh from attending the Brand Lab mastermind hosted by Brandon McCurdy of Sharper Business Solutions, I share some powerful insights that every entrepreneur needs to hear. Whether you’re struggling to get quality leads or your sales team isn’t closing, this conversation will help you rethink your approach and get your marketing engine running right.
 
I break down the mindset shift of treating your business like a tech company that happens to be in real estate, the game-changing role of AI in day-to-day operations, and why having a dedicated marketing person is non-negotiable if you want to scale. Tune in as I share the biggest takeaways, favorite tools, and how to build a marketing department that doesn’t just support your business—it drives it.
 
Timeline Summary
 
[0:00] – The real problem behind struggling sales: it might be your marketing.
[1:16] – Inside scoop from the Brand Lab marketing mastermind and why it stood out.
[2:17] – Reframing your business as a tech company first.
[2:59] – Using AI tools daily and why storing your data is critical.
[4:02] – Tools mentioned: ChatGPT, Google AI, Storyboard AI, Scribe AI, and Notebook Lab.
[5:04] – Why your marketing person should be analyzing data and tracking every lead.
[6:02] – Key traits to look for when hiring your first (or next) marketing hire.
[8:00] – Aligning your brand message across all platforms and departments.
[9:28] – Following up with leads that didn’t convert and what you can learn.
[10:34] – Final takeaways: treat marketing as a priority and hire accordingly.
 
3 Key Takeaways
Marketing is not optional—it’s foundational. Treat your business like a tech company that happens to be in your industry and prioritize marketing as a core function, not a side task.
AI is a game changer. Leverage AI tools like ChatGPT and others to save time, analyze data, and optimize your workflows—but don’t forget to store your input for future flexibility.
Hire smart. Your marketing person should be a proactive, data-driven collaborator who knows your customer inside out and brings energy, discipline, and fresh ideas daily.
 
Links & Resources
Brand Lab by Brandon McCurdy – Hosted by Sharper Business Solutions
AI Tools Mentioned: ChatGPT, Google AI, Storyboard AI, Scribe AI, Notebook Lab
Follow me on Instagram: @realestatemike02
 
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EP 101: Kill the Noise: Buy Back Your Time with FOCUS

In this episode of Properties to Profits, I dive into one of the biggest challenges every entrepreneur and investor faces today: distraction. From constant notifications to dopamine-driven social media loops, our attention is under siege. But what if you could reclaim just two hours of focused time each day—and in doing so, unlock an entire extra month each year for deep, productive work?
 
I share how I’ve been using the Opal app to engineer my environment, eliminate time-wasting triggers, and get laser-focused on the actions that move the needle in my real estate business. This isn’t just about cutting screen time—it’s about buying back your time and executing with intention. If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or just need a productivity boost, this is the episode for you.
 
Timeline Summary
[0:00] Introduction
[0:56] The digital world is designed to hijack your focus—and how that sabotages your goals
[1:53] The cost of distraction: how many days a year are you unintentionally giving away?
[2:42] Real estate use-cases for reclaimed time: more offers, more deals, more growth
[3:06] How to block out distractions and create deep work windows that work for you
[4:17] My personal setup with the Opal app to protect focus time in the morning and evening
[5:14] Using technology to fight back: how Opal rewards focus instead of feeding distraction
[6:21] Results you can expect: less screen time, more energy, and better sleep
[7:41] Why distraction, not failure, is the real enemy of greatness
 
3 Key Takeaways
Distractions are stealing valuable hours from your day—taking control of them can dramatically change your productivity.
Tools like the Opal app can help you lock in focus by scheduling access to attention-grabbing apps and rewarding deep work.
Reclaiming just two hours a day could give you an entire month back in your year—imagine what you could achieve with that time.
 
Links & Resources
Opal App – The focus tool I’m using to block distractions and reclaim my day
DM me on Instagram: @realestatemike02
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EP 100: Mastering Subject To in Today’s Market

In this episode of Properties to Profits, I unpack one of the most powerful—and misunderstood—strategies in real estate investing: the “subject to” deal. If you’re hitting walls with traditional financing or looking to acquire properties with minimal upfront cash, this approach might be your next move. But be warned: it’s not without risk.
 
I walk you through how these deals work, why they’re a win for both investors and sellers, and what risks you absolutely need to understand before diving in. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or just getting started, this episode offers the insights you need to evaluate if subject to deals should be part of your investing toolkit.
 
Key Takeaways
Control Without Credit – Subject to deals let you acquire properties by taking over existing mortgages—no credit checks or bank qualifications required.
Win-Win for Sellers – This strategy offers immediate mortgage relief to distressed sellers, helping them avoid foreclosure and protect their credit.
Risk Requires Readiness – The due-on-sale clause is real. Always have a backup plan—like the ability to refinance or sell—before you close a subject to deal.
 
Timeline Summary
 
[0:00] - Why subject to deals are relevant in today’s market
[1:25] - What “subject to” really means and how it works
[2:21] - Benefits for sellers: financial relief and credit protection
[3:13] - Benefits for investors: minimal cash and fast control
[4:39] - The due-on-sale clause: the hidden risk every investor must understand
[6:30] - Why integrity matters—don’t put sellers in worse situations
[8:01] - Real-world example: taking over a two-mortgage home in Canal Winchester
[9:25] - The importance of having an exit and payment plan
[10:13] - Final thoughts: power and pitfalls of this creative strategy
 
Links & Resources
Follow me on Instagram: @RealEstateMike02
 
If this episode gave you a fresh perspective or valuable insight, please rate, follow, and leave a review. And don’t forget to share this episode with your fellow investors. Let’s keep turning properties into profits—together.

EP 99: Unlocking Profits with Lease Options

In this episode of Properties to Profit, I dive into a creative investing strategy that’s helping me—and could help you—navigate today’s sky-high interest rates: lease options. If you’re a real estate investor struggling to make deals cash flow or frustrated with slim flipping margins, this episode is a must-listen. I break down how lease options can offer control, flexibility, and long-term upside with minimal upfront investment.
 
You’ll learn how this approach benefits both investors and sellers, how to identify ideal properties, and the pitfalls to avoid. Whether you’re looking to scale your rental portfolio or lock in future appreciation, lease options might just be your new secret weapon.
 
Key Takeaways
Flexibility Without Ownership – Lease options allow investors to control properties and benefit from market appreciation without the obligations of immediate ownership or large down payments.
Win-Win for Sellers – This strategy offers financial relief to motivated sellers, especially those with high mortgage burdens or stagnant listings.
Low-Risk Entry with High Potential – By targeting newer homes that don’t need major repairs and negotiating favorable terms, investors can enter deals with minimal risk and significant upside.
 
Timeline Summary
[0:00] - Why high interest rates are forcing investors to rethink their strategies
[1:16] - What exactly is a lease option and why it’s powerful in today’s market
[2:14] - Key advantages: flexibility, rent control, and future appreciation
[3:17] - How lease options help sellers facing financial strain
[4:06] - The importance of choosing newer homes and doing thorough inspections
[5:13] - How lease options conserve cash for other investment opportunities
[6:32] - Dealing with unmotivated realtors and identifying properties ripe for lease options
[7:15] - Customizing lease terms and having multiple exit strategies
[8:12] - Final thoughts on creating win-win deals with minimal risk
 
Links & Resources
Follow me on Instagram: @RealEstateMike02
 
If this episode gave you new insights or inspiration, please take a moment to rate, follow, and review the show. And don’t forget to share it with a fellow investor! Let’s keep turning properties into profits—together.

EP 98: What to do When A Seller Ghosts You

In this episode, I dive into a frustrating but all-too-common situation in real estate investing: when a seller ghosts you. I share firsthand experiences—some successful, others not so much—and walk you through the exact steps we take to reconnect, from simple texts to certified letters, and even calling in a wellness check. One case even led to a surprising $32,000 deal!
 
Whether you’re new to the game or have a few deals under your belt, you’ll want to know how to handle these unpredictable moments with professionalism and care. Because sometimes, it’s not about the deal—it’s about genuinely checking in.
 
Timeline Summary
[0:00] - What to do first when a seller goes silent
[1:28] - Sending a certified letter: polite persistence pays off
[2:04] - The Cleveland case: from ghosted to closed via local police
[3:28] - A tech mishap: how “Do Not Disturb” nearly killed a deal
[4:02] - Lessons from a 90-year-old seller who climbed through a window
[4:46] - A concerning local case and the importance of wellness checks
[5:08] - The full recap: from texts to wellness calls, what really works
[6:10] - The big takeaway: it’s usually not personal—just life happening
Links & Resources
Follow me on Instagram: @realestatemike02
Connect on Facebook: Michael Smith
If you found this episode helpful, please rate, follow, and share it with someone who’s navigating the ups and downs of real estate. Your support helps us keep turning properties into profits!

EP 97: Why the Word NO Is the Most Powerful Word

In this Monday Mindset episode, I dive deep into a skill that has absolutely transformed my personal and professional life: the power of saying NO. If you’re someone who feels pulled in a hundred different directions, constantly trying to please everyone else at the expense of your own goals—this episode is for you. I share how learning to set boundaries, focus on what truly matters, and eliminate low-value tasks helped me go from burnout to building a thriving business.
 
You’ll hear how a low point in 2018 forced me to reevaluate my priorities and how I now use income benchmarks and the “Four F’s” framework—Family, Faith, Fitness, and Finances—to guide every decision I make. Tune in to learn why saying no isn’t about missing out, but about making space for what moves you forward.
Timeline Summary:
 
[0:00] - Why saying no is one of the most important skills for success
[1:29] - The turning point: hitting rock bottom and realizing people-pleasing doesn’t work
[2:28] - Step one to saying no: define what you want out of life
[3:18] - Using income goals to decide which tasks to eliminate
[5:08] - Real-life examples of outsourcing low-value tasks
[6:21] - Reinvesting your time into high-value skill-building
[8:10] - Applying the Four F’s to prioritize and make better decisions
[10:24] - Saying no for fitness and health goals—yes, that means the snooze button too
[12:26] - Weekly challenge: what are you going to say no to?
 
3 Key Takeaways:
You can’t please everyone—focus on what fulfills you and supports your goals.
Replace low-value tasks with higher-value activities that align with your income or life goals.
Use the Four F’s—Family, Faith, Fitness, and Finances—to evaluate whether something is worth your time.
If today’s episode gave you a new perspective or a boost of motivation, please take a moment to rate, follow, and share the podcast. Your support means everything—and helps more people turn properties into profits.