In this episode, Tim talks with Paul, a Canadian real estate investor and federal law enforcement officer who's exploring his first business acquisition. Paul shares how he and his wife successfully invested in U.S. real estate despite being told it was "impossible," why business ownership feels like the next natural step, and the unique challenges of navigating licensing, brokers, and cross-border deals.

From private investigation firms to roofing businesses, Paul unpacks his search process, the importance of seller trust, and why respect for people's time and relationships matters as much as the numbers.

Tim is an entrepreneur who believes everyone should explore the opportunities that business and real estate can provide on the path to financial freedom. He owns and operates a wine & liquor store, a software startup, a consulting company, and a growing portfolio of commercial and residential real estate.

Tim's passion for independent business has led him to support dozens of other business owners. For over a decade, he has worked with businesses on strategy, processes, finances, and marketing. These experiences, along with analyzing dozens of other businesses for potential acquisition, have provided Tim with an immense knowledge base to pull from.

Tim has appeared on multiple top-tier podcasts in the financial space, such as Bigger Pockets Money and The Freedom Chasers Podcast.

[00:00 – 12:00] Paul's Background & Real Estate Success

Growing up in Manitoba and building a law enforcement career.
How he and his wife invested in U.S. real estate after Canadian markets failed to cash flow.
Overcoming barriers as a Canadian investor and scaling into multiple rentals.

[12:01 – 22:30] Discovering Business Buying

How Cody Sanchez's content sparked his interest.
Why business ownership feels like real estate "with more levers."
The appeal of private investigation firms as a natural fit for his skillset.

[22:31 – 37:00] Deals, Brokers & Seller Relationships

Navigating a California business opportunity despite licensing challenges.
Why brokers often dismiss newcomers — and how sellers can see things differently.
Respecting sellers' emotional ties: "You're buying someone's baby."

[37:01 – 52:00] Partnerships & Financing

How Paul found a like-minded partner in the Contrarian community.
Creative terms, seller financing, and long-term planning.
Why treating brokers fairly pays off for future deals.

[52:01 – End] Lessons Learned

Respecting people's time and relationships.
The importance of aligning your skills with the business you buy.
"Give without expectation of return" — Paul's philosophy for success.

Guest Bio
Paul is a Canadian real estate investor and federal law enforcement officer exploring his first U.S. business acquisition. With a strong track record in cross-border real estate, Paul is now leveraging his skills, perseverance, and law enforcement background to enter the world of small business ownership.

Connect with Tim and the community on social media for more tips and updates:

Website: https://www.powerofbiz.com

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@powerofbiz

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/timtdelaney/

Threads: https://www.threads.com/@timtdelaney

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timothytdelaney/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/timtdelaney

"Price is what you pay. Value is what you get." – Paul
"You're buying someone's baby — it's emotional, not just numbers." – Paul
"Give without expectation of return. Just do things for people." – Paul
"If the business is worth it, then you can pay it." – Paul