What if you could build a 184-unit Airbnb portfolio without owning a single property in just two years?

In this episode, I sit down with Kevin Leong, who scaled from 0 to 184 Airbnb arbitrage units in just two years. At his peak, his business pulled in over $1.1M in a single month. After grinding through the early days, Kevin built systems, hired a team of 20+ VAs, and now runs the entire operation in under 10 hours a week.

We dive into how Kevin went from a cannabis warehouse job and side hustles to building one of the fastest-growing Airbnb arbitrage companies out there. He shares the credit card hacks that helped him fund his first deal, the 200+ cold calls it took to land his first “yes,” and the mistakes new operators should avoid.

If you’re into real estate, Airbnb, or just want to learn how to scale a business fast—this one’s a masterclass.

-----

We talk about:

• How Kevin scaled from 0 to 184 Airbnb arbitrage units in two years
• Using 0% interest credit cards to fund growth
• The grind of 200+ rejections before his first deal
• Building systems and SOPs to scale without burnout
• Hiring VAs and stepping back to a 10-hour workweek
• Why arbitrage can be the perfect stepping stone to long-term wealth

-----

🎯 Follow Kevin Leong
Instagram: @kevinleong_bnb

🚀 Connect with Lorenzo Mercado
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lorenzo.mercado_/
Website: www.mercasaventures.com

www.AscentCapital.llc

🎙️ Listen to The Lo-Down

🎙️Podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lo-down/id1764777761
🎙️Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YjwXXjvFT3mqve6uMF983?si=d2501028127246f3
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Lorenzo.Mercado

-----

💬 Like this episode?
Share it with a friend who needs to hear it!

-----

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Airbnb Arbitrage

02:49 Understanding the Business Model

05:38 Revenue Insights and Financials

08:35 Background and Early Career

11:25 First Deal Experience

14:01 Choosing Locations and Market Research

17:08. Scaling the Business

20:02 Operational Strategies and Team Structure

22:55 Challenges and Learning Lessons

25:39 Future Plans and Vision

28:45 Final Thoughts and Advice

What if homes could be printed instead of built?

In this episode, I sit down with Nan Lin, founder of 4DIFY and Kaizen Capital, who built California’s first fully permitted 3D-printed housing community.

We get into how he went from mortgage lending to real estate investing, and how that journey led him to launching a company that’s changing how we think about construction. Nan shares how they got local approvals, solved major problems in housing, and built something no one thought was possible.

If you're into real estate, construction innovation, or just love bold ideas—this one’s a must-listen.

-----

We talk about:
-How 3D printing could solve labor shortages and reduce build costs
-What it took to get city and county approval for something no one’s seen before
-Raising capital from people who believed in the vision
-The mindset it takes to bet big on innovation

-----

🎯 Follow Nan Lin
Instagram: @nanunlimited
4DIFY Website: https://www.4dify.com

🚀 Connect with Lorenzo Mercado
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lorenzo.mercado_
Website: https://www.mercasaventures.com

🎙️Podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lo-down/id1764777761
🎙️Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YjwXXjvFT3mqve6uMF983?si=d2501028127246f3
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Lorenzo.Mercado

-----

💬 Like this episode?
Share it with a friend who needs to hear it!

-----

Timestamps:
00:19 – Introduction to Nan Lin and Fortify
01:49 – The Genesis of Fortify: From Idea to Reality
07:54 – The 3D Printing Process: Building the Future of Homes
13:40 – Navigating Permits and City Approvals
19:08 – Financial Insights: Costs and Profitability
25:00 – Raising Capital: Strategies and Advice
26:56 – Expanding Horizons: Multifamily and ADUs
28:37 – Collaborative Design Challenges in Construction
31:23 – Future Vision: Scaling Fortify's Operations
32:34 – Investment and Operational Challenges in 3D Printing
33:43 – Nan Lin's Journey into Real Estate
39:15 – Lessons from Early Real Estate Investments
49:53 – Founding Kaizen Capital: A Collective Investment Approach
52:12 – Building a Team: Hiring for Success
54:06 – Mindset and Philosophy for Continuous Improvement

In this deeply personal soLo episode, I share the raw, unfiltered story behind one of the best decisions I’ve ever made: quitting alcohol and all other drugs — and how that choice transformed every area of my life.

From blacking out in Vegas to losing myself to weekend benders, drinking was more than just a habit… it was my identity. But two years ago, everything changed.

In this episode, I dive into:
• When and why I started drinking
• The night that finally broke me
• The social pressure and FOMO of sobriety
• How I handled cravings and temptation
• The myths people believe about sober life
• And how going alcohol-free helped me become a better husband, entrepreneur, and human being

Whether you’re sober curious, struggling with balance, or just love a story of personal growth — this one’s for you.

🔗 If you’ve ever questioned your relationship with alcohol, I hope this episode brings clarity, encouragement, and hope.

Please give a 5 STAR REVIEW on Spotify or Apple Podcasts and SHARE this episode.

-----

🚀 Connect with Lorenzo Mercado
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lorenzo.mercado_
Website: https://www.mercasaventures.com

🎙️Podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lo-down/id1764777761
🎙️Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YjwXXjvFT3mqve6uMF983?si=d2501028127246f3
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Lorenzo.Mercado

-----

💬 Like this episode?
Share it with a friend who needs to hear it!

-----

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Sobriety Journey

01:02
The Struggles with Alcohol

03:52
Life Before Sobriety

06:42
The Challenges of Going Sober

09:37
Transformations After Sobriety

12:20
Myths About Sobriety

13:08
Encouragement for Those Considering Sobriety

In episode 30 of The Lo-Down, Lorenzo Mercado sits down with Nick Rossi — a former chief engineer on tugboats, turned real estate investor and construction business owner — to unpack how he leveraged grit, mentorship, and a 3.5% FHA loan to break into multifamily real estate and scale a construction company.

Nick shares practical advice on managing contractors, buying or building businesses, and using hands-on experience to fuel growth. If you're in real estate, construction, or just looking to transition into entrepreneurship, this is your episode.

We cover:

• Nick’s journey from tugboats in Alaska to real estate investing
• How he used an FHA loan to kickstart his first multifamily deal
• Managing contractors the right way: scope, systems, and communication
• Lessons from building a scalable painting and construction business
• The pros and cons of acquiring a business vs. starting from scratch
• Why education, networking, and time management are game changers
• The transition into short-term rentals and the future of hospitality

Please give a 5 STAR REVIEW on Spotify or Apple Podcasts and SHARE this episode.

-----

👥 Connect with Nick Rossi:
Instagram: www.instagram.com/nlrossi

🚀 Connect with Lorenzo Mercado
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lorenzo.mercado_
Website: https://www.mercasaventures.com

🎙️Podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lo-down/id1764777761
🎙️Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YjwXXjvFT3mqve6uMF983?si=d2501028127246f3
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Lorenzo.Mercado

-----

💬 Like this episode?
Share it with a friend who needs to hear it!

-----

Chapters
01:14 – From Tugboats to Real Estate: A Unique Journey
05:18 – Transitioning to Real Estate: Finding a Mentor
12:00 – Building a Construction Business: Lessons Learned
17:54 – Managing Contractors: Communication is Key
23:53 – Navigating Business Growth: Learning from Mistakes
28:56 – Buying vs. Starting a Business: Insights on Acquisition
31:00 – Navigating Non-Compete Clauses
31:30 – The Journey of the First Multifamily Deal
33:21 – Lessons Learned in Real Estate
34:41 – Financial Insights from the First Deal
36:50 – Advice for First-Time Investors
38:06 – Permitting and Construction Challenges
40:58 – Transitioning to Short-Term Rentals
42:28 – Exploring Hospitality Opportunities
45:52 – Hotel Acquisition Strategies
50:02 – Advice for Aspiring Hotel Owners
52:36 – Time Management for Multiple Ventures

In this episode of The Lo-Down, Lorenzo Mercado sits down with Tony Hoong — better known as The CPA Dude — to break down practical, legal tax strategies that can help you keep more of what you earn in 2025 and beyond.

Whether you’re a W2 employee, side hustler, small business owner, or real estate investor, this episode is packed with actionable tips your CPA probably isn’t telling you. Stick around to the end so you don't miss any key strategies that could save you thousands of dollars.

We cover:

-The Building of the CPADude Tax Firm
-How W2 workers can reduce taxes
-Deductions most people miss and how to audit-proof your finances
-How to use the Augusta Rule to rent your home to your business — tax-free
-Real estate investor strategies like bonus depreciation and cost segregation
-Property Business & Entity Formation

Tony simplifies the complex and delivers strategies you can start implementing today.

Please give a 5 STAR REVIEW on Spotify or Apple Podcast and SHARE this episode.

-----

👥 Connect with Tony Hoong:
Website: https://thecpadude.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/TheCPADude_


🚀 Connect with Lorenzo Mercado
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lorenzo.mercado_
Website: https://www.mercasaventures.com

🎙️Podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lo-down/id1764777761
🎙️Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YjwXXjvFT3mqve6uMF983?si=d2501028127246f3
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Lorenzo.Mercado

-----

💬 Like this episode?
Share it with a friend who needs to hear it!

💡 Ready to stop overpaying the IRS? Hit play.

In this episode of The Lo-Down, Lorenzo Mercado sits down with Charles Lee, founder and CEO of Palmetto Superfoods — one of the fastest-growing açaí bowl brands in California.

What started as a single store in San Francisco has quickly become one of the most talked-about health food brands in California. Charles shares how he went from concept to execution, the mindset it took to scale brick-and-mortar, and why a focus on product quality over hype has been the key to long-term growth. From lessons in branding and leadership to scaling a brick-and-mortar business the right way, this episode is packed with insight for anyone looking to build a multi-million dollar brand from the ground up.

If you're an entrepreneur, real estate investor, or aspiring founder — this one's for you.

Topics Include:

• The early days of launching a food concept from scratch
• Why obsessing over the product is more important than marketing
• Lessons learned from opening multiple physical locations
• Branding vs. experience: how to get both right
• Building a team and company culture in food & beverage
• The biggest myths about starting a food business

-----

🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on Real Estate, Business, and Taking Action:

👥 Connect with Charles Lee:
Website: https://www.palmettosuperfoods.com
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/chacharleslee/

🚀 Let’s Connect:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lorenzo.mercado_/

Website: https://www.mercasaventures.com

🎙️Podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lo-down/id1764777761

🎙️Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YjwXXjvFT3mqve6uMF983?si=d2501028127246f3

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Lorenzo.Mercado

💬 Like this episode?
Leave a five star review on your favorite streaming platform and share with a friend who would find value.

In this solo episode, Lorenzo Mercado pulls back the curtain on his latest moves in real estate. He shares real lessons from his recent house flips—including costly delays—and how those setbacks are shaping his mindset. Lorenzo also dives into his next big play: boutique hotel investing. He breaks down why he’s making the shift, what he’s learning, and how it fits into his long-term vision of building wealth and freedom. The episode wraps with a candid Q&A where Lorenzo answers listener questions on flipping mistakes, turning pro, and what success really looks like.

-----

Like what you hear?
Subscribe to The Lo-Down, drop a 5-star review, and share it with someone who would find value. Thanks for tuning in.

🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on Real estate, Business, and Taking Action👥

-----

🚀 Let’s Connect:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lorenzo.mercado_/
Website: https://www.mercasaventures.com
Podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lo-down/id1764777761
Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YjwXXjvFT3mqve6uMF983?si=d2501028127246f3
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Lorenzo.Mercado

In this episode, Lorenzo Mercado sits down with Clay and Jonathan Velarde—brother entrepreneurs who turned a $15K investment into Parking Pros, a thriving valet and parking shuttle company.

They share how they went from working in their father’s valet business to launching their own operation during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. The conversation dives deep into their growth journey, the challenges of standing out in a competitive industry, and the strategies that helped them scale.

Clay and Jonathan open up about the power of teamwork, customer service, and adapting to market shifts. They also talk about documenting their startup journey on social media, making smart investments, and the importance of marketing in business success. Plus, they share wild stories from the valet world—and a few game-changing books that shaped their entrepreneurial mindset.

If you're building a business, thinking about starting one, or just love real stories about grit and growth—this one’s for you.

Like what you hear?
Subscribe to The Lo-Down, drop a 5-star review, and share it with someone who would find value. Thanks for tuning in.

---

🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on Real estate, Business, and Taking Action👥

Connect with Jonathan Velarde:
Website: https://valetparkingpros.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parkingmogul

Connect with Clay Velarde:
Website: https://valetparkingpros.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clayvelarde

Listen to the Get After It Podcast:
https://open.spotify.com/show/2H4HRXUN8IEhs79vtgmcaU?si=7bdb6d0500574763

-----

🚀 Let’s Connect:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lorenzo.mercado_/

Website: https://www.mercasaventures.com
Podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lo-down/id1764777761
Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YjwXXjvFT3mqve6uMF983?si=d2501028127246f3
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Lorenzo.Mercado