In this episode, Jay and I break down the exact checklist we use to decide whether a house is worth flipping. We’re not just talking about what’s inside the four walls—we’re looking at neighborhood dynamics, timelines, rehab complications, and resale realities.

We share stories from our own deals (wins and mistakes) and walk you through what to budget for, what red flags to look for, and how to analyze whether your flip will actually be profitable—or if you’re better off walking away.

Episode Timeline:

[0:00] – The flip-or-not framework we use on every property preview

[0:47] – Why what’s next door might kill your flip (true story)

[1:31] – Trashy neighbors, rentals, and the risks they bring

[2:13] – How crime and sex offender registries factor into our decisions

[3:30] – Pit bulls, fencing, and unexpected rehab budget line items

[4:17] – Neighborhood makeup: why 90% rentals might be a red flag

[5:02] – Timeline matters: how long will this rehab actually take?

[5:57] – Utility delays and what they’ll cost you in holding time

[7:10] – Why every big rehab needs a 15% cushion for unknowns

[8:02] – Scheduling trades: how delays compound fast

[9:10] – Are you managing the rehab yourself or hiring it out?

[10:18] – Can you add value through layout changes or additions?

[11:04] – Turning formal spaces into master suites

[12:33] – Comps, finishes, and how to check for resale strength

[13:14] – What to look for in sold properties and what it tells you

[14:20] – How to use sold data to gauge pricing and market speed

[14:51] – Final recap and action steps for your next deal

5 Key Takeaways:

1. The neighborhood matters just as much as the house itself.

2. Always build in time, money, and patience for the unexpected.

3. Strategic layout changes can boost resale value dramatically.

4. Strong comps and buyer demand should guide your budget and offer.

5. Flipping is a math equation—check the numbers before chasing the potential.

If this episode helped sharpen your flip analysis skills, follow, rate, and review The Real Estate Ride. And don’t forget to share it with a fellow investor before they make an expensive mistake.

In this episode, we close out the Kickstarter vision series by helping you craft a personal and business vision that actually moves the needle. Jay and I walk through what it means to write a vision from your future self, how to reverse-engineer your next steps, and the power of building your calendar around the life you want—not the hustle you’re stuck in.

We also dig into why most people stay stuck in confusion, how to set boundaries that align with your goals, and how our own vision work gave us clarity, peace, and purpose. Whether you’re building your first rental or scaling your portfolio, this episode is about getting crystal clear on where you’re going—and who you need to be to get there.

Episode Timeline:

[0:00] – Why this is the most powerful part of the Kickstarter series

[0:49] – The vision exercise that changed our business forever

[1:41] – Write from your future self—what do you want your life to look like?

[2:39] – How to use vision to realign your calendar and commitments

[3:25] – Our shift from reactive living to intentional planning

[4:10] – What we removed from our life to make room for growth

[5:23] – How your calendar reveals your true priorities

[6:11] – Vision is the foundation for your goals, boundaries, and next steps

[7:12] – Why hustle isn’t the goal—freedom is

[8:09] – You don’t need more hours, you need better alignment

[9:25] – Creating daily habits that reflect the life you’re building

[10:31] – The mindset shift from scarcity to purpose

[11:42] – How to check in with your vision regularly

[13:04] – Giving yourself permission to evolve and adjust

[14:00] – Final encouragement: clarity unlocks consistency

5 Key Takeaways:

1. Write your vision from the future—you need to see it to build it.

2. Your calendar and your commitments must reflect your values.

3. Let go of what’s not aligned to make space for what is.

4. Freedom is the goal—not hustle, noise, or overcommitment.

5. Clarity leads to consistency, which leads to real results.

If this episode helped you zoom out and get grounded, please rate, review, and follow The Real Estate Ride. Then share it with someone who’s ready to build more than just a business—they’re ready to build a life.

In this episode, we walk you through all the creative ways to fund both the purchase and rehab of your real estate deals—even if you’re starting with zero of your own money. From hard money and private lending to 401(k) strategies, HELOCs, and joint ventures, we break down what we’ve used, what works best, and what to avoid.

You’ll learn how we scaled beyond traditional banks, the terms we negotiate, and why building a flexible lender network is the secret to doing more deals with less out of pocket. If you’re looking to flip or BRRRR without cash on hand, this episode will give you the practical tools and lender strategies to move forward.

Episode Timeline:

[0:00] – Why we rarely use traditional banks anymore

[1:02] – What hard money is and how it can let you scale faster

[2:18] – How to use cash without it being your own

[3:27] – Using self-directed 401(k)s—yours or someone else’s

[4:42] – Vetting and using IRA custodians like Quest and Kingdom Trust

[6:31] – Borrowing from whole life insurance cash value

[8:27] – Structuring private loans: interest, timing, and flexibility

[9:04] – HELOCs (home equity lines of credit) and when to use them

[10:41] – Why we don’t recommend 100% leverage

[11:34] – Credit unions vs. banks for HELOCs

[13:08] – Using joint ventures creatively and responsibly

[14:42] – Private money lending through networking and partnerships

[15:14] – Getting rehab draw money upfront vs. reimbursement

[16:16] – Building long-term relationships with private lenders

[17:31] – Pitch templates and credibility tools for new investors

[17:54] – How to vet a hard money lender before working with them

[19:38] – Current terms: down payments, interest rates, draw timelines

[20:27] – Getting a 1-year line of credit through a money broker

[21:15] – How bad lenders can kill your deal credibility

[22:01] – Using traditional banks as a last resort and what to expect

[23:16] – Community banks, credit scores, and typical underwriting timelines

[24:17] – Market shifts, rate updates, and checking terms quarterly

[24:48] – Join our free Facebook group to continue the conversation

5 Key Takeaways:

1. There are at least 10 ways to fund a rehab—banks are just one.

2. Self-directed IRAs and life insurance policies are powerful, underused tools.

3. HELOCs and credit unions can give you speed and flexibility.

4. Private lenders value communication and documentation—keep them informed.

5. The lender you choose can make or break your deal—vet them like a partner.

If this episode helped you think differently about money and deal-making, share it with a fellow investor. And don’t forget to follow, rate, and review The Real Estate Ride.

In this episode, Jay and I continue the Kickstarter series by helping you bridge the gap between big, long-term vision and what you can actually start doing right now. We talk honestly about time, priorities, and why waiting for the “perfect season” is usually the thing holding people back.

This conversation is packed with real-life examples—from lifestyle goals like travel and freedom, to real estate strategies, health goals, and cash-flow planning. We walk through how to create waypoints that allow you to test your vision before going all in, so progress feels achievable instead of overwhelming.

Episode Timeline:

[0:01] – Why time is the most valuable asset we have

[0:42] – Breaking down big vision into doable pieces

[1:59] – Planning life first, then fitting business into it

[3:07] – Rethinking ownership: boats, rentals, and access vs. assets

[5:27] – Why convenience and time often matter more than status

[6:39] – Designing your lifestyle instead of defaulting to hustle

[8:02] – Using waypoints to test a vision before committing fully

[8:41] – The Florida example: easing into a major life change

[9:23] – Health, fitness, and setting realistic, measurable goals

[11:04] – Cash-flow conversations and building income without burnout

[12:50] – Turning weekly habits into long-term results

[14:54] – Short-term rentals, hospitals, and intentional acquisition strategies

[16:13] – Setting small, achievable targets that compound over time

[18:05] – Why clarity beats comparison every time

[20:07] – Aligning income goals with the lifestyle you actually want

[21:47] – Stacking habits and protecting quality time

[24:00] – Putting the vision on the calendar so it actually happens

[25:21] – Final encouragement: progress over perfection

5 Key Takeaways:

1. Time is the ultimate currency—build your business to protect it.

2. You don’t need to go all in to move forward; start with waypoints.

3. Access can replace ownership when lifestyle is the real goal.

4. Big visions become achievable when broken into daily actions.

5. Your calendar should reflect your values, not just your to-do list.

Links & Resources:

• Join our free Facebook group for real estate and lifestyle conversations: [Insert link]

• Vision templates and exercises shared during the Kickstarter series

• Learn more about working with us at: JayAndAnnieAdkins.com

If this episode helped you rethink how you approach your goals, please rate, review, and follow The Real Estate Ride. And share it with someone who needs permission to start living their vision now—not someday.

In this episode, I sit down with real estate investor and coach Stephanie O’Brien to unpack her journey from getting licensed in 2006 to becoming a powerhouse in short sales, investing, and now coaching others through major transitions. Stephanie shares how the 2008 crash shaped her career, why she chose to specialize in solving tough problems, and how that path eventually led to her own personal and professional reinvention.

We dive deep into the mindset shifts required to go from chaos to clarity, how to recognize when you’re out of alignment, and why letting go of what no longer serves you is often the key to leveling up. If you’re feeling stuck or stretched thin, this conversation will help you realign and reset with purpose.

Episode Timeline:

[0:00] – Intro: how Stephanie got started in real estate pre-2008 crash

[1:02] – Why she leaned into short sales instead of running from the chaos

[2:21] – Building a business focused on helping people through hard transitions

[3:45] – The power of coaching and clarity during seasons of confusion

[5:17] – How to know when your goals are no longer in alignment

[6:29] – Breaking free from the “more is better” mentality

[7:38] – Getting honest about burnout and redirection

[8:50] – Stephanie’s own reinvention journey and what sparked it

[10:04] – From transactional real estate to transformational coaching

[11:16] – Creating margin in your life and business

[12:25] – Why entrepreneurship often reveals what we’ve ignored

[13:48] – Setting new standards and boundaries after burnout

[15:12] – Stephanie’s current coaching work and what lights her up

[16:03] – What alignment looks like—and how to find it again

[17:36] – Final words of encouragement for anyone stuck in the grind

5 Key Takeaways:

1. Realignment often starts with being honest about what’s not working.

2. Short sales and creative investing solve real problems for real people.

3. Burnout is a signpost—not a failure.

4. Your next level may require releasing what worked in a past season.

5. Coaching and community can create clarity faster than going it alone.

Links & Resources:

• Connect with Stephanie on Instagram: @the.real.stephanieobrien

• Coaching or speaking inquiries: Stephanie’s Website

• Join our free Facebook group for real estate investors: [Insert link]

• Learn more at JayAndAnnieAdkins.com

If this episode gave you the clarity or courage to pivot, rate and review The Real Estate Ride. And don’t forget to share it with someone who needs to hear they’re allowed to evolve.

In this episode, Jay and I break down exactly who’s on our real estate investment dream team—and why having the right people in the right seats has been key to scaling our business. From contractors and lenders to attorneys and agents, we walk through every role we rely on to flip, buy, rehab, and manage rentals efficiently.

We also talk through how we vet team members, how we use personality assessments to match people to the right jobs, and why you don’t need to do everything (or hire full-time) to build momentum. Whether you’re just starting or ready to scale, this episode gives you the blueprint for building a support system that frees up your time and grows your bottom line.

Episode Timeline:

[0:00] – Why we’re sharing our team structure and how it helped us surpass our 2024 goals

[1:12] – Your time’s highest and best use: start there

[2:03] – The difference between hiring and strategically outsourcing

[3:09] – Using DISC and Predictive Index to assign the right roles

[4:25] – Core roles in your REI team: who we rely on every day

[5:44] – Attorneys: eviction, litigation, contracts, trusts, and why you need all 4

[6:59] – Mortgage lenders and creative financing partners

[8:02] – Title companies: what they do and why they’re critical

[9:31] – Hard money and private lenders: how we structure these deals

[11:12] – Contractors and trades: how to vet, test, and protect yourself

[12:49] – Why we use U-Haul over dumpsters for cleanouts

[13:55] – Property managers and their role in systematizing rentals

[14:38] – Local realtors and off-market lead sources

[15:49] – Our Facebook group and networking: finding your people

[16:32] – You don’t need full-time hires—just reliable, aligned partners

[17:20] – How this team structure keeps our business scalable

5 Key Takeaways:

1. Your time is your most valuable asset—build a team so you can protect it.

2. Use personality tools to place people in the roles they’ll thrive in.

3. You don’t need a huge payroll—just reliable pros in the right seats.

4. Creative financing partners and attorneys are non-negotiables.

5. Your network is your shortcut—connect, post, ask, and stay visible.

If this episode helped you rethink how to structure your business, rate, review, and follow The Real Estate Ride. Don’t go it alone—build your A-team and scale with confidence.

In this episode, Jay and I reflect on how our vision for life and business has evolved—and how we intentionally build a real estate business that fuels our freedom, not just our finances. We unpack how thinking creatively about resources, like boat or airplane clubs, shifted our mindset away from ownership and toward lifestyle design.

This conversation dives into why your calendar should reflect your values, how to move closer to your ideal life using “waypoints,” and why waiting for retirement isn’t the answer. We also talk candidly about creating multiple streams of income and real-life examples from our community of how people are aligning their goals with their daily choices.

Episode Timeline:

[0:01] – Why time—not money—is the most valuable asset

[0:42] – How our vision work turned dreams into actual calendar items

[1:59] – The boat ownership mindset shift and what we learned from boat clubs

[3:07] – Why we started exploring airplane clubs instead of private plane ownership

[5:27] – What this all has to do with designing a life that fits you—not the other way around

[8:02] – Our “Florida test run” and using waypoints to validate vision

[11:04] – Case study: laundromats, seller financing, and building cash flow creatively

[13:35] – Setting health goals with measurable steps and long-term focus

[15:28] – Short-term rental strategy targeting travel nurses

[18:44] – Why we prefer paying interest to individuals over banks

[25:01] – A discussion on hedge funds, portfolio debt, and what we’re seeing in the market

[33:59] – Comparing your income to others—and the real definition of success

[36:39] – Building multiple businesses and staying focused on your version of wealth

[43:48] – How a camping trip in Hawaii became a lesson in resourcefulness

[45:21] – Final encouragement: calendar your vision, write it like it’s already happened

5 Key Takeaways:

1. Design your business to serve your life—not the other way around.

2. Waypoints help you test your big dreams before going all in.

3. You don’t have to own everything—use clubs, rentals, and partnerships to live your vision now.

4. Creative cash-flowing assets (like laundromats or STRs) can support long-term freedom.

5. Writing your vision as if it already happened helps it become real.

If this episode helped you reframe how you think about time, income, and lifestyle design—please rate and review The Real Estate Ride, and don’t forget to share it with someone who’s ready to start building freedom today.

In this episode, I walk you through how Jay and I find and structure creative financing deals—without relying on banks, credit checks, or big down payments. If you’ve ever felt stuck because of limited access to capital or credit, this episode shows you how to make real estate happen anyway.

From $10 purchases to lease options and land trusts, I unpack the exact ways we acquire properties using seller financing and subject-to strategies. I also break down how we talk to sellers, how we protect both parties, and how we exit these deals with profit and peace of mind.

Episode Timeline:

[0:00] – Why I kicked Jay off the mic today 😉

[0:42] – Our full real estate background in a nutshell

[2:15] – How we lost it all in 2005—and why we now help others avoid that

[3:20] – What creative financing actually means (subject-to, seller finance, etc.)

[3:39] – Where we find these deals: Zillow, Facebook, Craigslist & more

[5:07] – How we use bandit signs, call tracking, and smart marketing

[6:39] – What we say to sellers and how we structure the conversation

[9:05] – The $10 house we bought—and how we made it work

[10:12] – Explaining “payments for equity” in plain language

[11:26] – How we protect sellers and ourselves with land trusts

[13:27] – Due diligence: utilities, inspections, and title checks

[15:16] – Why maintaining seller relationships post-close is critical

[16:01] – What we do after acquisition: tenant vs. tenant-buyer

[17:29] – How we structure lease-option agreements for tenant buyers

[18:09] – How we price deals and work with future homeowners

[19:08] – Why vision drives our whole business model

[20:11] – Building a plan backwards from your goals

[21:14] – Creating your power team to support creative deals

[22:36] – What your market allows (and why that matters)

[24:22] – How to balance time vs. money in your strategy

[25:44] – Hiring your first helper (even just 10 hrs/week)

[26:07] – Why vision-focused planning has kept us consistent for 20 years

[26:52] – Free checklist offer & where to get it

5 Key Takeaways:

1. Creative financing gives you a way to buy without banks—if you understand the seller’s needs.

2. You can find great leads for free if you know where to look (and how to follow up).

3. Land trusts and lease options protect all parties while creating real profit potential.

4. A strong seller relationship and clear communication are your best closing tools.

5. Your business should be built around your vision—not just chasing the next deal.

If this episode sparked new ideas for how to grow your portfolio creatively, share it with a friend who needs to hear it. And as always—rate, review, and follow The Real Estate Ride so we can keep bringing you real stories, real tools, and real estate done your way.