In this episode of The Real Estate Ride, we dive into the gritty realities of working with contractors in the real estate world. From navigating the maze of hiring reliable professionals to managing unexpected project hurdles, Jay and I share our firsthand experiences and hard-earned lessons. We talk candidly about the journey that led us to start our own construction company, why planning is crucial, and how to avoid common pitfalls whether you’re flipping your first home or managing multiple properties.

We also explore what it really takes to maintain control over your projects, including creating working interviews for new hires, understanding local permit requirements, and mastering change orders. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or just getting started, this episode is packed with practical advice and cautionary tales to keep your investments on track and on budget.

Key Takeaways

1. Have a Clear Plan Before You Start – Know what you want, document it, and communicate it clearly to avoid missteps and unexpected expenses.

2. Vet Your Contractors Thoroughly – Ask for referrals, set expectations early, and consider working interviews to gauge skills before handing over projects.

3. Local Rules Matter – Understand your city or county’s licensing and permitting requirements to stay compliant and avoid costly mistakes.

Timeline Summary

[0:00] - Why every investor needs a plan before hiring a contractor

[2:27] - Our motivation for launching a construction company

[5:03] - The importance of change orders and clear communication

[6:22] - Growing our construction team and the challenges that came with it

[7:16] - Teaching our daughter real estate by flipping a house for her first car

[9:20] - Tips for coordinating multiple contractor bids in a tight schedule

[10:05] - A shocking price range example from a Florida roof replacement

[11:05] - What to expect when paying contractors and protecting your investment

[12:39] - How we train and test contractors with a hands-on working interview

[13:10] - Knowing your city’s permit rules and licensing requirements

[15:30] - Why defining your renovation plan adds value and saves money

[18:24] - Small planning details that could cost big money if overlooked

[22:22] - Final thoughts on due diligence and sticking to your plan

Links & Resources

• Connect with us: Jay@jandannieadkins.com | Annie@jandannieadkins.com

Enjoyed this episode?

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In this episode, Jay and I dive deep into how we set intentional, actionable goals for our personal lives and businesses—and how you can do the same. We’re not about vague resolutions that fizzle out by February. We’re talking about creating a vision with real, measurable steps and accountability to actually get things done.

Whether you’re balancing business with family, trying to rediscover your purpose, or looking to reframe your mindset to “How can I?” instead of “I can’t,” this episode will inspire and challenge you. We share insights from our own lives—including flipping houses, building lifestyle-driven businesses, and helping our daughter buy a car with her own real estate deal! Plus, we introduce our “Wheel of Life” framework to help you evaluate and align every area of your life with your vision.

Episode Timeline:

[0:00] – Introduction

[1:27] – Why we avoid resolutions and set measurable goals instead

[2:30] – Using accountability groups and coaching to stay on track

[5:41] – Building flexibility into your business and life

[9:20] – Flipping your mindset from “I can’t” to “How can I?”

[12:05] – Teaching our daughter how to flip a house to buy her first car

[14:17] – Why manifestation requires work, not just intention

[18:20] – A coaching story: how cutting Starbucks led to quitting a job

[21:21] – Why we turned down big real estate deals for a balanced lifestyle

[23:12] – The 8 key life categories in our Wheel of Life

[30:03] – Turning spiritual habits into daily rituals

[33:15] – From running half a mile to an Ironman: Jay’s fitness journey

[36:08] – Mike shares his health journey and ditching bread & dairy

[44:13] – Goal stacking: combining family time with wellness habits

[47:43] – Money, business, and how to align income with your values

5 Key Takeaways:

1. Vision beats resolution – Resolutions often fail, but a clear, actionable vision sets the foundation for sustainable success.

2. Accountability accelerates growth – Sharing goals with a group or coach creates real momentum and follow-through.

3. Flexibility is freedom – Building a lifestyle-focused business means you can show up for your family and your goals.

4. Mindset matters – Replacing “I can’t” with “How can I?” opens new paths and possibilities.

5. Goals require strategy – Big goals need micro-steps, measurable waypoints, and intentional planning to become reality.

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In this episode of The Real Estate Ride, Annie and I dive into the essential foundations of creative financing. If you’ve ever been confused by terms like “lease option,” “land trust,” or “subject to,” you’re not alone—and this conversation is here to bring clarity. We break down these powerful strategies, share our personal experiences using them, and offer practical tips for getting started the right way.

Whether you’re a real estate newbie or brushing up on your investing toolkit, this episode will help you understand the legal ins and outs, common pitfalls, and the real opportunities that creative financing offers. Tune in to hear how we structure deals, protect ourselves legally, and tailor each approach to meet different seller and market needs.

Timeline Summary

[0:00] - Introduction

[1:10] - Defining lease options and why they’re a powerful entry point in creative financing

[2:56] - Legal changes around sandwich leases and how we’ve adapted

[4:30] - Using lease options for rentals and Airbnbs

[5:00] - Understanding land trusts and the benefits of shared ownership

[6:43] - Gaining control through trustee roles and trust structure

[8:15] - Explaining land contracts and how they work as contracts for deed

[10:04] - Using land contracts to avoid large down payments

[10:21] - What “subject to” financing means and when to use it

[11:26] - Quick overview and how we’ll explore each method further in the course

5 Key Takeaways

1. Lease options give you control without ownership, allowing flexible terms and early cash flow opportunities.

2. Sandwich lease options are no longer legal in some states—always confirm your local laws.

3. Land trusts enable shared control and privacy, making it easier to structure creative partnerships.

4. Land contracts (or contracts for deed) offer a pathway to ownership without hefty down payments.

5. Subject to financing allows you to take over properties with existing mortgages—just be sure to understand the risks and terms.

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to rate, follow, and leave a review. Don’t forget to share it with someone you know who’s looking to build wealth through real estate. We’ll see you in the next one!

In this episode of The Real Estate Ride, we dive into the real talk behind real estate partnerships—why they’re so common, how they can go wrong, and what you absolutely must have in place to protect yourself and your investments. Whether you’re teaming up with lifelong friends, family, or new business associates, having a rock-solid agreement is key to keeping both the peace and your profits.

Jay and I (Annie) share our personal experiences—the good, the bad, and the legally ugly—to highlight just how crucial it is to outline responsibilities, profit splits, exit strategies, and communication methods from the very beginning. From joint venture setups to full-blown LLC partnerships, we walk through real-life examples and practical tips to help you structure your deals for long-term success.

Episode Timeline & Highlights

[0:00] - Why trusting your partner isn’t enough when money’s on the line

[1:12] - The real reasons people partner in real estate—and why fear plays a big part

[2:17] - Types of partnerships: Joint ventures vs. LLCs

[4:06] - How to fairly divide roles, risks, and profits in JV agreements

[6:44] - Structuring rehab draws and payment phases with accountability

[7:57] - Big benefits of JV deals: no credit, fast funding, multiple flips

[10:41] - Watch out: when one partner does all the work but only gets half the profit

[12:08] - Why roles & responsibilities reviews can save your partnership

[13:36] - Vision exercises and personality tests—essential before you start

[15:28] - Don’t skip your “separation plan” aka real estate prenup

[20:34] - Jay’s horror story: how a trusted partner stole a property

[22:25] - The legal and clean way to dissolve a partnership

5 Key Takeaways

1. Even long-term friends need contracts – Relationships don’t protect you from partnership fallout. Legal documents do.

2. Joint ventures can be great for beginners – Especially if you’re working with cash partners who want hands-off involvement.

3. Lay out every responsibility and timeline – From who pays holding costs to how rehab funds are drawn and released.

4. Have a vision alignment conversation – Do this before jumping into business. Misaligned goals are a recipe for trouble.

5. Always include a clear exit strategy – Know what happens if one of you wants out. Define the process up front.

Links & Resources

• DISC Personality Test (Tony Robbins): https://www.tonyrobbins.com/disc/

• Predictive Index info: https://www.predictiveindex.com/

If this episode gave you some serious “aha” moments, help us out by rating, following, and sharing The Real Estate Ride! Your reviews mean the world to us and help more real estate pros find this show.

Hey, it’s Jay and Annie here, and in this episode of The Real Estate Ride, we dive deep into the evolving world of house hacking—what we’re calling “House Hacking 2.0.” With housing prices and interest rates reaching new heights, creative solutions are more essential than ever. We’re sharing innovative strategies for maximizing your property’s earning potential, including the rise of ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units), room rentals, and even boarding house setups.

You’ll hear real-world stories from our coaching clients who are successfully living for free—or even profiting—by renting out parts of their homes. We’ll also break down what to watch out for, from zoning regulations to managing utilities, and offer guidance on getting started with little or no money down. Whether you’re new to real estate or looking to optimize your current property, this episode is packed with insights to help you rethink your living space as a wealth-building tool.

Timeline Summary:

[0:00] - Why ADUs are the future of house hacking

[2:54] - Renting to traveling healthcare professionals via Furnished Finder

[4:01] - Real-life case studies: room rentals and converting a home into a boarding house

[6:22] - The responsibilities and expenses of managing a room-by-room rental

[10:09] - The “starter pack” approach to Airbnb amenities

[11:26] - How buying multifamily units can let you live rent-free

[13:02] - Zoning restrictions and why checking local regulations is critical

[14:07] - Using grants and low-down-payment loans to buy investment properties

[17:31] - Creative financing strategies: lease options, land contracts, and subject-to deals

[22:26] - Zoning variances and how to navigate approvals for ADUs and conversions

5 Key Takeaways:

1. ADUs are on the rise – Converting garages, basements, or sheds into livable rental spaces offers a low-risk, high-reward way to house hack.

2. Short and mid-term rentals – Platforms like Furnished Finder cater specifically to traveling professionals and can generate steady income with more control over your tenant selection.

3. House hacking isn’t just for the young – From young adults to families, creative strategies like room rentals and owner financing are being used across generations.

4. Check your zoning laws – Always confirm what’s allowed in your area before investing in ADUs or multifamily properties. A missed regulation could double your rehab costs.

5. Creative financing options exist – You don’t always need a bank. Strategies like seller financing, lease options, and subject-to deals can make owning property more accessible.

Closing Note:

If this episode gave you some fresh ideas or helped you see your property in a new light, do us a favor—rate, follow, and review the podcast! And don’t forget to share it with someone who’s ready to make their home start working for them. See you next time on The Real Estate Ride!

In this episode of The Real Estate Ride, we dive into a transformative conversation about the power of creating a clear, compelling vision for your life. Annie and Jay pull back the curtain on how they crafted their personal vision—from working 80-hour weeks to living a life with balance, purpose, and freedom. If you’ve ever felt stuck or unclear about your next steps, this episode will help you start building a blueprint for the life you truly want.

We unpack how to use the “Wheel of Life” to assess where you are and where you want to go, and how to turn dreams into actionable goals. We also share personal stories, real-life setbacks, and the mindset shifts that made it all possible. Whether you’re new to vision planning or ready to update yours, this episode offers practical tools and inspiration to help you live intentionally and on purpose.

Timeline Summary

[0:00] - Introduction

[2:27] - Exploring the staggering stat that 83% of people don’t set goals—and why writing them down is a game changer

[5:00] - How Oprah Winfrey uses vision boards and neuroscience to manifest her goals

[8:05] - Annie and Jay share their journey from burnout to balance, living their original vision of 25-hour workweeks and five weeks of vacation

[14:44] - Understanding and using the “Wheel of Life” to evaluate the key areas of your life

[20:18] - Real talk: why you shouldn’t limit your vision by current circumstances like money or time

[25:09] - The power of public accountability and how it helped Annie transform her health and fitness

[33:40] - Why you should remove filters like job schedules and income limits when designing your ideal calendar

[41:12] - Goal stacking: how to blend life goals for maximum impact and fulfillment

[45:32] - Writing your vision in the present tense and tapping into your emotional “why”

[52:12] - Breaking down big dreams into weekly actionable tasks for long-term success

5 Key Takeaways

1. Write It Down: You’re 30 times more likely to succeed when your goals are written and reviewed regularly.

2. Think Without Limits: Create your vision without financial, time, or current reality constraints—your only limit is your mindset.

3. Use the Wheel of Life: A powerful tool to assess and improve all areas of your life, from health to personal growth.

4. Build Accountability: Sharing your vision with coaches or peers dramatically boosts your follow-through and success.

5. Action Triggers Progress: Break down your vision into small, specific weekly actions to steadily move toward your goals.

Links & Resources

• Contact: Annie@jayandannieadkins.com | Jay@jayandannieadkins.com

• Tools Mentioned: Wheel of Life assessment, Calendar Exercise, Vision Writing Templates

If this episode resonated with you, don’t forget to rate, follow, and review The Real Estate Ride. Share it with someone who’s ready to start living with purpose. Let’s build your dream life—together.

Hey there, it’s Jay and Annie! In today’s episode of The Real Estate Ride, we’re diving deep into the many creative and practical ways you can fund both the purchase and rehab of your investment properties. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or just getting started, understanding your financing options is crucial to scaling your real estate business — and keeping more of your own money in your pocket.

We’re sharing everything from private money strategies and 401(k) rollovers to HELOCs, partnerships, and hard money lenders. We talk about real-life examples, mistakes we’ve made, and the smarter methods we use now that we wish we knew when we started. If you’ve ever wondered how to get into a deal with zero of your own cash or how to structure win-win terms with a lender, this episode is packed with actionable insights.

Key Takeaways:

1. Traditional banks are often not the most efficient or cost-effective way to fund investment properties — explore private lenders and alternative options.

2. You can leverage retirement accounts, life insurance policies, and equity in your home or others’ to fund real estate deals creatively.

3. Vetting your lender thoroughly can save your deal — a reliable lender can make or break your transaction timeline and credibility.

Episode Highlights & Timeline

[0:00] - Introduction

[1:14] - Why we rarely use traditional banks anymore

[3:06] - Cash is king — but it doesn’t always have to be your cash

[4:25] - Using old 401(k)s and self-directed retirement accounts for funding

[7:39] - Leveraging whole life insurance policies for real estate investing

[10:02] - Understanding and using HELOCs creatively and safely

[14:44] - The power of partnerships and joint ventures when you have no capital

[18:29] - What to look for in a trustworthy hard money lender

[21:06] - Typical loan terms, down payments, and interest rates across lenders

[23:00] - Traditional banks: when they make sense and when to avoid them

Links & Resources

• Quest IRA (Texas-based)

• Kingdom Trust (based in Wyoming/Kentucky)

• Hard money lenders mentioned: Wildcat Lending, Fund That Flip, RCN Capital

• 
  

• If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to rate, follow, and leave a review — and don’t forget to share it with someone who’s ready to take the leap into real estate investing. Catch you in the next episode, and as always, happy house hunting!

In this episode of The Real Estate Ride, I walk you through the ins and outs of a live owner finance deal where I acquired a property with none of my own money. We dive deep into the numbers, from rehab costs to rental income, and explore two strategies for working with investors or using loans to fund deals. Whether you’re an experienced investor or just dipping your toes into creative financing, this episode gives you a clear, real-world example of how to make a deal work — even when you’re short on cash.

We also touch on an inspiring tenant success story, and I share insights into why owner financing is one of my favorite tools in real estate. You’ll walk away with practical strategies you can apply to your own deals, plus the motivation to get moving on your next project.

Episode Highlights:

[0:00] - How I bought a property with zero money down

[1:46] - Breaking down a 15% investor return and profit split

[2:59] - Purchase price, rehab estimates, and making it rent-ready

[8:03] - A fast lease-up story and helping a tenant in need

[10:52] - Why tax season is prime time for lease-option deals

[14:00] - Creative ways to reduce rehab costs through partnerships

[18:00] - The pros and cons of different flooring choices for rentals

[26:04] - Calculating a 30%+ annual return on investment

[32:04] - Partnering vs. borrowing: choosing the right funding approach

[35:00] - Why I love owner financing over traditional bank loans

[36:04] - Next steps for lining up funding and contractors

5 Key Takeaways

1. You can buy real estate with none of your own money — if you’re willing to be creative with financing.

2. A well-structured owner finance deal can deliver over 30% annual ROI.

3. Tax season is the perfect time to lock in lease-option deals, thanks to buyers with cash in hand.

4. Partnering with contractors or tradespeople can dramatically cut your rehab costs.

5. Choosing between a partner and a lender depends on whether you want to split profits or keep the full upside.

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, follow, and review the podcast. Share it with someone you know who’s ready to start or scale their investing journey. Your support helps us keep bringing you real-life deal breakdowns and actionable strategies!