DiscoverThe Big Picture Blueprint: Navigating Land, Real Estate, and Business Success
The Big Picture Blueprint: Navigating Land, Real Estate, and Business Success
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The Big Picture Blueprint: Navigating Land, Real Estate, and Business Success

Author: Dan Haberkost & Mason McDonald

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Join Mason McDonald and Dan Haberkost, two full-time real estate investors that have unlocked financial and geographical independence, as they break down specific tactics and strategies to help you grow your business & increase profitability.

Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned business owner, an employee eyeing passive investment, or simply trying to escape the rat race, you'll walk away with tactical tips and tricks that you can apply immediately. By interviewing top minds in a multitude of industries & niches, Mason and Dan will provide you a roadmap to wealth creation, business success, and an improved lifestyle.

Tune in for your blueprint to success!
138 Episodes
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In this new episode, Dan and Mason walk through what a real “day in the life” looks like when you’re doing land full time, not the highlight reel. They share what they’re actively working on right now, what’s gone wrong inside live deals, and why the start of 2026 already feels different, with buyer sentiment picking up, more showings coming in, and more property moving across their pipeline.They break down how their days actually start, from checking on market listings early so they can be first to make offers, to staying in constant motion between larger tracts, team check ins, and deal specific punch lists.They also get practical about what drives revenue week to week, following up with buyer leads, staying responsive to Facebook inquiries, keeping seller leads organized without burning bridges, and treating CRM hygiene like a non-negotiable. You’ll hear how they manage the “hurry up and wait” parts of due diligence on big acreage, how they schedule the right experts early, and why watching price drops and tracking properties in a CRM can turn an on market listing into a real discount, especially on higher priced land.Tune in to hear how they balance deal flow, team leadership, and personal life, and why being intentional with your time, your follow up, and your offer process is what keeps everything moving.===Key Topics:-A real day in the life of a full time land investor-How on market deals still create major buying opportunities-Daily actions that directly drive revenue-Managing deals pipelines and long due diligence timelines-Protecting time and avoiding work that does not produce income===If you’re selling land and still relying on Facebook messages, you’re making it harder than it needs to be. Acrefy helps land investors create clean, professional dispo websites where buyers can see everything in one place. It saves time, looks legit, and helps you close faster.👉 Get your land dispo website with Acrefy here: https://acrefy.co/blueprint===🚨 Ready to Learn How to Flip Land? 🚨Hey there! Dan and Mason have something exciting for you:🎉 Join our FREE Ground Up Land Community! 🎉Here’s what you’ll get:✅ Expert tips on flipping land✅ Connect with other land investors✅ Ask questions & get real feedback✅ Weekly calls with Dan & Mason – totally free!Don’t wait—take the first step toward land investing success.👉 Join for FREE at https://www.skool.com/grounduplandcommunity===Connect With Us:https://linktr.ee/thebigpictureblueprint
In this new episode, Mason and Dan dig into one of the hardest parts of land investing, making decisions when you don’t have perfect data. They talk about the uncertainty that shows up with bigger tracts and rural subdivides, where there aren’t clean comps, every parcel is unique, and even “great deals” can feel shaky at the moment. Instead of getting stuck in analysis paralysis, they break down how they aim for a “70 percent confident” decision point, enough to act, while still leaving room to verify the details during due diligence.They also share practical ways to build confidence when the market feels unclear. They discuss using demand signals like listing traction, watching how fast good properties move, checking county assessor sales records, leaning on strong local broker relationships, and doing simple demand tests through platforms like Facebook Marketplace or lightweight ad tests. They explain why you can’t just rely on spreadsheets, you have to look closely at why a comp sold low or high, like wetlands, bad access, easements, or even solar and data center factors that can distort prices.Tune in to hear why making offers is often the real unlock, how to set simple rules that keep you disciplined, and how “nice, usable land” can protect you when the numbers still feel uncertain.===Key Topics:-Why waiting for perfect data kills good deals-The 70 percent rule that gets deals moving-How overthinking silently costs you money-Simple ways to test demand before you buy-The real numbers every land investor must know===If you’re selling land and still relying on Facebook messages, you’re making it harder than it needs to be. Acrefy helps land investors create clean, professional dispo websites where buyers can see everything in one place. It saves time, looks legit, and helps you close faster. 👉 Get your land dispo website with Acrefy here: https://acrefy.co/blueprint===🚨 Ready to Learn How to Flip Land? 🚨Hey there! Dan and Mason have something exciting for you:🎉 Join our FREE Ground Up Land Community! 🎉Here’s what you’ll get:✅ Expert tips on flipping land✅ Connect with other land investors✅ Ask questions & get real feedback✅ Weekly calls with Dan & Mason – totally free!Don’t wait—take the first step toward land investing success.👉 Join for FREE at https://www.skool.com/grounduplandcommunity===Connect With Us:https://linktr.ee/thebigpictureblueprint
In this episode, Mason and Dan look back on why they started GroundUp Partners, what worked, what didn’t, and why they ultimately shut it down. They share how the idea came from a real gap in land investing, having more deals than capital, and why funding other people’s deals seemed like a natural next step. Early on, it worked. Deals got funded, returns were solid, and the model proved it could make money.They also get real about where things broke down. The fund was treated like a side project while they were running full time land businesses. They underestimated how much time investor relations, admin work, and structure would take. They talk about having the wrong investor base, unclear roles between them, added stress from regulation and legal costs, and bad market timing that slowed deal flow when it mattered most.Tune in to hear the biggest lessons they took away, why focus matters more than new ideas, what they would do differently next time, and why narrowing their scope is the smartest move going into 2026.===Key Topics:-Why the fund was created in the first place-What worked early and proved the model-Where time, roles, and focus broke down-The impact of investors, regulation, and market timing-Why narrowing focus matters more than starting something new===If you’re selling land and still relying on Facebook messages, you’re making it harder than it needs to be. Acrefy helps land investors create clean, professional dispo websites where buyers can see everything in one place. It saves time, looks legit, and helps you close faster. 👉 Get your land dispo website with Acrefy here: https://acrefy.co/blueprint===🚨 Ready to Learn How to Flip Land? 🚨Hey there! Dan and Mason have something exciting for you:🎉 Join our FREE Ground Up Land Community! 🎉Here’s what you’ll get:✅ Expert tips on flipping land✅ Connect with other land investors✅ Ask questions & get real feedback✅ Weekly calls with Dan & Mason – totally free!Don’t wait—take the first step toward land investing success.👉 Join for FREE at https://www.skool.com/grounduplandcommunity===Connect With Us:https://linktr.ee/thebigpictureblueprint
In this episode, we sit down with Chris Ramirez, a young land investor who went all in on real estate the moment college stopped making sense. He started in houses, tried a little bit of everything during the COVID years, then heard a land podcast and realized he could build something without tenants, repairs, or constant headaches. Three years later, he’s running a simple, repeatable land operation that’s doing real numbers, and he credits a lot of his early momentum to learning from Dan and staying locked in on the basics.We break down what actually drove his growth. He started with direct mail, spent about $1,500 on his first campaign, landed two infill lots, made around $15,000, and quit his warehouse job the next day because it proved the model worked. From there, he evolved from infill to recreational, then shifted into texting at scale because it let him control the conversation, tighten his offers, and follow up like a pro. You’ll also hear the real side of land. Slower markets, deals that sit for months, the mistake of forcing tight spreads, and how local broker insight can save you from celebrating too early. Chris shares a recent deal that looked like a monster win until he learned the property had utility and build challenges, then had to renegotiate hard just to protect the downside. If you’re building a land business, this conversation will help you think more clearly about marketing volume, offer strategy, novations, team leverage, and how to stay steady when the market shifts and the emotions get loud.===Key Topics:-Starting young and choosing land over houses-Building momentum through direct mail and texting-Controlling inputs instead of chasing outcomes-Avoiding forced deals in slower markets-Scaling with simple systems and a small team===If you’re selling land and still relying on Facebook messages, you’re making it harder than it needs to be. Acrefy helps land investors create clean, professional dispo websites where buyers can see everything in one place. It saves time, looks legit, and helps you close faster. 👉 Get your land dispo website with Acrefy here: https://acrefy.co/blueprint===🚨 Ready to Learn How to Flip Land? 🚨Hey there! Dan and Mason have something exciting for you:🎉 Join our FREE Ground Up Land Community! 🎉Here’s what you’ll get:✅ Expert tips on flipping land✅ Connect with other land investors✅ Ask questions & get real feedback✅ Weekly calls with Dan & Mason – totally free!Don’t wait—take the first step toward land investing success.👉 Join for FREE at https://www.skool.com/grounduplandcommunity===Connect With Us:https://linktr.ee/thebigpictureblueprintConnect With Chris Ramirez:Website: https://landportal.com/chrisflipsland/https://chrisflipsland.com/open
In this episode, Mason and Dan do a true “shop talk” catch-up and hit the real stuff that keeps coming up in land right now, deals, wholesalers, learning curves, and why so many people waste time by chasing markets they don’t understand. They talk about the difference between knowing land as an asset class versus knowing one specific market, and why local expertise, county calls, and basic research protect you from getting burned.They also get tactical on what actually wins deals and builds reputation. They break down how to earn access to better mentors by bringing real opportunities, why you should never pitch investors something outside their criteria, and how AI can help you ask smarter questions without pretending you know more than you do. The bigger point is simple, if you want to grow, you have to do the work, learn the rules of the market, and stop taking random actions that destroy trust.Then they shift into two levers that move the needle fast, counteroffers and terms. Mason shares how he counters almost every offer, not just on price but on the small contract details that most people miss, and why a clean, confident counter often gets accepted. Dan breaks down why selling on terms changes the math, boosts your sale price, builds a note portfolio, and can eventually fund your marketing and future acquisitions without relying on constant flips.Tune in to hear how they think about learning markets, protecting your name, countering like a pro, and using term sales to build a business that compounds.===Key Topics:-Learn the asset class and the market-Build mentors by bringing real deals-Protect your reputation with clear criteria-Counteroffers win more often than you think-Selling on terms compounds wealth===🚨 Ready to Learn How to Flip Land? 🚨Hey there! Dan and Mason have something exciting for you:🎉 Join our FREE Ground Up Land Community! 🎉Here’s what you’ll get:✅ Expert tips on flipping land✅ Connect with other land investors✅ Ask questions & get real feedback✅ Weekly calls with Dan & Mason – totally free!Don’t wait—take the first step toward land investing success.👉 Join for FREE at https://www.skool.com/grounduplandcommunity===Connect With Us:https://linktr.ee/thebigpictureblueprint
In this episode, we break down Mason’s 17 lot Colorado portfolio deal and why these “one seller, many properties” buys can be the best way to scale a land business without multiplying your headaches. We talk through what a real portfolio deal is, why sellers will discount when they can move everything at once, and how these deals let you save time, title costs, and seller management compared to chasing 17 separate purchases.We walk through how Mason actually found the deal, a simple filter for targeting owners with multiple lots, why LLC owners are often the best targets, and how speed of response can be the difference between winning and losing a portfolio. Mason shares the real numbers, how he framed a low offer without burning trust, and how the deal still made sense because the basis per lot was so low. We also get into the “good, bad, and ugly,” surprises like unknown mobile homes, lots coming back as not buildable, quiet title issues, and why buying cheap gives you flexibility when not everything is perfect.We also cover how the deal was funded with investors, how repayment terms were structured so nobody is losing sleep, and why these bigger, fewer transactions can beat the “onesie-twosie” model long term. The biggest lesson is clear, portfolio deals reward discipline, fast follow-up, and smart due diligence, especially on infill lots where one mistake can make land close to worthless.Tune in to hear the exact approach Mason used to find and win this deal, what he would do differently next time, and the practical questions you should be asking every seller so one deal can turn into many.===Key Topics:-What portfolio deals are and why they scale faster-How to find portfolio sellers using owner property count filters-Why LLC and investor owned land is a strong target-Making low offers and winning with speed and credibility-Due diligence risks and how low basis pricing hedges mistakes===🚨 Ready to Learn How to Flip Land? 🚨Hey there! Dan and Mason have something exciting for you:🎉 Join our FREE Ground Up Land Community! 🎉Here’s what you’ll get:✅ Expert tips on flipping land✅ Connect with other land investors✅ Ask questions & get real feedback✅ Weekly calls with Dan & Mason – totally free!Don’t wait—take the first step toward land investing success.👉 Join for FREE at https://www.skool.com/grounduplandcommunity===Connect With Us:https://linktr.ee/thebigpictureblueprint
In this episode, we look back at 2025 and break down the lessons that reshaped how we think about deals, teams, and growth going into 2026. We talk honestly about what worked, what didn’t, and why this past year forced a return to fundamentals. From recognizing real buying opportunities to adjusting expectations in a slower, more normal market, this conversation reflects the reality many operators faced.We dive into hard lessons around hiring and leadership, including knowing when something isn’t working and acting sooner. We discuss why sales and acquisitions require hands-on management, especially when markets cool, and why slim margin deals no longer make sense. There’s a clear shift toward fewer, bigger, higher-quality opportunities and a deeper focus on data, discipline, and long-term thinking.We also explore how demand hasn’t disappeared, it has simply changed. Certain types of land, locations, and buyers are still active, while others require patience and longer cash conversion cycles. This episode is about aligning strategy with reality, avoiding unnecessary stress, and entering 2026 focused only on what truly works.Tune in to hear how these lessons can help you avoid costly mistakes, make better decisions, and build a stronger, more intentional business moving forward.===Key Topics:-Turning targeted postcards into real inbound seller calls-Relentless follow up systems that convert missed calls into deals-Negotiating price changes without losing deal control-Due diligence for messy land deals with mobile homes and possible squatters-Neighbor outreach as the fastest, highest certainty exit strategy===🚨 Ready to Learn How to Flip Land? 🚨Hey there! Dan and Mason have something exciting for you:🎉 Join our FREE Ground Up Land Community! 🎉Here’s what you’ll get:✅ Expert tips on flipping land✅ Connect with other land investors✅ Ask questions & get real feedback✅ Weekly calls with Dan & Mason – totally free!Don’t wait—take the first step toward land investing success.👉 Join for FREE at https://www.skool.com/grounduplandcommunity===Connect With Us:https://linktr.ee/thebigpictureblueprint
In this episode, Mason and Dan unpack a real land deal deep dive that highlights what actually creates big profit in today’s market, targeted outreach, relentless follow up, and having more than one exit plan. Dan shares how a highly specific postcard campaign, built for a clear seller avatar, led to a missed call that could have been ignored, but instead turned into a six figure opportunity because the team called back, followed up, and stayed disciplined.They walk through the full timeline, from sourcing a 70ish acre timber and hunting style tract in the Southeast, to negotiating through a midstream price change, to structuring a 45 day due diligence window around messy unknowns like abandoned mobile homes, possible squatters, and hard to comp rural acreage. You’ll hear how they built confidence using multiple validation layers, realtor insight, a local expert who understood the county’s rules, buyer feedback, and real comps that supported the spread even with risk.The conversation also breaks down the operator mindset behind the win, always return calls, track leads inside a CRM, contact neighbors early, stay transparent with buyers, and avoid greed when you already have a strong deal in hand. Tune in to learn how to build repeatable deal flow, negotiate cleanly under pressure, and stay profitable by solving the problems other investors avoid.===Key Topics:-Turning targeted postcards into real inbound seller calls-Relentless follow up systems that convert missed calls into deals-Negotiating price changes without losing deal control-Due diligence for messy land deals with mobile homes and possible squatters-Neighbor outreach as the fastest, highest certainty exit strategy===🚨 Ready to Learn How to Flip Land? 🚨Hey there! Dan and Mason have something exciting for you:🎉 Join our FREE Ground Up Land Community! 🎉Here’s what you’ll get:✅ Expert tips on flipping land✅ Connect with other land investors✅ Ask questions & get real feedback✅ Weekly calls with Dan & Mason – totally free!Don’t wait—take the first step toward land investing success.👉 Join for FREE at https://www.skool.com/grounduplandcommunity===Connect With Us:https://linktr.ee/thebigpictureblueprint
In this episode, we bring Logan Fulmer back for his third round, and we go straight into what he does best, distressed property acquisition, without the hype. Logan breaks it down through three real stories, a five figure deal, a six figure deal, and a seven figure deal, and he starts with a reality check, price does not mean simple. Some “small” deals are a nightmare, and some big deals get solved fast once you know what you are looking at.You will hear how he actually finds opportunities, spotting price gaps, checking taxes, pulling deed records, and following the paper trail until the truth shows up. From a title mess tied to a marriage and an abandoned spouse, to an industrial tract with a $400,000 tax bill, to an estate deal that turned into hard litigation, Logan keeps coming back to one edge, a framework for solving problems. Ask why, keep digging, map the chain, read the documents, and do not panic when it looks ugly.If you want a smarter way to think about distressed deals, risk, and real operations, this conversation will help. It is a clear look at how deals move from lead to close, what skills matter most, and why the people who win are not the loudest, they are the ones who stay steady and finish the work.===Key Topics:-Distressed property acquisition frameworks-Five, six, and seven figure deal realities-Finding deals through public records and price gaps-Solving title, tax, and legal problems-Building calm decision making under pressure===Unlock the real estate secrets that can turn throwaway leads into $50K–$100K+ profits! Join the Distressed Property Acquisition Summit 2026 — a full-day, hands-on training with Logan Fullmer and expert investors. Get your ticket now!Click here: https://event.dpasummit.com/2026-322395?am_id=MM===🚨 Ready to Learn How to Flip Land? 🚨Hey there! Dan and Mason have something exciting for you:🎉 Join our FREE Ground Up Land Community! 🎉Here’s what you’ll get:✅ Expert tips on flipping land✅ Connect with other land investors✅ Ask questions & get real feedback✅ Weekly calls with Dan & Mason – totally free!Don’t wait—take the first step toward land investing success.👉 Join for FREE at https://www.skool.com/grounduplandcommunity===Connect With Us:https://linktr.ee/thebigpictureblueprintConnect With Logan Fullmer:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/logan-fullmer-5b663526bWebsite: https://www.loganfullmer.com/
In this episode, we sit down with a young land investor who built a real business long before most people even choose a career path. He started flipping land in 2019 from Ireland and has already moved over a hundred properties across the U.S. What began as curiosity from books and podcasts turned into a full-time operation using direct mail, subdivisions, outbound channels, and a level of persistence most people never develop. He shares the highs, the lows, and the reality of trying to grow a land business when the market keeps shifting under your feet.We dive into his earliest sparks of entrepreneurship. Importing phones as a teenager, trading Tesla stock, and studying the Irish financial crisis — all of which shaped how he thinks about risk and opportunity. He walks us through his first deals, including a landlocked $3,000 parcel that turned into a $12,000 win, and the title issues that nearly knocked him out before he understood what true due diligence looks like. From the early days to now, he makes one thing clear. This business rewards the people who learn fast, stay curious, and don’t quit the first time a neighbor threatens to block the road.If you care about building a land business that actually lasts — one that survives market swings, legal headaches, and the emotional rollercoaster of deal-by-deal income — this conversation will give you a grounded, smarter way to think about acquisitions, operations, and long-term wealth.===Key Topics:-How he flipped 100 land deals from Ireland-The $3k landlocked deal that changed everything-The market shift killing beginners right now-The overseas setup that made his business unstoppable-The team and strategy behind consistent $25k to $30k deals===🚨 Ready to Learn How to Flip Land? 🚨Hey there! Dan and Mason have something exciting for you:🎉 Join our FREE Ground Up Land Community! 🎉Here’s what you’ll get:✅ Expert tips on flipping land✅ Connect with other land investors✅ Ask questions & get real feedback✅ Weekly calls with Dan & Mason – totally free!Don’t wait—take the first step toward land investing success.👉 Join for FREE at https://www.skool.com/grounduplandcommunity===Connect With Us:https://linktr.ee/thebigpictureblueprintConnect With Ciaran Sheil:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ciaransheil
In this episode, we sit down with Brent Daniels to unpack what it really takes to stay in the wholesaling game when most people burn out or disappear. Brent shares how a single line on a settlement statement (“assignment fee”) changed his entire path, how he rebuilt after losing everything in 2008, and why he now keeps his model simple: fast assignments, strong systems, and no shiny-object chasing. We also dig into what happened to wholesaling after the boom — from text blasting getting shut down, to interest rates wiping out hobby investors, to new regulations forcing people to either get serious or get out. Brent explains why compliance and transparency are now an advantage, what his typical sellers really look like today, and the only three ways deals actually come in: paid marketing, outbound hustle, or referrals.To close, Brent zooms out and gets real about money and lifestyle. He talks about using 0% business credit for runway, keeping a few key properties free and clear, and putting most of his wealth into simple market vehicles instead of chasing “1,000 doors” for social media. His message is clear: invest in yourself, tell the truth even when people want a dream, and build a business that lets you sleep at night and be present with your family. If you care about staying in real estate for the long term — not just making a quick score — this conversation will give you a more grounded way to think about deals, marketing, and wealth.===Key Topics:• The one insight that flips your whole real estate strategy• Why 90,000 wholesalers vanished almost overnight• The inbound lead system top operators use to win every deal• The seller types quietly producing the most profitable opportunities• The wealth play smart investors trust over rentals and “1,000 doors”===🚨 Ready to Learn How to Flip Land? 🚨Hey there! Dan and Mason have something exciting for you:🎉 Join our FREE Ground Up Land Community! 🎉Here’s what you’ll get:✅ Expert tips on flipping land✅ Connect with other land investors✅ Ask questions & get real feedback✅ Weekly calls with Dan & Mason – totally free!Don’t wait—take the first step toward land investing success.👉 Join for FREE at https://www.skool.com/grounduplandcommunity===Connect With Us:https://linktr.ee/thebigpictureblueprint--Connect With Brent Daniels:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/brentmdanielsWebsite: talktopeople.com===Jumpstart your land business with Ground Up Partners! We understand the challenge of finding capital in the land business. That's why we're here to provide all the funds you need to close your deals. No more worrying about finances; just bring us your signed contract. Visit www.gupland.com now to submit your deal and take the first step towards success.Fuel Your Investments with Ground Up Partners!===Looking to diversify your portfolio with competitive returns?We're launching a fund for accredited investors to invest passively and enjoy competitive returns.Visit the link below to schedule a call with us today and take the
In this episode, we sit down with Texas land broker and investor-focused Realtor Jason Northcutt to hear how he went from mortgages and military service to building a land-first business. Jason tells the story of the random Facebook post he saw while grilling in his backyard that turned into 13 land subdivision listings overnight — and how that moment pushed him to niche down into farm, ranch, and development land across Texas. He walks us through what it really takes to serve land investors well, from finding the dirt and running due diligence to selling out the last lot.We talk about the hard lessons people learn when they jump from houses into land and assume “it’s just dirt, it must be easy.” Jason breaks down why that mindset is dangerous — from county rules on subdividing, to water and power issues, to defunct subdivisions that look cheap on paper but never move. He explains how serious land investors think in cycles, accept that some deals are 6–24 month plays, and choose markets based on distance to cities, carrying costs, and realistic timelines instead of hype.Jason also opens up about how he uses AI as a tool, not a replacement — helping him sift through county data, analyze comps, and even challenge appraisals faster while still keeping a human in the loop. We get into how he markets land beyond the MLS, what he looks for in the investors he works with, and why relationships and process matter more than quick wins.If you’re serious about buying, selling, or investing in land, this conversation will give you a clearer picture of what it really takes to play the long game.===Key Topics:• Journey into land and building a niche business• Common mistakes new land investors make• How market cycles shape land deals and timelines• Using AI as a tool for analysis and decision-making• What makes a strong broker–investor partnership===🚨 Ready to Learn How to Flip Land? 🚨Hey there! Dan and Mason have something exciting for you:🎉 Join our FREE Ground Up Land Community! 🎉Here’s what you’ll get:✅ Expert tips on flipping land✅ Connect with other land investors✅ Ask questions & get real feedback✅ Weekly calls with Dan & Mason – totally free!Don’t wait—take the first step toward land investing success.👉 Join for FREE at https://www.skool.com/grounduplandcommunity===Connect With Us:https://linktr.ee/thebigpictureblueprintConnect With Jason Northcutt:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/northregroupWebsite: https://www.facebook.com/jasonnorth40/===Jumpstart your land business with Ground Up Partners! We understand the challenge of finding capital in the land business. That's why we're here to provide all the funds you need to close your deals. No more worrying about finances; just bring us your signed contract. Visit www.gupland.com now to submit your deal and take the first step towards success.Fuel Your Investments with Ground Up Partners!===Looking to diversify your portfolio with competitive returns?We're launching a fund for accredited investors to invest passively and enjoy...
In this episode, Mason McDonald and Dan Haberkos get real about why land flippers fail — not because deals don’t exist, but because most don’t learn the work. They break down quiet titles, surveys, and easements in plain words, then show how mindset, systems, and consistent follow-up keep your pipeline alive when others stop.They share what actually moves the needle: treat it like a business, build admin first, market every week, and never skip the call-back. You’ll hear how drip campaigns revive “dead” leads, how to spot ghost expenses on your P&L, and when to pass on a deal even if it looks tempting on paper. Seasonality, cash buffers, conservative underwriting, and emotional control — it’s all here, with hard-won lessons from real deals.Tune in to learn how disciplined operators survive slowdowns, avoid bad buys, and build a land business that lasts.===Key Topics:-Surviving slow deal flow with smart pivots-Building relentless follow-up and drip systems that revive cold leads-Quiet title made simple to de-risk hairy properties-Killing ghost expenses before they bleed your margin-Passing on bad deals with conservative underwriting and cash buffers-Staying unemotional in negotiations to protect long-term wins===🚨 Ready to Learn How to Flip Land? 🚨Hey there! Dan and Mason have something exciting for you:🎉 Join our FREE Ground Up Land Community! 🎉Here’s what you’ll get:✅ Expert tips on flipping land✅ Connect with other land investors✅ Ask questions & get real feedback✅ Weekly calls with Dan & Mason – totally free!Don’t wait—take the first step toward land investing success.👉 Join for FREE at https://www.skool.com/grounduplandcommunity===Connect With Us:https://linktr.ee/thebigpictureblueprint===Jumpstart your land business with Ground Up Partners! We understand the challenge of finding capital in the land business. That's why we're here to provide all the funds you need to close your deals. No more worrying about finances; just bring us your signed contract. Visit www.gupland.com now to submit your deal and take the first step towards success.Fuel Your Investments with Ground Up Partners!===Looking to diversify your portfolio with competitive returns?We're launching a fund for accredited investors to invest passively and enjoy competitive returns.Visit the link below to schedule a call with us today and take the first step toward growing your investments.Dan Haberkost:  https://danhaberkost.com/looking-to-invest-passively/ Mason McDonald:  https://masonrmcdonald.com/ 
Listener Questions #3

Listener Questions #3

2025-11-1042:29

In this episode, Dan and Mason take a hard look at the realities of today’s land market — from slowing deal flow to shifting buyer psychology. As the year winds down, they unpack what “normalization” really means for investors and why it’s not necessarily bad news. The two explore how operators can stay profitable even as volume cools, highlighting the difference between reactive sellers and disciplined acquirers who keep pipelines alive when everyone else pulls back.They break down the anatomy of consistent deal flow, how to qualify leads, nurture them through smart drip campaigns, and build systems that make follow-up second nature. From the importance of returning every call to creating a framework that tracks every lead source, Dan and Mason show how small operational habits often separate six-figure flippers from those who burn out.The conversation then dives deep into the structure of seller financing — the legal protections, the red flags, and why due diligence matters more than ever when buyers bring low capital or spotty credit. You’ll hear hard-won lessons from real deals that went sideways and how to avoid them through strong notes, trust deeds, and meaningful down payments.Tune in to learn how top land investors adapt to shifting markets, structure smarter deals, and stay motivated long after the excitement fades.===Key Topics:-Adapting to changing market conditions and slower deal flow-Building consistent lead follow-up systems that capture missed opportunities-Structuring safe and profitable seller financing deals-Staying motivated through long timelines and delayed payoffs-Transitioning from small flips to larger, riskier opportunities-Accurate pricing in rural counties with few comparables===🚨 Ready to Learn How to Flip Land? 🚨Hey there! Dan and Mason have something exciting for you:🎉 Join our FREE Ground Up Land Community! 🎉Here’s what you’ll get:✅ Expert tips on flipping land✅ Connect with other land investors✅ Ask questions & get real feedback✅ Weekly calls with Dan & Mason – totally free!Don’t wait—take the first step toward land investing success.👉 Join for FREE at https://www.skool.com/grounduplandcommunity===Connect With Us:https://linktr.ee/thebigpictureblueprint===Jumpstart your land business with Ground Up Partners! We understand the challenge of finding capital in the land business. That's why we're here to provide all the funds you need to close your deals. No more worrying about finances; just bring us your signed contract. Visit www.gupland.com now to submit your deal and take the first step towards success.Fuel Your Investments with Ground Up Partners!===Looking to diversify your portfolio with competitive returns?We're launching a fund for accredited investors to invest passively and enjoy competitive returns.Visit the link below to schedule a call with us today and take the first step toward growing your investments.Dan Haberkost:  https://danhaberkost.com/looking-to-invest-passively/ Mason McDonald:  https://masonrmcdonald.com/ 
In this episode, Dan and Mason go beyond quick appraisals to unpack what really makes land desirable—and why so many investors get it wrong. They challenge the “desktop analysis” mindset and show why boots-on-the-ground insight, not spreadsheets, separates real operators from speculators. You’ll hear stories of overlooked parcels, misjudged terrain, and the lessons that only come from seeing land in person.They dive into how understanding the end user—whether it’s a developer, hunter, or recreational buyer—can change how you value a property. From location dynamics to family-held ranches, the conversation highlights how local market knowledge shapes everything from pricing to exit strategy. Dan and Mason also share how to interpret limited transaction data, spot under-the-radar demand, and read between the lines of what the market isn’t saying.The discussion moves into the physical and legal details that define true desirability—access, utilities, zoning, and regulatory nuances that can make or break a deal. They reveal why paved roads, water availability, and clear legal titles often matter more than any discount, and how top operators turn complex local codes into competitive advantages.Tune in to learn how to evaluate land beyond surface-level metrics, why understanding your buyer is half the battle, and how detailed groundwork can turn ordinary deals into exceptional long-term wins.===Key Topics:-Evaluating land desirability beyond desktop analysis-Understanding the end user and real market demand-Proximity to growth and interpreting limited transaction data-Physical features, access, and utility considerations-Navigating zoning laws and legal constraints-Matching price to buyer capabilities and mitigating neighborhood risks===🚨 Ready to Learn How to Flip Land? 🚨Hey there! Dan and Mason have something exciting for you:🎉 Join our FREE Ground Up Land Community! 🎉Here’s what you’ll get:✅ Expert tips on flipping land✅ Connect with other land investors✅ Ask questions & get real feedback✅ Weekly calls with Dan & Mason – totally free!Don’t wait—take the first step toward land investing success.👉 Join for FREE at https://www.skool.com/grounduplandcommunity===Connect With Us:https://linktr.ee/thebigpictureblueprint===Jumpstart your land business with Ground Up Partners! We understand the challenge of finding capital in the land business. That's why we're here to provide all the funds you need to close your deals. No more worrying about finances; just bring us your signed contract. Visit www.gupland.com now to submit your deal and take the first step towards success.Fuel Your Investments with Ground Up Partners!===Looking to diversify your portfolio with competitive returns?We're launching a fund for accredited investors to invest passively and enjoy competitive returns.Visit the link below to schedule a call with us today and take the first step toward growing your investments.Dan Haberkost:  https://danhaberkost.com/looking-to-invest-passively/ Mason McDonald: ...
In this episode, Dan and Mason paint a clear-eyed picture of today’s land market—where the frenzy has faded, and the fundamentals matter more than ever. They break down what it really means to operate in a “normal” environment again, where easy flips and 30-day cash cycles have given way to longer holds, smarter buys, and sharper execution.You’ll hear how the land boom from 2020 to 2023 rewired investor expectations—and why that era of “easy money” was the exception, not the rule. From bulk acquisitions to better debt structuring, they reveal how top operators are adapting to slower demand, leaner margins, and a market that now rewards skill over speed. The conversation dives into strategies for maintaining efficiency, setting realistic hold periods, and building consistency through notes, long-term portfolios, and value-add opportunities.They also unpack how the most resilient investors are creating advantages by mastering their product knowledge—understanding soils, zoning, utilities, and subdivision codes in granular detail—and by cultivating strategic partnerships that turn complexity into opportunity. Tune in to discover what it really takes to thrive as the market normalizes, why less competition means more opportunity, and how disciplined, data-driven investors are building durable wealth—one informed decision at a time.===Key Topics:-Market correction and reality check-Longer cash conversion cycles-Buying in bulk and structuring good debt-Mastering product knowledge and due diligence-Building sustainable land businesses through patience and skill===🚨 Ready to Learn How to Flip Land? 🚨Hey there! Dan and Mason have something exciting for you:🎉 Join our FREE Ground Up Land Community! 🎉Here’s what you’ll get:✅ Expert tips on flipping land✅ Connect with other land investors✅ Ask questions & get real feedback✅ Weekly calls with Dan & Mason – totally free!Don’t wait—take the first step toward land investing success.👉 Join for FREE at https://www.skool.com/grounduplandcommunity===Connect With Us:https://linktr.ee/thebigpictureblueprint===Jumpstart your land business with Ground Up Partners! We understand the challenge of finding capital in the land business. That's why we're here to provide all the funds you need to close your deals. No more worrying about finances; just bring us your signed contract. Visit www.gupland.com now to submit your deal and take the first step towards success.Fuel Your Investments with Ground Up Partners!===Looking to diversify your portfolio with competitive returns?We're launching a fund for accredited investors to invest passively and enjoy competitive returns.Visit the link below to schedule a call with us today and take the first step toward growing your investments.Dan Haberkost:  https://danhaberkost.com/looking-to-invest-passively/ Mason McDonald:  https://masonrmcdonald.com/ 
In this episode, Dan and Mason deliver a masterclass on dispo — the art and science of turning land inventory into cash flow. They unpack what today’s market really demands from operators: sharper analysis, strategic property selection, and a finely tuned disposition funnel that rivals acquisition in sophistication. No longer can investors rely on “hot markets” alone; success now depends on knowing where demand lives, how to reach it, and which properties truly move.You’ll hear how experienced land investors are thriving by aligning with market data, mastering sell-through rates, and reading long-term trends that separate short-term flippers from sustainable operators. From offering creative terms to leveraging Facebook Marketplace, they reveal how to multiply buyer visibility, drive competition, and generate faster closes — even in slower markets. The discussion dives deep into how platforms like MLS, Land.com, and social media amplify reach, and why building trust-driven buyer lists and referral networks creates consistent, compounding results.They also break down the nuances of working with agents who understand land, setting up effective owner-financing structures, and keeping notes liquid through sound terms that attract serious investors. Tune in to discover how elite land operators are engineering reliable exits, protecting liquidity, and compounding relationships — one buyer, one property, and one cycle at a time.===Key Topics:-Dispo funnel optimization and market adaptability-Effective property marketing through Facebook and MLS-Building buyer lists and referral-driven sales-Smart financing and note liquidity strategies-Brand visibility and long-term dispo consistency===🚨 Ready to Learn How to Flip Land? 🚨Hey there! Dan and Mason have something exciting for you:🎉 Join our FREE Ground Up Land Community! 🎉Here’s what you’ll get:✅ Expert tips on flipping land✅ Connect with other land investors✅ Ask questions & get real feedback✅ Weekly calls with Dan & Mason – totally free!Don’t wait—take the first step toward land investing success.👉 Join for FREE at https://www.skool.com/grounduplandcommunity===Connect With Us:https://linktr.ee/thebigpictureblueprint===Jumpstart your land business with Ground Up Partners! We understand the challenge of finding capital in the land business. That's why we're here to provide all the funds you need to close your deals. No more worrying about finances; just bring us your signed contract. Visit www.gupland.com now to submit your deal and take the first step towards success.Fuel Your Investments with Ground Up Partners!===Looking to diversify your portfolio with competitive returns?We're launching a fund for accredited investors to invest passively and enjoy competitive returns.Visit the link below to schedule a call with us today and take the first step toward growing your investments.Dan Haberkost:  https://danhaberkost.com/looking-to-invest-passively/ Mason McDonald:  https://masonrmcdonald.com/ 
In this episode, Dan and Mason break down what it really takes to thrive in today’s land market — one that rewards skill, patience, and systems more than ever before. Gone are the days when anyone could throw a mailer and make a deal. What’s left are the operators who understand how to outlast the market by mastering the fundamentals of direct-to-seller marketing, building credibility, and turning conversations into conversions.You’ll hear how the best in the business are refining every lever — from mailer copy to data, from sales scripts to online reputation — to create a repeatable pipeline that produces real, qualified sellers. Our guests reveal how handwritten mailers still outperform at scale, why persistence with the same prospects builds trust, and how pairing outbound tactics with a strong digital presence turns cold leads into inbound calls.They also share the psychology behind why experienced investors sell below market value, the compounding value of time in the market, and why the Pareto principle still defines who survives each market cycle. From bank relationships and credit strategies to managing seller expectations and reading local markets, this conversation pulls back the curtain on what the most consistent land operators are really doing differently.Tune in to learn how to build a resilient, reputation-driven land business that compounds over time — one deal, one seller, and one market at a time.===Key Topics:-Direct to seller marketing strategies-Building strong online presence-Effective handwritten mailer campaigns-Cold calling and lead follow-up systems-Long-term market selection and persistence===🚨 Ready to Learn How to Flip Land? 🚨Hey there! Dan and Mason have something exciting for you:🎉 Join our FREE Ground Up Land Community! 🎉Here’s what you’ll get:✅ Expert tips on flipping land✅ Connect with other land investors✅ Ask questions & get real feedback✅ Weekly calls with Dan & Mason – totally free!Don’t wait—take the first step toward land investing success.👉 Join for FREE at https://www.skool.com/grounduplandcommunity===Connect With Us:https://linktr.ee/thebigpictureblueprint===Jumpstart your land business with Ground Up Partners! We understand the challenge of finding capital in the land business. That's why we're here to provide all the funds you need to close your deals. No more worrying about finances; just bring us your signed contract. Visit www.gupland.com now to submit your deal and take the first step towards success.Fuel Your Investments with Ground Up Partners!===Looking to diversify your portfolio with competitive returns?We're launching a fund for accredited investors to invest passively and enjoy competitive returns.Visit the link below to schedule a call with us today and take the first step toward growing your investments.Dan Haberkost:  https://danhaberkost.com/looking-to-invest-passively/ Mason McDonald:  https://masonrmcdonald.com/ 
In this episode, we pull back the curtain on what it really takes to survive and scale in a market that’s no longer easy. The days of quick flips and pandemic profits are gone and what’s left are operators who either evolve or disappear. They talk candidly about the grind behind today’s land business: slower deals, tighter liquidity, and the mindset shift required to play the long game when everyone else is chasing short wins.You’ll hear raw stories from real transactions where patience, timing, and conviction made the difference between a solid deal and a painful loss. Dan and Mason share how they structure bank relationships, leverage credit, and think about lending as a way to outlast the market. They unpack why direct-to-seller marketing still works when done with skill, how to manage title and financing headaches, and why understanding the psychology of buyers often matters more than the property itself.But this episode goes beyond tactics. It’s about legacy—why the next phase of success isn’t about scaling faster, but smarter. Dan and Mason reveal how they’re building systems that can stand the test of time, balancing ambition with enjoyment, and learning to find fulfillment in the process, not just the profit.Tune in to discover how to think like a long-term builder in a short-term world and why the best deals, the best partners, and the best lessons often come when the market slows down.===Key Topics:-Market shifts and long-term survival-Real transaction lessons and deal discipline-Banking relationships and financing leverage-Direct-to-seller marketing and negotiation skills-Building legacy and finding fulfillment in business===🚨 Ready to Learn How to Flip Land? 🚨Hey there! Dan and Mason have something exciting for you:🎉 Join our FREE Ground Up Land Community! 🎉Here’s what you’ll get:✅ Expert tips on flipping land✅ Connect with other land investors✅ Ask questions & get real feedback✅ Weekly calls with Dan & Mason – totally free!Don’t wait—take the first step toward land investing success.👉 Join for FREE at https://www.skool.com/grounduplandcommunity===Connect With Us:https://linktr.ee/thebigpictureblueprint===Jumpstart your land business with Ground Up Partners! We understand the challenge of finding capital in the land business. That's why we're here to provide all the funds you need to close your deals. No more worrying about finances; just bring us your signed contract. Visit www.gupland.com now to submit your deal and take the first step towards success.Fuel Your Investments with Ground Up Partners!===Looking to diversify your portfolio with competitive returns?We're launching a fund for accredited investors to invest passively and enjoy competitive returns.Visit the link below to schedule a call with us today and take the first step toward growing your investments.Dan Haberkost:  https://danhaberkost.com/looking-to-invest-passively/ Mason McDonald:  https://masonrmcdonald.com/ 
In this episode, we sit down with Clay Hepler to uncover how personal setbacks, tough lessons, and a single land deal sparked the growth of a business that now stretches across multiple markets. Clay shares the early struggles of flipping rentals and self-storage in the Midwest, the financial hit from his wife’s job loss, and the leap into land investing that began with 15,000 mailers at the height of the pandemic.We explore what most investors miss: the hidden costs of old properties, the dangers of mispriced land, and why local intelligence often trumps national data. Clay breaks down the mistakes of his first campaigns—choosing the wrong counties, overlooking wetland regulations and explains how those missteps sharpened his instincts for pricing, targeting, and market selection.From there, Clay reveals how he scaled up: hiring his first lead manager, building acquisition and disposition teams, and layering on outbound marketing through cold calls and neutral offer letters. He shares the KPIs that drive accountability, the systems that keep his organization aligned, and how feedback loops create lasting institutional knowledge.Tune in to know what it takes to build a land business that lasts—embracing discomfort, leaning on data without losing local nuance, and creating a team culture that turns early risks into long-term momentum.===Key Topics:-Early struggles and pivot to land investing-Mistakes in first campaigns and lessons learned-Building and scaling a real estate team-Importance of local market intelligence-Systems KPIs and accountability for growth===🚨 Ready to Learn How to Flip Land? 🚨Hey there! Dan and Mason have something exciting for you:🎉 Join our FREE Ground Up Land Community! 🎉Here’s what you’ll get:✅ Expert tips on flipping land✅ Connect with other land investors✅ Ask questions & get real feedback✅ Weekly calls with Dan & Mason – totally free!Don’t wait—take the first step toward land investing success.👉 Join for FREE at https://www.skool.com/grounduplandcommunity===Connect With Us:https://linktr.ee/thebigpictureblueprintConnect With Clay Hepler:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/clayheplerlandmanWebsite: clayhepler.io/===Jumpstart your land business with Ground Up Partners! We understand the challenge of finding capital in the land business. That's why we're here to provide all the funds you need to close your deals. No more worrying about finances; just bring us your signed contract. Visit www.gupland.com now to submit your deal and take the first step towards success.Fuel Your Investments with Ground Up Partners!===Looking to diversify your portfolio with competitive returns?We're launching a fund for accredited investors to invest passively and enjoy competitive returns.Visit the link below to schedule a call with us today and take the first step toward growing your investments.Dan Haberkost:  https://danhaberkost.com/looking-to-invest-passively/ Mason McDonald: ...
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