No Vacancy with Taylor Avakian

In this episode of the No Vacancy podcast, Taylor Avakian sits down with Jeff Gleiberman, President of MG Properties, to pull back the curtain on one of the most successful multifamily investment firms in the country. Managing over 33,000 units and transacting billions annually, Jeff shares the "secret sauce" behind their 30-year track record, including their hyper-disciplined approach to vertical integration and why they prioritize long-term fixed-rate financing.The conversation dives deep into the current state of real estate, comparing the regulatory challenges of the Los Angeles market with the booming opportunities in Dallas. Jeff explains the nuances of balancing private high-net-worth syndications with institutional JVs, the strategic shift toward "Heaven in '27," and the reality of navigating market cycles without losing investor capital.Whether you are an aspiring real estate professional or a seasoned institutional investor, this episode provides a masterclass in scale, reputation, and specialization.Video Chapters0:00 – The Golden Rule of Leverage & Market Risk1:50 – Introduction: Meet Jeff Gleiberman of MG Properties3:08 – The History of MG: From 4 Units to 33,0003:54 – The Power of Vertical Integration: Keeping it In-House5:19 – Capital Stacks: Private Syndication vs. Institutional JVs7:45 – The Hidden Drawbacks of Institutional Capital9:52 – Portfolio Performance: Fixed-Rate Debt & Avoiding Losses13:14 – The Future Vision for MG Properties14:35 – Market Deep Dive: Exiting Los Angeles for Dallas17:11 – Regulation & Sentiment: The Struggle with California Real Estate19:39 – New Market Strategy: Why MG is Moving into Texas & Boston22:01 – Competing with the "Big Boys": Reputation over Size24:29 – Maintaining a "Family Feel" in a 1,000-Employee Company25:26 – Leveraging Relationships with Freddie Mac & Fannie Mae26:58 – "Heaven in '27": When Will the Market Recover?28:12 – Underwriting Conservative Deals: Cap Rates & Rent Growth29:21 – Data & AI: How MG Stays Efficient in Property Management31:11 – Value-Add vs. Core Plus: The MG Renovation Playbook32:45 – Why MG Avoids Ground-Up Development34:15 – The Best Deals: Case Studies from San Diego & Reno37:00 – A Day in the Life: Fundraising & Company Strategy38:22 – Red Flags: What to Avoid During Property Inspections40:35 – Innovation in the Office: Remote vs. In-Person Management43:01 – Investment Targets: IRR, Equity Multiples, & Cash-on-Cash45:06 – Tax Efficiency: The 1031 Exchange Advantage46:44 – Hard Lessons Learned from the 2008 Recession49:16 – Exploring NOAH (Affordable Housing) & Tax Abatements52:18 – Control & Discipline: The Pillars of Investment Success55:24 – Why Keep Growing? The Multi-Generational Mission57:15 – Networking as a Barbell: Golf, Relationships, & Growth1:02:20 – Advice for the Next Generation of Real Estate Leaders1:05:25 – The MG Superpower: Ultra-Discipline & SpecializationSponsor — Citizens BankConnect with a banker athttps://www.citizensbank.com/novacancySponsor — Parkup.ioParking made simple withhttps://parkup.io/Sponsor - AI for CRE CollectiveAI for CRE Community: https://www.skool.com/ai-for-cre-collective/about?ref=3b3ff2c0ccce44ba8039fafd54bf291aSubscribe and Stay Ahead! Stay informed and empowered in the multifamily real estate market. Subscribe to the channel for exclusive insights, rental updates, and expert analyses on the Los Angeles market.

The U.S. faces a severe affordable housing shortage, with millions of renters paying more than 30% of income on rent. In this in-depth conversation, Jeffrey Jaeger, co-founder and principal of Standard Communities, shares his journey from brokerage and institutional real estate to building one of the nation's leading affordable housing platforms - managing over 30,000 units across 22+ states and targeting 50,000 by 2030.Jaeger breaks down the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program - how it leverages private capital through tax incentives to finance new construction, rehabilitation, and preservation of affordable rental housing. He explains the mechanics: developers qualify projects, investors receive dollar-for-dollar tax credits plus depreciation, and the model delivers low default rates due to strong demand, conservative underwriting, and built-in guarantees.The discussion covers:- Starting in multifamily brokerage and spotting asymmetric opportunities- Transitioning to principal investing during the 2008 crisis- Building Standard Communities through public-private partnerships- Navigating distress, tax credits, bonds, and essential housing- Scaling via new development, acquisition/rehab, and asset management- Using speed, knowledge of regulations, and talent to outpace competitors- Future focus on systems, processes, AI for document analysis/underwriting, and downside-protected growthA must-listen for real estate professionals, investors, policymakers, and anyone interested in how private capital addresses America's housing crisis.Chapters0:00 – Intro & Housing Crisis Stats (7.4M+ Unit Shortage)2:06 – Jeff's Background & Early Career in Brokerage3:52 – From Pension Fund Advisory to Principal Side8:17 – Spotting Brokerage Alpha & Early Lessons10:48 – Founding Jackson Square Properties (15,000 Units)13:40 – Launching Standard Communities in 200716:02 – Navigating 2008 Crisis & Shift to Affordable19:04 – Mission-Driven Model & Public-Private Partnerships21:46 – Explaining LIHTC & Affordable Housing Basics27:04 – How LIHTC Works: Tax Credits, Equity, & Low Defaults32:29 – Capital Stack & Developer Incentives37:32 – Standard's Three Business Lines (New Dev, ACT Rehab, Essential Housing)42:36 – Competitive Edge: Speed, Knowledge Asymmetry, Scale46:18 – Recent Fast Close Example (San Jose Workforce Conversion)50:01 – AI & Systems for Deal Research & Underwriting54:27 – Converting Market-Rate to Affordable: Process & Alpha58:33 – Becoming the "Homebuilder" of Affordable Housing1:03:03 – Advice for Young Professionals: Education, Mentorship, Revenue Streams1:09:51 – Generational Opportunities in "Non-Sexy" Businesses1:15:50 – Vision for Standard: #1 Developer, Top Talent, Advocacy1:18:56 – LA Housing Challenges & Policy Frustrations1:25:43 – Closing Thoughts & Call for ChangeSubscribe and Stay Ahead! Stay informed and empowered in the multifamily real estate market. Subscribe to the channel for exclusive insights, rental updates, and expert analyses on the Los Angeles market.

In this in-depth conversation, recently retired CBRE Executive Vice President Laurie Lustig-Bower shares decades of insights from one of the most successful multifamily brokerage careers in Los Angeles real estate.With over 36 years at CBRE (formerly Coldwell Banker Commercial), Laurie and her team handled more than $12 billion in multifamily transactions in the last decade alone. She built her business on the Westside of LA — specializing in apartment buildings, condo conversions, and development sites — consistently ranking as a top national producer in CBRE’s Private Capital Group.Key topics include:- How she chose multifamily and the Westside LA niche as her "blue ocean" path to expertise- Building a referral-based business without ever making cold calls- Networking strategies with residential brokers, appraisers, internal CBRE colleagues, estate attorneys, banks, and more- The power of internal referrals and paying generous referral fees early on- Daily habits, discipline, and idea generation that drove consistent deal flow- Preparing killer listing pitches: underwriting depth, rent comps, creative value-add strategies, rehearsals, psychology of the seller, and why most brokers skip rehearsal- What truly makes the ultimate broker: drive, persistence, emotional intelligence, creative problem-solving, and gut-level numbers mastery- Pricing psychology — why overpricing kills momentum, the dangers of long market time, and why multifamily buyers think differently than residential- Lessons from iconic deals and market cycles (without specifics)- Advice for new or growing brokers: pick a tight lane (product type + geography + price range), reverse-engineer your business plan, brand yourself clearly, become the go-to expert- Why specializing beats being a generalist in today’s information-rich marketWhether you're a multifamily broker, investor, or anyone in commercial real estate looking to level up prospecting, client relationships, preparation, and long-term business building, this episode is packed with timeless, battle-tested principles from one of LA’s most respected multifamily pros.Timeless wisdom from a true multifamily legend in Los Angeles commercial real estate.Subscribe and Stay Ahead! Stay informed and empowered in the multifamily real estate market. Subscribe to the channel for exclusive insights, rental updates, and expert analyses on the Los Angeles market.Sponsor — Citizens BankConnect with a banker athttps://www.citizensbank.com/novacancySponsor - AI for CRE CollectiveAI for CRE Community: https://www.skool.com/ai-for-cre-collective/about?ref=3b3ff2c0ccce44ba8039fafd54bf291aConnect with me:Website: https://www.thegroupcre.com/Email: taylor@thegroupcre.comX: https://x.com/TAYVAY_LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tayloravakian/#realestate #commercialrealestate #podcast

Father-son duo Shawn Evenhaim and Edan Evenhaim are reshaping the Los Angeles skyline through Balaciano Group and the iconic The Q brand. With nearly 3 billion in transactions and multiple Builder of the Year awards, they share how they build, brand, and manage modern multifamily properties in one of the most challenging real estate markets.In this in-depth conversation they cover:- Starting as an immigrant in construction and evolving into large-scale multifamily development- The power of true vertical integration: in-house entitlement, architecture, general contracting, and property management- Why controlling the entire process delivers better design, quality, and community outcomes- Building a premium residential brand inspired by Tesla and Louis Vuitton - cohesive identity, no concessions, standing behind the product- Creating genuinely smart apartments with integrated technology at scaleUsing detailed data tracking (amenity usage, fob scans, equipment analytics) to constantly improve buildings- The realities of developing in Los Angeles: regulations, Measure JJJ, ULA, rent control concerns, and their impact on housing supply- Family business dynamics - respect, generational differences, and wanting the next generation to surpass you- Calculated risk-taking, surviving major market cycles (including 2008), and knowing when to slow down- The critical role of relationships, political access, community involvement, and philanthropy in real estate success- Advice for younger developers: start slow, learn from others, avoid over-leveraging, question everythingWhether you're interested in multifamily development, branding in real estate, smart-home technology in apartments, vertical integration, Los Angeles real estate challenges, or family business succession, this discussion offers rare insight from operators actively building and managing thousands of units in a high-regulation environment.

He Went From Del Taco to a $1.5B Empire (Here's How) | Henry ManoucheriHenry Manoucheri, Chairman and CEO of Universe Holdings, sits down for an in-depth conversation on building one of the largest privately held multifamily portfolios in the U.S. From his arrival in America as a teenage immigrant fleeing the Iranian Revolution to scaling a national real estate operation, Henry breaks down the mindset, strategies, and relentless work ethic that fueled his 42-year career in commercial real estate.This episode covers the power of persistent cold calling, transitioning from brokerage to principal investing, deal evaluation in today’s multifamily market, Los Angeles real estate dynamics, and timeless lessons for investors and entrepreneurs. Whether you're into multifamily syndication, value-add strategies, sales mindset, or long-term wealth building, this is packed with practical insights from a true industry leader.Chapters:0:00 – Intro: The Vision Behind a $1.5B Multifamily Empire1:09 – Immigrant Roots: Iran to Orange County & First Job at Del Taco7:45 – Early Hustle: Retail Sales to Real Estate Brokerage14:20 – Joining Marcus & Millichap & Mastering Cold Calling21:30 – Why Persistence Wins: 100,000+ Calls and Overcoming Rejection29:10 – Becoming a Top Producer and Transitioning to Principal36:40 – Building Universe Holdings: Family Office Strategy & Scaling Deals44:15 – Current Market Outlook: Los Angeles, Rent Control, and Opportunity52:30 – Deal Criteria: The Right Story, Motivated Sellers, and Value-Add Plays1:00:00 – New Construction vs. Value-Add: Wealth Preservation Strategies1:07:20 – Biggest Mistakes Investors Make & Lessons from Past Cycles1:14:50 – Leverage, Interest Rates, and Why Fixed-Rate Debt Matters1:22:00 – The Bottom of the Market? Cap Rates, Volume, and Future Predictions1:30:00 – Faith, Family, Legacy, and Final ThoughtsPerfect for anyone interested in multifamily real estate investing, commercial real estate brokerage, sales techniques, cold calling strategies, Los Angeles multifamily market, or immigrant entrepreneur success stories.🔔 Subscribe for weekly interviews with top real estate investors and operators👍 Like if you're inspired by Henry's journey💬 Comment below: What's ONE sales or investing lesson you'll take from this episode?Follow Henry Manoucheri and Universe Holdings for more insights.#MultifamilyInvesting #RealEstateInvesting #CommercialRealEstate #Multifamily #ColdCalling #RealEstatePodcast #LosAngelesRealEstate #ValueAddInvesting #RealEstateEmpire #ImmigrantSuccess #UniverseHoldings #HenryManoucheri #RealEstateSyndication #ApartmentInvesting Subscribe and Stay Ahead! Stay informed and empowered in the multifamily real estate market. Subscribe to the channel for exclusive insights, rental updates, and expert analyses on the Los Angeles market.🔔 Don’t miss out on the latest trends and tips to maximize your property's potential: https://www.youtube.com/c/TaylorAvakian📈 Connect with me:Website: https://www.thegroupcre.com/Email: taylor@thegroupcre.comX: https://x.com/TAYVAY_LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tayloravakian/

What really separates strong real estate professionals from everyone else when markets tighten and capital gets complicated?In this episode of No Vacancy, Taylor Avakian sits down with Vicky Schiff for a wide-ranging conversation on work ethic, conviction, and how serious operators think about risk, relationships, and capital in today’s real estate market. Vicky shares how she built her career by being the person who actually executes, prepares, and shows up when it matters.They dive into what’s happening inside the debt markets, how lenders are structuring risk through pref equity, CLOs, and loan-on-loan strategies, and why understanding the incentives behind capital is just as important as understanding the deal itself. Vicky also explains how high-level decision-makers prepare for meetings, evaluate opportunities, and maintain confidence without ego.Beyond markets and structures, the episode explores discipline, curiosity, and human connection — and why relationships still drive outcomes even as the industry evolves.This is a practical conversation for anyone operating in commercial real estate who wants to think more clearly, move with conviction, and understand what’s really happening behind the capital stack.Sponsor — Loan TitanUpscale your experience withhttps://loantitan.com/Sponsor — AI for CRE CollectiveJoin 500+ CRE Professionals actually learning AIhttps://www.skool.com/ai-for-cre-collective/about?ref=3b3ff2c0ccce44ba8039fafd54bf291aConnect with Taylor AvakianNewsletter: https://www.thegroupcre.com/newsletter-signupInstagram: https://instagram.com/tayloravakianTwitter: https://twitter.com/tayloravakianLinkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/tayloravakian/

Uncovering the Hidden Power Structures in Commercial Real Estate with Hiten Samtani (Founder of Ten31 Media)Deep-dive conversation with Hiten Samtani, former Editorial Director at The Real Deal and founder of Ten31 Media, on the unseen forces driving commercial real estate in America's biggest markets.From long-term family dynasties and low-basis empires to cultural niches quietly controlling billions in Los Angeles and New York, political leverage in mega-projects, the surge of private credit and insurance capital, and the evolving role of insider-focused media in an opaque industry.Essential for commercial real estate investors, brokers, developers, lenders, operators, and professionals looking for unfiltered perspective on market movers, capital flows, and power dynamics.Sponsor — Loan TitanUpscale your experience withhttps://loantitan.com/Connect with Taylor AvakianNewsletter: https://www.thegroupcre.com/newsletter-signupInstagram: https://instagram.com/tayloravakianTwitter: https://twitter.com/tayloravakianLinkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/tayloravakian/Connect with Hiten Samtanihttps://www.thepromote.com/https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-promote-podcast/id1801355295https://youtube.com/@ten31tv?si=Ke5cIHVQCNAnXptYChapters:0:00 - Intro & Real Estate as Nexus of Power, Money, and Politics1:29 - Guest Intro and Background in CRE Media2:14 - Who Really Shapes Cities: Long-Term Owners vs Transient Capital3:48 - Family Dynasties, Nepo Babies, and Low-Basis Advantages5:30 - Information Arbitrage, Broker Relationships, and Deal Flow7:27 - Political Juice in Mega Projects (Beverly Hills, Hudson Yards)9:04 - Negotiating Tactics vs Outright Corruption10:59 - Appraisals, Incentives, and Gray Areas12:09 - LA vs New York Kingpins: Quiet Wealth and Cultural Niches16:51 - Private Credit Evolution with Insurance Capital19:08 - Sub-Institutional Trends and Fraud Scrutiny19:33 - Market Sentiment: LA vs New York Asset Classes22:50 - Political Risks and Narrative Shifts25:53 - Starting Ten31 Media: Bridging the Industry-Media Gap28:39 - Building a Niche Media Business for Specialists31:07 - Paywalls, Premium Content, and Audience Monetization32:04 - AI's Impact on Media and Quality vs Slop34:39 - Institutional Players Courting Retail Capital via Social Media39:49 - Future of CRE Media: Counterpoint and Swagger42:01 - Building Clout with Exclusion and Quality44:01 - Expanding Platforms While Keeping the DNA45:52 - Podcast Growth and Chemistry49:19 - Writing Craft, Inspiration, and Editing52:44 - Balancing Business, Content, and Life55:06 - Favorite Stories and Idea Generation58:49 - Media Impact on Markets and Industry Opacity1:02:05 - Maintaining Integrity at Scale1:05:50 - Interviewing Techniques and Co-Hosting Dynamics1:08:31 - How to Ask Great Questions1:10:23 - Preparation vs Natural Flow in Interviews1:12:37 - Building Relationships Through Conversations1:13:30 - Closing Thoughts and Future of Ten31#CommercialRealEstate #CRE #RealEstateInvesting #PrivateCredit #RealEstateMedia #Ten31Media

Join Taylor Avakian on the No Vacancy Podcast as he sits down with Jan Brzeski, a co-founder of Arixa Capital and a leading expert in private credit and real estate lending in California. In this in-depth episode, Jan shares his journey building a massive commercial real estate debt fund, revealing the inner workings of private credit syndication and how lenders navigate today's shifting interest rate environment.Discover key insights into commercial real estate opportunities in California, including the impact of rising rates on property values, the role of private credit in bridging financing gaps, and strategies for underwriting strong loans in multifamily and construction projects. Jan breaks down fund economics, borrower selection, and why real estate private lending remains a resilient niche amid market adjustments.Whether you're an investor exploring commercial real estate in California, interested in private credit funds, or following trends from experts like Taylor Avakian and Jan Brzeski on the No Vacancy Podcast, this conversation offers valuable perspectives on building wealth through disciplined lending in today's dynamic market.Sponsor — Loan TitanUpscale your experience with: https://loantitan.com/Jan's Company:Sage Credit Investment Partners: https://scipfinance.com/My Newsletter: https://www.thegroupcre.com/newslette...📈 Connect with me:Website: https://www.thegroupcre.com/Email: taylor@thegroupcre.comX: https://x.com/TAYVAY_LinkedIn:   / tayloravakian 

What happens when a developer goes head-to-head with California’s most powerful cities, unions, and politicians?In this episode of The Group CRE, Taylor Avakian sits down with Leo Pustilnikov — one of the most controversial and influential developers in California’s housing landscape. Leo has become a central figure in the statewide housing reform battle, pushing projects forward using tools like the Builder’s Remedy, SB 9, SB 35, Density Bonus Law, and other pro-housing policies that force cities to comply with state law.Leo breaks down the political fights behind the scenes, how cities illegally block projects, what developers must understand about CEQA and entitlement strategy, and why California’s housing shortage is by design. This episode dives deep into corruption, NIMBY power, union pressure, lawsuits, and the future of LA housing — straight from someone who has been in the center of it.You’ll learn:- Why California cities block housing and how state law overrides them- How the Builder’s Remedy actually works (and why it’s so powerful)- The truth behind local corruption, CEQA abuse, and political retaliation- Why small and mid-sized developers abandon California- How Leo navigates union pressure, lawsuits, and city pushback- What it will take for California to ever meet housing demand- How to survive entitlement warfare and regulatory resistanceSponsor — Loan TitanUpscale your experience withhttps://loantitan.com/Connect with TaylorNewsletter: https://www.thegroupcre.com/newsletter-signupInstagram: https://instagram.com/tayloravakianTwitter: https://twitter.com/tayloravakianLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tayloravakian/Connect with Leo PustilnikovSubscribe and Stay Ahead! Stay informed and empowered in the multifamily real estate market. Subscribe to the channel for exclusive insights, rental updates, and expert analyses on the Los Angeles market.🔔 Don’t miss out on the latest trends and tips to maximize your property's potential: https://www.youtube.com/c/TaylorAvakian#TheGroupCRE #LeoPustilnikov #CaliforniaHousingCrisis #BuildersRemedy #CEQA #RealEstateDevelopment #NIMBY #HousingReform #CommercialRealEstate #TaylorAvakian #MultifamilyDevelopment #PolicyReform

In this episode of The Group CRE, Taylor Avakian sits down with Luke Morris — Co-Founder of CREXi and Founder of Capitalize.io — to break down how AI is transforming commercial real estate from the inside out. Luke shares the early days of CREXi, how he helped reshape CRE workflow at scale, and why he’s now focused on the next evolution of AI-powered tools for brokers, operators, and investors.From automating research to accelerating deal flow, Luke explains the problems he saw firsthand while building CREXi — and the AI solutions modern CRE professionals will rely on in the next decade.If you want to understand the future of real estate tech, the next wave of automation, and the mindset of a founder who helped build one of the most impactful CRE platforms ever created, this episode is a must-watch.You’ll learn:- How Luke co-founded CREXi and changed CRE deal flow forever- The biggest inefficiencies he discovered while building a marketplace- Where AI is already outperforming traditional CRE workflows- How automation supports brokers, researchers, and analysts- Why PropTech adoption is accelerating faster than ever- What the next generation of CRE software will look like- How founders think about scaling tools for a legacy industry---🔗 LinksSponsor — Loan TitanUpscale your experience withhttps://loantitan.com/Connect with TaylorNewsletter: https://www.thegroupcre.com/newsletter-signupInstagram: https://instagram.com/tayloravakianTwitter: https://twitter.com/tayloravakianLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tayloravakian/Connect with Luke MorrisSubscribe and Stay Ahead! Stay informed and empowered in the multifamily real estate market. Subscribe to the channel for exclusive insights, rental updates, and expert analyses on the Los Angeles market.🔔 Don’t miss out on the latest trends and tips to maximize your property's potential: https://www.youtube.com/c/TaylorAvakian#LukeMorris #CREXi #TheGroupCRE #PropTech #LoanTitan #CommercialRealEstate #RealEstateTech #CREBrokerage #AutomationTools #AIInBusiness #CREMarketplace #TaylorAvakian

In this episode, we sit down with Daniel Nagel — CIO & CFO of Decron Properties — to unpack how a multigenerational real estate family built a 10,000-unit empire over 70+ years and why they’re now pivoting billions OUT of California into growth markets like Phoenix & Austin.Daniel shares his grandfather’s Holocaust-to-developer story, the philosophy behind surviving every market cycle since 1956, what institutional investors really look for, and how to build an investment platform that lasts generations.If you're serious about multifamily investing, family offices, long-term real estate strategy, and institutional-grade deal thinking — this episode is a masterclass.🎯 Key Takeaways- Immigrant perseverance → building a $B real estate legacy- Why Decron shifted from homebuilding to multifamily- Surviving recessions & maintaining lender relationships- California exit strategy: regulation, taxes, and rent control impact- Why core & core-plus outperform value-add in today’s market- The pivot to institutional capital & what IRR really means- How to scale across markets without losing your edge- Tech, AI, and modern CRE skill-sets for the next 10 years🔗 LinksSponsor: AI for CRE Collective – transforming real-estate workflows with AIhttps://www.aiforcrecollective.comConnect With Daniel:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nageldaniel/ (Decron Properties)Connect With Taylor📩 Newsletter: https://www.thegroupcre.com📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tayloravakian🐦 Twitter: https://twitter.com/tayloravakianSubscribe and Stay Ahead! Stay informed and empowered in the multifamily real estate market. Subscribe to the channel for exclusive insights, rental updates, and expert analyses on the Los Angeles market.🔔 Don’t miss out on the latest trends and tips to maximize your property's potential: https://www.youtube.com/c/TaylorAvakian#RealEstateInvesting #MultifamilyInvesting #InstitutionalRealEstate #FamilyOffice #CaliforniaRealEstate #SunbeltInvesting #CommercialRealEstate #RealEstateStrategy #HousingMarket #Development #WealthBuilding #AIinRealEstate

From small beginnings to billion-dollar portfolios — Paul Julian has seen it all.In this episode of The Group CRE, Taylor Avakian sits down with Paul Julian, a multifamily investor and operator who built success through persistence, partnership, and purpose. Paul shares how he scaled from early real estate deals to managing large multifamily assets, breaking down the strategies, risks, and mindset behind long-term success in a volatile market.You’ll learn:- How Paul got started in real estate and built early traction- The secrets behind scaling a multifamily portfolio sustainably- How partnerships and investor trust drive long-term growth- Lessons from navigating interest rates, market cycles, and risk- The mindset and systems that separate top operators from the rest- Why consistency, humility, and patience are the keys to real wealth---🔗 Connect & Resources🎙️ Hosted by: Taylor Avakian — The Group CRE🌐 Website: https://www.thegroupcre.com💼 Connect with Paul Julian (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/in/tayloravakian/📧 Business Inquiries: info@thegroupcre.com🎧 Listen on Spotify / Apple Podcasts / YouTube---Subscribe and Stay Ahead! Stay informed and empowered in the multifamily real estate market. Subscribe to the channel for exclusive insights, rental updates, and expert analyses on the Los Angeles market.🔔 Don’t miss out on the latest trends and tips to maximize your property's potential: https://www.youtube.com/c/TaylorAvakian#TheGroupCRE #PaulJulian #MultifamilyRealEstate #RealEstatePodcast #TaylorAvakian #WealthBuilding #PropertyManagement #CRE #RealEstateInvesting #InvestmentStrategy #Entrepreneurship #FinancialFreedom

Brandon Hance did 180+ real estate deals in Los Angeles in just 7 years. Sounds incredible, right?But here's the truth: he wishes he'd done fewer deals and made MORE money.In this episode, Brandon opens up about his journey from tech startup founder to one of LA's most prolific developers - and why the "hustle harder" mentality almost destroyed him. He shares the brutal lessons he learned scaling too fast, the health crisis that nearly killed him, and how he's completely rebuilt his approach with his new company, Angelino Development.If you're thinking about scaling your real estate business, this conversation will change how you think about growth.You’ll learn:✅ Why doing MORE deals often means LESS profit✅ The hidden costs of high-volume development in LA✅ How to systemize your development business for scale✅ Navigating LA's complex zoning and permitting process✅ The importance of quality of life in building wealth✅ When to say no to deals (even good ones)Whether you’re chasing big goals or recovering from setbacks, this conversation is a raw, honest look at what success really costs — and what matters most after it’s gone.CONNECT WITH ME:EMAIL: taylor@thegroupcre.comWEBSITE: www.thegroupcre.comThis episode is sponsored by AI for CRE Collective - an exclusive community built for real estate professionals using AI to close more deals, manage properties smarter, and scale faster.Whether you’re a broker, investor, or property manager, join over 400 members already transforming their business with AI tools and strategies.🔗 Learn more at [www.aiforcrecollective.com](https://www.aiforcrecollective.com/)📈 Connect with me:Website: https://www.thegroupcre.com/Email: taylor@thegroupcre.comX: https://x.com/TAYVAY_LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tayloravakian/#TheGroupCRE #BrandonHance #Entrepreneurship #TaylorAvakian #FaithAndBusiness #WealthBuilding #Resilience #Leadership #StartupJourney #BusinessMindset

How do you build affordable housing in a city known for red tape, high costs, and endless delays?In this episode of The Group CRE, Taylor Avakian sits down with Mott Smith, co-founder of Amped Kitchens and the Los Angeles Small Developer Collective, to discuss how smart policy, modular design, and process innovation can transform housing development in California.You’ll learn:- Why LA’s housing and permit systems are fundamentally broken- How Mott Smith helps small developers build smarter and faster- The impact of modular kitchens, ADUs, and adaptive reuse projects- What cities can learn from entrepreneurs and private sector innovation- How policy reform could unlock LA’s next housing boomWhether you’re a developer, policymaker, or housing advocate, this episode unpacks the complex relationship between regulation, creativity, and real-world solutions.Sponsor: https://aiforcrecollective.com/Subscribe and Stay Ahead! Stay informed and empowered in the multifamily real estate market. Subscribe to the channel for exclusive insights, rental updates, and expert analyses on the Los Angeles market.🔔 Don’t miss out on the latest trends and tips to maximize your property's potential: https://www.youtube.com/c/TaylorAvakian📈 Connect with me:Website: https://www.thegroupcre.com/Email: taylor@thegroupcre.comX: https://x.com/TAYVAY_LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tayloravakian/#TheGroupCRE #MottSmith #HousingCrisis #UrbanDevelopment #RealEstatePodcast #TaylorAvakian #AffordableHousing #PolicyReform #UrbanPlanning #CRE

How does someone go from fixing copy machines to owning and operating over 6,000 multifamily units?In this episode of The Group CRE, Taylor Avakian sits down with Steve Ludwig, a multifamily investor who turned humble beginnings into a billion-dollar portfolio. Steve shares his path from blue-collar work into real estate, breaking down the strategies, discipline, and mindset that helped him scale in one of the toughest industries.Sponsor: www.aiforcrecollective.comYou’ll learn:- How Steve transitioned from fixing copiers into real estate- The mindset shifts that fueled his long-term growth- Lessons from managing and scaling 6,000 multifamily units- How to balance risk, debt, and investor relationships- Why patience and discipline matter more than timingWhether you’re starting small or aiming to scale big, Steve’s story is a masterclass in persistence, resilience, and wealth building.Subscribe and Stay Ahead! Stay informed and empowered in the multifamily real estate market. Subscribe to the channel for exclusive insights, rental updates, and expert analyses on the Los Angeles market.🔔 Don’t miss out on the latest trends and tips to maximize your property's potential: https://www.youtube.com/c/TaylorAvakian📈 Connect with me:Website: https://www.thegroupcre.com/Email: taylor@thegroupcre.comX: https://x.com/TAYVAY_LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tayloravakian/#TheGroupCRE #SteveLudwig #MultifamilyInvesting #RealEstatePodcast #TaylorAvakian #ApartmentInvesting #WealthBuilding #PropertyManagement #CRE #RealEstateInvesting

In this episode of The Group CRE, Taylor Avakian sits down with Chris Gray, President of Moss & Company, which manages over 15,000 multifamily units and 3 million sq. ft. of commercial space. Chris shares how Moss scaled its operations, built a strong company culture, and leveraged technology to tackle today’s toughest challenges — from fraud prevention to AI-driven leasing.You’ll learn:- How Moss and Company scaled from 4,000 to 15,000 units- The leadership changes that transformed company culture- Why most owners struggle with property management- How AI and machine learning are reshaping leasing and fraud prevention- The biggest threats — and opportunities — facing LA’s rental marketWhether you’re an owner, investor, or operator, this episode offers powerful insights on growth, resilience, and the future of property management.CONNECT WITH ME: EMAIL: taylor@thegroupcre.comWEBSITE: www.thegroupcre.comSubscribe and Stay Ahead! Stay informed and empowered in the multifamily real estate market. Subscribe to the channel for exclusive insights, rental updates, and expert analyses on the Los Angeles market.🔔 Don’t miss out on the latest trends and tips to maximize your property's potential: https://www.youtube.com/c/TaylorAvakian#RealEstatePodcast #PropertyManagement #MultifamilyInvesting #LosAngelesRealEstate #RealEstateInvesting #CRE #ApartmentInvesting #AIinRealEstate #MarsAndCompany #TheGroupCRE

How does a professional skateboarder transition into building a $400M real estate portfolio?In this episode of No Vacancy, Taylor Avakian sits down with Mikey Taylor — former pro skater turned entrepreneur, investor, and city councilman. Mikey shares his unique path from skating the streets to leading one of the most successful real estate ventures in Southern California.You’ll learn:- How Mikey reinvented himself after a pro skating career- The mindset shift from athlete to entrepreneur and investor- Lessons from building community-driven real estate projects- Why discipline and creativity go hand-in-hand in business- Mikey’s advice for athletes, creators, and anyone facing reinventionWhether you’re in sports, business, or real estate, Mikey’s story offers a powerful blueprint for resilience, creativity, and long-term success.CONNECT WITH ME: EMAIL: taylor@thegroupcre.comWEBSITE: www.thegroupcre.comSubscribe and Stay Ahead! Stay informed and empowered in the multifamily real estate market. Subscribe to the channel for exclusive insights, rental updates, and expert analyses on the Los Angeles market.🔔 Don’t miss out on the latest trends and tips to maximize your property's potential: https://www.youtube.com/c/TaylorAvakian#NoVacancyPodcast #MikeyTaylor #RealEstateInvesting #Entrepreneurship #TaylorAvakian #AthleteToEntrepreneur #Skateboarding #PropertyInvestment #BusinessMindset #CRE

How do you evolve from small-scale real estate deals to building large, transformative projects?In this episode of No Vacancy, Taylor Avakian sits down with Marco Vartanian, a seasoned investor, broker, and developer, who shares his journey of scaling in real estate through timing, persistence, and smart strategy. From his early days flipping single-family homes to his current role in large developments, Marco reveals the mindset and decision-making that helped him navigate multiple market cycles.You’ll learn:- How Marco transitioned from brokerage into full-time investing and development- The role of timing and market discipline in long-term success- Strategies for sourcing and underwriting profitable deals- Lessons from market downturns and how to stay resilient- Why adaptability and relationships matter in scaling real estateWhether you’re an investor starting small or aiming to grow into large-scale projects, Marco’s story offers actionable lessons for every stage.CONNECT WITH ME: EMAIL: taylor@thegroupcre.comWEBSITE: www.thegroupcre.comSubscribe and Stay Ahead! Stay informed and empowered in the multifamily real estate market. Subscribe to the channel for exclusive insights, rental updates, and expert analyses on the Los Angeles market.🔔 Don’t miss out on the latest trends and tips to maximize your property's potential: https://www.youtube.com/c/TaylorAvakian📈 Connect with me:Website: https://www.thegroupcre.com/Email: taylor@thegroupcre.comX: https://x.com/TAYVAY_LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tayloravakian/#NoVacancyPodcast #MarcoVartanian #RealEstateInvesting #RealEstateDevelopment #TaylorAvakian #PropertyInvestment #MultifamilyRealEstate #MarketCycles #RealEstatePodcast #CRE

What does it take to grow from flipping cars in college to owning over 5,000 apartments and 2 million square feet of retail?In this episode of No Vacancy, Taylor Avakian interviews Fred Leeds, a legendary real estate investor and operator. Fred shares his one-of-a-kind journey — from his first duplex purchase to cold-calling strategies, creative financing, and transformative inner-city projects. Along the way, he reveals the mindset and work ethic that turned opportunities into generational wealth.You’ll learn:- How Fred leveraged cold-calling to find and close deals- Why inner-city Los Angeles became a cornerstone of his portfolio- Stories of creative negotiations and community partnerships- Lessons on resilience, risk-taking, and thinking outside the box- The mindset shifts that turn hard work into long-term successWhether you’re an investor, operator, or someone chasing their first deal, Fred’s story delivers timeless strategies and inspiration.CONNECT WITH ME: EMAIL: taylor@thegroupcre.comWEBSITE: www.thegroupcre.comSubscribe and Stay Ahead! Stay informed and empowered in the multifamily real estate market. Subscribe to the channel for exclusive insights, rental updates, and expert analyses on the Los Angeles market.🔔 Don’t miss out on the latest trends and tips to maximize your property's potential: https://www.youtube.com/c/TaylorAvakian📈 Connect with me:Website: https://www.thegroupcre.com/Email: taylor@thegroupcre.comX: https://x.com/TAYVAY_LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tayloravakian/#NoVacancyPodcast #FredLeeds #RealEstateInvesting #ColdCalling #PropertyManagement #RetailRealEstate #TaylorAvakian #ApartmentInvestor #CRE #RealEstatePodcast

How do you continue to find winning multifamily deals in one of the toughest markets in recent years?In this episode of No Vacancy, Taylor Avakian interviews Mark Bolour, a multifamily investor and operator who’s made his mark with smart acquisitions and disciplined asset management. Mark shares how he identifies value-add opportunities, navigates challenging debt environments, and structures deals to deliver long-term stability.You’ll learn:- How to find and evaluate true value-add deals in competitive markets- Strategies for securing financing in high-interest rate environments- The importance of tenant relationships and operational efficiency- Balancing short-term pressures with long-term investment goals- Navigating today’s market cycle with a disciplined approachWhether you’re an operator, investor, or just curious about multifamily real estate, this episode delivers actionable insights from the trenches.Subscribe and Stay Ahead! Stay informed and empowered in the multifamily real estate market. Subscribe to the channel for exclusive insights, rental updates, and expert analyses on the Los Angeles market.🔔 Don’t miss out on the latest trends and tips to maximize your property's potential: https://www.youtube.com/c/TaylorAvakian📈 Connect with me:Website: https://www.thegroupcre.com/Email: taylor@thegroupcre.comX: https://x.com/TAYVAY_LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tayloravakian/#NoVacancyPodcast #MarkBolour #MultifamilyRealEstate #ValueAddInvesting #RealEstatePodcast #TaylorAvakian #ApartmentInvestor #RealEstateInvesting #OperationalExcellence #PropertyManagement