The Paper Trail

Understanding Recent Changes in Credit Scores and Mortgage TermsIn this episode of the Paper Trail podcast, Chris discusses two significant topics affecting the note investing space: the potential for 50-year mortgages and changes in the Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac credit score requirements. The host explains how the removal of the 620 credit score floor could impact loan qualification and why the idea of 50-year mortgages may not gain widespread traction. Emphasizing the importance of understanding the 'rules of the game,' the host advises investors to stay focused on their business fundamentals and not get distracted by industry hype and external chatter.00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview01:01 Credit Score Changes and Their Impact03:18 The 50-Year Mortgage: Pros and Cons06:03 Focus: The Key to Successful Investing11:15 Understanding the Rules of the Game19:55 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Paper Trail Podcast, host Chris shares insightful stories from his years of experience in note investing. He reflects on his journey since rebranding from the Good Deeds Note Investing Podcast and delves into two detailed case studies involving complex loan situations. Chris discusses the importance of patience, direct involvement, and the value of understanding both consumer and investor laws. He also emphasizes the necessity of proactive management and communication with borrowers to protect investment interests. As always, listeners are encouraged to interact and learn more about investment opportunities with 7E Investments.00:00 Introduction and Podcast Rebranding00:29 Early Podcast Days and Lessons Learned01:51 The Slow Pace of Note Investing02:21 Case Study 1: Investor Loans and Extensions09:24 Case Study 2: Builder Loans and Foreclosure12:39 Dealing with Difficult Borrowers18:08 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of The Paper Trail Podcast, Chris shares what he calls the biggest mistake of his note investing career: buying a 0% interest loan. Despite acquiring it at a steep discount, the loan turned into a frustrating and time-consuming challenge. Chris breaks down what went wrong—from unpredictable borrower behavior and high servicing fees to the illusion of “cheap” deals that aren’t worth the effort.He explains how low monthly payments can erode returns, why understanding your servicing contract is critical, and how certain borrowers exploit the system. Through this candid story, Chris illustrates the hidden dangers of loans that seem too good to be true and why discipline, due diligence, and realistic pricing matter more than chasing a bargain.This episode is an unfiltered look at the mistakes, frustrations, and lessons that come with real-world note investing—offering valuable takeaways for anyone entering the business or managing a portfolio today.

In this episode of The Paper Trail Podcast, Chris breaks down one of the most overlooked mistakes in pricing non-performing loans—underestimating the risk of reinstatement on low-interest loans. He shares how even experienced investors can misprice assets by focusing too heavily on foreclosure-based models without considering what happens if a borrower resumes payments.Chris also offers a real-world update from 7e Investments’ record-breaking third quarter, previews upcoming educational seminars, and introduces 7e’s new private lending program offering DSCR and fix-and-flip loans. Whether you’re a seasoned note buyer or new to the space, this episode offers practical, experience-based lessons to refine how you analyze loan tapes and avoid common valuation errors.

In this episode, Chris breaks down one of the most misunderstood aspects of mortgage note investing—how to price non-performing loans correctly. Drawing from real case studies, he explains why assuming a fast foreclosure timeline can lead to major miscalculations, how borrower behavior (like filing for bankruptcy) impacts your timeline and return, and why the biggest risks often come from what you can’t predict.Chris also shares how 7e models downside risk using IRR and scenario planning, why adding just one month to your assumptions can save your entire deal, and what to do when legal errors, borrower beliefs, or delays threaten your outcome. This episode is a must-listen for investors who want to move beyond surface-level deal sourcing and understand what it really takes to manage notes profitably.This is part one of a multi-part series on loan pricing fundamentals.

In this episode of The Paper Trail Podcast, Chris recaps the recent Paper Trail Conference and the intentional decision to keep sessions unrecorded for candid discussions. He then dives into the latest foreclosure and REO data from ATTOM and USFN, comparing national trends with the 7e Investments portfolio. Foreclosure activity is climbing, REOs are surging, and certain markets like Florida, Nevada, and South Carolina are experiencing significant distress. Chris explains how these trends affect investors, why understanding local markets matters, and how note buyers should factor price declines and holding costs into bids. He also previews an upcoming 10-part series on bidding strategies for non-performing loans, highlighting the need to look beyond calculators and consider external factors. The episode closes with thoughts on rising non-performing loans in commercial and multifamily sectors and what these shifts mean for upcoming opportunities in distressed debt.

A casual chit-chat unfolds as George and Chris dive into the coffee-fueled world of commercial real estate. They kick things off with some light banter about their coffee preferences—George's straight black versus Chris's adventurous mushroom blend, a nod to the quirky side of their industry. From there, George shares his unexpected journey into the realm of real estate, which started as a part-time gig just after college and spiraled into a decades-long career. They explore the nuances of commercial brokerage, touching on everything from retail and office spaces to the importance of being adaptable in an ever-changing market. George emphasizes the need for real estate agents to stay educated and embrace new technologies—because in the wild world of commercial real estate, it's survival of the fittest, or in their case, the most adaptable! They tackle the question of what truly adds value to a property, with George sharing some killer insights on how strategic upgrades can lead to significant returns. A highlight of the convo is their take on the current market, aptly dubbed the 'fog of war,' reflecting the uncertainty and myriad influences affecting investors today. Chris and George offer a refreshing take on how to navigate the tricky waters of real estate, blending wisdom with a sprinkle of humor.

n this episode of the Paper Trail Podcast, we speak with Chalea Grant of Mountain West Ranches, a family-owned land investment and note company on the West Coast, and a sponsor of the Paper Trail Note Conference. Chalea shares how his family has been building trust with investors since 1990, using seller financing and a fully in-house process to ensure quality, transparency, and strong returns.From navigating investor concerns and scams to providing recourse guarantees on land notes, Chalea reveals what makes Mountain West Ranches a standout in the land investment space. Investors will learn why having everything in-house, maintaining detailed documentation, and prioritizing long-term relationships leads to a reliable, stress-free investment experience.Resources & Contact:Website: mwranches.com/land-noteEmail: chale@mwranches.comJoin Chalea and other industry leaders at the Paper Trail Note Conference, September 18–20, in Chandler, AZ. Register Here

Episode SummaryIn this episode of the Paper Trail Podcast, we sit down with Nicole Merriman, a top real estate agent with eXp Luxury in Las Vegas, to explore the critical role agents play in the note investing world. Nicole shares her journey from hospitality to real estate, how she navigated unique challenges during COVID, and why she’s committed to helping investors and homeowners achieve success with integrity and creativity.Through real-life stories, including complex foreclosure transactions and unconventional properties, Nicole reveals the importance of responsiveness, common sense, and compassion when managing high-stakes deals. Her hands-on approach, problem-solving skills, and dedication to going above and beyond make her a standout professional in the industry.Whether you’re an investor, lender, or real estate professional, this episode offers actionable insights into navigating tricky properties, working with buyers and sellers, and the value of having a reliable, knowledgeable agent on your team.Resources & Contact:Nicole Merriman – eXp Luxury: Call/Text: 734-512-9324 - Connect with Nicole for expert guidance on Las Vegas luxury and investment propertiesPaper Trail Conference: Join us September 18–20 in Chandler, AZ for more education, networking, and actionable strategies for note investors Register Here

This episode of the Paper Trail is a treasure trove for anyone looking to navigate the wild world of private lending and mortgage notes. He kicks things off with a bang, sharing his own journey as a CEO of a mortgage note fund, and trust me, it's packed with all the juicy details about what went right, what went sideways, and the lessons learned along the way. Chris dives into the nitty-gritty of the industry, from non-performing loans to seller financing, stressing the importance of having a solid exit strategy—because, let’s be real, nobody wants to be stuck in a deal that’s gone south! He also chats with David Cook from Contessa Capital, who brings his 30 years of experience to the table, sprinkling in some sage advice about being a savvy investor and the pitfalls to avoid. So, whether you're a newbie or a seasoned pro, this episode is brimming with insights and laughs that'll keep you entertained and informed.Join Chris and his buddy David as they dive deep into the wild world of mortgage notes, lending, and all things finance! Chris kicks things off with a friendly intro, setting the stage for some serious talk about the journey of a CEO running a mortgage note fund. David, who’s been in the game for over 30 years, spills the beans on how he got into investing and the rollercoaster ride that followed. From the challenges of navigating through market shifts to the ins and outs of private lending, they keep it real and relatable. David shares some juicy tales about what went right—and what went hilariously wrong—offering listeners a front-row seat to the drama and excitement of investing. Throughout their chat, they touch on the importance of having a solid exit strategy before diving into any deal. You know, like that one time David learned the hard way that having a plan is crucial—especially when things get bumpy. He stresses that anyone looking to invest needs to keep their eyes peeled for potential pitfalls and be ready to pivot when the market throws a curveball. Plus, they share advice on starting small, like a side hustle, before taking the plunge full-time. With a sprinkle of humor and a whole lot of wisdom, this episode is a treasure trove for aspiring investors. Chris and David drop knowledge bombs about the key principles of successful investing and how to be a good partner without being a pushover. They wrap up with a friendly nudge to follow the paper trail and trust the process—because in this game, patience is a virtue!Links referenced in this episode:papertrailconference.comCompanies mentioned in this episode: Contessa Capital

Today, he’s hanging out with the Strategy Ninjas, a crew on a mission to turn bold ideas into real-life action—like turning a light bulb moment into a full-blown disco party! They’re all about giving entrepreneurs the lowdown on how to kick-start their businesses using AI and automation, making it a game-changer in the real estate scene. The trio dives into their AI real estate accelerator course, sharing some of their top-secret frameworks that help folks level up their hustle. He’s super pumped to have them as sponsors for the upcoming Paper Trail Conference, where the fun and knowledge will be flowing like a river of good vibes. So, grab your favorite snack, kick back, and get ready to soak in some seriously cool insights about using tech to make business dreams come true!Companies mentioned in this episode: Strategy Ninjas Paper Trail ChatGPT Grok Claude Gemini Copilot Perplexity Links referenced in this episode:thestrategyninjas.comaccelerator.thestrategyninjas.com

In this episode of the Paper Trail Podcast, part of our Know Your Speaker Series leading up to the Paper Trail Note Conference (PTNC), Chris sits down with Kris Fleming — business strategist, financial expert, real estate investor, and founder of The Genius Network.Kris shares her incredible journey from growing up in poverty to becoming a successful entrepreneur, investor, and coach for women building scalable businesses. With deep experience in banking, commercial and private lending, and real estate, Kris brings a unique blend of empathy, strategy, and financial intelligence to every deal.They discuss creative financing, how to assess borrowers beyond the numbers, and why personal responsibility and kindness are core to her investing approach. Kris also offers a preview of her upcoming talk at The Paper Trail Note Conference, happening September 18–20 in Chandler, Arizona, an event focused on real-world expertise, actionable learning, and community connection.🎟️ Register for the Paper Trail Note Conference: https://papertrailconference.com/registration/

Sponsor Highlight + Know Your Speaker Series: Default Attorney GroupIn this episode, we sit down with Jane and Josh from the Default Attorney Group (DAG) — a coalition of seasoned creditor rights law firms spanning 20+ states — to unpack what really goes on behind the scenes of a foreclosure, bankruptcy, or title claim.Whether you’re a seasoned investor or new to distressed notes, this conversation offers a masterclass in legal landmines — and how to avoid them. Josh, who will also be speaking on-stage at The Paper Trail Note Conference, walks us through critical differences between judicial and non-judicial states, how title defects can sideline a deal for years, and why fast communication with your legal team can be your most valuable asset.Plus, you’ll learn how DAG can serve as your one-stop shop for legal help across the note lifecycle — and why we’re proud to have them as sponsors of the Paper Trail Note Conference.🎧 Tune in to hear:What makes a default attorney indispensableHow to avoid costly mistakes with HELOCs, affidavits, and foreclosure timelinesThe #1 mistake lenders make when trying to save money on legal📍Catch Josh and the DAG team live at Paper Trail, Sept 18–20 in Chandler, AZ.Register here: papertrailconference.com

In this episode, Chris sits down with long-time real estate investor and creative finance educator William Tingle. With 25+ years of experience in the trenches, William shares how he built a real estate portfolio using Subject-To and seller finance strategies, without money, formal education, or a silver spoon.Together, they cover:How William quit his job after buying 24 houses in 12 monthsWhy Subject, To investing isn’t about taking advantage—it’s about helping firstReal examples of win-win deals (including 30% equity on a house with no cash out of pocket)The biggest mistakes new investors make (and how to avoid them)Why counting doors doesn’t equal successWhat William will be bringing to the upcoming Paper Trail ConferenceWhether you're new to creative real estate or looking to scale with integrity, this episode delivers grounded advice and real-life lessons you won’t hear from the “guru crowd.

In this Know Your Speakers edition of the Paper Trail Podcast, Chris sits down with Matt Kelley, a certified foreclosure expert and long-time investor who’s underwritten tens of thousands of loans across California, Arizona, Nevada, and beyond. Known for his no-BS style, Matt shares insights from both sides of the note space—firsts, seconds, courthouse steps, and post-sale acquisitions.They cover:Why underwriting is the true money-maker in note investingRed flags vs. yellow flags (and why the latter are more dangerous)The importance of underwriting sellers, not just borrowersCommon mistakes new investors make—and how to avoid themWhat’s really happening in today’s note market (and why inventory isn’t your biggest problem)Matt is also a featured speaker at the upcoming Paper Trail Conference (Sept 18–20) in Chandler, AZ. Get a preview of what he’ll bring to the stage—and why his sessions are can’t-miss.🎟️ Register at papertrailconference.com

In this episode of our series called Know Your Speakers, Chris Seveney is joined by Kevin Kim, partner at Geraci LLP and one of the leading legal minds in the private lending industry. Kevin leads the firm's corporate and securities practice, helping lenders structure funds, stay compliant, and scale responsibly. With deep experience across Regulation D, Regulation A+, licensing, and M&A, Kevin’s firm has advised hundreds of funds from mom-and-pop startups to billion-dollar platforms.In this conversation, Kevin shares the most common mistakes new fund managers make, how to think like an institutional operator, and why raising capital is about more than just legal docs—it’s about trust, transparency, and preparation. He also gives a behind-the-scenes look at what to expect as a speaker at the 2025 Paper Trail Conference and the critical conversations happening around fund formation, compliance, and market dynamics.🎟 Join Kevin and other top speakers live in Chandler, AZ, September 18–20.Reserve your spot at papertrailconference.com

In this Know Your Speakers episode, Chris talks with Melissa Palmer—former federal agent turned due diligence expert and founder of Capital Verified. Melissa shares how a personal experience with investment fraud pushed her to create a service helping private lenders and note investors avoid the same fate.Melissa discusses how she repurposed her background in criminal investigations to vet borrowers and deals, what most people miss when reviewing investment documents, and why it’s not just about spotting red flags—but understanding the yellow ones too. She opens up about lessons learned from owning rentals, getting scammed, and building a business that helps protect other investors from similar pitfalls.Melissa will be taking the stage at the 2025 Paper Trail Note Conference to go deeper on risk, verification, and the overlooked areas of due diligence that matter most—especially as more investors shift into private lending.🎟️ Join us live in Chandler, AZ, September 18–20. Reserve your seat at papertrailconference.com

In this Know Your Speakers episode, Chris Seveney sits down with DJ Olojo—note investor, podcast host, and founder of the Foreclosure Fix. DJ shares how he went from buying rentals in Atlanta after the 2008 crash to building a scalable portfolio focused on second position mortgage notes. He opens up about why he targets a 20% return, how he invests alongside his wife despite having different risk tolerances, and what it really takes to move from education to action. DJ breaks down the mindset, relationships, and creative deal structures that have helped him grow his business—starting with notes as small as $1,000.DJ is one of the featured speakers at the 2025 Paper Trail Note Conference, where he’ll go even deeper on how to turn $100K into $1M with seconds—sharing real numbers, real deals, and lessons learned along the way.Join us live in Chandler, AZ, September 18–20. Register now at https://papertrailconference.com/registration/

In this episode, Chris sits down with Marco Bario — former film and TV executive turned seller finance expert and founder of Porch Swing Funding. Marco shares his journey from the chaos of Hollywood production sets to the structure and strategy of note investing. They discuss the importance of patience, transparency, and relationship-building in deal-making, as well as why staying in your lane can be the most powerful growth move.Marco also previews his upcoming session at the Paper Trail Conference, where he’ll walk through how to build trust with individual sellers and navigate one-on-one conversations — a crucial but often overlooked skill in this business.🎟 Ready to learn from voices like Marco's? Join us at Paper Trail, Sept 18–20 in Chandler, AZ: https://papertrailconference.com/registration/

In this episode of the Paper Trail Podcast, Chris Seveney sits down with Jay Redding, co-founder of Cassidy Investment Group and a seasoned real estate investor with over two decades of experience. Known for his collaborative investing approach with his son-in-law, Jay has focused heavily on seller-financed notes and brings a deep, practical perspective on building long-term wealth through relationships, due diligence, and conservative deal structuring.Chris and Jay dive into how their philosophies align around integrity, risk management, and adapting with market cycles. Jay also shares stories from his early investing days, how his farm upbringing shaped his mindset, and what he hopes attendees will take away from his session at the Paper Trail Conference.If you're curious about seller financing, real-world investing strategies, and how seasoned pros think about legacy and returns, this episode is a must-listen. Catch Jay live at the Paper Trail Conference, September 18–20 in Chandler, AZ.Register at papertrailconference.com to join us.