Built to SKALE

Here's how to build a real estate team that runs without you. We're breaking down the PROVEN hiring path for real estate teams.In this episode of Built to SKALE, Andy Fenstermaker and Pres McKissack break down the smartest way to structure your real estate team—without adding hours to your schedule. From hiring the right first partner (hint: it’s not an assistant) to building an admin hub that powers production, this conversation is packed with practical strategies for growing a lean, leveraged team. You’ll learn how to buy back your time, delegate strategically, and use inside sales to unlock more business. Plus, we unpack what it takes to shift from operator to true leader—so your business can grow even when you're not in the weeds. Whether you're hiring your first team member or scaling a 7-figure operation, this episode gives you the blueprint. Built to SKALE is hosted by Preston McKissack, who's family built a solid team they sold for seven figures, and Andy Fenstermaker who (along with Pres) runs SKALE for Teams, a platform that helps team leaders and owners grow their businesses effectively while saving time.Get the Real Estate Teams Blueprint and Learn More Here: https://skaleteams.com/levelsFollow SKALE:YouTube: https://youtube.com/@skaleteams?sub_confirmation=1Facebook: https://facebook.com/skaleteamsInstagram: https://instagram.com/skaleteams

The next person you hire can make or break your team’s momentum. In this episode of Built to SKALE, Andy Fenstermaker and Pres McKissack unpack the real cost of bad hires—and how to avoid them. They explore why rushing to fill roles often leads to regret, how to bring clarity to every position before you post the job, and how a smart, systematized onboarding process saves you time and sets your people up for success. If you're a team leader looking to scale without adding chaos to your day, this episode will give you the strategic lens you need to grow intentionally—and profitably.👉 Get our MVVVP Workbook: https://skaleteams.com/workbook   Built to SKALE is hosted by Preston McKissack, who's family built a solid team they sold for seven figures, and Andy Fenstermaker who (along with Pres) runs SKALE for Teams, a platform that helps team leaders and owners grow their businesses effectively while saving time.Get the Real Estate Teams Blueprint and Learn More Here: https://skaleteams.com/levelsFollow SKALE:YouTube: https://youtube.com/@skaleteams?sub_confirmation=1Facebook: https://facebook.com/skaleteamsInstagram: https://instagram.com/skaleteams

In this episode of Built to SKALE, hosts Andy Fenstermaker and Pres McKissack unpack the hidden trap that keeps many real estate teams spinning their wheels: “glob mode.” It’s that chaotic, reactive state where systems are loose, accountability is missing, and leaders are too busy to build real momentum. Andy and Pres reveal the high cost of staying stuck—lost deals, team burnout, and stalled growth—and share actionable strategies to get out of the grind and into intentional, scalable leadership. Whether you're leading a team of two or twenty, you'll walk away with practical insights on shifting from survival to strategy without adding more to your plate. This conversation is a must-listen for team owners ready to stop operating as overworked agents and start building teams that run like businesses. 👉 Get our MVVVP Workbook: https://skaleteams.com/workbook   Built to SKALE is hosted by Preston McKissack, who's family built a solid team they sold for seven figures, and Andy Fenstermaker who (along with Pres) runs SKALE for Teams, a platform that helps team leaders and owners grow their businesses effectively while saving time.Get the Real Estate Teams Blueprint and Learn More Here: https://skaleteams.com/levelsFollow SKALE:YouTube: https://youtube.com/@skaleteams?sub_confirmation=1Facebook: https://facebook.com/skaleteamsInstagram: https://instagram.com/skaleteams

Hosts Pres and Andy discuss the three levels of real estate teams: the Glob, the Group, and the Team. We explore the characteristics, challenges, and growth opportunities at each level, emphasizing the importance of systems, value propositions, and personal growth in building successful teams. The discussion highlights the need for leaders to continuously expand their vision and adapt to the evolving challenges of team dynamics.At the foundation of a strong team is a leader, one who can duplicate their success for team members. Personal growth is essential for business growth. We share how expanding your vision is crucial for retaining talent, something we'll explore deeper in a future episode. Finally, we touch on how handling challenges better is key to scaling a business. Built to SKALE is hosted by Preston McKissack, who's family built a solid team they sold for seven figures, and Andy Fenstermaker who (along with Pres) runs SKALE for Teams, a platform that helps team leaders and owners grow their businesses effectively while saving time.Get the Real Estate Teams Blueprint and Learn More Here: https://skaleteams.com/levelsFollow SKALE:YouTube: https://youtube.com/@skaleteams?sub_confirmation=1Facebook: https://facebook.com/skaleteamsInstagram: https://instagram.com/skaleteams

What if we told you that most real estate teams aren’t actually profitable — even when their sales numbers look strong? Pres and Andy unpack the brutal truth behind why teams lose money, the four profit killers to watch out for, and what you can do about it. This conversation exposes the challenges faced by real estate teams, particularly the paradox of appearing successful while actually losing money. We identify key pain points such as spending habits, profit splits, staffing issues, and unproductive salespeople. We cannot emphasize enough the importance of effective leadership, accountability, and the need to build a solid business foundation before expanding a team.Follow along each week as we tackle some of the top issues faced by real estate teams.  Built to SKALE is hosted by Preston McKissack, who's family built a solid team they sold for seven figures, and Andy Fenstermaker who (along with Pres) runs SKALE for Teams, a platform that helps team leaders and owners grow their businesses effectively while saving time.Get the Real Estate Teams Blueprint and Learn More Here: https://skaleteams.com/levelsFollow SKALE:YouTube: https://youtube.com/@skaleteams?sub_confirmation=1Facebook: https://facebook.com/skaleteamsInstagram: https://instagram.com/skaleteams

This is what real estate teams get wrong as they start to scale. We call it the Growth Trap, and it's why so many teams fail before they ever get off the ground. In this episode of Built to SKALE, Pres and Andy break down the top traps real estate teams fall into, and what to look for if your team is stalling out rather than growing smoothly. Built to SKALE is hosted by Preston McKissack, who's family built a solid team they sold for seven figures, and Andy Fenstermaker who (along with Pres) runs SKALE for Teams, a platform that helps team leaders and owners grow their businesses effectively while saving time.Get the Real Estate Teams Blueprint and Learn More Here: https://skaleteams.com/levelsFollow SKALE:YouTube: https://youtube.com/@skaleteams?sub_confirmation=1Facebook: https://facebook.com/skaleteamsInstagram: https://instagram.com/skaleteams

In this episode of "Everything Life and Financial Freedom," hosts Linda and Jim McKissack discuss the pros and cons of being your own property manager. They share personal anecdotes, practical tips, and valuable insights to help you weigh the pros and cons effectively. From the potential time savings and stress reduction to the financial implications and the importance of finding the right property manager, Linda and Jim provide a comprehensive guide.Tune in as Linda and Jim unravel the complexities of hiring a property manager, empowering you to make informed decisions on your path to financial freedom through real estate.Resources: Freedom Number Worksheet: https://everythinglifeandfinancialfreedom.com/worksheet/ Built to SKALE is hosted by Preston McKissack, who's family built a solid team they sold for seven figures, and Andy Fenstermaker who (along with Pres) runs SKALE for Teams, a platform that helps team leaders and owners grow their businesses effectively while saving time.Get the Real Estate Teams Blueprint and Learn More Here: https://skaleteams.com/levelsFollow SKALE:YouTube: https://youtube.com/@skaleteams?sub_confirmation=1Facebook: https://facebook.com/skaleteamsInstagram: https://instagram.com/skaleteams

In this episode of Everything Life and Financial Freedom, hosts Linda and Jim McKissack delve into the secrets of achieving five-star reviews for vacation rentals. They are joined by property manager Michelle Torres who has played a pivotal role in transforming the McKissacks' cabins into highly-rated retreats. Michelle shares valuable insights on the importance of communication, maintaining property standards, and addressing guest concerns promptly. The hosts explore the impact of reviews on potential bookings and discuss the strategies Michelle employs to turn negative experiences into positive outcomes.Discover the art of getting rave reviews for your vacation rentals as Michelle talks about communication tactics, property maintenance, and handling challenging situations with finesse. Tune in for tips that can elevate your property's reputation and attract enthusiastic guests eager to leave stellar reviews.Resources: Freedom Number Worksheet: https://everythinglifeandfinancialfreedom.com/worksheet/The McKissacks' cabins at Branson Vacation Retreats: http://www.BransonVacationRetreats.com  Built to SKALE is hosted by Preston McKissack, who's family built a solid team they sold for seven figures, and Andy Fenstermaker who (along with Pres) runs SKALE for Teams, a platform that helps team leaders and owners grow their businesses effectively while saving time.Get the Real Estate Teams Blueprint and Learn More Here: https://skaleteams.com/levelsFollow SKALE:YouTube: https://youtube.com/@skaleteams?sub_confirmation=1Facebook: https://facebook.com/skaleteamsInstagram: https://instagram.com/skaleteams

In this episode, hosts Jim and Linda McKissack interview real estate developer Zach Williams. Zach shares his story of growing up in Kentucky and getting into real estate investing at a young age through flipping houses. He discusses some mistakes he made early on and how he rebuilt. Zach now focuses on developing self-storage facilities. He explained his process of finding land, doing due diligence, raising funds from investors, developing the property, and eventually selling once stabilized. Jim and Linda ask questions to get more details about Zach's deals, returns, and how he works with lenders. Zach also discusses the self-storage market trends and how he finds mentors to help guide his business. Check out this episode to see how Zach shares his journey of creating an extraordinary life in real estate development.Resources: The Freedom Number Worksheet: http://everythinglifeandfinancialfreedom.com/worksheet/HOLD: http://amzn.to/3TqhnfIThe Millionaire Real Estate Agent: https://amzn.to/3GH55rN Built to SKALE is hosted by Preston McKissack, who's family built a solid team they sold for seven figures, and Andy Fenstermaker who (along with Pres) runs SKALE for Teams, a platform that helps team leaders and owners grow their businesses effectively while saving time.Get the Real Estate Teams Blueprint and Learn More Here: https://skaleteams.com/levelsFollow SKALE:YouTube: https://youtube.com/@skaleteams?sub_confirmation=1Facebook: https://facebook.com/skaleteamsInstagram: https://instagram.com/skaleteams

In this episode, hosts Linda and Jim McKissack share their insights on teaching kids about money and investing. Drawing from their own experiences, they highlight the importance of open conversations about family finances and stress the need to instill financial literacy early on. The couple discusses practical methods, such as playing financial games and even involving kids in real estate ventures. Tune in for a wealth of wisdom and discover how these principles can pave the way for a future of financial independence and generational wealth.ResourcesThe Freedom Number Worksheet: https://everythinglifeandfinancialfreedom.com/worksheet/Cashflow Quadrant Game: https://amzn.to/47FktkjBook Rich Dad Poor Dad: https://amzn.to/3QTdLzSWin the Day by Mark Batterson: https://amzn.to/3N7sBlgDave Ramey’s Total Money Makeover: https://amzn.to/3uAnWSKThe Wealthy Barber: https://amzn.to/3RjCLluDream Giver: https://amzn.to/3sVnAFAChristmas Jars: https://amzn.to/4a1HGyW Built to SKALE is hosted by Preston McKissack, who's family built a solid team they sold for seven figures, and Andy Fenstermaker who (along with Pres) runs SKALE for Teams, a platform that helps team leaders and owners grow their businesses effectively while saving time.Get the Real Estate Teams Blueprint and Learn More Here: https://skaleteams.com/levelsFollow SKALE:YouTube: https://youtube.com/@skaleteams?sub_confirmation=1Facebook: https://facebook.com/skaleteamsInstagram: https://instagram.com/skaleteams

In this episode of the Everything Life and Financial Freedom podcast, host Linda McKissack interviews Frank Klesitz, CEO of Vyral Marketing. Frank shares his various income and wealth strategies that led to financial independence. Listeners will learn how Frank realized at a young age that "the money is in selling the service, not providing it." Focusing on this principle and lowering his housing costs set him up for success.Listen to find out the key lessons Frank learned around having options, passive income, and knowing when it's time to simplify for peace of mind. You'll walk away motivated to reevaluate your own expenses and systems for growing income using strategic income and wealth strategies discussed in this episode.Resources:Freedom Number Worksheet: http://everythinglifeandfinancialfreedom.com/worksheet/How to Master the Art of Selling: http://amzn.to/3Mxq6s7Rich Dad Poor Dad: http://amzn.to/3MBqu93Cashflow Quadrant: http://amzn.to/3skSs2e  Built to SKALE is hosted by Preston McKissack, who's family built a solid team they sold for seven figures, and Andy Fenstermaker who (along with Pres) runs SKALE for Teams, a platform that helps team leaders and owners grow their businesses effectively while saving time.Get the Real Estate Teams Blueprint and Learn More Here: https://skaleteams.com/levelsFollow SKALE:YouTube: https://youtube.com/@skaleteams?sub_confirmation=1Facebook: https://facebook.com/skaleteamsInstagram: https://instagram.com/skaleteams

Jim highlights the benefits of registering as a professional at Home Depot and Lowe's, such as discounts on gas mileage, bid discounts on bulk purchases, and exclusive in-house deals for Pro Rewards customers. The conversation delves into specific strategies, like negotiating prices based on the duration of products on the floor, and the importance of building relationships with store employees. They also touch on the significance of having a business entity for these accounts and the perks of credit card limits and employee cards. The McKissacks provide valuable insights for investors looking to maximize their savings and create successful real estate ventures.  🎧 Episode Page: https://everythinglifeandfinancialfreedom.com/home-depot-tips-and-tricks-for-the-real-estate-investor/ 📕 Freedom Number Worksheet: http://everythinglifeandfinancialfreedom.com/worksheet/ Built to SKALE is hosted by Preston McKissack, who's family built a solid team they sold for seven figures, and Andy Fenstermaker who (along with Pres) runs SKALE for Teams, a platform that helps team leaders and owners grow their businesses effectively while saving time.Get the Real Estate Teams Blueprint and Learn More Here: https://skaleteams.com/levelsFollow SKALE:YouTube: https://youtube.com/@skaleteams?sub_confirmation=1Facebook: https://facebook.com/skaleteamsInstagram: https://instagram.com/skaleteams

Jim and Linda have been investing in real estate for over three decades. They give advice for those wanting to start investing in real estate, including answering the common question, “How much money do I need to get started?” The McKissacks share how they got started when they didn’t have much money. Jim and Linda explain why it’s important for investors to determine their Freedom Numbers. And they share why a real estate investor needs to be obsessed with investing, and not just interested in it. They talk about the two types of motivation, why it’s crucial that an investor’s significant other gets on board with investing, and why it’s important that everyone has a form of passive income. Get the Freedom Number Worksheet here: https://everythinglifeandfinancialfreedom.com/worksheet/  Built to SKALE is hosted by Preston McKissack, who's family built a solid team they sold for seven figures, and Andy Fenstermaker who (along with Pres) runs SKALE for Teams, a platform that helps team leaders and owners grow their businesses effectively while saving time.Get the Real Estate Teams Blueprint and Learn More Here: https://skaleteams.com/levelsFollow SKALE:YouTube: https://youtube.com/@skaleteams?sub_confirmation=1Facebook: https://facebook.com/skaleteamsInstagram: https://instagram.com/skaleteams

In this episode of Everything Life and Financial Freedom, hosts Jim and Linda McKissack discuss the current VRBO market. They talk about their journey and how they got started with VRBOs. They share why the VRBO market is currently down and why they believe this market will come back. Jim and Linda also explain why this is a good time to learn about VRBOs, and they give advice on where to find properties for those wanting to get into the VRBO business.Freedom Number Worksheet Built to SKALE is hosted by Preston McKissack, who's family built a solid team they sold for seven figures, and Andy Fenstermaker who (along with Pres) runs SKALE for Teams, a platform that helps team leaders and owners grow their businesses effectively while saving time.Get the Real Estate Teams Blueprint and Learn More Here: https://skaleteams.com/levelsFollow SKALE:YouTube: https://youtube.com/@skaleteams?sub_confirmation=1Facebook: https://facebook.com/skaleteamsInstagram: https://instagram.com/skaleteams

Jim talks about the systemic real estate issue going on in the country right now. He shares how, unlike in the 90s when real estate prices dropped 30-40%, current real estate prices are staying pretty tight. And while most people aren’t moving unless they have to, Linda reminds us that there will always be the Ds: death, divorce, drugs, etc., which cause people to move.Jim shares a real estate trick to determine what base price you should stay below when investing. And, Linda builds a case for why it’s never a bad time to invest in real estate. As Linda says, “You’ve just got to think outside of the box.”  Built to SKALE is hosted by Preston McKissack, who's family built a solid team they sold for seven figures, and Andy Fenstermaker who (along with Pres) runs SKALE for Teams, a platform that helps team leaders and owners grow their businesses effectively while saving time.Get the Real Estate Teams Blueprint and Learn More Here: https://skaleteams.com/levelsFollow SKALE:YouTube: https://youtube.com/@skaleteams?sub_confirmation=1Facebook: https://facebook.com/skaleteamsInstagram: https://instagram.com/skaleteams

Pres McKissack (Jim and Linda’s son) and Nick met in Montessori school when they were three and have been friends ever since. Nick talks about the influence that both Jim and Linda have had on shaping his real estate investing career. Nick, a young investor, purchased his first investment property when he was 25 or 26 years old. He currently has five rental properties and has made over $150,000 in Keller Williams’ profit share program.Jim shares the one common denominator that all investors need to use wisely. And he also talks about what makes Nick’s story unique. Nick shares some of his lessons learned and great ways to get started in real estate investing. He gives advice on overcoming investing obstacles and where to find the best real estate deals. Jim shares why he thinks we are entering a great market for the investor.Episode Resources:Freedom Number Worksheet: http://everythinglifeandfinancialfreedom.com/worksheet/Rich Dad, Poor Dad: http://amzn.to/45LGzQTThe Millionaire Next Door: http://amzn.to/3L11QxS Built to SKALE is hosted by Preston McKissack, who's family built a solid team they sold for seven figures, and Andy Fenstermaker who (along with Pres) runs SKALE for Teams, a platform that helps team leaders and owners grow their businesses effectively while saving time.Get the Real Estate Teams Blueprint and Learn More Here: https://skaleteams.com/levelsFollow SKALE:YouTube: https://youtube.com/@skaleteams?sub_confirmation=1Facebook: https://facebook.com/skaleteamsInstagram: https://instagram.com/skaleteams

In this episode of Everything Life and Financial Freedom, Jim and Linda McKissack speak with one of their dearest friends, real estate investor Tony DiCello. Throughout the episode, Tony shares a great deal of knowledge about real estate investing with partnerships and the importance of trust. He even says, “When you're looking for a partner, don't think about the real estate, think about the relationship and the trust in the relationship before you go looking for real estate together.” Tony also shares the two things to look for when buying real estate out of state. He explains the best way to get into the real estate investing business. And he talks about his mindset on investing today at his age compared to his investment strategy when he was younger. And in this conversation, Tony details an investment strategy that leaves Linda and Jim saying, “That’s a great idea. That’s one we haven’t heard of yet!” Built to SKALE is hosted by Preston McKissack, who's family built a solid team they sold for seven figures, and Andy Fenstermaker who (along with Pres) runs SKALE for Teams, a platform that helps team leaders and owners grow their businesses effectively while saving time.Get the Real Estate Teams Blueprint and Learn More Here: https://skaleteams.com/levelsFollow SKALE:YouTube: https://youtube.com/@skaleteams?sub_confirmation=1Facebook: https://facebook.com/skaleteamsInstagram: https://instagram.com/skaleteams

Jim and Linda McKissack welcome long-time friend and banker Tony Clark to Everything Life and Financial Freedom. In this episode, Tony talks about what banks look for in real estate investing. He shares what new investors need to know and be prepared for before they walk into a bank. Jim, Linda, and Tony discuss why community banks are the backbone of our economy and what that means for real estate investing. And Tony gives advice to those wanting to build wealth and have financial freedom.Tony brings decades of banking knowledge to this in-depth episode. Be sure to check it out!Resources:Freedom Number WorksheetHOLD: How to Find, Buy, and Rent Houses for Wealth  Built to SKALE is hosted by Preston McKissack, who's family built a solid team they sold for seven figures, and Andy Fenstermaker who (along with Pres) runs SKALE for Teams, a platform that helps team leaders and owners grow their businesses effectively while saving time.Get the Real Estate Teams Blueprint and Learn More Here: https://skaleteams.com/levelsFollow SKALE:YouTube: https://youtube.com/@skaleteams?sub_confirmation=1Facebook: https://facebook.com/skaleteamsInstagram: https://instagram.com/skaleteams

On this episode of Everything Life and Financial Freedom, podcast hosts Jim and Linda McKissack get to speak with Mary Boccardo. Mary discusses her career as a dietician in short-term care and long-term rehab and the lessons she learned there as well as her journey investing in real estate and now owning a microgreens business.After listening to Mary's story, you'll see why Linda says, "That proves a point that there's always an opportunity out there." And why Jim says, "That's what great investors do. They see the opportunity and then are willing to pull the plug and make it happen."Be sure to listen to this inspiring episode on recognizing opportunity!Episode Resources:Freedom Number WorksheetHOLD: How to Find, Buy, and Rent Houses for Wealth Built to SKALE is hosted by Preston McKissack, who's family built a solid team they sold for seven figures, and Andy Fenstermaker who (along with Pres) runs SKALE for Teams, a platform that helps team leaders and owners grow their businesses effectively while saving time.Get the Real Estate Teams Blueprint and Learn More Here: https://skaleteams.com/levelsFollow SKALE:YouTube: https://youtube.com/@skaleteams?sub_confirmation=1Facebook: https://facebook.com/skaleteamsInstagram: https://instagram.com/skaleteams

Klarissa talks about her experience with apartment syndication investing. She also goes into depth about investing in debt validation. Klarissa gives many great tips on how we can get started with these types of investments.Linda says that back when she and Jim were trying to get out of $600,000 in debt, one of the things she kept hearing from people was to "Be the bank." And in this conversation, Klarissa explains how she is her own bank. You'll also hear why Klarissa chose to buy out of state, as well as her advice for new investors.After listening to this episode, you'll see why Linda says she was "Awed" by Klarissa Skinner.Resources:Freedom Number WorksheetThe Psychology of Money: Timeless lessons on wealth, greed, and happinessThe Lifestyle Investor: The 10 Commandments of Cash Flow Investing for Passive Income and Financial Freedom‎Think Like A CEO with Gary Keller & Jay Papasan on Apple Podcasts Built to SKALE is hosted by Preston McKissack, who's family built a solid team they sold for seven figures, and Andy Fenstermaker who (along with Pres) runs SKALE for Teams, a platform that helps team leaders and owners grow their businesses effectively while saving time.Get the Real Estate Teams Blueprint and Learn More Here: https://skaleteams.com/levelsFollow SKALE:YouTube: https://youtube.com/@skaleteams?sub_confirmation=1Facebook: https://facebook.com/skaleteamsInstagram: https://instagram.com/skaleteams