Claim OwnershipSmall Axe Podcast: Multifamily Real Estate | Buy Buildings, Build Empires
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The Small Axe Podcast is your go-to show for mastering multifamily real estate investing. Hosted by Nico Salgado, this podcast breaks down everything you need to know about buying apartment buildings—from acquisitions and financing to asset management and dispositions. Nico shares real lessons from the trenches as an active investor and operator.
Each week, you’ll learn how to build wealth through multifamily real estate, create generational freedom for your family, and take action on buying your first (or next) apartment building. Discover strategies for joint ventures, partnerships, and syndications—so you can confidently invest, scale, and live life on your terms.
If you’re ready to buy buildings and build empires, this podcast will give you the tools, mindset, and confidence to get started.
Each week, you’ll learn how to build wealth through multifamily real estate, create generational freedom for your family, and take action on buying your first (or next) apartment building. Discover strategies for joint ventures, partnerships, and syndications—so you can confidently invest, scale, and live life on your terms.
If you’re ready to buy buildings and build empires, this podcast will give you the tools, mindset, and confidence to get started.
273 Episodes
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Every closing I’ve ever done has been chaos. Forget the champagne shots and social media hype — the reality is messy, stressful, and nonstop. In this episode, I break down what really happens when the deal closes, why most people aren’t cut out for multifamily, and how walking into the fire is the only way to grow. If you want the full story of my most recent crazy closing, check out [Episode 270]. 📌 Resources Mentioned: My Stan Store: https://stan.store/BuyBuildings Free Equity Split Calculator Deal Analyzer (“Deal Blade”) Strategy Call Booking Pre-Order My Full Course: Buy Buildings, Build Empires Join the Free Facebook Group: Buy Buildings, Build Empires 👉 Subscribe, leave a review, and share this with someone who needs to hear the truth about multifamily investing.
In this episode, Nico takes you inside the ugliest closing he’s faced yet — a 13-unit deal in Lakeland, Florida that nearly fell apart multiple times. What looked simple on paper turned into a brutal capital raise, endless back-and-forth with lenders and title companies, and a closing process that stretched out over a week of chaos. You’ll hear the unfiltered truth about raising $220K that felt like pulling teeth, what it’s like when your team can’t deliver, and how even experienced operators get blindsided. This isn’t the glossy “We Closed!” story you see on Instagram — this is the grind of real multifamily investing. If you’ve ever wondered what it actually takes to survive in this business, this episode is your reality check. 👉 Want the real tools to build credibility and last in this game? Grab my Credibility Kit, check out the Deal Blade Analyzer, or join my Buy Buildings, Build Empires community at SmallAxeCommunities.com.
I’ve done good deals and I’ve done bad deals—and the difference wasn’t luck. It came down to whether the right ingredients were in the mix. In this episode, I share the 7 key ingredients that make up the recipe for a truly good deal in multifamily investing: Price (and why chasing discounts alone can be a trap) Money in the bank & proof of funds Broker and seller relationships Operations and management Creative tools & terms (like seller financing) Team & infrastructure Personal readiness & discipline When you put these ingredients together, you’ve got a recipe that sets you up for long-term success. Miss even one, and the whole deal can fall apart. Listen in as I walk through how I’ve applied these ingredients—sometimes the hard way—and how you can use them to consistently find and close better deals.
In this episode, I break down a truth that too many people miss: in multifamily, the hardest part isn’t finding deals—it’s raising capital. I walk you through the cycles I’ve seen and learned about: Post-GFC (2009–2011): Deals everywhere, no capital. 2020–2022: Capital everywhere, no deals. Today: Deals are discounted, but the money is tight. We’ll cover why the game always shifts, why waiting for the “perfect” market is a trap, and how to think about capital preservation, cash flow, and growth in today’s climate. If you’re an operator, it’s time to double down on relationships and strategic partnerships. If you’re an investor, it’s time to stop letting inflation eat your money and start deploying wisely with operators you trust. This is about fundamentals, mindset, and playing the long game.
It’s late, I’m tired, and honestly, I almost didn’t hit record tonight. But that’s exactly what this episode is about—grit and showing up when it’s hard. I share the reality of what it takes to build something meaningful: recording hours of course content, juggling real deals with investors and lenders, handling personal struggles, and still pressing forward with no true days off. This isn’t about being perfect. It’s about committing, pushing through discomfort, and showing up even when you’re running on empty. Because the truth is, most people quit right before the breakthrough. If you’re tired, stressed, or doubting yourself—this one’s for you. You’re stronger than you think. Keep swinging. 👉 Join my new Facebook group: Buy Buildings, Build Empires Connect with others who are learning, investing, and grinding just like you. Hit the link in the show notes to join the community.
Most people have no business getting into multifamily real estate. It’s slow, risky, and messy — and if you don’t have the stomach for years of grind, you’ll get crushed. In this episode, I break down the brutal truths about multifamily investing: the sleepless nights, the endless “no’s,” the tenant headaches, the financial risks — and why this game isn’t for everyone. Then I’ll share who does thrive in multifamily: the hungry, the patient, the resilient. And I’ll give you a simple litmus test — my free Small Axe Deal Analyzer — to see if you’re really cut out for this world. 👉 DM me on Facebook or email info@smallaxecommunities.com to grab your free analyzer and join the community. Stay sharp, my fam.
What if I told you the secret to growth in real estate, business, and life is collecting as many “nos” as possible? In this episode, I break down why rejection isn’t failure—it’s information, momentum, and often just the first step toward a yes. I share stories from my own journey as a teacher, investor, and dad—whether it’s negotiating with sellers, asking vendors for discounts, building teams, or parenting. You’ll learn how to: Reframe rejection as opportunity Build resilience and confidence through hearing “no” Turn obstacles into stepping stones toward your next win Set the challenge of chasing 10 nos today If you’re tired of feeling stuck, afraid of rejection, or waiting for the perfect yes, this episode will help you shift your mindset and keep moving forward relentlessly. 👉 Want my Multifamily Deal Blade Analyzer or my Equity Split Calculator? DM me on Instagram or Facebook. Or email me at info@smallaxecommunities.com. I will send you a copy! 👉 Don’t forget to grab my free Credibility Kit at www.smallaxecommunities.com to strengthen your broker relationships. Sharpen your axe, embrace the nos, and keep pushing toward your empire.
Are you still hearing people say “pencils down”? Let’s get real—if you’re in this game, you can’t afford to step back from underwriting. In today’s episode, Nico breaks down why the “pencils down” mindset is a rookie move, and why sharpening your underwriting skills through every cycle is what separates real players from pretenders. You’ll learn: What “pencils down” actually means—and why it’s dangerous for investors Why underwriting deals daily keeps you sharp and market-aware The key metrics every investor should master (cash-on-cash, IRR, AAR, equity multiple) How refinances can fuel your returns—tax free Why Nico’s Multifamily Deal Blade is designed to help you underwrite every deal with clarity and confidence Whether the market is up, down, or sideways—you can’t sit this one out. Stay informed, stay dangerous, and keep sharpening your axe. 👉 Grab Nico’s Multifamily Deal Blade here: www.smallaxecommunities.com
In today’s episode, I break down exactly why now is the moment to buy multifamily real estate—even in a shaky market. I share what I’m seeing on the ground: sellers getting nervous, buyers pulling out, and deals coming back to the table at massive discounts. We’ll talk about: Why valuations are down 30–40% from 2022 levels How capital calls and struggling syndications are shaping today’s market The importance of locking in fixed-rate debt What to do if you don’t have capital right now (and how to build the right investor relationships) Why my Deal Blade analyzer can help you underwrite quickly, accurately, and confidently If you’ve been waiting for the “right time” to jump in, this might be it. Deals are out there—you just need the tools, the confidence, and the network to take advantage. 👉 Grab my Deal Blade analyzer for just $49 at smallaxecommunities.com and join the private Facebook group to connect with other serious investors.
After three years, countless versions, and real-world testing on actual deals, I’m finally ready to launch my Multifamily Deal Blade—the exact analyzer I use to underwrite properties in minutes with accuracy and confidence. In this episode, I walk you step-by-step through the tool, showing you how it works, what metrics it tracks, and how it can help you cut through the noise to focus on what matters most: cash flow, risk, and returns. Whether you’re brand new or a seasoned pro, this tool will make you faster, sharper, and more dangerous in the multifamily space. I’m also giving you access to my new Facebook group where you can get support, ask questions, and master deal analysis with other serious investors. Get the Multifamily Deal Blade here: 👉 smallaxecommunities.com/dealanalyzer Stop guessing your numbers. Start analyzing like a pro.
In this episode, I break down our real-life case study of a 10-unit Section 8 property we picked up in November 2023—right at the peak of interest rates. We negotiated it down from $950K to $825K, closed with a brutal 7.93% loan, and dealt with all the C-class chaos you can imagine… including a guy literally living in a boat in our parking lot. I’ll walk you through: How persistence won the deal after months of “no’s” Why we skipped renovations and parked our CAPEX at 5% interest Dealing with hurricanes, bad vendors, and Section 8 realities The upcoming refinance that could return 35–40% of investor capital tax-free Why infinite returns are the ultimate play This is the gritty, unfiltered side of multifamily investing most people don’t talk about. If you want to know what it really takes to win in C-class properties, this is your episode. Links: 🎯 Download the free Multifamily Credibility Kit: smallaxecommunities.com 📸 Tag me on Instagram: @_Nico_Salgdo 🎙️ Subscribe & share the show with someone who needs to hear this!
In today’s episode, Nico calls out the overcomplicated waterfall structures and financial gymnastics too many operators use to confuse LPs—and breaks down exactly how he structures his multifamily deals instead. You’ll hear: – Why Nico avoids IRR-based waterfalls and keeps things clean with a simple preferred return – How his investors get paid before he sees a dime – The exact split structure he uses (and why he never hides fees or plays games) – The real reason some syndicators overcomplicate things—and why Nico refuses to Whether you're an LP looking for transparency or an aspiring GP learning how to structure deals the right way, this episode will hit home. 👉 If this resonates, share the episode and tag @NicoSalgado on IG, TikTok, or LinkedIn. Let’s build empires the right way—brick by brick, deal by deal.
What if I told you that nobody cares about your effort—until you win? This is the brutal truth about building anything meaningful: your work is invisible until it pays off. In this raw, unfiltered solo episode, I pull back the curtain on what it really takes to build a real estate business while working a W2, raising a family, and getting kicked in the teeth by the grind. No exits. No millions. No highlight reel. Just truth. I’ve lost money. I’ve closed deals after restaurant shifts. I’ve stayed up late, missed vacations, and poured everything into a dream most people won’t care about until it “works.” This episode is for the ones still in the fight. The ones building with no applause. The ones doing it anyway. If you're grinding in silence, doubting yourself, or waiting for someone to care—this is your sign to keep going. 👊 The hustle is invisible—until it’s not. 🪓 Keep swinging. 🔨 Build your empire. 🎧 Hit play.
Are you chasing cash flow and forgetting the big picture? In today’s episode, I break down the real reason we invest in multifamily—and why the goal isn't instant riches, but long-term capital preservation and control. Here’s what I’m covering: The difference between cash flow and appreciation (and why you need both) Why preserving your capital should always come first How forced appreciation really works (and why it's not easy) Why multifamily beats stocks and single-family homes What to look for before parking your money in any deal If you're ready to stop thinking like a hobbyist and start thinking like an investor and business owner, this episode is for you. 🎯 Grab my Multifamily Credibility Kit at https://smallaxecommunities.com 📩 DM me for a copy of my Deal Analyzer 🛠️ Full course launch coming soon — stay tuned!
Are you staring at spreadsheets without really knowing what they’re telling you? In this episode, I break down the most important return metrics in multifamily real estate—from cash-on-cash and IRR to DSCR and equity multiple. I explain what they actually mean, why they matter, and how to use them to make smart investment decisions. We’re not just guessing here. These numbers tell a story—and if you know how to read them, you’ll stop overpaying, start protecting your capital, and finally start growing real wealth. Whether you're an LP trying to spot BS in a pitch deck or an operator building your summary page, this one is for you.
Episode 256 — Small Axe Podcast with Nico Salgado You’ve been studying. Listening. Watching. Underwriting. But that first multifamily deal? Still not happening. In this episode, I break down the real reasons you’re stuck—and they’re probably not what you think. 👉 It’s not just about money. 👉 It’s not just about the market. 👉 It’s not just about rates. We’ll cover: The hidden traps of “learning mode” Why brokers aren’t taking you seriously The confidence-killing habit that’s blocking your progress A step-by-step roadmap to finally break through How to build credibility (even without a deal) Plus, I share the exact 5 steps you can take this week to start gaining momentum—and get closer to closing your first building. ✅ Free Resource: Download the Multifamily Credibility Kit - www.smallaxecommunities.com 📥 DM me to get on the course waitlist: Buy Buildings, Build Empires 📩 Let's get your first deal under contract—fast.
Think you have to be a GP to succeed in real estate? Think again. In this no-fluff episode, I break down the four real levers that determine your success in multifamily: time, experience, education, and capital. Whether you’re short on cash but loaded with hustle—or sitting on capital but strapped for time—you’ll discover exactly where you fit in this game. I’ll show you how to build wealth without burning out, why being the face of the deal isn’t always the smartest move, and how to play your role like a pro. ✅ How to know if GP is right for you ✅ Why LPs might have the real edge ✅ The hybrid roles that most investors overlook ✅ What’s killing your momentum before you even start Stop following Instagram gurus blindly. Start building a real plan that matches your actual life.
Everyone’s nervous. Rates are high, the news is loud, and most investors are sitting on the sidelines. But I’m still buying. In this episode, I break down exactly why multifamily still makes sense in 2025—and why fear-driven inaction is costing people the opportunity of a lifetime. Here’s what you’ll get: Why I’m actively closing deals this year (with no outside capital) The real math behind today’s market What most people don’t understand about how wealth is created Why motivated sellers and creative financing are back What makes multifamily the most durable asset class—period If you’ve been waiting for the “right time” to get into multifamily, let me be clear: that time doesn’t exist. But smart investors learn to play the market they’re in. Tune in and start thinking like an operator.
Think you know how to underwrite? Think again. In Episode 253, I’m breaking down the real fundamentals of multifamily underwriting—what actually matters, what most people miss, and how to stop being emotional and start being objective. You’ll learn: The key metrics that matter most (and why) How to build a realistic pro forma (not just a fairy tale) Why most deals don’t pencil—and how to spot the ones that do How I underwrite deals using my own proprietary model Whether you’re still fumbling with napkin math or already analyzing deals weekly, this episode will sharpen your underwriting game—fast. 💻 Want my free Credibility Kit? Go to www.smallaxecommunities.com And my deal analyzer will be there too! If it's not ready for some reason, DM me and I will send you a Beta version! 🪓 Let’s sharpen your axe together.
In today’s episode, I get real about what it actually looks like to build a multifamily investing business from scratch. ✅ No fluff. ✅ No overnight success stories. ✅ Just the honest truth about the grind, the fees, and why I’m still in the game—despite not being financially free (yet). You’ll learn: Why I thought I’d be rich in a year... and what really happened The difference between active and passive investing (this is huge) Why you need to know your “why” before diving in What to expect if you're starting with no money If you’re serious about investing, don’t miss this one. 🎁 Grab my free Credibility Kit for new investors 👉 smallaxecommunities.com 📩 Want personal help getting started? DM me or reach out through the site. I still offer free intro calls—but not for long.
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