In this episode of the Know Your Why Podcast, Jason Balara sits down with Chris Prefontaine, founder of Smart Real Estate Coach, to dive deep into the world of creative financing and long-term real estate strategies. With more than 34 years in the industry, Chris shares how the 2008 market crash reshaped his career and forced him to rebuild from the ground up. He explains how owner financing, lease purchase deals, and subject-to-existing-loan strategies can unlock opportunities for investors in any market cycle. The conversation also highlights the power of coaching, community, and personal growth as cornerstones for lasting success in real estate.

Key Highlights:

- Chris Prefontaine brings decades of real estate experience, shaped by both wins and setbacks.

- The 2008 crash left Chris facing financial and personal turmoil, fueling his reinvention.

- Creative financing—owner financing, lease purchase, and subject-to deals—offers flexible ways to invest.

- Coaching and mentorship are critical for navigating challenges and avoiding costly mistakes.

- Building community helps real estate investors grow faster and adapt more effectively.

- Understanding your "why" provides clarity and motivation through market shifts.

- Adaptability is essential, as the real estate market constantly evolves.

- Long-term thinking creates sustainable growth rather than short-term wins.

- Relationships and trust with clients are vital to success in creative deals.

- Chris continues to practice what he teaches, actively closing deals today.

Chris’s story is a powerful reminder that setbacks can spark reinvention. By combining creative financing with mentorship and community support, he shows how real estate investors can thrive even when markets shift. This episode will inspire you to rethink your strategies, embrace personal growth, and pursue long-term success with clarity and confidence.

Get in touch with Chris:

Get a free copy of Chris’s book: http://wickedsmartbooks.com/knowyourwhy

Website: http://smartrealestatecoach.com/connect

If you want to know more about Dr. Jason Balara and the Know your Why Podcast:

⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/jasonbalara⁠⁠  

Audio Track:

Back To The Wood by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license.⁠⁠ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/⁠⁠

Artist:⁠⁠ http://audionautix.com/