In the latest episode of "Raising Private Money," Jay Conner dives deep into the nuances of mortgage note investing and private money with his good friend, Jamie Bateman. Renowned for his success in raising over $3,000,000 in private money, Jamie shares his journey and insights into leveraging mortgage notes as a powerful investment vehicle. This episode is a goldmine for both seasoned investors and newcomers looking to expand their portfolios. Let's break down the themes and insights discussed during this illuminating conversation.

Jay Conner's Real Estate Wisdom

A Wealth of Experience

Jay Conner, a real estate investor who began his journey in 2003, has rehabbed over 500 houses. His experience spans various facets of real estate, making him a credible guide for aspiring investors. Conner emphasizes one crucial lesson: avoid operating in isolation. He avows that seeking mentorship from experts can save you from costly mistakes and accelerate your path to success.

Jamie Bateman on Mortgage Notes

The Strategic Advantage

Jamie Bateman, a prominent voice in mortgage note investing, emphasizes the versatility of this investment strategy. Mortgage notes offer a unique advantage: you can invest across state lines without ever visiting the properties. This location independence is a game-changer, making it easier to diversify your investment portfolio.

Moreover, mortgage notes come with a relatively low barrier to entry. Utilizing a licensed loan servicer simplifies compliance and licensing hurdles. This ease of access complements existing residential real estate investing experience and provides opportunities for creative and analytical investment strategies. However, Jamie notes that mortgage notes lack inherent tax advantages. Fortunately, this limitation can be mitigated with self-directed accounts.

Passive Investors' Opportunity

Jamie offers a tantalizing glimpse into the potential for passive investors to earn high returns by partnering with him. For those interested, Jamie’s platform offers pathways to explore these lucrative opportunities further.

Understanding Private Money in Real Estate

Securing Single-Family Houses

Jay Conner elucidates how private money underpins real estate transactions, particularly in single-family houses. Utilizing promissory notes to secure private lenders is a prudent strategy, complemented by collateral via a deed of trust or mortgage. Insurance policies include private lenders as mortgagees, and Conner maintains a conservative loan-to-value ratio of 75%. Additionally, a 90-day call option provides a safety net for emergencies.

Collateral and Mortgage Notes

Mortgage notes employ a similar protective measure through hypothecation, where the note and deed of trust serve as collateral. An illustrative example is purchasing a $70,000 principal balance note for $50,000 and borrowing $30,000 against it. Such flexibility in terms is mutually agreed upon between lender and borrower, making mortgage notes a versatile investment vehicle.

Jamie Bateman’s Journey

Transition from Defense to Entrepreneurship

Jamie Bateman’s career transition exemplifies the allure of real estate for control and flexibility. After 14 years at the Department of Defense, Jamie ventured into real estate, leveraging his family background in the field. His journey began with rental properties using the BRRR method and pivoted to mortgage notes in 2018. Jamie’s varied experiences, including title work, have enriched his investment acumen.

Evolving Strategies in Raising Capital

Organic Growth

Jamie shares his organic approach to raising private money: documenting his investment journey on social media and blogs attracted interest from potential investors. This visibility led to his first substantial investment from a former col