Learn how BUSY PEOPLE like you can build substantial passive income while creating wealth for the long-term. Gain expert knowledge and advice on real estate investing as Marco Santarelli (of Norada Real Estate Investments) shares his strategies and valuable insights with an emphasis on Passive and Turnkey (done-for-you) real estate investments. Discover proven strategies and a wealth formula for making money with real estate in ANY market and avoid common and costly mistakes. If you're looking…
In this Throwback Thursday episode, Melissa reconnects with the lender who helped her purchase her very first property, Aaron Chapman, a seasoned investor-lender and trusted voice in the real estate industry. Together, they tackle the question many investors are asking right now: Should I buy, wait, or just hide under the covers? The conversation goes beyond market uncertainty, exploring the traps…
Click Here for the Show Notes Is withdrawing money from your IRA early to buy a rental property a smart financial move? In this episode, we break down the pros and cons of using retirement funds for a real estate investment, including potential tax penalties, long-term wealth-building opportunities, and key factors to consider before making a decision. Learn how to evaluate whether the potential…
Click Here for the Show Notes Expanding a real estate portfolio takes more than simply buying more properties—it requires using the right growth strategies at the right time. In this episode, discover seven proven ways investors can scale faster, from maximizing leverage and tapping into equity to using 1031 exchanges, multifamily investing, the BRRRR method, creative financing, and short-term…
Click Here for the Show Notes This podcast explores why real estate can offer advantages over the stock market by providing investors with opportunities to leverage market inefficiencies, local expertise, and strategic relationships. James Nelson emphasizes the importance of becoming an expert in a specific market, understanding seller motivation, building a trusted team, and conducting thorough…
Click Here for the Show Notes In this episode, Robert Allen shares the inspiration behind The One Minute Millionaire, an innovative book that combines nonfiction and fiction to engage both analytical (left-brain) and creative (right-brain) thinkers. The book pairs practical wealth-building strategies with a compelling story about Michelle, a widow who must become an entrepreneur and earn $1…
Click Here for the Show Notes Remote property management doesn't have to mean giving up control—or hiring a full-service property manager. As more investors expand into out-of-state markets, technology is making it easier than ever to successfully self-manage rental properties from anywhere. In this episode, we reveal the five essential rules for managing rentals remotely, share the biggest…
Click Here for the Show Notes How do successful real estate investors build lasting wealth instead of chasing the next hot deal? In this episode, Dave Meyer shares why strategy—not luck—is the key to long-term success. From defining your investment vision and choosing the right real estate strategy to balancing risk, cash flow, and appreciation, you'll learn the framework behind building a…
Click Here for the Show Notes Your credit score plays a bigger role in your financial life than many people realize. From securing better mortgage and auto loan rates to qualifying for rentals and other financing opportunities, strong credit can open doors and save you money. In this episode, we break down what a credit score is, how your credit profile works, and the key steps you can take to…
Click Here for the Show Notes After more than 20 years in real estate investing, Chad Carson has built a portfolio that generates enough rental income to support his family’s year-long adventure living in Spain, proving that financial freedom is about more than wealth—it’s about creating the time and flexibility to live life on your own terms. His approach centers on being a “small and mighty”…
Click Here for the Show Notes Is now a good time to invest in real estate? How do you find a good property manager? What financing options are available to investors? In this episode, Marco and Oliver tackle some of the most common questions real estate investors ask and share practical insights gained from years of experience in the industry. From evaluating investment opportunities and avoiding…
Click Here for the Show Notes In this episode, several important real estate investing questions are addressed, starting with how vacancy allowances, lease-up fees, and property management costs should be accounted for when analyzing rental property cash flow. The discussion clarifies why lease-up fees are often treated separately from monthly management fees and how investors can create more…
Click Here for the Show Notes In this Throwback Thursday episode, the discussion focuses on smart mortgage payoff strategies and practical real estate investing tips for both new and experienced investors. Topics include how bi-weekly mortgage payments can reduce the life of a loan and save thousands in interest, why paying extra toward principal early matters most, and the pros and cons of paying…
Click Here for the Show Notes From flipping contracts in California’s Central Valley to building wealth through out-of-state investing in Texas, this conversation dives deep into the real-world mechanics of real estate wholesaling and why it remains one of the fastest ways to generate capital in today’s market. Todd shares how he transitioned from passive investing into wholesaling, explains the…
Click Here for the Show Notes In this insightful conversation, the podcast featured a seasoned real estate investor and entrepreneur who shared how financial independence through real estate can create true freedom and flexibility in life. The guest discussed transitioning from a traditional career path into entrepreneurship after discovering a passion for real estate investing and the lifestyle…
Click Here for the Show Notes In this episode, real estate investor Michael breaks down the difference between the “how-to” questions and the deeper “why” behind investing in rental real estate. From inflation hedging and cheap leverage to turnkey investing, cash flow, property management, and long-term wealth building, this conversation dives into the mindset and strategy that separate successful…
Click Here for the Show Notes Part 2 of 7 Common Questions Asked of Our Investment Councilor covers the next wave of investor questions, focusing on markets, neighborhoods, property performance, management, financing, and post-purchase support. A key theme is that there’s no single “best” option—decisions depend on individual goals like cash flow versus appreciation. Investors often favor…
Click Here for the Show Notes On today’s episode, we’re switching things up. Inspired by the idea that the first step to getting answers is having the courage to ask questions, we’re diving straight into the real conversations happening every day between investors and our team of investment counselors. With clients ranging from complete beginners to seasoned pros—and every situation as unique as…
Click Here for the Show Notes This episode dives into the journey of a real estate investor turned financial strategist who transformed a powerful concept into a practical system for investors. Inspired early on by Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki, the guest built a thriving real estate career—only to discover that high deal volume doesn’t always mean real profit. After experiencing the “real…
Click Here for the Show Notes Dive into a thought-provoking conversation with seasoned investor and finance expert Aaron as we tackle one of today’s biggest questions: are mortgage rates really too high? Drawing on decades of experience, we break down why interest rates might matter less than you think—and how smart investors focus on the bigger picture. If you’re wondering whether now is the…
Click Here for the Show Notes Adam shares how he went from a client seeking passive income to a wealth coach helping others build scalable cash flow through the Tardus Income Snowball strategy. By consistently investing and reinvesting cash flow into amortized, income-generating opportunities, clients can rapidly grow monthly passive income while increasing their ability to invest in assets like…
Click Here for the Show Notes In this episode, we tackle a timely question from a listener: is it still wise to invest in real estate while interest rates are rising? The key takeaway is that rising rates alone shouldn’t deter you—what matters most is whether the deal itself makes financial sense. While borrowing costs have increased, today’s mortgage rates remain below long-term historical…
Click Here for the Show Notes Today’s question from Carlos cuts straight to a fear many aspiring investors quietly carry: how do you keep buying properties if your salary stays the same? In this episode, we unpack the real mechanics behind scaling a real estate portfolio—without needing a skyrocketing income. You’ll discover how lenders actually view your finances, why rental income (even at just…
Click Here for the Show Notes Thinking about your next real estate move? In this episode, we break down whether leasehold condos are truly worth the risk, why a 20-year break-even should raise red flags, and how to spot real growth vs. speculation. Plus, we uncover the truth behind neighborhood ratings—and why not all “B-class” areas are created equal. If you want to invest smarter, avoid costly…
Click Here for the Show Notes Feeling stuck with a rental property that’s draining your wallet instead of building your wealth? In this episode, Marco answers a listener question from Kelly, who’s been struggling with two Baltimore properties that have produced over $20,000 in losses, constant tenant issues, damages, and even squatters. Marco breaks down the key factors every investor should…
Click Here for the Show Notes In this episode, we break down the REAL Returns of Real Estate Investing and why the famous advice—“Don’t wait to buy real estate, buy real estate and wait”—holds so much truth. Instead of focusing on cash flow alone, we dive into the three powerful pillars that drive real estate wealth: income, equity, and appreciation. Using a simple example of a $100,000 rental…
Click Here for the Show Notes In this episode of Ask Marco, real investors from California and Utah bring powerful questions about creative financing, refinancing for growth, partnership exits, and whether to sell or hold in markets like the San Francisco Bay Area and Bakersfield. Marco breaks down how to evaluate the math behind zero- and low-money-down deals, when refinancing makes sense, how to…
Click Here for the Show Notes In today's episode, Cameron asked about signing up for a session to learn more about NORADA and how to improve his real estate game plan. While formal mentorship isn’t offered, guidance comes through educational content and, more importantly, through a free strategy session with an investment counselor. In that session, you’ll clarify your goals, align expectations…
Click Here for the Show Notes Should you put your next $100,000 into turnkey rentals—or chase higher returns in passive accredited investments? In this episode, we break down the real question behind the numbers: are you investing for income today or capital gains tomorrow? Marco unpacks the powerful difference between predictable cash-flow investments and long-term equity growth plays—and reveals…
Click Here for the Show Notes In this episode of Passive Real Estate Investing, guest host Melissa Nash sits down with longtime investor Jefferson Howell to unpack what it really looks like to start—and scale—a real estate portfolio as a busy professional. From buying his first turnkey property out of state to growing to 11 doors across multiple markets, Jefferson shares his mindset, strategies,…
Click Here for the Show Notes In this episode of Ask Marco, we dive into a question every serious real estate investor eventually faces—but few truly understand: how umbrella insurance actually works inside a real asset protection structure. Listener Shaw lays out an impressive setup with multiple LLCs, holding companies, trusts, and layered insurance, then asks the big question: should umbrella…
Click Here for the Show Notes In this episode of Passive Real Estate Investing, guest host Melissa Nash sits down with returning guest Steve to break down how investors are making new construction actually cash flow in today’s market. Drawing from years of experience across multiple states, Steve dives deep into build-to-rent duplexes, triplexes, and fourplexes—specifically spotlighting a new…
Click Here for the Show Notes In today’s episode, Marco answers a listener question from Rose, a newer real estate investor navigating the frustrations of escrow shortages and surprise payment demands. After purchasing a three-unit property in Massachusetts, Rose wonders whether it’s worth managing property taxes on her own or sticking with lender-managed escrow accounts. Marco breaks down how…
Click Here for the Show Notes Today’s question is a fascinating one and comes from Brian, who asks: How do you invest in real estate when you’re a nomad? Brian and his wife recently sold their primary residence to spend more time with their kids, splitting life between family, a vacation rental, and the open road—while sitting on about $200,000 in capital but showing little to no traditional…
Click Here for the Show Notes How much cash should you really keep in reserve for your rental properties—and how does that change as your portfolio grows? In today’s episode, Marco answers a great question from listener Clint, who’s actively scaling his Kansas City rental portfolio and wants to avoid tying up too much idle cash while still protecting himself from vacancies, repairs, and surprises.…
Click Here for the Show Notes In this episode, Marco tackles a common but often misunderstood real estate investing question: how do you quickly tell if a neighborhood is an A, B, or C area—especially when investing out of state? Responding to a listener aiming for financial independence through rental properties, Marco breaks down the simple patterns that separate high-risk, high-cash-flow…
Click Here for the Show Notes In today’s episode, Marco answers a detailed question from Dave, who’s working to replace his day-job income with consistent rental cash flow. Dave wants to know whether focusing on lower-cost properties—typically under $100,000 and producing $250–$350 per month in true net cash flow—is the smartest way to scale both income and number of properties. Marco breaks down…
Click Here for the Show Notes In this episode, Marco responds to a thoughtful question from Chris, a 23-year-old mechanical engineer eager to begin his real estate investing journey with an eye toward long-term time freedom. With $30,000 saved and an interest in low-cost, cash-flowing rental properties, Chris asks what approach makes the most sense for a first investment and which markets to focus…
Click Here for the Show Notes Today’s question comes from Daniel, a new real estate investor wrestling with a concern we hear all the time: Do you need to live near your investment properties to be successful? In this episode, Marco breaks down why proximity is often overrated and why smart investors should think beyond their backyard. Using a simple stock market analogy and real-world examples,…
Click Here for the Show Notes In today’s Throwback Thursday episode, Marco dives into a great question from listener John, who wants to know when it actually makes sense to sell a rental property—especially through a 1031 exchange—and reinvest in a stronger market. Marco breaks down the few, but important, scenarios where selling is smart: major market shifts like job or population declines, a…
Click Here for the Show Notes In today’s episode, we sit down with Dave to demystify one of the most powerful strategies in real estate investing: the 1031 exchange. From how it works, to why it’s been around for more than a century, to the step-by-step process investors should follow before they sell a property—Dave breaks it all down in a way that’s simple, practical, and surprisingly fun. We…
Click Here for the Show Notes Today’s Throwback Thursday episode of Passive Real Estate Investing brings back a listener favorite that’s just as relevant now as when it first aired. In this episode, Marco revisits a great question from Victor, a new investor who—along with his sister—recently closed on their first three seller-financed rental properties. Victor asks when investors should start…
Click Here for the Show Notes The episode explores the critical role that insurance plays in real estate investing, particularly for rental properties. The conversation covers the types of policies investors should understand, emphasizing liability coverage and the difference between actual cash value and replacement cost, along with noting that wind and hail coverage is typically included. It…
Click Here for the Show Notes In today’s episode, we tackle an important question from listener Lindsey: “Should I pay off my rentals?” Lindsey already owns multiple duplexes and a quadplex, but she’s wrestling with a common dilemma—keeping debt low versus using leverage to accelerate passive-income growth. We break down key factors like your goals, timeline, equity, and the role of good debt to…
Click Here for the Show Notes In this episode of Passive Real Estate Investing, Melissa Nash and seasoned lender Aaron Chapman break down the headline everyone’s talking about: the 50-year mortgage. They dig into how this could impact affordability, cash flow, inflation, and long-term leverage—and why waiting for “perfect timing” could leave investors completely sidelined. With clear, no-nonsense…
Click Here for the Show Notes Today’s episode dives into a question many new investors wrestle with: Should you buy a long-term rental or take a swing at a short-term vacation rental? Sandy, who’s currently working with my team, reached out for guidance as she and her partner prepare to purchase their first investment property in Florida. While long-term rentals offer predictability and stability,…
Click Here for the Show Notes Ready to turn a simple 1031 exchange into a wealth-building machine? In this episode, Melissa and seasoned investor-builder Josh unveil a powerful new twist on the traditional 1031—what they’re calling the “Poor Man’s Improvement” (aka the strategy that can create six figures of instant equity while deferring taxes). Josh breaks down how his team helps investors sell…
Click Here for the Show Notes In today’s Throwback Thursday Ask Marco episode, Marco revisits a timeless question from Martin, who’s preparing to pay off his debts and move from Central California to Central Oregon. Martin wants to know whether buying a multi-unit property with an FHA loan—living in one unit while renting out the others—is a smart move. Marco breaks down the strategy known as…
Click Here for the Show Notes In today’s Throwback Thursday episode of Passive Real Estate Investing, Marco answers an insightful listener question from MJ — a common dilemma for many investors looking to grow their portfolio. MJ asks whether it’s wiser to use cash for a 20% down payment on a second home or vacation rental, or to tap into home equity and keep cash invested in the stock market and…
Click Here for the Show Notes In this episode, Melissa sits down with a first-time real estate investor who took the leap into purchasing her very first long-term rental property. She shares how her interest in real estate began nearly a decade ago while living in the Bay Area—an environment where investing felt out of reach due to the high cost of living. Drawn to the tangible nature of property…
Click Here for the Show Notes Today’s question comes from Carlos — and it’s a great one because it touches on four of the most common questions real estate investors ask when building their portfolios. In this episode, Marco breaks down the key decisions every investor faces: choosing between a 15-year or 30-year mortgage, deciding whether to buy pre-construction or newly renovated properties,…