In this episode of "A Canadian Investing in the US," host Glen Sutherland interviews Chris Micucci, a college professor and real estate investor who began investing just over three years ago. After taking Glen's class, Chris quickly seized an opportunity presented in an email and bought his first property. Since then, he has engaged in various investment strategies, including flips and the BRRRR (Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, Repeat) method, and has transitioned into lending as a Canadian mortgage agent working with American lenders.

Chris emphasizes the importance of taking action in real estate investing, highlighting that many potential investors fall into analysis paralysis. He believes that success comes from actively engaging in the market and learning through experience. The conversation then shifts to the lending landscape for Canadians investing in the US. Chris outlines how lending practices differ between Canada and the US, emphasizing that in the US, the rental income generated by a property is the primary factor for mortgage qualification, rather than the investor's income or credit score.

Key points discussed include:

The significance of having a solid team and the importance of networking in the real estate industry.

The various types of loans available in the US, with a focus on purchase loans and how property vacancy can impact loan rates.

The necessity for proper documentation and organization when applying for loans, as well as the importance of understanding property value before making purchases.

The benefits of using a lender for investment projects, as they provide oversight and protection during renovations.

Chris also advises potential investors to consider hiring a coach to navigate the complexities of US real estate investing or at least work closely with knowledgeable lenders. The episode concludes with Chris sharing his contact information for those interested in exploring lending options for their investment properties.

EP365 From Flips to Financing: Hidden Strategies f/ Canadians Investing in the US with Chris Micucci

In this episode, Glen sits down with Ian, founder of Avoca Property, for a candid and action-packed conversation about the real behind-the-scenes journey of closing a multifamily deal. 

From early missteps in digital marketing and investor engagement, to legal battles, PE fund bait-and-switches, and $200,000 in legal fees — Ian doesn’t hold back on the tough lessons learned.

They talk about:

The challenges of raising capital without a track record

Navigating flaky commitments from family offices and equity partners

Why retail investors ended up being the key to getting the deal over the line

The unexpected downside of expensive mastermind groups

How Avoca Property is now approaching capital raising before bidding on deals

Why working only with people you trust is the ultimate success metric

Glen and Ian also compare notes on their eerily similar journeys — flipping hundreds of single-family homes, co-GPing larger multifamily deals, and learning (sometimes the hard way) how to structure better partnerships and raises for future projects.

If you’re in the trenches of real estate investing, syndication, or capital raising, this one’s for you. Full of wisdom, war stories, and laughs — don’t miss it.

EP366 How We Almost Lost It All — And Closed Anyway with Ian Drewe

Helping anyone invest in the U.S. real estate market from anywhere!

New tracks tagged #Chris Micucci