Episode Overview

In this insightful episode, Alicia DiBrell sits down with Jacob and Arleen Garza—an entrepreneurial couple who transformed their careers to conquer the world of multi-family real estate investing. From transitioning from traditional jobs to building a thriving real estate portfolio and authoring an international bestseller, they share the lessons learned on their journey, how they mitigate risk, and why education is key to financial freedom.

Key Discussion Points

• Background & Career Shift:

  • From Corporate to Real Estate:
    Arleen, a former banking executive, and Jacob, a software entrepreneur, recognized the need for sustainable income and turned to multi-family real estate investing after questioning the longevity of their previous careers.

• Inspiration Behind the Book:

  • Sharing the Journey:
    “A Leap of Faith” was born out of a desire to pay it forward. By blending personal experiences, successes, and failures, they crafted a narrative that educates and inspires.

  • Fictional Narrative Approach:
    They chose a fable-like storytelling method—introducing characters like Elena and Gabriel—to simplify complex investment concepts, making them relatable and engaging.

• Why Multi-Family Real Estate?

  • Risk Management & Income Stability:
    They discuss how multi-family investments offer advantages over single-family homes by reducing vacancy risks and basing property values on income potential rather than comparables.

  • Market Selection:
    San Antonio, Texas, a landlord-friendly market where they began by purchasing eight properties, served as their testing ground. Their strategy emphasizes investing in familiar, well-researched markets.

• Investor Education & Partnership:

  • Resources & Transparency:
    The Garzas stress the importance of educating investors through blogs, podcasts, investor dinners, conferences, and even bus tours. They advocate for transparent communication and personalized investor relations.

  • Choosing the Right Partners:
    They advise potential investors to “bet on the jockey, not the horse,” encouraging thorough research and direct conversations before investing.

• Current Trends & Future Outlook:

  • Housing Shortage & Market Fundamentals:
    With millions of rental units needed across the U.S., the demand for multi-family housing continues to rise—especially in markets like Texas with strong job growth and population increases.

  • Diverse Investment Strategies:
    They highlight the benefits of diversification, including the option to invest in real estate through self-directed IRA accounts, thus reducing reliance on traditional stock market investments.

• Giving Back:

  • Supporting the Community:
    Profits from the book contribute to The THRU Project, a charity dedicated to helping foster kids in San Antonio secure a brighter future through mentoring, education, and essential support services.

Final Takeaways

• Financial Freedom Through Education:
  Empower yourself with knowledge and build passive income through strategic multi-family real estate investments.

• Leverage Expertise & Partnerships:
  Don’t invest alone—partner with experienced professionals who value transparency and have a proven track record.

• Take the Leap:
  Whether you’re new to investing or looking to diversify your portfolio, the Garzas’ journey shows that with the right education and support, anyone can succeed.

How to Connect

• Learn More & Get Involved: