Syndicating is a B_tch with Bruce Peterson

Many of us have heard of or even witnessed the lucrative income potential from an apartment syndication deal. It is no secret that thousands of aspiring commercial real estate investors have entered into the space over the past decade or so in an attempt to benefit from this very lucrative strategy. But how many have succeeded? As lucrative as this strategy may be, apartment syndication isn’t for the faint of heart.

Our special guest on today’s episode is Bruce Petersen, Founder and CEO of The Apt-Guy. Bruce is an educator, best-selling author and syndicator of large multi-family properties throughout Central Texas ranging in size from 48-292 units. He was awarded the Austin Apartment Association’s Independent Rental Owner of the Year for 2016 and the National Apartment Association’s Independent Rental Owner of the Year for 2017 as well as Think Realty's Multifamily Investor of the Year 2019. 

After being disappointed in the messages he was receiving at various real estate conferences, Bruce felt inspired to share a more transparent message about the realities and hardships of being a syndicator and operator in the multifamily space. It was this inspiration that formed the basis for his book, “Syndicating is a B_tch” a no fluff, direct message as to what challenges come with the roles of a syndicator and what type of person it takes to manage those challenges. 

In this episode we cover:

What was Bruce’s inspiration for writing his book.

What were some examples of hardships he’s faced in his business.

Why not everyone is cut out to be a syndicator.

The importance of building a team of professionals with complimentary skillsets.

Bruce’s preference on his equity structures and why.

Tune in today to hear Bruce discuss all of these important topics and so many more!

 The Final Four:

1.     What do you like to do for your continued education to further your investing?

Bruce: “I’ll be honest, I’ve never read an investing book in my life. I just followed a coach and they taught me everything. I’m very involved with the Apartment Association hence I am always surrounded by people smarter than me. I read a lot of personal development book and I read it all the time." 

2.     What have been some of the lasting lessons that you have learned throughout your journey?

Bruce: “Be self-aware. Know what you are good at and know what you suck at. Own it and ego might get in the away most of the time and we are denial of it. We are all not good at some stuff and if you will not admit it you will hurt yourself and your investors, if you are a syndicator."

3.     What advice would you give to the listeners to help them grow their businesses?

Bruce: “Don’t be scared. Being afraid will keep you exactly where you are. If you will always do what you always did, you’ll always get what you always got. Henry Ford said that and it’s true. Many people are not happy, satisfied and fulfilled. You cannot do something that will put your family under a bridge, but at the same time, take chances on yourself.  Listen to smart people. If the people around you are not supporting you on your endeavors, then quit hanging around from them. They might be fantastic but they are not helping you. Believe in yourself and move forward. Make changes if needed.”

 4.     How can the listeners learn more about and connect with you?

Bruce: 

Visit our website: https://apt-guy.com/
Bruce’s book @: https://apt-guy.com/book/

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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/apt-guy/
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