In this episode, we welcome Jay Maranan, a successful real estate investor who has grown his portfolio to an impressive 548 units spread across various states, including San Francisco, San Antonio, Oklahoma City, and more. Jay dives into his journey starting from using his VA loan to buy his first property in San Francisco and how he turned personal financial challenges into real estate opportunities. He shares insights into house hacking, leveraging equity through cash-out refinancing, and making the bold move to out-of-state investments. One pivotal moment was the passing of his mother in 2018, which shifted his mindset towards achieving financial freedom and living life to its fullest. Jay also touches on critical aspects of building a powerful network, raising private money, and transitioning into larger commercial deals like multifamily properties. For veterans, Jay offers golden advice on utilizing the VA loan and nurturing opportunities. This episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiration for anyone looking to scale their real estate investments. ⏰ Timestamps: 00:50 First Steps in Real Estate 01:45 Understanding Equity and Refinancing 05:14 Family and Financial Challenges 06:10 Scaling Up and Expanding Portfolio 08:15 House Hacking and Renovations 15:06 Mindset Shift and Motivations 19:25 Navigating the COVID Market 24:38 Starting the Flip in South San Francisco 26:22 Joining Zen Coast Mentorship 27:28 First Out-of-State Investment 28:54 Raising Private Money for Real Estate 35:02 Networking and Co-GP on Commercial Deals 43:18 Venturing into Assisted Living Investments 🔗 Connect with Jay: https://www.instagram.com/jay.invests/ 🍿 Watch Next How much can you make hosting travel nurses ➡️ https://youtu.be/JPDtc4T7HyY Always Booked with Brian Koch ➡️ https://youtu.be/SSuASl6LWQM 👕 Join our meet-ups: nvstcapital.com 🖥 Visit my website: j-baldovino.com 📷 Follow Josh on Instagram: instagram.com/joshua_baldovino 📱 TikTok: vm.tiktok.com/ZMejX5dD1/ 🎧 Listen on Spotify: https://bit.ly/jbcashflow1 Help me, help you! 🏝 Become an Airbnb Host and get $40: http://www.airbnb.com/r/jbaldovino1 🧑🏽‍💻 Get a free 14 free trial of my favorite automation software and CRM: https://www.gohighlevel.com/?fp_ref=invested-creators33 — My Set Up: Sony A7C (webcam): https://amzn.to/3IFq5OG Sigma 24-70mm (Lens): https://amzn.to/3HtlSgZ Shure SM7DB (mic): https://amzn.to/46GMybn Neewer LEDs (Lights): https://amzn.to/3o8VyRo Elgato Cam Link (HDMI to webcam): https://amzn.to/3o9Ac6D Elgato Stream Deck MK.2 (Studio Control): https://amzn.to/3rcnZjn Logitech MX Master 3 (Mouse): https://amzn.to/3HcHn5u Logitech K750 Wireless Solar Keyboard: https://amzn.to/3HfCFE2 Apple AirPods 3rd Gen: https://amzn.to/3HfCFE2 Bose QC35 (Headphones): https://amzn.to/3GcLFZ2 😎 Links may be affiliate links that pay me a small kickback. Thanks for clicking and supporting the channel! 🙏🏽