Real Estate Development: Land to Legacy

By: Eugene Gershman
  • Summary

  • The ultimate podcast for aspiring real estate developers and enthusiasts. As we meet new partners and investors, our conversation frequently revolves around sharing stories of success and failures. These experiences helped us learn valuable lessons, and now we are ready to share them with our listeners. Hosted by Eugene Gershman, a real estate developer with over 20 years of experience, this show bridges the gap between beginners and industry professionals
    Eugene Gershman
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Episodes
  • The Secrets to Securing Loans and Managing Risk
    Jan 23 2025

    Navigating today’s real estate financing landscape is tougher than ever, with rising interest rates and tighter lending environments. Jake Clopton, founder of Clopton Capital, explains how to overcome these challenges by leveraging strategic capital sources, understanding the trade-offs between equity and debt, and effectively presenting loan packages to lenders. From creative uses of debt funds to risks in pre-development financing, Jake shares practical advice and insider tips to help developers and investors secure funding and manage risk in a volatile market.


    Guest Bio

    Jake Clopton is the founder and president of Clopton Capital, a leading commercial real estate financing firm specializing in debt origination, equity placement, and structured capital solutions. With over 16 years of experience, Jake has facilitated transactions across multifamily, retail, industrial, hospitality, self-storage, and other asset classes. Known for his expertise in creative financing strategies and his deep network of capital sources, Jake helps clients navigate complex financing challenges and achieve their investment goals.


    Episode Highlights and Chapters

    [00:01:00] Jake’s Background and Expertise

    Jake shares how he founded Clopton Capital and the broad scope of his work, from fixed-rate loans to innovative financing solutions for specialty projects.


    [00:03:00] Deciding Between Debt and Equity

    A breakdown of how ownership structures influence the choice between equity and debt, with considerations for risk, cost, and recourse.


    [00:05:25] What Are Debt Funds?

    Jake explains how debt funds fill the gap left by banks, offering flexible, entrepreneurial lending options while carrying higher costs.


    [00:07:47] Pre-Development Financing Risks

    The pros and cons of leveraging debt for pre-development costs, and why timing and planning are critical to avoid costly delays.


    [00:10:31] Securing Construction Loans

    Jake reveals how the lending environment has shifted, requiring more equity and extensive outreach to secure competitive construction financing.


    [00:13:00] Alternative Financing Tools: A Practical View

    An honest look at the pros and limitations of PACE loans, including where they can add value and why they’re not always the best solution.


    [00:15:08] Packaging a Deal for Success

    Key advice for presenting loan requests: organization, transparency, and understanding the underwriter’s perspective.


    [00:21:00] Market Momentum After the Election

    Jake discusses the significant uptick in investor activity and deal flow, driven by renewed confidence in the market.


    Contact Information

    To connect with Jake Clopton, visit:

    • Website: cloptoncapital.com

    • LinkedIn: Jake Clopton on LinkedIn


    For more episodes and resources, visit the host, Eugene Gershman, at giscompanies.co/podcast.

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    23 mins
  • Zoning, Financing, and Real Estate Growth
    Dec 12 2024

    Wayne Courreges III, Managing Principal at CREI Partners, shares a wealth of knowledge on mastering risk and maximizing returns in commercial real estate development. From leveraging seller financing to building relationships with municipalities, Wayne reveals how to navigate zoning challenges, evaluate investment risks, and structure deals that attract and retain investors. With $50 million in assets under management and a portfolio spanning multifamily, self-storage, and build-to-rent communities, Wayne’s insights offer a roadmap for success in real estate development.


    Guest Bio


    Wayne Courreges III is the Managing Principal of CREI Partners, a firm dedicated to helping investors diversify into commercial real estate. Specializing in multifamily, self-storage, and build-to-rent developments, Wayne brings over 16 years of experience at CBRE to his leadership role. Based in Bryan-College Station, Texas, Wayne is known for his strategic approach to real estate investment, with $50 million in assets under management and a hands-on commitment to every project.


    Episode Highlights and Chapters


    [00:02:00] From CBRE to CREI Partners

    Wayne discusses his career journey, including his transition from 16 years at CBRE to managing CREI Partners and overseeing $50 million in assets.


    [00:04:00] Understanding Risk and Investor Profiles

    Wayne delves into the risk factors of new developments versus existing properties and how he aligns opportunities with investor preferences for cash flow or equity growth.


    [00:09:00] Deal Structures and Target Returns

    Explore CREI’s approach to structuring investments, offering 7–10% cash-on-cash returns and targeting 15% IRR for existing properties and 20–25% IRR for developments.


    [00:14:00] Reducing Risk Through Zoning Expertise

    Wayne explains how he mitigates risk by handling zoning and entitlement work before raising equity, leveraging seller financing, and focusing on local markets like Bryan-College Station.


    [00:23:00] The Power of Relationships

    From working with city councils to engaging with HOAs and community members, Wayne highlights the importance of building trust and addressing concerns to ensure project success.


    [00:27:00] Leadership in Development

    Wayne emphasizes the role of developers as leaders, balancing delegation with hands-on involvement in critical aspects of a project, such as stakeholder engagement and team coordination.


    [00:30:00] Advice for Investors and Developers

    Wayne offers actionable advice for passive investors and active developers, stressing the value of education, showing up, and fostering meaningful connections.


    Contact Information


    To learn more about Wayne Courreges III and CREI Partners:

    • Visit CREI Partners

    • Connect with Wayne on LinkedIn: Wayne Courreges III

    • Explore free educational resources at Passive Investor Coaching


    For more expert insights into real estate development, visit https://giscompanies.co/podcast/.

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    32 mins
  • Feasibility Studies and Team Building for Developers
    Dec 7 2024

    Real estate development offers incredible opportunities but demands careful planning and preparation to avoid costly mistakes. Sonny Moyers explains why building the right team and conducting a thorough feasibility study are essential for success. He shares insights on navigating hidden costs, creating strong contracts, and avoiding common pitfalls that derail projects. Whether you’re an aspiring developer or an experienced investor, Sonny’s practical advice will help you build wealth and legacy in real estate.


    Guest Bio


    Sonny Moyers is a highly accomplished real estate professional with more than 50 years of experience. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Management and Communications and a Master of Science in Psychology from Abilene Christian University. As President of The Renaissance Group, Sonny has led one of the most successful real estate teams in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. His achievements include being named REALTOR® of the Year by the Dallas Builders Association and earning recognition as a top producer for over a decade. Known for his engaging speaking style and actionable strategies, Sonny is committed to helping others succeed in real estate.


    Episode Highlights and Chapters


    [00:01:00] The Two Paths to Development

    EG outlines the two primary ways individuals enter real estate development: institutional training and independent projects.


    [00:05:00] The Role of Feasibility Studies

    A comprehensive feasibility study is crucial for any project. Sonny discusses how to evaluate costs, timelines, and risks to ensure a successful outcome.


    [00:10:00] Building Your Support Team

    Learn how to assemble a team of professionals—including architects, appraisers, and attorneys—to guide your project from start to finish.


    [00:15:00] Identifying Hidden Costs

    Sonny explains often-overlooked costs like holding expenses, insurance requirements, and unexpected contractor fees, and how to plan for them.


    [00:22:00] The Power of Detailed Contracts

    Protecting yourself starts with the right contracts. Sonny shares real-world examples of how clauses like liquidated damages can prevent project delays and financial loss.


    [00:26:00] Lessons for Developers

    Sonny wraps up with a call to action: start with a solid plan, work with knowledgeable professionals, and approach development with patience and diligence.


    Contact Information


    To learn more about Sonny Moyers and his work, visit his website: https://www.thearchitectureoftherealestatepractice.com/

    YouTube: @AREP2023

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/theodeamoyersgroup/


    For more episodes of Real Estate Development: Land to Legacy, visit Eugene Gershman’s podcast page: https://giscompanies.co/podcast/.

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    28 mins

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