• 2025 Fix & Flip Trends: Design Secrets for Maximum Profit
    Feb 20 2025

    The real estate game is changing in 2025, and if you’re still flipping houses the way you did in 2020, you’re already behind. Buyers are more selective, and cookie-cutter flips won’t cut it anymore. In this episode of Raising The Flipping Bar, I break down the biggest design trends and strategies that will help you flip faster, sell for more, and stay ahead of the competition.

    I’ll cover multifunctional layouts, eco-friendly materials, and the power of great staging—plus, I’ll give you real-world examples from my own projects. If you want to make your properties stand out and maximize profit, this is the episode for you.

    In this episode, you’ll learn:

    • Why multifunctional layouts are replacing open floor plans: Buyers want defined, adaptable spaces that serve multiple purposes.
    • How to use eco-friendly and durable materials smartly: Invest in sustainability without blowing your renovation budget.
    • Why staging is essential for smaller spaces: Well-placed furniture makes rooms feel bigger and helps buyers visualize their new home.
    • How color palettes and design details can make your flip memorable: Neutral isn’t enough—learn what colors and finishes actually attract buyers.
    • The power of indoor-outdoor living spaces for resale value: Patios, pergolas, and smart outdoor layouts can give your property an edge.

    If this episode resonated with you, please leave a review and share it with a fellow investor!

    Connect with Derek Marlin and ELEVATION!

    Derek on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/derekmarlin

    ELEVATION’s website: https://elevationinvest.com/

    ELEVATION on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/elevationinvestmentproperties

    ELEVATION on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elevationinvest/

    ELEVATION on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elevationinvestmentproperties

    Subscribe to the “Raising the Flipping Bar” on your favorite podcast player!

    Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3ByYmxv

    Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3WbUCeQ

    Watch “Raising the Flipping Bar” on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ELEVATIONRealEstateInvesting

    #RealEstateInvesting #FixAndFlip #HouseFlipping2025 #HomeDesignTrends #RealEstateTips #FlippingHouses #MaximizeROI #EcoFriendlyHomes #StagingToSell #RenovationTrends #MultifunctionalDesign #HouseFlippingTips #IndoorOutdoorLiving #MarketTrends #SmartInvesting



    Show More Show Less
    27 mins
  • Flipping Dirt for Profit: How This Couple Built Real Estate Income & Flexibility with Mike and Ligia Deaton
    Feb 13 2025

    Real estate investing isn’t just about buying properties—it’s about buying the right ones, at the right price, with the right strategy. And if you’ve ever wondered how to successfully invest in land flipping, multifamily deals, and passive income strategies, this episode is for you.

    I’m joined by Mike and Ligia, two investors who have mastered the art of finding undervalued land, structuring smart deals, and pivoting in changing markets. They break down their journey from land flipping to large-scale multifamily syndications and share insider tips on buying below market value, creating passive income, and navigating real estate cycles.


    In this episode, you’ll learn:

    • Why land flipping is a great entry point for investors: Learn how to find and buy land at 50% or less of market value for fast, profitable deals.
    • How owner financing creates reliable passive income: Selling land with monthly payments can turn a one-time deal into years of recurring revenue.
    • The key to profitable multifamily investing: It’s not just about acquiring units—timing, market trends, and financing structures all play a role.
    • How to pivot when market conditions change: Rising interest rates and economic shifts affect every investment strategy—know when to buy, hold, or sit out.
    • Why working with the right partners is critical: Investing is a team sport—vet your partners, align your goals, and build trust before jumping into deals.

    📢 Want to make smarter real estate investments? Subscribe to Raising the Flipping Bar for expert insights, and visit https://elevationinvest.com/ to learn more about proven real estate strategies!

    Don’t miss our discussion on the future of flipping, the power of creative design, and the lessons these two have learned along the way. Let’s dive in!

    Connect with Mike Deaton:
    Website:https://flippingdirt.us/

    Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelbdeaton/

    Connect with Ligia Deaton:
    Website:https://flippingdirt.us/

    Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ligia-deaton-1a99a944/


    Connect with Derek Marlin and ELEVATION!


    Derek on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/derekmarlin

    ELEVATION’s website: https://ELEVATIONinvest.com/

    ELEVATION on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ELEVATIONinvestmentproperties

    ELEVATION on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ELEVATIONinvest/

    ELEVATION on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ELEVATIONinvestmentproperties


    Subscribe to the “Raising the Flipping Bar” on your favorite podcast player!

    Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3ByYmxv

    Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3WbUCeQ


    Watch “Raising the Flipping Bar” on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ELEVATIONRealEstateInvesting


    #RealEstateInvesting #PassiveIncome #LandFlipping #MultifamilyInvesting #RealEstateStrategy #FinancialFreedom #SmartInvesting #PropertyInvestment #WealthBuilding #CashFlow #InvestorsMindset #RealEstateSuccess #LongTermWealth #BuyAndHold #InvestSmart

    Show More Show Less
    45 mins
  • The “Fix & List” strategy for Quick ROI with Travis Masse
    Jan 31 2025

    Flipping houses isn’t just about major renovations—it’s about strategy. In this episode of Raising The Flipping Bar, I sit down with Travis Masse, our senior project manager at Elevation, to break down the Fix & List strategy.

    We walk through real-world case studies and show how minor upgrades can lead to major profits without over-improving. Whether you're an investor looking to maximize returns or an agent helping clients sell for top dollar, this episode is packed with actionable insights.

    In this episode, you’ll learn:
    1. How the Fix & List strategy maximizes profit: The key upgrades that boost home value without blowing the budget.
    2. Why smart renovations outperform full-scale remodels: How targeted improvements can attract buyers and speed up sales.
    3. What common rehab mistakes cost investors money: Avoiding over-improvements and knowing where to allocate your budget.
    4. How to manage contractors for speed and efficiency: Insider tips on hiring, negotiating, and keeping projects on track.
    5. Why having a contingency budget is critical: Planning for unexpected costs so they don’t eat into your profits.

    Flipping success starts with the right approach. If you're ready to elevate your investment game, subscribe to Raising The Flipping Bar and connect with us for more expert strategies!

    Don’t miss our discussion on the future of flipping, the power of creative design, and the lessons these two have learned along the way. Let’s dive in!

    Connect with Travis Masse:
    Website: https://elevationinvest.com/

    Connect with Derek Marlin and ELEVATION!
    Derek on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/derekmarlin
    ELEVATION’s website: https://elevationinvest.com/
    ELEVATION on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/elevationinvestmentproperties
    ELEVATION on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elevationinvest/
    ELEVATION on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elevationinvestmentproperties

    Subscribe to the “Raising the Flipping Bar” on your favorite podcast player!
    Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3ByYmxv
    Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3WbUCeQ

    Watch “Raising the Flipping Bar” on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ELEVATIONRealEstateInvesting

    #FixAndList #FlippingHouses #RealEstateInvesting #HouseFlippingTips #SmartRenovations #HomeFlipping #RealEstateSuccess #InvestmentProperties #FlippingStrategy #PropertyInvesting #FixerUpper #RealEstateProfits #RenovationROI #HomeSellingTips #FlippingMastery

    Show More Show Less
    39 mins
  • Wholesaling vs. Flipping: Which Strategy Maximizes Your ROI?
    Jan 23 2025

    In this episode, we're diving deep into the world of wholesaling with insights straight from my personal experience. I'll explore the nuances, challenges, and strategies behind successful wholesaling in real estate. Whether you're flipping properties or scaling your portfolio, understanding wholesaling is a game-changer.

    What You’ll Learn in This Episode

    • The key difference between flipping and wholesaling: Discover how each strategy works and when to choose one over the other.
    • Maximizing profits through smart decision-making: Learn how to analyze deals and decide whether to wholesale or flip based on ROI and market conditions.
    • The importance of transparency in wholesaling: Why honest communication with buyers and sellers is critical for long-term success.
    • Tools and strategies for building a cash buyer list: How software like PropStream and InvestorLift can revolutionize your deal flow.
    • Managing cash flow constraints in your business: Practical tips for handling capital and ensuring consistent deal volume.


    If this episode resonated with you, please leave a review and share it with a fellow investor!


    Connect with Derek Marlin and ELEVATION!

    Derek on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/derekmarlin

    ELEVATION’s website: https://elevationinvest.com/

    ELEVATION on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/elevationinvestmentproperties

    ELEVATION on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elevationinvest/

    ELEVATION on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elevationinvestmentproperties

    Subscribe to the “Raising the Flipping Bar” on your favorite podcast player!

    Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3ByYmxv

    Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3WbUCeQ

    Watch “Raising the Flipping Bar” on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ELEVATIONRealEstateInvesting



    #RaisingTheFlippingBar #RealEstatePodcast #WholesalingTips #FlippingVsWholesaling #InvestmentStrategies #RealEstateInsights #PropertyInvesting #TransparentWholesaling #RealEstateTools #CashBuyerList #ElevationAcademy #RealEstateEducation #PodcastForInvestors #RealEstateSuccess #ScalingRealEstateBusiness



    Show More Show Less
    29 mins
  • 3 Proven Strategies to Master Your Time and Scale Your Real Estate Business
    Jan 16 2025

    Are you ready to make 2025 your best year in real estate? In this episode of Raising the Flipping Bar, I’m sharing the strategies I’m using at ELEVATION to set goals, streamline focus, and build momentum into the new year. From fine-tuning lead generation techniques to cutting through distractions, I’m here to help you start 2025 with a bang.

    I’ll break down practical tips like the “MORE - BETTER - NEW” framework and how to say no to distractions to stay laser-focused on what moves the needle. This episode is packed with actionable advice to help you prioritize, optimize, and crush your goals in real estate and beyond.


    Connect with Derek Marlin and ELEVATION!

    Derek on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/derekmarlin

    ELEVATION’s website: https://elevationinvest.com/

    ELEVATION on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/elevationinvestmentproperties

    ELEVATION on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elevationinvest/

    ELEVATION on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elevationinvestmentproperties

    Subscribe to the “Raising the Flipping Bar” on your favorite podcast player!

    Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3ByYmxv

    Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3WbUCeQ

    Watch “Raising the Flipping Bar” on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ELEVATIONRealEstateInvesting

    #RealEstateInvesting #TimeManagementTips #ProductivityHacks #Entrepreneurship #GoalSetting2025 #RealEstateStrategies #BusinessGrowth #WorkSmarterNotHarder #ScalingYourBusiness #RealEstateSuccess



    Show More Show Less
    17 mins
  • Why New Year's Resolutions are Bullshit! A Better Way to Crush 2025
    Jan 9 2025

    Today’s episode is all about breaking free from the New Year’s resolution trap and setting yourself up for real, lasting success in 2025. Spoiler alert: I think New Year’s resolutions are total BS, and here’s why.

    In this episode, you’ll learn:

    • Why 91% of people fail to stick to their resolutions: The common mistakes and how to avoid them.
    • The power of identifying your "why": How connecting to a deeper purpose fuels consistent progress.
    • How big, audacious goals can keep you motivated: Even if you don’t hit them, the progress is worth it.
    • Why saying no more often matters: Free up time and energy for what truly aligns with your goals.
    • How a single word or phrase can guide your year: Focus on what matters in every area of your life.

    This episode is packed with actionable insights you can apply to your fitness, business, and personal life. My word for 2025 is intentional, and I’ll share exactly how I’m putting it into practice to grow my business and improve my life.

    What’s your word or phrase for 2025? Share it with me on social media or connect with us directly—I’d love to hear how you’re kicking off the year!

    Connect with Derek Marlin and ELEVATION!

    Derek on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/derekmarlin

    ELEVATION’s website: https://elevationinvest.com/

    ELEVATION on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/elevationinvestmentproperties

    ELEVATION on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elevationinvest/

    ELEVATION on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elevationinvestmentproperties

    Subscribe to the “Raising the Flipping Bar” on your favorite podcast player!

    Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3ByYmxv

    Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3WbUCeQ

    Watch “Raising the Flipping Bar” on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ELEVATIONRealEstateInvesting

    #NewYearsGoals #ProductivityTips #EntrepreneurMindset #GoalSetting2025 #NoResolutionsNeeded #BusinessGrowth #RealEstateSuccess #MindsetShift #FocusAndWin #CrushYourGoals #DerekMarlin #2025



    Show More Show Less
    23 mins
  • 5 Essential AI Tools to Transform Your Real Estate Business with Eli Wood
    Jan 2 2025

    Are you ready to revolutionize your workflow with AI? In today’s episode, I’m joined by Eli Wood of Black Flag Design, who’s back to share his expertise on integrating AI tools into real estate investing and business operations. Eli breaks down five essential AI tools and how they can save time, reduce costs, and boost efficiency.

    From leveraging ChatGPT to mastering MLS data analysis, we explore how AI is changing the game for investors, agents, and contractors. Whether you’re new to AI or looking to refine your tech stack, this episode has actionable insights to help you adapt and thrive.


    In this episode, you’ll learn:

    • How AI tools can simplify repetitive tasks: Automating routine activities like data entry, emails, or reports frees up time for high-value strategic work.
    • Why tools like ChatGPT go beyond search to enhance workflows:
      With its ability to create tailored outputs like contracts or client presentations, ChatGPT acts as a versatile assistant.
    • The benefits of using specialized AI for real estate, such as MLS optimization: AI can quickly analyze large datasets, identify market trends, and pull comps faster than manual research, giving you a competitive edge.
    • How to integrate AI tools for cost-effective solutions that save time: Combining multiple AI tools reduces dependency on outsourcing and streamlines operations for a more efficient process.
    • Why staying adaptable with AI is crucial for future business success: Being open to learning and integrating new tools ensures you remain relevant and ahead in the competitive landscape.

    If you’re looking to stay ahead in real estate or business, this episode is your roadmap to making AI work for you.

    Connect with Eli Wood:

    Website: https://www.blackflag.design/

    Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/notthatactor



    Connect with Derek Marlin and ELEVATION!


    Derek on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/derekmarlin

    ELEVATION’s website: https://elevationinvest.com/

    ELEVATION on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/elevationinvestmentproperties

    ELEVATION on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elevationinvest/

    ELEVATION on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elevationinvestmentproperties


    Subscribe to the “Raising the Flipping Bar” on your favorite podcast player!

    Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3ByYmxv

    Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3WbUCeQ


    Watch “Raising the Flipping Bar” on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ELEVATIONRealEstateInvesting


    #RealEstateInvesting #RealtorLife #RealEstateAI #PropTech #RealEstateMarketing #AIForRealEstate #RealEstateStrategies #InvestmentTips #RealEstateTrends #TechForAgents





    Show More Show Less
    30 mins
  • How is AI Revolutionizing Real Estate Investment with Eli Wood
    Dec 27 2024

    Today, I’m thrilled to introduce Eli Wood, co-founder of Black Flag Design. With a background that blends fine arts, architecture, and cutting-edge AI technology, Eli’s journey is nothing short of inspiring.

    In this episode, you will be able to:
    1. Discover the potential of AI technology in real estate investing and how it can revolutionize your investment strategies.
    2. Learn how to adapt and stay ahead in the real estate market by harnessing the power of AI advancements.
    3. Explore the benefits of incorporating AI into your real estate entrepreneurship for smarter decision-making and higher returns.
    4. Uncover effective strategies for scaling your real estate ventures using AI technology as a game-changer.
    5. Gain insights on transitioning from traditional careers to tech startups in the real estate industry and how AI plays a pivotal role in this shift.

    Eli also shares actionable insights for adapting to rapid technological changes and how Black Flag Design helps businesses leverage AI effectively.

    Connect with Eli Wood:
    Website: https://www.blackflag.design/
    Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/notthatactor

    Connect with Derek Marlin and ELEVATION!

    Derek on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/derekmarlin
    ELEVATION’s website: https://elevationinvest.com/
    ELEVATION on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/elevationinvestmentproperties
    ELEVATION on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elevationinvest/
    ELEVATION on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elevationinvestmentproperties

    Subscribe to the “Raising the Flipping Bar” on your favorite podcast player!
    Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3ByYmxv
    Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3WbUCeQ

    Watch “Raising the Flipping Bar” on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ELEVATIONRealEstateInvesting

    #design #aifforrealestate #aitools #blackflagdesign #businessstrategy #aiforbusiness #derekmarlin #realestatepodcast #investment #podcast #businesspodcast #realtorlife #denverrealtor #ai #realtorsofinstagram

    Show More Show Less
    24 mins