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The Do More Podcast

Jon Farling

Jon Farling shares tips and insights into what’s helped him become successful in the world of real estate investing during and after quitting his 9-5 job. His self-storage portfolio has grown well into 8 figures because of the insights he and his guests will share. Not only will he share tips on his entrepreneurship journey, but also his personal life.

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20 episodes
weekly
Avg 25 min
English

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S3 · E166
September 28 · 17 min
Is Marketing killing your NOI?
Today, we're diving into the nitty-gritty of marketing for your storage facilities, and trust me, there's a lot to unpack. The big takeaway? A lot of folks are just tossing marketing strategies out there and hoping something sticks—like spaghetti on a wall, but less appetizing. I share insights from my own experiences, especially in small-town Ohio, where you might be the only player in the game yet still spend too much on advertising. We talk about the importance of tracking your marketing effectiveness and exploring alternative methods beyond just Google and Facebook ads, like billboards, local sponsorships, and even the good old Yellow Pages. Stick around as we explore how to make your marketing money work smarter, not harder, because who doesn’t want to fill those storage units without breaking the bank?
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S3 · E165
September 21 · 33 min
How Storage is performing compared to previous years
Today, we're diving into the nitty-gritty of storage performance over the years, and let me tell you, it's been quite the rollercoaster ride! I’ve been crunching numbers from my portfolio since 2019, and I’m ready to spill the beans on how my facilities stack up against trends in both smaller and larger markets. Spoiler alert: the demand in your area can make all the difference! We’ll chat about everything from occupancy rates to the impact of market demand on pricing strategies, and how sometimes, it’s the little guys who come out on top. So, grab your favorite beverage, kick back, and let’s unpack these numbers together—I promise it won’t be a snooze-fest!
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S3 · E164
September 14 · 22 min
Does Self Storage ever really Stabilize?
Stabilization in self-storage is a topic that often raises more questions than answers, and today we're diving into what it really means. Picture this: you've got a self-storage facility, and you're wondering if it's truly stabilized. This term essentially refers to when a property has hit its market potential—boasting stable occupancy, predictable income, and normalized expenses. However, we argue that even if you think you've hit that sweet spot, there's always room for improvement. In our chat, we explore the nuances of stabilization, dissecting my own experiences with two very different storage facilities. One has been a cash cow, continually improving in occupancy and revenue, while the other seems to be in a downward spiral. The contrast between these properties highlights that stabilization is not a one-size-fits-all scenario. The first facility has seen consistent growth, while the second illustrates the impact of market saturation and increasing competition. Together, we unpack the idea that true stabilization might be a myth, but aiming for that 80–90% mark is not only achievable but essential to maximizing your investment's potential.
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S3 · E163
September 7 · 38 min
Matt Bilger – Self Storage Market Update
Today, we're diving into the shifting landscape of self-storage appraisals with our good buddy, Matt Bilger from Colliers International. The big takeaway? Self-storage appraisals are taking a hit compared to the booming years of 2019 and beyond, thanks to rising interest rates and economic uncertainty. Matt breaks down how the pandemic paused everything, then a flood of cheap money led to a wild appraisal frenzy, only for the brakes to slam on recently as interest rates climbed. We chat about the changing dynamics in the market, where larger players are now flexing their financial muscles while smaller operators are feeling sidelined. Plus, we sprinkle in some lighthearted banter about the quirks of the appraisal world and how AI is becoming a handy tool in the business.
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S3 · E162
August 31 · 34 min
From Banking to Boxes: Kenny's Journey to Storage Success
Kenny Buelterman is here to chat about his journey from a 20-year banking career to becoming a full-time self-storage investor, and trust me, it’s a ride worth tuning into! He shares how he made the leap from W-2 life to financial freedom, the challenges he faced during the transition, and how he found his groove in the storage space. We’ll also dive into his new venture, a postcard business that helps storage facilities reach potential customers in a creative way. Kenny shares some solid insights on the importance of having a clear vision and the right motivation to propel you forward, plus a few tips on negotiating with banks that you won’t want to miss. So, whether you’re looking to break into real estate or just need a little inspiration to chase your dreams, this episode is packed with gems!
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S3 · E161
August 24 · 23 min
Why Dreaming is Important
Dreaming big isn’t just about setting ambitious goals—it’s about creating a vision for the life you actually want. In this episode, we dive into why big dreams matter for entrepreneurs, leaders, and really anyone looking to make an impact. Success looks different for everyone. Maybe your dream is building a business empire, creating financial freedom, or simply having more time with the people you love. Whatever it looks like, your dreams are allowed to change as you grow. I share personal stories about how my own dreams have evolved over the years and how those dreams have shaped not only my career, but also the way I view life and success. So grab your favorite beverage, kick back, and let’s talk about why dreaming bigger might just be the first step toward building a more fulfilling life.
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S3 · E160
August 17 · 26 min
Are you playing Offense or Defense
Are you playing offense or defense in your business? That’s the big question we tackle today, drawing inspiration from the thrilling moments of the World Cup. Just like Argentina turned up the heat in the final minutes of their semifinal match, we discuss the importance of being proactive rather than reactive in business. Whether you’re in self-storage or any other industry, it’s essential to ask yourself: Are you building, or are you simply surviving? We explore how many business owners fall into the trap of “playing it safe” and what that really means for their growth and bottom line.
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S3 · E159
August 10 · 18 min
Comparison is the thief of Joy
Comparison is the thief of joy, and this week, we're diving deep into why that saying rings truer than ever—especially in the world of real estate investing. I've been hearing about investors losing deals left and right. It's like a weekly soap opera, and you won't believe the twists and turns! We chat about how those flashy numbers you see on social media can mess with your head and why focusing on your own journey is far more important than keeping up with the Joneses (or the million-dollar syndicators). I'll share some personal stories and insights from my experiences in mastermind groups, where it often feels like a pissing contest over who has the most assets under management. But at the end of the day, I'm here to remind you that what really matters is your cash flow, equity, and, most importantly, your happiness and fulfillment in this wild ride called real estate.
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S3 · E158
August 3 · 19 min
The hidden costs of being Nice in Business
Today, we're diving into the hidden costs of being nice in business, and trust me, it's a bit of a doozy. We've got five main points that highlight how being too accommodating can actually hurt your bottom line. Who knew kindness could come with such a price tag, right? We'll cover everything from avoiding rent increases to the pitfalls of keeping underperforming employees around. You might think you're being a nice guy or gal by not raising rents or by holding onto a struggling employee, but those decisions can end up costing you big time. So, grab your favorite beverage and settle in as we explore how to balance kindness with the hard truths of running a successful business.
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S3 · E157
July 27 · 17 min
How to get ahead in Life
Getting ahead in life is all about consistency and working when no one’s watching, and today we’re diving into just that! I’m no expert—just someone piecing together life lessons and experiences, hoping you’ll take away something valuable along the way. I’ve noticed a trend, especially in youth sports, where kids seem to depend on trainers to push them, missing out on learning how to hold themselves accountable. It’s almost like they think an hour with a coach is enough, but we all know real growth happens when you’re out there on your own, putting in those extra reps. So, let’s chat about how showing up every day, even when it’s just you, is the secret sauce to success in whatever you’re passionate about—whether it’s sports, work, or just life in general.
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S3 · E156
July 20 · 22 min
Just closed on our 19th Storage Facility – here’s what I learned
We've just wrapped up closing on our 19th self-storage facility, and let me tell you, it's been quite the ride! This time, we're diving into the nitty-gritty of how we snagged this latest gem in Ohio—yep, Ohio again! I'll take you behind the scenes of our journey, from negotiating terms to the thrill of closing day, all while navigating a few bumps along the way. The big takeaway? It's all about knowing your market and staying connected with your brokers because, if I hadn't been vocal about my interest in Ohio self-storage, this deal might have slipped right through my fingers. So, grab a comfy seat, and let's explore the ups and downs of self-storage investing together!
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S3 · E155
July 13 · 42 min
Unlocking the Secrets of Seller Financing: Ben Golden's Journey
Ben Golden joins us to share his journey from the fast-paced software world to owning self-storage facilities and launching his reputation management platform, Revy. We dive into his unique approach to sales, where he emphasizes the value of building relationships rather than simply closing deals. Ben's story is all about finding the perfect balance between professional ambition and family life, as he transitioned from a demanding corporate role to entrepreneurship, allowing him more time with his loved ones. We also explore the ins and outs of seller financing and how it can be a game-changer for both buyers and sellers in the self-storage industry. Additionally, Ben shares how keeping a pulse on tenant satisfaction can lead to stellar reviews and improved retention, along with valuable insights on leveraging technology to enhance the customer experience and drive business growth.
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S3 · E154
July 6 · 27 min
Top 10 reasons why you’re seeing deals fail
If you've been scratching your head wondering why so many commercial real estate deals are falling apart, you're not alone! Today, we're diving into the top reasons behind this unsettling trend, with a special focus on self-storage and multifamily properties. It turns out that investing is often a bit of a gamble—speculation is part of the game, and sometimes even the best underwriting can't predict the future. We'll discuss the impact of short-term debt, the dangers of aggressive underwriting, and the consequences of failing to keep a close eye on changing market conditions. Plus, I'll share my thoughts on the importance of cash flow and why it should be your north star when navigating these challenging waters. So, grab a comfy seat and join us as we unravel this commercial real estate conundrum together!
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S3 · E153
June 29 · 19 min
Does unit count matter?
Does unit count really matter in the world of real estate? Spoiler alert: yes—but maybe not for the reasons you think. In today’s episode, I’m diving into why unit count shouldn’t be just a bragging point or an ego boost, but rather a crucial metric for scaling your business effectively. We’ve all seen people flaunting their million-dollar portfolios, but let’s be honest—numbers alone don’t tell the whole story. I’ll break down how having more units can lead to better financing options, improved operational systems, and ultimately a more sustainable business model. So grab your favorite drink and settle in as we explore why scaling smartly can make all the difference.
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S3 · E152
June 22 · 24 min
Focus is the new Superpower
Today, we’re diving into the often-overlooked but crucial topic of focus in our lives and businesses. It’s easy to think that being busy equals being productive, but let me tell you—many people are just spinning their wheels! We’ll unpack the recent drama in the real estate world involving a well-known investor who reportedly lost a staggering $15 million on a deal, and how a lack of focus—particularly when it comes to social media—may have played a role in that outcome. Throughout this episode, I’ll share some of my own experiences and discuss the importance of keeping your eye on the ball, whether you’re in real estate or any other business venture. If you’re tired of chasing shiny objects and want to focus on what truly moves the needle, grab your favorite drink, sit back, and let’s dive in!
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S3 · E151
June 15 · 49 min
Rob Dubroc – from 0 to 40-plus Storage Facilities in 4 years
Rob Dubroc is our guest today, and he's here to share his journey from aerospace to self-storage—and trust me, it's a wild ride! After a series of unexpected career twists, Rob found himself in the self-storage industry, and boy, does he have some insights to share about scaling a business in this niche. We'll dive into the nitty-gritty of how he went from flipping houses to managing a portfolio of storage facilities and the lessons he learned along the way. Ever wondered how artificial intelligence is reshaping the way we think about software and operations? Rob has some thoughts on that too, discussing how AI is more than just a shiny new toy—it's a game-changer for efficiency. So grab your favorite drink, settle in, and let's unpack the world of self-storage with Rob!
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S3 · E150
June 8 · 24 min
When does competitive drive serve you and when does it own you?
Youth sports have taken a wild turn, and I’m here to spill the tea! Today, I’m diving into how the landscape of kids’ sports has shifted from equal playing time to a cutthroat level of competition that even third graders are feeling. I’m sharing my own experiences as a dad navigating this new world with my young athletes—my son, who’s knee-deep in soccer and basketball, and my daughter, who’s flipping her way through gymnastics. We’ll chat about the pressure on coaches to win rather than focus on developing young talent, and how that impacts our kids’ love for the game. Spoiler alert: It’s not all sunshine and trophies. I’ve got some thoughts on how we can balance that competitive drive with a little more fun, growth, and fulfillment. So grab a snack, settle in, and let’s unpack this together!
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S3 · E149
June 1 · 16 min
Why you should NEVER buy based off Cap Rate and which metric you should be using
Buying based on cap rate? That’s a no-go, folks! In today’s chat, we’re diving into why you should steer clear of cap rates when considering your next commercial property purchase. First off, let’s break it down: a cap rate is essentially the return you’d expect on an all-cash investment. But let’s be real—most of us aren’t shelling out cash for these properties like we’re at a garage sale. I’ll share some juicy tidbits about how sellers and brokers can twist the numbers to make a cap rate look more enticing than it really is. Instead of getting caught in that trap, we’ll discuss the metrics that actually matter when buying, like cash-on-cash return, which can lead to a much more profitable investment down the line. So grab your favorite beverage, and let’s get into the nitty-gritty of making smarter investment choices!
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S3 · E148
May 25 · 19 min
When did it become cool to not work?
When did it become cool not to work? That’s the burning question we’re tackling today, and trust me, it’s a juicy one. We’ve all seen those folks flaunting their four-hour workweeks and endless vacations, but what about the hard workers who are grinding away? It seems like the pandemic turned the working world upside down, and now some people are celebrating a carefree lifestyle instead of pouring their talents into something meaningful. I’ve got a bit of a rant brewing about how that mindset can be not just misguided, but downright selfish. So whether you’re a hustler or just someone enjoying the fruits of their labor, let’s chat about why it’s crucial to keep pushing the envelope and contribute value to others. Because after all, what’s the point of freedom if you’re just sitting around?
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S3 · E147
May 18 · 20 min
Top 2 underwriting mistakes people make when deals fail
Understanding the intricacies of real estate investing is crucial, especially in today’s fluctuating market. One of the main points I want to share today is the importance of a solid capital stack and how it can make or break your deals. Many investors stumble by overlooking the stability of their financing, often getting caught up in short-term debt that can lead to serious financial strain down the line. We’re diving into the top two mistakes that can derail your self-storage investments, and I’ll be sharing insights from recent conversations I’ve had with fellow real estate investors that really highlight these pitfalls. Along with that, we’ll discuss the vital role operations play in ensuring your investment thrives, especially when occupancy rates are lower than expected. Stick around as we unpack these important topics that could help you avoid costly missteps in your investment journey.
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