Strategic Realty

solutions for real estate

  • Buy
    • Search Real Estate
    • Tour Open Houses
    • New Homes For Sale
    • Popular Communities
    • Golf Courses
      • Tetherow
      • Pronghorn
      • Lost Tracks
      • Brasada Ranch
      • Meadows
      • Woodlands
      • Crosswater
      • Awbrey Glen
      • Widgi Creek
      • Rivers Edge
      • Caldera Springs
    • Distressed Property Listings
      • Bank-Owned Properties in Central Oregon
    • Property Taxes for Deschutes County
    • Relocation to Bend
  • Sell
    • Quick Property Valuation
    • Short Sale FAQs
  • Read
    • Press Releases
    • Blog
  • About
    • Our Team
    • Contact

A Guide to Building Wealth with the BRRRR Method in Real Estate Investment

By Kerry ONeal

If you’re keen on diving into the world of residential real estate investment, you may have stumbled upon the term BRRRR. This stands for Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, Repeat, and serves as a strategic roadmap for long-term real estate investing. Unlike the one-time profit of house-flipping, the BRRRR method aims for a steady income stream and long-term equity growth, making it ideal for those invested in the long haul.

Demystifying the BRRRR Method

The BRRRR framework provides a structured approach to real estate investment. Starting with purchasing a property in need of some TLC, you move through a series of steps—renovation, rental, refinancing—to ultimately cash out your initial gains. Then the cycle begins anew with another property, setting up a chain of compounding financial rewards.

Even if you’re new to real estate, this multi-step strategy can be approachable with the right planning and a comprehensive grasp of market dynamics.

The Cornerstone: Property Acquisition

As real estate investor and finance educator Todd Baldwin rightly puts it, “Your profitability is determined at the acquisition stage.” Securing a property at a discounted rate or under market value is your first win, simplifying the challenges that follow. Ideally you will never spend more than 70% of the after-rehabitation-value on the acquisition.

Breaking Down the BRRRR Steps

Buy: With a sea of options, it’s crucial to focus on properties requiring upgrades but with promising financial potential. Conduct thorough due diligence to know the exact scope and timeline of necessary renovations. Also, understand your financing options and cash requirement for the project up front. Don’t get so focused on the property that you lose sight of the money side of the equation.

Rehab: This stage involves making the property appealing and livable for tenants. While you might not be an expert in rehabbing, professional consultation can offer accurate cost and timeline estimations. Always have a contingency budget for unexpected expenditures. Control your costs and control your timeline.

Rent: Once the property is up to standard, your goal is to rent it out at a rate that at least covers your mortgage. Property management companies can be invaluable in handling the complexities of tenant relations and ongoing maintenance. Getting the wrong tenant in the property could kill the whole project.

Refinance: This is where patience plays a role. You’ll be accumulating equity in the property as you await the opportune moment for a cash-out refinance. Different lenders have varying conditions, so a nuanced understanding of these requirements is critical.

Repeat: The unique selling point of the BRRRR method is its replicability. Once you’ve mastered one cycle, you’ll find each subsequent iteration easier, adding layer upon layer to your income-generating property portfolio.

Who is the Ideal Candidate for the BRRRR Method?

The BRRRR method is not a universal fit. However, those who are willing to invest the time in learning the ropes and perhaps get guidance from experienced investors can navigate this intricate yet rewarding path successfully. The optimum person for BRRRR is an investor with access to substantial cash or private loans, an understanding of residential construction and project management, and the desire and ability to take on some risk.

The Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Steady and Reliable Passive Income
  • Consistent Growth in Equity
  • Scalable Investment Strategy

Cons:

  • Significant Time and Financial Investment in Rehab
  • Longer Timeframe to Profitability
  • Increasing Landlord Responsibilities as You Scale
  • Market Risks and Financial Variables

Parting Advice

If the BRRRR real estate investment model piques your interest, knowledge is your most valuable asset. Exhaustive research, expert consultations, and possible mentorship can offer a well-rounded understanding of this intricate yet lucrative investment approach. Reach out to us, and we can get you started on all of those tracks.

While the BRRRR method comes with its share of complexities, proper planning and prudent decision-making can make it a rewarding venture, even for those new to real estate investment.

Filed Under: Blog Posts, Buyer Tips Tagged With: BRRRR, foreclosure, investment, real estate

Catherine Emert Teaches Tony Martinez How to Save Homes with Soda Cans

By Kerry ONeal

[Bend, Oregon] – [08/01/2023] – Strategic Realty, LLC proudly announces the remarkable story of Catherine Emert, one of their esteemed real estate professionals, whose compassion and innovation recently made a life-changing difference for a struggling homeowner. In an inspiring interview with Tony Martinez, owner of the Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE) designation, Catherine shared her extraordinary experience in saving a home using an ingenious solution involving soda cans.

The heartwarming interview showcases Catherine’s unwavering commitment to her clients and her dedication to providing million-dollar service in every price range. Growing up in Oregon and serving nearly half the state, with a primary focus on the east side of the mountains, Catherine’s passion for real estate runs deep. Her motivation to become a Certified Distressed Property Expert stemmed from her family’s personal experience during the 2008 real estate crash, where they tragically lost their home. This pivotal moment ignited her determination to make a positive impact on others facing similar challenges.

During the interview, Catherine recounted the inspiring tale of a distressed homeowner who had lost hope after falling behind on mortgage payments following a devastating personal loss. Catherine’s resourcefulness came into play when she suggested an unconventional solution involving soda cans, as Oregon offers a deposit refund on beverage containers. Guiding the homeowner with a compassionate approach, she connected him with local churches and non-profit organizations and encouraged him to leverage the community’s support to overcome his financial difficulties.

Tony Martinez, impressed by Catherine’s exceptional work, remarked, “This is exactly what the CDPE stands for. We really, really want to help people stay in their homes. Every now and then, a story like this emerges, and it just gives me hope.” Catherine’s actions exemplify the core values of Strategic Realty, LLC, and the CDPE designation, demonstrating that real estate professionals have the potential to change lives and foster hope in the face of adversity.

“We’re not here to just sell people’s houses; we’re here to save them,” Catherine proudly stated. Her innovative approach and genuine care for her clients embody Strategic Realty’s vision of improving the real estate industry through technology integration and exceptional customer service.

Strategic Realty, LLC invites everyone to watch the captivating video and read the full transcript of this extraordinary interview on their website at https://movetobend.com/empowering-lives-how-strategic-realtys-catherine-emert-saved-a-home-with-soda-cans/. Witness how Catherine Emert’s efforts in saving a home through soda cans have inspired us all to make a positive difference in the lives of those we serve.

About Strategic Realty, LLC: Strategic Realty, LLC is a prominent real estate company based in Bend, Oregon, co-owned by Kerry O’Neal and Catherine Emert. With a profound commitment to innovation, integrity, experience, and teamwork, the company focuses on residential, industrial, commercial, and agricultural real estate brokerage, real estate development, and distressed property handling, among other services. Their mission is to provide superior experiences for all stakeholders in the real estate market, leveraging advanced technology and exceptional customer service to achieve their goals.

Filed Under: Press Release Tagged With: bank, foreclosure, real estate, short sale, short sale real estate

Empowering Lives: How Strategic Realty’s Catherine Emert Saved a Home with Soda Cans

By Kerry ONeal

Discover the heartwarming story of Catherine Emert, a real estate professional from Strategic Realty, whose compassionate and innovative approach transformed a distressed homeowner’s life. In this powerful interview with Tony Martinez, owner of the Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE) designation, Catherine shares how she went above and beyond to save a home using a unique solution involving soda cans. Witness the essence of Strategic Realty’s mission to improve the real estate industry through innovation and exceptional customer service. Let this remarkable story inspire us all to make a positive impact on the lives of those we serve.

TONY: Hey everyone, it’s Tony Martinez with the CDPE and I have a very special guest with me here today her name is Catherine Emert, she’s out of the Oregon area and Catherine and I met about a week and a half two weeks ago at the amazing Star Power conference and she shared a story with me a testimonial that just completely blew me away, but not to try to keep you in suspense but I would like to give her an opportunity to introduce herself and just tell us a little background on where she’s from what market she focuses on and what was her primary motivation for becoming a Certified Distressed Property Expert, So, Catherine welcome.

CATHERINE:  Thank you Tony. It was so great meeting you last …  two weeks ago now. I’m born and raised in Oregon. I grew up here in Central Oregon. I serve almost half the state of Oregon right now,  primarily the east side of the mountains. I’ve been in real estate since I was about 12 years old so it’s in my blood it’s what I do. Unfortunately my family was one that was impacted by the crash in 2008 and our family lost our home, and my mom was a real estate broker at the time, and so when I heard about CDPE actually last year at the Star Power conference, I knew I needed to take the course. So when you offered the course at a discount to Star Power members, I went ahead and signed up immediately and I’ve already actually been marketing to Notice of Defaults in our area.  I send a card to them saying “hey you’re not alone we’ve all been through this”, and I had one great gentleman call me and he’d been ignoring all the emails and phone calls and letters from other Realtors, and he said your letter just struck me and I knew I had to call you. So it was a very tragic story. He had lost his fiance in a head-on collision in one of our smaller towns a few months prior, and could not open the mail anymore, and he got behind on his payments. Most of the people that I was hearing from were 60, 70, 80, even hundreds of thousands of dollars behind, and he was $4000, and I said “we’re gonna save your house, how much money do you have in your bank account right now.” 

He said, ‘I only have thirteen hundred dollars,’ and I said, ‘Well, that’s okay… that’s almost halfway there. We’re halfway there, you’re gonna be okay.’ So, I was in the middle of a bunch of things, getting ready to show properties. ‘What’s your email address? I’m gonna send you some information, and I want you to focus on calling every single person that I give you.’  So, a lot of our smaller communities have a bunch of non-profit churches. He, come to find out, was a wounded veteran, so I got him in contact with our local churches. He worked part-time at a laundromat. I said, ‘You know, go and talk to everybody you know, see what they can do to help you.’ In Oregon, you get 10 cents a can for soda cans and beer cans. We told him, ‘Go cash them in, get as many cans as you can.’ And he did, and I think I sent him a total of 50 phone numbers of places and organizations that can help him. He called me a week later and said, ‘You saved me, you saved my house.’ So, I like to tell the story that I saved a man’s home with soda cans because not very many states give you a deposit back on your soda cans, and we just happened to get 10 cents a can back. So, he did it. He, in one week, came up with his $4,000 and ended up getting another $390 a month, every month, to help him with his utility bills in order to keep ahead, and he didn’t even know those programs were out there for him. So, I like to say, ‘We’re not here to just sell people’s houses, we’re here to save them.’ We have the potential and the knowledge that some people don’t have, and we can do that, we can provide that for them.

TONY: Wow, I’m blown away by this. I’m having the same Goosebumps as I did the evening that you told me this because I remember you saying, ‘Oh yeah, I helped the guy save his house through soda cans.’ And I go, ‘What?’ But, say that again, slowly.’

Yeah, when you told me that, it’s absolutely amazing. And this is exactly what the CDPE stands for. We really, really want to help people stay in their homes. We want to do everything humanly possible to help them stay in their homes. And every now and then, a story like this emerges, and it just gives me hope.

Yes, you know, because it’s just more of you, more agents, more to do what you’re doing right now. Engaging the public that in many cases are so overwhelmed with what’s going on, they don’t know what their rights are, they don’t know what their options are. Many of them will flee the property, which is the last thing that they should do. So, I just… You give me encouragement and you give me hope that the message of the CDPE is resonating. In the right hands. We can do a lot of good for a lot of people. And there’s going to be a lot of folks that are going to watch this and want to get a hold of you personally. I think that you are an excellent referral source in the entire Oregon area. I don’t mind plugging you because of everything that you’re doing so far. So, how can they personally reach you? Whether they’re a consumer needing some help, or it’s a real estate professional in a different area looking to send you a referral?

CATHERINE: So, the easiest way is actually just going to our website. Our website is movetobend.com. Those inquiries come straight to me. You can read all about us and what we do for our community on that website, with links to CDPE websites and all of that. So, we really like to stay involved. So, feel free to reach out to me anytime.

TONY: Fantastic! Listen, thank you, thank you, thank you for everything that you’re doing. And keep those testimonials coming, yes, because this is going to inspire others and, as a result, we’re going to help a lot of people. So, God bless you for what you’re doing, and I look forward to seeing you again soon.

CATHERINE: Yes, I look forward to it too. Thank you, Tony.

TONY: My pleasure.

Filed Under: Blog Posts Tagged With: foreclosure, real estate, short sale, Strategic Realty videos

Strategic Realty Enables Expansion Of The Sea Crab House In Boise

By Kerry ONeal

BOISE, Idaho – June 22, 2023 – Strategic Realty, a leading real estate firm specializing in exceptional brokerage services, is proud to announce its instrumental role in securing a location for SEA Crab House in the vibrant downtown area of Boise.

Located on the second floor of the Zions Bank building at 800 W. Main St., the new SEA Crab House is all set for a soft opening on July 8. This premier seafood restaurant, known for its unique Cajun-style seafood boils and Southeast Asian (SEA) sauces, has brought a novel concept of ‘fun dining’ to the area.

Strategic Realty partnered with the respected Arthur Berry and the Gardner Group, both prominent entities in the Boise real estate market, to make this venture possible.

“We’re thrilled to have been a part of SEA Crab House’s expansion into Boise,” said Kerry O’Neal, Principal Broker of Strategic Realty. “We believe in their unique dining concept and are excited to see it enrich our city’s culinary landscape.”

SEA Crab House, originally founded by Pattaraporn Lorwatcharasophon in 2018, adds a unique dining experience to the city, with a menu that includes signature and build-your-own seafood boils, as well as lobster and crab rolls, clam chowder, fish and chips, tacos, salads, and more.

The grand opening of SEA Crab House is slated for Thursday, July 13, promising a culinary delight for all seafood lovers in Boise. With Strategic Realty’s assistance, SEA Crab House looks forward to bringing a communal, delicious, and hands-on dining experience to its patrons.

About Strategic Realty: Strategic Realty is a premier real estate firm dedicated to providing exceptional service and innovative solutions. With its expert understanding of local market dynamics and global industry insight, Strategic Realty continually exceeds client expectations and contributes to the community it serves.

Filed Under: Press Release Tagged With: press release, real estate

Strategic Realty Facilitates Debut of ‘Exclusive Imports’ – A Premier Auto Repair Center for Imports in La Pine, Oregon

By Kerry ONeal

LA PINE, OR – June 5, 2023 – Strategic Realty, a full-service real estate brokerage, announces its instrumental role in the inception of ‘Exclusive Imports’. This innovative start-up auto repair shop specializes in servicing imported vehicles, elevating the local automotive repair industry in La Pine, Oregon.

Exclusive Imports, situated at 16685 Assembly Way, Suite 104, La Pine, Oregon 97739, is designed to meet the specialized needs of imported vehicle owners. Equipped with cutting-edge diagnostic tools and managed by a team of experienced technicians, this facility guarantees top-tier service precision and customer satisfaction.

Catherine Emert of Strategic Realty located and secured the off-market property through her connections with the local community. The shop is leased from Lesueur Family Properties, represented by Rex Lesueur. This not only demonstrates Strategic Realty’s versatility in real estate brokerage but also underscores their commitment to finding innovative solutions for their clients. Nestled amidst the scenic landscapes of La Pine, a community known for its support of local businesses, the location serves as an ideal setting for this exclusive auto repair venture.

Catherine Emert, co-owner of Strategic Realty, expressed her delight about the project, stating, “Helping to locate ‘Exclusive Imports’ has been an exciting journey. We eagerly anticipate the positive impact this startup will have on auto repair services in the La Pine community.”

‘Exclusive Imports’ offers a comprehensive range of services including routine maintenance, engine diagnostics, brake repair, suspension work, electrical system troubleshooting, and more. The facility is committed to fostering long-term relationships with clients through transparent communication, fair pricing, and exceptional customer service.

For more information about Exclusive Imports and its services, visit https://exclusiveimportsautorepair.com, contact the facility directly at 458-836-5393 or via email at eric@exclusiveimportsautorepair.com. You can also follow Exclusive Imports on Facebook for the latest updates and exclusive promotions.

About Strategic Realty: Strategic Realty is a well-regarded firm in the real estate brokerage industry, offering a wide spectrum of services across residential and commercial real estate. With a dedication to delivering outstanding service and value, Strategic Realty contributes significantly to the growth and success of businesses and homeowners by identifying their perfect locations.

Filed Under: Press Release Tagged With: commercial real estate, press release, real estate

Master the Art of Home Staging to Sell Your Property Fast – Nine Quick Tips

By Kerry ONeal

An inviting and expertly staged living room in Central Oregon, showcasing the perfect blend of comfort, style, and space optimization to entice potential buyers.

Selling a home can be a daunting task, particularly when it comes to attracting potential buyers and securing a quick sale. One of the most effective ways to showcase your property’s best features and make it more appealing is through home staging. Below is a quick guide on how to stage your home for a fast sale, including tips on decluttering, depersonalizing, creating curb appeal, and choosing the right décor.

  1. Declutter Your Home

    The first step in staging your home is to remove any clutter and unnecessary items. A cluttered space not only makes rooms look smaller but also distracts buyers from seeing the true potential of your property. Follow these tips to declutter your home effectively:
    • Start by sorting through your belongings and decide what to keep, donate, or discard.
    • Organize your possessions in storage containers and label them accordingly for easy access later on.
    • Clear countertops, shelves, and surfaces of any clutter, leaving only essential items and a few decorative pieces.
    • Remove excess furniture to create a more open and spacious feel in each room.
    • Tidy up closets and storage areas, as buyers will likely inspect them.
  1. Depersonalize Your Space

    Potential buyers need to envision themselves living in your home. To make it easier for them, depersonalize your space by removing personal items and decorations. This includes:
    • Taking down family photos, diplomas, and certificates from walls and surfaces.
    • Removing any religious or political items that may deter some buyers.
    • Storing away any collections or hobby-related items that may not appeal to everyone.
    • Choosing neutral colors for walls, carpets, and curtains to create a blank canvas for buyers to imagine their own style.
  1. Create Curb Appeal

    First impressions are crucial when selling a home, so make sure your property has a strong curb appeal. Here’s how to create an attractive exterior:
    • Power wash your home’s exterior, walkways, and driveway to remove dirt and grime.
    • Freshen up the paint on your front door, trim, and shutters, if necessary.
    • Maintain a well-manicured lawn by mowing, trimming hedges, and removing weeds.
    • Add colorful plants and flowers in the front yard or along the walkway.
    • Ensure your house number is visible and in good condition.
    • Replace or repair any broken or outdated exterior lighting fixtures.
  1. Maximize Natural Light

    A bright and well-lit home feels more inviting and spacious to potential buyers. Maximize natural light in your home by:
    • Cleaning windows inside and out to let more light in.
    • Opening curtains and blinds during showings.
    • Using light-colored window treatments to reflect light and brighten the room.
    • Placing mirrors strategically to reflect natural light and make rooms appear larger.
  1. Arrange Furniture for Easy Flow

    The way you arrange your furniture can significantly impact how spacious and inviting your home feels. To create a sense of flow and openness:
    • Position furniture away from walls to create a more intimate and conversational setting.
    • Avoid blocking natural pathways and ensure there is enough space to move around comfortably.
    • Use appropriately-sized furniture for each room, avoiding oversized pieces that can make spaces feel cramped.
    • Create focal points in each room, such as a fireplace, a beautiful view, or a piece of artwork.
  1. Neutralize and Update Decor

    Modern and neutral décor can make your home more appealing to a broader range of buyers. Here are some tips to achieve a fresh, updated look:
    • Paint walls in neutral shades like beige, gray, or off-white.
    • Replace outdated or worn-out light fixtures with modern, energy-efficient options.
    • Update cabinet hardware, doorknobs, and faucets for an instant facelift.
    • Remove dated wallpaper or textured walls and opt for a smooth, neutral finish.
    • Choose simple and timeless artwork and decorative pieces that complement the overall aesthetic of your home.
  1. Highlight Your Home’s Best Features

    Every property has unique features that can attract potential buyers. Make sure to accentuate these selling points during the staging process:
    • If your home has a fireplace, clean it thoroughly and add a beautiful mantel display.
    • Showcase built-in bookshelves or cabinetry by decluttering and arranging a few carefully selected items.
    • If your property has a stunning view, ensure windows are clean and clear of obstructions.
    • Highlight outdoor spaces like patios, decks, and balconies with comfortable seating and attractive plants.
    • Showcase built-in bookshelves or cabinetry by decluttering and arranging a few carefully selected items.
    • If your property has a stunning view, ensure windows are clean and clear of obstructions.
    • Highlight outdoor spaces like patios, decks, and balconies with comfortable seating and attractive plants.
  1. Deep Clean and Make Necessary Repairs

    A clean and well-maintained home is more appealing to buyers. Make sure your property is in its best condition by deep cleaning and making necessary repairs:
    • Hire a professional cleaning service to thoroughly clean your home, including carpets, grout, and vents.
    • Fix any visible damage, such as chipped paint, cracked tiles, or broken fixtures.
    • Check for and address any plumbing, electrical, or structural issues.
    • Eliminate any unpleasant odors, especially from pets or smoking, by using air purifiers, deodorizers, or baking soda.
  1. Set the Stage for Showings

    When it’s time for potential buyers to view your home, make sure everything is picture-perfect and inviting:
    • Make the beds with clean, crisp linens and add decorative pillows or throws.
    • Set the dining table with attractive tableware and a centerpiece.
    • Place fresh flowers or potted plants throughout your home.
    • Use pleasant and subtle scents like lavender or vanilla to create a welcoming atmosphere.
    • Ensure the temperature is comfortable for visitors, adjusting heating or air conditioning as needed.

Staging your home is a critical step in the selling process. It helps make your property more attractive to potential buyers and increases the chances of a quick sale. If you have any questions or need help deciding how to best showcase your home, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

Filed Under: Blog Posts Tagged With: real estate, Selling, Staging

  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • Next Page »

The Latest

Why You Should Use Strategic Realty’s Property Search Over Zillow or Redfin

All the Listings, None of the Hassle If you're on the … [Read More...]

Why Hiring a Licensed Drone Operator is Crucial When Selling Your Property

IntroductionDeciding to sell your property is no small … [Read More...]

A Guide to Building Wealth with the BRRRR Method in Real Estate Investment

If you're keen on diving into the world of residential real … [Read More...]

Our Fans

Reliable, thorough, easy to work with, honest and responsive. Kerry is the best Real Estate professional we have ever met. - The Nelsons

Popular Communities

  • Northwest Crossing Homes
  • Tetherow Lots and Homes
  • Sunriver Resort Homes
  • Pronghorn Lots and Homes
  • Caldera Springs Lots and Homes
  • Broken Top Homes for Sale
  • Awbrey Butte Homes
  • Awbrey Glen Homes
  • Brasada Ranch Homes
  • Crosswater Homes
  • Eagle Crest Homes for Sale
  • Eagle Crest Resort
  • Ranch at the Canyons Homes
  • The Highlands Homes and Lots
  • Vandevert Ranch Homes

Office Location

Our full-service brokerage is strategically positioned in downtown Bend, Oregon, close to the city's heart. We invite you to visit us and allow us to demystify the complexities involved in the process of buying and selling.

325 NW Vermont St., #107 Bend, OR 97703

Follow Us

  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • LinkedIn
  • YouTube

Copyright © 2023

Strategic Realty, LLC – (541) 595-8444

A full-service real estate brokerage licensed in the State of Oregon.

Privacy & Cookies: This site uses cookies. By continuing to use this website, you agree to their use.
To find out more, including how to control cookies, see here: Cookie Policy