Financial Freedom Fighters

EP #34 - Major Money Milestones in Your 20s, 30s & 40s

Sun, 08 Jun 2025 15:00:00 -0700

In this episode, we explore the intentional steps needed to achieve financial freedom by your forties, focusing on key milestones in your twenties, thirties, and forties. Learn why setting financial goals is crucial, how to build a strong financial foundation, and the importance of increasing income, investing wisely, and creating passive income streams. We also discuss setting net worth targets for each decade and highlight the significance of lifestyle design in your forties. Tune in to get practical advice and motivational insights to take control of your financial future.

FREE Real Estate Investing Tools & Resources:
https://www.cashflowsaga.com/links

Book a Free Strategy Call:
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Connect with Jacob:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cashflowsaga/
Website: https://www.cashflowsaga.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@cashflowsaga
Twitter: https://twitter.com/cashflowsaga

Connect with Mike:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realtormichaelmagno/
Website: https://themagnogroup.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@realtormichaelmagno

EP #33 - Listen to This If You're Tired of Being Broke (7 Money Mistakes)

Sun, 18 May 2025 09:00:00 -0700

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In this episode, we dive into the seven critical money mistakes that are preventing you from achieving financial freedom. From living paycheck to paycheck to ignoring investing, we break down common financial pitfalls and offer actionable tips to help you get ahead. Learn why having an emergency fund, a financial plan, and multiple income sources are essential for financial security. Plus, discover the importance of understanding your spending habits and having a clear goal. Tune in for practical advice on how to correct these mistakes and start your journey toward financial independence.

EP #32 - You Don’t Need an LLC to Buy Rental Properties (Here’s Why)

Sun, 30 Mar 2025 13:00:00 -0700

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In this episode of the Financial Freedom Fighters Podcast, hosts Jacob Sandoval and Michael Magno dive into the common question: 'Do you need an LLC to invest in rental properties?' They explore the pros and cons of setting up an LLC, discussing liability protection, financing complications, and the misconceptions about additional tax benefits. Jacob and Michael share their personal experiences and emphasize the importance of getting started in real estate investing without getting bogged down by unnecessary complexities. Tune in to find out their perspectives and practical advice for rookie investors.

EP #31 - The American Dream is Dead (Here’s What to Do Instead)

Sat, 15 Mar 2025 11:00:00 -0700

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In this episode of the Financial Freedom Fighters Podcast, hosts Jacob Sandoval and Michael Magno debunk the outdated concept of the American Dream. They argue that traditional paths like working a corporate job, saving in a 401k, and hoping for a comfortable retirement no longer work in the current economic climate. Instead, they advocate for achieving financial freedom through alternative means such as real estate investing, starting side businesses, and building diversified portfolios. The hosts emphasize the importance of understanding your expenses, the 4 percent rule, and the power of passive income. They also provide actionable steps and recommended readings to help you get started on your journey to financial independence.

EP #30 - 2025 Real Estate Predictions: What Every Investor Should Know

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 21:00:00 -0800

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In this episode of the Financial Freedom Fighters podcast, hosts Jacob Sandoval and Mike reflect on the 2024 real estate market and share predictions for 2025. They discuss high mortgage rates, modest home price increases, and the potential impact of the upcoming Trump administration. The episode emphasizes the importance of staying active as an investor and provides insights into economic indicators like the 10-year Treasury yield and the rental market, urging listeners to take informed action in 2025.

EP #29 - One Rental Property Changed His Life – From Broke to 500+ Units

Thu, 19 Dec 2024 09:00:00 -0800

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Join us as we dive into the inspiring journey of Jay Maranan, a seasoned real estate investor who has mastered house hacking, Airbnb, out-of-state investing, and large-scale syndications. Jay shares his personal story, highlighting the importance of mindset, the power of taking action despite fear, and the value of building generational wealth. Don't miss this insightful episode filled with aha moments and actionable advice!

Connect with Jay:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jay.invests/

EP #28 - Why I Walked Away From a $250K Job—The 3 Fears I Had to Overcome

Mon, 25 Nov 2024 21:00:00 -0800

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In this episode, I share my journey of leaving a high-paying yet unfulfilling job, the fears I faced, and how I prepared financially to take the leap. I discuss practical advice for those considering quitting their job, including the importance of financial security and following one's passion. Join me as I reflect on my experiences and the steps I took to find greater fulfillment and success in real estate investing and content creation.

EP #27 - How To Analyze a Rental Property (Cleveland Duplex Example)

Fri, 01 Nov 2024 15:00:00 -0700

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Join Jacob Sandoval and expert realtor Michael Magno as they dive deep into the intricacies of analyzing rental properties, using a real Cleveland property as their case study. Learn how to filter properties, assess their pros and cons, and calculate potential returns using a rental property calculator. This episode provides tactical tips for first-time investors to set their expectations, budget appropriately, and make informed decisions for long-term success.

EP #26 - House Flipping 101: How This Investor Lost Money (Key Lessons)

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 07:00:00 -0700

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Join Jacob Sandoval and Michael Magno in this episode as they dive into the inspiring journey of Lorenzo Mercado, a pediatric RN turned real estate investor. Lorenzo shares his evolution from struggling financially, living paycheck to paycheck, to making significant strides in the real estate space. Despite encountering unexpected challenges with his first flip, Lorenzo's story highlights the importance of perseverance, strategic action, and learning from both successes and setbacks. His future ambitions to master direct-to-seller strategies and provide genuine solutions for homeowners are testament to his passion and commitment to real estate.

Connect with Lorenzo:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lorenzo.mercado_/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thelo-down
Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/u9aeen4u
Apple: https://tinyurl.com/yjv3v8x7

EP #25 - The Truth About Paying Your Mortgage Off Early

Tue, 10 Sep 2024 19:00:00 -0700

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In this episode, hosts Jacob Sandoval and Michael Magno discuss the nuances of paying off your mortgage early. They explore the pros and cons based on interest rates, investment journey stages, and personal financial goals. Highlighting real-life scenarios and strategies, they emphasize the importance of having a clear vision and making informed decisions for achieving financial freedom.

EP #24 - How to Buy Your First Rental Property: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

Tue, 20 Aug 2024 21:00:00 -0700

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In this episode of the Financial Freedom Fighters Podcast, Jacob guides you through the 10 essential steps to buy your first rental property. From determining your goals and budget to finding an investor-friendly agent and getting your property rented out, this comprehensive guide is packed with practical advice and tools to help you start your real estate investing journey. Join Jacob to take the first steps towards achieving financial freedom through real estate.

EP #23 - Why Turnkey Rental Properties are a Scam

Sun, 21 Jul 2024 10:00:00 -0700

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In this episode of the Financial Freedom Fighters Podcast, hosts Jacob Sandoval and Michael Magno dive deep into the concept of turnkey rental companies. They discuss the potential pitfalls and hidden challenges of these "turnkey" investments, especially for new real estate investors. Jacob and Michael emphasize the importance of doing your own due diligence, working with trustworthy, investor-friendly agents, and understanding how to effectively underwrite deals to avoid costly mistakes.

EP #22 - Accountant Explains: Buying Your First Apartment Building

Sun, 30 Jun 2024 18:00:00 -0700

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In this episode of the Financial Freedom Fighters Podcast, host Jacob Sandoval and co-host Michael Magno interview Ian Cruz, a successful real estate investor from the Bay Area. Ian shares his journey from working as a CPA to becoming an expert in the Cincinnati real estate market. The discussion covers Ian's investment journey, including his first out-of-state multi-family investment and transitioning into larger commercial real estate deals, highlighting the importance of strong local partnerships and effective networking.

Connect with Ian Cruz:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cincycashflow/
Website: https://www.elev8capital.co/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cbcruz/

EP #21 - How Much Do You Need to Retire? (Why the 4% Rule is Wrong)

Sat, 08 Jun 2024 09:00:00 -0700

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In this episode, Jacob breaks down the path to financial freedom and challenges the traditional 4% rule that many rely on for retirement planning. Discover why aiming for an unrealistic retirement number can keep you trapped and how understanding your living expenses is key to setting a realistic financial freedom goal. Jacob explains how the 4% rule works and why it might not be sufficient, especially in today’s economic climate. He introduces the concept of using real estate investments to generate consistent cash flow, offering a more achievable and faster route to financial independence. Join Jacob as he shares insights, personal stories, and practical tips to help you break free from the corporate grind and start your journey to true financial freedom.

EP #20 - Property Management 101: What New Investors Need to Know

Sun, 19 May 2024 17:00:00 -0700

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In this episode of the Financial Freedom Fighters podcast, hosts Jacob Sandoval and Mike Magno explore the essentials of property management for real estate investors. They discuss the importance of choosing the right property manager and outline key questions to ask during the selection process. The conversation also touches on the significance of asset management and maintaining strong tenant retention for long-term success. Jacob and Mike share practical tips and insights to help investors effectively manage their rental properties and optimize their investment strategies.

EP #19 - Rental Properties vs. Stocks: The Ultimate Investment Breakdown

Mon, 06 May 2024 22:00:00 -0700

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In this insightful video, Jacob delves into the age-old debate between investing in rental properties versus stocks. Through a comprehensive seven-round comparison, Jacob breaks down key factors such as appreciation, cash flow, level of effort, volatility, leverage, liquidity, and tax benefits. Even though there is a "winner", Jacob emphasizes the importance of aligning investment strategies with personal goals and offers a balanced perspective, revealing his own portfolio strategy. Don't miss out on valuable insights into building wealth and achieving financial freedom!

EP #18 - Software Engineer Talks About "Nightmare" 1st Rental Property

Sun, 21 Apr 2024 16:00:00 -0700

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In this episode, Jacob interviews Liam Delumpa, a Software Engineer turned real estate investor in the San Francisco Bay Area. Liam reflects on his rollercoaster journey in real estate, starting with the nightmare of his first rental property. Through perseverance and resilience, Liam overcame the initial hurdles, honing his skills and knowledge as an investor. His eventual shift to commercial real estate highlights the importance of strategic evolution in response to market conditions, emphasizing the need for continuous learning and adaptation for success in real estate.

Connect with Liam:
Email: liam@delumparealty.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/illwillyd/

EP #17 - Breaking Down My First Airbnb: Lessons, Risks, and Numbers

Sun, 31 Mar 2024 19:00:00 -0700

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In this episode, Jacob shares the details of his first Airbnb investment —a lakefront property in Michigan. Despite the widespread pessimism of Airbnbs in the current environment and the complexities of this specific deal, Jacob moves forward, excited about the potential of the property. He reveals the property's purchase price, financing, revenue projections, and business plan. If you've been curious about the world of Airbnbs this is a must listen!

EP #16 - Accountant Explains: Tax Advantages of Real Estate Investing

Sat, 16 Mar 2024 21:00:00 -0700

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In this episode, Jacob Sandoval and Mike Magno are joined by Tony, also known as the "CPA Dude," to explore advanced tax strategies and financial planning tactics. They dive into the intricacies of the Short-Term Rental (STR) tax loophole, real estate professional status, and the benefits of 1031 exchanges. Tony offers valuable insights on optimizing tax savings and clarifies common misconceptions about LLC ownership in the context of tax planning. Throughout the discussion, listeners gain practical advice on leveraging tax laws to their advantage and maximizing financial outcomes.

Connect with Tony!
https://beacons.ai/thecpadude

EP #15 - How Rental Properties Make You Rich (And Help You Retire Early)

Fri, 01 Mar 2024 07:00:00 -0800

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This episode dives deep into the multifaceted world of real estate investing, breaking down the four essential components—cashflow, appreciation, loan pay down, and tax benefits. Jacob uses relatable metaphors and practical examples to demystify the complexities of real estate, empowering listeners to harness its wealth-building potential. Whether you're a beginner or seasoned investor, this episode provides actionable insights to navigate the journey towards financial freedom with confidence.

Check out the episode on YouTube:
http://tinyurl.com/5crb3uv9

EP #14 - 8 Common Mistakes New Real Estate Investors Make (and How to Avoid Them)

Fri, 16 Feb 2024 11:00:00 -0800

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In this episode of the Financial Freedom Fighters podcast, hosts Mike Magno and Jacob Sandoval delve into a range of crucial topics for aspiring real estate investors. From the significance of setting clear investment criteria and sticking to a strategy to the pitfalls of thinking too small, they offer valuable insights drawn from their own experiences. Through candid discussions about mistakes, successes, and the importance of continuous learning and adaptation, listeners are equipped with practical advice and inspiration to navigate the dynamic world of real estate investing and pursue their financial goals with confidence.

EP # 13 - Is Real Estate Still a Good Investment? 5 Reasons to Start Now

Wed, 07 Feb 2024 20:00:00 -0800

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In this solo episode, Jacob outlines five key reasons why real estate investment remains a lucrative avenue for building long-term wealth and achieving financial freedom, covering aspects such as the housing shortage, passive income potential, leverage advantages, diversification benefits, and its historical track record of creating millionaires. With a blend of practical insights and motivational encouragement, the episode aims to inspire beginners to explore real estate investing as a path towards financial independence.

Check out the episode on YouTube:
http://tinyurl.com/5crb3uv9

EP #12 - How to Finance Your First Rental Property: A Beginner’s Guide

Tue, 23 Jan 2024 05:00:00 -0800

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In this insightful episode, Jacob and Mike are joined by Steve, a seasoned mortgage professional, to unravel the complexities of financing real estate investments. The trio delves into the intricacies of investment property loans, emphasizing the importance of building a solid team and understanding the diverse loan options available. Steve shares valuable insights on debt-service coverage ratio (DSCR) loans, shedding light on eligibility criteria and common scenarios where they prove beneficial. The conversation also touches on interest rates, loan-to-value (LTV) ratios, and the critical role of appraisals in real estate transactions. The episode culminates in practical advice for new investors entering the real estate market, emphasizing the need for due diligence, team-building, and learning from mistakes. For those navigating the real estate financing landscape, this episode provides a comprehensive guide and actionable tips for success.

Connect with Steve:
https://stevedoesloans.com/

EP #11 - These Real Estate Myths are Holding You Back

Mon, 08 Jan 2024 07:00:00 -0800

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Jacob and Mike dive into debunking common real estate myths, encouraging listeners to break free from limiting beliefs. They challenge notions like needing extensive capital or expertise, emphasizing the value of building a team and efficient time management. Closing with motivational messages, the hosts inspire listeners to embrace mistakes, prioritize financial freedom, and leverage their unique qualities for success in real estate investing. This episode is a concise guide to dispelling myths and kickstarting a journey toward financial freedom.

EP #10 - House Hacking Just Got a Lot Easier

Fri, 22 Dec 2023 20:00:00 -0800

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In this episode, Jacob and Mike delve into the strategy of house hacking, emphasizing its potential with the 5 percent down payment option from Fannie Mae. They discuss the Federal Reserve's potential interest rate cuts and its impact on the housing market. The hosts also address the role of private equity in single-family homes, debunking misleading statistics. They advocate for incentivizing builders to create more affordable housing instead of restricting private equity. Throughout, Jacob and Mike stress the power of real estate for achieving financial goals.

EP #9 - Flipping Houses is Not Investing but You Can Get Stupid Returns

Tue, 05 Dec 2023 07:00:00 -0800

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In this insightful episode of the Financial Freedom Fighters podcast, real estate investor Mike Magno shares key lessons from recent house-flipping endeavors. Covering a range of topics, Mike discusses the importance of due diligence, strategic negotiations, relationship building, sticking to financial goals, and creative problem-solving in the real estate investment process. The episode also underscores the significance of effective communication with contractors, addressing challenges, and maintaining transparency throughout a project. Mike's experiences offer valuable insights for both new and seasoned real estate investors, providing a comprehensive perspective on navigating the dynamic world of house flipping.

EP #8 - Overcoming Limiting Beliefs and Doing $1M a Year on Airbnb

Sun, 19 Nov 2023 19:00:00 -0800

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In this dynamic podcast episode, Jacob, Mike, and guest Matt, a seasoned real estate investor and coach, embark on a comprehensive exploration of achieving financial freedom through real estate. Matt shares his inspiring journey from a challenging background to corporate success and ultimately to financial independence. The trio delves into the mindset shifts crucial for success, the intricacies of real estate investing—particularly in short-term rentals like Airbnb—and the significance of coaching in accelerating one's journey to financial freedom.

The conversation transitions to Matt's initiatives in aiding others on their real estate paths, including a potential partnership program and the transformative power of coaching. Matt's emphasis on data-driven strategies, such as meticulous deal analysis, adds a practical layer to the discussion. The episode concludes with a motivational call to break free from traditional job constraints, find joy in pursuits that align with one's passions, and unlock exponential wealth through real estate endeavors. Matt's insights and the hosts' engaging dialogue make this episode a valuable resource for those seeking actionable steps and inspiration on the path to financial independence through real estate.

Connect with Matt:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mybrokermatt/
Website: https://stan.store/mybrokermatt

EP #7 - How to Buy 140 Houses and Not Be Like Blockbuster

Thu, 02 Nov 2023 23:00:00 -0700

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The podcast features Jim Manning, discussing his extensive real estate journey and its pivotal role in creating passive income. Throughout, the conversation emphasizes real estate as a bedrock for financial stability, distinct from conventional investments like the stock market. They highlight the benefits of establishing passive income streams through real estate investments and offer invaluable guidance to aspiring investors. The hosts provide actionable advice, underscoring the significance of financial freedom achieved via real estate-based passive income. Overall, the episode acts as a comprehensive resource, offering insights and practical tips for individuals aiming to leverage real estate for their financial well-being.

Connect with Jim Manning:
https://passivewealthshow.com/

EP #6 - Real Estate vs. Stocks (Part 2)

Sat, 21 Oct 2023 16:00:00 -0700

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In Episode 6 of the Financial Freedom Fighters podcast, Jacob and Mike delve deeper into the ongoing debate between real estate and stock market investments. Building on the insights shared in the previous episode (Episode 5), they reiterate the importance of personal financial goals and risk tolerance when making investment decisions.

EP #5 - Real Estate vs. Stocks (Part 1)

Sat, 21 Oct 2023 16:00:00 -0700

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In Episode 5 of the "Financial Freedom Fighters Podcast," Jacob and Mike debate the merits of stocks versus real estate, providing valuable insights for budding investors. They compare both options in terms of appreciation, cash flow, and the level of effort required. Stocks win on appreciation, but real estate takes the lead in cash flow, highlighting its potential for generating steady income. However, stocks are praised for their ease of entry and low level of effort, making them an accessible choice for many. This episode offers a balanced perspective for listeners as they determine the right investment strategy for them on their journey to financial freedom.

EP #4 - Current State of the Housing Market

Sun, 01 Oct 2023 10:00:00 -0700

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In this episode titled "The Current State of the Housing Market," Jacob and Mike provide a comprehensive analysis of the real estate landscape. They delve into surging demand's impact on affordability and stress the need for a long-term investment perspective, highlighting the significance of location in real estate success. Turning their attention to interest rates, they offer practical advice for thriving in a high-interest-rate environment, debunking misconceptions about a housing market crash. They discuss the ongoing inventory shortage and its effects on prices, and they provide sustainable rent growth projections and tenant attraction strategies. The episode concludes with a compelling call to action for investors to remain active and make informed decisions in the dynamic world of real estate investment.

EP #3 - How To Buy Your First Rental Property (Part 2)

Sat, 16 Sep 2023 09:00:00 -0700

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In this podcast episode, Jacob and Mike outline nine essential steps for those interested in real estate investing. They emphasize the significance of the decision to invest and stress the need for clear investment criteria. Building a reliable team, securing financing, and identifying suitable properties are discussed, followed by insights into deal analysis and due diligence, focusing on significant inspection points. They highlight the role of property managers and describe the straightforward closing process. Throughout, the hosts share their experiences and encourage aspiring investors to connect with them on social media for further guidance, underlining that the first deal, while challenging, is a vital step toward a successful real estate portfolio.

EP #2 - How To Buy Your First Rental Property (Part 1)

Fri, 15 Sep 2023 17:00:00 -0700

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Discover the intricacies of real estate investment with hosts Jacob Sandoval and Mike Magno in this informative episode. They break down the key steps to success, from defining your investment goals and selecting the right market to working with an investor-friendly agent and analyzing deals effectively. Whether you're a seasoned investor or new to the game, their insights will guide you toward making informed decisions and achieving your financial goals in the world of real estate investment.

EP #1 - Unlocking Financial Freedom Through Real Estate

Thu, 31 Aug 2023 07:00:00 -0700

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In this episode, hosts Jacob and Mike delve into their personal journeys, sharing stories and insights that bridge their fear of post-2010 real estate with their current pursuit of financial freedom. They discuss missed opportunities, the compounding nature of time, and the belief that achieving financial freedom can positively impact the world. Through relatable anecdotes, they emphasize the importance of motivation, education, and relatability for aspiring real estate investors. The hosts express their commitment to offering a resource for everyday investors, bringing guests who are actively pursuing their goals and adding a unique perspective to the realm of financial freedom. While their conversation touches on topics like the Cleveland market, their main focus is on connecting with listeners and offering them inspiration, education, and laughter as they navigate the real estate landscape.