Ep. 17 | An Electrical Engineer’s Journey through Real Estate with Jade Laye

Jade discusses how his background in electrical engineering helped him with acquiring and managing properties. He also recounts how his professional journey as an engineer led him to become a landlord and buy houses in Arkansas. He talks about the challenges of the current market, which forced him to move to Houston in 2012. After 8 years in Houston, Jay decided it was time to move back home and focus on buying properties in Arkansas. Jade became a multifamily investor after working as an attorney, and he now advises investors on apartment investments. 

Jade Laye is an Investor and Attorney who assists investors in obtaining above-market returns through apartment investments. With 10 years of experience in the acquisition, rehab, and operation of 2500+ single and multi-family units in Texas, Arkansas, Memphis TN & Atlanta GA, Jade has acquired $230M+ in real estate assets under control and/or ownership. Jade also has 15+ years of legal/management experience in major law firms.

[00:01 - 06:53] Opening Segment

• Introducing Jade to the show
  • Engineer/attorney
• Assisting investors in obtaining above-market returns through apartment investments 
• Jay’s background as a real estate investor

[16:54 - 33:08] The Best Market Is Always Your Backyard

• It’s always better to start where you’re most comfortable
• Why multifamily is a better investment
• The ability to force appreciation in apartments in a way that isn’t possible with houses

[33:09 - 49:38] Bringing Equity to Multi-Family Portfolio

• Modern-day syndication is more common with larger general partnership teams, where each partner brings in equity
• One of the things that have evolved in modern-day syndication is the structure of the team, with each partner taking on specific responsibilities
• Character and capability are important factors when selecting a syndicate partner
• Sponsors should take a balanced approach to evaluate deals
• Sponsors should also be aware of the risks associated with entering new markets

[49:39 - 57:13] Closing Segment

• Jade’s tips for a successful sponsorship
  • It is important to have a long-term perspective when vetting potential sponsors
  • It is important to partner with people who have experience in the real estate industry
• See the links below to connect with Jade

Quotes:

“Everybody has to have specific roles outlined. Everybody has got to be a team player.” - Jade Laye

"I invest with people I can trust." - Jade Laye

Connect with Jade on LinkedIn, Facebook, or email him at jade.laye@layeinvestments.com.

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