Next Level 312: How to use Creative Financing to Succeed in Any Part of the Real Estate Cycle with Chris Prefontaine

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The real estate market is constantly changing, and successful investors understand that the ability to adapt is one of the most valuable skills they can develop. In this episode of the Next Level Income Podcast, I sit down with Chris Prefontaine, Chairman and Founder of Smart Real Estate Coach®, to discuss how creative financing strategies can help investors build wealth and find opportunities regardless of where the market cycle stands.

Chris Prefontaine is a 4x best-selling author, former Forbes Business Council Member, and a 3-time Inc5000 Honoree for Fastest Growing Company. Through his work at Smart Real Estate Coach®, Chris has helped thousands of aspiring investors learn how to approach real estate differently by focusing on creative strategies rather than traditional financing methods.

In this episode, Chris shares the lessons he has learned from decades of experience navigating different economic environments, including the challenges of the 2008 real estate crash, global uncertainty, and changing market conditions. Rather than allowing market shifts to create limitations, Chris explains how investors can use creativity and strategic thinking to uncover opportunities in every phase of the real estate cycle.

One of the key topics discussed is the power of creative financing. Traditional real estate investing often depends on banks, large down payments, and strict lending requirements. However, Chris explains how investors can structure deals in ways that create win-win opportunities for buyers, sellers, and investors. By understanding seller financing, alternative deal structures, and innovative approaches to acquisitions, investors can expand their ability to participate in the market.

Chris also highlights the importance of developing the right mindset when building a real estate business. Success in real estate is not only about finding the right property, but also about understanding people, solving problems, and creating value. His approach focuses on becoming a better negotiator, building strong relationships, and developing the skills needed to operate in uncertain environments.

Throughout his career, Chris has built the Wicked Smart® Community, which operates across North America and has supported hundreds of successful real estate transactions. His mission is centered around helping dedicated individuals become smarter, more confident real estate investors who can navigate market changes with clarity.

Beyond business success, Chris shares valuable lessons from his personal journey, including overcoming significant life challenges and rebuilding his business through difficult times. His experiences have shaped his philosophy that resilience, adaptability, and continuous learning are essential qualities for long-term success.

Chris is also the host of the Smart Real Estate Coach Podcast, which ranks among the top 0.5% of podcasts globally, where he continues to educate entrepreneurs and investors on building sustainable real estate businesses.

Tune in to this episode of the Next Level Income Podcast to learn how creative financing can open new doors, why traditional approaches may limit investors, and how you can position yourself for success in any real estate market cycle.

Resources & Links

🌐 http://smartrealestatecoach.com/
Giveaway: https://3paydaysbooks.com/nextlevel

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I hope you found this episode valuable. Check out https://chris-larsen.mykajabi.com/coachingprogram to learn more about our coaching program and read some testimonials from our previous students. You can also book a call with us to learn more and find out if this program is good fit for you.

I have one more thing to give you. Visit our website to get a free copy of my book, audiobook, and much more. I’ll send you a copy of my book and cover all the shipping costs as a thank you for listening to the show. Also, please like, share, and take 90 seconds to give us a rating on Apple Podcasts.

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Christopher Larsen is the founder and Managing Partner of Next-Level Income. Since “retiring” after 18 years in the medical device industry he dedicates his time to helping others become financially independent through education and investment opportunities. Chris has been investing in and managing real estate for over 20 years.

While completing his degree in Biomechanical Engineering and M.B.A. in Finance at Virginia Tech, he bought his first single-family rental at age 21. Chris expanded into development, private-lending, buying distressed debt as well as commercial office, and ultimately syndicating multifamily properties. He began syndicating deals in 2016 and has been actively involved in over $500M of real estate acquisitions.

In addition to real estate, Chris has invested in equities, oil & gas, and small business lending, as well as being active in Venture South, one of the nation’s Top 10 Angel Investing groups. Chris lives with his wife and two boys (and Viszla, Lucy!) in Asheville, NC where he loves spending time with them in the outdoors and enjoying the food and culture that the region has to offer.

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