Raising the Flipping Bar with Derek Marlin
Raising The Flipping Bar is the masterclass for real estate investors of all levels looking to make more money with property redevelopment (aka Fix & Flips), and real estate investing overall. Join Derek Marlin, expert real estate investor, as he brings actionable advice to help you make more money, avoid expensive mistakes, and scale your business with a growth mindset. We’ll talk about the good, the bad, and everything in between as it relates to Fix & Flips and real estate investing overall. On Raising The Flipping Bar, you can expect to hear Derek Marlin share the in-depth strategies his team has...
Weird A$$ Market
Welcome back to another episode of Raising the Flipping Bar!
Everybody's favorite question these days: "How's the market?" In this episode, I'm answering it honestly — it's a weird ass market. I'm breaking down 4 real deals from our pipeline over the last few weeks, and what they reveal about where things stand in Q3 2026.
Here's what we dive into:
A Golden property where the seller's asking price was basically made up out of spite — and what happened when we sat in his living roomLosing a Westminster property to another investor by $60K, and why that actu...36 Showings in 3 Weeks & Grandma Still Tanked the Deal
In this episode, I'm breaking down another Deal Analysis — one of my favorite formats on this show because it's not guru talk, it's real numbers from a real deal we just closed. This one turned into a wild ride: a rough Arvada property that wasn't ready for the market, a textbook acquisitions process, a tight rehab budget, and a sales process that had 36 showings in three weeks before a buyer's grandma tanked the first contract three days in.
I walk through exactly how we found the deal through our cold calling program, the numbers behind the rehab, wh...
From 10X Growth to Lifestyle Business: Which is Best?
In this episode, I break down the two paths I see people taking in real estate and entrepreneurship: the high-growth business model versus the lifestyle business model. I talk about what each path really looks like, the trade-offs involved, and how to think strategically about where you are in your current season of life and business.
I also share some personal reflections about building ELEVATION over the years, what scaling a company actually requires, the importance of systems and delegation, and why I’ve been thinking differently lately about growth, leverage, and time.
Whether you’re f...
Is Flipping Dead in 2026?
In this episode, I’m tackling a question I hear all the time—is flipping dead in 2026?
Short answer: not even close. But the game has changed.
I break down what I’m seeing right now in the Denver market, where the real opportunities are, and how smart investors are still finding profitable deals despite tighter margins and increased competition. This isn’t about guessing—it’s about using real data, understanding market dynamics, and making strategic decisions that actually work in today’s environment.
I also dive into the top submarkets in Denver where I...
From Polar Bear to Unicorn: The Real Estate Agent Role That Can Change Your Career
In this episode, I’m doing something a little different.
Instead of breaking down a deal or strategy, I’m opening up an opportunity — and giving you a behind-the-scenes look at how I’m building and scaling our real estate team heading into 2026.
Right now, deal flow isn’t the issue. The real challenge is having the right people in place to handle the volume, convert opportunities, and continue pushing the business forward without slowing momentum.
After recently expanding the team with high-performing acquisitions reps, I’m now looking for a different kind of player —...
Do Hedge Funds Really Own All the Homes? The Data Says No.
Welcome back to Raising the Flipping Bar.
In this episode, I wanted to slow things down and talk about something dominating headlines — institutional buyers, hedge funds, and Wall Street “owning all the homes.”
There’s a lot of noise, fear, and political rhetoric around this topic. So instead of reacting emotionally, I wanted to look at the actual data and break down what’s really happening — nationally and here in Metro Denver.
I’m not here to get political. I am here to be factual.
Drawing from o...
Private Money Lending Explained: How Smart Investors Win in 2026
Welcome back to Raising the Flipping Bar.
In this episode, I wanted to slow things down and talk about something that’s coming up more and more in my day-to-day conversations — private money lending.
As we head into 2026, deal flow isn’t the problem. The real challenge is being properly capitalized and structuring deals in a way that protects downside while still creating strong returns. That’s where private money comes in.
I break down exactly what private money lending is, how it’s different from hard money, and why it’s b...
Why Most Goals Fail — And How to Build a 2026 Plan That Actually Works
Welcome back to Raising the Flipping Bar!
In this episode, Derek Marlin breaks down the exact goal-setting framework he uses to dominate each year — especially in tougher markets like we’re facing going into 2026.
Instead of vague resolutions or soft targets, Derek dives into the “More, Better, New” system, how to build a real buy box, why most goals fail, and how to create a plan you can actually execute on with discipline, clarity, and extreme ownership.
This episode blends personal story, practical systems, and investor-level strategy to help you level up your business, your min...
Undersatnding the Capital Stack- With Jesse From Indicate Capital
Welcome back to Raising the Flipping Bar!
In this episode, Derek Marlin sits down with Jesse from Indicate Capital — a seasoned lender with deep experience in construction, commercial mortgage banking, and private real estate finance.
Jesse breaks down how the capital stack really works, what today’s lending environment looks like, and the biggest mistakes investors make when structuring deals. From market insights to risk management, this episode is packed with real-world lessons that can help you fund smarter, negotiate better, and protect your profits.
In this episode we cover:
💰 How private lending works i...
Game-Changing Real Estate Strategies I Learned at EXPCON
Welcome back to Raising the Flipping Bar!
In this episode, Derek Marlin recaps his biggest takeaways from EXPCON 2025 — where the top minds in real estate, investing, and entrepreneurship came together to share what’s working right now.
From agent growth and personal development to leadership and wealth-building strategies, Derek breaks down the mindset shifts and business moves that can help you level up in 2026.
In this episode we cover:
🏗️ Key themes and lessons from EXPCON 2025
💡 How top agents are scaling their teams and personal brands
📈 What’s changing in the real estate market hea...
From Side Hustle to Full Time Investor with Jordan Cunningham Pt.2
Welcome back to Part 2 of our conversation with investor and developer Jordan Cunningham of Cunningham Invest. In this episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on the real numbers behind his first big investment move — how he bought his primary home, turned it into a rental, and used equity and appreciation to scale into his next property.
We break down the exact figures, financing details, cash flow, and equity strategy that made this deal possible — so you can see how a smart first purchase can become a long-term wealth-building machine.
In this episode we cover:
From Side Hustle to Full Time Investor with Jordan Cunningham
In this episode of Raising the Flipping Bar, I’m joined by Jordan Cunningham, founder of Cunningham Invest, to talk all things fix and flip, BRRRR investing, and scaling a real estate business from the ground up. Jordan shares how he transitioned from the corporate world into full-time real estate — and the systems, mindset, and team structure that helped him build a thriving investment company.
Here’s what we cover:
Jordan’s journey from side hustles to full-time investorHow he finds and funds his deals in a competitive Denver m...Behind the Numbers: Our Latest Colorado Flip
In this episode of Raising the Flipping Bar, we’re diving into one of my favorite topics — a full deal analysis of a recent cosmetic flip in Wheat Ridge, Colorado. I’m breaking down every number, decision, and lesson from this real project so you can see exactly what worked (and what didn’t) in today’s shifting market.
Here’s what I cover:
The property details and how we sourced the deal
Rehab scope: where we spent, where we saved, and what moved the needle on value
Financing and carrying cost breakdo...
The Real Estate Reboot: Why the Market Looks Weird (But Isn’t Broken)
In this episode, we’re breaking down what’s actually driving today’s real estate market — not predictions, not clickbait, but the real market movers.
I’m joined by special guest Rick “The Wizard”, one of Denver’s sharpest real estate minds, to unpack how interest rates, inventory, and buyer psychology are shaping 2025.
We dive into:
The two different markets we’re seeing — entry-level vs. luxury
Why this is not 2008 (and the data to prove it)
How “recency bias” is affecting both buyers and agents
The rise of builder inventory and...
What I Learned From Alex Hormozi About Building a Brand That Prints Money
In this episode, I’m breaking down one of the most fascinating business plays I’ve ever seen — Alex Hormozi’s $100M business model — and how we can apply it directly to real estate investing.
We’re talking about how Hormozi turned five years of focused work into $100M in a single week, and more importantly, how his principles around pricing, scaling, and building leverage can help you build a smarter, more profitable business.
I’ll walk you through what I learned from his $100M Offers, Leads, and Money Models playbooks — and how I’m using them right n...
A Polar Bear, Not a Unicorn: The Sales Role That Can Change Your Life
In this episode, I share a personal story about chasing my dream job with the Denver Broncos — and how that moment shaped the way I think about opportunity. That experience is what inspired me to open up a rare and one-of-a-kind role at ELEVATION.
We’re hiring one sales professional to join our team. This isn’t your typical acquisitions position — it’s built for the right person who’s hungry, motivated, and ready to grow.
Here’s what I cover in this episode:
Why I created this position and why it’s so unique
Fix & Flip in 2025: What Denver Buyers Really Want
Welcome back to Season 5 – Ep. 4 of Raising the Flipping Bar!
In this episode, Travis and I break down what’s really happening in the Denver fix & flip market as we head deeper into 2025. Buyers are more critical than ever, homes are sitting longer, and the details matter more than they ever have. We share what we’re seeing on the ground, from starter flips all the way up to luxury projects, and what you should be focusing on to stay ahead.
Here’s what we dive into:
Why buyers are being tougher on flips ri...
Book Club Breakdown: Lessons from Gladwell, Napoleon Hill, and More
Welcome back to Season 5 – Ep. 3 of Raising the Flipping Bar!
In this episode, I’m kicking off our new Elevation Business Book Club with a deep dive into the 5 Pillars of Wealth—time, social, mental, physical, and financial—and how they impact both business and life. From timeless classics like Think & Grow Rich to modern insights from Sahil Bloom and Tim Grover, I share what I’ve been reading, re-reading, and most importantly, implementing in 2025.
Here’s what I cover:
Why I re-read my top business books multiple times last year (and what changed in m...
Deal Analysis: How We Turned a Property Into a Winning Flip
Welcome back to Season 5 - Ep. 2 of Raising the Flipping Bar!
In this episode, I’m breaking down one of our deal analysis case studies—a 1972 bi-level in Arvada that we transformed into a modern family home. This project had it all: off-market sourcing, probate delays, full-gut rehab challenges, and ultimately, a strong return for our investor client.
Here’s what I cover:
How we sourced this off-market deal through an agent referral (and why those relationships are gold)
The probate hiccup that delayed closing and how we navigated it
Why...
Season 5 Launch: Updates & Actions
Welcome back to Season 5 of Raising the Flipping Bar!
In this episode, I’m sharing a mid-year 2025 market update and breaking down what’s really happening in the Denver Metro real estate scene. From shifting inventory levels to changing buyer behavior, I go over the latest DMAR housing stats, interest rate impacts, and why I call this a “bipolar market.”
Here’s what I cover:
Why I decided to bring podcast production in-house and the long-term ROI behind it
How I’m sharpening sales strategies by working directly in the business again
2025 Fix & Flip Trends: Design Secrets for Maximum Profit
The real estate game is changing in 2025, and if you’re still flipping houses the way you did in 2020, you’re already behind. Buyers are more selective, and cookie-cutter flips won’t cut it anymore. In this episode of Raising The Flipping Bar, I break down the biggest design trends and strategies that will help you flip faster, sell for more, and stay ahead of the competition.
I’ll cover multifunctional layouts, eco-friendly materials, and the power of great staging—plus, I’ll give you real-world examples from my own projects. If you want to make your properties s...
Flipping Dirt for Profit: How This Couple Built Real Estate Income & Flexibility with Mike and Ligia Deaton
Real estate investing isn’t just about buying properties—it’s about buying the right ones, at the right price, with the right strategy. And if you’ve ever wondered how to successfully invest in land flipping, multifamily deals, and passive income strategies, this episode is for you.
I’m joined by Mike and Ligia, two investors who have mastered the art of finding undervalued land, structuring smart deals, and pivoting in changing markets. They break down their journey from land flipping to large-scale multifamily syndications and share insider tips on buying below market value, creating passive income, an...
The “Fix & List” strategy for Quick ROI with Travis Masse
Flipping houses isn’t just about major renovations—it’s about strategy. In this episode of Raising The Flipping Bar, I sit down with Travis Masse, our senior project manager at Elevation, to break down the Fix & List strategy.
We walk through real-world case studies and show how minor upgrades can lead to major profits without over-improving. Whether you're an investor looking to maximize returns or an agent helping clients sell for top dollar, this episode is packed with actionable insights.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
1. How the Fix & List strategy maximizes profit: The key...
Wholesaling vs. Flipping: Which Strategy Maximizes Your ROI?
In this episode, we're diving deep into the world of wholesaling with insights straight from my personal experience. I'll explore the nuances, challenges, and strategies behind successful wholesaling in real estate. Whether you're flipping properties or scaling your portfolio, understanding wholesaling is a game-changer.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
The key difference between flipping and wholesaling: Discover how each strategy works and when to choose one over the other.Maximizing profits through smart decision-making: Learn how to analyze deals and decide whether to wholesale or flip based on ROI and market conditions.The importance of...3 Proven Strategies to Master Your Time and Scale Your Real Estate Business
Are you ready to make 2025 your best year in real estate? In this episode of Raising the Flipping Bar, I’m sharing the strategies I’m using at ELEVATION to set goals, streamline focus, and build momentum into the new year. From fine-tuning lead generation techniques to cutting through distractions, I’m here to help you start 2025 with a bang.
I’ll break down practical tips like the “MORE - BETTER - NEW” framework and how to say no to distractions to stay laser-focused on what moves the needle. This episode is packed with actionable advice to help you pri...
Why New Year's Resolutions are Bullshit! A Better Way to Crush 2025
Today’s episode is all about breaking free from the New Year’s resolution trap and setting yourself up for real, lasting success in 2025. Spoiler alert: I think New Year’s resolutions are total BS, and here’s why.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
Why 91% of people fail to stick to their resolutions: The common mistakes and how to avoid them.The power of identifying your "why": How connecting to a deeper purpose fuels consistent progress.How big, audacious goals can keep you motivated: Even if you don’t hit them, the progress is worth it.Why sayin...5 Essential AI Tools to Transform Your Real Estate Business with Eli Wood
Are you ready to revolutionize your workflow with AI? In today’s episode, I’m joined by Eli Wood of Black Flag Design, who’s back to share his expertise on integrating AI tools into real estate investing and business operations. Eli breaks down five essential AI tools and how they can save time, reduce costs, and boost efficiency.
From leveraging ChatGPT to mastering MLS data analysis, we explore how AI is changing the game for investors, agents, and contractors. Whether you’re new to AI or looking to refine your tech stack, this episode has actionable insights...
How is AI Revolutionizing Real Estate Investment with Eli Wood
Today, I’m thrilled to introduce Eli Wood, co-founder of Black Flag Design. With a background that blends fine arts, architecture, and cutting-edge AI technology, Eli’s journey is nothing short of inspiring.
In this episode, you will be able to:
1. Discover the potential of AI technology in real estate investing and how it can revolutionize your investment strategies.
2. Learn how to adapt and stay ahead in the real estate market by harnessing the power of AI advancements.
3. Explore the benefits of incorporating AI into your real estate entrepreneurship for smarter decision-making and higher retu...
How to Set and Achieve Big Real Estate Goals in 2025 with Derek Marlin
In this episode of Raising the Flipping Bar, I’m sharing my top strategies to help you set and smash your goals in 2025. Whether you’re flipping your first property or scaling your real estate business, these proven methods will elevate your results and keep you focused on what matters most.
What You’ll Learn
✅ How to set goals that are measurable, specific, mission-driven, and ambitious.
✅ Insights from 10X is Easier Than 2X, Traction, and Vivid Vision to level up your planning.
✅ How to align personal and professional goals for holistic success.
Resou...
Tips from Elevation Academy Alumni Jordan Cunningham and Chris Gould
Today, I’m joined by two powerhouse guests—Chris and Jordan—who are not just Elevation Academy alumni but also standout real estate investors.
In this episode, we explore:
How Chris and Jordan leveraged their unique backgrounds to become top performers.Lessons learned from their first flip, which netted $60,000 in profits.The art of balancing great design with budget-conscious renovations.Why partnerships and networking are key to scaling in real estate.Innovative financing tips, including using HELOCs and private lending.Whether you’re starting your first flip or looking to scale, this episode is packed with act...
Turning Rentals Into Revenue Streams with Stacy Rozansky
On today’s episode, I’m thrilled to have Stacy Ronzansky, a powerhouse real estate agent, investor, and a key member of the ELEVATION team. Stacy’s experience spans around nonprofit real estate development, out-of-state investing, and building a rental portfolio right here in Colorado.
Today, we cover why now is a great time to invest and discuss creative ways to make deals work in today’s market. Stacy also shares her journey from out-of-state rentals to house hacking and short-term rental success.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
Tips for Transitioning from Out-of-State Investment...What Are The Benefits of Real Estate Conferences?
Are large national real estate conferences worth your time and money? In this episode of Raising the Flipping Bar, I delve into the pros and cons of attending these major industry events. Discover how keynote speakers like Will Gudera and Jesse Itzler can transform your approach to real estate through concepts like "unreasonable hospitality" and effective networking strategies.
In this episode, you will be able to:
Evaluate the true value of attending national real estate conferences.Learn how to apply "unreasonable hospitality" in your real estate ventures.Unlock networking opportunities that can lead to profitable partnerships...Quarterly Update: What's New with the Denver Real Estate Market?
Discover the latest trends shaping Denver's real estate market with me in this episode of Raising the Flipping Bar. In this quarterly update, I take a deep dive into market data, share the challenges we’ve faced, and provide actionable strategies to help you navigate a cooling housing landscape.
In this episode, you will be able to:
What Happens to the Housing Market After the Elections?
Want to know how the recent election will impact the real estate market? Are you curious about how to navigate the post-election real estate landscape? Stick around, because I've got the solution to help you make informed investment decisions and proactive business strategies in the ever-changing market.
In this episode, you will be able to:
Understand the Impact of Elections on the Housing Market to make informed investment decisions and navigate the post-election real estate landscape.Implement Proactive Real Estate Investment Strategies post-election to capitalize on potential market shifts and maximize returns.Explore How Interest Rates I...Will the Housing Market Crash Next Year with Kevin Amolsch
If you're feeling overwhelmed by the uncertainty of the housing market and unsure about where to invest, then you are not alone!
The rollercoaster of market trends and conflicting advice can leave you feeling lost and hesitant about your next move. It's time to take control and make informed decisions for your real estate investments.
In this episode, you will be able to:
Discover the insider's forecast for the Denver housing market in 2025Learn expert strategies for successful real estate investing.Uncover the impact of high equity on the housing market and how it af...The Secret to Building a Profitable Property Portfolio with Kevin Amolsch
How's this for a compelling backstory: Kevin was a bull rider in high school rodeo, competing at the state finals level even as a senior. That grit and determination at an early age paved the way for his eventual success as an entrepreneur and real estate mogul.
In this episode, you will be able to:
Mastering Pre-Crash Strategies: Uncover the secrets to safeguarding your real estate investments in uncertain times.Leveraging Lease Options: Discover how lease options can turbocharge your real estate investment returns and provide flexibility.Growing a Rental Property Portfolio: Learn the proven steps t...Cosmetic Flip vs. Full Rehab: Which Real Estate Strategy Should You Choose?
In this week’s episode of Raising the Flipping Bar, I’m diving into one of the most common questions real estate investors face: Should you tackle a cosmetic flip or go all-in with a full rehab? The answer isn’t always simple, and both options come with their own pros and cons. But don’t worry—I’m here to break it all down for you!
In this episode, I’ll cover:
The key differences between cosmetic flips and full rehabsHow to determine which investment strategy is best for your goalsMy top tips for maximizing ROI and increa...Scaling Your Real Estate Business with Smart Financing Strategies with Jake Rome
Welcome back to Raising the Flipping Bar! In this exciting Part 2 of our interview with Jake Rome, co-founder of Backflip, we dive deeper into how real estate investors can leverage institutional capital to scale their business. If you missed Part 1, be sure to listen to it for foundational insights.
In this episode, we explore the advantages of institutional funding, and Jake shares the key strategies Backflip uses to stay ahead in the competitive real estate market.
6 Key Lessons You'll Walk Away With:
1. Maximize Your Deals: Learn how leveraging institutional capital can help you scale...
How Institutional Investors Move Real Estate Markets with Jake Rome
Welcome back to Raising the Flipping Bar! In this episode, I sat down with Jake Rome, an accomplished real estate investor, technology expert, and co-founder of Backflip, to uncover how institutional investors shape the real estate market. Jake’s extensive experience with family offices, institutional capital, and value-add real estate investment offers invaluable insights into how big money moves markets and how that affects you, whether you're a solo investor or scaling your real estate portfolio.
In this episode, you’ll learn 6 key lessons:
The Influence of Institutional Investors on Real Estate Markets: Discover how...Scaling Your Real Estate Business: Insights from Ed Prather's Team and Strategy
In this episode of Raising the Flipping Bar, we continue our conversation with Ed Prather, from navigating challenges in volatile markets to scaling a team that thrives, Ed offers practical advice for real estate investors at all levels. We dive into the critical importance of emotional intelligence, strong team leadership, and adapting strategies to shifting market conditions. Whether you're a new investor or a seasoned pro, his journey offers valuable lessons to elevate your real estate game.
Key takeaways include:
1. The importance of mental fortitude and discipline in investment
2. How to handle unexpected challenges...
