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All Forum Posts by: Robert Ellis

Robert Ellis has started 340 posts and replied 3219 times.

Post: Is Multi-Family Investing Still Worth It in 2025?

Robert Ellis
Posted
  • Developer
  • Columbus, OH
  • Posts 3,623
  • Votes 1,730
Quote from @Brian Burke:

It depends on how you define multifamily investing.  Small stuff, like duplexes, 4-plexes, even 20-unit type of stuff is still viable for wealth building over the long term if you can find long-term financing such as local bank debt, and you are in a decent rental market.

If you define it as large multifamily, such as 100-unit and up apartment complexes, it gets more complicated.  This sector has been virtually un-investable for over three years, and remains so today.  It pains me to say it because this has been my primary business for over two decades and no one likes to see their industry non-viable, but I just have to call balls and strikes.  I sold 3/4 of my portfolio in 2021 and 2022 and my only wish is that I could have sold it all.

Maybe in a year or two I'll see the signs that point to a good re-entry point.  Today is certainly better than any time in the last three years, but there is just no rush--bottoming will be a process, not an event.


 great comments, where were you focused? You still see a lot developed but it is tougher. Were you in ground up development or existing? I agree I haven't been outside development or entitlement for a few years but I could imagine if it's existing it's been tougher. 

Post: Why is Lennar—the largest homebuilder in America—still not building in Columbus, Ohio

Robert Ellis
Posted
  • Developer
  • Columbus, OH
  • Posts 3,623
  • Votes 1,730
Quote from @Jay Hinrichs:

back in 2004 or so when one of my business's was a retail brokerage.  I sold a few subdivisions in Portland Metro and Vancouver that were purpose build to rent.

U dont see it anymore at least I dont.. land is too expensive. U would need rents to be in the 5k range to make any kind of sense of it and right now rents ceiling in that kind of setting at lest in the PDX metro is about 3k .. U might find a few one offs in starter home development.

But thats about it. the project i just funded over in Bend is 140 townhouses that will go retail thats starter housing in that market..  And then the parcel next to it Lennars MF arm is developing it with 300 apartments..

Apartment building in the Portland proper has ground to a halt.. The city a few years ago now requires about 20 or 25% of the doors to be low income units.. private sector wont do that not when it cost 400k or so to build one apartment. 


 I'm glad I have access to cheap land in COLUMBUS Ohio 

Post: Providing New Construction Buyers with "Options" Without the Overwhelm

Robert Ellis
Posted
  • Developer
  • Columbus, OH
  • Posts 3,623
  • Votes 1,730
Quote from @Devin James:

We haven't offered any “options” to buyers because it creates a lot to manage during the build process. But we’re starting to realize that not all upgrades have to be complicated.

There are a handful of simple, affordable upgrades we can offer while under contract that add real value for buyers—without adding major complexity for us.

Things like:

- Screened lanais

- Upgraded light fixtures

We’re exploring the idea of having a model home that includes these upgrades, and giving buyers the option to add them in for an additional cost. Clean. Simple. Valuable.


 I think spec is better at the most affordable price. We are looking at selling whole communities without having to ever talk to one buyer. Let them rent one of the 100 houses an institutional level investor builds to rent for them. as we entitle larger sites we are focused more on BTR than individual home sales or taking it horizontal. faster exits. 

Post: New Construction for Investors (Columbus)

Robert Ellis
Posted
  • Developer
  • Columbus, OH
  • Posts 3,623
  • Votes 1,730
Quote from @Marc Rice:
Quote from @Sachin Amin:

Hello BP community - any one lately come across new construction properties for investors in Columbus OH, most of these builders in Columbus refrain from selling it to investors and only entertain first time home buyers or if you plan to make it as primary home to live in. (Rockford, MI, Pulte, Ryan homes) - any one know of builders who are investor friendly in Columbus?

sachin


 I work directly with a Dr. Horton rep. We discussed the best x3 build to rent products they sell now. They offer rates in the 5% too for 25% down.


 build direct don't buy from builders. you are paying top of the market prices unless you are strategic. there are certain areas where there are good deals on new builds. mainly ashville ohio. what was DR Hortons top 3? let's see the Floorplans. Their BTR product in reynoldsburg is the only product I've seen institutions purchase in columbus. 

Post: Buying Land & Building

Robert Ellis
Posted
  • Developer
  • Columbus, OH
  • Posts 3,623
  • Votes 1,730
Quote from @Jay Hinrichs:
Quote from @Chris Seveney:
Quote from @Robert Ellis:
Quote from @Chris Seveney:
Quote from @Kwanza P.:

Anyone have experience or advice for buying land ? Especially land where you’re most likely to be on a septic system (on purpose because you love nature and that’s just how it is). 

Any tips, resources, links, on buying land ? Then building a house on that land? 

Kwanza 


 If you are buying land for septic, you will want to do proper due diligence to make sure you have water available and also the property can support a septic system and a size that matches the size of the home. Even if it can, depending on soil conditions it could be a traditional system or an alternative system which can cost 5x more. Always ask the seller if they have done any perc test on the property.


 anyone buying land with private utilities is doomed. no institutional level interest. I tore down 3 houses for a builder that were less than 10 years old and they used to do "build on your lot" and tore all 3 houses down it was on a ground lease. 

I would not say they are doomed at all. Most who build are not building for institutional buyers as they make up 1-2% of all home purchasess. I have built and/or developed as part of a team more homes than I can count on septic systems - especially whenI was living in Massachusetts as many of the communities do not have public sewer or water. For example two of the W towns (Wayland and Weston) in Massachusetts are on private services. Check out their home prices. 

i am sure @Jay Hinrichs has done a good amount of development on private utilities as well


Chris absolutly as an old land guy it was rare to have public utls at least in rural to semi rural settings.  Also on land leases  a lot of what I fund in baltimore ( those row houses) they sit on leased land.. Just like good portions of Hawaii. 

 Jay, I know you aren't funding deals with private utilities? If I brought you a deal and said it had private utilities you'd reject that in one minute. 

Post: Buying Land & Building

Robert Ellis
Posted
  • Developer
  • Columbus, OH
  • Posts 3,623
  • Votes 1,730
Quote from @Chris Seveney:
Quote from @Robert Ellis:
Quote from @Chris Seveney:
Quote from @Kwanza P.:

Anyone have experience or advice for buying land ? Especially land where you’re most likely to be on a septic system (on purpose because you love nature and that’s just how it is). 

Any tips, resources, links, on buying land ? Then building a house on that land? 

Kwanza 


 If you are buying land for septic, you will want to do proper due diligence to make sure you have water available and also the property can support a septic system and a size that matches the size of the home. Even if it can, depending on soil conditions it could be a traditional system or an alternative system which can cost 5x more. Always ask the seller if they have done any perc test on the property.


 anyone buying land with private utilities is doomed. no institutional level interest. I tore down 3 houses for a builder that were less than 10 years old and they used to do "build on your lot" and tore all 3 houses down it was on a ground lease. 

I would not say they are doomed at all. Most who build are not building for institutional buyers as they make up 1-2% of all home purchasess. I have built and/or developed as part of a team more homes than I can count on septic systems - especially whenI was living in Massachusetts as many of the communities do not have public sewer or water. For example two of the W towns (Wayland and Weston) in Massachusetts are on private services. Check out their home prices. 

i am sure @Jay Hinrichs has done a good amount of development on private utilities as well


 Maybe it's different for us but we wouldn't touch lots and neither would any builder I know with private utilities. That's any builder. I'm not sure why you would ever by a lot on purpose without public utilities. It drives every land transaction we have and all institutional level we work with as well. they definitely make up way more than 1% of the market. Institutions are delivering 1 million new houses a year and how many developments for mixed use? I think the point is that utility access if it's not public sewer and water is a no for every builder in our market and every developer I've ever talked to. 

Post: Are Remote Work Trends Changing the Game for Vacation Rentals?

Robert Ellis
Posted
  • Developer
  • Columbus, OH
  • Posts 3,623
  • Votes 1,730

With so many people now working remotely, I’ve been noticing a shift in the type of renters looking for vacation properties. More folks are opting for longer stays, and it’s got me thinking

how are you all adapting to this trend? Are you catering more to digital nomads or still focusing on short-term vacationers? Let’s talk about how this shift is affecting profitability and how you're making it work!

Post: Is Multi-Family Investing Still Worth It in 2025?

Robert Ellis
Posted
  • Developer
  • Columbus, OH
  • Posts 3,623
  • Votes 1,730

Hey everyone! I’ve been diving deep into multi-family and apartment investing lately and wanted to get some thoughts from the community. With interest rates shifting and market conditions constantly evolving, do you think it’s still a solid strategy for long-term wealth building?

What have you seen working in today’s environment—are you focusing on Class A, B, or C properties? Also, how are you approaching property management and ensuring cash flow remains steady, especially with rising operational costs?

Post: Unlock the Potential of Single-Family Home Construction in Columbus, Ohio

Robert Ellis
Posted
  • Developer
  • Columbus, OH
  • Posts 3,623
  • Votes 1,730

Are you looking to invest in single-family home construction in Columbus? Whether you're new to the market or a seasoned investor, there’s tremendous opportunity here in Central Ohio.

Columbus is experiencing significant growth—both in population and economic development. The demand for quality single-family homes is rising, and the time is now to get involved in building for the future.

Here’s how I can help:

  • Local Expertise: I’ve worked in Columbus for years, understanding the local market and navigating the nuances of zoning, permits, and local regulations.

  • Proven Process: From site selection to the final touches, my team and I handle the details so you can focus on growing your portfolio.

  • Tailored Solutions: Every project is unique. Whether you’re building for resale, long-term rental, or short-term rental opportunities, we design and construct homes with your specific goals in mind.

Let’s build something meaningful together. Whether you're aiming to build your first home or expand an existing portfolio, I offer the support, guidance, and expertise you need to succeed in Columbus real estate.

Ready to get started? Drop me a message and let's explore how we can turn your vision into a profitable reality.

Build with my team—build with confidence.

Disclaimer:
This communication is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities. Any such offer or solicitation will be made only through official offering documents and in accordance with applicable securities laws.

The investment opportunity described is available only to accredited investors as defined
under Rule 501(a) of Regulation D under the Securities Act of 1933. Investors will be required to
verify their accredited investor status before accessing investment materials.

Investing in real estate involves significant risks, including but not limited to potential loss of
capital, liquidity constraints, and market volatility. Past performance is not indicative of future
results. Prospective investors should conduct their own independent due diligence and consult
with their own legal, tax, and financial advisors before making an investment decision.

For more information, please contact us directly to review financials, gain access to the investor
vault, or discuss the project in detail.

Post: Transforming Land into Inventory: Midwest Residential Growth Fund I

Robert Ellis
Posted
  • Developer
  • Columbus, OH
  • Posts 3,623
  • Votes 1,730

Unlock Profitable Land Development in the Midwest


Midwest Residential Growth Fund I offers a unique investment opportunity focused on transforming raw land into valuable residential inventory in the Midwest. We specialize in acquiring and entitling land under $60K per acre and developing shovel-ready lots for homebuilders like DR Horton and MI Homes. With a proven strategy and builder-backed demand, our approach delivers exceptional risk-adjusted returns.

  • Targeted Returns: 25–35% IRR

  • Investment Term: 3–5 years

  • Minimum Investment: $100,000

  • Location Focus: Central Ohio with plans to expand to additional markets such as Dayton, Cleveland, and Indianapolis.

This fund provides downside protection backed by land and offers scalable returns with builder-validated exits. If you're looking to invest in the growing Midwest housing market, this is the perfect opportunity. Let's connect to learn more! 

Disclaimer:
This communication is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities. Any such offer or solicitation will be made only through official offering documents and in accordance with applicable securities laws.

The investment opportunity described is available only to accredited investors as defined
under Rule 501(a) of Regulation D under the Securities Act of 1933. Investors will be required to
verify their accredited investor status before accessing investment materials.

Investing in real estate involves significant risks, including but not limited to potential loss of
capital, liquidity constraints, and market volatility. Past performance is not indicative of future
results. Prospective investors should conduct their own independent due diligence and consult
with their own legal, tax, and financial advisors before making an investment decision.

For more information, please contact us directly to review financials, gain access to the investor
vault, or discuss the project in detail.