Real Estate Junkies: Coast 2 Coast
Join Rick Abiatti and Russell Ham as they share their incredible journey from meeting almost five years ago to becoming successful real estate entrepreneurs. Despite having no prior real estate experience, Rick and Russell decided to start a business, which revolutionized their lives. Moving from systems engineer/program manager and teaching careers, they found passion and freedom in creative financial real estate.
Rick and Russell focus on the 3 pillars to being a successful entrepreneur and the 4 Game Plans (Lease Purchase, Owner Finance, Subject To, & Executive Lease Purchase, which launched their business to a point where they were able to leave their W2 jobs.
Real Estate Junkies: Coast 2 Coast
45 | Lessons From the Trenches – Creative Real Estate Unfiltered
In this milestone 500th episode of the Smart Real Estate Coach Podcast, the tables turn as host Chris Prefontaine is interviewed by three of his own coaching leaders: Mike Makredes, as well as, your Real Estate Junkies hosts, Russell Ham and Rick Abbiati. Together, they reflect on a decade of growth, grit, and groundbreaking deals within the Wicked Smart® community.
Chris opens up about the ever-evolving creative real estate landscape and emphasizes a key truth: change is constant, but success lies in learning how to pivot effectively. He shares what he’d do differently if starting over—hint: hire an executive assistant and VA on day one—and dives into topics like niche lead lists, owner financing, scaling through coaching, and the discipline of staying focused rather than chasing shiny objects.
The conversation is packed with actionable wisdom for both seasoned investors and newcomers: the value of association, stacking strategies, managing expectations, staying consistent, and journaling for clarity and growth. Rick, Mike, and Rusty also reflect on how coaching has sharpened their deal structuring, communication, and confidence—while giving back to associates walking the same path.
This is more than a podcast—it’s a blueprint for sustainable success in creative real estate. Whether you’re at deal one or deal 100, this episode reminds you: stay in the game, stay coachable, and surround yourself with a community that pushes you to grow.
📍Don’t miss the announcements on QLS Live 2025 and the free In the Trenches Bootcamp.
🎧 Tune in. Take notes. And get Wicked Smart.
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Resources:
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Work with us 1:1 (3 Day Event) In the Trenches Bootcamp
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