Investing in commercial real estate can be complex, but strategic partnerships make it possible to scale without taking on full operational responsibility.
In this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan Greene talks with John Azar of Peak 15 Capital about how co-GP deals, funds, and diversified assets create opportunities for investors to build long-term wealth. John emphasizes that success in real estate isn’t just about properties. It’s also about the people behind the deals.
John explains the difference between investing in individual syndications and investing through a fund. By participating in a diversified portfolio of assets, including multifamily, industrial, and car washes, investors gain access to multiple cash flow streams while minimizing operational involvement. He likens the experience to “getting a taste” of different asset classes without having to manage them, which allows investors to gradually transition toward more passive income over time.
A key advantage of real estate, John and Jonathan note, is its tangible nature. Unlike stocks or bonds, properties can be seen, touched, and evaluated firsthand. Investors can visit sites, review buildings, and even explore the land underneath, giving them confidence in their investments. This tangibility also adds optionality, providing more flexibility if life circumstances change or if investors want to repurpose the property for different uses.
John stresses that deal evaluation is equally about people and numbers. At Peak 15 Capital, conservative underwriting emphasizes realistic rent growth, cap rates, and funding strategies to prevent inflated projections. Beyond the numbers, personal intuition plays a crucial role. Meeting partners in person can reveal whether a deal is a fit. He advises investors to trust their instincts and pass on deals that feel off, regardless of how promising the returns may appear.
For those looking to dive deeper, Peak 15 Capital offers a multifamily accelerator course. This comprehensive program guides investors through acquisition, management, financing, and disposition, blending smaller-scale fundraising with institutional strategies. The course prepares participants to confidently grow their portfolios while gaining a comprehensive understanding of the mechanics of multifamily investment.
If you want to learn more about Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing Podcast, check out https://zenandtheartofrealestateinvesting.com/podcast/282/.