Darren Fisk is the founder and CEO of Forum Investment Group, a multifamily investment platform he launched in 2007. He has led over $2.4 billion in investments across 21 states and also serves on the advisory board of ACE Scholarships.

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Guest Resource

Forum Investment Group – Check out Darren’s website to connect and explore partnerships.

3 Value Bombs

1. The best investment opportunities often appear when others are fearful; get in when no one else is.

2. Diversification across cycles and income streams creates resilience in volatile markets.

3. Growth comes from getting comfortable being uncomfortable and acting with conviction during uncertainty.

Show Notes

**Click the time stamp to jump directly to that point in the episode.

Today’s Audio MASTERCLASS: Building Through Cycles: From Surviving 2008 to Rethinking Real Estate Investing

[1:13] – Darren shares something he believes about becoming successful that most people disagree with.

When everyone is getting into an investment, it’s time to get out.
The best opportunities come when others are avoiding the market.

[2:08] – Darren talks about what gave him the confidence to launch right before the 2008 financial crisis.

Intuition and recognizing that market conditions felt “too good to be true”.
Entrepreneurs must trust their gut and act on early signals.
Biggest mistakes come from ignoring your instincts.

[3:48] – Darren talks about how his business evolved after the crash.

Expanded beyond a single focus into debt, private credit, and equity.
Built a diversified model like a “casino” with multiple revenue streams.
Ensured at least one vertical performs well in any cycle.

[5:25] – Darren talks about what multifamily investing is and why it is resilient.

Multifamily = rental housing with multiple units (not for sale).
It’s a needs-based investment; people always need housing.
Modern amenities make renting more attractive than buying for many.

[7:27] – Darren tells why now is an opportunity in multifamily investing.

Market has shifted from growth to survival over recent years.
Rising interest rates lowered asset values.
Current environment offers opportunity to buy at lower prices.

[10:15] – A timeout to thank our sponsors.

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[12:33] – Darren talks about what a 1031 exchange is and how does time pressure affect investors.

A 1031 allows investors to defer taxes by reinvesting proceeds into new property.
Investors have 45 days to identify and 180 days to close.
Time pressure often leads to rushed and poor investment decisions.

[16:00] – Darren talks about what real estate exchange strategy is and how it has evolved.

Shift from individual property exchanges to diversified fund structures.
New models (DSTs and 721 UPREITs) allow broader diversification.
Focus is now on better investment decisions; not just tax deferral.

[17:16] – Darren talks about the leadership lesson that helped him navigate volatility.

Constantly adapt and evolve with the market.
Avoid staying static; markets dictate opportunities.

[18:20] – Darren gives his advice for entrepreneurs who are facing uncertainty.

Get comfortable being uncomfortable.
Take action when others hesitate.
Act with long-term conviction rather than short-term fear.

[19:40] – Darren give his key takeaway.

Leaders ask questions and never become complacent.
Curiosity drives insight and opportunity.

[20:59] – Call to action.

Forum Investment Group – Check out Darren’s website to connect and explore partnerships.

[22:10] – Thank you to our Sponsors!

Plaud: The world’s #1 AI notetaking brand! Check out Plaud.ai/eof and use code EOF for 10% off!
HighLevel: The ultimate all-in-one platform for entrepreneurs, marketers, coaches, and agencies! Learn more at HighLevelFire.com!

Webpage Disclosures: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be used or construed as an offer to sell, a solicitation of an offer to buy, or a recommendation to buy, sell or hold any security, investment, investment strategy, or market sector. This material is intended only to provide a broad market overview for discussion purposes. An investor should not construe the contents of this material as legal, tax, investment, or other advice. Investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal and fluctuation of value. In considering any performance data contained herein, each recipient should bear in mind that past performance is not indicative of future results, and there can be no assurance that an investment program will achieve comparable results or will achieve any projected, estimated, or targeted results. Any projections, market outlooks, or estimates in this podcast are forward-looking statements and are based upon assumptions that are subject to inherent limitations. This podcast reflects our views and opinions as of the date herein. which are subject to change at any time based on market and other conditions. We disclaim any responsibility to update these views. Any projections, outlooks, or assumptions should not be construed to be indicative of the actual events which will occur.

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