Podcast Episode

82. The Art of Real Estate: Assaf Leib on building value through design and development

The Kevin Dairaghi Show: Real Estate Investing & Personal Growth·Kevin Dairaghi | Real Estate Coach & Passive Income Strategist·9 March 2026·59 min

About this episode

Work with Kevin to get the confidence to build the life you want. - - - - The One with Assaf Leib Discover how Assaf Leib transitioned from architecture to real estate investing, leveraging his design skills to identify opportunities and maximize property value. Join us as we explore niche strategies, private lending, and building a portfolio from the ground up. 00:00 - Welcome and introduction to Assaf Leib's background 02:43 - Why Assaf shifted from architecture to real estate 04:42 - Living in Newburgh: history, location, and revitalization potential 06:08 - How Hudson Valley's rich history influences investment opportunities 08:22 - Assaf’s first investments in challenged neighborhoods 12:45 - Structuring private loans: benefits for investors and lenders 15:17 - Private lenders interest rates and deal examples 16:09 - Exploring assisted living community investments 17:45 - Raising capital with private lenders and syndications 20:55 - Assessing your initial capital, skills, and network for real estate 22:26 - The realities of property management and tenant relationships 24:13 - Long-term appreciation via slow flip strategy 26:34 - Notes and creative financing niches in real estate 33:23 - The importance of geographic and niche focus in investing 36:16 - Building local vendor and partner networks in Hudson Valley 39:01 - Joining local REIAs to expand opportunities 44:24 - Design insights: layout, renovation, and value enhancement 49:44 - Forging moments: buying bigger, scaling, and long-term vision 54:38 - Final words and advice for aspiring investors 55:14 - Wrap-up and final thoughts - - - - Kevin is definitely available for more MC and speaking opportunities. Have a group, you'd like him to speak to - Your kid's team? Your team? Your church? Just ask us! New linktree: linktr.ee/kevindairaghi House Buying Website: www.RestoreSTL.com Connect with Kevin Dairaghi! Website: www.kevindairaghi.com LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kdairaghi Instagram: @thekevindairaghishow Facebook: www.facebook.com/kdairaghi Get free access to some of the tools we talked about at www.kevindairaghi.com/tools You are who you surround yourself with. Join the Tribe! RATE & REVIEW this episode on Apple and Spotify. SHARE this episode with someone who needs it!   A huge thank you to our sponsors: Lois Mans with Farmers Insurance - Insurance! ‭(314) 283-1981‬ Greg Mans with Upright Construction - Roofs! (314) 374-1343‬ Adam Droege with CRS Realty - Property Management! (314) 325-8328 Jason Hudson with Red Maples Construction - Turnovers! (314) 312-2147 Nate Tomlin with Tomlin Heating & Air - HVAC! (314) 319-9678 Please reach out to them - they are my real estate team! Tell them Kevin sent ya!   Dealmachine Bonus: http://www.dealmachine.com/KDSHOW