On this episode of the On The Rise Podcast’s Faith Driven Leaders series, host Nick Stromwall sits down with Todd Bowen, a Michigan real estate investor and founder of Trinity Investment Group. Todd shares how a podcast-fueled education and a surprising conversation with his financial advisor led to his first rental in 2017, and how an early wave of evictions pointed him toward partnering with local agencies that house domestic abuse survivors, the chronically homeless, and people reentering society. He opens up about overcoming judgment, hard lessons in trust, raising his sons around the business, and building the time freedom to be present for his family.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
1. Put what you learn into action.
After a year of learning through podcasts, Todd asked the seller at his first closing if he had more properties. That one question led to his second deal, a three-unit.
2. Let early struggles reveal your mission.
Going from zero to five units in two months brought three evictions. Researching agency housing programs turned a unit count into a mission to serve.
3. Partner where the need is greatest.
At one point, 19 of Trinity’s 22 units were leased to organizations serving abuse survivors, the homeless, reentry, mental health, and young adults with disabilities. The demand is nonstop.
4. Protect the asset while serving people.
Working with reentry and substance abuse programs required careful lease language. Most leases run 12 months with the agency, which moves clients in and out as needed.
5. Replace judgment with relationship.
Meeting tenants and hearing their stories showed Todd they want what everyone wants: a clean, safe place to live. As he puts it, “Work is worship.”
6. Get it in writing.
A nonprofit CEO verbally committed to a property, Todd bought it, and the board rejected the deal. Now he requires a signed lease or LOI first.
7. Build systems that protect your time.
Agencies contact Todd’s handyman directly for routine repairs, and management stays within business hours. That frees him to drive his kids to school and be at their games.
8. Keep your why and your lifestyle in check.
Pray about it, get your spouse on board, and expect hard work and persistence. Live below your means and don’t let cash flow fuel lifestyle creep.
LINKS
Website: https://trinityrei.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/trinity_reig/
Email: TrinityGroup88@gmail.com
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