The thrill of the deal: Navigating real estate investment financing

Unpacking the strategies, trends, and advice from a top sales manager

The thrill of the deal: Navigating real estate investment financing

“Every day is game day,” said Christian Groomes (pictured) with a glint of excitement in his eyes.

Groomes, senior sales manager at Lima One Capital - a business purpose lender - knows this well.

“The dynamic nature of real estate investing means no two deals are the same, which keeps things interesting,” he said. “The challenge lies in thinking outside the box, restructuring deals, and ensuring we serve our clients to the best of our ability.”

Acknowledging the impact of elevated mortgage rates on his business, Groomes said: “There’s slowing down a little bit, and uncertainty looms. But we just really have to make sure that our underwriting is strong, and as long as our underwriting is strong, we can stick to our guns for what we know, and that’s going to go a long way right now.”

At Lima One Capital, Groomes focuses on fix and flip projects, bridge loans for one to four-unit properties, and multifamily bridge loans for up to nine units. He also works with ground-up developments and build-to-rent deals.

Hailing from the vibrant southeast region, Groomes has witnessed firsthand the boom in real estate markets across states like Georgia, North Carolina, and Tennessee. These states, he noted, have become hotspots for investors seeking lucrative opportunities.

While residential properties remain a significant draw, Groomes highlighted a growing interest in commercial spaces, particularly in areas undergoing urban revitalization. “There’s a shift happening,” he observed. “Investors are seeing the long-term potential in commercial properties, especially in areas that are being reimagined and redeveloped.”

But what sets Groomes apart in this competitive landscape? His ability to adapt, innovate, and consistently deliver results. He emphasized the importance of understanding the market, the neighborhood, and the potential return on investment.

Networking, according to Groomes, is the second crucial element in the real estate playbook. Building connections with local realtors, contractors, and fellow investors can open doors to invaluable insights and opportunities.

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“It’s a collaborative industry,” he said. “The more you network, the better positioned you are to spot trends, challenges, and potential deals.”

Reflecting on his journey, Groomes offered his last piece of advice, and probably the most important: “Don’t be afraid to start small,” he said. “Every successful investor started somewhere. It’s all about taking that first step and learning along the way.”

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