If you’re a real estate investor or entrepreneur looking to scale your business, I want to share one word with you that has changed everything for me: leverage.
I recently had the opportunity to sit down with John Casmon on his Multifamily Insights podcast. We had an incredible conversation about growing a real estate portfolio, running multiple businesses, and how I use AI and team leverage to get more done—without burning out.
Here’s a breakdown of what I shared—and how you can apply it, even if you’re just starting out.
Why Leverage Is the Secret to Growth
I’ve been an entrepreneur since I was 12. But things really took off when I learned how to leverage help—even when I didn’t think I could afford it.
At 22, I was a newly single mom starting my first business with almost no money. Someone told me, “You need help at home.” That advice changed my life. I hired my first helper and focused on building—and that pattern of delegating to grow has stuck with me ever since.
Today, I leverage:
- My amazing team
- AI tools and automations
- Virtual assistants
- Systems and tech platforms
Even my kids understand leverage—when they’re asked how I do it all, they say: “My mommy gets a lot of help.” And they’re right!
How I Use AI to Save Time and Grow Smarter
AI is not just for tech companies or coders. I use it every single day in my businesses, especially in real estate. Here are a few examples:
- Capital raising: My team uses AI to evaluate investor profiles before I ever get on a call. This helps us understand risk tolerance and personality fit.
- Leasing: We’ve replaced 50% of our leasing process with chatbots that book tours and answer tenant questions automatically.
- Inbox management: AI assistants like Fyxer sort and draft my emails so I don’t spend hours in my inbox.
- Market analysis: I use AI to scan data from thousands of sources to find high-potential investment markets.
These tools help uscut expenses, improve operations, and move faster than the competition.
Why I Focus on Cash Flow (Not Just Equity)
In our conversation, John and I talked about investment strategy. I’m very focused on cash-flowing multifamily properties in secondary and tertiary markets. Here’s why:
- Equity is just paper until you sell—but cash flow is real income.
- Smaller markets are seeing population growth (especially post-COVID) and have less competition than the big cities.
- We avoid “negative leverage” deals and only invest in properties that generate strong quarterly returns.
That approach has helped me grow to over 1,400 units across the U.S.
People Ask Me All the Time:
What does leverage mean in business?
Leverage means getting help from tools, people, or systems so you can focus on what matters most—like growth and strategy.
How do beginners use AI?
Start small. Use ChatGPT to write emails, summarize meetings, or plan your week. Then explore tools like Fixer or custom chatbots for leasing.
What’s the best way to start investing in real estate?
Focus on cash-flowing deals in up-and-coming markets. Partner with experienced operators or join a syndication.
Why invest in secondary markets?
These areas often offer better returns, less competition, and strong renter demand.
Key Takeaways from My Conversation
- Leverage is the key to scaling—and it starts with hiring help or using AI.
- AI is not just a trend—it’s how I manage my inbox, my team, and my investor relationships.
- Focus oncash flow and smart markets—not just appreciation or “hot” cities.
- If you’re serious about scaling,invest in tools that save time and create income.
- Don’t wait—start using AI today. Even small steps can change your business.
Want to Learn How to Use AI in Your Business?
If you’re ready to apply these strategies and take your investing or business to the next level, I invite you to connect directly with me. Whether you’re looking to invest in tech-powered, value-add multifamily deals or explore how AI can transform your operations, Venus Capital is here to help. Visit venuspartners.com/invest to explore our current offerings, or book a discovery call on our contact page to get tailored guidance based on your goals. I’m excited to chat with you and empower your journey toward real results—leveraged, efficient, and future-forward.