Four Asian Trailblazing investors share their journey into commercial real estate, their recent acquisition of an 82-unit Class A property in Richardson, Texas, and the unique challenges and triumphs they’ve faced as women in a traditionally male-dominated industry. Team Roles and Superpowers: - Lila Kaplan: Capital raising + acquisitions, leveraging a Wall Street background. - Anita Wong: Operations + capital raising, balancing motherhood and multifamily. - Linchi Chong: Asset management and on-the-ground operations, bringing restaurant management experience and Spanish fluency to the table. – Ashley Cao: Lender of choice, making sure the right loan is in place and the official team cheerleader. From navigating pregnancy while managing properties to closing million-dollar acquisitions, these women are proving that you don’t have to choose between family and financial freedom. "We’re doing this not only for ourselves but for the rest of our family as well." – Lila Kaplan

To contact Ashley Cao: ACao@oldcapitallending.com
To contact Linchi Chong: LinchiChong1@gmail.com
To contact Lila Kaplan: Lila@silverbackequitypartners.com
To contact Anita Wong: Anita@giverisecapital.com
To contact Tony Lin at Linfinity: Tony@linkmultifamily.com

Are you ready to unlock the potential of Multifamily Syndications? Discover how Michael Becker’s proven real estate syndication business can open doors to financial growth and your long-term success. Visit SPIADVISORY.COM today and start your journey toward smarter investing!

n this eye-opening episode, we dive deep into a rarely discussed yet critical issue in commercial real estate: conflicts of interest when investment sales brokers push buyers toward in-house mortgage brokers. What may seem like a convenient “one-stop shop” can, in reality, disadvantage the buyer — sometimes significantly. Using a poker analogy, we paint a vivid picture: what if the seller and broker knew your hand? That’s essentially what happens when the sales and financing sides are too cozy — split loyalties, hidden fees, and lost leverage for buyers. This episode is a masterclass in buyer awareness. Paul Peebles doesn’t just point out the problems—he offers real-world strategies to protect yourself. His comparison to poker isn’t just clever, it’s chillingly accurate. In commercial real estate, where millions are at stake, understanding who’s really on your team can make or break a deal.
Conflicts of Interest Are Real
Many investment sales brokers recommend their own firm’s mortgage team. This can result in referral fees and biased advice that puts the buyer at a disadvantage.
Ask the Hard Questions
Transparency is key. Buyers should directly ask brokers:
• “Are you getting paid to refer me?”
• “Do you have any financial stake in this lender relationship?”
Use an Independent Team
Securing the best deal often requires working with independent mortgage brokers, attorneys, and advisors who have your interests—not the seller’s—at heart.
Think Long Term
Your relationship with your lender doesn’t end at closing. Choose partners who will support you throughout the life of the loan—not just get the deal done.
Know the Law (and the Loopholes)
While these referral practices are illegal in residential real estate under RESPA, there’s no such restriction in commercial deals. That makes buyer vigilance even more important.
One standout message: Don’t be afraid to stand your ground. Most brokers will respect your decision to bring your own financing team—if they don’t, that’s a red flag in itself.

Are you ready to unlock the potential of Multifamily Syndications? Discover how Michael Becker’s proven real estate syndication business can open doors to financial growth and your long-term success. Visit SPIADVISORY.COM today and start your journey toward smarter investing!

In this episode of our Coaching and Counseling podcast, we dive into the murky waters of apartment investment sales with the help of ChatGPT and over 30 years of real-world experience in apartment financing and ownership.
We asked ChatGPT to help uncover the truth behind common rumors about how apartment sales brokers treat buyers. Are brokers really overinflating property values? Do they hide conflicts of interest? Misrepresent operating expenses? Gatekeep quality opportunities?
Together with insights from AI and our seasoned team, we break down the top 10 shady tactics sometimes used in the industry—and give you the real story behind each one. Whether you're a first-time buyer or a seasoned investor, this episode will help you approach apartment deals with sharper eyes and better questions.

Are you ready to unlock the potential of Multifamily Syndications? Discover how Michael Becker’s proven real estate syndication business can open doors to financial growth and your long-term success. Visit SPIADVISORY.COM today and start your journey toward smarter investing!