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In this episode of The Land Development Podcast, host Ryan Glick brings back three familiar voices—Charles Covey, Jack Rowe, and Tim Early—for a group discussion focused on two big topics: how land is really valued and what can be done to solve the missing middle housing problem. These guys are active in the industry every day, and they talk through what they’re seeing on the ground when it comes to pricing, market shifts, and development decisions.

They kick things off by breaking down the common mistakes people make when buying land, especially newer investors who assume prices will always go up. The group talks about how land value is tied to what can be built on it and how quickly it can be sold—not just what a neighbor sold their land for. They also explain why land prices often stay high even when the broader market cools down.

From there, the conversation shifts to affordable housing and the missing middle—homes that are smaller and more reasonably priced but often hard to get approved. They talk about how current city rules and zoning laws can block the kind of housing many people actually need. Everyone agrees that developers are ready to build these homes if cities allow more flexibility.

Finally, they look at the role of financing tools like special districts and how they can help projects move forward, especially when costs are high. While the challenges are real, the episode also highlights the opportunity for builders and developers who are willing to adapt and think differently. This one’s packed with useful insight for anyone involved in land or housing development.

Additional details on this episode, including info on our guest can be found on the show notes page: https://letsgroov.com/podcast/how-land-is-valued-why-prices-stay-high-and-solving-the-missing-middle.

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In this episode of The Land Development Podcast, Ryan Glick and co-host Charles Covey kick things off with a look at the Federal Reserve’s recent decision to hold interest rates steady. Ryan and Charles talk through what this means for developers, especially those managing budgets where borrowing costs play a big role. They also discuss the possibility of rate cuts later this year and how the Fed’s cautious approach might affect upcoming projects.

Next, they dive into Zillow’s latest housing market forecast. With home prices expected to rise only slightly over the next year and existing home sales remaining sluggish, Charles shares his take on why buyers are sitting tight and how new home sales continue to be the brighter spot in today’s market. They also touch on why Louisiana and Texas markets are seeing slower growth and how seasonality could impact sales as we head into spring.

The third article they cover comes from CBRE, warning about the impact tariffs could have on commercial real estate. Charles offers his insights into how uncertainty around tariffs is causing businesses to hold back on expansion and investment. They also discuss the challenges and opportunities this creates for developers and investors in the months ahead.

All links to the articles discussed during this episode can be found on the show notes page: https://letsgroov.com/podcast/industry-news-fed-march-rate-decision-housing-market-pricing-projections-and-tariff-impacts-on-commercial-real-estate.

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In this episode of The Land Development Podcast, Ryan Glick sits down with Adam Kaduce and Nathan Rupprecht from R&R Realty Group in West Des Moines, Iowa. Both guests bring valuable insight from their journeys into the land development industry—Nathan as a third-generation leader in a family business, and Adam through his path from intern to president at R&R Real Estate Advisors.

Nathan shares his experience growing up around real estate but taking time to explore other industries like insurance and banking before joining the family company. He also discusses the value of his finance background and his recent completion of a master’s degree in real estate development from Iowa State University. Adam talks about his early days as an intern, working his way up through hard work, and how building relationships and maintaining a positive attitude helped shape his career. He offers advice to those looking to step into leadership roles within the real estate world.

The conversation also highlights the evolution of R&R Realty over the past 40 years. They discuss the company’s focus on long-term ownership, its unique approach to property management and development, and how they’ve adapted to new trends in both the office and industrial markets. One standout project is the Arcadia building redevelopment, where R&R transformed a former single-tenant space into a modern multi-tenant property featuring daycare, fitness, and collaborative spaces.

Additional details on this episode, including info on our guest can be found on the show notes page: https://letsgroov.com/podcast/adapting-office-and-industrial-spaces-for-todays-tenants.  

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In this episode of The Land Development Podcast, Ryan Glick is joined by co-host Charles Covey to break down some of the biggest news shaping land development today. They kick things off with a look at the Federal Reserve’s current strategy. With Jerome Powell signaling patience on interest rate cuts, Ryan and Charles discuss how geopolitical factors, tariffs, and mixed economic data are keeping the Fed in wait-and-see mode. They explore how this uncertainty could impact the housing market, lending, and development projects in the months ahead.

Next, the conversation shifts to Texas, where the state legislature is pushing for major zoning reforms. Charles shares his insider take on Senate Bill 15, which would allow for smaller starter homes in new subdivisions across larger Texas cities. They cover what this means for affordability, home builders, and local government control. Charles also gives an update on other key housing bills moving through the session, including changes to plan approvals that could speed up development timelines.

In the third segment, they tackle recent reports suggesting the multi-family sector may offer some of the best buying opportunities in years. While demand is expected to rise as homeownership becomes less affordable, Charles points out that not all markets are created equal. They break down which areas are stabilizing, which are still at risk, and why investors need to stay cautious when underwriting deals.

Before wrapping up, Ryan reminds listeners to follow The Land Development Podcast on its newly launched social media pages. They also celebrate the show’s rise to the top of search results on Spotify and Apple Podcasts—thanks to listener support. 

All links to the articles discussed during this episode can be found on the show notes page: https://letsgroov.com/podcast/industry-news-fed-awaits-clarity-on-trump-policies-texas-senate-taking-action-on-housing-and-multifamily-opportunities.  

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In this episode of The Land Development Podcast, host Ryan Glick sits down with Doug Moreland, principal at Moreland Capital Partners, to discuss his journey through the real estate industry. Doug shares how he transitioned from marine biology aspirations to a long and successful career in land development, spending nearly two decades at real estate firm Hines before striking out on his own.

Doug dives into the details of his latest project, Marea, a 67-lot luxury coastal development in Rockport, Texas. He explains how thoughtful design, strategic planning, and an emphasis on placemaking can elevate a project’s value. He also shares insights on market research, entitlement challenges, and the complexities of going out on your own in the real estate world.

Beyond his current work, Doug touches on broader industry shifts, including the increasing role of homebuilders in land acquisition and the evolving challenges of real estate cycles. He also highlights a critical issue that will shape the future of coastal development: rising sea levels and the need for innovative public-private solutions.

Additional details on this episode, including info on our guest can be found on the show notes page: https://letsgroov.com/podcast/the-future-of-coastal-development-and-rising-challenges.  

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In this episode of The Land Development Podcast, Ryan Glick and co-host Charles Covey dive into the latest real estate and development news shaping the industry. They kick off with a discussion on the HUD budget cuts under the current administration, breaking down what these changes mean for funding, government spending, and the future of housing initiatives.

Next, they tackle the ongoing debate around corporate real estate ownership, particularly in the single-family housing market. With big players like BlackRock frequently mentioned in discussions, Ryan and Charles bring clarity to the real numbers behind institutional ownership and whether it’s truly impacting affordability.

The conversation then shifts to the self-storage industry, which has seen a slowdown after years of rapid growth. Charles shares insights into how this sector has performed historically, why some investors are pulling back, and what’s next for self-storage development. They also explore the rapid housing growth in North Texas, particularly in Collin County, and discuss the gap in middle-market housing that needs to be addressed.

Finally, they close out the episode by discussing looming tariffs on steel and aluminum and their potential impact on home construction. While some fear rising costs and slower development, Charles shares why he believes these concerns may be overblown in certain markets. Tune in for a well-rounded discussion on the latest trends shaping land development today.

All links to the articles discussed during this episode can be found on the show notes page: https://letsgroov.com/podcast/industry-news-hud-budget-cuts-self-storage-rent-stabilization-north-texas-housing-growth-concerns-over-tariffs. 

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In this episode of The Land Development Podcast, Ryan sits down with Jason Jones and Ryan Sweeney, from Liberty 3D, a company in the 3D printed home space. Both Jason and Ryan come from military backgrounds and transitioned into real estate, bringing with them a strong work ethic, problem-solving skills, and a drive to innovate.

We explore their journey into real estate, the challenges they faced introducing 3D printing into home construction, and why they believe this technology is the future of sustainable, cost-effective housing. They break down how the 3D printing process works, why it’s different from traditional building methods, and how it can help tackle housing affordability and sustainability issues.

Jason and Ryan also share details about their Rockdale, Texas project, a three-phase development aiming to bring 3D-printed homes to a town that hasn’t seen new construction in years. They discuss how they’re working with local leadership, the impact of Samsung’s expansion nearby, and how they’re addressing rental housing shortages in the area.

Additional details on this episode, including info on our guest can be found on the show notes page: https://letsgroov.com/podcast/rethinking-housing-with-3d-printed-homes. 

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In this industry news-focused episode of The Land Development Podcast, host Ryan Glick is joined by co-host Charles Covey to break down some of the biggest headlines affecting the land development world. They start by discussing the appointment of Scott Turner as the new Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and what his plans for GSE privatization and potential departmental changes could mean for the industry.

The conversation then shifts to the ongoing challenges with California wildfires and the debate over whether federal aid should come with conditions. Ryan and Charles discuss the constitutional implications, the role of state versus federal government, and practical solutions for better wildfire management in the future.

Finally, they dive into the potential impact of new tariffs on Canadian lumber, which could significantly raise costs for homebuilders and developers. Charles shares insights on the domestic lumber supply, strategies for mitigating risks through futures contracts, and what these changes might mean for housing affordability in the near future.

All links to the articles discussed during this episode can be found on the show notes page: https://letsgroov.com/podcast/industry-news-privatization-of-fannie-and-freddie-california-wildfires-update-and-trump-tariffs-impact-on-lumber.  

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In this episode of The Land Development Podcast, Ryan sits down with Jack Rowe, a land development expert based in North Texas. Jack shares his path into the industry, starting with architecture school before discovering his passion for real estate development. He explains how his experiences in Barcelona and working with developers in McKinney shaped his understanding of placemaking and urban design.

The conversation dives into missing middle housing—a term used to describe the housing options between single-family homes and large apartment complexes. Jack breaks down why these types of housing are so rare today, how zoning laws have made them difficult to build, and why they could be key to solving housing affordability issues. He also discusses the need for zoning reform, highlighting examples of cities like Minneapolis and Portland that have taken steps toward allowing more diverse housing types.

Ryan and Jack also explore the importance of walkability in communities, explaining why wide streets and suburban zoning often create car-dependent neighborhoods. Jack argues that successful cities evolve over time, with policies that allow for incremental changes in density and land use. They discuss how policies like eliminating parking minimums could open up more opportunities for small developers and ultimately create more vibrant, livable spaces.

Additional details on this episode, including info on our guest can be found on the show notes page: https://letsgroov.com/podcast/missing-middle-housing-and-zoning-reform.

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In this industry news episode of The Land Development Podcast, host Ryan Glick is joined by co-host Charles Covey to discuss the latest land development industry news. The conversation starts with a Fox Business feature on affordable housing solutions, focusing on regulations, federal loans, and tax credits proposed by real estate expert Larry Connor. Ryan and Charles weigh in on the feasibility of these suggestions, exploring the balance of federal versus state influence in reducing housing costs.

Next, they analyze a report from Globe Street on the growing disparity between single-family rental (SFR) and multi-family rental markets. With SFR rents outpacing multi-family rents, they explore why this trend exists and its implications for the Build-to-Rent (BTR) sector. Charles draws from his own experiences in the industry to explain why single-family rentals continue to dominate despite high interest rates and economic uncertainty.

Finally, they dive into a MarketWatch report about the Trump administration's proposed efforts to downsize the federal real estate footprint. Ryan and Charles debate whether selling or terminating office leases could truly make a significant budgetary impact and discuss the potential ripple effects on local real estate markets.

All links to the articles discussed during this episode can be found on the show notes page: https://letsgroov.com/podcast/industry-news-addressing-affordability-issues-sfr-vs-multifamily-performance-and-government-real-estate. 

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Ryan sits down with Tim Early, associate professor and coordinator of the Master of Land and Property Development (MLPD) Program at Texas A&M University. With over 30 years of experience in land acquisition, residential development, and consulting, Tim’s journey from a successful career in the real estate industry to shaping the next generation of developers is truly inspiring.

Tim shares his personal path, starting with his first steps in real estate during the challenging economic climate of the late 1980s. He recounts his transition from industry roles to academia, driven by a passion for giving back and preparing students with the skills that matter most. From infill development to master-planned communities, Tim’s experience informs his approach to teaching.

The conversation highlights the unique aspects of the MLPD program, which emphasizes practical, real-world education. Tim explains how the program combines rigorous coursework with hands-on learning, including reading construction plans, understanding contracts, and mastering finance. Whether online or in-person, students gain a comprehensive understanding of the entire real estate process, from inception to disposition.

Additional details on this episode, including info on our guest can be found on the show notes page: https://letsgroov.com/podcast/educating-the-next-generation-of-land-developers.

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In the first industry news episode of 2025, Ryan Glick and Charles Covey discuss the latest headlines impacting land development. They begin with the booming data center market and how advancements in AI are driving this niche real estate sector. With long-term leases and unique site requirements, Ryan and Charles explore whether data centers are a viable opportunity for most developers or a risky overbuild waiting to happen.

Next, the conversation shifts to nearshoring and its transformative impact on U.S.-Mexico trade and logistics. As manufacturers move closer to the U.S., they discuss how this trend is reshaping industrial land use and the potential challenges posed by geopolitical tensions, including the threat of tariffs.

The episode then turns to California's devastating wildfires, which have caused billions in damages and worsened the nation's housing affordability crisis. Ryan and Charles analyze the implications for land markets, migration patterns, and nationwide insurance premiums, emphasizing the role of effective leadership and disaster preparedness.

Finally, they offer their perspectives on the broader geopolitical landscape, touching on intriguing ideas like potential U.S. territorial expansions. They wrap up with a reminder of the opportunities within the land development space, despite the challenges of an eventful start to the year.

All links to the articles discussed during this episode can be found on the show notes page: https://letsgroov.com/podcast/industry-news-data-center-opportunities-latest-on-potential-mexican-tarrifs-california-wildfires-impact-on-housing.

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In this episode of The Land Development Podcast, host Ryan Glick sits down with Felipe Castillo, partner at PlaceMKR, to discuss his path into real estate development. Felipe shares how his early ambitions to become an architect evolved into a passion for development after gaining exposure to the broader aspects of the industry. His story highlights the influence of military service on his work ethic and leadership style.

Felipe takes listeners through the intricacies of land development, from rezoning to managing investor relationships. With over 30 successful rezonings under his belt, he emphasizes the importance of engaging with local communities and understanding the political landscape to secure project approvals. His insights into raising capital, balancing project complexity, and driving revenue provide valuable lessons for both new and experienced developers.

One of the standout discussions revolves around Felipe’s involvement in redeveloping the iconic Backyard venue in Bee Cave, originally started by Willie Nelson. Felipe explains how his team is transforming the site into a vibrant mixed-use destination while preserving its rich history. This project underscores his philosophy of blending creativity with practical development strategies.

Additional details on this episode, including info on our guest can be found on the show notes page: https://letsgroov.com/podcast/from-military-discipline-to-real-estate-success.

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As we wrap up 2024 and head into the new year, Ryan and Charles Covey join for a reflective and forward-looking episode of The Land Development Podcast. This special New Year’s Eve edition takes a break from regular industry news to dive into the major themes that shaped land development over the past year and explore what lies ahead in 2025.

Ryan and Charles discuss the impact of fluctuating interest rates, inflation, and economic uncertainty, as well as the optimism that has grown in recent months as projects gain traction and funding becomes more accessible. They share personal experiences of how their businesses navigated the challenging landscape of 2024, from creative land acquisition strategies to the evolving role of technology and AI in real estate.

A recurring theme throughout the year was the burden of red tape and regulation, which developers consistently flagged as a significant barrier. As Ryan notes, reducing these obstacles will be a key focus for 2025, with states like Texas and Florida already making moves toward deregulation. Charles adds insights on how the market is shifting, predicting growth in BTR (Build to Rent) and single-family development, while acknowledging the ongoing challenges in multifamily housing.

This episode also touches on personal milestones and reflections, making it not only an industry-focused discussion but also a look at the year from a more personal perspective. As we gear up for 2025, the conversation leaves listeners with insights, optimism, and practical takeaways for tackling the opportunities ahead in land development.

All links to the articles discussed during this episode can be found on the show notes page: https://letsgroov.com/podcast/challenges-wins-and-the-road-ahead-for-land-developers. 

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2024 was a big year for the Land Development Podcast. With 51 episodes released and 34 interviews, there’s been no shortage of insights, lessons, and great conversations. In this compilation episode, Ryan takes a look back at some moments from the year.

Throughout the episode, you’ll hear clips from a variety of guests who have shared their experiences, advice, and lessons learned in the land development and real estate industries. From discussions about patience in the development process to the importance of strong partnerships and community engagement, this recap highlights the core themes that emerged in 2024.

Additional details on this episode, including info on our guest can be found on the show notes page: https://letsgroov.com/podcast/highlights-and-insights-from-2024-episodes. 

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In this episode of The Land Development Podcast, host Ryan Glick and co-host Charles Covey analyze recent insights into the commercial real estate (CRE) market’s trajectory heading into 2025, with a focus on distressed assets, institutional investments, and opportunities for cash holders in the current landscape.

Next, they dive into a proposal to colocate data centers at nuclear power plants, examining the implications for energy policy, A.I. infrastructure, and the challenges posed by government regulation. With A.I. data centers consuming massive amounts of energy, this innovative solution could help address power shortages—but not without hurdles.

Finally, they tackle predictions for the housing market in 2025, including potential policy changes from the incoming Trump administration. From reducing regulations to increasing housing supply, they discuss the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead for developers and homeowners alike.

All links to the articles discussed during this episode can be found on the show notes page: https://letsgroov.com/podcast/industry-news-cre-optimism-for-2025-data-center-power-for-ai-trump-expectations.  

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In this episode of The Land Development Podcast, Ryan sits down with JC Hearn, CEO of JCH Equity and a seasoned land and commercial real estate broker. JC reflects on his upbringing in rural Kansas and how it shaped his work ethic and eventual passion for real estate. From single-family homes to large-scale syndications, his journey underscores the power of persistence, lifelong learning, and strategic networking.

JC walks listeners through the significance of designations like CCIM and ALC, offering insights into their rigorous requirements and how they’ve contributed to his success. He also sheds light on the value of partnerships in scaling investments, emphasizing the importance of aligning values and building trust with collaborators.

The conversation shifts to how JC’s faith and commitment to family influence his business philosophy and leadership style. Whether through mentoring others, creating educational resources, or leveraging his expertise for impactful projects, JC demonstrates that success is about more than financial gains—it's about meaningful contributions to others.

Additional details on this episode, including info on our guest can be found on the show notes page: https://letsgroov.com/podcast/advocating-for-housing-solutions-in-texas.

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In this episode of The Land Development Podcast, host Ryan Glick is joined by co-host Charles Covey to discuss the latest industry news affecting land development and housing. The episode kicks off with a discussion on President-Elect Donald Trump’s proposed tariffs on goods from Mexico, Canada, and China, examining their potential ripple effects on the economy and development sector. Charles shares his perspective on whether these tariffs are strategic moves for negotiation or harbingers of higher costs in the industry.

Next, Ryan and Charles pivot to the challenges facing commercial real estate, particularly refinancing in today’s high-interest environment. With $950 billion in CRE loans maturing in 2024, they discuss the potential for defaults, the banks' increasing reserves, and what this could mean for both office spaces and multifamily properties.

The conversation then turns to President Trump’s nomination of Scott Turner as HUD Secretary. Ryan and Charles dive into Turner’s background, from his NFL career to his leadership in the Opportunity Zones initiative, and what his appointment might signal for federal housing strategies.

Finally, the hosts touch on how state-level policies, especially in Texas, could shape development in the years ahead. With a legislative session on the horizon, they highlight the growing push to streamline regulatory processes and promote housing affordability.

All links to the articles discussed during this episode can be found on the show notes page: https://letsgroov.com/podcast/industry-news-tariffs-on-china-mexico-canada-cre-refinance-concerns-trump-nominates-scott-turner.

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This milestone episode of The Land Development Podcast celebrates one year of weekly conversations with industry leaders and influencers. Host Ryan Glick sits down with JD Hale, Director of Government Affairs at the Texas Association of Builders, for a deep dive into housing policy, advocacy, and the vital role of land development in Texas' booming economy.

JD recounts his path from a small-town upbringing to Washington, D.C., where he first discovered his passion for public service and policy. His experiences on Capitol Hill, including working for Senator John Cornyn, laid the foundation for his current role in advocating for Texas homebuilders. JD discusses the importance of grassroots connections, the intricacies of Texas' political landscape, and how he helps builders navigate evolving regulations.

The conversation covers the challenges and opportunities developers face as Texas welcomes over 1,200 new residents daily. JD highlights the importance of affordable housing, regulatory changes, and how developers can influence policy by getting involved at the local and state levels. He also addresses the impact of recent elections and previews key issues likely to dominate the upcoming legislative session.

Whether you’re a developer, builder, or industry observer, this episode offers a comprehensive look at how housing policy intersects with Texas' rapid growth. JD's insights remind listeners of the power of advocacy and the critical role the building industry plays in shaping the future.

Additional details on this episode, including info on our guest can be found on the show notes page: https://letsgroov.com/podcast/advocating-for-housing-solutions-in-texas.

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In today’s episode, Ryan is joined by co-host Charles Covey for analysis of the recent election and its potential impacts on the housing market. With a new administration on the horizon, there are many changes expected in the real estate industry. Charles shares his perspective on three major topics that could shape the future of land development: deregulation, the construction workforce, and tariffs.

The discussion kicks off with Trump’s proposals to slash regulations that drive up housing costs. While deregulation could reduce costs, Charles points out the challenges of implementing changes at the federal level due to local and state regulations. He offers insights on why a collaborative approach between states and a dedicated housing czar could be a game-changer in tackling red tape in land development.

Next, they explore the impact of immigration policies on the construction workforce. With 31% of construction workers being immigrants, Charles explains the potential risks of mass deportations and how that could disrupt the industry. He emphasizes the need for better immigration programs that streamline processes and support the workforce that is essential to keeping housing costs manageable.

The third topic focuses on tariffs and their implications for building costs. Charles weighs in on Trump’s proposed tariffs on raw building materials and how this could drive up prices for homebuyers. However, he remains cautiously optimistic, noting that lower taxes could offset some of the increased costs, potentially leading to a net positive outcome for the American consumer.

In the spirit of Veterans Day, Ryan highlights the efforts of the Gary Sinise Foundation in building mortgage-free homes for veterans. They reflect on the challenges veterans face, particularly in finding stable housing, and applaud organizations that are making a tangible difference in their lives.

All links to the articles discussed during this episode can be found on the show notes page: https://letsgroov.com/podcast/industry-news-trumps-plan-for-housing-fed-cuts-rates-building-homes-for-veterans.

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In this episode of The Land Development Podcast, host Ryan Glick sits down with Randy Hall, CEO of Windy Hill Development. Randy shares his journey in real estate, starting in the early '80s in Dallas and moving on to Houston, where he made his mark with landmark projects like Marina Del Sol.

Randy discusses the lessons he learned early on, such as the importance of persistence and not underselling yourself. He recounts his experience as a young developer navigating the savings and loan crisis, including a nerve-wracking pitch to a room full of bankers. Despite the setbacks and market crashes, his ability to adapt and seize opportunities set the foundation for his successful career.

The conversation dives into Randy’s current work at Windy Hill Development, where he focuses on creating boutique, entry-level communities in the Houston area. He explains why Houston remains an attractive market, the importance of face-to-face interactions in land deals, and why he specializes in projects aimed at first-time homebuyers.

Randy also shares practical advice for aspiring developers and landowners. He emphasizes the importance of choosing the right partners, being patient with investments, and doing thorough due diligence before purchasing land. With decades of experience and a wealth of knowledge, Randy’s insights offer valuable lessons for anyone involved in real estate.

Additional details on this episode, including info on our guest can be found on the show notes page: https://letsgroov.com/podcast/importance-of-persistence-in-land-development.

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In this episode of The Land Development Podcast, Ryan Glick and co-host Charles Covey discuss the current landscape of land development with a focus on key topics shaping the industry. They start with a reminder about Election Day and its potential impact on the real estate and land development world. Charles and Ryan encourage listeners to get involved, stressing that the election could play a critical role in future regulations, policies, and industry trends.

The conversation then turns to mortgage rates, which have been climbing for five consecutive weeks, reaching levels that deter both buyers and sellers from entering the market. Charles and Ryan analyze the data and trends, including how rates are influencing market behavior and affecting the availability of affordable housing. Charles also shares his perspective on the cyclical impact of elections on interest rates, highlighting how these political shifts often translate into market adjustments in the months following an election.

The hosts dig into affordable housing, pointing out that rents under $1,000 are rapidly disappearing, particularly in larger cities. They explain why this sub-$1,000 rental market is shrinking and examine the impact of prolonged inflation and slowed construction. Charles discusses the financial and regulatory obstacles facing developers who aim to build affordable housing. They agree that while $1,000 rentals are theoretically possible, current market and regulatory pressures make it economically unfeasible for many developers to pursue projects at this price point.

In the final segment, Charles and Ryan explore Texas-specific challenges, especially the role of zoning in the state’s housing crisis. They highlight the need for zoning reform and discuss potential state legislation that could ease housing shortages by increasing density options. Charles explains how zoning limitations, particularly in major Texas cities, restrict the development of affordable housing types. As the Texas legislature gears up to tackle this issue, they ponder what reforms might mean for developers and residents alike.

All links to the articles discussed during this episode can be found on the show notes page: https://letsgroov.com/podcast/industry-news-mortgage-rates-rise-affordability-concerns-with-apartments-call-for-zoning-reform-in-texas.

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In this episode of The Land Development Podcast, host Ryan Glick sits down with Michael Wayne, the principal at Detroit Riverside Capital. Michael shares his path from consulting to real estate development, detailing how he made the transition from a traditional 9-to-5 role into full-time entrepreneurship. Michael’s story starts with a major infill project in downtown Auburn Hills. He talks about the early hurdles of pitching investors for his first deal and how surrounding himself with knowledgeable industry partners was key to his success.

Michael dives into the intricacies of launching a development business, emphasizing the importance of leveraging existing networks, especially when sourcing contractors, architects, and engineers. He outlines the challenges of navigating regulatory requirements and building long-term relationships with investors. Throughout the conversation, Michael offers insights into what it takes to maintain and grow a successful real estate business, along with his focus on scaling projects that are repeatable and adaptable across regions.

The episode also explores Michael’s approach to risk-taking, particularly when securing funding and managing construction projects. He discusses how his company shifted from mixed-use urban developments to suburban multifamily projects, targeting empty nesters and other demographics seeking maintenance-free living options.

Additional details on this episode, including info on our guest can be found on the show notes page: https://letsgroov.com/podcast/building-a-repeatable-model-for-success-in-land-development.    

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In this episode of The Land Development Podcast, hosts Ryan Glick and Charles Covey discuss Florida’s real estate market following the recent hurricanes. The conversation highlights how attractive policies and a warmer climate continue to draw residents and businesses, despite risks.

The focus then shifts to the Federal Reserve’s recent rate cut and its implications. With caution emphasized by Fed officials, Ryan and Charles analyze how potential interest rate reductions could influence economic growth and the real estate sector, especially as it relates to development timelines and market expectations.

Next, the discussion moves to the pause in Dallas-Fort Worth's office construction—a trend not seen since 2010. The hosts examine what this means for developers, tenants, and future leasing activities, noting a strong shift toward high-quality, mixed-use spaces.

Wrapping up, the episode touches on Amazon's new return-to-office mandate, exploring how this decision could set a precedent for other companies and potentially reshape the real estate landscape.

All links to the articles discussed during this episode can be found on the show notes page: https://letsgroov.com/podcast/industry-news-florida-real-estate-hurricanes-feds-rate-plan-for-nov-dec-office-construction-slowdown-dfw. 

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In this episode of the Land Development Podcast, Ryan Glick interviews Dr. Lee Newton, an optometrist and real estate developer. Dr. Newton talks about his journey from being an eye doctor to becoming an active real estate investor. Starting with small investments in residential properties, he shares how his frustration with the typical tenants and toilets model pushed him towards commercial development.

Dr. Newton explains how necessity drove him to acquire his general contractor’s license when developing his own office building, and from there, he became more immersed in the world of real estate development. He highlights his experiences working on various commercial projects, including a building he developed with partners in Bay City, Michigan, and how he navigated challenges like soil issues and rising costs during construction.

A significant portion of the conversation focuses on value engineering, a practice Dr. Newton advocates for, which allows developers to find cost-efficient solutions without sacrificing quality. He also shares insights into his current work, including a residential duplex project and his vision for future build-to-rent projects. His approach of combining professional expertise with hands-on involvement in real estate offers valuable lessons for other professionals looking to diversify into property investment.

Listeners will appreciate Dr. Newton’s practical advice on finding the right partners, scaling projects, and managing development costs. Whether you’re a seasoned developer or someone exploring real estate investment as a side venture, this episode provides great insights and inspiration for taking the next step.

Additional details on this episode, including info on our guest, can be found on the show notes page: https://letsgroov.com/podcast/real-estate-development-strategies-for-doctors-and-other-professionals.