How to Buy and Sell Multifamily Real Estate in Florida: Proven Strategies, Expert Tips & Investor Loan Solutions

Are you looking for ways to build wealth through real estate investment? Are you interested in the multifamily real estate market but unsure where to start? In Episode 11 of our podcast "Everything About Wealth" (available on YouTube), my partner Desiree Troncoso and I had the pleasure of interviewing Joe LaFleur, an expert real estate broker and partner at 100units.com. With over $200 million in closed transactions, Joe shared invaluable insights on working with real estate brokers, buying and selling properties, and seizing opportunities in today’s market—particularly for the Latino community in the U.S. seeking financial stability. This article highlights the key takeaways from that conversation, expanded with practical information to help you maximize your next property investment.

Why Multifamily Real Estate Is a Great Opportunity

Multifamily real estate is a powerful vehicle for generating wealth, and Joe explained why. Unlike other property types, such as commercial or single-family homes, multifamily properties offer unique advantages. One major reason is government support for affordable housing. Programs like those from Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac subsidize investors, ensuring affordable housing remains profitable. This is especially relevant for the Latino community in the U.S., where economic stability and housing access are top priorities.

Joe emphasized that even during tough economic times, like the 2008 Great Recession, multifamily properties outperformed other assets. Why? Because “everyone needs a place to sleep.” Even if businesses close or jobs are lost, housing demand remains steady. This resilience makes multifamily real estate investment a safe bet for those seeking passive income and long-term growth.

The Role of Real Estate Brokers in Your Investment Strategy

Partnering with an experienced real estate broker like Joe can be the difference between a successful investment and a missed opportunity. Joe explained that his primary role is to act as a “matchmaker” between buyers and sellers. If you’re selling, the broker finds the ideal buyer based on your goals; if you’re buying, they connect you with properties that fit your budget and objectives.

For buyers, Joe recommends thorough preparation before diving in. This includes consulting lenders to explore investor loan options, such as DSCR (Debt Service Coverage Ratio) loans or rental property loans, available through trusted partners like Coso Cap. He also suggests educating yourself: read books, talk to other property owners, and, if possible, team up with someone experienced. At CosoCap.com, we offer personalized advisory services to guide you through this process and secure the right financing—whether it’s an FHA loan, conventional loan, or one tailored for foreign investors.

Common Mistakes When You Buy and Sell Multifamily Properties

Joe identified two key mistakes new investors often make when they buy and sell multifamily properties:

Wasting Time: Time is gold in the world of multifamily real estate. Many spend hours researching without submitting offers, stalling their progress. Joe advises: if you’ve analyzed a property (comps, rents, proforma), make an offer. There’s no “wrong” offer; it simply reflects what the property is worth to you.
Jumping in Unprepared: Diving into an unfamiliar market without experience or support can spell disaster. The fix is straightforward: seek mentors or partners and learn before you leap.

These tips are particularly helpful for the Latino community, where fear of the unknown can sometimes hold us back. The key is informed action.

Current Opportunities in Affordable Housing

With cap rates dropping and competition rising, where are the opportunities? Joe is bullish on affordable housing. In areas like Central Florida, new construction focuses on luxury Class A properties, leaving a gap in the low-rent segment (two bedrooms for under $1,000/month). With limited supply and growing demand, rents in this sector are poised to rise.

Moreover, rising minimum wages and economic growth will benefit affordable housing tenants, giving them more purchasing power. This means, as an investor, you can upgrade your properties and boost rents without losing occupancy. Joe also noted that locking in long-term debt now, with rates still reasonable, is a smart move to leverage future inflation.

Is Buying with No Money Down Realistic?

Seminars often hype “0% interest” or “no money down” deals. Joe was blunt: these are rarities. In over a decade, he’s seen maybe one or two cases, like master leases. He likened it to winning the lottery: possible, but unlikely. To close a deal, you need capital—yours or from investors. At Coso Cap, we offer solutions like bridge loans or hard money loans to ease your market entry, but we always recommend having “skin in the game” to stay committed.

Selling Your Property: When and How?

If you’re considering selling, Joe suggests evaluating your goals. The market is hot now, but is it the right time? If your property has completed its cycle (say, 5-10 years), selling now lets you lock in gains in a strong market. However, if you prefer to hold, refinancing with long-term debt can maximize cash flow.

When choosing a broker, ask these questions:

What’s your sales track record?
Which comparable properties have you sold?
Who will handle my listing directly?
Is your list price realistic?

Avoid listing on your own via sites like 10x unless you need a quick, desperate sale. The information lingers online and can weaken your future position.

Alternatives to Selling: Tenants in Common

Joe shared a lesser-known gem: tenants in common (TIC) arrangements. If you sell and can’t find another property right away, you can defer taxes by investing in a TIC, such as a triple net lease property fund. This offers liquidity and flexibility to reinvest later. It’s an option we explore at CosoCap.com for our clients.

Resources for Investors

Joe recommended books like Timing the Real Estate Market by Craig Hall and Factfulness by Hans Rosling, offering practical and global insights. For more info or to connect with Joe, visit 100units.com. If you’re seeking a reliable lending partner, contact us at Coso Cap at (407) 203-9599 or explore our investor loan options.

Conclusion

Investing in multifamily real estate is a proven path to building wealth, especially for the Latino community in the U.S. With guidance from experts like Joe LaFleur and the right support, you can avoid pitfalls, seize opportunities like affordable housing, and make informed decisions about buying, selling, or financing. At Coso Capital, we’re here to assist with smart loans and personalized advice. Ready to take the next step? Reach out today and let’s start building your future.