06/17/2025 - From Flips to Freedom: Smarter Systems, Stronger Partnerships, and Scaling with Purpose

On this Elevate Support Call, Ben Phillips shared his journey from flipping to wholesaling, highlighting strategies for scaling while prioritizing family and passive income. The group discussed challenges of working with spouses, contractor communication, budgeting, and the use of AI and CRM tools to streamline operations. Practical insights were offered on transitioning business models, team building, and leveraging tech in real estate.

Ben Phillips shared his journey from deep debt to building a $1.5M/year business, transitioning from flips to wholesaling while prioritizing family. He emphasized time management, ROI, and passive income streams like lending and oil & gas.

Jason expressed interest in wholesaling over flipping; Ben advised assessing strengths and starting with cold calling due to low cost and effectiveness. Osbaldo raised challenges of flipping with his spouse, including contractor communication and stress. Ben and Rocky stressed clear role definitions to avoid conflict and increase efficiency in family-run businesses.

Practical tools were also discussed: Ben uses QuickBooks for budget tracking and recommends weekly financial reviews, adding contingencies and systemizing project oversight. He also highlighted AI’s role in construction management, using tools like ChatGPT for budgeting and planning.

The conversation closed with insights on team structure (2 sales reps + TC), CRM systems (Podio), and finding commercial deals (Crexie, LoopNet). Lending options without seasoning requirements were also briefly covered.