From Flips to Sustainable Builds: Keith’s Real Estate Journey Rooted in Resilience and Innovation
On this episode of The Deal Scout, host Susan Reilly sits down with real estate investor and entrepreneur Keith, whose journey from a childhood on the Jersey Shore to becoming a sustainability-focused builder in Florida is filled with grit, reinvention, and strategic thinking.
Keith’s early exposure to real estate came from his parents, who flipped vacation rentals in the 1980s. That hands-on experience laid the foundation for his passion for real estate and entrepreneurship. After college, Keith worked as a sales engineer, but the pull of property investment led him to flip homes in Atlanta during the early 2000s. Then came the 2008 housing crash—and a pivotal moment in Keith’s career. Faced with financial risk on a million-dollar build near Atlanta’s Piedmont Park, Keith made a bold decision to finish the project and sell, ultimately escaping unscathed and even profiting.
Susan and Keith dig into how that defining moment shaped his investment philosophy—one rooted in risk analysis, market timing, and resilience. Keith shares the evolution of his strategy, including how he now builds using steel framing and magnesium oxide board—materials chosen initially for cost-efficiency but that have proven to be eco-friendly, hypoallergenic, and fire-resistant. His projects now attract interest from funds focused on sustainability, even though that wasn’t his original intent.
He also breaks down his approach to sourcing deals: from networking with agents and finding off-market opportunities, to identifying overlooked MLS listings and creatively solving zoning and entitlement challenges. Keith’s team of trusted experts—contractors, engineers, former city officials, and even a former NFL player—enables him to tackle projects others won’t touch.
The episode closes on a personal note, highlighting Keith’s passion for fatherhood and how his 13-year-old son inspires and grounds him in his mission to build better, healthier homes.
Whether you're a seasoned investor or just entering the world of real estate, this episode is packed with valuable insights on market timing, building smart, and thinking beyond the blueprint.
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Susan Reilly is a licensed real estate broker, but this podcast is not a substitute for professional advice. We strongly recommend that you consult with a qualified financial advisor, legal counsel, and tax professional before making any financial decisions or taking any actions based on the information provided in this podcast.