Michael Blank’s Apartment Building Investing Podcast: Eddie Lorin on Impact Investing and Changing People’s Lives
Eddie Lorin discusses impact investing and changing people’s lives with Michael Blank’s Apartment Building Investing Podcast, Episode 98. In it, Eddie shares his vision for Impact Housing and the critical need for clean, affordable housing for the working class. He explains the concept of impact investing, discussing how he takes care of people ‘where they live’ by way of Class A amenities and on-site programming. Eddie speaks to his expectations for third-party property managers, describing the art and science of building a community. Listen in as Eddie offers the business argument for his model and learn how to do well by doing good.
Key Takeaways
Eddie’s vision for Impact Housing
- Changing people’s lives where they live
- Safe, affordable housing for working class
- Tenants stay, pay and refer friends
The concept of impact investing
- Doing business for a purpose
- Millennials leading paradigm shift
- Working poor in distressed areas
What’s different about Impact Housing
- Focus on resident rather than deal
- Treat tenants with dignity, respect
- Provide Class A amenities
How Eddie takes care of his residents
- Signage, pool and fitness center
- Health, wellness classes
- Create sense of community
What Eddie requires of third-party property managers
- Budget set aside for activities, amenities
- Respond to work orders within 48 hours
- Build relationships with tenants
The business argument for Eddie’s model
- Big demand for affordable housing
- Safe, defensive investment
What Eddie’s looking forward to
- Deal in Maryland (townhomes)
- Environmental, social and financial return