Looking Outside of New York City for Lessons on RE Investing—and Smarter Homebuying

What does it mean to “buy smart” in today’s real estate market? For some, it’s about scoring a low mortgage rate or negotiating the best possible deal. For others, it’s all about the location. But for real estate investor and former physical therapist Lee Yoder, the smartest purchase is one that offers two things: long-term value and a deeper sense of home.

In a recent episode of The Pursuit of Home, host Scott Harris sat down with Lee to explore his journey from healthcare to real estate and how his investing mindset is shaping his family’s next home. What unfolded was more than a how-to on flipping houses; it was a conversation about patience, priorities, and the power of owning assets in an unpredictable economy.

Starting Small, Scaling Smart

Lee didn’t start his real estate journey with a multimillion-dollar property or flashy business plan. He began modestly, flipping a single house, learning as he went, and slowly building the confidence to take on larger deals. From that first flip, he moved to a duplex, then a 16-unit apartment building. This deliberate progression enabled him to develop his skills, establish a track record, and ultimately launch his own firm: Threefold Real Estate Investing.

The takeaway? You don’t need to start big. In fact, you shouldn’t. For aspiring homeowners, this approach is especially relevant in today’s market. You don’t need to buy your “forever home” right out of the gate. Like Lee, you can start with something imperfect, add value, and grow into something greater over time.

“People want to jump into the deep end,” Lee says. “But there’s a lot of learning in working your way up. That’s where the real foundation gets built.”

Why C-Class Properties Deserve a Second Look

Not every house needs to be turnkey. Some of the best deals are often hidden in plain sight, especially in what investors refer to as C-class properties. These are homes in solid, often well-located neighborhoods that need work. Maybe they have outdated kitchens, old carpet, or deferred maintenance. But with the right mindset, they can offer significant value for buyers willing to put in the effort.

Lee explains that C-class properties are often in school-friendly areas with stable infrastructure but haven’t kept up with cosmetic updates. That’s where sweat equity comes in. For families on a budget who still want access to desirable communities, these homes can be a golden opportunity.

The key? Proper budgeting.

It’s not about going in blind or underestimating the work. Smart buyers need to plan for repairs and renovations upfront and understand which improvements will truly enhance livability and value.

Real Estate is a Trust Business

Lee’s success hasn’t just come from smart deals, it’s come from building trust. Whether working with investors or contractors, his strategy is the same: be transparent, stay consistent, and let results speak for themselves.

“Relationships are everything,” he shares. “If people trust you, they’ll do deals with you. If they don’t, it doesn’t matter how good the numbers look.”

For everyday buyers, this mindset is critical. Choosing the right real estate agent, mortgage broker, or contractor can make or break a transaction, especially if you're looking at renovation-heavy properties. Ask for references. Check their track record. Make sure they’re honest about both the opportunity and the risks.

Trust takes time to build, but it pays dividends, not just in peace of mind, but in better outcomes across the board.

Home is More Than a Property, It’s a Place to Grow

While much of the episode focuses on financial strategy, the most powerful moments occur when Lee discusses what home means to him on a personal level.

“It’s all about family,” he says. “We spend the most time at our kitchen table, meals, games, and conversations. Our fireplace is there, the garden’s just outside… It’s where we relax and grow together.”

That kind of intentionality is rare and refreshing. In a world obsessed with square footage and resale value, Lee reminds us that home is a feeling as much as it is a financial decision. When searching for a place to live, it’s easy to get distracted by granite countertops or trendy finishes. But the real question should be: Does this space support how we want to live together as a family?

Owning Assets in a World of Uncertainty

Lee also touched on something every buyer should consider: the economic climate. With inflation rising and the U.S. dollar losing purchasing power, Lee is adamant that people should be focused on owning assets.

“If there’s one thing I believe,” he says, “it’s that our government is on a one-track train to devalue the currency. So you should own assets, homes, condos, land, whatever fits your situation.”

Even for buyers just looking for a primary residence, owning a home is one of the most time-tested ways to build and preserve wealth. Over the long haul, real estate tends to appreciate, and owning something tangible gives you options that renting simply doesn’t.

The Pursuit of Home Is Personal, and Possible

What sets Lee Yoder apart isn’t just his knowledge of real estate; it’s the balance he strikes between smart investing and meaningful living. His story is a powerful reminder that buying a home isn't just a transaction, it's a chance to create stability, grow your wealth, and build a life with intention.

Whether you're an aspiring investor or a first-time homebuyer, Lee's journey offers something valuable: a mindset shift. Start small. Look deeper. Trust the process. Own something real.

Above all, let your definition of home guide you.

🎧 Listen to the full episode of The Pursuit of Home with Lee Yoder:

 🎵 Apple Podcasts: https://bit.ly/4nfFgDh
🎵 Spotify: https://bit.ly/4nh5sgO
▶️ YouTube: https://bit.ly/3IcnCA4 

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Scott Harris’ book, The Pursuit of Home, is now available for pre-order 👉 https://bit.ly/thepursuitofhomebook