Discover how Cody Sperber, a real estate developer and entrepreneur, pivoted from wholesaling and flipping houses to tackling luxury home developments and commercial ventures. In this episode of the Directed IRA Podcast, Cody shares his strategies for scaling businesses, adapting to market shifts, and finding opportunities in competitive sectors. From eco-conscious developments tied to charitable causes to the booming manufactured housing market, Cody offers insights into balancing purpose-driven initiatives with financial success.
This blog will break down key insights from a recent podcast episode featuring Cody as he shares actionable strategies for wealth creation, scaling businesses, and staying ahead of market trends.
What You’ll Learn:
- How to identify opportunities in real estate development
- The benefits of niche real estate investments
- Scaling businesses with strategic planning and partnerships
- Building systems for long-term success in any industry
- How self-discipline can unlock personal and professional growth
Moving Beyond Wholesaling to Real Estate Development
Cody’s real estate journey began with wholesaling homes, a common way for new investors to break into the market. Over time, he noticed how much more profitable other players (like rehabbers) were compared to wholesalers. This realization led him to pivot into rehabbing homes, then later into real estate development.
Cody explained that building homes from scratch offered its own set of challenges but allowed more control and scalability compared to flipping older properties. By partnering with knowledgeable builders, he quickly learned the ropes and began developing single-family homes in Arizona.
Scaling with Purpose
What sets Cody apart as a developer is his commitment to creating meaningful impact. His company, Green Elephant Development, focuses on building eco-friendly homes and donates a portion of its proceeds to elephant conservation organizations like Sheldrick Wildlife Trust. This “for-purpose” approach ensures that each project aligns with long-term values while appealing to socially conscious buyers.
Adapting to Market Changes
Cody’s business strategy involves staying ahead of real estate market trends. For instance, during the economic shifts caused by COVID-19, he transitioned from single-family home developments to commercial real estate. While single-family projects are highly profitable during booming markets, they can be volatile when the market tightens.
One of Cody’s key areas of focus is identifying “niche riches.” By exploring niche opportunities like affordable housing and manufactured homes, his team has addressed critical housing shortages while maintaining attractive returns.
To learn more about how real estate works in Self-Directed IRAs, explore investing in real estate.
Built-to-Last Commercial Properties
Commercial real estate became a central element of Cody’s business strategy. Specifically, his team capitalized on opportunities with unused bank buildings as banks began downsizing and shifting from brick-and-mortar branches to digital operations. These properties, often located in high-traffic areas, were perfect for repurposing into retail or restaurant spaces.
By understanding tenant demands (such as the need for drive-thrus in restaurants) and working with city officials for zoning and permitting, Cody has successfully completed commercial development deals with popular brands like Starbucks and Chipotle.
Developments like these may often align well for investors exploring private funds through retirement funds.
Strategic Partnerships Fuel Scaling
For Cody, successful scaling hinges on building strong partnerships. One example is his collaboration with Tommy Mello, founder of a billion-dollar garage door company. Together, they’ve applied proven systems from Tommy’s world-class service operations to Cody’s flooring company, Floor Daddy.
This focus on perfecting systems before scaling ensures that customer experience remains top-notch and problems are addressed at the root level.
The Importance of Systems and Reviews
No matter the industry, feedback matters. Cody highlighted the role customer reviews play in the success of service-related businesses. His team leverages creative strategies to encourage positive reviews, like offering additional services at discounted rates purely to build brand equity.
From ensuring clear processes to tracking customer feedback, Cody embodies the philosophy that execution trumps ideas every time.
Discipline and Focus are the Ultimate Keys to Success
Throughout the podcast, Cody emphasized how personal discipline feeds directly into professional success. Whether it’s staying committed to health routines, being spiritually connected, or maintaining laser focus on priorities, he argues that success starts with the individual.
This also applies to financial discipline. If you’re considering using a Self-Directed IRA to invest in real estate, private investments, or any alternative assets, it’s essential to have a clear plan. Learn more about the types of Self-Directed IRAs that may fit your strategy.
Get Started with Self-Directed IRAs
For investors looking to diversify their retirement strategy or explore alternative assets, consider incorporating real estate or other private investments into your portfolio. Book a call with Directed IRA to get personalized assistance in opening an account or transferring your funds to a Self-Directed IRA. Visit Directed IRA to schedule a consultation today.
Final Thoughts
Cody Sperber’s insights remind us that success is a product of strategy, discipline, and purpose-driven action. Whether you’re navigating a new business venture or expanding your real estate investments, aligning your actions with long-term goals and market trends can help you stay ahead. Start small, focus on execution, and look for opportunities that resonate with your values. Your blueprint for success starts here.
For more tips and resources, visit Directed IRA’s Beginner’s Guide or explore other educational articles on our blog.