The RV Park Mastery Podcast

Simple Contract Strategies

Frank Rolfe — Fri, 08 May 2026 06:00:00 -0600

Writing a contract to buy an RV Park can be stressful – particularly if it's your first. But it doesn't have to be that way. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we're going review some practical steps and strategies to produce purchase contracts at low cost and less worry.

A Different Angle On Buying

Frank Rolfe — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 07:10:44 -0600

Most RV Park buyers simply buy the property, but some instead buy the entity. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to explore the concept of buying the entity that owns the RV Park as opposed to buying the land and improvements.

The Trends Pushing RV Parks Into Affordable Housing

Frank Rolfe — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 09:05:52 -0600

In many parts of America, RV Parks are often transitioning from temporary occupancy to permanent. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to review the American trends resulting in the conversion of many properties from temporary vacation users to full-time affordable housing customers.

Buying From Bigger Owners

Frank Rolfe — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 12:11:55 -0600

Most RV Park buyers consider any property owned by a large company to be “off - limits”, but the truth is that good buys can be derived from big players in certain circumstances. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to explore the methods and situations that making buying from larger owners attainable.

How To Survive "Deal-Killing" Attorneys

Frank Rolfe — Mon, 16 Mar 2026 16:39:53 -0600

One of the worst members of the legal profession is the attorney known as a “deal killer”. They walk the earth bringing nothing but misfortune and lost opportunities to the real estate industry – and sometimes they show up in RV Park deals. In this RV Park Mastery podcast , we’re going to review the standard methods of disarming this type of human roadblock.

Good And Bad Things About Partnering

Frank Rolfe — Tue, 03 Mar 2026 08:34:26 -0700

Many RV Parks are owned by partnerships – two or more individuals who get together to buy and operate a property. But is that the right fit for you? In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to review the positive and negative attributes of partnerships.

All About Mowing

Frank Rolfe — Tue, 17 Feb 2026 05:41:20 -0700

With the advent of warmer temperatures comes the responsibility of mowing your RV Park. But who should you hire to do it and what should it cost? In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to review the correct methods and strategies to get ready for mowing season.

How To Create A More Stable Revenue Stream

Frank Rolfe — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 15:08:07 -0700

Dependable income is always desirable, yet many RV Park owners are missing out on some proven methods to make cash - flow something you can count on each month. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to explore some methods of fine - tuning your occupancy to make sure that fixed costs and mortgages can be covered with ease.

Why Seasoned Investors Get Beaten By "Newbies"

Frank Rolfe — Tue, 20 Jan 2026 07:02:54 -0700

While many new RV Park investors are self - conscious until they have that first property under their belts, the truth is that the “newbie” investor has certain advantages over the seasoned players. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to unlock the strengths of being new to RV Park investing and why fresh investors often beat out their more professional adversaries.

Megatrend Teflon

Frank Rolfe — Mon, 05 Jan 2026 06:00:00 -0700

America is filled with a plethora of massive shifts in consumer sentiment, demographics and economic cycles, all of which were labelled “Megatrends” back in the 1980s. However, RV Parks have the advantage of escaping the wrath of the most damaging of these shifts, while benefitting from virtually all of the good ones. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to explore how this occurs.

The Low Capital Playbook

Frank Rolfe — Wed, 17 Dec 2025 08:06:29 -0700

RV Park buyers all have different financial conditions and down-payment restrictions, but the good news is that there are methods to buy RV Parks with very low – or no – capital required. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to review the methods of buying RV Parks with lower amounts of money at your disposal.

How To Approach High-Risk-High Return Deals

Frank Rolfe — Wed, 03 Dec 2025 07:53:56 -0700

The late Sam Zell – the largest owner of RV Parks in the U.S. – often said “when a deal has low-risk and high-reward you should always buy it, when a deal has high-risk and low-reward you should never buy it, and the only deals you need to think about are high-risk/high-reward ones”. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to explore how to properly analyze high-risk/high-reward deals.

How To Overcome Buying Jitters

Frank Rolfe — Mon, 17 Nov 2025 08:11:42 -0700

There’s a fear factor to doing something you’ve never done before, and that’s only natural. But if your cold feet are holding you back, that can ruin our life financially. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to review constructive methods to fight your fear when buying an RV Park.

All About Direct Mail

Frank Rolfe — Mon, 03 Nov 2025 15:13:03 -0700

One of the best ways to find an RV Park to buy is by sending out direct mail campaigns to current owners. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to review time-tested methods to make these more productive and some of the main lessons learned on how to build an effective mailer.

The Seller Carry Mouse Trap

Frank Rolfe — Fri, 17 Oct 2025 07:00:00 -0600

Seller financing is a great way to handle the banking on an RV Park – or it can also be a trap. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to review the fine points that separate a successful seller carry transaction from an unhappy buyer’s mouse trap.

Are Fifth Wheels And Travel Trailers The Homes Of The Future?

Frank Rolfe — Mon, 06 Oct 2025 12:37:08 -0600

While RV Parks are often all about temporary housing, a growing trend is for Americans to live in their recreational vehicles full-time. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to explore the “permanent housing” side of the industry and how it can be an important addition to many RV Parks.

What Would Sam Zell Say Right Now?

Frank Rolfe — Mon, 08 Sep 2025 16:51:18 -0600

The late Sam Zell was the largest owner of RV Parks in American history – and he was a huge fan of unstable economic times. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to review what Sam Zell might be saying about this current chapter in America.

Never Relax Your Standards!

Frank Rolfe — Mon, 25 Aug 2025 14:48:16 -0600

Once you have set your goals in buying an RV Park it’s essential that you never relax those standards. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to explore the correct way to derive your target metrics and then the essential reasons you must never change those, regardless of events.

The Role Of Park Models

Frank Rolfe — Tue, 12 Aug 2025 11:45:03 -0600

The RV Park business model is based on the goal of attaining the highest occupancy and revenue possible given the existing location and structure. But not all RV Parks share the same path to achieve this noble purpose. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to explore how to expand your net income through the careful use of park models.

Understanding The Supply Side

Frank Rolfe — Mon, 28 Jul 2025 08:00:00 -0600

The most fundamental rule of economics is “supply and demand”. Yet too many RV Park buyers fail to grasp how the single most important factors in your success is simply how easy it is to build another RV Park down the street. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to review how to determine future supply and why it’s so vital to your long-term profitability.

"Is That The Best You Can Do?"

Frank Rolfe — Tue, 15 Jul 2025 05:27:02 -0600

When you own an RV Park there are seven words that can save you a ton of money: “is that the best you can do?”. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to explore how you can shave significant money off any vendor interaction – and teach good business skills to your manager – with this one simple question.

Avoiding Reckless Behavior

Frank Rolfe — Tue, 01 Jul 2025 12:34:24 -0600

Taking chances with the hope of making money is known as “calculated risk”, while doing so with zero hope of making money is simply “reckless”. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to unlock what these “reckless behaviors” are for RV Park owners and how to eliminate them.

"First You Get On, Then You Get Honest"

Frank Rolfe — Mon, 16 Jun 2025 07:21:54 -0600

There’s an old saying in business that “first you get on, then you get honest” – and that’s definitely true in the RV Park industry. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to explore why most RV Park buyers have to take a leap of faith at the beginning and then solidify their position later. We’re also going to review some methods to mitigate your risk when doing so.

All About NDA's

Frank Rolfe — Mon, 26 May 2025 13:40:03 -0600

Non-Disclosure Agreements are a common part of buying RV Parks, but they have to be properly analyzed to protect your interests. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to explore the concept of NDA’s, what the risks are, and how to mitigate them.

Cancelling Contracts Without Burning Bridges

Frank Rolfe — Mon, 12 May 2025 16:47:31 -0600

Every good RV Park contract should allow the buyer to cancel during the due diligence or financing contingencies. But how can you cancel a contract without burning your bridges with the seller or broker? In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to explore some smart methods to give you the power to cancel deals without offending the other parties involved.

Megatrend Power

Frank Rolfe — Tue, 29 Apr 2025 11:14:32 -0600

In 1982 John Naisbitt published "Megatrends" which referred to forces so strong in the economy that you could not prosper unless you were aligned with them. There are a huge number of "megatrends" at work in the U.S. economy today and in this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to review each one and how it relates to this sector.

When Numbers Don’t Align

Frank Rolfe — Mon, 14 Apr 2025 13:27:55 -0600

It can often be a huge shock when you get the seller’s financial numbers during due diligence. And how those align with what they promised you can have some important consequences in your view of the property. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to explore how numbers alignment can tell you a lot about a property.

The Power Of Volume

Frank Rolfe — Tue, 01 Apr 2025 07:50:19 -0600

If you’re trying to find an RV Park to buy, then one of the most important forces to harness is “volume”. Even average negotiators can come away with great acquisitions if they simply employ the power of numbers. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to review how you can put together an aggressive campaign to build greater volume of deal flow, as well as why banking on numbers is a well-proven method of being a better buyer.

How To Stay Anonymous

Frank Rolfe — Mon, 17 Mar 2025 14:25:51 -0600

It’s OK to be proud of being the owner of an RV Park, but you still want to build a firewall to protect your private time. In this RV Park Mastery podcast, we’re going to show you some real-world tricks to maintain your privacy and give you the freedom to be both an owner but also someone who has a happy home life.

The Power Of Creativity And Inclusion

Frank Rolfe — Tue, 04 Mar 2025 12:31:15 -0700

Being a deal maker is much more than just looking at RV Parks for sale and making offers. The best purchases often require forging a winning construction through the use of creativity and inclusion. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to review how to build better deals using your brain and people skills.

All About Loan Brokers

Frank Rolfe — Tue, 18 Feb 2025 11:50:39 -0700

When you go to get a loan for an RV Park you can either do it yourself or use the services of a “loan broker”. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to review the positive attributes to having a real professional obtain your loans and discuss why we use them on all of our deals.

Tricks To Breaking The Ice On Cold Calling

Frank Rolfe — Mon, 03 Feb 2025 15:16:41 -0700

Cold calling RV Park owners is a great way to find deals. But it’s very uncomfortable for those who have not done it before. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to review some great ideas to reduce your fear of “smiling and dialing” and help you make this an important part of your sourcing of potential deals.

The Remarkable Flexibility Of The Business Model

Frank Rolfe — Tue, 21 Jan 2025 10:53:20 -0700

Most forms of commercial real estate are set in stone. You can’t easily convert a factory building into a hotel or an apartment complex into a retail strip center. However, RV parks hold the enviable ability to morph into a number of product lines based on market demand. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to explore the chameleon - like nature of real estate’s most adaptable business model.

Understanding The Different Types Of Partners

Frank Rolfe — Fri, 03 Jan 2025 08:31:00 -0700

In the RV Park universe there are basically three successful types of partners. But what are they and how do they work? In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to review these three type of partnerships, discuss how you could benefit from them, and explore how to manage them successfully.

All About Seller Seconds

Frank Rolfe — Fri, 20 Dec 2024 15:32:26 -0700

Most RV Park deals revolve around a down - payment and a first - lien mortgage. But some deals have one additional financing tool: a seller second. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to explore how seller seconds work, the legitimate purposes they can play, one pitfall they can create.

The Hidden Message Sellers Send With Pricing Disclaimers

Frank Rolfe — Wed, 04 Dec 2024 13:35:28 -0700

Some RV Park sellers simply put a price on their listings. And others attach words to that price – or offer no price at all. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to explore the hidden meanings of these unusual seller price disclaimers.

Navigating "Experts"

Frank Rolfe — Tue, 19 Nov 2024 11:54:39 -0700

When you are buying or operating an RV Park you get no shortage of people giving you their input. But which ones should you listen to? In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to review the methodology required to sort such “experts” into those who are worthy of listening to versus those that should be disregarded.

How To Beat Warren Buffett

Frank Rolfe — Tue, 05 Nov 2024 07:00:00 -0700

Warren Buffett is the most successful stock investor in American history. And, as an RV Park owner you can easily match and beat his performance metrics. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to explore the legacy of the “Oracle of Omaha” and why it’s not that hard to beat his rate-of-return with this unique real estate sector.

The Importance of The "Flinch"

Frank Rolfe — Tue, 15 Oct 2024 14:34:39 -0600

One of the most important skills you can possess as an RV Park buyer is the art of negotiation. While most buyers understand the concept of starting low and triangulating the final price from the back-and-forth of price haggling but one element that often goes overlooked is the “Flinch”. In this RV Park Mastery podcast, we’re going to review what the “Flinch” is and why it’s imperative that you adopt it immediately when negotiating on RV Parks.

How To Attract Younger Customers

Frank Rolfe — Fri, 27 Sep 2024 09:54:18 -0600

Millennials have become a bigger demographic than Baby Boomers – and that’s fine because they seem to have the same love for RVs as their older predecessors. But the problem is that many RV Park owners are doing a poor job of welcoming in this younger segment of customers. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to review some basic steps to increase your share of the “younger generation”.

Is 30 Days Of Diligence Really Feasible?

Frank Rolfe — Fri, 13 Sep 2024 08:32:36 -0600

Much has changed in America since the pandemic, and one of those net effects has been the inability to hit time targets. Thirty days of diligence has been the standard in the RV Park industry for decades, but is that really realistic today? In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to explore the diligence process and determine what the important deal points are regarding the selected time period.

The Power Of Negative News

Frank Rolfe — Mon, 26 Aug 2024 13:25:47 -0600

There’s little to like in the national news today. Between a pending recession, the war in Ukraine, the war in Israel, inflation and the highest interest rates in 40 years, there’s plenty to be depressed about. But all that negative news is great news for RV Park buyers. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to explore why all of the bad things going on in America right now is an “opportunity creator” for buyers.

The Dangers Of Short-term Sellers

Frank Rolfe — Sun, 28 Jul 2024 14:12:55 -0600

The typical mom and pop seller has owned the RV Park for decades. But sometimes a seller has been running the property for a much shorter period, even a matter of months. What are the implications when a seller has been only a short-term owner? In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to explore the risks involved in buying from one of these type of sellers, and how to mitigate them.

Cancelling Deals Without Burning Bridges

Frank Rolfe — Tue, 09 Jul 2024 00:16:21 -0600

Every good RV Park buyer uses a contract that has a “due diligence contingency” and the purpose is to allow you to cancel the agreement if the deal does not meet your expectations. But the art form is to terminate the deal without burning any bridges. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to review constructive steps to cancelling with the seller without causing hard feelings or being excluded by the broker to look at other deals.

Really Undestanding Recourse

Frank Rolfe — Wed, 26 Jun 2024 00:39:59 -0600

We all know that a non-recourse loan is better than a recourse loan – but is recourse as bad as it sounds? In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to explore the real risks of recourse debt as well as concepts to mitigate it and actually embrace it.

Due Diligence Comes After – Not Before – You’re Under Contract

Frank Rolfe — Mon, 10 Jun 2024 22:57:51 -0600

How much research do you do on the property before you sign the agreement and put it in the title company? While you don’t want to waste your time, the truth is that too many RV Park buyers wait way too long before getting their deal locked up, and that’s a mistake. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to explore the strategy behind why you need to tie the RV Park up first, and do the diligence later.

The Pending Power Of Lower Rates

Frank Rolfe — Mon, 27 May 2024 21:36:46 -0600

It would appear that interest rates are about to begin their descent after the fastest rise in 40 years. Beginning in 2022, Jerome Powell from the Fed decided to take the rates from 0.25% to 5.5%. However, that all appears about to turn and this will usher in some great advantages for RV Park investing. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to review what these benefits will be.

Let The Broker Provide And You Decide

Frank Rolfe — Mon, 13 May 2024 21:00:22 -0600

Brokers have been the source of more than half the deals we’ve purchased over the past 30 years. But one big mistake some buyers make is to look at the broker as more than just the source of the RV Parks they buy. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to explore the reasons why you should keep all brokers as great resources for deal flow but not turn them into deal evaluators or sounding boards for your turn-around concepts.

How To Be Inclusive With Your Seller

Frank Rolfe — Fri, 26 Apr 2024 02:00:00 -0600

There are many strategies to better serve your goal of forging a deal with the seller, but few are as effective as “inclusiveness”. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to explore how to make “inclusive” deals and what the net effect can be.

Seller Note Pressure Points

Frank Rolfe — Fri, 12 Apr 2024 02:00:00 -0600

Many RV Parks are sold utilizing seller financing. But on those deals your negotiation does not just revolve around the purchase price – the way you negotiate the seller’s note is just as important. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to review the key points of negotiation for seller notes.

Should You Sell Or Refinance?

Frank Rolfe — Fri, 22 Mar 2024 02:00:00 -0600

Once you’ve owned your RV park for a while, invariably you will receive a call or letter from someone wanting to buy it from you for more than you paid. Should you take the money? Is there another option? In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to explore the reasons to sell versus hold on as well as the difference between selling and refinancing your RV park.

What The Success Of Els Suggests About This Sector’s Future

Frank Rolfe — Fri, 23 Feb 2024 11:41:20 -0700

Equity Lifestyle (ELS) is a public REIT and the largest owner of RV Parks in the U.S. They recently announced their 2023 earnings and there are some interesting conclusions that can be drawn from them. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to explore what the ELS financial performance suggests about the future of the industry.

Understanding How You Get Paid Twice

Frank Rolfe — Fri, 09 Feb 2024 02:00:00 -0700

RV Park owners have the benefit of getting paid twice: once with monthly cash flow and then a second time with appreciation in value. So how does this occur and how can you estimate your rate of return with this knowledge? In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to explore why RV Park owners get paid twice and what this means for your investment success.

Never Pay Managers With Equity

Frank Rolfe — Fri, 26 Jan 2024 01:00:00 -0700

You can pay managers a flat rate or include a bonus. But never pay managers with equity in your RV Park. In this RV Park Mastery Podcast we’re going to focus on why giving managers part ownership in your property is never a winning strategy.

A Sanity Check

Frank Rolfe — Fri, 12 Jan 2024 02:00:00 -0700

Some sellers and brokers will try to convince you that you’re crazy when making an offer – that the property is worth twice that amount. But you’re not the crazy one. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to review how RV Parks are valued and why the crazy one is the one that does not follow the math.

All About Seller Tax Returns

Frank Rolfe — Fri, 29 Dec 2023 22:18:14 -0700

There are two givens in life they say: death and taxes. And those tax returns can often be the death of many RV Park deals. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to review the ins and outs of seller tax returns including what they can tell you about the property as well as what to do when they don’t match what the seller tells you.

The Art Of Finding Contractors

Frank Rolfe — Fri, 15 Dec 2023 13:37:52 -0700

Part of bringing an older RV Park back to life – so it can be the best it can be – encompasses making structural repairs and upgrades to the infrastructure and amenities. But ever since Covid the availability of qualified workers is greatly diminished. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to review some creative ideas to find workers with the skills you need.

How To Deal With The Next Generation

Frank Rolfe — Mon, 27 Nov 2023 19:56:15 -0700

Most of the time you are buying from the original mom and pop builder of the RV park. But sometimes you end up with the next generation – which could not be more different in goals and personalities. So how do you bridge the age gap? In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to give you real-life tips on cutting deals with the heirs.

A Simple Statistic That Explains It All

Frank Rolfe — Mon, 06 Nov 2023 23:06:07 -0700

Of all the important formulas that revolve around RV Park investing, there is one simple fact that explains how the business functions and what makes RV Park investing successful. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to review what that fact is and the many ways it applies to the business.

Five Ways To Boost Occupancy Right Now

Frank Rolfe — Fri, 27 Oct 2023 02:00:00 -0600

If you have even one vacant space in your RV park then you’re losing potential income and value. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to review the top five ways to boost any RV park’s occupancy – and all of these are things you can do right now and at very low cost. If you harness these five strategies you can boost your occupancy quickly.

The Return Of Deal-Making Creativity

Frank Rolfe — Fri, 13 Oct 2023 02:00:00 -0600

With loan interest rates high and the economy troubled, many RV Park deals are requiring an element of creativity to get finalized. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we're going to review the types of creative thought and strategy that can make deals possible and how to get the seller to be as enthusiastic as you are to embrace their outside-the-box mentality.

Why RV Parks Do Fine In Recessions

Frank Rolfe — Fri, 22 Sep 2023 11:02:00 -0600

If you watch the news right now you will come to the conclusion that the world is coming to an end – which is pretty accurate. Recession is certainly on its way to the U.S. and investments should all be currently graded by their resilience in tough economic times. And one of the best of that group are RV parks, which are well positioned to survive whatever the economy throws at them. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to review what makes RV parks a safe bet in both good times and bad.

Non-refundable Earnest Money? Just Say No

Frank Rolfe — Fri, 08 Sep 2023 02:00:00 -0600

The standard construction of an RV park purchase contract is for the buyer to put up refundable earnest money, subject to the findings of due diligence and financing. However, some sellers and brokers will float the idea to you of that earnest money being non-refundable on day one. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to drill down on this concept and why it’s always a bad idea for the buyer.

How To Set Seller Note Interest Rates

Frank Rolfe — Mon, 21 Aug 2023 15:16:41 -0600

Many RV parks are seller financed and the topic of interest rates is always a part of that discussion. So how do you properly set the interest rate on a seller note? In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to review the necessary steps and strategies to selecting the right rate.

How To Disarm Bad Managers

Frank Rolfe — Mon, 07 Aug 2023 12:39:51 -0600

A good manager can really push your business forward – and a bad one can wreck it. And since even good managers can go bad over time, it’s important that you don’t provide your manager with the ability to cause you harm even after you’ve replaced them. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to review smart tactics to make sure that you can focus on your business and not the aftermath of a bad employee.

The Science Behind Making First Offers

Frank Rolfe — Sat, 22 Jul 2023 20:10:25 -0600

All About Online Listings

Frank Rolfe — Fri, 07 Jul 2023 02:00:00 -0600

One of the methods to find an RV park is to look at “online” listings –typically on RVparkstore.com or Loopnet.com. But there’s a lot you need to know about how to properly navigate this deal-finding platform. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to review the basics and give you some tips to be more successful in the online arena.

Income Stability Success From Adding Park Models

Frank Rolfe — Fri, 16 Jun 2023 13:09:53 -0600

Seasonal RV parks have a continual challenge: surviving the off-season when revenue can sometimes equal zero. However, there’s a way to balance the off-season out with the addition of park models, allowing people to live full time in the RV park. Additionally, some RV paks that are open year-round can still benefit their revenue stability by adding park model structures. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to explore the topic of park models and how they can help you attain a more dependable revenue stream.

What Happens To RV Parks In National Recessions?

Frank Rolfe — Thu, 01 Jun 2023 14:55:39 -0600

As the U.S. heads toward a potential recession in the next few months, the logical question is how that economic reality will impact the RV park industry. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to drill down on this topic and identify the potential issues to consider. As you’ll see, there’s a lot to consider.

The Options When A Seller Wants Out Of Their Contract

Frank Rolfe — Tue, 23 May 2023 11:55:48 -0600

When a seller signs a contract, the general expectation is that they will go through with it. But what do you do when the seller has second thoughts and later wants you to render the agreement null and void? That the focus of this RV Park Mastery podcast, in which we review the options when this circumstance may arise.

Property Tax Strategies

Frank Rolfe — Fri, 05 May 2023 02:00:00 -0600

Every RV Park in America gets an annual tax bill – but how you approach it makes all the difference. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to review the normal strategies that are employed to try and address your property tax obligations.

The Importance Of Neutrality

Frank Rolfe — Fri, 21 Apr 2023 16:42:04 -0600

When you’re doing due diligence on an RV Park the worst thing you can do is to make early decisions about whether or not you’re going to go forward with buying it. A good buyer must remain like Switzerland and remain neutral until all of the facts have been explored. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to review methods to remain impartial until the appropriate moment to make a final decision.

Don’t Trust Others With Your Direct Mail Future

Frank Rolfe — Fri, 07 Apr 2023 12:14:18 -0600

The Three C’s Of Numerical Analysis

Frank Rolfe — Fri, 24 Mar 2023 10:37:09 -0600

When looking at buying an RV park, there are three units of mathematical comparison that are the most important: 1) cap rate 2) cash-on-cash, and 3) cash flow. In this RV Park Mastery podcast, we will drill down on what these are, how to calculate them, and what they mean when acquiring an RV park property.

The Options When You And The Seller Can’t Agree On A Price

Frank Rolfe — Fri, 10 Mar 2023 22:16:42 -0700

When the seller won’t agree to the amount you think the RV park is worth, is there anything you can do but simply walk away? In this RV Park Mastery podcast, we’re going to examine six different methods you can use to make deals happen even when the seller is originally reluctant to give you the price you need.

Lucky Or Smart

Frank Rolfe — Fri, 24 Feb 2023 23:12:21 -0700

There are countless stories of individuals who bought RV parks that were underperforming and made them into huge success stories. But was that triumph because they were lucky or smart? In this episode of the RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to investigate the concepts of “luck” and “skill” to properly identify which is the key ingredient to success.

Creating Seller Urgency

Frank Rolfe — Mon, 13 Feb 2023 21:51:25 -0700

Sometimes you get an RV Park deal ready to be signed up, but the seller keeps procrastinating. You feel helpless to push them over the top, and it drives you nuts because you’re afraid that another buyer will come along and steal your opportunity. So how can you create seller urgency to propel them forward and get your deal signed? That’s the focus of this RV Park Mastery Podcast.

Watch Out For The Interaction Between Managers And Contractors

Frank Rolfe — Mon, 30 Jan 2023 20:08:22 -0700

There is nothing more dangerous to stay on budget with your RV park than the relationship between the manager and contractors. Even the best-planned renovations and property updates can go bad when a manager gets involved in the process. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to review how a manager can ruin your budgets – and even create liability – when you let them have a say in what, when, and how a contractor works on your property.

The Meaning And Impact of Insufficient Financials

Frank Rolfe — Fri, 13 Jan 2023 02:00:00 -0700

Some RV Park sellers have perfect, computerized financials that you can seamlessly give to lenders. But others have numbers written in crayon and still others are missing the financials altogether. Can you still buy those properties? In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to review the various scenarios of incomplete financials and the message they send.

Is A Lifetime Manager Possible?

Frank Rolfe — Wed, 28 Dec 2022 20:00:20 -0700

We have employed hundreds of managers over the past few decades, and some properties have suffered through two or three manager changes in one year. After you have owned and operated RV parks for a while you start to lose hope that you can make a single hire and that manager will last until you sell the property decades into the future. Yet it happens. In this podcast we try to identify the traits and methods required to attain a “lifetime” manager.

Understanding And Embracing Risk

Frank Rolfe — Fri, 09 Dec 2022 02:00:00 -0700

Sam Zell is the largest owner of RV parks in the United States with over 160,000 lots. And he has attained that stature through a heavy focus on risk. Zell sees risk as a tool and the healthy byproduct of taking chances in the pursuit of making money. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to explore Zell’s views on risk and how to use that concept in making better RV park acquisition decisions.

Using Higher Interest Rates as a Tool to Get Seller Carry

Frank Rolfe — Fri, 25 Nov 2022 02:00:00 -0700

Every storm cloud has a silver lining, and higher U.S. interest rates can be used as an important lever to obtain desirable seller financing on RV Parks. How does that work? In this RV Park Mastery Podcast we’re going to break down the action steps to convince the seller to carry paper, as well as tips on how to get the job done.

Behind Closed Doors On Your Loan Request

Frank Rolfe — Fri, 11 Nov 2022 02:00:00 -0700

Getting a loan to buy your RV park is an essential part of the business model, unless you are obtaining seller financing. So what really goes on in those bank loan committee meetings and how can you impact that discussion from outside the room? In this episode we’re going to discuss how banking works and what you can do to improve your odds of success.

How To Get An Extension

Frank Rolfe — Fri, 28 Oct 2022 02:00:00 -0600

Buying an RV park typically includes a due diligence period and financing contingency. But what do you do when you can’t meet the timetable spelled out in the contract? In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to review constructive steps to successfully obtaining an extension from the seller if that is necessary. In a perfect world everything would fall into place on the promised dates, but the world is not perfect.

Freedom From Fear

Frank Rolfe — Fri, 14 Oct 2022 13:53:34 -0600

Between Hurricane Ian and the Federal Reserve it’s easy to get paralyzed by fear when looking at any RV Park deal – or even simply going to the grocery store. But life must go on. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to review decision-making techniques to help reduce your stress and to make better decisions possible on when deals should – or should not – be pursued.

If You Can’t Trust Your Information Then You Can’t Trust Your Decisions

Frank Rolfe — Tue, 04 Oct 2022 14:00:00 -0600

We live in an era of virtual assistants and delegation in the search of the “4-hour work week”. While there are some things you can assign to others, much of what’s needed to make good decisions in RV park investing can only come from your own experiences and information derivation. So what can you outsource and what do you need to actively be involved in? That’s the topic of this RV Park Mastery podcast.

What To Do When The Asking Price Is Just Fine

Frank Rolfe — Fri, 16 Sep 2022 01:00:00 -0600

Typically the RV park seller asks more than the property is worth. That’s the American tradition of negotiation. But what do you do when the price is just fine – or even lower than it should be? That’s the focus of this RV Park Mastery podcast in which we’ll review the negotiation playbook when there’s nothing to negotiate.

The Benefits of Bad Brokers

Frank Rolfe — Fri, 02 Sep 2022 01:00:00 -0600

Not all RV park brokers are good at their job. But sometimes a “bad” broker is actually great for an RV park buyer. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to review the many reasons why bad brokers may be worth the best thing in your effort to find a good deal to buy.

How To Make A Seller Sell

Frank Rolfe — Fri, 19 Aug 2022 01:00:00 -0600

Before you can buy an RV park you must have a willing seller. But how can you make them sell to you? In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to discuss what motivates a mom and pop RV park owner to sell and what you can do to push that concept forward. Why you can’t control the whole process, there are definitely three actions you can take to improve your odds of success and that’s what we’re going to review.

How To Make Low But Not Insulting Offers

Frank Rolfe — Fri, 05 Aug 2022 01:00:00 -0600

There’s no purpose to making offers to buy RV parks unless they get countered by the seller. But many RV parks are only deserving of prices much lower than what the seller is demanding. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to review the art of making low offers without them appearing insulting, with the simple goal to get the seller to share in our vision, counter our offer, and ultimately end up with a signed purchase contract.

Bonding With Your Lender

Frank Rolfe — Fri, 22 Jul 2022 11:00:00 -0600

We all know the value of bonding with sellers to attain the best prices and terms on an RV park. But what about bonding with lenders? In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to discuss the benefit of building a relationship with your lender and some practical pointers to make that happen.

Consultative Vs. Adversarial Deal Making

Frank Rolfe — Fri, 08 Jul 2022 01:00:00 -0600

Many RV park buyers do themselves a disservice by reading books from the “self-help” section of Barnes & Noble related to “how to negotiate”. These books dwell on the negotiation style known as “win/lose”. But there’s a much more effective style that you should adopt that will allow you to forge great deals much easier and often with added benefits like seller financing and this model is called “win/win”. One is consultative in nature and the other adversarial. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to review these two very different styles and explain why one is clearly superior.

Lender Etiquette

Frank Rolfe — Mon, 20 Jun 2022 17:00:00 -0600

Virtually every RV park sold in the U.S. revolves around a mortgage. And there is a certain playbook required to successfully get a loan and maintain a good relationship with your lender. In this RV Park Mastery podcast, we’re going to examine the protocol to obtain a loan, build your lender relationship, and retain the loan upon its renewal.

Extended Stay Equals Extended Stability

Frank Rolfe — Fri, 03 Jun 2022 01:00:00 -0600

One of the big concerns of RV park buyers and owners is the lack of control over revenues as you never know who will be coming and going on any given day. However, extended stay customers offer you a steady cash flow that can really ease those concerns. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to review what extended stay customers are, how to attract them, and how they can give you greater peace of mind.

Big, Small And Everything In-Between

Frank Rolfe — Tue, 24 May 2022 16:00:00 -0600

RV parks come in a wide variety of sizes to fit every budget and goal, but which is the right size for you? In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to examine how the size of the RV park impacts your investment and how to come up with the matrix of considerations to help you make that decision.

Who’s Your Buddy? Better Not Be Your Manager

Frank Rolfe — Fri, 06 May 2022 01:00:00 -0600

We all need friends, but it’s not appropriate to list your RV park manager as one of them. In this RV Park Mastery podcast, we’re going to review how to have a successful relationship with your manager, but only on a business level to maximize profitability and minimize complications.

Is It Time For Uniforms?

Frank Rolfe — Fri, 22 Apr 2022 01:00:00 -0600

Every business reaches a moment in which it is better served to seem “corporate” in nature. Is it that time for your RV park? That’s the focus of this RV Park Mastery podcast, in which we’ll explore the benefits and disadvantages of appearing “big” and how to get the most bang for your buck.

Significant Vs. Trivial

Frank Rolfe — Fri, 08 Apr 2022 01:00:00 -0600

One of the hallmarks of great leaders is the ability to discern between what is significant and what is trivial. So what about RV parks is important and what is more minor? That’s the topic of this RV Park Mastery podcast. We’re going to not only go over these items but what the impact would be and how to figure these out in due diligence.

How To Cure Your Fear of Cold-Calling RV Park Owners

Frank Rolfe — Fri, 25 Mar 2022 01:00:00 -0600

It’s a fact that the #1 fear of Americans is public speaking. It ranks one notch above death, which comes in at #2. With that type of fear permeating all levels of speaking before a strange audience, it only makes sense that cold-calling RV park owners to see if they want to sell would be far outside your comfort zone. But the fact is that cold-calling represents one of the best ways to find an RV park to buy at an attractive price, and without the inclusion of a broker. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to review some constructive methods to cure your fear of cold-calling RV park owners.

A Guide To Making Offers

Frank Rolfe — Fri, 11 Mar 2022 01:00:00 -0700

All RV park deals begin with a signed contract. But before you can have that written agreement, a price must be decided. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to discuss how to come up with that initial offer and why so many people can’t get the ball rolling in this regard. Too much thought can lead to “paralysis by analysis” and too little can lead to an endless stream of contracts cancelled and time wasted.

Growing Your Business – Literally

Frank Rolfe — Thu, 24 Feb 2022 18:00:00 -0700

The turn-around plan to maximize most RV parks is to increase occupancy and rents. But there’s another component that more and more RV park owners are considering. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to address the issue of physically expanding the number of lots in your RV park. These expansions can be very profitable, but also come with some pitfalls that must be considered.

Understanding Payroll

Frank Rolfe — Mon, 14 Feb 2022 09:00:00 -0700

RV park owners often have the wrong numbers in their payroll category – and it can be a big cost that can skew the numbers either more or less attractive than they actually should be. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to review what should and shouldn’t be in the P&L regarding labor cost and why so many moms and pops get this number wrong.

Science Isn’t Just For NASA

Frank Rolfe — Thu, 27 Jan 2022 01:00:00 -0700

An RV park seems like a simple business model, but maximizing its profitability is just as complicated as landing a spacecraft on the moon. Using scientific protocols to enhance your RV park is essential if you want to really optimize your profitability and efficiency. But how do you do it? In this RV Park Mastery Podcast, we’re going to discuss how you can bring science to any RV park to get a handle on making it the best income property it can be – as well as the most appreciated by your customers.

Hard Money Vs. Bank Debt Vs. Capital Partner

Frank Rolfe — Thu, 13 Jan 2022 01:00:00 -0700

Money is money, but how you get it can have differing impacts. Whether bank debt, "hard money” or finding a capital partner, your selection can have a huge impact on your quality of life and ultimate profitability. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to explore the options to pay for RV parks, and what the good and bad aspects are to each.

Where The Really Good Deals Are

Frank Rolfe — Thu, 30 Dec 2021 01:00:00 -0700

There are RV park deals, and then there are really good RV park deals. So where do you find those? In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to review the sources of deals and sort them into the categories of quality of the deals they originate, as well as to review why exactly that is. There may be some methods to find good RV parks that you are currently underutilizing.

What Does Opportunity Look Like?

Frank Rolfe — Thu, 09 Dec 2021 01:00:00 -0700

RV parks with the most potential all have a certain look. And when you see that “look” you need to heighten your push to get it under contract. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to review what a good deal looks like and what those symbols represent. A sign of an effective RV park buyer is the ability to spot great.

Do You Really Have The Passion?

Frank Rolfe — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 01:00:00 -0700

Warren Buffett once said “without passion you don’t have energy, and without energy you have nothing”. Do you really have the passion for buying an RV park? In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to discuss what passion really is, how to harness it, why you can’t fake it successfully, and how most of the top RV park owners share similar passions.

Daily, Weekly, Monthly, Annually – Why Not All Four?

Frank Rolfe — Thu, 11 Nov 2021 01:00:00 -0700

Today’s RV park breaks the boundaries of those of the past – but in a positive way. No longer do many RV parks simply offer one type of service, but a range of options that have different levels of recurring revenue. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to discuss the different ways and frequency of collecting revenue, and how you can harness this new playing field for greater and more consistent income.

Raising Capital For Down Payments

Frank Rolfe — Thu, 28 Oct 2021 01:00:00 -0600

The old adage “it takes money to make money” is true in real estate as most properties require some form of down payment. And if you don’t have the needed funds, what can you do? In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to review the methods of raising capital to buy RV properties from investors as well as lessons learned on the right and wrong way to approach this important topic.

Thoughts On Extending Your Season

Frank Rolfe — Thu, 14 Oct 2021 01:00:00 -0600

The advent of winter causes some RV park owners to be sad and others happy – depending on whether your property is in the north or the south. But there are concepts out there that allow any RV park owner to extend their season and have revenue year-round. That’s the topic of this RV Park Mastery podcast. All of the concepts we’ll discuss are low-risk and time-proven – you have nothing to lose and everything to gain.

Everything Old Is New Again – The Return Of Glamping

Frank Rolfe — Thu, 30 Sep 2021 01:00:00 -0600

Glamour camping is called “glamping”, and it has its roots in 16th century Scotland when the Duke of Atholl built luxurious tents to entertain King James V. Today’s version is focused on providing an upscale experience in the outdoors, and RV parks are the center of this travel offering. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we review what “glamping” is all about and how you might introduce it into your property’s list of options.

Is RV Park Investing Too Good To Be True?

Frank Rolfe — Thu, 16 Sep 2021 01:00:00 -0600

It’s a generally valid observation that much of what looks too good on the surface turns out to be much worse in reality. If you’re thinking that RV park investing fits this bill, then there are two problems: 1) you are being unrealistic on this investing option and 2) you are not paying enough attention to the risks associated with buying the wrong RV park. RV park investing – like all real estate sectors – has good and bad attributes. But there are some unique advantages to RV parks that really are as good as they appear, and that’s the focus of this RV Park Mastery podcast.

Simple Steps To Managing Your Manager

Frank Rolfe — Thu, 02 Sep 2021 01:00:00 -0600

Every RV park must have a manager, yet many owners don’t put nearly enough thought or strategy into getting the most out of these individuals (or even to monitor their performance at all). In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to review some simple steps to aid in your selection and oversight of this vital part of your team.

The Power Of Harnessing Customer Feedback

Frank Rolfe — Thu, 19 Aug 2021 01:00:00 -0600

Your customers are the life’s blood of your business. But many RV park owners are missing out on the opportunity to fully understand the feedback from these consumers. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to review some simple, business-changing methods to harness the power of feedback to move your business in the right direction and increase your customer satisfaction and, as a result, your revenue.

The Problem With Overnighter Properties

Frank Rolfe — Thu, 05 Aug 2021 01:00:00 -0600

There are different types of RV parks, but one of the most unusual is the “overnighter” which is basically just a parking lot for RVs stopping for the night on the way from Point A to Point B. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to discuss the unique attributes of this type of property and what you need to watch out for.

Why Bankers Love Pessimists

Frank Rolfe — Thu, 22 Jul 2021 01:00:00 -0600

Getting an RV park loan is an essential part of the acquisition process. You may be excited about your deal, but that enthusiasm can sometimes be the wrong approach in getting a loan. The issue is that bankers love pessimism. But why is that? In this RV Park Mastery podcast, we’re going to explore why bankers get turned on by negative people, and how to harness this energy is crafting an even better loan package for the lender.

Trees 101

Frank Rolfe — Tue, 06 Jul 2021 01:00:00 -0600

There’s a new movement to embrace trees from a green environment perspective. But RV park owners have treasured trees long before ecology became a hot topic. In this episode of the RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to talk all about trees and how to manage them correctly. As you’ll see, smart RV park owners are part botanist, part risk analyst, and part Hollywood set designer.

Successfully Structuring Partnerships

Frank Rolfe — Thu, 24 Jun 2021 01:00:00 -0600

Webster’s defines “partnership” as “a pair of people engaged together in the same activity”. But as simple as that sounds, there are some concrete steps to take in structuring these relationships. That’s the topic of this episode of the RV Park Mastery podcast. We’ll talk about what makes for good partners, how to divide duties and compensation, why partnerships fail, and what to do when they do. If you’re thinking of entering into a partnership to buy an RV park, then this episode is filled with important considerations.

An Update On The Art Of Negotiating

Frank Rolfe — Tue, 22 Jun 2021 01:00:00 -0600

Negotiating RV Park deals is an art. And a science. And if you’re not competent in this skill, you’re never going to realize your full potential. The good news is there are some basic laws of negotiating, and much that you can to do stay in practice. In this RV Park mastery podcast we’re going to review what’s new about negotiating, and check in on what tips can make you a better negotiator.

Making A Low Offer Without Being Insulting

Frank Rolfe — Thu, 10 Jun 2021 01:00:00 -0600

Many sellers avoid making low-ball offers out of fear of insulting the seller. That can often mean you’ll miss out on great deals because you didn’t take the shot. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to go over the methods to make low offers without insulting sellers and to forge win/win deals that will make both parties satisfied. As you’ll hear, there’s more to making an offer than just giving a price, and taking the time to make these low offers can be the foundation for extremely effective RV park deal making.

When Should You Start Refinancing?

Frank Rolfe — Thu, 03 Jun 2021 01:00:00 -0600

Getting a loan is stressful, and many borrowers put it off too long. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to discuss the correct timetable to finding a new loan when your current one is expiring. Since real estate requires leverage to maximize return, it’s important that we all understand and respect the lending system and how to approach it in a smart manner.

No Pain No Gain

Frank Rolfe — Wed, 19 May 2021 01:00:00 -0600

Teddy Roosevelt once said “nothing in the world is worth having or worth doing unless it means effort, pain or difficulty”. While Roosevelt never owned an RV park (although he did enjoy camping), his thoughts are as accurate today as they were over a century ago. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to explore the correlation between effort and progress and isolate what areas you should apply the most effort to.

What Happens When A Seller Refuses To Share Their Tax Returns?

Frank Rolfe — Thu, 06 May 2021 01:00:00 -0600

While every RV park owner files an annual tax return, some refuse to share those with the potential buyer and their lender. So what happens when the RV park owner refuses to provide these important documents? In this RV Park Mastery podcast, we’re going to review the impact of lacking tax returns when buying a property and how to use that as a tool to perhaps forge a better deal.

The Dangers of Bad Employees

Frank Rolfe — Thu, 22 Apr 2021 01:00:00 -0600

In a modern America there is nothing more dangerous from a liability perspective than having employees. While they can create value, they can also be a toxic danger to your business. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to discuss the perils of having bad employees and the damage they can do to your business, as well as strategies to mitigate this risk.

Understanding The Impact of Inflation on RV Park Investing

Frank Rolfe — Thu, 08 Apr 2021 01:00:00 -0600

There is continual talk of greater inflation on the horizon, which then begs the question “what would the potential impact be to RV parks?” In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to review what inflation would do to RV park investing – both good and bad – and what investors can do to mitigate the risks. With the government continually printing more money, it’s a topic that should be on all RV park investors’ minds.

Lessons Learned From Failed RV Parks

Frank Rolfe — Thu, 25 Mar 2021 01:00:00 -0600

Most RV parks are successful, but there are some that just don’t work out for any owner. So what are the attributes that make an RV park a loser, and can those be fixed? That’s the topic of this RV Park Mastery podcast. We’re going to explore what qualities make RV parks too dangerous to handle, as well as strategies to mitigate those risks. Since the whole goal of buying an RV park is to make money and have a happy life it’s imperative to acknowledge what could potentially stand in the way.

Understanding Mom And Pop Sellers

Frank Rolfe — Wed, 10 Mar 2021 01:00:00 -0700

Many of the best RV park deals involve sellers who are the original builders of the RV park – and these are commonly known as “mom and pops”. But what makes them unique and what do you need to know about working with this select group? In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to review the typical attributes of mom and pop sellers, and how to position yourself as a buyer for maximum success. These are the people who built America, and they are interested in helping you – if you approach them properly.

Options For Greater Income Stability

Frank Rolfe — Thu, 25 Feb 2021 01:00:00 -0700

With the demand for RV parks so strong, many owners are taking advantage of the unparalleled demand to create new streams of income – some of which offer superior stability. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to explore the best of these ideas and how any RV park owner can create a strong stream of income with some creative methods to harness the demand for all-things RV.

Should You Self-Manage?

Frank Rolfe — Thu, 11 Feb 2021 01:00:00 -0700

One of the attractions to buying an RV park – for many owners – is to “self-manage” the property. But is this the right choice for you? In this episode of the RV Park Mastery podcast, we’re going to explore what it’s like to self-manage an RV park and some of the issues that should be considered in making that decision.

The Government Really Wants You To Buy An RV Park - So Let Them

Frank Rolfe — Thu, 28 Jan 2021 01:00:00 -0700

The SBA and USDA are offering programs to help you finance buying an RV park using small business loans. The terms are incredibly attractive – so good that it would appear the U.S. government is bent on making you an RV park owner. So let them. Or at least understand the options available.

Signs, Signs, Everywhere A Sign

Frank Rolfe — Thu, 14 Jan 2021 01:00:00 -0700

The 1970s brought us many classic rock anthems including “Signs, Signs, Everywhere a Sign” – but I’m sure the writers of the song never thought of it’s apt description in RV parks. In this episode of the RV Park Mastery podcast, we’re going to drill down on proper signage in RV parks including what it is, where to get it, and how to keep the cost low. From property appearance to proper marketing, every RV park owner needs to know about signs.

The Simple Way To Make Good Decisions On Buying An RV Park

Frank Rolfe — Thu, 31 Dec 2020 01:00:00 -0700

Buying an RV Park – like buying any asset – is a stressful experience filled with doubts and concerns. However, there is an easy way to get around this hurdle and make informed, accurate decisions that you can feel good about. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to discuss a simple method we developed years ago to make buying an RV Park a scientific decision based on math and risk assessment and not just gut feel. If you’re buying an RV Park, you want to learn this method.

White Lab Coats Needed

Frank Rolfe — Thu, 17 Dec 2020 01:00:00 -0700

Science is defined as “the intellectual and practical activity encompassing the systematic study of the structure and behavior of the physical and natural world through observation and experiment”. So how can you apply that lofty goal to RV parks? In this episode of the RV Park Mastery podcast series, we’re going to drill down on the science of evaluating RV parks and bringing factual discipline to the emotional process of investing.

RVP Appraisals

Frank Rolfe — Thu, 03 Dec 2020 01:00:00 -0700

There are several valuation methods that appraisers use – and we’re going to review each of them on this episode of the RV Park Mastery podcast. Between the cost approach, comparable sales approach and income approach, each has its place and some are more important than others. Since the goal of buying an RV park is to arrive at the fair price, understanding appraisals and their methods is a key part of the purchasing process.

All About Contracts

Frank Rolfe — Thu, 19 Nov 2020 01:00:00 -0700

We hope that all sellers abide by “my word is my bond” but we all know that’s rarely the case. Instead, we have to write lengthy legal contracts to ensure that things go as planned. And one key component to any RV park purchase contract is the “specific performance” provision. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to discuss this rarely-mentioned contract item, and why it’s an essential piece to any legal document. As you’ll see, it’s little things like “specific performance” that can make a contract truly binding or not.

Gypsy Traveler

Frank Rolfe — Thu, 05 Nov 2020 01:00:00 -0700

When I first got into the business, I was told about the “gypsy traveler” RV park scam. And recently I have been getting calls from people who were unaware of this age-old way to part a fool and their money. In this episode of the RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to review what a “gypsy traveler” scam is, how to watch out for them, why they work on unsuspecting buyers, and how to make sure your deal is real and not a forgery.

Enough But Not Too Much Adequate Cushion In Budgeting

Frank Rolfe — Thu, 22 Oct 2020 05:00:00 -0600

“You can never be too rich or too thin” is a popular expression. However, that’s just not a reasonable goal for most investors. While it’s great to have a safety cushion, it’s unreasonable for that cushion to be limitless. So how can you assess how much to hold in reserve, and to allocate the correct amount of net income to let you be happy but not miss out on an RV park deal? That’s the focus of this RV Park Mastery podcast. In a world in which problems seem to lurk behind every corner, it’s important to keep yourself reasonably protected – but not taking it to an extreme.

The Anatomy Of Zero Down Deals

Frank Rolfe — Wed, 07 Oct 2020 23:00:00 -0600

Most RV park deals are built on the framework of 20% to 30% down payment on the price of the property. However, sometimes you can go lower. Much lower. In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to discuss how “zero down” or “low down” deals come to be, and what the tools and traits are to make these deals possible. We’ve done around twelve “zero down” deals and we have identified four characteristics that make these a viable alternative to traditional financing.

The Impact of The Presidential Election on RV Parks

Frank Rolfe — Thu, 24 Sep 2020 00:00:00 -0600

In less than 45 days the United States will hold a Presidential election, as well as many other federal and state offices. Elections are always a time of concern: how will the winner impact RV park investments? In this RV park mastery podcase, we discuss the real facts behind the issues that could impact RV parks, and what the best and worst case might hold on these various items. Whether you are a Republican or Democrat, this podcast will shine light on what you need to know regardless of who wins in November.

Lessons Learned From My Pinball Machine

Frank Rolfe — Wed, 09 Sep 2020 23:00:00 -0600

I have an old 1950s pinball machine in my house that serves two purposes 1) entertainment and 2) a constant reminder about the facts of investing. I believe that this game – titled “Super Circus” – can give more investing wisdom with one nickel than Warren Buffett can in an entire book. So what are the lessons learned? In this RV Park Mastery podcast we’re going to discuss the key lessons my old pinball machine teaches, and how those apply to successful RV park investing.

How Big Is Big Enough?

Frank Rolfe — Tue, 25 Aug 2020 02:00:00 -0600

Is ten spaces enough? What about 100? What size is essential in buying an RV park? That’s the topic of this RV Park Mastery podcast – an examination of size vs. success in RV park buying. As you’ll see, there are many permutations in the algorithm of correct RV park size and only you can decide the correct answer on many of these. While bigger is sometimes better, that’s not always the case here.

How To Think Like A Banker

Frank Rolfe — Wed, 12 Aug 2020 23:00:00 -0600

We all like to emulate certain people – and one that you should definitely want to be like is your banker. If you can think like a banker, you’ll go far with your RV park career. So why is that important and how do you do it? In this episode of the RV Park Mastery podcast series, we’re going to discuss how smart RV park owners try to mirror the desires of their banker and share the same thought patterns.

The Top 3 Action Steps To Being A Smarter RV Park Seller

Frank Rolfe — Wed, 29 Jul 2020 23:00:00 -0600

You may not even own an RV park yet, but you eventually will, and at some point it will come time to sell it. In this episode of the RV Park Mastery podcast, we’re going to review the top 3 action steps to maximize your sales price and better ensure that you get top dollar as well as a faster closing. Since the price you achieve will tell the tale on your total overall return for the RV park it’s essential that you do as good a job in selling as you did in buying and operating.

The Top 3 Action Steps To Being A Smarter RV Park Operator

Frank Rolfe — Thu, 16 Jul 2020 23:00:00 -0600

One of the key goals to buying an RV park is to maximize your return on investment. So how do you do that? In this episode of the RV Park Mastery podcast, we’re going to drill down on the top 3 action steps that smart operators take to increase revenue, decrease cost, and stay on top of all things financial with their property. If an increasing income stream is the goal, then this podcast is all about getting the highest return on your money.

The Top 3 Action Steps To Being A Smarter RV Park Buyer

Frank Rolfe — Sat, 04 Jul 2020 10:00:00 -0600

In most real estate investing you make your money on the front-end, with your selection of property and your assessment of its traits and financial performance. RV parks are no different. So how can you buy an RV park in the smartest way possible, giving you the best chance of success with the least amount of risk? In this podcast we discuss the Top 3 Action Steps in successfully buying an RV park.

Types of Debt and How to Get Them

Frank Rolfe — Wed, 17 Jun 2020 02:00:00 -0600

To hit impressive rates of return, all real estate is contingent on the use of sensible leverage. So how do you get a loan to buy an RV park? In this episode we review the various types of financing available for RV park acquisitions and discuss how to successfully obtain them, as well. Since debt is an important part of every purchase, the sooner you know the options and how to select the correct one, the better.

Rates of Return Explained

Frank Rolfe — Wed, 17 Jun 2020 01:00:00 -0600

All forms of real estate are measured by rates-of-return, and RV parks are no different. In this episode we review all of the standard RV park performance metrics and explain how to calculate each one. Since it’s a competitive world when it comes to how you choose to invest your money, this episode will give you greater clarity on this unique investment option. You also need to have a firm handle on these terms when you start hitting banks and looking for financing.

Why Invest In An RV Park?

Frank Rolfe — Wed, 17 Jun 2020 00:00:00 -0600

While millions of Americans own an RV, very few people own the RV parks. And this scarcity has created a profitable opportunity for those who understand the business model and have the desire to make high levels of return. There’s also a component of enjoyment, as many RV parks owners choose to live on-site and leave their less happy work life in the past. If you’ve ever wondered about RV park investing, then here’s your chance to learn how it works.