Benjamin Stef - The Lending Strategies Real Estate Investors Are Using in 2026

About this episode

Kevin Amolsch interviews Benjamin Stef about innovative lending strategies for real estate investors in 2026.

Most investors focus on finding the next deal—but the way you structure your financing can make or break your ability to scale. In this episode of the Real Estate Educators Podcast, Kevin Amolsch sits down with Benjamin Stef to discuss creative lending strategies, DSCR loans, HELOCs, building momentum, and what separates successful investors from those who quit. Ben shares how growing up in an entrepreneurial real estate family shaped the way he thinks about investing and lending. After starting his lending career during COVID and surviving one of the toughest interest rate shifts in history, Ben explains why focusing on the right daily activities and avoiding “shiny object syndrome” are critical for long-term success. They also break down creative financing options investors may not know exist—including DSCR loans, investor HELOCs, non-QM lending, and strategies to access capital without selling properties or giving up low interest rates. If you’re looking to grow your portfolio, unlock equity, or understand how successful investors think about financing, this episode is packed with valuable insights. TIMESTAMPS 00:00 - Growing up around real estate and entrepreneurship 07:05…

People in this episode

Host: Kevin Amolsch

Guest: Benjamin Stef

Topics covered

• lending strategies
• real estate investing
• financing options
• entrepreneurship
• interest rates
• portfolio growth

Keywords

• lending strategies
• DSCR loans
• HELOCs
• non-QM lending
• real estate investing
• interest rates
• financing
• portfolio growth
• entrepreneurial mindset
• creative financing

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: COVID, DSCR, HELOC, non-QM

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