Real Estate Investor Podcast

Episode #267 - The Insurance Playbook with Ryan Thomas

Gary Lipsky Episode 267

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0:00 | 23:35

Insurance can make or break a multifamily deal, especially when markets are volatile, lender requirements are tightening, and prior claims can affect pricing for years. In this episode of the Real Estate Investor Podcast, Gary Lipsky sits down with Ryan Thomas, a commercial insurance advisor specializing in multifamily real estate, to discuss what investors need to know before buying, refinancing, or renewing coverage. Ryan explains what has changed in the commercial insurance market, why the property market is softening, and why liability coverage is becoming harder to navigate. He breaks down how Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac requirements are affecting coverage for claims, why some investors may face large retainers, and how lender requirements can create challenges. Ryan shares why working with an experienced broker matters, how underwriter relationships can influence outcomes, and how a master policy can help investors manage coverage across a portfolio. Tune in to learn how to get ahead of insurance issues before they become problems with Ryan Thomas.

Key Points From This Episode:

  • Background about Ryan and how he became a commercial insurance advisor.
  • What has changed in the insurance market for acquisitions and refinances.
  • Discover why Arizona remains a more favorable insurance market than other states.
  • Understand how agency requirements are affecting coverage.
  • Uncover what smaller investors need to consider before using agency debt.
  • Explore how prior claims and five-year loss runs can impact insurance pricing.
  • Hear why a strong insurance broker can make a major difference during acquisitions.
  • Find out what investors should review before making an offer.
  • Learn the difference between admitted and non-admitted insurance carriers.
  • Unpack the role of broker commissions, fees, and underwriter relationships.
  • How master policies work and why they can benefit multifamily portfolios.
  • Advice on what investors should look for when choosing an insurance broker.

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Arcstone Insurance Advisors

Email Ryan Thomas 

Call Ryan Thomas

Fannie Mae

Freddie Mac 

Asset Management Mastery Facebook Group
Invest Smart

Break of Day Capital
Break of Day Capital Instagram

Break of Day Capital YouTube

Gary Lipsky on LinkedIn

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