M
ike Newton, a seasoned real‑estate investor, is steering himself toward early retirement with a 26‑unit portfolio that blends single‑family homes and multi‑family rentals. His strategy hinges on a mix of conventional 30‑year mortgages, seller financing, and a proprietary “slow BRRRR” approach that prioritizes steady cash flow over rapid turnaround.
Newton’s journey began in 2018 when he purchased his first duplex in the Seattle area. Over the past decade, he has expanded from a modest $1,000 savings balance to a substantial rental empire, now centered largely in Gary, Indiana. By 2025, he owns 26 units, all acquired through a combination of traditional financing and creative seller deals.
The core of Newton’s methodology is the BRRRR model—Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, Repeat. He identifies undervalued properties, renovates them, leases them out, and then refinances to pull out his initial equity. The twist he calls “slow BRRRR” allows for a more relaxed timeline and flexible funding.
Instead of relying on short‑term hard money loans, Newton secures private capital from local investors. He structures these loans as five‑year, interest‑only agreements. For example, a recent triplex purchase was financed with a $60,000 loan at 10% interest, translating to a $500 monthly payment with no principal due. The loan can be extended up to three additional years if appraisal values fall short, and there is no prepayment penalty. This arrangement lets Newton keep the property cash‑flowing for years before executing a cash‑out refinance and repaying the lender in a lump sum.
Investors benefit from double‑digit returns with minimal involvement. The loan is recorded against the property, giving the lender a lien and a safety net: if Newton defaults, the lender can claim the asset. Because Newton typically acquires properties below market value, the risk of loss is low, and the investors enjoy a steady 10% yield with little effort.
Newton’s slow BRRRR model offers several advantages. It eliminates the pressure to complete renovations quickly, reducing the risk of costly overruns. It also allows for extended financing periods, giving the property time to appreciate and generate rental income before refinancing. The interest‑only structure keeps monthly payments low, preserving cash flow for other investments or personal expenses.
By recycling capital through this model, Newton can acquire multiple properties without constantly raising new funds. The combination of traditional mortgages, seller financing, and private, interest‑only loans provides a diversified funding mix that supports his growth strategy.
As Newton’s portfolio expands, he remains focused on maintaining high occupancy rates and maximizing cash flow. His disciplined approach to financing and renovation has positioned him on a clear path to early retirement, demonstrating how a well‑structured slow BRRRR strategy can turn modest savings into a substantial real‑estate empire.
