Young Investors Scale 24-Unit Portfolio Using AI Tools NOW

UPDATE: Childhood friends Connor Swofford and Pieter Louw have rapidly expanded their real estate portfolio to 24 units in Buffalo, utilizing cutting-edge AI tools that allow them to manage their investments with minimal time commitment. Just months into their journey, they are redefining how young investors can thrive in the competitive rental market.

Just announced, the duo began their real estate venture in October 2024 and have already achieved remarkable success. The friends emphasize that despite their rapid growth, they treat real estate investing as a low-lift side hustle. Swofford, a startup consultant living in Charleston, dedicates no more than two hours per week to their portfolio while Louw, a Buffalo-based real estate agent, spends around 10 hours on-site managing properties.

Their innovative approach combines their unique skills: Louw focuses on construction and property management, while Swofford streamlines operations and organization. “The partnership has kind of flourished,” Louw stated, highlighting how their initial fun project has evolved into a significant endeavor.

The friends attribute much of their success to a strategic “software stack” costing only $20 a month, which includes three essential AI tools:

1. **Baselane**: This platform serves as their primary tool for automated banking, bookkeeping, and rent collection. Swofford noted, “All of our rent collecting happens there; they notify me if someone has not paid.” Baselane also helps them analyze property performance and make informed decisions, steering them away from less profitable duplexes to focus on larger multi-family properties.

2. **Asana**: Using the free version of this work management platform, Swofford and Louw assign tasks to contractors and manage renovation projects. They apply the BRRRR method (Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, Repeat) to maximize value from their properties.

3. **ChatGPT**: This AI tool assists in various tasks, from crafting emails to problem-solving during challenging situations like evictions. Swofford remarked, “That’s literally all we have. We pay $20 a month for Baselane, and everything else is free.”

The duo’s goal is to leverage these AI tools to enhance their landlord experience, ensuring quick responses to tenant needs and fostering positive relationships. Louw believes that treating tenants well leads to better care for the properties: “When they see that you’re respecting them, they tend to be respectful back as well.”

With their sights set on keeping real estate as a side hustle, Swofford and Louw plan to use their profits for vacations, retirement savings, and their children’s education. As they continue to grow their portfolio, their story serves as an inspiring example for aspiring investors looking to enter the market with limited time and resources.

Stay tuned for more updates on their journey as they navigate the evolving landscape of real estate investment.