In this episode of The Norris Group Real Estate Podcast, Joey Romero is joined by Craig Evans, CEO of The Norris Group, and Douglas Brooke Homes for an in-depth discussion on the upcoming Florida Bootcamp and the current state of the Florida real estate market. The conversation covers key macro trends driving migration into Florida, including domestic vs. international population shifts, the long-term outlook for housing demand, and how rising interest rates and insurance changes have reshaped buyer behavior. The team also breaks down their current build-to-rent model, highlighting affordability-driven construction, stable cash flow projections, and why new construction continues to outperform aging rental stock in today’s market.

They also dive into the structure of the Florida Bootcamp itself—what attendees can expect over two days, from classroom-style learning and migration data analysis to on-site property tours and one-on-one strategy sessions. The episode emphasizes the Norris Group’s hands-on approach, including vetted land acquisition, funds control protections, and a fully managed construction and leasing process designed to reduce risk for investors.

Craig Evans is the CEO of The Norris Group, where he oversees investment strategy, development projects, and investor education initiatives focused on real estate opportunities in high-growth markets like Southwest Florida. Douglas Brooke Holmes is part of the leadership team at The Norris Group, contributing to development oversight, operations, and investor relations. Joey Romero is a host and representative of The Norris Group Podcast, focused on delivering insights from industry leaders and market experts.

Learn more about the Florida Real Estate Investing Bootcamp here:
https://thenorrisgroup.com/event/florida-real-estate-investing-bootcamp-2026

In this episode:

• Joey introduces the Norris Group Podcast and sets up the discussion on the Florida Bootcamp
• Overview of the upcoming Florida Bootcamp and why it is being relaunched
• Breakdown of Florida migration trends: domestic slowdown vs. continued international inflows
• Impact of remote work, hurricanes, insurance shifts, and rising home prices on migration patterns
• Why Florida’s population continues to grow despite a “migration boom slowdown”
• How migration is driving long-term rental demand in the state
• Introduction to the “1515 model” build-to-rent strategy
• Breakdown of project costs, land acquisition, construction pricing, and rental assumptions
• Expected cash flow, NOI, and cap rate (~5.12%) and why appreciation is treated as upside only
• Discussion of affordability as the core strategy shift in today’s market
• Why new construction reduces risk (no rehab, no inherited tenants, predictable costs)
• Comparison of Florida investment model vs. BRRRR strategy
• Role of funds control, insurance partners, and vetted land acquisition
• Overview of build timelines: permitting (~45–65 days after process starts) and construction (~7 months after permit in conservative estimates)
• Rental absorption expectations (typically 30–60 days when priced correctly)
• Bootcamp structure: classroom education, field tours of build sites, and one-on-one investor meetings
• Who this strategy is for: active investors, W-2 professionals, and 1031 exchange participants
• Pricing, discounts for spouses/partners, and rebate option for investors who build
• Q&A discussion covering insurance stability, permitting timelines, ADUs, lot types, and competition
• Final thoughts on Florida wealth migration, economic growth drivers, and long-term demand outlook

The Norris Group originates and services loans in California and Florida under California DRE License 01219911, Florida Mortgage Lender License 1577, and NMLS License 1623669. For more information

In this episode, Joey Romero continues his conversation with Sarah Ayala of Tower Agency, diving into her approach to mentorship, team building, and navigating today’s unpredictable real estate market. Sarah shares how she developed an 8-week mentorship program designed to equip new agents with the mindset, systems, and lead generation strategies needed for long-term success. She also discusses the importance of vulnerability, consistency on social media, and finding balance while managing both personal production and leadership responsibilities. With insights on today’s “emotional market,” this episode offers valuable guidance for agents, buyers, and investors looking to adapt and thrive.

Sarah Ayala is a Broker Associate and Director of Talent and Growth at Tower Agency. Since entering the real estate industry in 2015, she has specialized in helping first-time home buyers and sellers achieve their goals with confidence and care. Sarah holds a California Broker’s License—the highest credential in the state—and a Bachelor of Business Administration from California State University. She is dedicated to guiding clients through one of the most significant decisions of their lives, providing clarity, professionalism, and personalized support every step of the way.

In this episode:

• Joey welcomes back Sarah Ayala, Broker Associate with Tower Agency (Part 2).
• Sarah shares the inspiration behind building an 8-week mentorship program for new agents.
• Why mindset, goal setting, and time blocking are the foundation of success in real estate.
• Proven lead generation strategies—from traditional methods to social media and AI.
• How vulnerability and authenticity help attract and retain talent.
• Balancing personal production while mentoring and leading a growing team.
• Common challenges new agents face, including mindset, consistency, and managing client emotions.
• Insights into today’s “emotional” and unpredictable housing market.
• Advice for buyers and sellers waiting for the “perfect” opportunity.
• Where current opportunities exist, from first-time home buyers to the luxury market.
• Top tips for new agents: mentorship, consistency, and focusing on what works.
• The importance of community involvement and building genuine connections.

The Norris Group originates and services loans in California and Florida under California DRE License 01219911, Florida Mortgage Lender License 1577, and NMLS License 1623669. For more information on hard money lending, go www.thenorrisgroup.com and click the Hard Money tab.


Video Link

Radio Show

In this episode, Joey Romero sits down with Sarah Ayala of Tower Agency to explore the insights and strategies first-time home buyers, sellers, and real estate investors need to know. From navigating the buying process with confidence to understanding market trends and investment opportunities, Sarah breaks down complex real estate concepts into practical, actionable advice. She also shares how she transitioned into leadership in real estate talent and growth, and why building relationships and trust is key to long-term success in the industry.


Sarah Ayala is a Broker Associate and Director of Talent and Growth at Tower Agency. Since entering the real estate industry in 2015, she has specialized in helping first-time home buyers and sellers achieve their goals with confidence and care. Sarah holds a California Broker’s License—the highest credential in the state—and a Bachelor of Business Administration from California State University. She is dedicated to guiding clients through one of the most significant decisions of their lives, providing clarity, professionalism, and personalized support every step of the way.

In this episode:
-Joey welcomes Sarah Ayala, Broker Associate with Tower Agency.
-Sarah shares how her childhood home and family influenced her passion for real estate.
-The challenges and lessons from her first year in the industry.
-The role of kindness, confidence, and service in every transaction.
-How social media, Instagram Stories, and DMs became her main business driver.
-Tips for building authentic connections with clients online.
-Insights on working with investors and handling distressed properties.
-Why providing education, options, and transparency is key to investor relationships.

The Norris Group originates and services loans in California and Florida under California DRE License 01219911, Florida Mortgage Lender License 1577, and NMLS License 1623669. For more information on hard money lending, go www.thenorrisgroup.com and click the Hard Money tab.


Video Link

Radio Show