Groundbreakers: Episode 43 - Luis Frias, Founder of CalTex Capital Group

Groundbreakers: Episode 43 - Luis Frias, Founder of CalTex Capital Group

The forty-third episode of Groundbreakers Podcast by Homebase! Listen in for an amazing interview with Luis Frias, Founder of CalTex Capital Group

Domingo Valadez

Jan 2, 2025

Podcast

Episode Summary

In this episode of Groundbreakers, Luis Frias, founder of Caltex Capital Group, shares his journey from a career in real estate brokerage to becoming a multifamily investor with over 700 units and $100M in assets under management. Luis opens up about how his background in underwriting deals helped him confidently transition into multifamily investing and why Texas remains a top market for real estate opportunities. He also dives into his strategies for adding value to properties, navigating market challenges, and building a resilient real estate business.

To listen to this episode, follow this link to Groundbreakers on Spotify!

Key Points Discussed

• From Brokerage to Multifamily Investing: How Luis leveraged his brokerage experience to transition into multifamily real estate, reviewing hundreds of deals to gain confidence before launching Caltex Capital Group.
• Texas as a Multifamily Powerhouse: Insights into why Texas markets like San Antonio and Houston are primed for growth, driven by population influx and a strong job market.
• Fixed-Rate Debt and Risk Management: Luis emphasizes the importance of securing fixed-rate debt to weather economic shifts and protect investors.
• Value-Add Strategies: Innovative ways Luis and his team increase NOI, from valet trash services to bulk Wi-Fi packages, enhancing tenant experience while boosting profitability.
• The Importance of Relationships: A firsthand account of how Luis’s network saved a crucial project after a contractor issue threatened to derail progress.

Guest Information

• Name: Luis Frias
• Role: Founder of Caltex Capital Group
• LinkedIn: Luis Frias
• Website: Caltex Capital Group

Conclusion

Luis Frias’s story is a testament to the power of calculated risks, strategic relationships, and staying adaptable in a competitive real estate market. His focus on adding value, managing risk, and building a strong network provides valuable lessons for anyone looking to scale in real estate investing. Connect with Luis to learn more about his journey and the success of Caltex Capital Group.

DOMINGO VALADEZ is the co-founder at Homebase and a former product strategy manager at Google.