Values-Driven Investing: A Recap of "Inside the Deal" with Brandon Eastman
Reading Time: 4 Minutes
Summary: While many real estate events get lost in the "granular jargon" of cap rates and IRR, the latest Investor Lab event offered something deeper. Guest Brandon Eastman (Owner of Bentley's Coffee) sat down in Salem Oregon with 45 local investors to peel back the curtain on the "man behind the brand," revealing how personal values and lifestyle design dictate his high-level investment strategy.
The Human Side of the Deal
Real estate investing is often treated like a math problem, but as any seasoned owner knows, the math only works if the strategy aligns with the person behind it. At the recent Investor Lab event, "Inside the Deal," we had the opportunity to move past the typical industry jargon and get to know the personal drivers behind Brandon Eastman.
With approximately 45 people in attendance, the room was filled with practitioners, industry partners and community members who got more than just a "how-to" guide. They received a philosophy lesson.
Brandon’s approach is rooted in personal values and a specific vision for how his investments should serve his life-not the other way around.
Strategy Beyond the Jargon
While the event touched on the technical aspects of "the deal," the real value was in the discussion of high-level strategy:
Values-First Investing: Brandon highlighted that a "good deal" on paper is a "bad deal" in reality if it doesn't align with your personal goals or risk tolerance.
Building a Sustainable Brand: The "Bentley's Coffee" brand isn't just a logo; it’s a commitment to a specific way of doing business that prioritizes long-term relationships over short-term gains and doing a few products very well.
The "Personal" Bottom Line: For Brandon, real estate is a tool for freedom. The discussion centered on how to structure deals so they provide the cash flow and flexibility needed to live life on your own terms.
