Longship Ventures

Founder

Northwestern Mutual

Financial Representative

US Army

Signals Intelligence Analyst

Helping hardworking people create a lasting legacy ⁃ 8x Dad of the Year ⁃ Husband ⁃ Veteran

Hey there, thanks for stopping by. 

I appreciate you giving me your most valuable commodity: your time and attention.

My name is David.

Who I Am:
- Ohio native, currently residing in Dayton, OH.
- Former Division 1 wrestler (2x NCAA National Tournament qualifier).
- Served 8 years as a Military Intelligence Collector/Analyst for the U.S. Army.
- Farsi language qualified with a combat tour in Afghanistan.
- Medically retired after a training accident during one of the Army's toughest courses.

My Journey:
- Graduated magna cum laude with a Master’s in Real Estate from Georgetown University in 2023.
- Transitioning my discipline and resilience into the real estate space.

My Mission:
- Helping hardworking people make their money work even harder.
- Creating lasting legacies through real estate syndication.

Let’s Connect:
If you're interested in investing, collaborating, or sharing ideas, reach out. 
I would love to hear about your journey

Real estate success? It's all in your head.

How I leveraged these 3 lessons to conquer my own mindset:


⇨ Embrace the Suck
In the army, you need to thrive in chaos.
Real estate is no different.

Deals fall through.
Negotiations get tense.
Market conditions shift overnight.

But outside your comfort zone is where real growth happens.

⇨ Develop unwavering discipline
Motivation fades. Discipline doesn't.
When your motivation faulters, 
Discipline is what takes over and keeps you moving forward.

Now, I apply that to my real estate business:
🗸 Daily market research
🗸 Diligent underwriting
🗸 Altruistic networking
🗸 Relentless follow-ups

Success isn't about grand gestures.
It's about small, disciplined actions compounded over time.
(C'Jon Armstead knows what I mean)

⇨ Cultivate resilience
Setbacks are inevitable.
Like Mike Tyson said
“Everyone has a plan till they get hit in the face”

But here's the truth:

Failure isn't fatal.
It's feedback.

Every "no" brings you closer to a "yes."
Every mistake is a lesson in disguise.
Adapt and overcome.

Starting a real estate business isn't for the faint-hearted.
It's for those who can keep their chin down, hands up
And roll with the punches.

Remember:

Your mindset is your most valuable tool.
Cultivate it with intensity.

My service has already equipped me with the mental fortitude to succeed.
Now, it's time to apply it.


What challenges have you faced that tested your mental toughness?
How did you overcome them?



AIRBORNE!

David Wade

Exit strategies can make or break your real estate deal.

How 3 key factors determine your success:


1. Timing is everything

Your exit strategy isn't a backup plan—it's your primary objective 

Why?

Because it dictates:
➛ When you'll sell
➛ To whom you'll sell
➛ At what price you'll sell

2. Multiple exit options = flexibility

Smart planners always have a Plan B (and C, and D).

Consider:
➛ Refinancing
➛ Selling to another investor
➛ Converting to condos

Each option opens new doors and mitigates risk.

3. Market conditions are unpredictable

Today's hot market could be tomorrow's cold shower.

Your exit strategy should account for:
➛ Economic cycles
➛ Interest rate fluctuations
➛ Demographic shifts

Remember: Hope is not a strategy.

The hard truth?

Many people focus solely on the acquisition, neglecting the exit.

This is a mistake.

People aren't just investing into your vision—they're investing into your ability to deliver returns.

And returns come at exit.

So, how do you craft a bulletproof exit strategy?

1. Start with the end in mind
2. Analyze multiple scenarios
3. Build in contingencies
4. Communicate clearly with investors

The bottom line:
A well-crafted exit strategy isn't just about profits—it's about responsibility.

It's about:

➛ Protecting your investors' hard-earned money
➛ Delivering on your promises
➛ Contributing positively to the community

When you prioritize thoughtful exits, you're not just building wealth.
You're building trust.
You're creating value.
You're impacting communities.

Remember:
Real estate isn't just about buildings.
It's about people.
Your exit strategy should reflect that.

What's your go-to exit strategy?
How has it evolved with experience?

Resilience is the secret weapon of successful entrepreneurs.

How did I discover this? Through 3 hard-learned lessons.


Being a soldier, I've faced my share of challenges. But nothing prepared me for the rollercoaster of entrepreneurship.

Here's what I've learned about building resilience:

1. Self-care isn't selfish, it's strategic

In the military, we pushed our limits daily. But in business, burnout is the enemy.

Now, I prioritize:
✓ 7-8 hours of sleep
✓ Gym 4x a week, Judo 2x
✓ 5 minutes of morning affirmations

Result? Sharper focus, better decisions, increased productivity.

2. Get uncomfortable, it's where growth happens

Comfort zones are overrated. Real progress comes from pushing boundaries.

I challenge myself to:
￫ Posting about me and my journey 5 days a week
￫ Meeting 3 new people a week (want to get on a call?)
￫ Learn 1 new skill monthly

Discomfort builds confidence. Confidence fuels resilience.

3. Celebrate small wins, they fuel big victories

In real estate, big deals can take time. But small wins happen daily.

I've learned to celebrate:
￫ Every successful networking call
￫ Each new connection made
￫ Any positive feedback received

These minor victories compound into major momentum.

Remember: Resilience isn't about avoiding failure. It's about bouncing back stronger.

By prioritizing self-care, embracing discomfort, and celebrating small wins, you'll develop the resilience to weather any storm.

Your success in real estate (or anything really) depends on it.

What's your strategy for resilience? 



Apparently on this day, mine was to take a nap in my locker

Authenticity Unlocks Your True Leadership Potential

How 3 key principles can redefine your success.

Being authentic isn't just a catchphrase—it's the foundation of success.

Here's why it matters:

1. Trust is your most valuable asset
  ‣ In the military, trust meant survival
  ‣ In real estate, it's the cornerstone of every deal
  ‣ Investors back people, not just properties

2. Vulnerability is strength, not weakness
  ‣ Admitting what you don't know opens doors to growth
  ‣ My life experience taught me to seek expertise
  ‣ Surrounding yourself with mentors accelerates learning

3. Integrity is non-negotiable
  ‣ Your word is your bond, in combat and in business
  ‣ Transparency builds long-term relationships
  ‣ One broken promise can shatter years of credibility

My transition hasn't been easy. There were moments of doubt, sleepless nights, and steep learning curves.

But here's the truth:

Your unique experiences are your superpower.

My military discipline, adaptability, and leadership skills have become my greatest assets in this new battlefield of real estate.

Remember:
‣ Authenticity attracts the right people
‣ Your journey is your competitive advantage
‣ Success is built on genuine connections

As I navigate this new terrain, I'm committed to leading with authenticity, learning constantly, and building a network based on trust and mutual growth.

What's your take on being authentic?
What do you look for in a leader?

Work-Life Balance is a Myth.

How I found 4 ways to blend family and business.

All my service member and veterans 
As well as many of you know
"Work-life balance" is misleading.
Instead, I found success in blending my professional and my personal life. 

Here’s how:


1. Shared Calendar

We use a shared family calendar. 

It’s a simple tool but incredibly effective. 

Everyone knows the important dates, planned trips, and family events. 

This way, we avoid conflicts and ensure we’re all on the same page.


2. Boundaries 

Since I work from home,

I set office hours for myself and stick to them. 

This ensures that work doesn't bleed into family time. 

When I'm at work, I’m fully engaged. 

When I’m at home, I’m present with my family. 

This clear boundary helps maintain focus and reduces stress.


3. Family Involvement

Involve your family in your business. 

My spouse helps with marketing ideas and my kids love visiting properties.

It’s not just about spending time together, but also about sharing my 
passion and letting them see firsthand what I do. 

This involvement creates a sense of teamwork and shared purpose.


4. Prioritize Self-Care

Military life taught me the importance of keeping physically and mental fit. 

I start my day with a trip to the gym and end it with bedtime stories with the kids. 

This routine keeps me grounded and disciplined.

Ready to tackle the demands that life (and my kids) throw at me.


↳ The Reality Check

Blending work and family isn’t always smooth. 

There are missed dinners, late-night calls, and weekends sacrificed. 

But here’s the key thing: it’s about quality, not quantity. 

The moments you spend with your family, even if fewer, can be richer and more meaningful.


↳ Why It Matters

In the end, 

What’s the point of success if it costs you your happiness?
 
By blending work and family life, 

I’ve found a way to achieve my goals without sacrificing what matters most.


In real estate, as in life, it's about finding harmony, not balance.


What ways have you found to synergize what you love to do with whom you love?



Family and doughnuts, doesn't get much better!

Create Your Own Bank

How you can build your own system with these 3 steps

Need a strategy that offers control, liquidity, and growth? 
Enter the Infinite Banking Concept (IBC). 
Here’s how you can leverage it to create your own personal banking system.

1: Establish Your Infinite Banking Structure

High cash value whole life insurance policy is the name of the game. 

Don’t think of it as just insurance.

It’s a cash saving powerhouse. 

It grows tax-deferred and provides a reservoir of capital I can borrow against at any time. 

This means you can fund real estate deals without the hassle of traditional bank loans.

(Brandon Jenkins is a licensed practitioner, message him if you would like to learn more)

2: Leverage the Policy for Real Estate Investments

When your policy is in place, 

You can began borrowing against its cash value to invest. 

The beauty of this system? 

The cash value continues to grow even while I’m using it. 

This dual growth mechanism allows you to expand your investments while 
your policy’s value compounds.

3: Recycle and Grow

Most policy loans are simple interest calculated annually. 

This means that you can make interest-only payments until capital is returned.

This creates a continuous cycle of borrowing and repaying, 

Which keeps your money working for you. 


Why Infinite Banking Works for Real Estate

↣ Liquidity and Control: Quick access to funds without traditional loan constraints.

↣ Tax Advantages: Tax-free growth and tax-free loans.

↣ Multipurpose Use of Dollars: Funds grow within the policy while being used for investments.

↣ Estate Planning: The policy’s death benefit provides a financial safety net for my family.

It’s not just about buying properties; 
It’s about creating a sustainable, self-replenishing financial system. 
It’s about leaving a lasting legacy.

I am not a financial advisor,
I am an advocate for this concept and think it has its place
Consult a licensed professional to see if this system is right for you.

What are other alternative ways you are financing deals?
Have you looked into creating your own bank?

Happy Independence day

I am proud to be an American!

Take a minute between bites of BBQ
And sips of your cold one

Think about:

- The freedoms we enjoy

- Those who sacrificed everything so we can have these freedoms

- The ability to pursue the American Dream in your own way


Remember:

This is the land of the free

BECAUSE of the brave

Risk is inevitable. Mitigation is essential.

Here are 5 key steps for identifying potential risks. 

As an Army veteran stepping into the world of commercial real estate 
I’ve know that assessing risk is not just a skill—it's a necessity. 

Here’s how I approach it:

1️⃣ Property Evaluation
Start with the basics. Assess the property’s location, condition, and history. A thorough appraisal ensures the property’s value aligns with the loan amount. Remember, prime locations with solid histories are less risky.

2️⃣ Financial Analysis
Dive deep into the numbers. 
Analyze income potential, operating expenses, and cash flow projections. Understand if the property can cover expenses and service debt.

3️⃣ Market Analysis
Understand market dynamics. 
Evaluate supply and demand, competition, and future trends. 
A strong market can mitigate risks during economic downturns.

4️⃣ Partnerships
Teaming up with like-minded investors is crucial. 
Sharing risk allows for more aggressive acquisitions. 
Collaboration enhances decision-making capabilities and risk distribution.

5️⃣ Risk Mitigation Strategies
Develop systems to mitigate identified risks. 
This includes securing insurance, 
A healthy reserve for unexpected expenses 
Or structuring deals to minimize exposure.

In real estate, risk is a given. But with a meticulous underwriting process, we turn potential pitfalls into growth opportunities. Let’s navigate this journey together, one calculated step at a time.

Did I miss anything?

How do you assess risk during underwriting?

Success Starts in Your Mind

How 5 mindset shifts can transform your real estate career:


1. Embrace the learning curve

As a veteran entering real estate, you've already conquered tough challenges. 
This is just another mission.

Every setback is a chance to grow stronger.
Every obstacle is an opportunity to innovate.

2. Focus on service, not self

Put others' needs first.
Your success will follow naturally.

Develop a reputation for going above and beyond.
Word will spread faster than any marketing campaign.

3. Cultivate an abundance mindset

The real estate market is vast.
There's plenty of opportunity for everyone.

Collaborate with peers instead of competing.
You'll build a powerful network and expand your reach.

4. Set ambitious goals, then crush them

Dream big, but start small.
Break down your vision into actionable steps.

Celebrate each milestone along the way.
Use that momentum to fuel your next achievement.

5. Never stop improving

The real estate landscape is always evolving.
Stay ahead by constantly upgrading your skills.

Attend seminars, read industry publications, seek mentors.
Your growth mindset will keep you at the cutting edge.

Remember: Your mindset gives you a unique edge.
Discipline, leadership, and adaptability are your secret weapons.

Now it's time to deploy them.


What do you do to keep your mindset honed and focused?

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