Benjamin Stef - The Lending Strategies Real Estate Investors Are Using in 2026

Most investors focus on finding the next deal—but the way you structure your financing can make or break your ability to scale.In this episode of the Real Estate Educators Podcast, Kevin Amolsch sits down with Benjamin Stef to discuss creative lending strategies, DSCR loans, HELOCs, building momentum, and what separates successful investors from those who quit.Ben shares how growing up in an entrepreneurial real estate family shaped the way he thinks about investing and lending. After starting his lending career during COVID and surviving one of the toughest interest rate shifts in history, Ben explains why focusing on the right daily activities and avoiding “shiny object syndrome” are critical for long-term success.They also break down creative financing options investors may not know exist—including DSCR loans, investor HELOCs, non-QM lending, and strategies to access capital without selling properties or giving up low interest rates.If you’re looking to grow your portfolio, unlock equity, or understand how successful investors think about financing, this episode is packed with valuable insights.TIMESTAMPS00:00 - Growing up around real estate and entrepreneurship07:05 - Starting a lending career during COVID09:24 - Surviving the interest rate shift when others quit18:04 - Finding your “why” and refusing to quit20:40 What is non-QM lending?24:45 - Hosting events and building relationships through education29:15 - Why every investor needs to pick a nicheConnect with Benjamin Stef:YouTube: Funding Freedom – Ben StefWebsite: FundingFreedom.netLearn more about creative financing, DSCR loans, investor lending strategies, and ways to leverage equity to grow your real estate portfolio.Learn more about Pine Financial Group:pinefinancialgroup.comHosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.