n this eye-opening episode, we dive deep into a rarely discussed yet critical issue in commercial real estate: conflicts of interest when investment sales brokers push buyers toward in-house mortgage brokers. What may seem like a convenient “one-stop shop” can, in reality, disadvantage the buyer — sometimes significantly. Using a poker analogy, we paint a vivid picture: what if the seller and broker knew your hand? That’s essentially what happens when the sales and financing sides are too cozy — split loyalties, hidden fees, and lost leverage for buyers. This episode is a masterclass in buyer awareness. Paul Peebles doesn’t just point out the problems—he offers real-world strategies to protect yourself. His comparison to poker isn’t just clever, it’s chillingly accurate. In commercial real estate, where millions are at stake, understanding who’s really on your team can make or break a deal.
Conflicts of Interest Are Real
Many investment sales brokers recommend their own firm’s mortgage team. This can result in referral fees and biased advice that puts the buyer at a disadvantage.
Ask the Hard Questions
Transparency is key. Buyers should directly ask brokers:
• “Are you getting paid to refer me?”
• “Do you have any financial stake in this lender relationship?”
Use an Independent Team
Securing the best deal often requires working with independent mortgage brokers, attorneys, and advisors who have your interests—not the seller’s—at heart.
Think Long Term
Your relationship with your lender doesn’t end at closing. Choose partners who will support you throughout the life of the loan—not just get the deal done.
Know the Law (and the Loopholes)
While these referral practices are illegal in residential real estate under RESPA, there’s no such restriction in commercial deals. That makes buyer vigilance even more important.
One standout message: Don’t be afraid to stand your ground. Most brokers will respect your decision to bring your own financing team—if they don’t, that’s a red flag in itself.
Are you ready to unlock the potential of Multifamily Syndications? Discover how Michael Becker’s proven real estate syndication business can open doors to financial growth and your long-term success. Visit SPIADVISORY.COM today and start your journey toward smarter investing!
Popular Podcasts
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
My Favorite Murder with Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark
My Favorite Murder is a true crime comedy podcast hosted by Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark. Each week, Karen and Georgia share compelling true crimes and hometown stories from friends and listeners. Since MFM launched in January of 2016, Karen and Georgia have shared their lifelong interest in true crime and have covered stories of infamous serial killers like the Night Stalker, mysterious cold cases, captivating cults, incredible survivor stories and important events from history like the Tulsa race massacre of 1921. My Favorite Murder is part of the Exactly Right podcast network that provides a platform for bold, creative voices to bring to life provocative, entertaining and relatable stories for audiences everywhere. The Exactly Right roster of podcasts covers a variety of topics including historic true crime, comedic interviews and news, science, pop culture and more. Podcasts on the network include Buried Bones with Kate Winkler Dawson and Paul Holes, That's Messed Up: An SVU Podcast, This Podcast Will Kill You, Bananas and more.