Episode 417: 4 Chicago Companies, 800 Doors, & 20 Years! Here's What Actually Worked with Niko Apostal

Niko Apostal, founder of Niko Collaborative and managing broker at Essex 312, joins us to share his expertise in real estate brokerage with a focus on 2-4 unit buildings! Niko starts by explaining how he got his real estate business off the ground in the early 2000s and survived the real estate crash! He provides practical tips for anyone looking to start a real estate business. Niko shares details on his first 2-unit building in Logan Square and dives deep into top "gotchas" when purchasing 2-4 unit buildings. He closes with a bullish outlook on Chicago particularly the areas surrounding the United Center! If you enjoy today's episode, please leave us a review and share with someone who may also find value in this content! ============= Connect with Mark and Tom: StraightUpChicagoInvestor.com Email the Show: [email protected] Properties for Sale on the North Side?  We want to buy them. Email: [email protected] Have a vacancy? We can place your next tenant and give you back 30-40 hours of your time. Learn more: GCRealtyInc.com/tenant-placement Has Property Mgmt become an opportunity cost for you? Let us lower your risk and give you your time back to grow. Learn more: GCRealtyinc.com ============= Guest: Niko Apostal, Niko Collaborative - Essex 312 Link: The ONE Thing Podcast Link: The Power of Full Engagement (Book Recommendation) Link: SUCI Ep 112 - Chicago Cityscape Guest Questions:  01:58 Housing Provider Tip - Be sure to appeal property taxes particularly with upcoming reassessments! 03:36 Intro to our guest, Niko Apostal! 08:41 Weathering the storm of the real estate crash! 20:53 Lessons learned and tips for starting a real estate brokerage. 30:25 Investing in a 2-unit in Logan Square. 42:00 Essex 312 vs Essex Realty Group. 48:50 Gotchas when buying a 2-4 unit building! 52:10 Neighborhoods that Niko is bullish on! 60:20 5 Year Outlook on Chicago. 62:24 What is your competitive advantage? 63:11 One piece of advice for new investors. 63:27 What do you do for fun? 63:39 Good book, podcast, or self development activity that you would recommend?  64:04 Local Network Recommendation?  64:57 How can the listeners learn more about you and provide value to you? ----------------- Production House: Flint Stone Media Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2025.