Episode Summary:
In this episode of Real Investor Radio, Craig Fuhr and Jack BeVier discuss the recent Fed rate cut and its implications for the housing market, alongside the impact of AI on the labor market and real estate investing. They introduce guest Brad Bone, co-founder of River X AI, who shares insights on his journey in real estate, the strategies his company employs, and how AI is revolutionizing lead management and engagement in the industry. The conversation explores the future of AI in real estate, marketing strategies, and the potential for increased efficiency and profitability.
Episode 98 Overview
Fed Rate Cuts and Market Impacts
Craig and Jack opened with timely news: the Fed’s 25-basis-point rate cut. While some expected deeper cuts, Jack explained that weak jobs data had already shifted market expectations. Accordingly, mortgage rates began adjusting before Powell’s announcement. Craig noted softening in the housing market, particularly as sellers resist trading low mortgages for higher ones. Both emphasized that DSCR loan rates follow Treasury movements more closely than Fed actions.
Yield Curve Predictions and AI’s Economic Role
Jack shared his “crystal ball” view on the yield curve. He predicted near-term normalization as the Fed lowers the short end, but long-term disruption from AI adoption. He argued that automation is beginning to squeeze entry-level and eventually white-collar jobs. Consequently, consumer confidence may decline even as corporate profits rise, widening the gap between Wall Street and Main Street. Craig suggested that, in the meantime, investors should watch the five-year Treasury for refinancing opportunities.
Brad Bone’s Journey Into Real Estate
Guest Brad Bone, co-founder of Prime Home Buyers and RiverXAI, joined the conversation. He started investing in California but pivoted to Jacksonville, Florida, in 2018 due to stricter landlord laws at home. After initially flipping houses, rising rates pushed him toward wholesaling and novations, strategies with faster cash cycles. Today, his team closes 75–80 deals annually, supported by a marketing stack focused on inbound PPC and TV advertising.
Launching RiverXAI
Brad also co-founded RiverXAI, an AI-powered platform for real estate investors. The system integrates with CRMs, re-engages cold leads, and sets appointments through text, email, calls, and voicemails. Investors gain preloaded templates and industry-trained AI sequences, reducing the burden on sales teams. As Brad explained, this allows lead managers to focus on live conversations while AI handles repetitive follow-ups.
Business Impact of AI Adoption
RiverXAI consistently generates about three additional deals per month—roughly 36 annually. Brad emphasized that even though occasional glitches occur, the platform’s wins outweigh the hiccups. For example, one AI-handled lead produced his largest deal ever, worth six figures. In short, automation improved efficiency, deal flow, and return on investment.
The Future of AI in Real Estate
Looking ahead, Craig and Jack discussed broader AI applications. Jack noted the importance of keeping AI tools specialized rather than overly broad. Craig imagined personalized AI-driven video loan quotes, while Brad described virtual avatars already serving as company “faces.” All agreed that AI will transform sales, marketing, and management, albeit with challenges in maintaining authenticity and trust.
Core Takeaways
Above all, the episode highlighted a changing landscape for investors. Rate cuts and Treasury shifts create refinancing windows, while AI tools like RiverXAI improve efficiency and lead conversion. For investors, the lesson is clear: monitor economic signals closely, embrace new technologies, and adapt strategies to stay competitive in an evolving market.
