Structuring the Deal: How Smart Developers Lower Risk While Scaling Up

Episode Summary

In this episode of Blueprint to Billions, HUD attorney and multifamily housing strategist Terry Bruner explains how legal entity structures, partnership terms, and risk protection strategies shape the success of HUD-backed transactions. From avoiding rookie mistakes to managing liability and protecting personal assets, Terry outlines how developers can structure deals that scale while reducing risk. He also discusses common red flags HUD reviewers look for, strategies to minimize personal guarantees, and the mindset shifts required to transition from single deals to building sustainable real estate portfolios.

Key Timestamps

00:01:15 – Red flags in new developer deal structures
00:04:20 – Common ways clients sabotage HUD deals
00:07:10 – Ownership structure and personal liability
00:09:45 – Structural mistakes HUD reviewers flag
00:13:00 – Personal guarantees and risk mitigation
00:16:40 – Scaling from single deals to real portfolios
00:18:50 – Building a niche legal practice

About the Show

Blueprint to Billions is a podcast for real estate professionals, investors, and changemakers who want to master the strategy behind HUD-backed multifamily housing deals. Hosted by attorney and  multifamily housing strategist Terry Bruner, the show pulls back the curtain on what really drives successful affordable housing development, from navigating red tape and relational capital to building generational wealth through TPA investments. Each episode blends legal insight, policy knowledge, and practical advice to help listeners scale projects with purpose, profit, and community impact in mind.