Ep. 044: Anchored in Strategy: Todd Bailey on Building a Purpose-Driven Real Estate Business
In a recent conversation, Dustin sat down with Todd Bailey, PhD — founder of Anchored Northern Investments — to talk about Todd’s path from a long career in semiconductors to building a growing presence in multifamily real estate. The discussion offered more than a career recap; it explored the mindset, discipline, and long-term thinking required to succeed in today’s real estate landscape.
From Engineering to Real Estate
Todd spent more than two decades in the semiconductor industry, where his work centered on process optimization and team building. Along the way, he began exploring alternative investments through traditional vehicles like 401(k)s and IRAs. His curiosity eventually led him to real estate, starting with a private REIT investment in 2017.
As his interest grew, Todd and his wife became more hands-on. They invested as limited partners in a flex space in Massachusetts and, in 2022, purchased a small triplex that they now self-manage. That experience brought valuable, real-world lessons — from maintenance and tenant turnover to the realities that come with owning and operating property firsthand.
Coaching, Education, and a Shift in Strategy
Recognizing the steep learning curve, Todd and his wife committed to further education and joined coaching programs such as Multifamily Mindset. Through underwriting exercises, asset management training, and exposure to capital-raising strategies, they began to see the broader potential of multifamily syndication and value-add investing.
Networking also played a critical role. Events like Peak Partnership helped them build relationships, refine their strategy, and transition from small-scale ownership to thinking more expansively about partnerships and portfolio growth.
Navigating Regulations and Market Realities
The conversation also touched on the regulatory challenges facing multifamily investors today. Todd highlighted how policies such as rent control and legislation like Good Cause Eviction can significantly impact property operations and long-term value, particularly in markets like New York and Los Angeles.
For Todd, these realities underscore the importance of understanding local regulations before entering a market — and being selective about where and how capital is deployed.
Looking Ahead: Markets, Partnerships, and Growth
Looking forward, Anchored Northern Investments is actively pursuing opportunities in emerging and growing markets, including southeast Idaho (near Jackson Hole), Houston, and San Antonio. Todd and his team are targeting properties in the 20–200 unit range and leveraging relationships with brokers and industry partners to source deals.
Equally important to Todd is the type of partnerships he builds. He emphasizes working with experienced operators and bringing more to the table than capital alone. Drawing on his W-2 background, Todd sees his value in execution, problem-solving, and adapting business plans when challenges arise.
The Meaning Behind “Anchored Northern”
The name Anchored Northern Investments reflects Todd’s investment philosophy. “Anchored” represents a commitment to preserving investor capital and maintaining discipline through market cycles. “Northern” symbolizes guidance and direction — helping investors chart a steady path toward long-term financial growth, much like following a North Star.
Learn More
To connect with Todd Bailey or learn more about Anchored Northern Investments, visit anchorednorthern.com, find him on LinkedIn (Todd Bailey, PhD), or follow the company on Facebook. Todd’s journey highlights the value of continuous learning, intentional growth, and building the right partnerships along the way.
