#107 - How To Earn Passive Income by 'Being the Bank' with Rick and Crystal Rumer

Path To Passive: Real Estate Investing For Technology Professionals

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Ever wish you could invest in real estate without dealing with tenants, repairs, or late-night calls? In this episode, Rick and Crystal Rumer share how they went from overwhelmed landlords to building a business that brings in steady, passive income, all by “being the bank.” They break down how they buy land and homes, set up notes, and help other investors earn 10–12% returns without the usual real estate stress. If you're a busy tech pro, doctor, or just short on time, this episode shows a smarter way to grow your money.
Rick and Crystal Rumer are full-time real estate investors and founders of Texas Secured Notes. After starting out with rental properties and fix-and-flips during the 2008 housing crisis, they discovered the power of note investing — and never looked back. Today, they specialize in buying land and homes, creating owner-financed notes, and helping investors earn passive income through first-lien note purchases. With over 450 notes completed and a default rate under 5%, Rick and Crystal are passionate about helping others build steady monthly income while keeping things simple and secure. They’re also a husband-and-wife team, proud parents, and committed to making real estate work for both investors and everyday families.
Connect with Rick and Crystal:
Website: https://www.texassecurednotes.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/therealrick/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/crystal-rumer/
Email: [email protected]
[email protected]
Phone: [phone]
[phone]
Episode highlights:
(0:00) Intro
(1:24) Who are Rick and Crystal Rumer?
(2:03) Leaving corporate America during the 2008 crash
(4:07) Crystal and Rick’s background in finance and sales
(9:19) What “being the bank” really means
(14:15) How they buy, subdivide, and sell land on terms
(20:02) The power of creating and selling notes
(25:52) Why land buyers make reliable borrowers
(30:39) Getting started: minimums, returns, and process
(40:50) Who is this for?
(46:29) Where to find Rick and Crystal
(47:16) Outro
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• Investor 101 https://www.aritacapital.com/investor-101-resource/#
• Due Diligence Resource https://www.aritacapital.com/dd-checklist-resource/

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