Building Passive Income Through Commercial Real Estate

✍️ By Debbie Balfour | WBN News | June 25, 2026| Click HERE for your FREE Subscription to WBN News and/or to be a Contributor.

Most people say they want passive income, but few understand what it really takes to create it. During a recent episode of Let’s Talk Real Estate Investing, I sat down with August Biniaz, Co-Founder and Chief Investment Officer of CPI Capital, to uncover how successful investors generate consistent returns through commercial real estate.

August shared how his journey evolved from house flipping and home building in Vancouver to overseeing more than $225 million in multifamily and build-to-rent assets across the United States. His message was clear: successful investing is built on discipline, not speculation.

Watch the Full Interview on YouTube

One of the biggest takeaways from our conversation was the importance of understanding multifamily investing. Unlike residential properties, multifamily assets generate income from multiple units, creating stronger cash flow and greater stability. August also explained the growing build-to-rent sector, where entire communities of single-family homes are built specifically for long-term renters.

For passive investors, August offered several valuable lessons:

✅ Perform thorough due diligence before investing.

✅ Evaluate the experience and track record of the operator.

✅ Never invest all your capital in a single deal.

✅ Diversify across asset classes and investment strategies.

✅ Look for transparent communication from investment sponsors.

Another powerful insight involved market cycles. While many investors are fearful today, August believes opportunities often emerge during periods of market correction. CPI Capital even paused acquisitions for over two years as interest rates rose, choosing patience over chasing deals.

For those looking to raise capital themselves, August emphasized three essentials:

Become an expert in your niche.
Educate your audience consistently.
Build credibility long before you need investors.

His team continued creating content, hosting webinars, and nurturing investor relationships even when they were not actively acquiring properties. That commitment helped them maintain trust and stay top-of-mind when opportunities returned.

The lesson is simple: whether you're an active operator or a passive investor, success comes from education, relationships, and disciplined decision-making. Passive income is possible—but only when built on a strong foundation.

Debbie Balfour | Real Estate Investing Success Coach + Podcast Host
📍 Website: www.DebbieBalfour.com
📧 Email: Debbie@DebbieBalfour.com
🔗 LinkedIn: Debbie Balfour
▶️ YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@DebbieBalfour

Join the FREE Facebook Group: Real Estate Investor Success Hub

Download your FREE 7 Proven Ways To Invest In Real Estate Without Using Your Own Cash guide.

TAGS: #Real Estate Investing #Passive Income #Multifamily Investing #Commercial Real Estate #Wealth Building #Investor Education #Let's Talk Real Estate Investing #WBN News Langley #WBN News Abbotsford #WBN News Canada #WBN News Okanagan #WBN News South Delta #Debbie Balfour