In this episode of Multiple Perspectives, guest co-host Daniel Brereton welcomes Vikram Raya, founder of Viking Capital, to discuss how high-net-worth professionals can leverage the emerging build-to-rent (BTR) strategy in real estate investing. Vikram shares how physicians can create passive income without leaving their medical careers, explains how to evaluate real estate sponsors, and outlines the market factors driving BTR growth. Tune in to learn how to diversify investments, time the market effectively, and build long-term financial freedom.

Vikram Raya, a former cardiologist, is the founder of Viking Capital, specializing in multifamily and build-to-rent real estate investments. He also created LimitlessMD to coach physicians on transitioning to entrepreneurship and real estate. With over a decade of experience, Raya has scaled from single-family homes to $60 million development projects. Combining medical and investment expertise, he helps high-earning professionals diversify their income and achieve financial freedom while maintaining work-life balance through strategic coaching and real estate ventures.

Vikram Raya introduces the Build-to-Rent (BTR) strategy as a response to changing renter preferences for larger spaces and amenities, without the maintenance responsibilities typically associated with traditional rental properties. High-earning professionals are increasingly drawn to BTR communities that offer single-family home experiences with professional property management. The strategy addresses the current housing affordability challenges while providing operational efficiencies through standardized maintenance and community management. For investors, BTR communities represent a scalable opportunity to participate in the growing demand for premium rental housing while maintaining operational efficiency.

Vikram outlines three essential criteria for evaluating potential real estate investment partners: honesty, methodology, and longevity. Successful sponsors demonstrate transparency about past performance and challenges while maintaining strong investor communication throughout market cycles. Their methodology should include clear strategies for managing adversity and protecting investor interests over the long term. Professional investors should seek partners with proven track records across multiple market cycles and a demonstrated commitment to delivering investor success. High-net-worth professionals must conduct thorough due diligence on sponsors' past performance and operational capabilities. The combination of these factors helps ensure alignment with investment goals and risk management strategies.

Vikram emphasizes the transition from self-reliance to leveraging teams for achieving greater success in real estate investing. High-earning professionals should start by hiring virtual assistants and specialized team members to handle specific operational aspects of their investments. The approach allows investors to focus on strategic decisions while delegating tactical execution to qualified professionals. Partnerships, while potentially challenging, can accelerate growth and provide complementary expertise when properly structured. For physicians and other professionals, building the right team creates leverage and enables scaling beyond individual capabilities.