JF 4005: Turning Conflict Into Capital, Buying Distressed Debt and Due Diligence Must Haves ft. Chris Zona

On this episode of Next Leve CRE, Matt Faircloth interviews Chris Zona. Chris explains how litigation can be used offensively to acquire properties—leveraging non-performing loans (NPLs), credit bids at auction, and receivership—to turn “conflict into capital.” They break down practical playbooks for both quick exits and long-term holds, including borrower workouts and covenant rewrites, plus where smaller and mid-market investors can realistically start. Chris also outlines risks, jurisdictional timelines, and why disciplined diligence and capital planning are essential before diving into distressed debt. Chris Zona Current Role: Partner & Trial Attorney, Mandelbaum Barrett PC (complex commercial litigation; real estate-focused strategies using litigation) Based In: New York City, NY Say Hi To Them At: LinkedIn | mblawfirm.com Visit investwithsunrise.com to learn more about investment opportunities. Get 50% Off Monarch Money, the all-in-one financial tool at www.monarchmoney.com with code BESTEVER Join the Best Ever Community The Best Ever Community is live and growing - and we want serious commercial real estate investors like you inside. It’s free to join, but you must apply and meet the criteria. Connect with top operators, LPs, GPs, and more, get real insights, and be part of a curated network built to help you grow. Apply now at ⁠www.bestevercommunity.com⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices