Dental Real Estate for Beginners: Ownership Without the Headache w/ John Bertagni

A lot of dentists and dental students hear that they "should" be thinking about dental real estate—but it feels like one more headache in an already overwhelming career path. The idea of juggling clinical work, building a practice, and now adding real estate to the mix? It’s easy to see why many shy away from it entirely. But what if dental real estate didn’t have to be complicated? What if it could actually be the key to long-term financial stability and career freedom?

In this episode, we break down how dental real estate can work for you without turning your life upside down. From smart moves like buying the building alongside your practice to understanding lease terms like the right of first refusal, we show how taking control of real estate can open doors to opportunities you didn’t think possible. You’ll learn how to avoid the common traps of bad deals and unreliable partners, while also hearing about simple ways to incorporate ownership into your broader career strategy.

We also talk about the practical side—building a strong team with architects, contractors, and vendor partnerships that set you up for success. Clinical partnerships and automation come into play too, making it clear that running a practice doesn’t have to be stressful if you have the right systems in place. By tackling real estate head-on, you can reduce long-term costs, build equity, and turn what feels like a headache into one of the smartest moves of your career.

Whether you’re looking to buy your first practice, renovate a space, or take charge of your financial future, this conversation will change the way you look at dental real estate. You’ll walk away understanding that ownership doesn’t have to be overwhelming—it can be empowering. Let’s make it simple.

Chapters:

(0:00) The Overwhelming Idea of Dental Real Estate

(4:30) Building Equity Through Smart Real Estate Moves

(10:15) Lease Terms That Protect Your Future

(16:40) Avoiding Common Pitfalls in Real Estate Deals

(22:10) Creating a Dream Team for Your Practice Buildout

(30:25) Clinical Partnerships and Real Estate Synergy

(36:50) Automation and Efficiency in Dental Practice Design