How should I prepare myself for a local real estate meetup?

Question

Rookie investor searching for first investment property.

It has been recommended to attend a local meetup, but what do I say? What ways can I prepare myself for these type of events.

Elle LoFrisco · Answer

Hey Ally!

Meetups are a great way to get started. I recommend arriving at least 10 minutes early (depending on the event/venue) and bring business cards if you have them. If you have an iPhone, there is a way to make your own "Contact Card" in the Contacts app: I normally add my cell, email, and company there; list your "Company" as "Investor". That way, when someone gives you their phone number, you can send them your contact card. If you don't have an iPhone, just send them a text at the event with your name and that you are a new investor.

That is a great categorization @Nicholas L.— referencing this will help you see which events are most beneficial for you. I also attended all and found meetups that fall under 1 & 2 to be best, but it all depends.

I would definitely introduce yourself as a new investor looking for your first property. You will likely be asked about your price range, home type, area, etc. Totally fine if you don't know the details yet, just be honest about where you're at. Hope everything goes well!

Nicholas L. · Answer

@Ally Alvarez

I had the same questions several years ago when I got started, and luckily - most real estate investors love to talk shop.  I'd be direct - "my name is Ally, I'm new, and I'm interested in hearing more about how you got started."  Then you're off to the races.

Also - you may already know this - but I think meetups come in 3ish general types:

1. Pitching prohibited.  This is pure networking.  Maybe there's a talk or a panel, but it's just sharing information.  No one is selling anything.  These are the best.

2. Light pitch. Someone gives a talk and then goes and stands in the back to sell their services, but there's no pressure and the talk is valuable without anything further.  I went to a bunch like this in Northern Virginia and they were fine because they were transparent about what they were doing.  The speaker tried to give value.

3. Heavy pitch.  The whole point of the "meetup" is to sell services.  Fine to go to and you can still of course network and not buy anything, just be aware.

I benefited tremendously from meetups when I was just getting started.  I went to ALL the meetups including ALL the pitchfests.  I didn't buy anything and I tried to have at least one good conversation at every one.

Hope this helps - happy to help further.

Alan Asriants · Answer

Just be yourself and ask questions you don't know the answers to!

Travis Main · Answer

Hey Ally,

Be yourself. When attending local meetups as a rookie investor, authenticity is your greatest asset. Embrace your status as a newcomer and don't shy away from expressing your level of experience. Remember, everyone starts somewhere, and acknowledging your beginner status can foster genuine connections with seasoned investors who are often more than willing to offer guidance and share their experiences.Local meetups serve as invaluable hubs of knowledge, bringing together like-minded individuals who are active in the same market you aim to enter or are already operating in. These gatherings provide a platform for exchanging experiential wisdom, offering insights that textbooks and online resources often can't replicate. By engaging with fellow investors, you gain access to a wealth of practical advice and real-world lessons that can help you navigate the complexities of real estate investing more effectively.Don't hesitate to ask questions, regardless of how basic they may seem. Every inquiry is an opportunity to deepen your understanding and expand your knowledge base. Moreover, asking questions demonstrates your commitment to learning and your proactive approach to growth within the investment community.A crucial tip for maximizing your learning experience is to come prepared with a notepad and pen. While it may be tempting to rely solely on memory, I would try to jot down as much information as you can. This practice empowers you to revisit and reinforce your learning.

If you ever want to connect, I'd be more than happy to help.

How should I prepare myself for a local real estate meetup?

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