Gaining Confidence As a Young Investor

[Jonathan Holland]

Hello all,

I read many stories on this site that talk of people beginning their portfolio's at a young age, sometimes as low as 21 or 22. As a 21 year old who would like to get started in real estate investing, what are some tips or guidance you would offer for starting out in the way of confidence in your own decisions, as well as gaining others confidence that although young, you're not out to waste someone's time?

I want to get started, but I have a hard time believing that money lenders/real estate agents/contractors would take me seriously, or treat me fairly. I try to stay well read on the subject, but haven't ventured out to meetups as the fear of wasting someone's time creeps up on me every time I contemplate going to an REI meetup.

How can I build up my own confidence and the confidence of others in me when starting out?

[Axel Ragnarsson]

I did my first this year (I'm 21 years old). Just focus on finding a really good deal. That's it. Besides your education, that IS ALL you should be concerned about. Once you find that deal, you can find financing. It will be hard, definitely. But go out and talk to a lot of local credit unions, private lenders, potential partners, whoever. There a number of places to go for money. But if the deal is good, you will get the money. It can be intimidating to start at a young age, but if you feel confident that you know what you are talking about that should be alleviated. I personally joined BP at 19 and listened to every podcast, read every blog post and book, and it helped immensely when I went to approach people in the biz.