How did you meet your current network of RE investors?

Question

Hi guys,I am very happy to have found this forum. My name is Kevin from Atlanta, GeorgiaI’m diving face first into the world of wholesaling and excited to overcome the challenges and find many great deals that benefit everyone in my market. I would like to ask experienced investors and wholesalers on the forum how did you meet your current network of investors who you receive wholesale deals from and what made you want to work with them? Are there any specific qualities you look for before allowing a wholesale investor to add you to his/her network?If you are a wholesale investor, how did you meet the buyers who you share deals with? (personal phone call, email, networking event)?Thank you in advance.

Craig Curelop · Answer

@Kevin Lott - you came to the right place! BiggerPockets has a wealth of information on all types of real estate and also has over 1,000,000 members you can network with. My biggest piece of advice with networking is BE CONSISTENT and SET GOALS for yourself. For example: 1. Meet 5 new investors every week. Do this every week for 6 months to a year. I was very adamant about doing this and I now feel that I am well embraced in the REI community in Denver. You will be surprised at the amount of overlap. You can search people in your area on BiggerPockets to meet up and grab coffee one on one. 2. Find your local REIA or real estate meetup near you and be attend each event. If they are monthly, attend each month. Eventually you will go from being the "new face" to a "regular." After you talk to people for 2nd, 3rd, and 4th time you will really start to build a network. This stuff takes time though. Can't just network over night!Good luck my friend!

Jay Hinrichs · Answer

by becoming an agent and working in the industry full.. time it led to a very very large and deep and VALUABLE rola Dex.a Rola Dex is a place were you hold contact info.. its old school :)

Kevin Lott · Answer

@Ted L. I strongly agree with you. Relationships are everything and your network is everything. It sounds like the best way to get your name out there is similar to any other industry. Hustle, be genuine, reciprocate relationships, be honest and find ways to be of service. Thanks Ted.

Ted L. · Answer

I heard someone say that your network is your net worth and I think that’s valuable advice. I have made valuable connections at the Local REI group, the chamber of commerce, Rotary, my hockey team, on bigger pockets, those I have hired to work on my projects, local material suppliers, realtors I have met by being involved in a deal with them, partners in other businesses, and many other ways. Here is what works: develop a genuine relationship with someone and find ways to help them or work with them. Here is what doesn’t work: Go to a “networking” event and meet a bunch of people briefly and never follow up or find a way to work with them.

Alexander Felice · Answer

This site.I've met uncountable people on this site, I've helped many make money, and many more have helped me make money. Local REIA is a good approach toonetworking is valuable, but it's a talent like any other. You must practice it, be consistent, be persistent, and do it with conviction.

Kevin Lott · Answer

Old school but effective approach... having a Rola Dex has served me well in other industries so I agree with you 100%. Thank you for the nugget @Jay Hinrichs

Kevin Lott · Answer

@Craig Curelop - You're awesome! Not just for being the first to comment on my discussion thread : -) but for an informative response. That's great advice that I will put into practice. We have two REIA groups that meet weekly that I have already scheduled on the calendar. BiggerPockets is an amazing community. I'm looking to not only learn from the community but eventually position myself to where I can contribute quality information to others as well. Thanks Craig and continue crushing it in Denver!

Charles M. · Answer

And to piggy back off what's already been said Don't be afraid to spend a little extra with your hometown people. Example... Bandit signs ordered online are easily $100+tax 100 signs. I paid a local $126 for a total 5!!! Why? Well, they've been around for 37years. 😎 You see it? That's right, they know EVERYONE in the City. Who's next to know? Right again, Me!! 😎

Kevin Lott · Answer

Thanks @Alexander Felice... One common theme I keep hearing is "consistency" and "persistence" and I'm glad it's being said. I told my wife when I decided to pursue REI that I didn't want to play small and that meant sacrificing other things so that I could focus on being fully committed to REI.Glad to hear that you're doing well out there in Sin City! Last time I was there it showed me a great time!