Career Change

[Bill Graham]

Okay, I am hoping one or two of you may have found yourselves in my position at one time in the past and may be able to offer some direction/ advise.

A little background... In real life I am a Printed Circuit Designer (engineering). Early 50's, been at the same company 19yrs. I run this department with a comfortable w2 income.

I am also an investor, on the side. I currently own/ operate 23 units, over 7 buildings. I enjoy a modest passive income which I have been pouring back into the business. I had planned to be in Real Estate full time within the next 10 years. In that time I had planned to fix up what I have, along with a few new acquisitions, a few would be paid off by then. Good times...

However, the downsizing has begun. The ship is taking on water, if you know what I mean. I'm not afraid of loosing my job as much as seeing chains on the door knobs. I've seen these things happen in the past. Unless we really make some great sales in the next 1 or 2 quarters, our parent co. may just lock it up. Needless to say, I won't loose my house (like some) but I don't want to loose the momentum I had going with my business.

I have already signed up for RE Agent classes, but after reading some of the posts on BP regarding Agent burnout and low pay, I'm thinking there has to be a better way.
In the past I have taken courses in Prop. Management, Appraisal etc, etc...

Has anybody crossed this bridge before? Any suggestions?