What's the biggest obstacle for finding real estate friends?

[Kyle Pascual]

Hello everyone - I'm relatively new to BP and posting. I'm starting my personal real estate journey, but want to find more people that are willing to just talk about real estate or bounce ideas off of. I feel there is a need in personal real estate for conversation without constantly being sold on something. And I can't really talk shop with my inner group of friends (other than the macroeconomics of CRE).

Are there outlets for these types of conversations? 

Thanks! 

[Jeff S.]

We go to many real estate clubs in Los Angeles, @Kyle Pascual, and I recommend several. You can find all of these on Meetup.com :

FIBI Pasadena

FIBI San Fernando Valley

FIBI Long Beach

FIBI South Bay

REIN

LME Investments

Those above are all No Sales events. That is, they will not try to sell you anything. They are also live events. Do a search on Meetup and you’ll find others. Just be aware of the for-profit clubs. Many of these invite speaker circuit gurus that are there to sell you their programs.  You should avoid these.

Don’t worry if the topic/presentation on a particular day doesn’t interest you. You go to these to meet others and to network, not to necessarily hear the speaker.

Remember:

• You are there to network. Never sit, unless the presentation is ongoing.
• Set a goal, such as meeting 10 attendees. Don’t be shy. Everyone really does want to meet you.
• Be prepared with an answer when you are asked what you do in real estate. Saying, “I’m just starting” is fine. We all started at some point.
• Bring business cards. Nothing elaborate. Name, address, email, and phone number is all you need.
• Follow up with an email, as appropriate.