New Member from Orange County, CA

[Michael Gerard]

Hi BiggerPockets!

Brand new sign up here... 

My background is in sports marketing, but I've always had an interest in real estate--even as a young kid. About 25 years ago, I received my salesperson license and sold a few properties in Southern California. After a couple of years, however, I took a ski resort marketing job and let my license expire. Really regret that... I think I was too young to appreciate the opportunity I had.

I was once told by a wise elder that you should never let old licenses expire; you never know when you'd like to use them again!

About three and a half years ago, I left the sports industry and became marketing director for a CRE services firm. I love what I do and it's reignited my interest in real estate. There is so much to learn; I'm thrilled and eager to absorb as much as I can! In fact, I renewed my CA license last year and am an active Realtor in Orange County, CA. I also started attending OCREIA meetings (been to about six of them so far) and can't wait for the next one. Speakers have been tremendous.

Like many, I'm here to network, build relationships, make new friends, and learn the business. Investing in real estate is something I want to do (and continue to learn about) for the rest of my life.  Thanks to all of you and thanks for this amazing website!

[Peter MacKercher]

Welcome to Bigger Pockets @Michael. I am in STL please let me know if you need anything. 

In the meantime here are 7 tips to help you grow your business using BP:

1. New to BP? http://www.biggerpockets.com/starthere

2. Develop your own business strategy. -- Don’t just be a “jack-of-all-trades"

3. Grow your business by developing your business plan. - Remember there is a difference between goals and a plan. http://www.biggerpockets.com/files

4. Locate and attend several different local REIAs as they’re great opportunities to network and meet wholesalers, lenders, and contractors.

5. Stay away from the “guru” sales-pitch events - they rarely increase your investment knowledge, they merely empty your wallet!

6. Spend some time every day on Bigger Pockets by connecting with “colleagues,” perusing blogs and videos, and engaging with others on the forums: http://www.biggerpockets.com/meet

7. Set yourself up to receive free alerts to be notified of subjects that interest you: http://www.biggerpockets.com/alerts