I think I've found my tribe... Newbie from SC living in CO!

[Matthew Crawford]

Greetings and Good Morning to all the great individuals here on BP!

My name is Matthew Crawford and call it fate or simple luck, I stumbled upon the BP community a few months back. Ever since then, I have been actively mining the gems that are weaved throughout this amazing platform! Be it the podcast, the ultimate beginners guide or scanning the numerous threads, it seems this tribe has got it going on! And I love it!

Essentially I just graduated from Clemson University with a Graphic Communications/Marketing double major and instead of grabbing that comfy 30k-40k job over in Greenville/Charlotte/Atlanta like all my peers, I packed up my car, took a gamble and drove west. Freelancing paid for gas, but eventually I found a lead for a marketing gig in Denver! It's been around 3 months since I planted roots here in the mile high city and it seems there is some wind in the proverbial sails. 

As I began to pay an arm and a leg for rent here in Denver, the reality of finances and supporting one's self truly set in. Thus I started reading and learning how to diversify my revenue channels and create some passive income. This led me down the road to RE and more notable REI. With my passion for meeting people and creating marketing strategies, this coincidentally seems like a perfect fit!

My questions at this present moment are: 

Which REIA groups would you all recommend for here and around Denver?

What is the best way to learn about direct mail campaigns for wholesaling?

Any glaring mistakes or hiccups that were made in the first year or two, that you would now avoid with your current knowledge? (Basically the 'If I would've known what I know now' dilemma)

Mentors.. The elusive Jedi.. Any recos on how to find and partner with a willing teacher?

I have a million more questions and I am very eager to listen to those who have blazed their trails before me. Please feel free to share any advice or recommendations and I will do my best to eventually return the favor!

Thank you all very much and blessings and success your way!

Matthew Crawford

[Theresa W.]

Welcome @Matthew Crawford. 

The monthly Denver meetup is great for learning - I meet someone that helps me at every single meeting.  Plus, beer.  What's not to like?

As far as finding a Jedi, I've observed that if you're engaged in the community and focus in on a specific area of REI, you'll soon find the folks that are already doing what you seek.

This is not enough, though.  Padawans must demonstrate continued interest.  Jedis are tired of meeting folks that express interest and don't follow through.  Keep attending the meetings and do your own research to ask specific questions that show you've been vetting deals.  You'll get to know the Jedis and they will see your dedication.

Your Jedis and my Jedis may not be the same (I am buy and hold), but if you attend a meeting, I will buy you a beer and introduce you to some.