I’m 18 and New. I need any advice I could get!

[Alex Gallardo]

Hi. I’m Alex Gallardo, I’m 18 years old and I am very Interested in real estate. I’ve been listing to podcasts and reading whatever I could. I am looking to get my first deal within a year from now. What should I do ? Besides educate myself with anything I can. Any advice would be great! I’m willing to meet for lunch/coffee as well!

[Chris Jensen]

@Alex Gallardo, some quick thoughts to get the conversation started. During this coming year: 1) join a local REI group to connect in-person with industry professionals (contractors, brokers, bankers, etc) or other investors, 2) get a P/T job in the industry, 3) pursue a degree in a related major (e.g. construction management, finance, business, marketing, etc) but approach school and each class with the attitude of "How will this help build my real estate business?", 4) save as much money as possible, 5) build your credit as much as possible, 6) maybe house-hack a duplex or flip a small home to get some experience, and 7) just for a little balance, read up on what experts are saying about a possible real estate downturn. Definitely not an exhaustive list, but it gets the juices flowing. The great thing, though, is that you're thinking about this now rather than 20 years from now. Congrats and best of luck as you prepare to pursue your goals!