I have had it! Leaving a big bank & big career in Milwaukee, WI

[Michael Olson]

Hello Bigger Pockets Members!

I am extremely glad to have found this forum after listening to the audiobook on "Rental Property Investing" by Brandon Turner.  I truly believe that "things happen for a reason."  I have written a very detailed "essay and business plan" about where I am and where I am going.   Here is the short version for busy real estate investor's:

As a financial advisor for nearly 20 years, I am passionate about helping people build wealth.  I have just realized that I am tired of building wealth for my firm.  I have no exit strategy from my career - other than a 401(k).  When I stop working, my income stops.  I want to begin REALLY building wealth for MY family.  I realized that many of my most successful clients have a large component of real estate in their plans.

As an aviation enthusiast, I am completing my private pilot certificate.  I have always had a passion for flying.   It has been a long road that I began nearly 40 years ago.  My father was physician but enjoyed being a private pilot (recreational only).  We we would travel together and I loved every minute of it!    I will complete my certificate this summer.

My wife says she can’t believe how good I am at building, fixing, and repairing things. I do have a passion for these things. She says she loves that I am a businessman that likes to get muddy, greasy, and dirty.  Contrary to many "analytical types" I would rather fix something myself, than have someone else do it. However, I don't have time with my current career. I can only get things done in my spare time as directed on my Honey-Do lists. I would love to be able to do more!

The light bulb when on for me last week!  All three of these passions can be combined through real estate investing!  I realize that I want to invest in apartment buildings with 16+ units to begin and replace my income within 2.5 years (when my son graduates from high school).  I don't plan to retire then as I am just getting started.  I want to create a legacy for my family and spend time doing things I enjoy and spending the time with the people that matter to me most.  Eventually, I will be able to fly myself to different properties as I expand ... a practical use!

I am posting this primarily to memorialize my plan (the summary of the plan) and now I need to get on to the next part of my life ... thanks Bigger Pockets!