My first 8 months in Real Estate Investing

[Chris Policicchio]

I just wanted to share my own success that covers my first 8 months in Real Estate Investing.  While it is not one specific story and I don't have any deals where I have made thousands of dollars or really high profit margins, I have definitely had a lot of success.  I think it's important for new investors to read and learn that you can achieve a lot in 8 months, even while working a full-time job and while being an active parent and husband.

First, quick background, until May of 2016, I had zero real estate experience or knowledge.  I wanted to find new income streams and real estate (specifically buy and holds) was always something I thought I'd be interested in.  

It's now January 2017 and I consider the following my accomplishments to date:

• I completed one private lending deal (where I lent money to another investor).
• I completed one small direct mail campaign and I'm in the middle of a much larger one.  The first campaign netted one deal (which I gave away) and possibly a second (still working with the property owner).  The second campaign is showing a lot of promise (two deals under contract) and I'm only about half way through the mailing.
• I purchased my first property off the MLS in December (duplex).
• I'm in the process of completing my first wholesale deal (lead came from direct mail).
• I'm in the process of completing my first seller finance deal (lead came from direct mail). 

And while none of the deals I have already completed is going to lead to me buying a Telsa in a couple of months, the education of going through the process of each deal has been invaluable.  

My accomplishments were made possible because of local investing associations (REIA and ACRE), networking, books, and most of all BiggerPockets (podcasts and forums). I'd say my BP is at least 80% responsible for my REI education. However, podcasts and webinars without action is not going to lead to finding or closing any deals.

Anyways, just wanted to share.  Hopefully a new investor will read this and be a little inspired or motivated.  Not every deal is going to be a $30k profit.  But you can go from ZERO to 8 months and learn and accomplish a tremendous amount due to BP and the community at BP.  

Thanks everyone!  Happy 2017!