In real estate, it’s easy to get caught up in numbers, properties, and deals. But one of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned in my journey is that relationships are often the most critical part of success. Early on, I realized that real estate isn’t a solo business. The connections you make can open doors, create opportunities, and even help shape the direction of your career. Here’s how I built my network, the challenges I faced, and why I believe relationships are a cornerstone of real estate success.

Finding My Support System

When I first started in real estate, I was young, fresh out of college, and had just become a mom. I knew I needed a path to financial freedom, but I didn’t have any connections in the industry. At that time, I was balancing a new family and trying to make ends meet. My priority was finding reliable mentors and peers who could help me learn the ropes, offer guidance, and even share insights about overcoming the unique challenges I was facing as a new agent and investor.

Networking wasn’t easy at first. I attended local meet-ups, joined real estate associations, and even reached out to experienced professionals in my area. Over time, I found a circle of mentors who believed in me and were willing to share their knowledge. These relationships became the foundation of my journey, providing me with insights that couldn’t be found in books or online courses.

Building Relationships with Intentionality: Beyond Transactions

One of the biggest lessons I learned early on is that relationships in real estate are about more than just business transactions. It’s easy to approach networking with a “what’s in it for me” mindset, but I found that the most valuable connections came from a genuine interest in building mutual trust and respect. When you approach a deal as a relationship rather than just a transaction, the opportunities multiply.

For instance, I was once approached by a seller who was the father of a girl I’d gone to high school with. He had just lost his wife, and the property he wanted to sell was only partially finished. He could have sold it to any investor, but he called me because he trusted I would handle it with care and respect his wishes. I didn’t have the funds readily available due to other projects, but because of the trust we built, he offered me a seller financing deal, allowing me to purchase the property without putting my own cash down. It was a win-win, and it all stemmed from a relationship built on trust rather than mere profit.

The Benefits of a Strong Network: Off-Market Opportunities and Creative Financing

As I grew in the industry, the relationships I built began to pay off in unexpected ways. Networking with other investors, agents, and property managers led to off-market opportunities that I wouldn’t have found on my own. These properties often come with fewer competitors, less pressure, and the potential for creative financing options. For example, many of my off-market properties came through connections with other property management companies and real estate agents who knew I was serious, trustworthy, and ready to act.

One of the pivotal moments in my career was realizing that real estate isn’t just about the numbers—it’s about the people behind them. I partnered with contractors, agents, and investors who shared my vision, and these partnerships created opportunities for projects like multifamily properties and out-of-state investments. By fostering relationships instead of only chasing transactions, I’ve been able to tap into unique deals that helped me expand my portfolio without exhausting my resources.

Relationships Across Borders: International and Out-of-State Ventures

Expanding my network didn’t just open doors locally; it allowed me to explore international and out-of-state investments as well. Through connections with people in various markets, I was able to establish short-term rentals internationally, manage properties in different states, and diversify my investments in a way I hadn’t initially planned.

A lot of these opportunities came from contacts I made over time. Each connection, no matter where they were based, provided valuable insights and support that made investing in distant markets possible. Real estate is local, but your network doesn’t have to be. With the right relationships, the world can become your investment playground.

Using My Network to Help Others: Coaching and Mentorship

Over the years, I’ve come full circle, realizing that my journey has equipped me to help others navigate real estate investing. I launched a coaching program aimed at real estate agents who want to transition from traditional transactions to building their own portfolios. Many agents feel stuck on the transactional treadmill, unsure how to begin investing for themselves. Through my coaching, I help them leverage their skills, make meaningful connections, and create a roadmap to financial freedom, all with the support of a trusted network.

When I guide new investors, I always emphasize that having the right relationships can be the difference between a good investment and a great one. In real estate, mentorship and support aren’t luxuries; they’re essentials. Whether they’re navigating their first deal, figuring out how to structure financing, or learning the value of patience, my clients gain confidence knowing they have someone who’s been there.