​Twenty-Something? Get in the Game.

Real estate investing is something I think everybody should be doing, no matter what your age. However, being 26, I am extremely passionate about other twenty-somethings getting into this business. Since beginning two years ago, I have been able to purchase over 40 units and enhance my life and lifestyle in ways that 23 year old, cubicle-sitting Steven would never have imagined (even with spending most of my time staring out the window daydreaming). I hear the majority of my friends putting their money mostly into their bank accounts or into things they don’t fully understand. To me, the key to wealth and freedom is generating cash flow and equity, both things real estate can provide to you.

If you are a twenty-something reading this, you are sitting in a perfect place. (Note: not all points may apply to you but I’m sure some will).

1. 1. You are free. I moved down to Florida when I was 24 to capitalize on a struggling Florida market. I didn’t have a wife or kids - all I had was a job that only took two weeks to get rid of.
2. 2. You have expendable income. I really had/have a cheap life. Most of my money was spent on rent and beer. The surplus was just going to my bank account and sitting there.
3. 3. You have a lot of energy. I can juggle a lot at one time. Last week I put in offers on three duplexes, went to a self-storage facility convention in Vegas, lost too much money in Vegas, and shot emails back and forth with my property manager. Technology allows you to do a lot - and we are good with it. I’ve worked with people who find checking their emails challenging. Some even use AOL email addresses.
4. 4. People want to help you. It’s crazy! People like helping young people out. Many more-seasoned-than-I investors have given me great advice. I’ve even landed seller financing from it. My first property was sold and financed to me by a lady I sat next to on a plane. She loved what I was trying to do with my life and helped me get started.
5. 5. Self-Education. Jim Rohn once said “formal education will make you a living; self-education will make you a fortune.” Personally, I am very into personal development. Learning and reading about real estate was the first time I ever went out of my way to better myself. That was how I started listening to Bigger Pockets. Also, dive into Tim Ferriss’ podcast and books when you have some time. You’ll be surprised by the things many of the most successful people have in common. You might even find yourself meditating for thirty minutes every morning.
6. 6. The Snowball Effect! If you start earlier, it only gives you more time to do deals and grow. Doing deals is fun. You will start building a passive income that will continue to grow - like a snowball running down a hill. However, that snowball is actually a ball of money.

If you’re twenty-something and reading this blog, you have already taken a step in the right direction. Actually, if you are reading this blog regardless of age, you have already taken a big first step. This forum gives you access to individuals who share a common interest. There are members that are just getting started and others who have been in real estate for years. There are a ridiculous number of ways you can get involved in real estate. Dive in and explore.