All Forum Posts by: Edward Sharp

Hi everybody,

I am 25 and looking to start a career in the trades. I have been a real estate agent, trim carpenter, server, bicycle mechanic, caregiver, even lyft driver. I am choosing a trade career because I enjoy working with my hands. I’ve been working on my family’s rental properties since i was 8, doing demos, flooring, etc and just enjoy the flow state i get into doing things like that.

I am choosing between a plumber and electrician. My goals are in 5-10 years (maybe sooner) to have enough money to purchase a fixer upper that I can do a lot of the work myself. I wonder whether having in depth knowledge of plumbing or electric would benefit me more? I do feel like plumbing may fit my personality more, but I hear that electricians get possibly less wear on their bodies. I appreciate you guys! Cheers!

living on the porch sounds like a struggle! But getting paid $300/mo to do it at 20 isn't so bad. 

If you find a cash flowing property with numbers that make sense, then I’d buy it now even in this seller’s market. Over the long run (20 years +)  it will probably appreciate regardless of any short term (5 year) crashes or recessions. 

However, Jerry has a great point. Waiting for a market shift would allow you to attack deals in a buyers market, which is ideal. 


At the end of the day, a cash flowing property with good ROI can be found in any market, so just keep analyzing deals.

P.S. Colleagues and I are finding it near impossible to get offers accepted for buyers, even going over market value, huge escalation clauses, and waived inspection/appraisal. So waiting would not be a bad idea. Cheers.

George, I would recommend reading David Greene's new book "SOLD". Chapter 2 speaks of choosing a brokerage.

Some things brokers will say that may not be important for now are:

"strong brand in the community". Buyers/sellers are choosing YOU to work with, not the brokerage. 

"We are the cheapest option" This is like saying you are the Walmart of the industry. You get what you pay for.

"We can build your brand" They may assist, but won't do it for you. As a brand new agent, your focus should be on actually learning the business and training rather than brand building your brand at the very beginning. Learning the business and training will build confidence, and nothing else is stronger at building a brand than confidence. 

"We have technology nobody else does" Every brokerage says this. Many clients won't even use the technology provided unless it's really good. Most of your clients will just choose a listing they like and ask you to arrange a showing, then maybe write an offer.

However, things to look for and ask are:

Training: Hardest to find but most important. 

Support: Ask who, specifically, will help with writing offers, filling out forms, navigating MLS, and dealing with the various scenarios you will encounter as a new agent. Brokers will tell you they'll help with website and business cards, but won't offer assistance in getting your first client under contract or negotiating request for repairs. Prioritize practical support over fancy marketing bells and whistles.

Enjoy your new career 

Welcome to BP! 

I would start a conversation with every delivery you do!

@Jake Oppenheim Hey Jake! You'll be very successful as a REI. Definitely keep us updated on your how it goes. Cheers!

@Drew Sygit

Thanks so much! 

Thanks Kobe Xin! 

Hey all, 

    My name is Ed and I am an aspiring RE investor here in Metro Detroit. I've decided to become an Agent to fund my goals and to network. Passed my exam yesterday and am now looking for a brokerage. My goal is to own multiple rental properties. I found out about Bigger Pockets a couple years ago and love Brandon's books on rental property investing. Happy to finally be joining after years of lurking! 

Cheers!