Keeping everyone aligned—lenders, inspectors, attorneys—prevents bottlenecks that could derail the timeline.Lastly, tackling big tasks early (like ordering inspections or raising equity) is a game-changer.

It's part of the game. 

And then your REI income matches your W2 income the first time etcTo your question: equity is the name of the game.

I would do a game room over a movie theatre.

Beyond the lessons from the projects themselves, building a business that’s efficient, diversified, and focused on the luxury market has been a game-changer.

@Stuart UdisAll great comments, seems like putting skin in the game will be a reassuring factor for any potential investors.

What's the one investment strategy you wish you'd known when you first started in real estate, and how has it shaped your journey?

The borrowers think they're getting a loan when in reality they're funding investor games in the secondary market.

If you understand the math of it all it should come very clear, the game is NOT best played (1) buying in all cash, (2) buying and sitting on a property for decades on end. 

That said, you deserve a management team that treats your properties with the same level of care and attention as they would for larger clientsI’ve heard from other investors that finding a great PM company can be a game-changer.