Quick note before I dive into today’s topic.
I’ve opened up a limited number of one-on-one consultation slots this month. After this week, I won’t be able to take on more for a while.

If you’re actively working through a deal, a decision, or a direction change in your business and want a second set of experienced eyes on it, this is the right time.

No pressure — just a heads-up while there’s still availability.
Click here for details.

With Rare Exception, This is the ONLY Way to Begin

For most people, real estate investing should start—and often stay—as a side hustle. That’s not a knock. It’s reality.

The goal for nearly everyone isn’t flipping houses. It’s income-producing property.

And here’s the first mindset shift:

You don’t have to own real estate to benefit from it. You just need to control it.

That control can come from:

• Seller financing (security deed or installment land agreement)

• Lease options

• Long-term leases structured for cash flow

• even a Joint Venture with the owner

Flipping houses is a different animal. It’s best suited for people with:

• Construction knowledge (or deep contractor relationships)

• Plenty of cash

• Time to manage every project

If you’re starting out, that’s usually not you—and that’s okay.

The better entry point is a lightly distressed property. Something that:

• Needs cleanup, not a full rehab

• Can be handled by a handyman, or you

• Can be rented quickly

You won’t know the best contractors at first—and the best ones probably won’t call you back anyway. Choose projects that don’t depend on them.

From day one, the deal must cash flow or at least break even.

Then build in discipline:

• Set aside six months of expenses in reserves

• Save 10% of every payment for future capital expenses (because they will happen)

Don’t be discouraged when there’s little left over each month. That’s normal.

If you’re thinking long-term—10 to 20 years—you’ll likely:

• Build substantial equity

• See properties double in value

• Have them nearly paid off

If even this feels like too much, there’s no shame in fully passive options:

REITs, private placements, syndications, or lending.

Real estate doesn’t have to be flashy to work.

It just has to be boring and consistent.