Real estate is by far the best investment you can make, hands down. Yes, the stock market has many great investments to offer, but everyone knows somebody that has made a profit from real estate, but few people know somebody has done the same in the stock market. In another life, I would have been a stockbroker and I could have made millions going "Long & Short" on stocks...but I learned very early on, that real estate investing is a lot more fun, and more profitable!
There is one thing I know, and that is the fact that I know nothing...so the old adage goes. But, I pride myself on the fact that I spent years studying investment strategies, analyzing financial statements, understanding the stock market, learning about venture capitalists and private investors, and started my career in real estate focused on one thing, gaining wealth and financial independence through real estate investing.
When you look at the foundation and pure principles of real estate investing, it is actually pretty simple. Overall, the real estate market is much easier to make money in than the stock market. If you are investing in the stock market (unless you have a masters in finance or recently passed your series 7) let a professional broker handle your money. If you are new to the real estate industry, with proper training and discipline, you could become an avid investor within a few months. Simply put, investing in real estate is a no-brainer; every single person should at least purchase his or her own home & one investment property. Historical trends in real estate data, in reference to appreciation, have always shown an increase over the long term, and as long as our population continues to grow, There will ALWAYS be a demand for housing.
I flipped over 20 homes in my first year in Real Estate in Pensacola Florida. If I could give one piece of advice to anyone, it would include "Education" and by that I mean "Educate Yourself Every Single Day!" The world changes, hence the market changes...Don't ever become complacent as a Real Estate Investor or Realtor. In order for you to become an expert in this market, you have to continually educate yourself and get involved with every facet of real estate that is available. I cannot tell you how many times I have a veteran agent telling me something that is no longer true in our market place...and they refuse to take advice, when its free! If someone wants to share his or her experience and knowledge with you, TAKE IT! They may not be 100% correct, but at least keep an open mind to it, as you never know what doors that advice might lead you to.
Last but not least, I enjoy real estate mostly because of the relationships. Life is too short to work in an industry that you don't enjoy, and to be working with people that you do not like...I try to surround myself with professionals that are fun & easy to work with. There is no reason to put a chip on your shoulder in this business. The most successful people in any industry are those that know how to network, build and retain relationships. If you are going to be doing anything in life, you might as well enjoy it.
So, if you are interested in developing land, investing in residential or commercial properties, want advice on anything, have advice that you want to share, or anything else related to Real Estate or Investment Opportunities, feel free to contact me any time.
Good Luck & Good Profits :-)