The Hidden Cost of Ignoring Your Home Equity A Penny for Your Thoughts. How to Turn Pennies Into Prosperity

So, You Want to Be a Real Estate Investor?!

Real estate investing often seems intimidating to those on the outside looking in. The risks, the unknowns, and the capital required can make it feel out of reach. But the truth is, getting started isn’t as daunting as it might appear – especially if you approach it strategically and with the right people to help you!

Take a client of mine, Jason (not his real name). A few years ago, he was in the same position many aspiring investors find themselves in – intrigued by real estate but unsure of where to start. He had a good job, some savings, and a strong work ethic, but he didn’t know how to take that first step.

Rather than overanalyzing or letting fear hold him back, I encouraged Jason to start with one manageable investment – a small single-family property in a stable area close to his home. He financed it smartly, took the time to secure a solid tenant, and saw firsthand how rental income could cover expenses and generate profit. Fast forward a few years, and he now owns over 10 investment properties, including long-term rentals, short-term Airbnb properties, and fix-and-flip projects.

If you’re looking to break into real estate investing, here are some practical steps to help you take action:

Start Small and Smart – Your first deal doesn’t have to be a high-risk, high-reward investment. Consider a manageable property, like a single-family home or small duplex, in an area with strong rental demand. Focus on cash flow rather than chasing huge appreciation. Once you get comfortable, it will be easy to upgrade to multi-family properties.

Explore Financing Options – Many people assume they need a massive amount of cash to invest in real estate, but that’s not always the case. Research loan programs, partner with a knowledgeable lender, and explore creative loan options or partnerships to maximize your purchasing power. If you have the properties but lack the cash, partner with someone who has the funds.

Understand Your Market – Successful investors don’t buy blindly or haphazardly. Study local trends, rental demand, and property values. Get to know different neighborhoods and identify areas with growth potential. This research is one of the biggest advantages you can have. Barbara Corcoran says she used to hang out at local coffee shops to learn about a neighborhood’s demographic before she would invest in anything.

Choose Your Investment Strategy – Not all real estate investing is the same. Do you want a steady monthly income from long-term rentals, or do you want to chance it for higher returns with short-term rentals like Airbnb? Perhaps your talents work best with a more hands-on approach with fix-and-flips? Choose a strategy that fits your skills, financial goals, and risk tolerance.

Build a Strong Team – Real estate is a team sport. Work with experienced professionals -realtors, lenders, contractors, and property managers – who can guide you and help you avoid costly mistakes. Surrounding yourself with the right people will accelerate your success.

Take Action – The biggest difference between those who want to invest in real estate and those who actually do is action. Many people get stuck in research mode and never take the first step. At some point, you have to trust your knowledge, make the leap, and learn as you go.

Getting started isn’t about having all the answers upfront – it’s about having the willingness to learn, take calculated risks, and adapt along the way. The hardest part is making that first investment. But once you do, you’ll realize just how much opportunity is out there. Join our real estate investor community at https://info.approvedfunding.com/investor for more insights and advice.

Would you rather have one mega mansion property worth $3 million or have ten single family investments worth $250,000 each? Please let me know if you have a good “Would you rather” question, and we will highlight your submission.

Shmuel Shayowitz (NMLS#19871) is President and Chief Lending Officer at Approved Funding, a privately held local mortgage banker and direct lender. Approved Funding is a mortgage company offering competitive interest rates as well as specialty niche programs on all types of Residential and Commercial properties. Shmuel has over 20 years of industry experience, including licenses and certifications as a certified mortgage underwriter, residential review appraiser, licensed real estate agent, and direct FHA specialized underwriter. He can be reached via email at [email protected].