Category Archives: DC Real Estate Investing

The Slow and Rewarding Journey of Real Estate Success

Improving in any field is a gradual process, and real estate is no exception. Just like learning to play the piano, success in real estate requires patience, persistence, and continuous effort.

Initial Stage:

Quick Wins: Just as new pianists quickly learn basic songs, new real estate agents might experience early successes, such as their first property sale.

“The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing.” – Walt Disney

Intermediate Stage:

Building Skills: As pianists hit plateaus and need consistent practice to improve, real estate professionals must deepen their market knowledge and build a steady client base through continuous effort.

“Success usually comes to those who are too busy to be looking for it.” – Henry David Thoreau

Advanced Stage:

Refinement: Mastery in piano involves refining techniques and learning complex pieces. Similarly, seasoned real estate investors refine their negotiation skills, stay updated with market trends, and offer superior client service.

“Don’t let the noise of others’ opinions drown out your own inner voice.” – Steve Jobs

Conclusion:

Success in real estate, much like mastering the piano, is a journey. Each stage builds on the last, and significant improvements come from sustained effort over time. Patience, dedication, and a commitment to continuous learning are key to achieving long-term success in real estate.

(View this article on Youtube in the video above or click here.)

Why Our “Summer Sprint” is a Great Strategy

Our “Summer Sprint” strategy embodies the best of both worlds: the patience of gradual improvement and the momentum of consistent action. By aiming to get better by just 1% each day over the next 90 days, we embrace a philosophy of steady, incremental progress. This approach ensures that we build strong, sustainable skills and knowledge.

Scientific Backing: The concept of continuous, incremental improvement is supported by research. The theory of “marginal gains” popularized by Sir Dave Brailsford in cycling showed that making small improvements in various aspects led to remarkable overall performance enhancements. Similarly, research by Stanford psychologist Carol Dweck highlights the importance of a “growth mindset”—the belief that abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work—which aligns with our strategy of consistent daily effort.

At the same time, by committing to take action every day, we maintain a fast-paced, proactive mindset. This daily dedication helps us capitalize on opportunities, stay ahead of the competition, and continuously push ourselves to achieve more.

Combining slow, deliberate improvement with a fast, action-oriented routine sets us up for significant, lasting success in the real estate market. Join us in the “Summer Sprint” and watch how consistent, daily efforts can transform your real estate career.

Join me and the rest of our WREIA crowd Monday night where I want to share a few of the areas we are planning to put our energy.

With just a little time, effort and focus – let’s “Build a Better Business” this summer.

Grab a virtual seat for Monday while you still can.

See you at the next WREIA Meeting!

John

WREIA Team of ’24 – Starting Saturday March 23rd

In the competitive world of real estate, it’s not enough to have the knowledge and skills to close deals.


You need to surround yourself with the right professionals to succeed in today’s tough and ever-changing market.


In a fall of ’23 WREIA meeting we announced the next “live” phase of WREIA.
We called it “The Team of ’24”.


For a lot of people in our line of work, sitting behind a computer all day is – well – difficult.
We would love to be surrounded by real people who are passionate about this business, without all the “fluff” of traditional networking groups.


Networking groups are groups of like-minded individuals who come together to share ideas, strategies, and resources. In the real estate industry, these groups can include agents, brokers, mortgage professionals, appraisers, and other experts.


Remember – We mentioned that we will be kieeping our “Team of ’24” small and focused.

No matter where you are in your career you can benefit from the collective knowledge and experience of its members, expanding your reach and opportunities.


One of the most significant benefits of the TEAM is access to a vast pool of resources. Team of ’24 members will have access to exclusive tools, reports, and data that can help you stay ahead of the curve.


For instance, you can learn about new industry trends, discover emerging markets, or access information about the latest technologies and software.


Another critical advantage of Team of ’24 is the opportunity to build relationships with like-minded professionals. In real estate, relationships are everything. When you build a strong network of professionals, you can leverage their connections to expand your own.


You may also find mentorship opportunities, which can be invaluable in a field where the learning curve can be steep.

The Team of ’24 can also help you find new clients and increase your visibility. By joining the Team of , you can tap into a broader network of potential clients and referral sources. You may also have the opportunity to showcase your expertise by speaking at events or writing articles for another members newsletter or blog.


In today’s real estate market, where competition is fierce, the Team of ’24 could help you stay ahead of the curve. By keeping up with the latest trends, building relationships with like-minded professionals, and accessing valuable resources, you can set yourself apart from the competition and grow your business.


So, whether you are a seasoned professional or just starting in real estate, consider joining the Team of ’24. Surrounding yourself with the right professionals is essential to your success in today’s tough and ever-changing market.

Click Here to Sign Up.

2024 Real Estate Forecast for the DMV and Beyond

Remember – our first virtual WREIA meeting this Monday January 22nd, 2024, at 7:00 PM.

The meeting will be a session focusing on “The 2024 Real Estate Forecast for the DMV and Beyond.”

But first – how about a little insight from the “pro’s” over at Zillow.

Zillow has their 2024 housing predictions posted online.

Some of the articles big take-aways for me:

  • The average homebuyer in Oct. was spending 40% of their earnings on their mortgage payment.
  • The new starter home will be a single-family rental.
  • Home values will hold steady.

It’s hard to argue with the facts – but some of their predictions are going to be wrong.

After decades in this business I can tell you this – NO ONE knows what will happen in 2024 when it comes to real estate.

You need to be ready – and be prepared – especially if you are thinking about buying or selling your primary or secondary homes.

2024 is going to be an exciting year for real estate. There is no doubt in my mind – we are going to need to be ready for what is about to happen.

Most people are not going to see it coming – and will be caught off guard.

So – join us Monday night as we kick off the new year!

Let’s get ready for the spring months ahead – and don’t get caught off guard!

BEFORE I GO…..

We just finished planning the WREIA calendar for 2024.

We are going to be focused on essential skills and practical strategies you can use in your business every month.

You asked – and we plan to deliver in 2024.

You wanted more lessons on what it’s really like to be in the market TODAY. We plan to share the gritty details.

You want more skill building – so you can be ready when the opportunity strikes.

You asked for more industry insights – we plan to open our network and introduce you to more people, the true professionals, who make a living in real estate.

Lastly – if you need help on a deal, I’m still just a phone call or text away. Let me know how I can help.

John – 301-943-5535

Your Key Takeaway:

Get ready for an exciting and knowledge-packed January WREIA meeting!

Remote Work Case Study For Real Estate Investors

Here is a recent project that perfectly exemplifies the power of Stephen Covey’s timeless principle, “Begin with the End in Mind.”

This philosophy played a pivotal role in a recent real estate investment project I undertook in Maryland, and I believe it perfectly encapsulates the essence of profitable real estate investment.

As you know, “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” by Stephen Covey has been a cornerstone of effective personal and professional development. Covey’s second habit, “Begin with the End in Mind,” urges individuals to have a clear vision of their desired outcomes before they embark on any endeavor. I applied this principle wholeheartedly to my recent real estate investment, and the results were truly remarkable.

And – the property sale (it was sold in June) was the inspiration for the Oct. WREIA meeting Monday night.

The Maryland project involved a property in dire need of refurbishment and strategic updates. I meticulously planned every step of the investment, keeping the end goal in mind – to maximize the property’s value and appeal in the eyes of potential buyers.

As you can see in the photo collage:

Before and After: A stark contrast between the property’s initial condition and its final, fully renovated state. The transformative process underscores the incredible potential of a strategic real estate investment.

Strategic Upgrades: There were specific upgrades and improvements, such as modernized kitchens, renovated bathrooms, enhanced curb appeal, and reimagined living spaces, which significantly contributed to the property’s market value.

Market Appeal: The photos reveal how the property was strategically designed to cater to the preferences of potential buyers. It exudes warmth, functionality, and a lifestyle that many desire in this neighborhood.

In line with Covey’s principle, I was mindful of the end goal throughout the project, which was to sell the property at a premium and attract suitable buyers. As a result, the property not only met but exceeded those objectives. It sold quickly and at a price that reflected its true market worth.

And believe it or not – the work from home trend was a pivotal part of the sale. We will discuss more in detail Monday night. (I hope you join us!)

I firmly believe that embracing the “Begin with the End in Mind” philosophy is a fundamental pillar of successful real estate investment. It guides you to make informed decisions, prioritize key improvements, and ultimately achieve outstanding results. I can’t emphasize enough how crucial this principle has been in ensuring the success of my real estate projects.

The Key Takeaway:

The remote work trend is here to stay, and its impact on the real estate market is undeniable. As a real estate investor, staying ahead of this curve is crucial to maintaining a competitive edge and maximizing your returns. By strategically considering the needs and preferences of remote workers, you can make property improvements and investment decisions that align with this growing trend.

This month at the October WREIA meeting let’s go over a few things you need to keep in mind to stay in front of this trend and cater to the modern buyer or tenant in your properties.

Click Here to Register – let’s talk about the next steps we can all be taking when it comes to making money in real estate right here in the DC area and beyond.

Get ready for an exciting and knowledge-packed October WREIA meeting!

July 2023 WREIA Invitation – Details with Panel Guest – Video

A Midsummer Dream Team Panel – Live for our July WREIA meeting.

This Monday let’s get a fresh perspective on the local DC real estate market from a few WREIA members and active real estate investors.

Join in as we talk to a few experienced investors and even listen in as we talk to a “new” investor with less than a year of experience in the investment “game”.

Attending a WREIA panel meeting is exciting and offers a whole list of benefits.

Starting with belief. A core of the WREIA experience is believing you can do this business too.

Listen in as a seasoned pro walks you through how they overcome their daily struggles and create profitable properties all over the DC and beyond. Nothing makes you believe you can do it like learning how it was done by someone who is active every day.

Don’t be surprised if you walk away with a million dollar insight.

Interactive meetings like WREIA mean you can ask questions at any time. Take advantage of the panel this month and participate!

Load up on some industry knowledge from a diverse panel – and choose the tips that you want to take away – then implement the same or a similar idea in your own business.

In other words – steal their ideas and make them your own! We encourage it!

Then Monday night at WREIA – let’s talk about the next steps we can all be taking when it comes to making money in real estate right here in the DC area and beyond.

Get ready for an exciting and knowledge-packed July WREIA meeting!

Remember to grab a virtual reservation here and we will send you a reminder a few moments before we kick off the July 2023 meeting Monday at 7PM.

Go ahead – grab a ticket. (And yes, there is still no charge to attend.)

Where Is This Real Estate Market Going? (Video)

This interview is full of some very intersting statistics. And the source is a business owner who owns more than 100 Thousand homes across America.

While I don’t agree with everything in the interview, the guest does point out the dire need for more housing across the country – and how great the demand for housing actually is.

It means that as a real estate investor – you need to be ready to find money from someplace other than a local bank. Most of the loans are going to people with high paying jobs, steller credit, and high down payments.

Banks are protecting themselves.You should protect yourself too, and prepare yourself for the next 12 months. By being ready to finance a property outside of local banks when necessary.What happens when you have been looking for a “flip” property for 6 months and suddenly someone with 5 properties pops up and wants to sell rather quickly and get out of the business.

What do you do then?If you’re not sure, or absolutely positive what you would do, then you need to join us Monday night for our next WREIA meeting this Monday.Then Monday night at WREIA – let’s talk about the next steps we can all be taking when it comes to making money in real estate right here in the DC area and beyond.
The topic for WREIA this month is:
“What’s going on with financing?”
Come join us!

My sole focus for the June 2023 WREIA meeting is:Helping you understand financing optionswhen rates (and the economy) are wonky.

Spend a few moments with us at our next WREIA meeting Monday night– it could save you a fortune down the road.See you Monday!

Remember to grab a virtual reservation here and we will send you a reminder a few moments before we kick off the June 2023 meeting Monday at 7PM.

Go ahead – grab a ticket. (And yes, there is still no charge to attend.)

Team of ’23 Announcement

It’s official.

We are finally rolling out our Live WREIA meetings again – but we are keeping it small.

The WREIA professonionals who enjoy meeting each month (as we have for 20 years) are finally going to get a chance to see each other face-to-face again.

We announced the details at last nights April WREIA meeting.

You can catch the details at the the 41 minute mark in the YouTube replay from last night.

After getting the details if you are interested you can sign up for more details and to ask any questions until 11:30 tonight at this link. Just click the usual “Get Tickets” buttons and put yourself on the list for more details.

Remember – These Live meetings with the Team of ’23 are going to be IN ADDITION to our regular monthly online meetings. We will be doing both the free online meetings each month, and our new Team of ’23 live group.

The “Team of ’23” live meetings are for the members who want to be the first people with access to our in-office wholesale properties, live meetings with our network of resources, including professionals and trades people, as well as private phone or in-person meetings, and the benefits that come with surrounding yourself with DO’ERS in our local market.

Click the link – and grab a ticket for more information or to ask any questions.

These “more information” tickets will expire on May 18th at 11:30PM.

Thanks

John

Is Todays Interest Rate Too High For Homebuyers?

CNBC’s Diana Olick joins ‘The Exchange’ to report on the mortgage rate tipping point.

The interesting point in this segment: The current interest rate is over 6% – but buyers say anything over 5.5% is too high.

The spring selling season is off to a fast start here in the DC area.

Let’s see where we go from here – but the current market is very positive for home sellers.

Join us Monday night for our April WREIA meeting where we will be going over the required skills to succeed as we enter a new era of business.

Join us Monday at 7PM.

The topic for WREIA this month is:

“Must Have Skills To Succeed in Real Estate”

Come join us!

My sole focus for the April 2023 WREIA meeting is:

Helping you develop or find the skills needed to succeed.

Remember to grab a virtual reservation here and we will send you a reminder a few moments before we kick off the April 2023 meeting Monday at 7PM.

Go ahead – grab a ticket. (And yes, there is still no charge to attend.)

See you Monday!

WREIA Announces “Team Of ’23” – Update

In the clip below you will get a few early details about the new “Team of ’23” project we are working on here at Washington REIA Network.

We are casually referring to this new group within our office as the “Live WREIA” group.

First – It’s for people who want to get a little deeper on a local project and discover a few more details about the wholesale, renovation or rental market in our area.

Second – It’s for people who want to do more professional networking.

We are not looking for 23 wholesalers, or 23 agents, or 23 mortgage pro’s. We really want to make this a mix of every role within our business. A real “Team” that is built around helping each other and building each others business.

If you want to learn a little more – or even get on the list – send a quick text to 301-943-5535 or email me at ProfitableProperty@gmail.com .

Thanks again for joining us for the March WREIA meeting. Stay tuned as we ramp up for the opportunities ahead.

John

Feb 2023 WREIA Details – VIDEO

Monday February 20th – The second WREIA meeting of 2023.

Here are a few details we just posted on YT.

The topic for WREIA this month is:
“Finding the Perfect Property”

Come join us!

My sole focus for the February 2023 WREIA meeting is:
Find a Profitable Perfect Property

Spend a few moments with us at our next WREIA meeting Monday night- it could save you a fortune down the road.

See you Monday!

Remember to grab a virtual reservation here and we will send you a reminder a few moments before we kick off the February 2023 meeting Monday at 7PM.

Go ahead – grab a ticket. (And yes, there is still no charge to attend.)