Investing in Real Estate

[Maria Espino]

Hey guys! My name is Maria and I'm 26 years old, I'm pretty new at this whole investing in real estate stuff bearly learning the basics and educating myself on the topic. I come from reading eye-opening books that have completely opened my mind to new possibilities. I would love to hear any advice on how to start, and on new creative ways I'm able to keep learning before I start making any moves. Looking forward to financial freedom as soon as possible 😆

[Melissa Justice]

@Maria Espino,

Hey Maria - love your energy and mindset already!

You’re doing exactly what you should be doing right now - soaking up knowledge and expanding your perspective. Those eye-opening books are just the beginning, and the fact that you're here asking questions shows you’re ready to move forward with intention.

Here’s how to keep learning AND prepare to take action without rushing:

1. Keep Educating, But With Purpose

Keep reading! Add books like "Set for Life" by Scott Trench, "The Book on Rental Property Investing" by Brandon Turner, and "Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, Repeat" (BRRRR) if you're open to value-add investing.

* Listen to podcasts like BiggerPockets and Wealth Without Wall Street
* Watch YouTube videos, but focus on one strategy at a time so you don’t get overwhelmed.

2. Pick a Simple First Strategy

For new investors, I recommend starting with:
*Long-Term Rentals (LTRs) - stable, passive, and easier to manage than short-term or flips.
* Look into turnkey rental properties in the Midwest or Southeast where you can start with less capital and strong property management support.

Even if you don’t buy right away, you can start analyzing deals weekly - it’s free and builds real confidence.

3. Surround Yourself with the Right People

* Join local or virtual REI meetups, Facebook groups, or women-focused investor communities.
* Find a mentor or accountability buddy who’s a few steps ahead of you.

4. Creative Ways to Learn Without Spending Money

* Analyze deals on Zillow or Realtor.com and compare them to sample pro formas.
* Offer to help experienced investors with tasks like cold calling, showing properties, or social media in exchange for mentorship.
* Explore house hacking, wholesaling, or partnering if capital is limited.

You don’t need to know everything before you take your first step - you just need to know enough to move forward safely and confidently. The path to financial freedom is real, and you're walking it now.

You've got this, Maria - keep learning, stay consistent, and ask for help when you need it. The future is wide open for you! 

Best of luck,

Melissa