Rockville Centre, NY · Member since 2016 · 15 posts · 3 votes
Hi guys,
I've spent the last year educating myself - I took a Real Estate Principles course at Harvard Extension School, and I'm currently completing my Real Estate Salespersons course.
I would like to invest in commercial real estate - not sure yet what subset, but I'm thinking multifamily might be a good place to start.
Is it better to get a job in the field for a few years? Or is it possible to just attend meet ups and network to eventually immerse yourself in a deal.
I've found that there's only so much you can learn from books - real life practical experience goes a long way.
Real Estate Investor · Memphis, TN · Member since 2016 · 940 posts · 695 votes
9y
@Shon Butani - Are you currently looking for work and wanting to be in RE full-time? That should be your first question I think. I always recommend working for someone if that fits with your career goals. You can only learn so much in a course. Most of it is hands-on - regardless of industry.
I'm sure there are more commercially focused folks on BP who can advise better, but that would be my first question.
Real Estate Consultant · Camarillo, CA · Member since 2010 · 2k+ posts · 1k+ votes
9y
I suggest you go to different REI events as well as dig through these forums with a specific purpose. That purpose would be to find out who is doing what you want to do. Once you narrow that down to a few people, maybe someone local to you, have a conversation with them. See how well you get along and their willingness to answer question of a newbie. Then find out how you can help this person out. Ask them how you can help them in their business. By virtue of helping them out you will have a key in the door to ask questions and get involved in their business. As you learn the business from the inside, you will become more knowledgeable and confident.