Is Finding A Mentor Worth It and If So, How?

Question

Finding a mentor is mentioned in every real estate book I have read so far. Whether it be from an individual or a group, receiving guidance from someone who has done what you are trying to do seems like a major step in getting started.

Im curious if people can attest to this and if so, how to go about finding this type of mentor/guidance.

I live in New York City but would love to hear about anyone's experiences.

Thanks

Ned Carey · Answer

@Patrick McMahon yes a mentor can be a good thing but that doesn't mean you need to pay for a mentor or that there is a specific Mentor/ Mentee relationship. Years ago I wrote a blog here about mentors you may want to check it out.

https://www.biggerpockets.com/member-blogs/3225/26426-how-do...

Ken M. · Answer

Not likely, because you are unlikely to follow the mentor's advice. I've tried to help over 60 people from Bigger Pockets (for free) and only one made the attempt to make offers. It's work, you have to be willing to put yourself on the line, it requires discipline, there are a lot of obstacles and most people think they get a trophy for showing up.

I could take an uneducated, street entertainer from Times Square and turn him into a producer, because he hustles (works hard, needs to be honest though), shows up, and loves being with people. It isn't rocket science, it's just sales.

Shawn Ackerman · Answer

@Patrick McMahon if you want to go fast go alone.  If you want to go far go with a team.  Pick a side.

Mohammed Rahman · Answer

Totally agree—pretty much every investor who’s made it big will tell you their mentor made a huge difference.

It’s one thing to read books or listen to podcasts, but having someone who can answer your specific questions, keep you accountable, and help you avoid rookie mistakes? That’s next level.

Since you’re in NYC, you’re actually in a great spot for this. Real estate meetups happen all over—check out BiggerPockets events, local REIAs (Real Estate Investor Associations), or even search Eventbrite or Meetup.com for investor networking events. Don’t just go once—keep showing up. Relationships build with consistency.

Also, don’t overlook online communities. Some people find their mentor just by commenting and DMing in Facebook groups, Discord channels, or even here on BiggerPockets. The key is to bring value—maybe you offer to help them run numbers, handle admin tasks, or even just bring the hustle. Most mentors don’t want money, they want to see you’re serious.

Bottom line: Mentors aren’t unicorns, but you have to put yourself out there and be willing to learn by doing. Real recognize real.

Patrick McMahon · Answer

@Ned Carey Cool, I'll give this a read later. Thanks for posting it.

Patrick McMahon · Answer

@Mohammed Rahman Thanks for the advice! This all makes a lot of sense. I'll be sure to check out those things you mentioned.

Is Finding A Mentor Worth It and If So, How?

Most Popular Reply