What to do while in college?

Question

Hey guys, I'm new on the forums here and just starting out in the real estate realm. My knowledge of how it works is pretty decent, and I'm currently reading a BiggerPockets book on rental real estate investing.

I'm also currently a full-time college student so my budget is basically non-existent. I could only afford small costs like a few hundred dollars at most at the moment.

I was wondering if anyone had any advice for me as to what a college student should do while still in college to get set up to start investing when they get out of college? I'll be done in 3 years and want to start investing right away, I'd like to start "house hacking" and purchasing a du/tri/quadplex and renting out the other units.

Any ideas/suggestions/advice would be greatly appreciated!!!

Brandon Rush · Answer

Of course it is. First off, anything is possible. Second, most people work another full time career while building their real estate empire on the side. I currently work full time in Technology while working in real estate.

I would advise you to start reading some books to get you in gear. I would go with Rich Dad Poor Dad, Set for Life and then The Millionaire Real Estate Investor. Its not all about "Real Estate", its more about the mindset you develop that will lead you to your eventual success. This mindset will need to be well rounded and focus on all aspects of your life such as personal finances and health.

Christian Herbster · Answer

Hey Brandon, thanks for the reply and advice I appreciate that!

I'm going to be a Physician Assistant, do you think it's possible to work a full-time medical career and still become successful in real estate investing without overworking myself?

Brandon Rush · Answer

Hey Christian,

Here are a few options you could look into while still in school:1) Start working on interning within the real estate industry. Maybe identify which area of real estate is most appealing to you and look in to it. Maybe you like selling real estate, call a few local realtor offices and ask if they have any part time positions open or in need of a volunteer/intern to assist with the daily operations. You could do the same for other areas such as construction, property management and etc. All it takes is a phone call. Don't be so worried about the money, focus on the experience, education, and relationships.

2) You could take on a full time or decent paying job and build up two years of taxes. This will allow for you to jump in to house hack, potentially while still in college. Many people do it.

3) You could get your license in a specific area of real estate such as a realtor license while still in school. This will allow for you to gain experience and some coin on side

4) Start a small property management company for local investors. Maybe simple tasks such as yard maintenance, painting, and etc. Make it known that you are an aspiring investor.

These are just a few different ways and I can go on forever. Get creative and think deep about how to get involved. Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone because others are not doing this.  Good luck and let me know if you need any help.