Female General Contractor?

Question

Happy Monday BP. This is my 1st post so please bear with me. I am a licensed realtor inspiring to become a full time investor (buy/hold and PM). What 2 things in the RE world do we hear the most complaints? The ability to find an excellent GC and PM firm! So I set out to solve these issues at least in my area. LOL My issue as I am trying not to get emotional about is working as a laborer, carpenter help etc until I take and pass my MHIC (home improvement license). My last interview was for an entry level position I assumed everything was going well until he closed with" You want to be the Hillary Clinton of real estate" another called me a female Donald Trump. Please I have nothing against these 2 individuals but am I being ridiculed because I am a feminine female???? I looked with in me 1st, so now I wear casual attire with my steel toe boots and tool bag. yes it is purple but its a TOOL BAG. I really don't want to believe that in 2014 we have female bias this strong. With my Contractor/Construction management education and real estate license I still need 6-9months of on the job training to qualify to take the MHIC. Frustrated!

Paul Timmins · Answer

@Kozette Feaster

Welcome. Remember what you wear is merely a uniform. There are plenty of nice people in this business and a few idiots.

Two Great reads, I bought both J. Scott The Book on Flipping Houses,The Book on Estimating ReHab Costshttp://www.biggerpockets.com/flippingbook

Locate and attend 3 different local REIA club meetings great place to meet people gather resources and info.

Consider going to IREM.org search for ARM certified property managers call 5 ask them what areas fo the city they like and dislike and why. What they see them selling for and expenses per category. Great way to gather intel and deals before they are on market.

Check out the local senior center for a retired GC perhaps he can work with you.

Good luck

Paul

Darren Sager · Answer

There's  a TV show we watch called Rehab Addict.   Nicole Curtis is a great example of someone doing it right regardless of sex.   Don't be discouraged in any way shape or form.  This is REI and everyone's money is green.   Stay focused.  Don't ever take your eyes off your goals.  They naysayers will be envious of you when you're living the life that you so desire.  Never give up and never listen to those who say you can't do it.

Ann Watkins · Answer

I love her show...hated her voice at first, but now I hate to miss a show. I actually learned not to throw away old materials by tuning in.

J Scott · Answer

Hey Kozette,

I'll have my MHIC license in the next month or so, and have some projects coming up.  If working on any of these is something that will help you get your hours, let me know and I'm happy to chat.  I'm not going to be able to offer any guidance on how to do carpentry (not my forte), but if you just need the hours, I can probably help.

Paul Macharia · Answer

If someone tries to put you down because of your gender, don't let this get to you.  Brush it off and keep going.  In my day job, I have met many female investors and GC's some of whom do a much better job that some guys I personally know.  So don't let this get to you, just ignore this and keep pressing on towards your goal.

Kozette Feaster · Answer

Thank you all sooooo much for the encouragement. Time to put the emotions down and thought I will get creative. I do call myself an investor right? Negotiate? Another site interview on Thursday. Maybe I will get there an hour early and start working. Sometimes people need a visual. Just a thought. Again thank you all. Have a productive and progressive week.

Bill Gulley · Answer

You go girl! Ignore the negative. Men are insecure creatures at times and they know you may have an advantage in many respects.

I know a lady GC, previously a Realtor. She is as good as others in her domain, she can runoff a 6'6" 265 pound guy off a job site in a heart beat or flash a smile and get what she wants done, that really an unfair advantage, LOL.. Good luck! :)

Jerry W. · Answer

Thirty years ago men were 99% of the lawyers, now my old law school is just barely off of a 50% ratio.  Women sit on the Supreme Court, etc.

The next time they ask are you going to be a female Donald Trump tell them no you are going to be the next @Kozette Feaster

Charmaine M. · Answer

@ kozette

I like your style and where you're headed.

Don't give up, your day will come when you look back @ all those negative experiences and know that I made you stronger.

Good luck!!!

Wayne Brooks · Answer

Don't sweat it, they're probably just afraid you're going to kick their butts.  Do just that!

Female General Contractor?

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