Different kind of success story. Overcoming fear

Different kind of success story. Overcoming fear

Real Estate Investor · the villages, FL · Member since 2008 · 5k+ posts · 3k+ votes

I've been asked by many about what the difference is that causes success in some, and failure in others. Normally. I think it is something very small.I hope this might remove the veil of uncertainty or fear some BP members have.
There have been many posts on BP about what causes failure. On this thread, it is strictly for success stories. I think the following could actually turn into a success story for many on here.
In over 30 years of investing, I've seen a lot of RE people. Most have been unsuccessful, and not very many have been the opposite. What causes some investors to be able to succeed ? Or, what causes many to not succeed?? That is the better question, imo.
Certainly, it is not just one simple answer. Environment, location, opportunity, knowledge, experience and intelligence are part of it. I'd argue that almost ALL of us have those. So, imo, there must be something else.
As others have pointed out, fear may cause us to be afraid to pull the trigger or to get started.I think many are seminar junkies, because it saves them having to take the leap or change and do something IN RE, rather than just reading and seminaring about it! It avoids reality for them
I've found that most of us are afraid of what we don't understand. That seems to be the #1 reason for fear. We overcome that with many of the items listed in this post, but no need to overdo removing it.
I've told many seminar junkies to just go buy SOMETHING. I almost don't care what it is. In the field learning is unmatchable. It will provide you with much more of a return on investment than anything else.
As a baby, we're afraid of that first step. We take a small step, then walk, and then run. Investing is the same thing. I've identified 4 Obstacles to creating wealth and have mentioned them before.
1.procrastination
2.spending habits
3.inflation
4.taxes

All of these are removeable. The first is mostly due to fear. Get a general understanding of real estate and then select an area to perform in.Specialize in that one area, and make it yours. Immerse yourself in it. Shadow those that are successful in your area of specialty and copy them.
This RE stuff is not brain surgery. Sometimes, we make it harder than it is. There are unbelievable sources on here to help, in every area you might choose. Get over the fear. Learn your area of interest well, and then go do it. Come here for encouragement and move along in your process.
There is no substitute for just doing it. Get busy and take those steps neccessary. Good luck. Rich.

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Lender · Phoenix, AZ · Member since 2008 · 351 posts · 40 votes
17y


I like this post a lot Rich. Hopefully some newbies will get pushed off the edge. I am still a newbie but can already tell I am getting nudged off and finally feel more comfortable.

I think you stating shadow those who are successful and copy them is one of the most import things a newbie can do. I am lucky enough to have an investor allow me to bug him (Thanks to Josh for letting me meet Nick through BP) and ask tons of questions and actually be on the phone when he talks to homeowners we try to help.

Actually being in the mix and knowing exactly how someone who is very successful does it is SO important. Just today was an example of this for me. Earlier today we were on the phone with a homeowner who needed help and got what we could/needed. Later I had a another lead and built up the courage to call myself. (Well not really because I had to text and call Nick to see what to say) But none the less I just went for it and did everything Nick did in the call earlier, and go figure everything went real well and the people were very happy to have me trying to help them, and more importantly (for my confidence at least) had no clue I've NEVER done what I just did with them before.

I know everyone says it but you need to just not be scared people are people and especially when you are dealing with peoples homes they will be begging you for help in some cases. I cant stress how important it is to any new investor to find someone you can learn from and help along the way. If you can do that Rich's first obstacle of procrastination will become less of an obstacle. I cant comment on the other 3 but hopefully I will be able to in the near future!
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  • Lender · Phoenix, AZ · Member since 2008 · 351 posts · 40 votes
    17y


    I like this post a lot Rich. Hopefully some newbies will get pushed off the edge. I am still a newbie but can already tell I am getting nudged off and finally feel more comfortable.

    I think you stating shadow those who are successful and copy them is one of the most import things a newbie can do. I am lucky enough to have an investor allow me to bug him (Thanks to Josh for letting me meet Nick through BP) and ask tons of questions and actually be on the phone when he talks to homeowners we try to help.

    Actually being in the mix and knowing exactly how someone who is very successful does it is SO important. Just today was an example of this for me. Earlier today we were on the phone with a homeowner who needed help and got what we could/needed. Later I had a another lead and built up the courage to call myself. (Well not really because I had to text and call Nick to see what to say) But none the less I just went for it and did everything Nick did in the call earlier, and go figure everything went real well and the people were very happy to have me trying to help them, and more importantly (for my confidence at least) had no clue I've NEVER done what I just did with them before.

    I know everyone says it but you need to just not be scared people are people and especially when you are dealing with peoples homes they will be begging you for help in some cases. I cant stress how important it is to any new investor to find someone you can learn from and help along the way. If you can do that Rich's first obstacle of procrastination will become less of an obstacle. I cant comment on the other 3 but hopefully I will be able to in the near future!
  • Residential Real Estate Broker · Payson, AZ · Member since 2009 · 3k+ posts · 1k+ votes
    17y

    Matt, I don't want to hijack Rich's great post but good job today!!!

    we'll close up that second seller on Monday.

  • Investor · Mableton, GA · Member since 2009 · 1k+ posts · 465 votes
    17y

    A great post, Rich (I gave you my vote...) I definitely agree that fear is the biggest factor of inaction. I think that many newbies would love to have a "hand holding" mentor. Unfortunately, no one does it for free,and those who would, are afraid of liability suits, (You give an advice to someone, and before you know it there is a letter from a lawyer...)
    I think this site is a great instrument as a collective Brian storming. Any newbie who has a deal, and suddenly encounter a problem, can bring it here and most of the time would get a practical free advice... However, they must take the first step and get the deal.

  • Real Estate Investor · the villages, FL · Member since 2008 · 5k+ posts · 3k+ votes
    17y

    Eddie- I voted for your post, and that doesn't happen often with me and you!! I have to disagree with your last part.I'd prefer the newbie to come here for advice BEFORE he has the deal, and hence the problems. There have been so many that have already been in hot water before asking suggestions.
    There are lots of hand holding helpers on here, that don't charge, and have nothing to sell.

    Matt- a good example for Eddie of someone receiving mentoring here on BP and successful allegiances being formed.

    Thanks for all the votes. The interest shows me I need to keep on keeping on. Rich.

  • Real Estate Investor · the villages, FL · Member since 2008 · 5k+ posts · 3k+ votes
    17y

    Bump-on spending habits-oh crap. I'll just atart a new thread.

  • Investor · Mableton, GA · Member since 2009 · 1k+ posts · 465 votes
    17y
    Originally posted by Rich Weese:
    Eddie- I voted for your post, and that doesn't happen often with me and you!! I have to disagree with your last part.I'd prefer the newbie to come here for advice BEFORE he has the deal, . Rich.

    Rich, I agree but that goes without saying... :mrgreen:
  • Real Estate Investor · the villages, FL · Member since 2008 · 5k+ posts · 3k+ votes
    17y

    Your post, Eddie, only took into account the "after the deal has problems". That is why I added the clarification. Rich

  • Real Estate Investor · the villages, FL · Member since 2008 · 5k+ posts · 3k+ votes
    17y

    Matt and Nick- Don't forget Will and I on your deals. AZ must have other deals you're missing out on... Rich

  • Lender · Phoenix, AZ · Member since 2008 · 351 posts · 40 votes
    17y

    Dont worry Rich they will be coming! I dont like to talk too soon but hopefully we will have a couple coming to you guys shortly. Maybe ill up the marketing so we can get some more for you guys. :D

  • Real Estate Investor · the villages, FL · Member since 2008 · 5k+ posts · 3k+ votes
    17y

    Matt- you don't get extra points for TRIPLE posts!!tic. Rich
    p.s. Looking for the deals soon.

  • Real Estate Investor · the villages, FL · Member since 2008 · 5k+ posts · 3k+ votes
    17y

    I just had to add another story of some thinking outside the box. Not exactly real estate, but kinda. I have a local fella currently painting my self storage facility here in Ft Myers, fl. A couple weeks ago, he asked if he could quit in the middle of my job for a week. He'd reduce by contract x amount for the inconvenience. I told him I needed x plus y! He agreed and went to TN to paint a hospital.

    He had never gone out of state. Took his whole crew, was gone 9 days and said he made more than he could make in a month here in FL. I was happy for him.

    How does this relate to RE? DUH!!! Maybe some of the posters here need to think outside the box and try other places, where the return is better. It worked for him. Rich, almost finished with my red,white, and blue storage facility.

  • Lender · Phoenix, AZ · Member since 2008 · 351 posts · 40 votes
    17y

    Question for Rich, or whoever wants to chime in as well.

    Step 2 spending habits. What would be your advice for a young investor like me on spending habits. I do save almost all the money I make, some of my friends think its crazy how I rarely spend money. But I will obviously have more money coming in that will increase the urge to spend especially because Ive never made more then 11 dollars an hour.

    So do you have a figure or percentage you would put in savings (or whatever) and and a figure or percent you put back into the business. I know you want to save as much as you and its a personalized thing but I am just curious if you have a model you feel young investors should implement.

  • Real Estate Investor · the villages, FL · Member since 2008 · 5k+ posts · 3k+ votes
    17y

    Matt- it has been SO long since I was a young investor!! Others will chime in.
    I was 21 when I married an 18 year old girl. We stumbled around for awhile with college, etc and then I found real estate by accident.
    We initiated a plan where we would live exclusively on her income for a couple years and invest EVERYTHING I made in real estate back into real estate. It was 100% of my earnings and , obviously it worked well. Now, only 50% get married and most couldn't SPELL discipline, much leass have any.. I don't know if this helped, but I don't think we ever did a %. Rich

  • Real Estate Investor · the villages, FL · Member since 2008 · 5k+ posts · 3k+ votes
    17y

    Matt- one other thought on your question. I have seen a lot of investors pick a % right off the top. Every month, they'll take a % (like 10-20) and put it into a separate acct. That leaves them the 80-90 for expense of living.
    This works best,imo, on fixed monthly income. If you're on commission, it might be more difficult, due to the unknown each month. Rich

  • Lender · Phoenix, AZ · Member since 2008 · 351 posts · 40 votes
    17y

    Yeah Ive thought about that. I usually save as much money as I can. Right now I will save every dollar I make because I am living with my dad (real cool I know, but at least its free!). I just know when I move out there are going to be bills to pay for the first time in my life.

    I was thinking something like saving 50% and then maybe a little bit for spending and at least 40% for living and putting back in the business. Who knows I guess thats really just where it depends on your situation...

  • Real Estate Investor · the villages, FL · Member since 2008 · 5k+ posts · 3k+ votes
    17y

    Matt- again, you seem to have your head on straight, a strategy to get where you want and time to do it!! You'll be very successful. Rich

  • Real Estate Investor · Escondido, CA · Member since 2008 · 68 posts · 5 votes
    17y

    As much as I hate to admit it, it is fear that is holding me back. I am on the verge of placing my first ad stating that I am looking to buy.

    I'm wording it a little differently. I don't have the typical "I BUY HOUSES ALL CASH!!!!!." I am just stating that I am looking to buy in the Escondido area. I also make mention of the fact I don't have any assistants, I am the person you will be dealing with.

    I hope the more "personal" ad will yield decent results, but we shall see.

  • Real Estate Investor · the villages, FL · Member since 2008 · 5k+ posts · 3k+ votes
    17y

    MJ- Good idea on the wording. I always found it beneficial to explain I was the principal, only one the seller would be dealing with, and the decision maker. Good luck on overcoming the slight fear. It gets to be easy after awhile. Rich in Cancun today.

  • Flipper/Rehabber · Indianapolis, IN · Member since 2009 · 128 posts · 35 votes
    17y

    Great post Rich. I agree, fear is the main thing holding people back. To overcome that fear, I believe they have to focus on one strategy and master it. How would you recommend overcoming that fear?

  • Real Estate Investor · the villages, FL · Member since 2008 · 5k+ posts · 3k+ votes
    17y

    Ryan- knowledge helps overcome it a lot. The other thing is baby steps. Do some paper trading. Pretend you're buying a property. Get up close and personal to it. Check it out thoroughly. Make it a perspective buy and sell. San diego might be a little tuff, but some of the inland cities in s. cal might be fun to shop in. Rich

  • Real Estate Investor · Indianapolis, IN · Member since 2009 · 120 posts · 13 votes
    16y

    Reading these success stories in itself gives me motivation and helps get rid of fears! All newbie investors should come to this forum when they have doubts. Just knowing that it CAN be done, and learning how people are doing deals is inspiring. It is important to keep in mind that any problems you run into are all learning experiences. Embrace them, don't fear them!

  • Real Estate Investor · the villages, FL · Member since 2008 · 5k+ posts · 3k+ votes
    16y

    Christie- Thanks for ressurecting my thread. Minimize problems and you will be happier! Rich

  • Flipper/Rehabber · Mobile, AL · Member since 2010 · 138 posts · 55 votes
    16y

    Rich, great post!
    Christie, I should thank you as well then :)

    Old fashion fear.
    Stops us from everything.
    Talking to a woman, going bungee jumping, or doing your first real estate deal.

    The best cure to get over the fear....
    There's not one.
    Treat fear like a pebble in your shoe.
    Annoying but bearable.
    Feel the fear and do it anyway.

    Another answer.
    Accountability.
    Make sure that you have to answer to someone (even a group) if you don't take action...

  • Real Estate Investor · Craigmont, ID · Member since 2009 · 564 posts · 239 votes
    16y
    Originally posted by Brooks Conkle:
    Rich, great post!
    Christie, I should thank you as well then :)

    Old fashion fear.
    Stops us from everything.
    Talking to a woman, going bungee jumping, or doing your first real estate deal.

    The best cure to get over the fear....
    There's not one.
    Treat fear like a pebble in your shoe.
    Annoying but bearable.
    Feel the fear and do it anyway.

    Another answer.
    Accountability.
    Make sure that you have to answer to someone (even a group) if you don't take action...

    Who leaves a pebble in their shoe????? :roll:
    Ok,
    Maybe halfway up the face of a cliff or when in a firefight where you can't just sit down and take your shoe off.

    I totally agree! I was just reading some of the disgusting comments with regard to the 16 year old who's emergency beacon was deployed in the middle of the Indian ocean. She was pursuing a dream. I wish we all had dreams/goals that big. Most of the people I know just live to beat their high score on the latest video game. :roll:

  • Real Estate Investor · the villages, FL · Member since 2008 · 5k+ posts · 3k+ votes
    16y

    Thats why I wear sandals! Pebbles just pass through.

    Sam M- What is investing like in MT. I have a son and his wife in Missoula that just had their second baby, looking for a larger home. I've suggested they wait a bit longer. What are you seeing? Rich

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