All Forum Posts by: Deisy P.

@Deisy P.

Hi Deisy, I am a woman in the biz. I would ask why you decided to do real estate in the first place? I have been at it over 10 years. If those reasons still exist, don’t let a bunch of butt scratchers run you off the playground. Everyone has days they want to quit - if you don’t, you ain’t in real estate!

You have to set up systems that allow you to protect yourself. It doesn’t happen overnight. It is really important to align with some tradesmen you can trust.

You do that by getting references, getting multiple (3-5) bids, researching your project on you tube beforehand, and not letting your money get ahead of the work. Call BS quickly when you see it with the laborers. Do not allow contractors to manipulate you or tell you how to do your business. Your job, your money, your way. Also, do an honest self appraisal - utilize your strengths and hire for your weaknesses. Pushovers don’t get far in this business - you really have to understand and be able to enforce clear boundaries. If you are a softie, a giver, always looking for the good...save yourself and get a property manager. You can still invest but you will be a happier person.

I like the autonomy of being an investor. I like doing things I thought I couldn’t. I like making big checks. I like laughing guys off the property when they try to give me an inflated bid because I am a woman. It irks me but I like knowing I can weed out the bad because I have had so much experience doing it, lol! Knowing how to outline the scope of work, following through, and paying on time will make you a desirable person to do business with - hang in there👍🏼

@Deisy P.

I hate to hear your struggles but they will only make you stronger. Don't give up yet. One thing I tell myself often is if I'm comfortable I'm not learning. Learning and bettering oneself is uncomfortable. Being a female in a male dominate industry is challenging and sometimes people don't realize small comments they make can really irritate you like the "where is the man of the house". Though it sounds like you were taken advantage of you should say this is because you need to educate yourself further. My advise for getting work done 1. Always get multiple quotes for a project 2. Ask them to walk you through what they would do and take notes so you can do some research later and compare to the next company 3. Ask who will be doing the work ( them, employees, subcontractor) 4. Time frame 5. I would never pay the full amount until they are done and you are able to inspect the work 6. Keep this up and keep asking around for good contractors/handy men you will find one it can just take time.

I am lucky that my husband is my partner that has a decent amount of construction experience I can lean on but real estate is my baby and I'm the one taking care of everything. I'm also a female engineer and understand the challenges but you need to not let the comments people make get to you or take the moment to educate them on how rude a comment they just made. I'm not saying it's not irritating and that I don't get mad or that I haven't just told someone to leave at that very moment. Stay after it or like others have suggested look for a partner to help you. Good luck you can do this!