All Forum Posts by: Julie Gates

Thank you, Joshua. Please join us sometime! We have an awesome group of local investors here. Lots and lots of military and former military.

When I finally put down my paint brush and began seeking out other real estate investors, I noticed something: every meetup I went to was almost entirely men. Don’t get me wrong, they were welcoming, but I often felt a little out of place. Conversations were dominated by guys, and the few women I met quietly admitted that they felt the same way—intimidated by the room. I enjoyed the speakers and got to know a few people, but I didn’t feel at home, even though I had a significant portfolio of my own. I also noticed that meetups were infrequent. I needed more.

That’s when I decided to do something about it. I started a small gathering just for female investors in my hometown of Savannah, GA. We called it the Savannah Meetup for Lady Real Estate Investors. At the beginning, it was a safe space for women to come together, share ideas, and talk about investing without feeling like outsiders. The ladies who showed up to those first few events were incredible. I was amazed at what we achieved with just a few events.

Within a month or two, something interesting happened: men started showing up. Some of them told me they wanted to attend from the beginning but were hesitant because of the name. The noise got louder: “I want to come, but it’s for women!” That’s when it hit me—we were unintentionally excluding people who wanted to learn and contribute. We quickly rebranded into what is now known as the Cashflow Savannah Meetup.

That small shift changed everything. The group grew into a real community. Today, it’s not just a networking event—it’s a support system. We share vendors, team up on deals, exchange ideas, and genuinely root for each other’s successes. I can honestly say that starting this meetup has been one of the most positive moves I’ve made, not only for my business but also for my personal growth.

Why You Should Start One Too

If you’ve ever felt like you’re navigating real estate—or any business—on your own, a meetup can change that. Here’s why I believe every town should have one:

1. Collaboration beats competition.
Instead of seeing other investors as competitors, you realize how much more you can achieve together. Partnerships form naturally, and opportunities multiply when people pool their strengths.

2. Access to trusted resources.
From contractors to lenders to agents, having a group that openly shares their contacts is invaluable. It saves time, money, and headaches.

3. Accountability and support.
It’s easy to let goals slide when you’re working alone. But when you’re part of a group, you’re motivated to take action because others are doing the same.

4. A safe space to learn.
No matter your level of experience, a meetup gives you a forum to ask questions, learn from others, and share your wins (and losses) without judgment.

5. Now you know “A Guy.”
Real estate is a team sport. Every other day you're going to need a vendor, an opinion on an issue, or a lifeline. The more people you know, the more likely you can solve problems with one or two phone calls or texts.

Growing Your Portfolio as a Team

One of the most powerful outcomes of a meetup is how it impacts your investing journey. Deals that might have seemed out of reach on your own suddenly become possible when you connect with others; local people who have done this before. You gain perspective on new strategies, hear about opportunities you would have missed otherwise, and develop real friendships along the way.

At our most recent meet up, a couple in the audience had just gotten a duplex under contract. They were worried about structural issues found on the inspection report. I connected them with 4-5 attendees who reviewed the report with them and assured them that the duplex was still a solid purchase.

I often tell people: you don’t need to wait for someone else to create the perfect group. If you see a need in your town—whether it’s real estate, small business, or any other interest—step up and start one. You’ll be amazed at how quickly it grows and how much it gives back to you.

Starting the Cashflow Savannah Meetup was never part of some grand plan. It began as a small, casual gathering. But it’s turned into one of the most rewarding parts of my real estate journey. If you’ve ever thought about starting a meetup in your own community, take this as your sign. You won’t regret it.

If you’re ever in Savannah, this is your invitation to stop by one of our events. I can assure you that you’ll leave with a lot of new friends. If you ever want my advice on starting your own meetup, please comment below or reach out anytime. We are truly all in this together.

(Old meetup photo is posted here for reference)

Please join us for our monthly meetup. We will be doing a deep dive into how to do seller financing. Don't miss this!

This event is free, we do ask that you support Java Burrito by purchasing food or a drink on your way down.

Please come and bring a friend!

Please come join us at our monthly meetup. This event is Free!

Investment Info:

Industrial industrial investment investment.

Purchase price: $225,000
Cash invested: $22,500

Acquired a self-storage property requiring improved management. Initially, the facility lacked visibility, with no Google recognition or online presence. Transitioned all tenants to a digital payment system and adjusted rents to align with current market rates. Achieved over 100% revenue growth within six months.

How did you finance this deal?

The acquisition was funded through seller financing. The buyer contributed 10% of the purchase price in cash and financed the remaining 90% directly with the seller at a 5% APR, structured over a 10-year term.

How did you add value to the deal?

Value enhancements included installing improved signage, registering the business on Google, and implementing an online payment system. Previously, the seller relied on paper invoices and check payments. Delinquent tenants were either brought current on rent or had their stored items auctioned off.

What was the outcome?

The property’s revenue increased from $1,738 per month to $5,245 per month, reflecting a 201.8% growth in income. Expansion plans for the facility are scheduled for implementation in 2025.