I retired as an Army Captain in 2023 and I currently work as a manager in aerospace defense manufacturing managing a ~$3.8B production portfolio.

You’re thinking about it the right way — steady growth, sustainable systems, and quality assets will compound quickly.

A resource based system.

I’ve done live in flips, new manufactured homes, and a full gut renovation with my husband.

Appliance manufacturers are seeking cost efficiency to preserve margins, thus parts are not lasting as long.

So yeah, our economic system is an inflation system. 

Quote from @William Thompson: One thing I’ve noticed working with a lot of investors is this:People spend a ton of time researching markets, strategies, and financing…but almost no time building the habits that actually keep their portfolio healthy long-term.Here’s the simple truth:Your systems will make or break your growth.Not the market.Not the deal.Not even the interest rate.I’ve seen investors with average deals but great systems outperform people buying in the best markets with none.Things like:Keeping clean booksTracking expenses in real timeReviewing your numbers monthlyHaving a game plan before tax seasonThese aren’t exciting, but they’re the difference between “I think I made money” and “I know exactly what’s working.”Real estate is more forgiving than most businesses… but eventually, disorganization catches up.The investors who last are the ones who treat it like a business early — even when they only own one door.What’s one system or habit that’s helped you stay organized as your portfolio grows? 

Unless the litigation involves a manufacturing defect in the car, pass.

I would invest in a security system that is portable enough to move from construction to construction and not stay at the property once it is rented. 

I quit my manufacturing job in September due to health issues.