Juan Zabala

Hello to all. My name is Juan Zabala and I have been a real estate investor since 2013. I currently own 10 units and working to increase that unit count in the upcoming year. I have also participated in a few flips where I worked with a private money lender. I always tell people that being in real estate is like playing baseball, you don't get better by just watching. You have to go up to the plate and swing the bat. I have horror stories that serve as lessons moving forward. From the boiler breaking down on me and having to find money to fix it. Tenants completely trashing my house. Dealing with the city codes office and not understanding the zoning rules. Or more recently in DC, learning the impact of TOPA on a multi-family transaction. Failure is a tool for inspiration and I believe that the first step is crucial. I enjoy people who are NOT afraid to fail and take a chance on themselves! That's why I love real estate. A little about me: Licensed Realtor since 2013- Licensed in PA (License currently in escrow). Currently licensed in Maryland and Washington DC. Investor- I currently own 10 units in two PA markets. That portfolio consist of a storage unit, single family home, land holding, commercial storefronts, and multifamily. I have experience working with Section 8 tenants. Former restaurant owner- One of the first lessons I learned about real estate was trying to sell my restaurant to McDonalds. Franchises purchase differently than individual investors. Former Vice Chairman of the Redevelopment Authority- Assisted in the transaction of numerous multimillion dollars of commercial real estate. Created the Land Disposition policy for my local community. Board member of Neighborhood Housing Service- Assisted many first time homeowners to build the skills necessary to purchase their first home. Also, acquired with other organizations to rehab dilapidated homes in the inner city. Current student- Currently pursuing my Masters in Real Estate Development from Georgetown University. Working on a capstone project that uses real estate as a tool to help increase literacy rates and economic outcomes for elementary school students and their families. Small Business Coach and Loan officer- I work with a local non-profit to assist small business owners with technical assistance. I am also a micro-lender for these small businesses.