Proven set of Principles
Real estate investing is one of the most powerful vehicles for building long-term wealth—but it’s not about chasing hot markets or guessing your way to success. Great investors follow a proven set of principles, grounded in experience and discipline.
After years in the business, I’ve narrowed my personal investing philosophy down to 7 essential rules—plus one key mindset that ties them all together:
Every property is a business. And your calendar is your greatest asset.
Let’s dive in.
1. Make the Dollars in the Buy
Profit starts when you purchase.
The most important number in any deal is your purchase price. Buying at a discount builds in equity, protects you from market fluctuations, and increases your chances of success from day one. If you’re overpaying, you’re already behind.
🎯 Rule of thumb: Run the numbers first. Stick to your criteria. Be willing to walk away.
2. Add Value
Create appreciation, don’t wait for it.
Whether it’s a full renovation, a minor cosmetic upgrade, or smarter property management, there should always be a clear way to improve the asset. This is how you force appreciation and drive returns regardless of what the market does.
🛠️ Ask yourself: How can I make this property more valuable than it is today?
3. Make Offers
You can’t close deals you don’t pursue.
Opportunities don’t come from waiting—they come from making offers. Even if you’re unsure, practice underwriting and submitting offers regularly. The more you do, the sharper your instincts become, and the more deals you’ll land.
📈 Reminder: Real estate is a numbers game. Offers = options.
4. Have Exits
Always invest with the end in mind.
Before you buy, know how you’ll get out. Smart investors have multiple exit strategies—sell, rent, refinance, wholesale, or hold long-term. Your ability to adapt to the market depends on your ability to pivot.
🧭 Pro tip: If your only strategy is “hold and hope,” it’s time to rethink the deal.
5. Be Embarrassed
If you’re not cringing at your first deal, you waited too long.
Everyone starts somewhere. Taking action—even imperfect action—is how you learn, grow, and succeed. Don’t wait until you know everything. Learn by doing.
🚀 Growth mindset: Progress beats perfection every time.
6. Be Legal
Protect yourself. Protect your business.
Operate with full awareness of local, state, and federal laws. From contracts and zoning to tenant rights and tax reporting—ignorance isn’t an excuse. Building a sustainable business means operating by the book.
📚 Legal rule: Use professionals. Don’t DIY legal structures or shortcuts.
7. Have Integrity
Do what you say. Say what you mean.
In real estate, your reputation is your currency. Whether you’re working with partners, tenants, lenders, or contractors—integrity matters. Deals may come and go, but trust and credibility compound over time.
🤝 Simple truth: People want to do business with people they trust.
Every Property Is a Business
This isn’t a side hustle. It’s a business. Each property should have:
- A profit and loss statement
- A business plan
- A strategy for growth or improvement
- Clear accountability (that’s you)
Treat your portfolio like a company, not a collection of investments.
Make Your Calendar Your Friend
Time is the most overlooked asset in real estate. Block your time intentionally—for deal analysis, property visits, relationship building, and strategic thinking. Consistent time management separates hobbyists from professionals.
📅 Your calendar reflects your priorities. Make sure they match your goals.
Final Thoughts
Real estate investing rewards those who are disciplined, strategic, and ethical. Follow these seven rules. Treat every property like a business. And use your calendar to stay focused and intentional.
If you’re serious about creating long-term wealth, the path is clear—you just have to walk it.