Blog - DealMachine for Real Estate Investing

Key Moments that Can Make or Break Your Real Estate Business

Written by Benjy Nichols | Aug 30, 2024 2:00:00 PM

Today, we dive into a valuable conversation with Angel Hagen, a seasoned real estate investor who transitioned from a diverse professional background into a full-time real estate entrepreneur. This blog is filled with insights, practical tips, and inspiring stories that offer invaluable guidance for anyone looking to make their mark in the real estate sector.

A Journey from Mental Health to Real Estate

Angel Hagen's path to real estate was anything but conventional. Coming from a robust background in mental health and state government, Angel spent twelve years working in the mental health and substance use department. Her tenure in this field was driven by a passion for helping people in challenging situations.

In 2009, a turning point occurred when her husband, previously in construction, was injured and could no longer continue in his trade. This adversity led them to seek new opportunities, eventually diving into the world of real estate with enthusiasm and dedication.

"We really didn't know what we were doing. And, you know, we're still learning every day. We're still trying to figure it out."

Angel's openness about their ongoing learning process highlights that expertise in real estate is a continuous journey rather than a final destination.

Transitioning to Full-Time Real Estate

For many, transitioning from a stable nine-to-five job to a full-time real estate career can be daunting. Angel shares that adequate planning is essential for a smooth transition.

Key Strategies for a Successful Transition:

  1. Financial Preparation: Ensure you have a financial cushion to replace your regular income and cover essential expenses like healthcare.
  2. Clear Goals: Set realistic and achievable goals for your real estate endeavors. Understand that building wealth through rentals is often a long-term game.
  3. Consistent Habits: Maintain disciplined habits akin to those in a corporate job, even as an entrepreneur. This includes setting appointments with yourself and respecting them as you would with any other important figure.

Setting Goals and Establishing Business Vision

Angel emphasizes the importance of aligning your business practices with your passions, core values, and long-term vision. She points out that many people get distracted by trying multiple real estate niches without a clear direction.

Key Steps to Establish Effective Goals:

  1. Identify Your Passion: Understand what you enjoy doing and how it aligns with your business interests.
  2. Vision and Core Values: Clearly define your vision and core values to ensure they steer your business decisions.
  3. Custom Approach: Rather than following generic advice, tailor your strategies to fit your unique goals and circumstances.

Building a Strong Team and Community

Transitioning from a corporate environment, Angel missed the team dynamics and community support. She underscores the importance of building a capable team and connecting with a like-minded community to prevent feeling isolated.

"Having a small surrounding of people who are kind of your team, you know, even if they aren't, you know, that's important."

Whether you are an introvert or an extrovert, finding your tribe in the real estate world can offer both professional support and personal camaraderie.

Advice for New Real Estate Entrepreneurs

Angel shares invaluable advice for those contemplating a switch from a steady job to real estate, focusing on the need for preparedness and realistic expectations.

Essential Tips:

  1. Financial Readiness: Have a solid financial plan to deal with the absence of a regular paycheck.
  2. Strategic Planning: Know that immediate wealth from rentals is unlikely; explore other lucrative options like flipping houses or short-term rentals.
  3. Execution and Habits: Focus on strong execution of your plans and develop productive habits that contribute to your goals.

Working with a Spouse in Business

Angel also talks about her unique experience of working with her spouse in the real estate business, highlighting the importance of clear communication and defined roles.

Best Practices for a Successful Partnership:

  1. Separate Business and Personal Life: Treat business meetings with your spouse as formal work commitments.
  2. Stick to Your Lanes: Identify individual strengths and responsibilities, giving each other space to operate independently.
  3. Regular Check-Ins: Schedule regular meetings to discuss business matters, keeping personal life distinct from work issues.

Conclusion

Angel Hagen's journey from mental health professional to a successful real estate entrepreneur offers numerous lessons for anyone looking to break into the real estate sector. Her focus on goal-setting, community building, and clear communication provides a robust framework for success. By sharing her story, Angel inspires and equips aspiring real estate professionals to navigate their unique paths with confidence and strategy.

For those interested in connecting with Angel, she is available on social media and can be reached via email at angel@mastiffhomeuyers.com. Her mission is to promote mindset, wealth-building, and creating both internal and external success.

This conversation not only highlights the intricacies of transitioning into the real estate field but also underscores the importance of staying true to one's passions, maintaining disciplined habits, and fostering collaborative environments.