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How I Replaced My 9–5 with Real Estate in Under 2 Years

REI Deal Finders

Release Date: 12/30/2025

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More Episodes

In this episode, I share my story from being burnt out in hospitality to building a thriving real estate business and founding the Deal Finders Club. Originally featured on the Breakaway Wealth podcast with Jim Oliver, we dive into what it really takes to break away from the 9–5 and build lasting wealth through real estate—even if you’re starting with little money, limited time, and a whole lot of doubt.

 

You’ll hear how I went from scraping together our first few rentals to scaling a portfolio that allowed my wife to retire in just two years. We talk about real numbers, real struggles, and the mindset it takes to succeed in a world that often tells you to play it safe. If you’ve ever wondered whether real estate investing is still possible “in this market,” this episode is for you.

 


 

Episode Highlights

 

[0:00] – Introudction

[1:15] – How I stumbled into real estate out of desperation and a desire for freedom

[2:35] – The reality of bad buys, no cash flow, and DIY property management

[4:10] – The moment my wife and I decided we were either all in—or all out

[4:45] – How we added 34 doors in two years and hit our goal of full-time freedom

[6:14] – Why real estate has to be treated like a business if you want it to work

[7:00] – Starting with a $30K loan and flipping our way into rentals

[8:20] – Why most people fail: not a lack of deals, but a lack of belief and clarity

[9:12] – How the Deal Finders Club was born (and why it’s about local opportunities)

[13:32] – Why “you can’t buy real estate right now” is a myth—and always has been

[15:12] – The two ways to buy real estate right: at a discount or for cash flow

[17:48] – How to connect with me directly and get the support you need

[20:27] – The best advice I’ve ever received—and why you can’t quit

 


 

5 Key Takeaways

  1. You don’t need perfect timing—you need the right mindset and strategy.
  2. Flipping can be a tool—not the goal—for building long-term rental wealth.
  3. Mentorship and community fast-track your success and cut down mistakes.
  4. Opportunities are everywhere—but only if your eyes and mind are open.
  5. The path is hard, but it’s worth it. Success starts when you refuse to quit.


 

Links & Resources

  • DealFindersClub.com – Join the community or grab free resources

  • Phone/Text: 803-216-5750 – Best way to reach me directly

 


 

If this episode resonated with you, please follow, share, and leave a review. And if you’re serious about doing your first—or next—deal, reach out. I’d love to connect.

 

Let’s go find your next deal.