So you’re investing in real estate…but are you investing in yourself? Here’s the harsh truth – none of us are naturally adept at building an ideal financial future on our own. For some, financial success comes from parents who instill lessons of self-discipline and the value of a dollar. For others, it comes from personal research, lots of reading, or even degrees and certifications.

No one expects a passive real estate investor to be an absolute expert. You didn’t sign up for a passive gig just for it to turn into a full-time job! 

Sometimes, the best deals you do are the ones you said “no” to.

“How is that possible?” you might ask. We live in a time when the real estate market is competitive and contentious. That’s true for the average buyer, and it’s true for investors. Even now, we sense FOMO – the fear of missing out – plaguing the real estate industry. Potential homebuyers are afraid they won’t win their bid. Investors are worried they’ll miss out on once-in-a-lifetime deals. They think they’re doing something wrong if they’re not participating in the hottest new investment market.

But sometimes, staying out of it is better than jumping in.

Though the factors that sway the rise and fall of the real estate market can be varied and complex, there’s no denying that housing inventory is among the most impactful. As one of the most significant talking points among investors and real estate professionals, we must all understand how inventory impacts what we do – and the industry.

There are plenty of qualities we’d say are necessary for one’s success as a real estate investor. There are two of the traditional “holy virtues” we’d consider non-negotiable for success: diligence and patience. But let’s be honest, we’ve hammered in the importance of diligence (in the form of due diligence). We’re going to keep talking about it, too. 

It’s almost a given at this point. That’s why we want to discuss the neglected, overlooked, and fundamental virtue of patience.

Investing in real estate can be lucrative, offering long-term financial stability and wealth accumulation. While there are countless strategies to employ as a real estate investor, one of the most popular is turnkey SFR (single-family rental) investing. This method appeals to individuals seeking a more hands-off and hassle-free investment experience.

So how does it work?

Turnkey real estate investing involves purchasing properties fully renovated and managed by a third-party company, allowing investors to enjoy passive income without the day-to-day responsibilities of property management. Investors leverage the experience of these turnkey companies, who often buy, renovate, sell, and manage properties in-house, to benefit their portfolios. 

Owning investment property can be time consuming. So much so that it can encroach and even eclipse other aspects of life. It can, at times, feel like a huge time-suck, compromising family time, leisure time, as well as time to extend and grow wealth. It doesn't have to be that way. There are ways to own investment properties, manage them effectively, and maintain their profitability, while preserving time to have a gratifying life.