Lance Edwards' Apartment Wealth Info

Networking should be a primary form of marketing for all real estate entrepreneurs who are seeking investors. One reason is because networking costs very little but that connection brings with it a lot of trust, so it’s easier to ask for, and get, investors. Another reason is because the SEC has strict rules about how you can get private money and advertising for it is illegal. And the third reason that networking should be on your to-do list is because it’s something you’re always doing; you’re always meeting people, shaking hands, and connecting.

Sometimes, new real estate entrepreneurs ask me about where they should be meeting potential investors. My first answer is: “Everywhere!” It doesn’t matter where you are, if there is someone else in the room, you can network with them. They might invest with you or, just as often, they’ll know someone who might be interested.

Networking Opportunity 1: Your friends
Your friends are a great source of private wealth because they trust you and they want to succeed and they want you to succeed! Understandably, some people are hesitant about asking their friends for money but I can’t think of a single friend who wouldn’t want me to do well, and would be interested in sharing the wealth and the risk if the opportunity presented itself. Even if you don’t want to ask your friends for money, talk to them about your deal because they know dozens, maybe hundreds, of people and their trust in you will be “passed on” to their friends. Some of the sweetest words any investor can hear are, “we have a mutual friend who suggested that I talk to you about investing some of my money”

Networking Opportunity 2: Associations or clubs
It’s likely that you belong to an association or a club of some kind. It might be a social club or it might have a purpose (like business networking, or learning to speak in public, or an industry-specific organization). These groups are breeding grounds for deals and opportunities because many of these groups are formed for like-minded people who are driven to succeed. Openly share about your opportunities at various events. Even if you are reluctant to ask for money, share about your positive experiences and successes and you’ll likely find people asking you how they can be involved.

Networking Opportunity 3: Charitable organizations
This might surprise you because charities are usually asking for money for their own philanthropic needs, but you can still benefit. I recommend working in the fundraising department of a charitable organization so you can meet people where the money is. And there’s another reason, too. A little karma in the world isn’t that bad – give a lot and get a lot!

Networking Opportunity 4: Your job
Some of you might full time investors so this one won’t apply, but many readers will be putting together those first few deals and will still be juggling a job. Your coworkers trust you, and if you’re looking to make enough money to quit your job, they probably are, too. Just be careful: Don’t spend your work time talking about investment opportunities or you’ll find yourself out of a job sooner than you planned. Instead, invite some coworkers out after work and tell them about your project.

Networking Opportunity 5: Real estate clubs
This opportunity is gold! I’ve seen a few in action and I wish there were more. Basically, a real estate club meets periodically so like-minded real estate investors can gather to discuss who has real estate opportunities to sell and who has money available to invest. Consider starting one in your area to create one of the fastest ways to private money available right now.