This month’s blog, “Behind the Scenes: A Day in the Life of Real Estate Investors,” is brought to you by our talented summer intern, Andres Gonzalez. For his capstone project, Andres takes a deep dive into the world of real estate investing, offering unique perspectives on daily activities and valuable insights, giving readers an inside look at this dynamic industry.
The world of real estate investing often appears glamorous and straightforward on social media. However, the reality is a blend of late nights, strategic planning, and continuous learning. To shed light on what it’s truly like, we spent a day with Alex DeLeon and her father, Steve DeLeon, the dynamic duo behind MCM Real Estate Services and MCM University. Here’s a peek into their daily lives, filled with challenges and rewards that make their journey unique and fulfilling.
Early Morning Routine: Starting the Day Right
Alex DeLeon: Alex’s day begins between 6:30 and 7:00 AM. The start of her morning is dedicated to personal time, setting a positive tone for the rest of the day. She emphasizes the importance of a balanced morning, including activities that recharge her before diving into the demanding world of real estate.
Steve DeLeon: Steve wakes up at 6:30 AM and starts his day with a walk with his dog, followed by a cup of coffee. This routine helps him clear his mind and prepare for the day’s tasks. By 8:00 AM, Steve is ready to head to the office or work from home, depending on his schedule.
Morning: Organization and Planning
Both Alex and Steve divide their mornings into crucial activities to stay organized and efficient. Alex relies heavily on a detailed calendar and to-do lists, ensuring she doesn’t miss any important tasks. Steve, on the other hand, leverages technology, switching between his PC and Mac to seamlessly access all necessary information from his devices.
Steve: “My mornings involve prospecting for new properties, evaluating current deals, and following up on various transactions. Staying organized is key, and Alex helps keep me on track.”
Midday: Hands-On with Properties and Clients
Around 11:00 AM, Alex and Steve shift their focus to fieldwork. This involves visiting properties, managing ongoing renovations, and meeting with contractors and clients. It’s during this time that their deep knowledge of market trends, property values, and the nitty-gritty of renovation costs comes into play.
Alex: “I love the freedom and the thrill of working with my dad. There’s no ceiling to what we can achieve together, and each day brings new challenges and opportunities.”
Afternoon: Collaboration and Education
After lunch, which often includes business discussions, Alex and Steve continue with site visits and client meetings. They also dedicate time to educational endeavors through MCM University, helping aspiring real estate investors learn the ropes.
Steve: “The industry has changed drastically with the advent of technology. The internet and digital tools have made everything more accessible, which is both a blessing and a challenge. We need to stay updated and adapt continuously.”
Evening: Wrapping Up and Reflecting
Evenings are often the busiest for Alex, who identifies as a night owl. She finds her most productive hours late at night, working on strategic planning, responding to emails, and preparing for the next day. Steve, on the other hand, takes his work home, often working until 8:00 PM, handling phone calls, and finalizing transactions.
Alex: “Balancing everything is hard, especially during the spring and summer when the market is bustling. But the freedom and potential for growth make it all worth it.”
Challenges and Rewards
Transitioning from structured careers to the fluid world of real estate was challenging for both Alex and Steve. Significant hurdles included the unpredictability of income, late nights, and the need for seed money. Yet, the freedom, the joy of working together, and the ability to take risks and learn from them have been immensely rewarding.
Steve: “Long-term investing is what I enjoy most—creating revenue from a property and watching its value appreciate over time. Despite the challenges, seeing our investments grow is incredibly fulfilling.”
Balancing Act and Entrepreneurial Spirit
Alex and Steve highlight the importance of family support in their entrepreneurial journey. The ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously, stay open-minded, and adapt quickly are vital traits for success.
Alex: “Entrepreneurship means being comfortable with discomfort. It’s not for everyone—there’s a lot of fluff around the subject, but the reality involves a lot of hard work and risk-taking.”
Final Thoughts and Advice
Reflecting on their journey, Alex and Steve offer valuable advice. Alex encourages taking risks and diving in, while Steve emphasizes viewing failures as opportunities to learn.
Steve: “There’s no such thing as failure, only learning experiences. Don’t expect success overnight, but with perseverance and support, you can achieve great things.”
A day in the life of Alex and Steve DeLeon is a testament to the dedication and hard work required in real estate investing. While it may not always be as glamorous as it appears on social media, the freedom, growth potential, and personal satisfaction make it incredibly fulfilling. Through their journey, they inspire others to embrace the challenges and rewards of real estate investing, always aiming for more while appreciating the present.
