From the desk of C.J Lauria
In my last article we discussed the importance of finding a real estate mentor with well-rounded experience and success, but also skilled in the art of teaching. They would have to be patient, open-minded and innovative. The word innovative is key when it comes to real estate investing. This is because as the market goes through its cycles, methods and techniques must change. What worked a few years ago just doesn’t apply now, period! That’s why these “gurus” who claim to offer the “end-all” system for wealth in real estate investment make me laugh. Actually, the laughing soon turns to nausea as I see a myriad of sincere folks flocking to purchase a “dead” program. It is important you recognize that anyone offering a system that came from a different curve in the market may not have any value at all. Successes from those days may be completely irrelevant. That’s why I am an advocate of extreme creativity. In my Mentor for Life™business plan my team works hard to stay ahead of the trends so I am able to keep fresh material and training in front of my students. Many of the methods we use were not employed 12 months ago and many others will likely not be used 12 months from now. Thus, if a mentor is not willing to change with the times, they are not a good bet and a pathetic waste of money. In all actuality, one who sells a system from yesteryear is conducting a scam. Each technique should have an expiration date on it, much like fresh food. I doubt you would buy meat, dairy or produce that was 12 months past its freshness date. If a Grocer was selling goods like that they would be shut down in a heartbeat! Another feature that should come with a qualified Mentor is integrity. It’s one thing to produce a bunch of content and yet another to care what’s being done with it. What I mean is; a true “mentor” works to assist the student in each deal until they are completely confident with their new found skills. They understand and teach the principles behind deal making and see to it that the student fully comprehends the philosophy. Often, so-called “mentors” will simply provide materials and then it is up to the student to make it happen. Understandably, without a vested interest in the student’s business it’s not likely that adequate follow-through will take place. In my next article I will talk about some positive aspects of good real estatementorship and where to find it.
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