Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Ismael Reyes, Founder of MI Real Estate, LLC., located in Orlando, FL, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
As a real estate investor, I own several businesses, which all work together toward the acquisition and management of real estate. First, I founded MI Real Estate, LLC, a real estate investing firm. I then founded and am the Managing Principal of Admirable Group LLC, also a real estate investing and asset management firm. I also founded and am a Managing Member of Stressless Capital LLC, which is a real estate private equity capital firm. My customers are my capital partners, who provide a majority of the capital so that we can purchase large multifamily assets - something that was only available to the rich in the past. They provide the capital, and we find and manage the assets.
Tell us about yourself
My parents moved my three siblings and me from Puerto Rico to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in search of a better life. They worked hard in blue-collar jobs to do so - my mother worked as a sewing machine operator, and my father worked in a tannery. These weren't high-paying jobs, so despite their long hours at work, many times we went without, especially since the family grew to 6 kids. I knew that I wanted to pursue higher education and work hard to provide my children the best that I could, just like my parents did for us.
I initially joined the Army to help pay for college, but I loved it so much that I served for over 28 years and retired as a Lieutenant Colonel. While I loved serving our country, I also had a passion for real estate - my favorite game growing up was Monopoly. I acquired several properties while in the military and obtained a Master's degree in Business Administration when I was certain that I wanted to have a second career in real estate. In my real estate investment career, I create generational wealth for my family and also help others do the same. I especially love helping service members and veterans.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Since I retired from the military in 2019, I've acquired 15 properties with over 1000 units valued at over 125m dollars, but my biggest accomplishment by far is providing a 60% average annual return on investment to my investment partners. I also enjoy providing totally free real estate educational material through YouTube.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Balancing the various responsibilities and demands of running my businesses is one of the most difficult tasks. Business owners frequently wear many hats, from managing finances and operations to marketing and sales, and it can be difficult to prioritize and manage all of these tasks effectively.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Do What You Love: Doing what you love is important when starting a business because it can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment that can help you persevere through the challenges and uncertainty of running a business. It's easier to stay motivated and committed to your business when you're passionate about it.
Additionally, when you are passionate about something, you are more likely to put in the extra effort, time, and energy required to make your business successful. When it comes to achieving your goals and overcoming obstacles, this can make all the difference.
Furthermore, doing what you love shows in your work and the quality of your products or services. Customers and clients looking for something special and unique may be drawn to this. Your passion can be a unique selling point that distinguishes your company from the competition. Finally, doing what you love can bring you joy and happiness, which can be beneficial to your mental and emotional well-being as a business owner. - Network and Build Relationships: Building a strong network of contacts can be invaluable for business owners. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and connect with other entrepreneurs to gain insights, expand your reach, and find new business opportunities.
- Be Adaptable: The business environment is constantly changing, so it's important to be able to adapt to new market conditions and customer needs. Be open to change and new ideas, and be willing to pivot your business strategy as needed.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://ismaelreyreyes.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheIsmaelReyReyes/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ismaelreyreyes/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/m_i_realestate
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ismaelreyreyes/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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