From the Heart of a Landlord: My Real Estate Journey
I love what I do — deeply, passionately, and from the very bottom of my heart. Helping people build wealth through real estate has been one of the most rewarding journeys of my life. Every renter I place, every lease I write, every property I purchase and manage — each one has taught me something new. I never stop learning.
Since 2005, I’ve had the honor of guiding countless clients into becoming savvy, seasoned investors. I’ve helped families put their kids through college and set up retirement plans that actually work. This all took an unexpected turn when one of my military clients was deployed and asked me to manage his buildings. Word got out and I kept picking up more and more investors as property management clients. My phone rang off the hook. That one favor turned into four intense years of managing properties across several counties. And let me tell you — I learned a lot.
Those sleepless years were like getting a Master’s Degree in Property Management. I learned what works, what doesn’t, and how critical it is to stay current with local and federal housing laws. That experience made me the landlord I am today — one who knows the game inside and out.
I bought my first property in 2006. Then another. And another. I’ve bought, sold, done 1031 exchanges, and I’m always preparing for the next deal. I don’t just buy properties — I study them. I calculate the ROI, remodeling costs, and I love negotiating. And when it comes to renting? Let’s just say I’ve set some local rent records that make my landlord clients very happy.
To put it simply: I actually enjoy being a landlord.
One of my favorite contractor jokes is, “Rentals come with 3 Ts: Tenants, Toilets, and Turnovers. But here’s the truth — when properties are wisely chosen and well-managed, they become powerful wealth-building machines. They appreciate over time, generate income, and create a solid foundation for generational wealth.
If you’re ready to learn the ropes, sharpen your skills, or just want some straight talk from someone in the trenches — subscribe to my newsletter: Savvy Landlord Academy.
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Let’s build wealth — wisely and with purpose!
Irina Allison, Broker – Owner, Investor
APEX Real Estate Brokerage
