I’m pulling back the curtain on how we got started in real estate investing. Spoiler alert: it all began with an Airbnb in our backyard. In this minisode, I’m sharing the behind-the-scenes of our six-year journey with short-term rentals—from building our ADU to navigating Portland’s ever-evolving STR laws, managing (and outsourcing) guests, and yes... restocking way too much toilet paper.

If you’re thinking about turning your space into a short-term rental or just curious about how STRs actually work, this episode is packed with honest insights, lessons learned, and practical tips for new and seasoned hosts alike. I’m also diving into what I believe is the next wave for real estate investors—and why the Airbnb model may not be the golden ticket it once was.

Here are the top takeaways from this episode:

1. Start with the Worst-Case Scenario to Run the Numbers

Before falling in love with Airbnb income projections, ground yourself in financial reality. Ann recommends always asking: Would this property still make sense as a long-term rental?

2. Know the Rules Before You Buy (and Expect Them to Change)

Short-term rental success isn’t just about aesthetics and occupancy—it's about legality. Understanding permitting, zoning, taxes, and even HOA restrictions can make or break your investment.

3. STRs Are Seasonal, Hands-On, and Require Replenishable Inventory

Cash flow might be stronger than long-term rentals, but you’re essentially running a mini hotel. STRs require ongoing expenses, restocking, and attention to comfort and cleanliness.

4. Property Management Isn’t All or Nothing, Find a Hybrid Model

If you don’t want to be glued to your phone managing guest check-ins, consider hybrid options. Tech tools and part-time managers can help balance profitability and peace of mind.

5. Trends Change, Be Willing to Evolve

Market cycles matter. Ann reminds us to zoom out and consider new models like midterm rentals or co-living before jumping into saturated strategies.

Want to learn more about real estate investing? Hop on the waitlist for the Soulful Investor Society, a community membership for real estate investors and those who'd like to get in the game. Once on the waitlist, you'll be the first to know when the doors open AND you'll get lots of amazing freebies, including a FREE 1:1 coaching session with me, where we'll map out your plan from start to finish, so you can finally buy that investment property and scale your portfolio.

You can also find me on IG @annreedandco where I share daily musings on real estate, mindfulness, being an almost empty nester, and more.

In today’s episode, I'm talking with Julie and Jaelle — two real estate agents turned real estate investors who are combining creative financing, smart renovations, and heart to shake up the investing space. We talk about seller financing strategies, fix and flip projects, and how they’re raising the next generation of investors (yes, their teens are on the job site!). Julie and Jaelle are the founders of Women Real Estate Investors of Oregon (WREIO) — a fast-growing, women-led real estate investing community that’s helping women take action and build generational wealth.

We dive into what it really takes to become a successful real estate investor, why community over competition is more than a catchphrase, and how intentional investing can create lasting impact.

Here are the top takeaways from this episode:

1. Real Estate as a Tool for Generational Wealth

Julie and Jaelle didn’t just find their way into real estate — they aligned around a shared mission to use it for long-term impact.

This shared vision has shaped their investing strategies, their business model, and how they involve their kids in the process.

2. Renovating for Profit—and for Purpose

Fix and flip isn’t just a hustle—it’s a smart, intentional strategy when the math checks out. These two make sure it aligns with their goals before diving in.

They also factor in the time-value equation and whether a project allows for family involvement, which ties back to their bigger “why.”

3. Seller Financing as a Creative Win-Win

Julie and Jaelle are using seller financing to structure deals that benefit everyone—especially the seller’s bottom line.

By negotiating directly, they were able to avoid extra fees, lower the interest rate, and create a smoother, more personal transaction.

4. Building a Women-Centered Investing Community

WREIO (Women Real Estate Investors of Oregon) began with a dozen women and now has over 1,100. It's become a hub of empowerment and action.

Whether they’re hosting in-person meetups, launching a virtual seminar series, or celebrating wins on Facebook, Julie and Jaelle are creating a space where women collaborate—not compete.

5. Community Is the Catalyst for Action

For anyone hesitant to get started, this was their powerful message: Whether you’re a noob (yes, they went there) or a seasoned investor, the encouragement, experience, and wisdom inside this community are what move people from fear to action.

To see what WREIO is all about check out their socials here:

https://www.instagram.com/wreio.oregon/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/wreio/

You can Find Julie and Jaelle here:

https://www.instagram.com/thejaygrouprealestate/

https://thejaygroup.kw.com/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAacmmgbN12unP6Vjcdd-UtKdP4o7jEyHdOgxGFxHaz3V_aHQOORrjUTbNldhzQ_aem_kqezhp3irW-vMvPIrwyyjA

Want to learn more about real estate investing? Hop on the waitlist for the Soulful Investor Society, a community membership for real estate investors and those who'd like to get in the game. Once on the waitlist, you'll be the first to know when the doors open AND you'll get lots of amazing freebies, including a FREE 1:1 coaching session with me, where we'll map out your plan from start to finish, so you can finally buy that investment property or grow your portfolio.

This episode is all about helping the next generation-our kids-start building wealth now instead of waiting until "someday."

If you’re a parent, auntie, mentor, or just someone who cares deeply about legacy, this one’s for you. We’re talking about creative ways to get young adults into their first property—even in today’s wild market. Think co-signing, first-time homebuyer programs, seller financing, and real talk about what to do (and not do) when helping your kids invest.

We also cover the not-so-obvious stuff: how to avoid turning a generous gift into a long-term headache, why it pays to model investing instead of just preaching it, and what questions to ask before saying “yes” to buying that condo near campus.

It’s fun, practical, and a little sentimental—in the best way. Let’s talk about planting the seeds of generational wealth, one door at a time. Here are the top takeaways:

1. Get Creative to Help Your Kids Enter the Real Estate Market Early

It’s no secret—homeownership feels out of reach for many young adults. But this episode reminds us that with the right tools (and mindset), parents can help their kids take the first step toward building real estate wealth.

2. Ownership Beats Renting—And It Can Start During College

Why pay rent to someone else when your kid could start building equity instead? Ann shares a case study that reimagines the college rental years as an investment opportunity.

3. Real Estate is a Long Game—Start Early for Compound Gains

Buying early isn’t just about a good deal—it’s about time in the market. Ann explains how compound appreciation and rent growth can outpace the cost of college itself.

4. Seller Financing Is an Underrated Wealth-Building Strategy

Traditional financing doesn’t work for everyone—especially entrepreneurial young adults. Seller financing could open new doors for families willing to think outside the box.

5. Help, Don’t Control: Teach, Model, and Let Them Lead

Helping your kids into homeownership works best when there’s alignment, not pressure. This episode emphasizes modeling wise investing and allowing room for their buy-in.

Want to learn more about real estate investing? Hop on the waitlist for the Soulful Investor Society, a community membership for real estate investors and those who'd like to get in the game. Once on the waitlist, you'll be the first to know when the doors open AND you'll get lots of amazing freebies, including a FREE 1:1 coaching session with me, where we'll map out your plan from start to finish, so you can finally buy that investment property an

In this episode, I’m joined by Justin Ford—former firefighter, Coast Guard captain, and one of the only people on the planet who’s made short-term rental safety his full-time mission. He’s seen it all, and let me tell you, once you hear what he knows about outdated smoke alarms, trip hazards, and record keeping, you’ll never look at your rental the same way again.

We dive into why safety is actually part of good hospitality, how a few overlooked details can cost you big time, and the easy upgrades that could protect your guests, your property, and your peace of mind.

So whether you’ve got ten Airbnbs or you’re just kicking tires on your first investment, this episode is packed with the kind of wisdom that’ll help you sleep better at night—and maybe even save a life. Here are the top takeaways:

1. Safety Is the Ultimate Hospitality Standard
As empowered investors, we strive for more than just pretty interiors, we create peace of mind. Justin reminds us that true hospitality means anticipating all guest needs, including emergencies. Safety isn’t optional; it’s part of the guest experience.

2. The #1 Overlooked Safety Feature
With modern furnishings made of synthetic materials, you now have less than three minutes to escape a fire. Yet most homes still rely on outdated or subpar alarms. Justin urges all hosts to upgrade to dual-detection smoke alarms—and hardwire them whenever possible.

3. Documentation Can Be Your Legal Lifeline
Whether you're self-managing or co-hosting, documentation is protection. Using task management software like Breezeway to track maintenance and safety tasks can mean the difference between winning a claim—or losing everything.

4. Don’t Assume Your Guests Know What to Do
Justin emphasizes that renters—especially vacationers—aren’t prepared for emergencies. Simple signage with address, emergency instructions, and access info can save lives. His pro tip? Post it on the fridge. Visibility matters.

5. Protecting Your Property Means Saying No (to Wine, Baby Gear & Bath Mats)
From avoiding alcohol gifts to skipping baby items, hosts must recognize that well-meaning extras can become liabilities. Keeping things minimal and professional (think white linens, clear walkways, no bath mats on arrival) protects your guests and your business.

You can find Justin on IG @shorttermrentalsafety, check out this blog post on Before you Buy - https://www.breezeway.io/blog/before-you-buy-an-airbnb-property

And for the Free Breezeway Acct - https://www.breezeway.io/get-started

Want to learn more about real estate investing? Hop on the waitlist for the Soulful Investor Society, a community membership for real estate investors and those who'd like to get in the game. Once on the waitlist, you'll be the first to know when the doors open AND you'll get lots of amazing freebies, including a FREE 1:1 coaching session with me, where we'll map out your plan from start to finish, so you can finally buy that investment property and scale your portfolio.

You can also find me on IG @annreedandco where I share daily musings on real estate, mindfulness, being an almost empty nester, and more.

If you've ever dreamed of investing in real estate but felt like you needed more money, more experience, or more time—this minisode is for you. Erin Clark didn’t start with capital or a plan. She started with a willingness to say yes and learn by doing.

In this powerful highlight reel from my full-length conversation with Erin, you'll hear the 10 most empowering takeaways from her journey: how she built a thriving business renovating and reselling homes, partnered with investors without using her own cash, and developed a creative brand that buyers actually seek out.

Whether you’re curious about getting into your first investment project or want a new perspective on what it means to build with care and confidence, Erin’s story is packed with actionable insight and inspiration.

Want the full blueprint? Don’t miss the full episode. Erin breaks it all down—from working with investor partners to calculating risk and finding your zone of genius. Go back and listen—it’s gold.

1. Redefining the F-Word in Real Estate

Erin doesn’t call herself a house flipper—she's intentional about the language she uses because it reflects the thoughtfulness behind her projects.

2. You Don’t Need Capital to Start

Erin built her business with zero personal capital by focusing on her time, skills, and project management.

3. Say Yes—Even When You Don’t Know How

Erin's whole business started by saying yes to something she had never done before—and betting on herself.

4. Confidence Is a Muscle Built Through Action

Rather than being fearless, Erin learned to get back up after falling—and that built lasting confidence.

5. Leverage YOUR Superpower

Erin discovered later in life that her spontaneous “just go for it” approach was rooted in ADHD—and it’s become one of her strengths.

6. Time Is a Valuable Investment Tool

IErin’s resource was time. For others looking to get started, offering time and skills can be the door into a new career.

7. Partnering Without Over-Renovating

Avoiding over-renovation starts with knowing your neighborhood inside and out—and having systems that protect profit.

8. Build a Brand, Not Just a House

Every home Erin touches tells a story—she designs with the future buyer in mind, building trust and demand.

9. Profit Sharing Can Start Small and Grow Fast

Returns can be strong even on modest investments when you have the right strategy and partnerships.

10. Don’t Let Fear Be Louder Than Possibility

If there’s even a whisper of curiosity in you, follow it—your future self may just thank you for it.

Want to learn more about real estate investing? Follow me on IG @annreedandco where I share daily musings on real estate, mindfulness, being an almost empty nester, and more.

Looking for additional support, community, and accountability to help you build your real estate portfolio? Hop on the waitlist for the Soulful Investor Society, a community membership for real estate investors and those who'd like to get in the game. Once on the waitlist, you'll be the first to know when the doors open AND you'll get lots of amazing freebies, including a FREE 1:1 coaching session with me, where we'll map out your plan from start to finish, so you can finally buy that investment property and scale your portfolio.

In this episode, your host, Ann Reed, gets vulnerable and shares her personal story about money wounds, and how they've played a role in her journey as a real estate investor. Top takeaways from this episode are:

1. Your Money Story Shapes Your Investment Path

Ann opens up about the generational money patterns she inherited—and how recognizing those patterns helped her rewrite her financial future through real estate investing.

2. Real Estate Wasn’t Just the Plan—It Was the Breakthrough

When family needs collided with money fears, Ann and her husband used home equity to build an ADU—and unknowingly launched their real estate investing journey.

3. Equity Is Energy—Use It Wisely

Ann demystifies equity, showing how it can be a powerful, tax-free way to scale your portfolio when used strategically and responsibly.

4. Get In the Game—and Stay In It

Real wealth is built over time. The key isn’t a perfect market or background—it’s consistency and commitment to staying in the game.

5. Don’t Trade Your Life for Money—Design Both

For Ann, real estate is about more than income—it’s about freedom. Freedom to choose time with family, pursue joy, and live fully.

Want to learn more about real estate investing? Follow me on IG @annreedandco where I share daily musings on real estate, mindfulness, being an almost empty nester, and more.

Looking for additional support, community, and accountability to help you build your real estate portfolio? Hop on the waitlist for the Soulful Investor Society, a community membership for real estate investors and those who'd like to get in the game. Once on the waitlist, you'll be the first to know when the doors open AND you'll get lots of amazing freebies, including a FREE 1:1 coaching session with me, where we'll map out your plan from start to finish, so you can finally buy that investment property and scale your portfolio.

Helpful books mentioned on this episode.

Becoming Supernatural by Dr. Joe Dispenza

https://drjoedispenza.com/product-details/Becoming%20Supernatural

Abundant Ever After by Cathy Heller

https://www.cathyheller.com/abundant-ever-after-book-1

The Mystic Jesus by Marianne Williamson
https://marianne.com/books/

The most successful real estate investors know what feels right and take action accordingly. In this conversation with Kimberly Gayle she shows us how to find that alignment through her work as branding specialist. It's all about knowing what's in alignment for you and showing up authentically. Here are theTop 10 Takeaways from this episode:

1. You can love the work and still feel deeply misaligned.

It’s possible to be excellent at something and still feel totally out of alignment. Don’t mistake competence for fulfillment.

2. Be your own hero. No one else is coming.

The most empowered decision you’ll ever make is choosing yourself—especially when no one else does.

3. The world doesn’t need another [insert job title]. It needs you, fully expressed.

You’re not just a title. You’re a purpose in motion. Don’t dim your impact to fit a role.

4. Misalignment shows up in the body. Pay attention.

Your body whispers before it screams. If you’re feeling off, it may be time to recalibrate.

5. We’re born whole. The journey is remembering.

You don’t need to become someone new. You need to remember who you were before the world told you who to be.

6. Living your values is the true measure of success.

Define success on your terms. Alignment is the new ambition.

7. Real change requires identity work.

Investing in real estate is just the start. The real investment is in who you become along the way.

8. Discomfort doesn’t mean you’re on the wrong path.

If it feels hard, it doesn’t mean you’re failing. It might mean you’re finally growing.

9. Community is not optional—it’s survival.

Real estate can rebuild more than wealth. It can rebuild belonging.

10. You can create what you didn’t have.

Your pain can plant seeds for someone else’s healing. You don’t need a map. Just start.

Follow me on instagram @annreedandco
or ann.reed@exprealty.com

Here's where you can find Kimberly:

Instagram: @kimberlygayleconsutling
Website: http://www.kimberlygayle.com
Brave & Bold – The Personal Branding Podcast
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/brave-bold-the-personal-branding-
podcast/id1587515399?fbclid=IwAR3Qo5R44Orrob4kPynfiDtoi5ocnYu75yEu4j5BGqMOoRWlaC
-66QwEIhA
Need help building your personal brand? Request your Free Personal Brand Strategy Call with
Kimberly Gayle
https://forms.gle/LNMjzcHtXuauGZbv7

If the idea of managing your own rental properties makes you want to run for the hills—you are not alone. In today’s episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on the world of property management with Derek from NetGain PM, who brings a refreshing, heart-centered approach to an often-overlooked part of real estate investing.

Derek shares how he built a thriving company managing over 650 units in Utah by focusing on what most people avoid: the human side of housing. We talk about everything from protecting landlords legally and financially to supporting tenants through mental health challenges and transitional housing.

Whether you’re an investor who loves real estate but hates the idea of clogged toilets and rent collection, or someone exploring impact-driven rentals like sober living or co-living homes—this episode is packed with wisdom, systems, and compassion.

We even get into the nitty gritty of security deposit alternatives, red flags to look for in owners and tenants, and the real cost (and payoff) of staying in the game. Here are the top takeaways from today's show:

1. Know Your Strengths—Outsource the Rest

Property management isn’t for everyone, and that’s okay. The empowered investor understands that hiring a great team, including a property manager, is a smart way to stay in their zone of genius.

That’s how empowered investors scale with sanity.

2. Property Managers Save More Than Time

A property manager is not just an expense—they’re a risk mitigator, legal translator, and peace-of-mind provider. A good one can protect your peace, preserve your cash flow, and keep your rentals running like clockwork. The ROI comes not only in money saved, but in emotional bandwidth protected.

3. Property Management with Compassion

Conscious landlords are rethinking the tenant experience. This level of compassion is what sets modern property management apart—investors can make a difference AND profit when they prioritize dignity and support in housing.

4. Find a Property Manager Who Matches Your Mission

Don’t just hire any property manager—hire one aligned with your mission. Whether you're building wealth, legacy, or community housing, values alignment with your PM partner is everything.

Want to learn more about real estate investing? Follow me on IG @annreedandco where I share daily musings on real estate, mindfulness, being an almost empty nester, and more.

Looking for additional support, community, and accountability to help you build your real estate portfolio? Hop on the waitlist for the Soulful Investor Society, a community membership for real estate investors and those who'd like to get in the game. Once on the waitlist, you'll be the first to know when the doors open AND you'll get lots of amazing freebies, including a FREE 1:1 coaching session with me, where we'll map out your plan from start to finish, so you can finally buy that investment property and scale your portfolio.

Be sure to check out the links below for more information from out guest, Derek Morton:

tiktok.com/@netgainpm

https://www.instagram.com/netgainpm/

https://netgainpm.com/

Obligo: https://www.obligo.com/

BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com/