Real estate investing can be a game-changer—but only if you know how to avoid the common mistakes that trap beginners. In this video, I break down the three biggest reasons why I failed when I first started, and how you can steer clear of these pitfalls to fast-track your success.

Key Takeaways:

1. Why on-market deals make it harder to profit and how to find better opportunities
2. How learning from experienced investors can save you time and money
3. Why tackling oversized projects can be risky—and a smarter approach to completing deals efficiently

Mistake #1: Relying on On-Market Deals

When I first started investing in real estate, I made several mistakes—mistakes that beginners often make. Learning from failure is part of the journey, but avoiding these pitfalls altogether can save you time, money, and frustration.

One of the biggest reasons I struggled was because I focused solely on on-market deals—listings posted on MLS, Realtor.com, Zillow, Trulia, Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and even auction sites. The problem? In these markets, I was competing with other buyers, which drove prices up, making it nearly impossible to find profitable deals.

What I later realized is that 90% of real estate investing success comes from finding off-market deals—getting to sellers before their property is publicly listed. If you're struggling to find good deals, chances are you're focusing too much on on-market listings. Shifting your focus to off-market opportunities can be a game-changer.

Mistake #2: Trying to Do Everything Alone

At first, I thought I could figure out real estate investing on my own—I relied on my own knowledge, skill set, and experience. I quickly learned that this approach slowed me down.

The smartest way to succeed in real estate—or in any field—is to follow the footsteps of someone who’s already achieved success. Learning from an experienced mentor shortens your learning curve and significantly increases your chances of success.

If you're struggling or failing to see the results you want, it may be because you're trying to do it all yourself. Following in a mentor’s footsteps or learning from someone who's already done it will increase your chances of success.

Mistake #3: Taking On Projects That Were Too Big

Many beginners make the mistake of tackling oversized projects. Thanks to TV shows, flipping large properties looks glamorous—but the reality is far more challenging. Big projects often come with miscalculations—unexpected costs, longer timelines, contractor delays, and poor project management. These issues can quickly eat away at profits.

At Freedom Mentor, we teach our students to get in and out of projects as quickly as possible. The key is to complete deals efficiently so you can and move on to the next one—without getting trapped in project management nightmares that drain your time and eat up your profits.

Every Successful Creative Real Estate Investor Has a Mentor

These three mistakes were significant roadblocks in my journey as a real estate investor. However, overcoming them allowed me to find success—and they can help you do the same. If you're struggling in your own real estate investing business, maybe it's time to consider mentorship. A coaching relationship with Freedom Mentor can help you gain clarity, avoid mistakes, and accelerate your success.

Apply to our Apprentice Program, where our team will mentor, coach, and guide you to financial success: Freedom Mentor Apprentice Program.

If you have questions for us, text FREEDOM to 305-315-8030 or post a comment below.