Milestones are a funny thing. Admittedly, each time I achieve a milestone, I say, “What’s next?” Even taking the time to write and reflect on my business anniversary is something I’ve been procrastinating on and rather focused instead on what I’d like to accomplish.
Six years ago, I chose to take the leap into entrepreneurship and become a full-time real estate developer. Initially, having a pipeline of productive projects socially, environmentally, and financially was the whole goal. I worried there wasn’t enough to be done or that I would be able to accomplish. Building trust among stakeholders and partners was a top priority and only started to occur once I’d demonstrated the ability to deliver a stellar project. In reflecting on it, I was young, hungry, and scrappy.
The latter two I still deliver on, but I’ve grown up professionally. I have been a part of $25 million of real estate development in the Great Lakes Bay region. I’ve developed 67 residential units (aka awesome homes) for people. We have over 43 commercial spaces in Downtown Bay City. I’ve consulted for incredible developments both locally and around the state, plus had the opportunity to teach workshops in boot camps across the country. Diving into being a commercial real estate agent has offered another way for me to support small businesses, entrepreneurs, and local property investment.
This journey so far has taught me how much local ownership is a critical part of strong communities. I get to advocate for and support that through supporting real estate clients, teaching and speaking, and through my investments. Supporting others in their investments to help them do well for themselves by making a positive community impact. The big picture mindset of my sociology background promotes how our community is worth investing in for its sustainability.
So now for my favorite part… What’s next?
It is time for growth.
Keep serving clients in real estate. Helping others invest wisely into the places and spaces to build their businesses is a top priority.
Housing. Housing choice is a critical piece of economic development—housing density ties into having people to support our small businesses. Homeownership is a primary investment that helps citizens either gain or lose generational wealth. Assisting communities across the state in building the housing their community needs is a top priority.
Development projects that are irresistible additions to the community with partners who are driven to make this community an incredible place full of character.
The biggest takeaway when I reflect on this time is how grateful I am to do the work that drives me. People said our community is too small. That progress like what I wanted to achieve could not happen here. In those moments, I kept my head down and did the work. I am grateful for the grueling grind. Now it’s time to advance to the next level of the game.