In 1980, President Jimmy Carter designated March 2-8 as National Women’s History Week (which later became Women’s History Month), with the message, “From the first settlers who came to our shores, from the first American Indian families who befriended them, men and women have worked together to build this nation. Too often the women were unsung and sometimes their contributions went unnoticed. But the achievements, leadership, courage, strength and love of the women who built America was as vital as that of the men whose names we know so well.”
Sometimes we need to stop and acknowledge the many heroines who strived so hard for the freedoms we embrace today. But, there’s another side to this story. We need to be grateful for what we have, and what we know, and go after the things we’re capable of achieving. As a young millennial mother immersed in the world of real estate investing, Elizabeth Klingseisen is a testament to what fortitude and a positive attitude can do for you – no matter the state of the economy! – Editor, Cherrell Tarantino
Q: What are your thoughts on Women’s History Month?
E: I wasn’t there when it was rough for women, but I appreciate what they went through. Women before us made it possible for us to do what we do, though I think sometimes we are ungrateful for what we have now. Instead of thinking I ‘deserve’ things, I like to push forward and take real advantage of the things I can personally contribute. I believe that you are what you make in your life.
Q: Do you think you have to struggle more, as a woman?
E: I’ve never looked at ‘being a woman’ as a negative thing. My mother, Laura Alamery, has been a good role model for me. She rode the ups and downs her whole life and never gave up, and she runs her business in a fair and caring way. It really makes her stand out in such a male-dominated profession, but everyone can achieve these things if they put the effort and passion into it.
Q: How does being a millennial make things different?
E: We have more at our disposal than previous generations, we have a lot going for us. It’s not as hard as it was with our parents. We have way more options than there were even 20-30 years ago; financial aid, medical, jobs – so many different ways to become well off.
As a millennial, I don’t feel oppressed; I feel like I can go as high as I want. I don’t feel like any of my dreams are being squashed.
Q: What role has the Internet played for women in business today?
E: The impact of Covid-19 pandemic birthed a shift into remote working making us able to bring something virtual to business and still run our everyday lives. Flexible scheduling and freelancing are the touchstone of today’s workforce. The Internet allows us to sell services and products to people across the nation, and the globe. From logos and web design to publishing our own books – anything you can dream up is doable on the web.And the Internet has given us the freedom to travel, with a laptop in tow, and we can even outsource just about anything to virtual assistants. It’s easy to find others nearby, who you meet and get to know, who are willing to do what they do for you – from their own homes.
Now, let’s take a look at real estate investing as a way to create real wealth for women today…
Q: Is it really true that anyone can be a real estate investor?
E: Yes, absolutely. We’ve actually had students as young as 18 years old, and as elderly as 88! Honestly, you can be homeless, with $5.00 to your name. I’ve personally seen people with all kinds of challenges make it in this business. The only way something is going to affect your performance is if you let it.
Some people complain that there is SO MUCH INFORMATION to learn, but there really isn’t. Once you know it, you always know it – just like riding a bike. Sure, each house is a different scenario, and little things will change, but it’s the same principles.
Q: In your opinion, what makes women investors different?
E: We aren’t all about the money; we’re not just after your house to make big bucks. Women chip in, are more compassionate, and tend to add more to the transaction – like offering to help a seller move. We have a different approach; women are more personal where many men are likely to be more detached and keep everything strictly business. I think this gives us the upper hand.
Q: What’s should you keep in mind as you start an investing career?
E: I never knew what I wanted to be; I bounced around a lot. When I decided to become a real estate investor, the first thing I learned was how critical it is to DO THE WORK. Being incredibly consistent, dedicating a portion of every day to your real estate, treat this as your job not your hobby! Resources and training and are absolutely necessary – it’s not a profession you can just learn ‘on the job.’
That is why we give you all the tools and coach you, but it’s up to you to go through the steps and put in the time. Success can come very quickly or it can take longer, depending on what you’re willing to put into it. Remember, the most important thing in your business is YOU, and the buck stops there.
Q: You talk about mindset, how does that help you?
E: What may seem cliché is very true in real estate investing: “You can do anything, you just have to put your mind to it.” I myself am living proof, and it’s made me a totally different person. As a young mother who’s already seen the ‘other side’ of surviving, it gives me a place to come from in helping others. I used to be outgoing, then I got shy and even got anxiety.
“Real estate investing put me into the shoes I wanted to fill, and it made me more confident. There’s no room for holding back, this career keeps your brain active, and it’s always a challenge.”
I do a lot of mindset work! Every morning I do a routine that’s crucial to my success for the day! Women should always make time for themselves! You have to find what makes you happy inside. Some people want the ‘security’ of a 9-5 position, but they hate their jobs. This career allows me to work purposefully and raise my son to be proud of his mother, the way I am of mine.
Q: And the best thing about this real investing business?
E: We can go where we want, do what we want, when we want to. I’m proud of how hard we work and where we are, and how it feels to deserve success. And, I’m proud of being a good role model for my son.