Today, we had the pleasure of talking with Elizabeth Never Ready, an investor and agent from Houston. Elizabeth’s inspiring journey from social worker to successful investor offers valuable insights into the power of reinvention.
Starting in Social Work
Elizabeth began her career as a social worker, driven by a strong desire to help others. For 12 years, she served in various roles, including school counselor and HIV education prevention educator. Although she loved her work, the long hours and low pay motivated her to explore new opportunities.
Transitioning to Real Estate
Encouraged by her husband Nelson, a successful mortgage broker, Elizabeth decided to transition into real estate. Despite her initial concerns about not having a sales background, her skills as a social worker—such as listening and understanding people’s needs—proved invaluable in her new role.
Embracing Real Estate Investing
Elizabeth’s real estate journey quickly evolved from working as an agent to diving into investments. With Nelson’s guidance, they began investing in properties in Chicago in 2004, just a year after Elizabeth obtained her real estate license. This venture proved successful until the crash of 2008, which forced many investors, including Elizabeth and Nelson, to rethink their strategies.
Reinventing in a New Market
Facing the challenges of the Great Recession, Elizabeth and Nelson decided to shift their focus to the Houston market. Here, they started anew, navigating the local real estate landscape, and building a trusted network of contractors and real estate professionals.
Growing a Full-Service Real Estate Investment Company
Over the years, Elizabeth and Nelson have expanded their business into a one-stop-shop for real estate investing. Their services include wholesaling, fix-and-flip projects, and providing mentorship for new investors. They now manage a team of 35 full-time professionals, ensuring high-quality work and maximizing profitability.
Impact of Hurricane Harvey
Hurricane Harvey presented both challenges and opportunities for Elizabeth and Nelson. The hurricane’s aftermath led to an increase in property rehabs and a spike in the rental market. Despite initial setbacks, their team adapted by taking on larger projects, including high-end homes affected by the flooding.
Elizabeth’s dedication to helping others extends beyond her real estate projects. She co-hosts a Spanish-language radio show on Univision, where she shares insights on real estate investing. Her goal is to mentor aspiring investors and help them navigate the complexities of the market.
Conclusion
Elizabeth Never Ready’s remarkable journey from social worker to successful real estate investor exemplifies the power of reinvention and resilience. Her story is a testament to the value of transferable skills and the importance of adaptability in the face of adversity. Through her and her husband’s strategic shifts, they have not only built a thriving business but also created a platform to mentor and inspire others.
Elizabeth’s commitment to helping others, whether through her radio show or her mentorship programs, underscores her enduring dedication to making a positive impact. Her journey serves as an inspiring reminder that with determination and the right support, transformation and success are within reach for anyone willing to pursue their passions and embrace new opportunities.
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