The biggest financial advantage in real estate isn’t a secret formula or the perfect deal—it’s the people you meet. Successful investors will almost always admit that relationships, not market timing or luck, are what made them the most money.

If you’re not intentionally building and nurturing your network, you’re leaving opportunity on the table.

I’m not naturally a networker—I’d much rather be at home reading than mingling at an event. If I’m at a party, chances are I’m hiding with the host’s pet rather than working the room. But even as an introvert, I can’t ignore what my network has brought me over the years. The deals I’ve avoided, the opportunities I’ve landed, and yes—millions earned—have all come through people.

Early in my career, seasoned investors in local associations helped validate deals—or warned me off of bad ones. Later, as I began wholesaling, I found that I rarely needed to advertise my deals at all. Because I invested in genuine relationships, I knew what certain buyers wanted, and could contact them directly with properties that fit their exact criteria.

Most of the private capital I’ve raised didn’t come from asking publicly—it came from quieter conversations with people who had underperforming funds and wanted better returns. Those deals started with curiosity and connection.

And this isn’t unique to me. I’ve seen other investors close five-figure deals simply because they chatted with the right person at the right event.

The point?

Put yourself where other real estate investors are—local associations, summits, conferences, meetups, anywhere connections happen. Show up consistently. Ask questions. Listen. Be curious, even if you’re introverted or uncertain.

Because when you do, your deals get smarter, bigger, and more profitable—all based on who you know.

Thank you Pete Fortunato for this past weekends event!