How to Start Investing in Real Estate: Advice from Mortgage Pro Haley Gant

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Welcome back to another informative episode of the IRA Cafe podcast! This time, host Kyle Moody, Business Development Manager at American IRA, sits down with Haley Gant, real estate investor and founder of Elite Mountain Mortgage.

Newly based in Asheville, North Carolina, but seasoned in the real estate industry, Haley draws from a lifetime steeped in real estate investing from growing up in a family of hard money lenders in Texas to now building her own company in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Together, Kyle and Haley explore Haley's journey from being immersed in property visits as a child, to launching her career in mortgage lending, and finding her niche in short-term rental investments. The discussion touches on key moments that shaped Haley’s business path, including navigating moving across the country, adapting to the challenges and rewards of rural real estate, and building credibility in a new market.

Haley also shares her experience as both an investor and a broker, and how her personal approach sets her apart from large mortgage firms. Whether you’re interested in leveraging self-directed IRAs for real estate, understanding the nuances of rural investment properties, or looking for practical advice to break into real estate investing, this episode offers valuable insights from someone who’s walked the walk.

Key takeaways:

1. Building Your Track Record: Haley’s background in real estate taught her the value of diversification and learning by doing. She emphasizes starting with what you know, managing risk, and making sure your investments don’t stretch you too thin.
2. Real Estate and Lifestyle: Personal interests and lifestyle goals can shape viable investment opportunities; for Haley, proximity to recreational activities like mountain biking played a key role in her choice of markets.
3. Adapting in Uncertain Environments: The real estate landscape, especially in rural or rapidly changing markets like Western North Carolina, demands adaptability, a strong network, and reliable local resources for property management and maintenance.
4. Personalized Lending Advantage: As an independent mortgage broker, Haley sets herself apart through dedicated service, transparency, and relationship-building providing tailored loan options and advocating for client education throughout the mortgage process.
5. Advice for New Investors: For those just starting out, Haley highlights the importance of building a genuine local network, taking a conservative approach to choice and financing, and being patient, doing your due diligence and waiting for the right deal instead of jumping at every opportunity.

Whether you’re new to self-directed IRA investing, exploring non-recourse loans, or simply looking for inspiration to take your own leap into real estate, this episode delivers actionable advice, honest reflections, and an encouraging reminder that with the right connections and persistence, you can chart your own successful course in real estate.

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