Lamontas Gardner: From College Football to Real Estate Success
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On this episode of the BiggerPockets podcast, we meet Lamontas Gardner, a former college football player who dove headfirst into real estate investing after a career in coaching was cut short due to the tumultuous events of 2020. Gardner's journey began with the acquisition of his first rental property in Mobile, Alabama in 2021, which laid the foundation for a series of successful deals, including flipping houses and expanding his rental portfolio. Through sheer determination and resourcefulness, Gardner managed to secure financing for his initial deal by partnering with his college football coach, demonstrating a keen eye for opportunity and a willingness to take risks.
Following his initial success, Gardner continued to push the boundaries of his real estate endeavors, delving into the world of house flipping with a lucrative deal in January 2022. By identifying undervalued properties and implementing strategic renovations, Gardner was able to turn a significant profit, showcasing his knack for spotting hidden gems in the market. As he honed his skills and expanded his knowledge, Gardner delved into marketing and direct mail strategies to generate leads independently, setting himself apart from competitors and accelerating the growth of his business.
Central to Gardner's success was his ability to secure financing through a local hard money lender, who provided 100% of the funds needed for both purchase and renovation costs. By maintaining a conservative approach and ensuring his all-in costs stayed below 70% of the after-repair value, Gardner was able to leverage this financial support to take on deals without the need for a substantial down payment. Through perseverance, strategic partnerships, and a willingness to adapt and learn, Gardner exemplifies the spirit of entrepreneurship and the limitless possibilities within the realm of real estate investing.
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Image copyright Youtube
Image copyright Youtube
Image copyright Youtube
Watch I Bought My First Rental in 2021, Now I Have 19 & Replaced My W2! on Youtube
Viewer Reactions for I Bought My First Rental in 2021, Now I Have 19 & Replaced My W2!
Partnership success in single-family rentals
Suggestion to include closing costs in deal math discussions
Concern about buying houses with a tight margin
Investing during a recession
Interest in partnering for deals
Impact of one deal changing everything
Replacement of 9-5 job for freedom
Request for more Henry and less Dave from BP execs
Process differences in areas like Atlanta in 2025
Warning about market instability and selling properties
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