"I never thought that. And this Lifestyle has an awesome community and just an awesome roadmap. So yeah, with that proper guidance, yeah, I think it's possible."
From reading Rich Dad Poor Dad before occupational therapy school to capturing over $215,000 in real estate equity while working part-time - Vivian Ezenwa's transformation proves that healthcare professionals can master real estate investing with the right strategy and mentorship.
In this Tell Del Tuesday episode, Del Walmsley interviews Vivian about her remarkable journey from part-time occupational therapist to savvy real estate investor. Starting with a $121,000 new construction property in Livingston, Texas, she quickly progressed to tackling a complete gut rehab that her mother literally ran away from after seeing holes in the roof.
The real power in Vivian's story lies in her strategic use of 1031 exchanges and hard money lending. When she sold a townhouse for over $100,000 in capital gains, she used a 1031 exchange to defer all taxes and rolled the proceeds into a duplex. Her progression from small rehabs to a $70,000 gut renovation showcases how proper mentorship accelerates success, especially her relationship with all three Houston mentors.
How Vivian used a 1031 exchange to defer over $100,000 in capital gains taxes completely
The exact numbers behind her gut rehab: $99,000 purchase + $70,000 renovation = $235,000 appraisal value
Why she transitioned to DSCR loans to qualify for multiple properties as a part-time worker
01:21 How Rich Dad Poor Dad Planted the Real Estate Seed Before OT School
02:55 COVID Travel Therapy Layoffs: The Wake-Up Call That Changed Everything
08:59 First Property: $121,000 New Construction in Livingston, Texas
13:02 Four-Month Timeline: From Joining Lifestyles to First Purchase
15:28 The $100,000 Tax-Free 1031 Exchange Strategy
18:13 Duplex Purchase: Buying from Another Lifestyles Member
22:51 First Rehab Success: $30,000 Investment for $50,000 Equity Capture
29:20 The Abandoned House with Holes in the Roof Success Story
31:01 Final Appraisal: $235,000 Value on $170,000 Total Investment
Whether you're a healthcare professional looking to build wealth beyond your day job or an investor wanting to see the power of strategic rehabs and tax deferrals, Vivian's documented success provides a clear roadmap for real estate wealth building.
Ready to build equity like Vivian?
Bookmarked by Reese's Book Club
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Dateline NBC
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