How to Find a Mentor in Real Estate Investing

In real estate investing, a mentor can be the difference between spinning your wheels and closing profitable deals with confidence. While books, podcasts, and YouTube channels offer plenty of free education, nothing accelerates your learning like guidance from someone who’s already walked the path.

But how do you find a real estate mentor, and more importantly, how do you build a real relationship that leads to long-term growth?

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you find and connect with the right mentor.

1. Know What You’re Looking For

   Before you start searching, get clear on your goals. Do you want to:

   
   

   • Learn how to flip houses?

   • Buy your first rental property?

   • Break into commercial real estate?

   • Start investing out-of-state?

   
   

   Your ideal mentor should have experience in the specific niche you're interested in. Don’t look for a generalist, look for someone who’s already where you want to be.

   
   

2. Start With Your Existing Network

   You may already know someone with investing experience—even if they don’t advertise it. Start by:

   
   

   • Asking friends, coworkers, or family if they know real estate investors.

   • Attending local meetups or REIA (Real Estate Investors Association) meetings.

   • Posting on LinkedIn or Facebook that you’re looking to connect with investors.

   • Most people underestimate how powerful a single introduction can be.

   
   

3. Go Where Investors Hang Out

   To find a mentor, you have to get in the room, virtually or in person. Try:

   
   

   • Real estate investing meetups (check Meetup.com)

   • REI Facebook Groups

   • BiggerPockets forums

   • Local REIA meetings

   • Real estate conferences

   
   

   The more active and curious you are in these communities, the more likely you are to attract someone who wants to help.

   
   

4. Provide Value First

   Great mentors are busy. If you want their time and attention, lead with value. Here are some ways to do that:

   
   

   • Offer to help with research, errands, or social media.

   • Bring them leads or deals.

   • Volunteer at events they’re hosting.

   • Simply ask thoughtful questions and be coachable.

     
     

   The relationship should be a two-way street—even if they’re giving more at first, you should be looking for ways to give back.

   
   

5. Be Specific in Your Ask

   Avoid vague requests like “Will you mentor me?” Instead, ask for something small and clear:

   
   

   • “Would you be open to a 15-minute call where I can ask you a few questions about your first rental?”

   • “I really admire your journey in multifamily investing. Would it be okay if I bought you coffee sometime to learn how you got started?”

   
   

   Small wins build trust and can naturally grow into a longer-term mentorship.

   
   

6. Show Up Consistently

   If someone gives you advice, act on it. Then, follow up to share the results. This shows that you’re serious and worth investing in. A mentor wants to know their time is making an impact.

   
   

   Consistency builds credibility. If you keep showing up, asking good questions, and executing on feedback, you’ll naturally attract the right people to guide you.

   
   

7. Consider Paid Mentorship (Carefully)

   While there are some excellent coaching programs out there, many are overpriced and under-deliver. If you choose to pay for mentorship:

   
   

   • Vet the mentor’s track record.

   • Ask to speak to past students.

   • Make sure the program offers real, practical support, not just theory.

   
   

   You don’t have to pay to get a mentor, but in some cases, a paid mentorship can accelerate your journey, if it’s the right fit.

Final Thoughts

Finding a mentor in real estate investing is less about luck and more about intention. Be curious, be coachable, and be consistent. The right mentor won’t just help you avoid mistakes, they’ll help you think bigger, act faster, and build confidence in your investing journey.

You don’t need to go it alone. Start connecting today, and the right mentor might be just one conversation away.