Introduction:
In this episode of the SRI podcast, we delve into the incredible journey of Jonna Weber, as she transitioned from being a school teacher to becoming a successful real estate investor. Jonna’s story is one of resilience, determination, and a passion for making a positive impact in her community. Join us as we explore the challenges she faced, the pivotal moments that shaped her career, and the valuable lessons she learned along the way.
Finding the Right Path:
Jonna began her career as a school teacher, but soon realized that it wasn’t the best fit for her long-term goals. The constraints of having a boss and board of directors monitoring her every move left her feeling unfulfilled and limited in pursuing other interests, such as real estate deals and attending her children’s band concerts. It was during this time that she realized teaching was not her ultimate calling.
Navigating Financial Difficulties:
The recession hit Jonna and her husband hard, resulting in financial difficulties. They found themselves struggling to manage a rental property that was negatively cash-flowing at $800 per month. Faced with the possibility of losing a substantial part of their income, Jonna came up with a bold plan. She decided to sell the property at the low of the market in 2011 and use the equity to invest in something that would generate positive cash flow. This decision proved to be a turning point in her financial journey.
Discovering a New Path:
Jonna’s passion for teaching didn’t fade away entirely. In fact, she sees her real estate career as a way to give back to the community. Through her work, she celebrates any meaningful difference made in someone’s retirement through investment. She also found inspiration in the mix of investors she encountered, from those who did a small number of deals to those who did a large number. Attending high-level business conferences outside of her usual environment further solidified her belief that success was within reach.
Building a Community and Thriving:
Jonna’s involvement with the real estate community grew over time. Starting with small investor meetups in Boise, she eventually launched a Facebook page that connected like-minded individuals. As the community expanded, Jonna recognized the need to cultivate it as a network throughout the Treasure Valley. This led to the creation of Boise Rean, a platform where experienced investors collaborate with new investors, new agents, and those seeking to learn the market. The willingness to mentor, help, and uplift others within the community became a defining characteristic of the group.
Lessons Learned and Looking Ahead:
Jonna’s journey in real estate has taught her the importance of developing true relationships, both within the industry and the local community. Building trust and providing exceptional customer service are paramount in her approach. She also acknowledges that mistakes happen in real estate, but time and reflection allow for growth and the possibility to rectify any missteps. Overall, Jonna’s experiences in the industry have reinforced her love and understanding of the real estate business.
Conclusion:
Jonna Weber’s story is a testament to the power of resilience, perseverance, and the pursuit of one’s passion. From her humble beginnings as a school teacher, she transformed herself into a thriving real estate investor. Through her community-building efforts and dedication to helping others succeed, Jonna continues to make a meaningful impact in the Treasure Valley. Her journey inspires us to embrace change, seize opportunities, and never stop learning in our pursuit of success.
Important Links:
Website: https://jonnaweber.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jonnaweber_realestate/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonnaweber/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jonnaweberrealestate
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonna_weber