If you’ve followed me for more than five minutes, you know I believe real estate is one of the smartest ways to invest and build long-term wealth.

But today, I want to zoom out and think about how investing beyond real estate fits into your bigger financial picture.

Because before we talk about what you invest in, we need to talk about when you start.

Here’s a scenario that stopped me in my tracks the first time I saw it:

If someone starts investing $500 a month at age 15 and stops at 30, they’ll retire with about $7.6 million.
If someone else waits until 30 and invests the same $500 every month until 65, they’ll end up with only $1.1 million.

Same monthly contribution. Very different result.

The reason? Time beats money.
That’s the quiet magic of compound interest — it rewards early action, not just effort.

This applies whether you’re buying your first index fund or your first home.

In fact, I see this same principle play out with first-time buyers all the time. People who get into real estate early — even with limited resources — tend to build equity faster, create financial options sooner, and end up miles ahead of those who “wait until they’re ready.”

It’s not about being perfect. It’s about beginning and shows us why starting early is the most powerful investing move you can make.

So yes, I believe in real estate. But more than anything, I believe in starting.

Even if it’s not a house yet. Even if it’s $100 a month into a Roth IRA. Even if it’s just getting clarity on your financial goals.

If you’re in your 20s and feeling like you’ve already missed the boat — you haven’t. You’re right on time.
And if real estate is something you want to explore, I’m here to help you map out a path that makes sense for you.

Let’s build something that grows from your first investment decision—whether that’s stocks, a Roth IRA, or your first home.