Help The People Who Helped You

The holidays are here. It is the time of year when things slow down a bit and we reflect on where we have been and where we are going. We take note of what we are thankful for and share in the joy of giving. It is a good time to realize that we have not been alone on our real estate investing journey. To realize that many have helped us and to contemplate how we can help them. In that spirit, I have jotted down some ways that you can help the people who helped you.

Give A Little

If you can afford it, a little bit extra to your employees or contractors goes a long way. Cash is great. But gift cards to Lowe’s or Amazon are safe and secure and are a nice way to say thanks to those who have helped you.

Break Bread

Take folks out to lunch or have a nice catered meal. Everyone has to eat. Nothing spreads good cheer faster than good food.

Be On Time

Do your best to get everyone paid in full and on time. Sure, everyone thinks you are a great person, but they need to eat as well. They need what they are owed as soon as they are owed it. Be on time with your paperwork as well. For example, some may be looking forward to a large tax refund. Help them receive it by providing them with the required Form 1099 as soon as you can.

Teach

I have found that many who help me are ignorant when it comes to money and money matters. As investors, many of us have learned a great deal about the workings of money and we should share that knowledge to help others. It is surprising to me the amount of money ignorance out there, especially when I talk to those who are new to business or new to the country.

Teach these folks how banking works. Show them that they can cash a check from you at your bank without paying the exorbitant fees of a check cashing store. Teach them how to save on their income taxes with legitimate business deductions such as milage and work expenses. Many simply have no idea these things can be dome. But once they learn it from you, they will teach others and that will ultimately benefit us all.

Be thankful for what real estate investing has provided you and enjoy the benefits. But also take some time to spread the joy this season. Enjoy the holidays.

Kevin Perk is the founder and publisher of Smarterlandlording.com. He is the author of Advice From Experience To New Real Estate Investors. Subscribe to Smarterlandlording here. Contact Kevin here.