On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan welcomes Joel Miller, a longtime investor who’s built his real estate business steadily since the 1970s. With over 100 house flips, dozens of rentals, and a successful run as a hard money lender, Joel brings a grounded, experience-rich view of what it takes to build real estate wealth.
Building Rentals While Living Your Life
Joel didn’t start in real estate. He started as a DJ. But while growing his mobile entertainment business, he began acquiring rental properties on the side. His message: You don’t have to give up your career to be a real estate investor. Instead, use real estate to support what you love while preparing for financial freedom.
Laying the Groundwork for Success
Over nearly five decades, Joel has learned that wealth-building in real estate starts with the basics:
- Strong tenant screening practices
- A focus on small multifamily properties with upside
- Networking with other local investors
- Ongoing education and involvement in landlord associations
- Knowing how to assess, underwrite, and manage properties properly
Lending With a Personal Touch
Joel now spends much of his time as a hard money lender. He only lends locally and only on deals he understands. He visits every property, talks through the plan with borrowers, and only funds deals that pass his personal underwriting. This relationship-based approach ensures that both lender and borrower succeed.
Advice for New Investors
For those just starting, Joel offers a few key takeaways:
- Learn before you leap. Take classes, read, and build relationships.
- Start small and local to reduce risk and build confidence.
- Document your finances so you’re ready when a good deal appears.
- Focus on tenant quality, not just filling vacancies quickly.
- Don’t let market conditions stop you. A good deal is always a good deal.
Joel’s book, “Build Real Estate Wealth,” is packed with over 150 checklists and practical resources to help investors at every stage. It’s not just a read. It’s a reference guide built on years of experience and designed to help others avoid mistakes and scale the right way.
If you want to learn more about Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing Podcast, check out https://zenandtheartofrealestateinvesting.com/podcast/264/.