Mendell Gosnell, CPMPrincipal Broker, Centurion Real Estate Services · Helping Real Estate Investors Build Generational Wealth Through Smart Property Management | Branch Offices in Salem, Corvallis, Eugene and Redmond.

Where Should You Start Investing in Real Estate? Your Own Backyard

3 Sept 2026 · 0 min

Watch on YouTube

0:28

In this segment of his YouTube video, real‑estate investor Mendell Gosnell, CPM, emphasizes three core principles for new investors. First, he stresses that leverage—using other people’s money, expertise, and systems—is fundamental to real‑estate success, especially when managing properties from a distance. Second, he advises beginners to begin investing in their own “backyard,” arguing that local markets provide the best opportunity to find deals, understand the environment, and build confidence. Finally, he underscores the importance of patience and time investment, noting that deals exist everywhere for those willing to put in the effort. The overall message is a practical, encouraging roadmap for novice investors to start small, use leverage wisely, and scale remotely.

It really also forced us to use leverage. And again, that's a big part of real estate is leverage. You're using other people's money, other people's knowledge. And in this case, we're leveraging people and systems to manage it from a distance. Usually when people ask me, I say, hey, just start in your backyard. That's going to give you the best ability. I think there's usually deals just everywhere you look. You just have to put the time in and be patient.