We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Daniel Tanasa. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Daniel below.
Daniel, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today So let’s jump to your mission – what’s the backstory behind how you developed the mission that drives your brand?
My mission is empowering individuals to achieve financial independence by leveraging the potential of real estate investment.
As a Romanian immigrant, I arrived in the United States at the end of 2018 as a 22-year-old with no money, but a strong determination to succeed. I had grand aspirations and aimed to turn the American dream into reality. Initially employed in the Oil and Gas industry, I later ventured into trucking business, driving a Semi-Truck. However, I always recognized that true wealth lies in owning properties. So, I pursued that path.
Presently, I am the proud owner of 8 investment properties here in Houston, which brings me 8 steps closer to my goal of attaining financial freedom. The speed at which I have achieved this is beyond what I could have ever imagined, thanks to the power of compounding and leveraging real estate.
This is precisely why I am fully committed to supporting my clients in their quest for financial independence through property ownership.
I firmly believe that it’s possible to reach your goals in a shorter timeframe than your mind might initially perceive. You don’t need to come from a privileged background to invest in real estate. It is indeed possible; it simply requires diligent and consistent work.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
In January 2020, I made my initial investment in real estate using the savings I had accumulated from my job. It was a fixer-upper single-family home located in a desirable Houston suburb. I owe a great deal of gratitude to Jodi Gauthier, who was my agent at the time and is now my broker, for her guidance in my first 2-3 property decisions. Back then, I had limited knowledge about the Houston market, and having a reliable realtor like Jodi made a significant impact on my investing journey. Without her valuable advice, I could have potentially ended up in a bad deal, risking the loss of all my money and potentially giving up on real estate altogether.
The initial deal wasn’t solely about making money; it was primarily focused on minimizing losses, learning from the experience, and gaining the confidence that real estate investing is indeed feasible. Fortunately, my first deal turned out to be a success, and I became hooked. I was eager to acquire more properties.
However, after putting down a substantial amount of money for each property, I realized that it would take a significant amount of time to save up for the next one. Consequently, I started exploring creative ways to acquire properties, which ultimately led me to more sophisticated deals. One strategy that played a key role in my rapid progress was the BRRRR method, which stands for Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, and Repeat.
Through this journey, I discovered that there is no better teacher than hands-on experience. I gained a strong understanding of the transaction process, developed a keen eye for crucial factors to consider, and learned how to mitigate risks effectively. This prompted me to make the decision to transition to full-time real estate involvement, with a focus on helping others build their wealth and achieve financial freedom. Obtaining my real estate license allowed me to guide my clients on leveraging and scaling their portfolios in the most efficient manner.
Today, my clientele primarily consists of investors, and it brings immense satisfaction to witness their joy and success as we close their first deals. Our company specializes in assisting both new and seasoned investors with various aspects such as buying, selling, rehabbing, and renting properties.
Early on, I recognized that true happiness and peace in life come from not having to worry about a paycheck every month or the fear that a job loss could jeopardize one’s ability to provide for oneself and their family. This is why I am deeply passionate about the power of passive income. I firmly believe that everyone should consider investing in rental properties as it is a way to secure a better future for yourself and your loved ones.
Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?
In 2020, I was employed as a Field Engineer for an Oil and Gas Company while simultaneously embarking on my real estate journey. However, as the world experienced the unprecedented impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, everything underwent significant changes.
The virus led to widespread cancellations and delays in drilling operations, which profoundly affected my work. During this time, I found myself confined to my home for four months, occasionally going into the field for three weeks before returning home for another four months. It’s worth noting that my pay was solely based on the time spent in the field, rendering it an unsustainable arrangement.
In the midst of these challenging circumstances, I perceived an opportunity in the transportation industry. Many drivers, concerned about their compromised health or wary of the new virus, ceased their driving activities at a time when there was a substantial demand for transportation services. I recognized this as a way to give back to the country that welcomed me. Consequently, I started a small trucking business, purchased a Semi-Truck, and began operating as a driver.
Over the course of a year and a half, I expanded the business to encompass a small fleet of three trucks, utilizing the remaining profits to acquire rental properties in Houston. However, I realized that despite the success of my trucking venture, my true passion remained in the realm of real estate. I understood that real estate was where I truly belonged.
By this point, I had developed a pretty solid track record in real estate investments, which prompted friends to seek my advice on commencing and growing their own investment journeys. Thus, I made another pivotal decision and obtained my real estate license, enabling me to assist others in launching their investing careers. And it was the best decision I could have made.
What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?
I firmly believe that actions speak louder than words or theoretical knowledge gained from books or courses. This belief is deeply ingrained in my approach to attracting new clients. The driving force behind my client acquisition strategy has been the power of word-of-mouth referrals and the tangible results that individuals have witnessed through my work. Observing the actual outcomes of my efforts inspires them to take action and seek my assistance.
A significant majority of my clients are investors, many of whom are also personal friends. Additionally, actively engaging in prominent real estate networks such as the Greater Houston Real Estate Investors Association (REIA) and assuming the role of Co-Leader of the Landlord Focus Group has proven to be a valuable platform for connecting with new and ambitious investors who are in search of support and guidance.
While I strongly believe that real estate is the most effective tool for wealth accumulation and achieving financial freedom, it’s not the sole reason I pursue this career. The most rewarding aspect for me is witnessing the happiness and satisfaction in my clients’ eyes at the closing table. Witnessing their happiness is invaluable and surpasses any monetary measure.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.har.com/daniel-tanasa/agent_DANIELTAN
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danieltanasarealtor/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Daniel-Tanasa-Realtor-Investor/100085174235979/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-tanasa-5074967b/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@analiensjourney6661