In the world of real estate, success often hinges on a combination of strategic thinking, practical experience, and a genuine passion for the industry. Recently, we had the pleasure of interviewing Ryan Walseth, a seasoned real estate professional at Lakes Sotheby's International Realty. Drawing from his wealth of experience, Ryan shared invaluable insights for venturing into the real estate arena and peeled back the curtain on the realities behind property investment.

Ryan's Background and Entry into Real Estate:

Born and raised in Northeast Minneapolis before relocating to Blaine during his childhood, Ryan's path eventually led him to college in Duluth. Following his academic pursuits, he settled in Minneapolis and embarked on his real estate odyssey in 2006. Recounting his early foray into property investment, Ryan said: “I bought my first investment property, a duplex, in 2006. It was a game-changer for me. Not only did it provide me with a place to live, but it also taught me the ropes of real estate entrepreneurship."

Ryan leveraged his duplex investment to live rent-free while accruing equity and honing his entrepreneurial acumen. This strategic move laid the groundwork for future endeavors, enabling Ryan to expand his investment portfolio and impart invaluable lessons along the way.

Ryan's evolution from part-time property manager to full-fledged real estate professional is a testament to his perseverance and dedication. In 2009, while juggling property management responsibilities alongside personal training endeavors, Ryan delved deeper into the realm of real estate under the guidance of a mentor. This formative experience provided him with firsthand exposure to the intricacies of commercial real estate, paving the way for his eventual transition to a full-time real estate career.

In 2017, Ryan obtained his real estate license, marking a pivotal milestone in his professional journey. Subsequent years saw Ryan's ascent within the industry, culminating in his affiliation with Lakes Sotheby's International Realty in 2020. Through unwavering commitment and strategic maneuvering, Ryan carved out a niche for himself within the competitive landscape of real estate, cementing his reputation as a trusted advisor and industry leader.

Tips for Retirees Investing in Real Estate:

During our conversation, Ryan offered invaluable insights for retirees contemplating real estate investments. Central to his advice was the importance of understanding tax implications when selling a primary residence. Drawing from his expertise, Ryan stated: “Understand what your tax exposure is. If you sell your home as a single person, you realize up to $250,000 of the net proceeds on the sale of the home tax-free. After that, you do have capital gains exposure."

For retirees considering real estate investments, Ryan advocates for a thorough understanding of tax implications and strategic planning. Leveraging his experience and expertise, Ryan guides retirees through the intricacies of property investment, emphasizing the importance of informed decision-making and professional guidance.

Drawing from his own journey, Ryan encourages retirees to explore various investment avenues, from hands-on involvement in small multi-family properties to passive investments in REITs and syndicates. By diversifying their investment portfolios and leveraging tax-efficient strategies, retirees can optimize their financial outlook and achieve long-term prosperity in retirement.

In essence, Ryan's advice for retirees underscores the transformative potential of real estate investments as a means of generating passive income, preserving wealth, and fostering financial independence in retirement.

Ryan's Abundance Mentality:

A defining characteristic of Ryan's is his abundance mentality, rooted in collaboration and knowledge-sharing. Rejecting the notion of competition, Ryan espouses a philosophy of mutual growth and collective success. As he aptly stated: “I don't believe in hoarding knowledge - sharing brings good karma."

From his dedication to educating others through social media platforms, e-newsletters, and panel discussions to his unwavering commitment to elevating the reputation of the real estate industry, Ryan embodies the spirit of collaboration and continuous learning.

Ryan's journey into real estate, marked by strategic investments and a commitment to excellence, serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring investors and seasoned professionals alike. Through his insights and experiences, Ryan offers a roadmap for navigating the complexities of the real estate landscape with confidence and clarity.

As we embark on our real estate journey, let us heed Ryan's advice: embrace opportunities, nurture an appetite for lifelong learning, and cultivate a spirit of collaboration. With determination, diligence, and a trusted team of professionals by our side, we can confidently navigate the twists and turns of the real estate market and achieve our financial goals.