Joe Robert - Robert Ventures CEO.
Over two decades ago, I got started in real estate. Yes, I was only 19 then, and this was back when entrepreneurship wasn't cool (it was called 'self-employed'). It was the skills I accumulated in my teenage years by providing services as a landscaper and contractor that led me into the real estate sector.
One of my first properties was an old farmhouse (I wouldn't recommend it to anyone). It had the main house and an art studio. After I purchased it I went to work. Starting with the studio, I converted it into an apartment and moved in while completing the old farmhouse.
I stayed there for over two years and would sell it for one of my first tax-free transactions in the game.
Throughout my 20s, I would invest in real estate in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. This was where my family vacationed yearly and had ties with older generations. I bought and sold land and had the experience of doing some minor subdivision work on somewhere you can split the property up and recover costs with just the sale from one!
Started in real estate at 19, providing services as a landscaper and contractor. When the market crashed, I pivoted back to contracting services and began acquiring properties again.
One of my private lenders introduced me to distressed mortgages. Partnered with two other investors and started buying non-performing 2nd mortgages across the US for pennies on the dollar.
Moved from PA to Puerto Rico to enjoy the sunshine, beach, and tax benefits. Went on to buy REOs across the island and non-performing mortgages over the next six years.
Started meeting investors in Web3/Crypto and began allocating capital to understand how this technology would have an impact in twenty years.
Started acquiring lots in the highly desirable Outer Banks of North Carolina. Also allocated capital to a partnership that acquired 54 properties throughout Puerto Rico.
Allocated capital to a partnership that acquired 34 first-position mortgages. Robert Ventures was founded by myself after having partners over the last decade.
Continue to acquire lots to build new homes in the Outer Banks. Applied for REG A offering with the SEC to allow friends to join us on the investing journey.
Looking back, my career is not just a series of transactions, but a story of growth and adaptation.