Discover how Scott’s life-changing real estate journey with Freedom Mentor helped him earn over $120,000 from just two creative deals. In this interview, Scott reveals the challenges he faced, the strategies he mastered, and the lessons that led to success, transforming his family's future. If you're ready to explore how creative real estate can provide financial independence, stability, and freedom to pursue your dreams, this is the interview you can't afford to miss.

What You'll Learn:

• How creative real estate investing allowed Scott to erase debt and stress, take meaningful vacations, and build a secure foundation and future for his family.
• The personal growth and confidence he gained through the process—both as an investor and as an individual.
• Why the guidance of expert mentorship was the key to overcoming challenges and achieving extraordinary results.

This conversation is packed with actionable insights and inspiration for anyone looking to take control of their financial future.

From Construction Management to Financial Freedom: Scott's Journey

Imagine earning an extra $120,000 in just one year—how would it transform your stress, health, and relationships? Scott's story is a powerful example of how creative real estate investing can change lives. In this interview, he shares his inspiring journey from a traditional career in construction management to achieving financial independence—and how joining Freedom Mentor set the foundation for his success.

Life Before Freedom Mentor: The Grind Without Reward

Scott’s career in construction management seemed stable and fulfilling at first. "I always wanted to work in construction, and I enjoyed it," he shared. However, the reality of long hours, lack of profit-sharing, and limited time with his young family began to weigh on him. Despite his hard work and dedication, Scott found himself frustrated. "Year after year, I’d put in long hours, but I wasn’t able to provide the life I wanted for my family," he explained.

Financial strain only added to the frustration. Though he consistently invested in retirement funds and followed financial advisors’ guidance, the returns didn’t match his efforts. "They’d talk about how great the market was and share stories about their beach houses and boats, but I wasn’t seeing those results in my life," Scott said. Instead, he found himself juggling bills, relying on credit cards for vacations, and worrying about affording small luxuries like birthday parties for his son. "It was exhausting to work that hard and still feel like I was just barely keeping my head above water."

Determined to break free from this cycle, Scott decided it was time for a change. "I wanted to take control of my financial future and be accountable for improving my situation," he shared.

Discovering Freedom Mentor: A Practical and Grounded Approach

Scott explored various real estate investment programs but was cautious about where to invest his resources. One program suggested using his retirement funds to join, which made him uneasy. "I was nervous about risking what little I had saved, especially since the returns hadn’t been great," he said. That led him to continue his search until he discovered Freedom Mentor.

What stood out about Freedom Mentor was its realistic, no-nonsense approach. "Phil’s videos and materials weren’t about quick success or overnight wealth," Scott explained. "They emphasized hard work, growth, and accountability." Unlike other programs, Freedom Mentor focused on teaching participants to become CEOs of their own businesses, avoid common pitfalls, and build a sustainable foundation for success.

Scott appreciated the transparency and honesty of the program. "They made it clear this wasn’t going to be easy," he said. "It would take time, effort, and investment in areas like marketing and personal development. But they also provided the tools and support to help me succeed."

Taking the Leap and Transforming His Life

Despite being in a difficult financial situation—carrying credit card debt and struggling to make ends meet—Scott decided to join Freedom Mentor. "It was a stretch for us financially, but my wife trusted me, and I’m so grateful she backed me," he said. Looking back, Scott sees it as one of the best decisions he’s ever made. "This program has been transformative—not just financially, but for my personal growth and my family’s future."

Finding the Right Path: Balancing Family and Real Estate Ambitions

When asked if he ever thought about pursuing real estate independently, Scott admitted he had considered it. "I did actually," he said, explaining how he reached out to acquaintances who were already successful in the real estate market. One friend, in particular, demonstrated his approach of flipping properties—a method that required relentless commitment and significant time investment.

Scott’s friend, who flipped properties, had a demanding routine. "He worked a regular nine-to-five job and then spent every evening renovating properties until late at night," Scott shared. Although he admired his friend’s determination and success, he recognized that this approach wasn’t sustainable for him. "I had two young children at the time, and I was coaching teams. There was no point in doing this if it meant I wouldn’t have time with my family."

Scott reflected on the trade-off many people face between financial success and personal relationships. "Do you give away all your time with your family to have more money in the bank? What if, by the time you can enjoy it, you don’t have your health?" he asked, highlighting the importance of balance in life. This realization guided his decision to find a more practical and sustainable method for investing in real estate.

Choosing Freedom Mentor: A Balanced Approach to Success

For Scott, Freedom Mentor provided a much smarter way to achieve his goals. The program allowed him to maintain his full-time job, complete a few deals a year, and elevate his financial situation—all while spending quality time with his family. "It’s helped me improve my relationships with my kids, my wife, and even myself," he said.

One of the valuable lessons Scott learned was setting boundaries to protect his family time. "I started coaching myself to let leads wait when they come in on Sundays," he shared. "If I’m spending time with family, it can wait until Monday." This focus on preserving his personal life alongside his career reflects the balanced mindset that Freedom Mentor encourages.

Closing Two Deals: A $120,000 Game Changer

Scott's journey reached an exciting milestone when he closed two real estate deals simultaneously, earning over $120,000 in profit. These transactions were not only lucrative but demonstrated how creative real estate investing can be tailored to meet the unique needs of sellers while building Scott’s business.

Deal One: Supporting a Military Family’s Next Chapter

One of Scott's deals involved a single-family home with a detached garage, owned by a military veteran preparing for retirement. "He was in his early thirties, wrapping up his military service, and looking to start a new career," Scott shared. The man and his young family needed to relocate to another state but didn’t have the time or resources to prepare the property for a traditional sale.

Scott stepped in, offering a creative solution tailored to their situation. "They were enthusiastic about the offer because it minimized the stress of their move," he said. Scott purchased the property for $290,000 through a Subject-To agreement, providing the seller with an initial $5,000 and an additional $15,000 after the resale.

Scott invested approximately $13,000 in improvements to the property. These included addressing water issues in the basement, repairing the front porch and back steps, and conducting a general cleanup to prepare the home for resale. "We even helped package and move their belongings to their new residence," Scott explained.

The property sold for $400,000, earning Scott a profit of just over $75,000. Reflecting on the deal, Scott emphasized the importance of providing an "easy button" for sellers. "It’s about understanding what they need to make this big transition less stressful and delivering solutions that work for them."

Scott's Approach: Relieving Pressure Points

Scott’s success in real estate is rooted in his ability to listen to sellers and understand their unique circumstances. "Moving is always a big transition, often filled with stress and anxiety," he noted. "If we can take some of that pressure off by providing services that make their life easier, it makes a huge difference." This seller-focused approach has been instrumental in growing his business and earning the trust and appreciation of his sellers.

The Process: Building Rapport and Adding Value

From start to finish, Scott takes the time to build rapport and offer solutions that go beyond traditional real estate methods. "It’s not about fitting people into a one-size-fits-all box," Scott said. "It’s about being creative and providing personalized services." For the military family, this approach meant a smooth transition, a fair price, and a stress-free sale—all delivered with Scott’s hands-on support.

Deal Two: Saving a Condo from Foreclosure

While Scott was working on the single-family home, he simultaneously tackled a very different real estate challenge—a condo in a renovated mill building. This unique property had hardwood floors and plenty of charm, but a major financing issue had stopped a traditional sale in its tracks.

The seller, a single man, had initially listed the condo in late summer and found a buyer. However, as closing approached, the deal fell apart when the condo management company refused to complete the required questionnaire for the buyer’s loan. Facing foreclosure, the seller turned to Scott for help. "He was thoroughly convinced I wouldn’t be able to make it happen," Scott said. "He even told me that if it didn’t close in 60 days, he’d just walk away from the property."

Finding a Creative Solution

Scott’s determination to solve the problem led him to consult his closing attorney. Together, they discovered a local credit union that offered a specialized loan program without the extensive questionnaire required by traditional lenders. "I spoke with the loan officer, learned about their program, and made sure it was a good fit before even lining up a buyer," Scott explained.

Once Scott found a buyer, he worked closely with the buyer’s agent to ensure the financing went smoothly. "I walked them through the process and connected them with the credit union," he said. Thanks to the simpler questionnaire, the condo management company was able to comply, clearing the way for the sale.

A Win-Win Outcome

The seller was thrilled to avoid foreclosure and even made a profit on the sale. "He got all the money we agreed to, and the buyer came in with equity, getting a great deal on the condo," Scott shared. Meanwhile, Scott was able to realize a profit of over $45,000 on the deal, which required less than $1,000 in repairs and updates.

This deal not only highlighted Scott’s creativity and resourcefulness but also showcased his commitment to finding solutions that benefit all parties involved. "It was a much different project compared to the first deal, but it was fun running them concurrently," Scott said.

The Freedom of Financial Independence

The two simultaneous deals Scott completed were more than just financial wins—they were life-changing. Together, they netted him over $120,000 in profit, an amount that transformed how he viewed his life and future. Scott described the experience as incredibly freeing. "It’s very liberating to not be handcuffed financially," he said. "Being able to pay off credit card balances every month, take a family vacation without piling on debt, and actually enjoy that time knowing it’s paid for—it’s a total game changer."

For Scott, this financial freedom represented more than just monetary gain; it marked a shift in mindset. "As the business grows and continues to succeed, it changes how you look at life. The goal is to get to a place where you’re doing what you enjoy. Not every day is perfect, but waking up excited about the tasks ahead and finding fulfillment is the real reward," he explained.

A Lesson in Fulfillment and Purpose

Reflecting on his previous career in construction management, Scott shared how the grind of repetitive tasks wore him down spiritually and emotionally. "What you think a career is going to be often turns out very different when you’re living it day after day," he said. That’s why the transformation he experienced through creative real estate has been so impactful. "Now, challenges feel like opportunities to grow and learn, rather than a grind. It’s a shift in mindset."

This transformation has inspired Scott’s family as well. He has had meaningful conversations with his sons about striving for a life where they can enjoy what they do and find fulfillment in their work. "Very few people know from day one what they want to do and are fulfilled doing it. The real goal is to enjoy the journey and grow through the process," he said.

A New Chapter for Scott and His Family

As Scott approaches graduation from the Freedom Mentor program, the journey has brought him full circle—from struggling to make ends meet to adding six figures to his income each year. This financial success has not only allowed him to take care of his family but also brought the possibility of his sons joining him in the business. "It’s fulfilling to think about building something they can be part of," he shared.

Profit-Sharing: A Partnership Worth the Split

When asked about his experience with profit-sharing, Scott was candid about his initial concerns. "It’s one of the toughest questions I faced when contemplating the program," he said. The idea of splitting profits was difficult to reconcile at first. However, Scott’s perspective shifted dramatically as he experienced the value of Freedom Mentor’s guidance and support.

Why Profit-Sharing Works

Scott explained that while some investors told him he didn’t need a mentorship program, none of them were willing to actually help him close deals. "I can count on one hand all the people who have helped me out in any deals—and that number is zero," Scott remarked. Without Freedom Mentor’s accountability and direction, he recognized that there would have been no profits to split.

The mentorship offered by Freedom Mentor went beyond advice—it provided accountability and practical support. "Whether it’s following up on leads or addressing last-minute surprises during closings, the guidance is invaluable," Scott shared. He recounted instances when unexpected fees or legal curveballs could have cost him thousands, but the expertise and experience of Freedom Mentor helped him navigate those challenges successfully.

The True Value of Partnership

Reflecting on his journey, Scott expressed his gratitude for the partnership. "I’ve had closings where, without Brian to walk me through the process, I would have lost significant amounts of money. It’s the reality of business—people will try to misdirect you or distract you to make you settle for less. Having someone with experience to help check and balance everything has been invaluable."

For Scott, the profit-sharing arrangement has proven its worth. "Would it be nice to keep 100%? Sure, but I wouldn’t be where I’m at without the guidance and assistance," he said. Over time, he’s grown to appreciate the structure. "When your money is going to the right place and being used correctly, you feel good about it. It’s part of the process, and I’ve come to value it."

Advice to His Younger Self: Start Early and Stay Committed

When asked what advice he would give his younger self, Scott didn’t hesitate: "Start as soon as possible. Get going in real estate right away." He believes the earlier someone invests in real estate, the better. "It’s one of the few investments that isn’t going anywhere—people always need a place to live, and there’s only so much land and so many houses available," he explained.

Scott often shares this perspective with younger real estate investors, encouraging them to persevere despite the inevitable challenges. "It’s not always easy—there will be bumps in the road and struggles—but in the long run, you’ll be so glad you stuck with it." Reflecting on his own career, Scott regrets not starting earlier, saying, "If I had begun this 10, 15, 20 years ago, my family’s life would be in a much different place today. Real estate is truly a great path to wealth and prosperity if done correctly."

Personal Development Through Real Estate

To those considering Freedom Mentor, Scott emphasized that the program is more than a financial investment—it’s an investment in personal growth. "Phil has developed phenomenal learning material," he said, describing how the program has helped him prioritize and streamline his tasks, even while juggling multiple deals, a full-time job, and family commitments. "You learn to focus on what really matters each day—those one, two, or three tasks that will make the biggest difference."

Scott highlighted one of Phil’s key principles: finding the fastest path to money. "You start identifying what actions will ensure a deal closes on time or what steps will move you forward the fastest," he explained. This approach has helped Scott accelerate his growth, skip past common pitfalls, and learn critical lessons along the way.

Beyond financial success, Freedom Mentor has helped Scott evolve as a person. "The program teaches you to verify information, slow down, and think critically about what’s happening," he said. While his early deals were stressful, Scott has since gained confidence and clarity. "You take things in stride and focus on learning and growing through each experience." This growth has had a ripple effect in Scott’s life, influencing how he works with sellers, builds rapport, and solves problems. For Scott, this transformation of mindset, confidence, and personal development has been one of the most valuable outcomes of the program.

Current Projects and Future Goals

As Scott nears graduation from the Freedom Mentor program, he’s focused on completing one final deal to mark this milestone. "Right now, we’re working on a family renovation for a flip," he shared. The property, acquired through a Subject-To agreement, is in the final stages of interior renovations. Scott expects to list it for sale within the next four to six weeks, and the profits from this project should secure his completion of the program.

Looking ahead, Scott plans to expand his real estate endeavors with a focus on long-term holds. "Both of my sons are interested in building a portfolio of long-term rental properties," he explained. Scott and his wife aim to create opportunities for their sons to start with house-hacking strategies, allowing them to offset their housing costs while learning how to manage and maintain properties. "I want to set them up for success so they can start building generational wealth and avoid the financial struggles."

Building a Legacy Through Real Estate

Scott’s future plans revolve around creating a sustainable retirement plan and ensuring financial stability for his family. "Traditional retirement investments, like a 401k, are things we can’t control. Real estate, on the other hand, gives us that control," he said. His goal is to continue accumulating real estate assets that provide financial security and flexibility.

For Scott, real estate is more than a business—it’s a way to build a legacy. "I want my sons to have a foundation for their future, where they’re not financially strapped. It’s about creating something they can grow with and pass down," he shared.

Transformation After Freedom Mentor

Scott reflected on how his journey with Freedom Mentor has profoundly changed his life, both personally and professionally. "I feel more confident," he shared. "I’m a better decision maker, more organized with my time, and more accountable to myself. Instead of blaming external factors for success or failure, I’ve learned to focus on what I can control and how I can improve." This shift in perspective has not only strengthened Scott as an entrepreneur but has also impacted his family, inspiring his children to grow and challenge their own potential.

The Reward of Fulfillment

For Scott, real estate isn’t just about financial gain—it’s about fulfillment. "Beyond the financial and professional fulfillment, helping people transition to the next phase of their life is incredibly rewarding," he said. Scott often hears from clients years after closing, expressing gratitude for his role in their journey. "When they reach out to share how well they’re doing, it’s a great feeling—it reminds me why I love what I do."

Wisdom and Looking Forward

As Scott reflects on his experience, he’s passionate about sharing advice with others. "Investing in real estate early and sticking with it can change your life. It’s not always easy, but the long-term rewards are worth it," he emphasized. For those considering Freedom Mentor, Scott underscored the program’s impact on personal and professional development. "It’s an investment in yourself, helping you grow as a person and entrepreneur."

Scott’s journey with Freedom Mentor has equipped him with the confidence and skills to achieve financial freedom and build a legacy for his family. "It’s affected the whole of my life and my children’s future. I’m grateful for the guidance and mentorship that brought me here."

Every Successful Creative Real Estate Investor Has a Mentor

If you’re ready to take control of your financial future and build a life of freedom, consider applying to the Freedom Mentor apprentice program. The skills and confidence you’ll gain can become your foundation for success: Freedom Mentor Apprentice Program.

If you have questions for us, text FREEDOM to 305-315-8030 or post a comment below.