Episode 259 - From Army Infantry to Real Estate Investor: How Jim Boad, an Army Veteran, Built a Portfolio Starting with $15K Deals

What does it take to leave the Army Infantry and build a 25-year real estate career across Arizona and beyond? In this episode, Craig sits down with Jim Boad, a seasoned investor who has seen every cycle of the housing market. Jim shares his journey from serving in the U.S. Army to navigating his first deal with just $15,000, tackling properties with galvanized pipes, and making his mark in Sun City, Arizona. He opens up about lessons learned, the mistakes he avoided, and the strategies that worked when others didn’t.

Learn how Jim transitioned from military life into investing, how he evaluates properties, and why mindset is critical in real estate. If you’re looking for insights, financial independence tips, and stories from the trenches of property deals, this episode is packed with value for aspiring and seasoned investors alike.

PODCAST HIGHLIGHTS:

[03:39] Jim shares how his journey into real estate first began.

[05:04] He explains leaving the Army without a high-ranking position.

[06:27] Jim recalls selling properties even when markets weren’t favorable.

[07:59] The housing market then wasn’t booming like it is today.

[09:33] He describes coming up with about $15,000 for his deal.

[11:04] Jim remembers facing issues with galvanized pipes in early properties.

[12:19] He reflects on how sales principles apply across different careers.

[15:50] Early investing left him thinking, “I’m only going to make 40.”

[17:46] A quick but impactful reaction shows lessons learned the hard way.

[20:26] Listings taught him where real profits could actually be made.

[24:08] Jim realized he’d be a strong buyer’s and listing agent.

[27:59] Looking back, he admits wishing for better timing on sales.

[31:52] Craig asks when Jim finally sold one of his properties.

[35:47] Negotiations stalled when both sides couldn’t reach agreeable terms.

[39:56] Jim offers advice on how to never pay rent again.

[43:53] He talks about targeting homes with minimum four bedrooms.

[47:45] Sun City, Arizona, becomes a highlighted market in their discussion.

[51:48] Jim explains programs that help people qualify for affordable housing.

[55:23] He stresses hiring skilled people to handle specialized adjustments.

HOST

Craig Curelop

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefiguy

📚 Book: https://store.biggerpockets.com/products/the-house-hacking-strategy

🏡 Buy Real Estate: https://bit.ly/3V3QDze

GUEST

Jim Boad

📱 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567072777563

💼 Linked: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-boad-aba962b5