As I traverse the world of real estate investing, the only certainty - not unlike death and taxes - is uncertainty.

Every property has it's own unique circumstances, whether related to the owner or the property or both.

It's a bit like those choose-your-own-adventure books I loved when I was a kid.

For instance, a seemingly straightforward deal can suddenly require complex negotiations due to undisclosed property damages or legal entanglements from previous owners.

I've learned the importance of expecting the unexpected and staying agile. Just recently, with my Catalfa property, it appeared to be a prime deal at a competitive price so I jumped at the opportunity and locked it up with a contract.

However, as I documented recently (Will She Be Mine?), I learned the seller was 4 months behind on his mortgage payments and owed the utility company $7,000 on top of the roller coaster ride I had securing financing for the project!!!!

This could have derailed many investors, but anticipating such hiccups allowed me to act swiftly to reassess the deal's viability or negotiate ideal terms.

In this dynamic market, adaptability is key. Being prepared to pivot and adjust my strategies has been crucial. Each obstacle is an opportunity to learn and grow stronger in my investment approach.

By expecting and embracing the unpredictability, I continually refine my ability to foresee potential risks and leverage opportunities, keeping me ahead in the game, not only in business, but in all area of life.