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Confessions of a Real Estate Entrepreneur: What It Takes to Win in High-Stakes Commercial Real Estate: What it Takes to Win in High-Stakes Commercial Real Estate

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A front row seat into the world of high-stakes commercial real estate investing “A must-read book … one of the best real estate investment books I have ever read. On my scale of 1 to 10, this unique book rates an off-the-charts 12.” ---Robert Bruss Confessions of a Real Estate Entrepreneur is for the individual who is ready to get serious about investing. Not a rah-rah or get-rich-quick book, this book is for someone who is prepared to think about what he or she wants to accomplish. James Randel provides the how and why. James Randel has been a successful investor and educator for 25 years. He teaches investing through stories and anecdotes – bringing to the limelight not just his successes (and there are some amazing stories of these) but also his mistakes. His candor is instructive and entertaining. It is said that “those who can, do, and those who can’t, teach.” James Randel is a rare exception as he is both a highly successful investor as well as an excellent teacher. As said by Jeff Dunne, Vice Chairman of the largest real estate company in the world, CB Richard “I’ve tracked Jimmy’s incredible run of successful real estate investments for 20 years and more recently invested very profitably with him. His new book is a must read for anyone interested in real estate investing.” If you are tired of the “same old, same old” and prepared to play in the big leagues, this book is calling your name.

224 pages, Paperback

First published December 19, 2005

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About the author

James A. Randel

2 books2 followers

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5 stars
116 (42%)
4 stars
88 (32%)
3 stars
55 (20%)
2 stars
10 (3%)
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2 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
Profile Image for Mike Hohrath.
182 reviews36 followers
January 30, 2019
Really enjoyed this book by James Randel. It's similar to other real estate books I've read, but with a heavy focus on small scale commercial real estate from the perspective of an entrepreneur. The author has been a real estate lawyer, broker, and player for over 25 years and has a great perspective on the industry.

I found the chapter "The Basics" very helpful as he covered the important legal, financial, and business fundamentals of the industry. He covers concepts like "Tenancy in Common" to different types of mortgages.

I also particularly enjoyed the stories and lessons that he drew on from his long career as a real estate entrepreneur. He was able to use conversations and examples very effectively to make points and engage the reader. I never felt bored reading this book and would highly recommend it!
Profile Image for Bobby Wuertz.
40 reviews1 follower
December 31, 2024
If you are curious about CRE, this is a must. I will be getting this book for all new hires. I have been in the business for 10 years and found some great wisdom and reminders of what to do and what not to do.
1 review
August 15, 2024
I am new to commercial real estate investing, and I bought this book after researching the best books on real estate. This was on many people's Top 10 Lists.

I'm not exaggerating when I say that I LOVED this book. James has a very easy-to-understand writing style, and his use of examples and stories makes the whole book very digestible. I read this book a few months ago just when I was starting out, and I am now reading it again as I know more and can better understand some of his specific terms/deals I didn't quite understand the first time around.

From adding value to property, to buying whole-sale/selling retail, to leasing and buying and selling, this book hits on all the biggest and most important topics.

I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone interested in real estate investing!! 10/10, must read! :)
Profile Image for Logan Carlson.
21 reviews
February 17, 2025
Very good read. Ton of information & dense pages. Very detailed & specific advice. Great level terminology/vocab those to at intermediate levels of RE business knowledge. Definitely a huge step up after reading.
Profile Image for C.A. Martin.
Author 3 books2 followers
June 17, 2020
The advice given here is great advice regardless of career choice. I only gave it 4 stars because it's quite white male centric.
Profile Image for Arup.
236 reviews14 followers
March 8, 2023
I really enjoyed the book. Lots of different topics related to real estate deals covered here. Reminded me of the solitary real estate course I did back in school. Concepts were well explained and the writing was full of verve.
Profile Image for Korey.
484 reviews5 followers
November 20, 2023
Some real deal inside baseball on commercial real estate. Who you know, taking advantage of opportunities, risk and knowing the jns and outs of law help setup big wins!
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews

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