BiggerPockets Real Estate Podcast I Started BRRRR-ing in My Mid-40s, Now I’ll Retire a Decade Earlier
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Nov 10, 2025 Brian Waters, a firefighter-turned-real-estate investor, shares his remarkable journey from a traditional career to a thriving portfolio of 16 properties that will allow him to retire a decade earlier. He discusses the importance of having a backup plan amid injury risks in firefighting, revealing how he leveraged home equity to kickstart his investing journey. Brian also elaborates on his successful move into turnkey out-of-state investments and the BRRRR method, emphasizing effective strategies, vetting operators, and scaling his portfolio without ever seeing his properties.
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Early House Hack Became Funding Source
- Brian bought a house in Southern California and rented it back to the seller to build equity while he traveled for work.
- That rental later became his 'golden goose' used to fund future investments.
Pivot Motivated By Dangerous Job
- As a 33-year-old firefighter and new father, Brian feared working until 63 and sought a backup plan using home equity during COVID refinance rates.
- He called one deal the 'firefighter special' and kept that property as a long-term rental.
Use Turnkey Providers If You're Busy
- Use reputable turnkey operators to buy out-of-state rental properties when you're time-constrained and need a hands-off option.
- Verify inspections, appraisals, warranties, and tenant-ready leases before buying.