Episode 371: How To Break into Chicago Real Estate Investing in Your 20s with Michael Kaplan

Michael Kaplan is a real estate broker and investor who has grinded to become a top broker at 24 years of age! Michael starts by explaining how he realized that college was not for him and pivoted to an entrepreneurial route in real estate! He explains the mindset required to start real estate investing and how he was able to acquire a 4-unit property in McHenry. Michael gets granular on how providing top tier service in leasing allowed him to get referral business which led to the creation of his team, the REKAP Group. Throughout the show, Micheal emphasizes the importance of a strong work ethic and transparency to gain the trust of potential clients and propel your business' growth. If you enjoy today's episode, please leave us a review and share with someone who may also find value in this content! Connect with Mark and Tom: StraightUpChicagoInvestor.com Email the Show: [email protected] Guest: Michael Kaplan, The REKAP Group Link: Michael's Instagram (@M.J.Kaplan) Link: The REKAP Group's Instagram (@RekapGroup) Guest Questions 03:31 Housing Provider Tip - Keep space heaters handy to be prepared for No Heat situations in winter! 05:00 Intro to our guest, Michael Kaplan! 12:13 Grinding as a newly licensed broker. 25:05 The mindset to start investing in real estate! 31:37 Micheal's first investment in McHenry. 37:47 Starting the REKAP Group! 42:53 What would Michael change in his RE journey so far? 46:14 What is your competitive advantage? 47:12 One piece of advice for new investors. 48:17 What do you do for fun? 49:24 Good book, podcast, or self development activity that you would recommend?  50:26 Local Network Recommendation?  50:43 How can the listeners learn more about you and provide value to you? ----------------- Production House: Flint Stone Media Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2025.