Living Out of a Suitcase to Building a Nationwide Real Estate Business

In this episode of Realty Resilience, host Dave Nations sits down with investor, author, and real estate innovator Zeona McIntyre to unpack her unconventional path to success. From launching her first Airbnb in 2012—before it was mainstream—to scaling across multiple markets, Zeona shares how she built a thriving business without following the traditional realtor playbook.Zeona dives into her early days of rental arbitrage, living between units to maximize income, and how she transitioned into owning properties across states like Colorado and Missouri. She also explains how the challenges of COVID-19 pushed her to pivot into midterm rentals—unlocking a powerful niche serving traveling professionals like nurses and first responders.The conversation explores her evolution into creative financing, including subject-to deals and seller financing, and how she’s closing transactions nationwide while being licensed in just one state. Zeona also shares insights from writing her BiggerPockets book on midterm rentals, the lessons learned from managing 25+ units, and why she’s now shifting toward passive investing and private lending for long-term wealth and cash flow.Whether you’re a new agent, seasoned investor, or simply looking for alternative ways to build income in real estate, this episode is packed with actionable strategies, mindset shifts, and inspiration to think beyond the traditional path.Key Topics Covered:Getting started with Airbnb before it was popularRental arbitrage and low-cost entry strategiesTransitioning from short-term to midterm rentalsBuilding a nationwide investing and referral networkCreative financing strategies (subject-to, seller financing)Writing and publishing a real estate bookScaling, pivoting, and finding new opportunities in changing marketsMoving from active income to passive investing and private lendingConnect with Zeona:Website: zionamcintyre.comInstagram: @zeonamcintyreTune in to hear how thinking creatively—and taking action—can open doors to entirely new ways of succeeding in real estate.Looking for more ways to elevate your real estate career? Connect with us today and follow along with our socials!Connect With Heartwood Coaching:Heartwood-Coaching.comFacebookInstagramRealty Resilience Facebook Group (Join Now)YouTube Channel (Watch This Episode Video)