For 20 years, Tamara Day has been buying, flipping, and renting out real estate. Her company Growing Days does full renovations on everything from residential to commercial properties and owns some rental properties as well. She didn’t realize it at the time, but it was shortly after walking down the aisle, that she said “I do” to a career in real estate investing.
When Day and her husband got married, their first house was a short sale that they bought then renovated while living in it. Growing up on a farm, Day has always loved the construction process and working with her hands, but that first home was where her love and knack for design became apparent. Fast forward years later, and viewers nationwide now watch as she perfects her style on HGTV’s Bargain Mansions.
Many real estate investors might not view television shows as a valid representation of the REI industry. But from a business standpoint, the basics are the same — money is still spent to fix a house and profit is still made (hopefully!) on the sale. She did acknowledge one obvious difference though.
“I spend a lot more on design for television and photography purposes than I would in a typical flip,” she said.
Day also designs for clients nationwide and said that is one of her favorite things to do. She also enjoys flipping.
“Figuring out how to take a house that’s been neglected and turn it into something that is appreciated is the most fun part of what I do,” Day said.
Q&A with Tamara Day
What aspect of real estate investing do you prefer and why?
“I prefer big old houses because they are built well and there’s always a way for them to work for a modern family. Space planning for these houses in a modern way, but preserving the historic character is my favorite part of it.”
What personal characteristic has made you successful?
“I’m not afraid of very many things.”
How have you evolved as an investor and as a businesswoman?
“Being a woman in this industry has been a drawback over the years, but I’ve learned to hold my ground and be firm and not let contractors think I’m a pushover.”
Why is the real estate industry good for women?
“I think the real estate industry is good for everyone, but women in general are becoming braver in the real estate world. I think that having TV shows like mine with female hosts have inspired people to believe that they can do it. If I can do it, you can do it and I think women in general have a love for the home and have a great eye to make them better.”
What can more women do better/differently to achieve greater success in real estate?
“Take the emotion out of the decision and make it about what is going to be the best investment.”
What three strategies/tools within the real estate investing industry have helped you the most?
“Building relationships with bankers, having a good platform for organization in your business, and working with contractors that are reputable.”
What is your favorite quote?
“It doesn’t matter who you are, where you come from. The ability to triumph begins with you — always.”
—Oprah
Get in Touch with Tamara Day
Website: www.Tamaraday.com
LinkedIn: Growing Days
INSTAGRAM: @Tamaraday and @Growingdayshome
FACEBOOK: Tamara Day
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