The wealth building power of real estate investing is a time-proven fact. So, why don't more people invest in real estate, especially in a good investor market like we have in Denver now?

Simply put: fear. Even though the market looks good for investors, taking the plunge can be nerve racking. There are also lots of myths and misunderstandings surrounding investing. In his best-selling book, The Millionaire Real Estate Investor, Gary Keller talks about five "mythunderstandings" that can derail investors. These beliefs are often used as justification for failure, and many are repeated widely as cautionary tales.

Area residents can learn to recognize these mythunderstandings by attending a real estate investing seminar, presented by millionaire investor Kevin Mackessy, from 10 a.m. to noon on any of the following Saturdays: Jan. 12, Feb. 9, March 15, or April 12. Seminars are held at the office of Keller Williams Executives Realty, 200 W. Plaza Dr., #200 in Highlands Ranch. To make a reservation for any of the seminars, call 720-206-0203.

"One of the myths I hear a lot is that investing is complicated," Mackessy says. "The truth is, it is only as complicated as you make it. Most of us have bought a home to live in. Buying investment property is easier. No emotion is involved."

Almost anything taken as a whole can appear more complex than it really is. However, you don't need to know everything in order to do something. Seek the knowledge you need to get in the game. Read. Study. Ask questions. Find knowledgeable investors with proven track records. Avoid the late night infomercial route.

"Another myth is that the best investments require knowledge most people don't have," Mackessy continues. "The truth is your best investments will always be in areas you can or already do understand. Investing in something you don't understand isn't investing-it's speculation. Remember the Internet stock bubble? Real estate provides investors with a tangible asset. Nobody can take your investment property from you on a whim. But stocks can plummet to zero."

Many people believe investing is risky. The truth is that investing, by definition, is not risky.

"Investors don't ignore risk; we mitigate risk by following sound principles and models," Mackessy says. "We buy property under terms that immediately create a profit. December and January are two of the best months to buy investment properties in Colorado. Some would call trying to rent a house in winter risky. But if you know how to do it right, risk is taken out of the equation."

Investing is about having sound criteria, the patience to find the right opportunity, and a willingness to take action. You can minimize risk while maximizing return.

Others believe successful investors are able to time the market. The truth is that in successful investing, the timing finds you. Timing is one of the most misunderstood concepts in investing. Many inexperienced people think investors are poised on the sidelines waiting for opportunities.

"The truth is that timing is about being active," Mackessy says. "The best deals come from the best opportunities, and the best opportunities go fast. You must be constantly searching for opportunities that meet your criteria. When you find one, you must be prepared to act. Quickly. I once discovered a great real estate investment based on personal information gleaned from the seller, and walked into $20,000 in instant equity. I found a solid tenant who signed a three-year lease. All in December. Good timing, right?"

Another myth is that all the good investments are taken. The truth is that every market, in every time, has its share of good investments. Two market forces create opportunities: economic and personal. They are always present and influencing the market.

Economic forces include job growth, interest rates, population shifts and area revitalization. Personal forces include opportunities from positive circumstances, such as relocation, marriage and family growth. Others arise from negative conditions such as divorce, debt and foreclosures.

"Many opportunities are out there to help people with their problems," Mackessy concludes. "Investors offer solutions. We want to help."

Many high-achieving investors have faced fears or doubts about investing that ultimately proved unfounded. These common "mythunderstandings" can stand between you and true financial wealth.

To register for one of the MREI seminars, visit BuyHoldWealth.com or call 720-206-0203. Seminars cost $25 and attendees receive a copy of the MREI book.

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