Chase McAnear, a native of Portland, Oregon, embarked on his entrepreneurial journey by forgoing the traditional college path. Born and raised in Portland, he steered towards his passion for real estate, initially as a broker and later as a business owner. Chase is the founder of multiple businesses, notably Lux Properties and Luxe Models. His entrepreneurial spirit and strategic approach have led him to develop diverse opportunities within the real estate and business sectors. With a commitment to his vision, Chase McAnear continues to make significant strides in the world of business.
How did you get started in this business?
It all started when I had to make a crucial decision about going to college and potentially accumulating a massive debt. Initially, I had aspirations of becoming a bicyclist injury attorney inspired by a friend of my dad’s. However, as I approached the decision-making time, I realized that if I were to pursue this path, I’d be on my own financially. Faced with the prospect of significant debt, I opted for a more challenging journey that wasn’t widely supported by those around me. Despite the skepticism, I chose to become a real estate agent after a conversation with a property attorney who pointed out the lucrative potential in the field compared to the traditional route. That’s how my entrepreneurial journey began.
How do you make money?
It’s a straightforward approach. Once I established the business, my focus shifted to the core of it—generating revenue. As someone who transitioned from being an agent for less than a year to a business owner, I streamlined the process. Firstly, I identified ways to make money myself. Once successful, I honed and replicated these methods, training others around me until they were highly proficient. The key lies in creating a product or service, promoting it, and brokering deals. Essentially, it’s about simplifying the process and replicating success with a team.
How long did it take for you to become profitable?
I made my first real estate transaction less than 3 months after getting licensed. This initial success became a crucial stepping stone for me. I used it as both a marketing tool and leverage to secure more properties. Since that breakthrough moment, my business has thrived for eight years without a single slow month. It was a turning point that set the tone for my entrepreneurial journey, and things have been clicking ever since.
When you were starting out, was there ever a time you doubted it would work? If so, how did you handle that?
In the beginning, doubt was a constant companion. Despite having close individuals advising me to follow the conventional path, I’ve always had a rebellious streak against norms and authority. When everyone was cautioning against my chosen path, it only fueled my determination to pursue it. However, it was undeniably discouraging, especially since I felt quite alone in the endeavor. While a select few were supportive, the majority either turned away or simply didn’t believe in my vision.
This period of doubt was the toughest. Yet, as soon as I started seeing success and generating income, the skeptics turned into supporters. It taught me a valuable lesson about perseverance and staying true to my convictions, even when faced with initial resistance.
How did you get your first customer?
My first client came about during my early days as a real estate agent less than 3 months after getting licensed. After obtaining my license, I frequented a gym where I enjoyed playing volleyball with a group of people. Playfully, but with genuine intent, I would jokingly ask them if they needed help selling their house. One day, they responded with a “yes.” Seizing the opportunity, I went to their house, navigated through the selling process, and successfully closed the deal.
What is one marketing strategy (other than referrals) that you’re using that works really well to generate new business?
Without a doubt, the most effective strategy for generating new business is showcasing success on social media. It’s a method that has consistently proven to bring in substantial returns. In my view, there’s nothing that brings in more money than visibly collecting and displaying success. If I were to sum up my approach, it would be just that—collecting success.
What is the toughest decision you’ve had to make in the last few months?
One of the challenging decisions I made a bit further back was promoting my executive assistant to an executive role and eventually as the CEO of one of my companies. It was tough because she was exceptional in her role as an assistant, but her performance and potential dictated a more significant position. It’s difficult when someone you rely on for both personal and business matters has to transition into a different role. Despite the personal challenge, she’s such an outstanding individual, and I believe in her potential. When we started working together, I assured her that if she committed to this journey with me, I would support her growth, even if it meant a shift in our working dynamics. It’s about recognizing her skills and ensuring she’s in the right position, even if it means adjusting to the changes it brings to our partnership.
What do you think it is that makes you successful?
My motivation stems from everyone who doubted me and those who tried to bring me down. I have a controlled level of pettiness that fuels my determination to prove them wrong. Additionally, I have a genuine liking for the finer things in life. Having experienced both living below and above my means, I consistently choose the latter. While some may see holding onto negative experiences as a drawback, I leverage this aspect to drive me forward. My motivation isn’t primarily self-focused; it’s centered around providing a better life for my current and future family. When faced with challenges or negativity, I tap into that darker side of motivation, as it proves to be more efficient and propels me to work harder and try different things. The doubters and naysayers act as premium fuel for my drive, pushing me to achieve more.
What has been your most satisfying moment in business?
Making millions of dollars feels pretty good. It feels incredible, especially when I reflect on the times when I was completely broke and in the negatives. It’s not just about the financial aspect; it’s about the assurance and peace that money can bring. While people often say that money doesn’t buy happiness, I believe it provides a sense of security. Personally, it’s satisfying to know that my family and I have financial stability. However, beyond personal gain, what truly feels remarkable is making a positive impact on the lives of others. Being able to contribute to improving the quality of life for those I work with adds a deeper layer of fulfillment. Both aspects, personal and the positive impact on others, hold significant importance for me.
What does the future hold for your business? What are you most excited about?
If I could reveal the true extent of my companies’ future, it would be shocking. However, I’m excited about turning the cash my businesses generate into substantial asset portfolios. Instead of paying myself a large salary, I plan to leverage loans against assets to minimize taxes. Another aspect that excites me is the prospect of affording a mall-sized doomsday bunker. I envision it with amenities like bowling, pools, and a basketball court, large enough to accommodate everyone I care about. This isn’t just a dream; these are concrete plans I’m working on. Everything I talk about, from achievements to aspirations, is part of a strategic approach.
What business books have inspired you?
The Bible is the only book that I read and would recommend. If you’re leaning towards business, there’s no business book that I would recommend. I would suggest something related to your own spiritual development.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Interestingly, reflecting on the past, I would advise my younger self to avoid tanning. A recent consultation with a dermatologist revealed premature signs of aging in my skin, surpassing my chronological age. While this advice may seem unconventional, it underscores the crucial importance of prioritizing health over mere external appearances. Now, at the age of 26, I’ve come to appreciate the paramount significance of preserving youthfulness and wish I had adopted a comprehensive skincare routine earlier. The cumulative effects of stress and the absence of guidance since the age of 18 have become evident. This atypical guidance stems from the conviction that safeguarding one’s health is fundamental, even in the pursuit of a specific aesthetic. It serves as a poignant reminder to prioritize overall well-being over superficial beauty, particularly when navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship.
Are you willing to be a mentor? If so, how should someone contact you?
You can follow my journey and reach out to me on Instagram.