Joey Chianese, a Virginia-based real estate entrepreneur and investor, has made a name for himself in the Hampton Roads area through his strategic approach to real estate investing. Specializing in the “slow flip” model, Chianese provides aspiring homeowners with accessible pathways to property ownership. As the head of 72019 LLC, he focuses on offering unique financing options, including land contracts, that allow buyers to gradually acquire homes. In addition to his real estate ventures, Chianese also shares his expertise as a marketing consultant and investment advisor, leveraging platforms like YouTube and Skool to educate others in the industry. His dedication to helping others achieve success has made him a valuable mentor in the real estate world.
In this interview, Chianese opens up about his leadership style, the importance of risk-taking, and the methods he uses to grow his business and mentor others. We dive into his experiences in overcoming challenges, building strong relationships, and maintaining a clear vision for his future.
Leadership and Decision-Making in Real Estate Investing
When asked about a strategy that has been instrumental in growing his business, Chianese credits his willingness to take risks. “I buy every house I have a good opportunity to purchase,” he says. While acknowledging that not every deal is perfect, he believes that risk versus reward is a crucial factor in scaling a real estate portfolio. “Nine out of ten times everything works out well,” he explains, noting that even when mistakes are made—such as overpaying for a property or overlooking a hidden issue—the long-term success of his investments usually balances out.
Chianese also highlights the importance of evaluating all options when making important decisions. “You need to predict all scenarios and outcomes before making a decision,” he advises. This level of foresight is essential when working in real estate, where the stakes are high, and every move can have significant financial implications. He emphasizes that it’s not just about making the right decision but also being able to recover from the wrong ones. “You have to be able to overcome the problem if you make the wrong decision,” Chianese adds, a mindset that has allowed him to thrive in a competitive and unpredictable industry.
Building Trust and Strong Professional Relationships
As a successful real estate investor, Chianese understands the value of trust and honesty in business relationships. He believes these qualities are foundational to maintaining long-term, successful partnerships with colleagues and mentors. “It’s all about trust and honesty,” Chianese asserts. “Never tell a lie. Be honest and straight up with every deal you do.” In the world of real estate, where large sums of money are involved, this approach is crucial for building credibility and fostering respect within the industry.
Chianese’s commitment to honesty extends to his team of 15 employees. “If I say I’m gonna do something, I’m gonna do it,” he emphasizes. “If I tell them something, it’s the truth.” This level of integrity helps create an environment where his team members feel supported and valued. The importance of transparency in business is something Chianese holds dear, especially in a field where millions of dollars change hands each year.
Continuing Education and Mentorship
To stay ahead in the ever-evolving real estate market, Chianese invests in continuing education. He is an active participant in the Freedom Accelerator program, led by his mentor, Scott Jelinek. This program focuses on the “slow flip” investment model, which Chianese employs in his own business. “We learn new things every week,” he shares, noting that the program helps him refine his approach and stay updated on the latest trends in real estate investing.
Chianese is also involved in a mastermind group with fellow investors who are committed to the slow flip model. “We always discuss new strategies and ways to grow our business,” he explains. In addition, he looks forward to the annual Freedom Accelerator Summit, an event in Virginia Beach where around 400 investors gather to discuss owner financing homes and slow flips. “I’m excited to meet investors from all around the world,” he says, reflecting his enthusiasm for networking and sharing knowledge with others in the industry.
Through these educational initiatives, Chianese is not only improving his own business but also contributing to the growth of others. His commitment to mentorship is evident in his willingness to share insights with new investors and help them succeed. “Many of them look up to me because of my success, so I’m always there for them to help with any questions or problems they have,” he says. This supportive attitude has led to collective successes within his mastermind group, including helping members earn over $200,000 in assignment fees.
Goal Setting and Delegation
Chianese also emphasizes the importance of setting achievable goals and tracking progress. One of the methods he uses to stay on track is a project called “future vision.” Each year, he writes a paragraph or two describing how he wants his life to look in five years—specifically, how he envisions his slow flip properties being paid off. This exercise helps him maintain clarity and focus as he works towards his long-term goals.
When it comes to running his business, Chianese is not afraid to delegate tasks to others. “I give a lot of work to others simply because I don’t want to do it,” he admits. As his business grows and he achieves greater financial freedom, he finds that he is less motivated by money and more focused on creating passive income streams. This allows him to prioritize his time and energy on high-level decision-making, while his team handles the day-to-day tasks. “Part of my future vision is to have a full-time property manager so I’m not involved with my own business at all,” he says, envisioning a future where his income is generated without his direct involvement.
Motivating and Appreciating His Team
Motivating his team to achieve outstanding results is a priority for Chianese, and he uses a variety of methods to keep his employees engaged. “My team is very money motivated,” he explains, highlighting the importance of paying his team well and offering opportunities for bonuses. He also goes the extra mile to show his appreciation. “One of my workers in Saint Louis, I bought him and his family a seven-day all-paid-for cruise just to show him how much I appreciate him,” Chianese shares. This generosity extends beyond just monetary rewards, as Chianese often gifts designer items and treats his team to lunches and dinners. “This business has changed my life entirely, and I want all my workers to feel the same way,” he says, reinforcing the idea that success is a shared experience.
Building a Legacy
Joey Chianese‘s approach to real estate investing and business is rooted in his commitment to risk-taking, honesty, and mentorship. His ability to make calculated decisions, delegate effectively, and foster a supportive environment for his team has allowed him to build a thriving business. Looking ahead, Chianese remains focused on achieving financial freedom while continuing to help others succeed in the world of real estate. His journey is a testament to the power of strategic thinking, personal growth, and a clear vision for the future.
