Resetting, not Retreating. "The Little Engine That Could"

11d (edited) • Wins!

Hey B2R Family,

Long post alert!

Since my last update in September, I’ve been steadily pushing forward—with a hard hat in one hand and coffee (spike of irish cream) in the other. 😅

I’m happy to share that I officially closed on my first lot at the end of October, after what felt like a mini legal marathon (multiple negotiations and contract redlines—consider it my pre-construction workout).

Since closing:

✔️ Soil test completed
✔️ 811 dial-before-you-dig submitted (except I think they forgot to mention the emotional digging involved)
✔️ Learned I needed to inform that a utility pole currently sits on my land like it owns the place
✔️ Survey done before close, later discovered to be incomplete—thank you to Juan and the structural engineer for catching that before I built over an easement. 🙏

That updated survey (showing proper setback/easement detail) is now the final blocker before plans can be completed and submit the first permit for turning dirt.

My goal for this year was secure a lot & build a duplex by year-end.

Technically: lot secured ✔️, build started ❌. 😭

This year, I:

Spoke with four potential construction lenders (no final commitments yet, but we’re getting closer)
Continue sending monthly progress updates to my lender list, which keeps growing thankfully, unlike interest rates 😬
Am transitioning the other side of my current duplex into Airbnb /mid-term rental as well.
How to mention what I'm doing to any and everybody who will listen - I’m looking to align with a lending partner or investor willing to support a high-capability, first-time ground-up builder. If you’re open to talking about financing, creative structuring, or strategic partnership,let’s connect before the utility pole starts charging me rent. 🙃

And yes—I’m still working full time. Because why not build generational wealth and drive enterprise initiatives simultaneously?

Despite delays, I’m still excited. There are lessons, laughter, and the occasional “what was I thinking?” moment. If 2025 was the year of soft costs and soil tests, 2026 is the year of permits, power tools, and progress + more duplexes.

Sending positive energy to all of you. I know this year had its curveballs for most of us. For some, it was mold and too many cabinets. For others, material costs. For me… it was realizing surveys don’t always survey everything. 😂

But we’re still here. Still learning. Still building. Still pushing.

I believe 2026 is the year we all break ground—in one way or another.

Still the little engine that could, just with steel-toe boots now

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