From REIT Technology to Small Multifamily: How Michael Parks Started Investing While Keeping His W-2 — Part 1

From REIT Technology to Small Multifamily: How Michael Parks Started Investing While Keeping His W-2 — Part 1

From The Side Hustle and Business Show with Eric Lindsey by Eric Lindsey

July 9, 2026 · 10 min

About this episode

Michael Parks shares his journey from working in technology for real estate investment trusts to investing in multifamily properties while maintaining his W-2 job.

A high income and successful career can provide security—but they can also leave you dependent on a single paycheck. Michael Parks experienced the real estate industry from the inside while working in technology for publicly traded real estate investment trusts managing roughly $30 billion in assets. That experience showed him real estate is a business built on systems, teams, and long-term strategy—not just buying properties. Eventually, he decided he wanted to own real estate, not just work around it. Michael's first purchase was a ski-house vacation rental in New Hampshire. Although it appreciated in value, the rental income didn't fully cover expenses. The experience taught him an important lesson: Owning property doesn't automatically mean owning a great investment. Passive investors should evaluate: Income potential Operating expenses Underwriting assumptions Risks if projections fail Whether returns rely too heavily on appreciation After his first deal, Michael studied real estate through podcasts, BiggerPockets, and market research before purchasing three- and four-unit properties in Massachusetts. Instead of immediately making offers, he built a local network by meeting…

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