Joey Chianese is a real estate entrepreneur based in Virginia, known for his innovative approach to property investment. He specializes in the “slow flip” investment model, which is designed to provide accessible pathways for aspiring homeowners to achieve property ownership.
As the head of 72019 LLC, Chianese focuses on land contracts, guiding clients through unique real estate investment and financing options in Hampton Roads and beyond. His strategic approach emphasizes property acquisition, enhancement, and gradual ownership transfer, positioning him as a distinctive figure in the local real estate market. In addition to his real estate endeavors, Chianese actively works as a marketing consultant and investment advisor, offering his expertise through platforms like YouTube and Skool. Through these channels, he has become a resourceful mentor for budding property investors, sharing insights into sustainable real estate practices and marketing tactics.
The following is an in-depth interview with Chianese, exploring his background, journey, and key insights into his field.
Background and Early Influences
Can you tell us about your early career and the transition into real estate?
Before diving into real estate, I had quite an unconventional start. I actually worked as a police officer for about 13 months back in 2015, for the city of Chesapeake. The job was incredibly demanding, both physically and mentally. It took over my life, and I realized that I was working 80 hours a week with very little time for myself. It was a tough decision, but eventually, I stepped away from law enforcement to pursue something different. I had always been interested in real estate, so I made the leap and started learning everything I could about the industry.
Who has had the greatest impact on your life and career and why?
Without a doubt, my uncle Scott Jelinek has been the most significant influence on my life and career. He’s the one who invented the slow flip real estate investing model that I use for my portfolio today. Scott has been a mentor to me, always there through thick and thin, especially during challenging times like when I was arrested back in 2019. He’s guided me through many potential pitfalls in real estate, saving me from making costly mistakes. His books, “Work Just Gets In The Way of Making Money” and “The Art of the Slow Flip,” have been instrumental in shaping my understanding and approach to real estate.
What experiences led you to develop your current business model?
My experiences in law enforcement and my early struggles in life played a huge role. I realized that patience and risk-taking were crucial to success. The slow flip model is all about patience; you don’t make profits immediately, but after about five years, the investments start to pay off significantly. It’s not a model for everyone because of the initial waiting period, but once you see the results, it’s worth it.
Professional Growth and Adaptability
What does your typical day look like, and how do you make it productive?
My business is somewhat hands-off now, which is fantastic. We own over 200 rental properties, and they pretty much perform on their own. This setup allows me to spend quality time with my family, which is my top priority. We go out for walks, have coffee, and just explore life together. This balance is what makes my days productive—having the time to enjoy life while the business runs smoothly.
How do you stay informed about industry trends and emerging technologies?
I make it a point to stay connected with real estate groups and forums, especially on social media. The market is always evolving, and it’s crucial to stay updated with the latest trends and changes. Although technology doesn’t impact my business directly in a huge way, I’m always open to new innovations that could save time or money.
Challenges and Learning
Can you recall a significant challenge or failure you faced and how you overcame it?
The most significant challenge I’ve faced was my arrest in 2019 by the Department of Homeland Security. I served 10.5 months in federal prison, and that experience changed me profoundly. It was a low point, but it taught me resilience and the value of starting anew. After my release, I focused on real estate investing with a renewed perspective and have been consistently adding properties to my portfolio ever since.
What is your approach to starting a new project?
Every new project requires a solid game plan before you dive in. You need to evaluate all possibilities and be prepared for the worst-case scenarios. Always have backup plans ready. This strategic approach ensures that you are well-prepared and can handle any surprises that come your way.
This interview provides a glimpse into the life and career of Chianese, revealing the experiences and insights that have shaped his journey in the real estate industry. As he continues to inspire others with his story and approach, Chianese remains a key figure in Virginia’s real estate landscape.
Expertise and Achievements
How did you develop your expertise in the real estate industry, particularly in the slow flip model?
My expertise developed over time through trial, error, and a lot of learning. My uncle, Scott Jelinek, was pivotal in this journey. He pioneered the slow flip model and mentored me on its intricacies. It’s about long-term investments and understanding the market dynamics to make it work. I read extensively, including Scott’s books, and applied those principles practically. Every property I invested in was a step forward in honing my skills and understanding the nuances of the market.
What has been one of your proudest achievements in your real estate career?
One of my proudest achievements has to be growing my portfolio to over 200 properties. This milestone was significant because it wasn’t just about the number. It represented the discipline and patience that the slow flip model requires. It showed me that the risks and sacrifices were worth it, and that with the right strategy, financial freedom is achievable.
What do you think sets you apart from other real estate investors?
Patience and risk-taking are critical elements of my success. Unlike traditional models where investors seek immediate returns, the slow flip model requires a five-year patience period before seeing profits. This model isn’t for everyone because it demands a significant commitment without immediate rewards. However, once the initial period is over, the returns are substantial. This approach, coupled with taking calculated risks and maintaining respectful relationships, sets me apart.
Vision for the Future
What are your goals for the future in the real estate industry?
Looking ahead, I aim to continue expanding my portfolio and refining my investment strategies. I want to help more people understand and adopt the slow flip model because it’s a sustainable approach to real estate investing. Additionally, I’m looking to leverage my knowledge to educate and mentor aspiring investors through more extensive platforms, potentially developing online courses or workshops.
How do you envision your impact on the real estate community in the coming years?
I hope to inspire a shift in how people perceive and engage in real estate investing. By sharing my journey and the challenges I’ve overcome, I aim to show that success is possible with the right mindset and strategies. My goal is to make real estate more accessible to those who think it’s out of reach, proving that with the slow flip model, anyone can start small and grow substantially over time.
As Joey Chianese reflects on his journey from law enforcement to real estate success, his story serves as a testament to resilience, strategic thinking, and a dedication to long-term growth. Through his innovative slow flip model and a steadfast commitment to mentoring others, Chianese is not only building a lasting legacy in the real estate industry but also empowering aspiring investors to achieve their own success. With a clear vision for the future and a passion for community impact, he continues to inspire and redefine what’s possible in real estate investment.
By Chris Bates
