The Key Ingredient to Real Estate Investing Success
Written By Tony Martinez
Main Points
When most people think about real estate investing, they imagine insider secrets, hidden strategies, or a shortcut that leads to overnight success. The truth is far simpler and far less glamorous. The single most important ingredient to success in real estate investing is effort.
No matter whether you’re starting with tax lien certificates, tax deed properties, or conventional real estate strategies, one principle remains the same: those who put in the effort are the ones who achieve financial freedom.
In this article, we’re going to talk about why effort matters more than shortcuts, or secrets and how it ultimately determines your success.
Why Effort Matters More Than “Secrets”
There’s no shortage of misinformation online about real estate investing. You’ve probably seen the claims: “Buy a house for $500!” or “Make six figures in 30 days with no money down.” What they don’t tell you is the truth: every successful strategy takes lots of hard work.
Tax lien investing is no different. Yes, there are opportunities to acquire properties for the price of the back taxes and penalties only. Yes, there are tax lien certificates that pay up to 24 percent interest per year; but, none of that matters if you aren’t willing to do the research, learn the process, and stay consistent.
Effort is what transforms opportunity into results.
In order to make money, you have to put in the work. There are no schemes or shortcuts; only real research, consistent effort, and hard work.
The Role of Effort in Tax Lien Certificates
With tax lien certificates, effort shows up in the research. You will need to verify the property details, confirm the interest rate, understand the redemption timeline, and review the title for any additional liens or issues.
It isn’t too complicated, but it does take commitment. Successful investors aren’t the ones who get lucky; they’re the ones who consistently put in the effort to research the right opportunities.
It’s also important to remember that even with strong effort, careful research, and solid planning, you may not always secure the tax lien you’re targeting and that’s okay. What matters most is staying consistent and learning something from every auction you attend.
The Role of Effort in Tax Deeds
With tax deed properties, effort becomes even more important.
You’re not just buying a lien, you’re acquiring real estate. That means you need to research the property’s condition, understand the local market, and know exactly what you’re getting into.
At the United States Tax Lien Association, our proprietary “Get the Property” strategies make the process clearer and more achievable, but real success still takes effort. Finding deeply discounted properties, navigating OTC opportunities, and securing real estate free and clear of mortgages all require the right knowledge, reliable systems, and a willingness to put in the work.
That’s why, here at USTLA, we provide step-by-step guidance, proven tools, and ongoing support to help you move forward with confidence.
Why Effort Creates Financial Freedom
Here’s the truth: most people won’t put in the effort.
They’ll read about tax liens or tax deeds, get excited, and then stop when they realize it requires real time and effort. That’s why the opportunity is so powerful for those who are willing to follow through.
Every valuable skill you gain, from evaluating properties to understanding redemption laws, compounds over time. The more effort you put in, the more skilled and confident you become, and the more opportunities for you to build real, lasting wealth.
Ready To Dive In?
Effort is the great equalizer in real estate investing. It doesn’t matter if you’re starting with $500 or $50,000. If you’re willing to put in the effort, you can succeed.
At USTLA, we’ve spent more than 30 years helping everyday people channel their effort into the right systems. Our “Get the Property” strategies show you exactly how to use that effort to acquire deeply discounted properties, own them free and clear, and create financial freedom on your terms.
If you’re ready to put in the effort, we’ll give you the strategies. Together, that’s the recipe for success. Check out our Free Online Tax Lien Investment Crash Course today to get started.
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Featured Lessons
Vital Information Beginner’s MUST KNOW FIRST so you can Get Started Right
Lesson #1
What is Tax Lien Investing & How Can it Help You Achieve Financial Freedom
Lesson #2
How to Acquire Properties for the Back Taxes & Penalties Only
Lesson #3
How Much Investment Capital is Needed to Get Started?
As with all investments, there is always an element of risk. Even if the interest rates are written into state government law, mandated by state government law, and are regulated by state government law, there is a chance of you losing part or all of your investment. You must always try to get the best education and practice safe investing, no matter which investment vehicle you choose.