No one said entering this business is easy… and they were right. Going on a journey into the business world, particularly as a woman in the multifamily real estate sector, is not for the faint of heart.
It requires more than just skill and knowledge; it requires resilience, innovation, and a deep-seated belief in the transformative power of diversity and inclusion.
My journey, like many others, began with a powerful influence — my mother. She was not just the cornerstone of my success but also my inspiration, embodying the entrepreneurial spirit that would eventually fuel my own path. Her savvy investment strategies and pioneering approach to property development paved the way for what would become our family's legacy, one property at a time.
Then my father played an equally pivotal role, emphasizing the importance of grit and perseverance.
Entering the business world, for me, was akin to stepping into a vast, uncharted territory. The rules of the game seemed written by and for those who bore little resemblance to me, a first-generation immigrant from India.
Yet, I saw this not as a hurdle but as an inspiring opportunity to inject new perspectives into a stagnant narrative, challenge the status quo, and prove that a different approach was not just possible but essential for progress.
It was in this challenging landscape that I found my true calling — to redefine what success looks like in the business world, particularly in the competitive arena of real estate.
My path wasn't laid out for me; I had to carve it out with determination. But rather than seeing this as a barrier, I viewed it as an opportunity to bring a fresh perspective and change the narrative.
As a first-generation immigrant from India, I didn’t grow up with much. If there was one thing my dad taught me, it was that it takes grit to succeed. He worked for everything he had and I took that to heart especially. You have to work for everything you want. You have to prove that a different approach is not only possible but necessary for progress.
My initiation into the multifamily sector was driven by a blend of passion for real estate and a desire to create lasting impact through innovative practices and inclusive leadership.
The challenges were plentiful, from overcoming implicit biases to establishing credibility in a field where women are underrepresented. I learned early on that resilience is not just about bouncing back but also about pushing forward with greater knowledge and strength after every setback.
It's about standing firm when you're told, "This is not how things are done here," and responding with, "Then let's do things differently."
I think the best way I can prove this mindset works, is with the deal I transacted in Arcadia Cove — a milestone for women in multifamily. It was the largest woman-led multifamily transaction in the country as of 2023.
You see, you have to view these challenges, not as roadblocks, but as stepping stones placed to teach you the power of conviction and innovation. This mindset shift requires a balance of humility and audacity, where one is always ready to learn yet bold enough to disrupt the status quo. It involves creating a support network that not only empowers but also challenges you to grow beyond your comfort zone.
By embracing each challenge with a spirit of perseverance, I not only carved a niche for myself but also paved the way for future women leaders in the industry, proving that barriers are but the catalysts for innovation and change.
You never know who you’re going to meet. Growing up I wasn’t sure how exactly to network, but I watched my father. Wherever he went — coffee shops, taxis, trips, anywhere — he would always push himself to talk to someone (the driver or whoever) and have a conversation. He would build connections, foster collaboration, and show them that he’s someone who’s there and will care.
That was all the proof I needed to know: your net worth is defined by your network.
Now, a network isn’t just a safety net but a dynamic ecosystem of mentors, peers, and challengers who enrich the journey.
One of the most powerful lessons I've learned is the importance of building a supportive network. I raised over $1 billion in multifamily assets and I could not have done that alone. I also could not have accomplished this if I had surrounded myself with people who would agree with me all the time.
Rather, it's about cultivating relationships with mentors, peers, and even competitors who challenge you, encourage your growth, and offer diverse perspectives.
These relationships have especially been instrumental in my journey, providing guidance, support, and opportunities to collaborate and innovate.
To the women entrepreneurs aspiring to make their mark, remember that your path may be fraught with challenges, but it's in facing these challenges that you'll discover your true potential.
We don’t have it easy by any means; nothing’s handed to us, and just like I say to my daughters, I hope to pass to each of you the values of hard work and financial wisdom.
Embrace your unique perspective, and don't shy away from challenging the established norms.
Surround yourself with a supportive network, remain committed to continuous learning, and always seek to innovate.
Entering the multifamily business, or any sector for that matter, as a woman is about more than achieving personal milestones; it’s about laying the groundwork for a more inclusive, equitable, and innovative future.
Take that bold step, armed with resilience, vision, and the knowledge that your journey can inspire and pave the way for others.
Don’t just aim for success; redefine what success looks like together.
About the Author:
Veena Jetti is the founding partner of Vive Funds, a unique commercial real estate firm that specializes in curating conservative opportunities for investors.
Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed in this blog post are provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as an offer to buy or sell any securities or to make or consider any investment or course of action.