Garrett Smith's journey into real estate began at the young age of 18 when he bought his first house, rented out the extra rooms, and was able to live for free. By the time he graduated from college with degrees in Finance and Marketing, he owned seven houses and had a solid foundation in the industry. After college, Garrett joined the Army National Guard and took on a finance role with a general contractor in the construction industry, gaining valuable discipline and leadership skills that would later drive his success.At 26, Garrett decided to dive full-time into real estate. He quit his job after amassing 25 houses and began focusing on larger multi-unit properties. He sold some of his houses to buy a four-unit apartment, a six-unit shopping center, and a six-unit apartment complex. Garrett's relentless drive and strategic investments quickly expanded his portfolio, leading to the acquisition of more multi-unit properties.Garrett's real estate journey took a significant turn when he met Glenn Yaney, a property management expert. At that time, Garrett owned 50-60 units and was challenged with management issues. Glenn's expertise helped streamline operations and set the stage for exponential growth. Together, they formed a partnership that complemented each other's strengths—Garrett's vision and acquisition skills paired with Glenn's operational acumen.Under Garrett's leadership, Vertical Equity Group has grown to own and manage 500 units, with a goal to reach 800+ units by the end of 2024. The company specializes in acquiring and transforming underperforming mobile home parks into thriving communities. Garrett's secret sauce is his willingness to take on properties that others are too timid to tackle, turning "D" class parks into "B" class assets. This approach not only improves the communities but also generates excellent returns for Vertical Equity Group’s investors.Despite his professional achievements, Garrett remains a dedicated family man. He prioritizes spending quality time with his wife and children, ensuring that he is present for every important moment. This balance between work and family is a cornerstone of his life, allowing him to dictate how he uses his time and focus on what truly matters.Garrett's story is one of relentless hustle, strategic vision, and a deep commitment to both his family and the communities he serves. As he continues to grow Vertical Equity Group, his mission remains clear: to create affordable, quality housing and leave a lasting legacy for his family and the people he impacts through his work.