Testimonials
This was one terrific book…My Life & 1000 Houses is an autobiography that details the life of Mitch Stephen, a very successful real estate entrepreneur from San Antonio, Texas who has purchased more than a thousand properties over the past 10 years. Do you think maybe he knows a little something about how to achieve financial freedom and perhaps a little bit about real estate? Yep, he does!
Three things I absolutely love about this book:
1. It is a phenomenal story of Mitch’s personal and business life — the good, the not so good, and the downright ugly.
2. It provides a number of practical business and real estate investing tips and strategies.
3. Stephen used the last ~150 pages of the book to share the most hilarious, sad, and inspiring stories from his real estate adventures.
My Life & 1,000 Houses to its members.
- Shannon Bynes (Fort Lauderdale, FL)
I am an avid reader and lover of adventure stories, including books by Ernest Hemingway and Jack London. MY Life & 1000 Houses is absolutely as entertaining, engrossing and compelling as any adventure novel I have ever read. This book is much, much more than just a “how-to” manual about investing in real estate. I have never invested in real estate, know next to nothing about the subject, and still could not put the book down! I read the entire 400 page book in 3 days. My Life & 1,000 Houses to its members.
Mitch’s story of courage, determination and persistence in the face of personal and professional adversity is the stuff of legend, and at the very core of what makes America so great. It is equally poignant, triumphant, inspiring, and at times, laugh out loud funny.
As a relatively new bootstrap entrepreneur determined to be successful, even if I never invest in real estate, MY Life & 1000 Houses is a book I will refer to again and again. It contains the type of wisdom and common sense that every entrepreneur needs a healthy dose of.
Even if you are not in the real estate business, GET THIS BOOK and devour it!
- John A. Rugh
While I was inspired by the author’s “out of the box” thinking and entrepreneurial tenacity, I was surprised at how entertaining and touching of a story he reveals in this book. We learn of Mitch’s rural upbringing in Texas and ride along with he and his family through their journey of struggles, victories and their lives as decent hard working people. The themes run the gamut of family, love, joy, humor, depression, addiction, loss, human nature and the clear message that winning at business does not always mean getting the best of someone else. After reading this book it is hard not to walk away with an expanded perception of success and a renewed energy to go after your own goals. My Life & 1,000 Houses to its members.
- T.Corbin (San Antonio, Tx)
There’s no shortage of books on building wealth from real estate. Hundreds of textbook-type offerings present all the business basics you could ever need, and plenty of how-to advice to go with them. This is not that book.
Mitch Stephen delivers a unique and practical guide to real estate success, one that examines the bigger picture. My Life & 1,000 Houses describes Mitch’s personal journey as a real estate entrepreneur, from his early struggles to his phenomenal success—success he achieved just one house at a time.
More than 1000 houses later, Mitch delivers what few real estate books do: the personal insights of an entrepreneur who not only knows what to do but does it. Plus, he goes beyond the boundaries of business, revealing how his experiences affected his personal life. You’ll gain a rare insight into the challenges, setbacks, triumphs, and unexpected lessons that come from one man’s venture into the entrepreneurial life. More importantly, you’ll be inspired.
- Eddie Speed, Founder of NoteSchool® and Author of Streetwise Seller Financing
My Life & 1,000 Houses is not another get-rich-quick book. Rather, it’s an inspirational story about thinking outside of the box, looking towards the future, establishing the right relationships, standing by your word, and continuing to challenge yourself. I saw myself in this book, and contemplated its content much more than I had expected. This book is a smooth, gentle read that keeps you turning page after page. I read it in just two days because I couldn’t put it down.
- Tommi L. Leonard, Vice President, Stillwater National Bank, San Antonio, TX
I consider myself very fortunate to have met Mitch Stephen early in my real estate endeavors. He has been extremely influential with regard to my real estate business. He has wholesaled deals to me that have always been profitable, and has given me valuable advice concerning the rehab process, resources to complete projects economically, and marketing methods to sell my properties quickly.
Perhaps even more important are Mitch’s many outstanding attributes. His personal energy, enthusiasm, attitude, knowledge, and integrity are unmatched in this business. Among our colleagues, Mitch is held in the highest regard.
My own business would be nowhere near its level of success without Mitch’s help and guidance.
- Raymond Braun, B,V & K Investors, L.L.C.
I have personally traded in the neighborhood of $2 million worth of real estate with Mitch Stephens. These transactions have involved selling, buying, borrowing, lending, and optioning of real estate.
Mitchell embodies all the qualities I would look for in a business partner, borrower, lender, or other participant in a real estate deal. His competence is superseded only by his sincerity, sense of fairness, and commitment to integrity. He does right even when it costs him. Mitch always values relationships over personal gain. He offers only those deals that benefit everyone involved. I value the privilege of having done business with him.
- Michael Walloch, Former President, San Antonio Real Estate Investors Association and Principle
I have purchased 8 copies of this book for my family and friends who are scattered over 5 states. Mitch writes short, concise chapters with an engaging style. They are easy to read and you feel like you have learned a valuable lesson from each one.
Two overarching lessons thread from the first to the last chapter: You can succeed in America; All success results from a foundation of persistence and hard work.
Mitch Stephen’s book has the same message my mother hung where all her teenage children could see it: GENIUS IS BUT PERSEVERANCE IN DISGUISE.
In closing I offer my opinion that you will not be disappointed in this book unless you believe it to be a get-rich-quick scheme.
My Life & 1,000 Houses to its members.
- James C. Rock “sayre sayer” (Texas)
This book was for me like looking in the mirror. The American dream is elusive. Few people are able to achieve financial independence, not due to lack of effort or desire, in most cases it is due to a lack of knowledge. This great country offers available wealth to anyone who knows how to build a portfolio of real estate. It is not a get rich overnight process, it is however a build lasting wealth program.
Mitch Stephens has reflected his real life story of his personal struggle to succeed. One day he paid attention to those who had the correct answers to the questions he was searching for. He took the first step in the direction of risk and gain in real estate and to this day has never regretted his decision. He is now financially independent and looking to help others follow his steps.
It seems to be human nature, if you have something good, you want to share it. Mitch is here to share his knowledge, only a fool would turn him down.
This book is a must read for anyone who is looking to achieve financial freedom. It is a fresh take of on reality and a story told from the heart. This book has inspired me to take the steps I should of taken many years ago. Mitch took the correct path and now, thanks to his book, it is time for me to follow his steps.
John Quest My Life & 1,000 Houses to its members.
- John Quest
I never expected a real estate “how to” to really be a life “how to”. I won this book as a door prize. I was stuck in the doctor’s office and went out and got it out of the trunk and started to read, thinking it would be more interesting than a 3 year old People Magazine. I couldn’t put it down! I am in the same business as Mitch and in the same town, and he is known to be very good at what he does. I never expected all of this out of the quiet guy that usually sits in the back.
His story touched me. Life is full of ups and downs, and all of these can get us off track on our business plan. Mitch shows us his personal and family struggles, and honestly points us toward the reality that life keeps getting crazier….so don’t wait to get started in the business….and hang in there, through it all. Almost everything is temporary….and we probably can’t control the things that are permanent.
Half of something is better than nothing. That sounds so easy, but in this business, it isn’t. He shows us how his own brand of crazy thinking has made him a fortune. He does NOT color within the lines. He doesn’t do things any way but his own. And it works, very well. So, I am re-framing my perspective. Mitch can work himself into the right side of the money on a deal better than anyone I know of. Here, he shows us how he does it.
Life lessons and business lessons are given in a very personal way through both word and music. Hope for hard times is thrown in for free. And I was reminded that this is a people oriented business above all, and that I need to serve mankind better. This business will reward me as a result of my service.
I was amazed by Mitch’s honesty.
My Life & 1,000 Houses to its members.
- Cathey Randolph “Land Lady” (San Antonio, TX)
I read this book through the night and the next day…couldn’t put it down. Very inspiring book laid out nicely, easy flow, realistic experiences that bring chuckles, full blown out loud laughs, and rolling on the floor hilarious incidents that make you think about your own life and living, endurance and determination, rewards and pitfalls. It’s not a real estate how to book. It’s not all about investments, either. It’s one man’s determination to make use of a tool God gave us. HIS MIND. It really made me stop and think about the things I’m not utilizing to fullest potential. There are thinkers and doers. Every day I sit and think about something is a day I didn’t DO. This man, Mitch Stephen, filled his head with knowledge while struggling to get past some financial hurdles. We can stay at what seems like a dead end road or we can look for a different path. We each define success in different ways. The book tells me Mitch Stephen chose the high road. Thanks Mitch for the insight. Best of Wishes. KMC My Life & 1,000 Houses to its members.
- Kathy Moore Cloud
Simply a real look at how business and living life come together. The ups and downs in life and business can brew all kind of results – both great and some not so great. Mr. Stephen is good at forgiving himself the poorer ones and then failing forward to be ready for the good ones. A wonderful and inspiring read. A real success story.
This book also blends life’s decisions, emotions and humor with a business and life plan that takes all sorts detours and a few side trips. His stories are fun to read and you will pick up meaningful ideas that apply not only to the real estate world but to life as well. Mr. Stephen goes through life with great faith and enthusiasm.
Read it and enjoy!
My Life & 1,000 Houses to its members.
- Christopher Rollins (San Antonio, Texas)
My wife bought me this book for my birthday. Actually she bought me the CDs because she knew I would never have the time to sit down and read it. I guess she figured there was nothing good on the radio these days and I’d be bound to listen to it.
All I can say is that it was good to hear that I’m not the only one out there that’s does things differently than most. Mitch truly understands what it takes to be successful in business as an entrepreneur. Few have the work ethic, the dedication and are willing to make the sacrifices necessary to succeed on their own. Running your own business isn’t even remotely as glamorous as most people think it is and he lets you know it. Mitch goes through some of the pitfalls that he’s experienced in an attempt to prevent others from making the same mistakes. He also explains the mindset that, as far as I’m concerned, you must have if you want to make it through the first few years in business–typically the toughest time. You won’t hear a “get rich quick” message in this one.
My wife is now listening to the book and I think she’s starting to understand me better. It’s helped her to understand why I make the decisions that I make and that it’s all part of a plan to allow us to have it a little easier in the future. Mitch does a much better job of explaining it than I do!
If your thinking about starting your own business or if you’re running one now, this book is a must have! Its more than just real estate techniques, it’s a book about the way a successful entrepreneur thinks.
My Life & 1,000 Houses to its members.
- S. Rohrbach (San Antonio, TX)
I want everyone reading this to know that I am writing this review without having read any other review. I do believe, however, that there will be a common theme to many of the reviews. The theme is simply that I could not put the book down. I’m sure many others felt the same way.
The story told in this book is very compelling. There are moments that you will be laughing at. There are also moments that you will weep. Mitch is able to paint such a vivid picture that you can actually create a mental picture of his life in your own mind. One thing for sure that you get out of this book is the belief that everyone truly can fail their way forward to success. This truly is a great book. The songs on the CD are’nt bad either.
My Life & 1,000 Houses to its members.
- L. Larkin
Mitch despite all odds came out strong and succeeded. I like his current investing model because it’s in line with my own investing model.
The book shows his gradual progression from newbie investor to seasoned investor and also highlights his key business and personal experiences along the way.
I also like the way he highlight his failures and his successes which goes to show that success is something we can all achieve if we only commit and spend the time.
Owner Financing is key and Mitch is living proof.
My Life & 1,000 Houses to its members.
- Owen Mcgab Enaohwo “Your Solutions Provider” (Laurel, Maryland USA)
I never expected a real estate “how to” to really be a life “how to”. I won this book as a door prize. I was stuck in the doctor’s office and went out and got it out of the trunk and started to read, thinking it would be more interesting than a 3 year old People Magazine. I couldn’t put it down! I am in the same business as Mitch and in the same town, and he is known to be very good at what he does. I never expected all of this out of the quiet guy that usually sits in the back.
His story touched me. Life is full of ups and downs, and all of these can get us off track on our business plan. Mitch shows us his personal and family struggles, and honestly points us toward the reality that life keeps getting crazier….so don’t wait to get started in the business….and hang in there, through it all. Almost everything is temporary….and we probably can’t control the things that are permanent.
Half of something is better than nothing. That sounds so easy, but in this business, it isn’t. He shows us how his own brand of crazy thinking has made him a fortune. He does NOT color within the lines. He doesn’t do things any way but his own. And it works, very well. So, I am re-framing my perspective. Mitch can work himself into the right side of the money on a deal better than anyone I know of. Here, he shows us how he does it.
Life lessons and business lessons are given in a very personal way through both word and music. Hope for hard times is thrown in for free. And I was reminded that this is a people oriented business above all, and that I need to serve mankind better. This business will reward me as a result of my service.
I was amazed by Mitch’s honesty.
My Life & 1,000 Houses to its members.
- Cathey Randolph “Land Lady” (San Antonio, TX)
This book was for me like looking in the mirror. The American dream is elusive. Few people are able to achieve financial independence, not due to lack of effort or desire, in most cases it is due to a lack of knowledge. This great country offers available wealth to anyone who knows how to build a portfolio of real estate. It is not a get rich overnight process, it is however a build lasting wealth program.
Mitch Stephens has reflected his real life story of his personal struggle to succeed. One day he paid attention to those who had the correct answers to the questions he was searching for. He took the first step in the direction of risk and gain in real estate and to this day has never regretted his decision. He is now financially independent and looking to help others follow his steps.
It seems to be human nature, if you have something good, you want to share it. Mitch is here to share his knowledge, only a fool would turn him down.
This book is a must read for anyone who is looking to achieve financial freedom. It is a fresh take of on reality and a story told from the heart. This book has inspired me to take the steps I should of taken many years ago. Mitch took the correct path and now, thanks to his book, it is time for me to follow his steps.
My Life & 1,000 Houses to its members.
- John Quest
This is a great book about investing in Real Estate and a lot more.
The reader will learn important lessons about the proper way to invest in Real Estate.
He or she will also learn about the importance of hard work, integrity, and never giving up.
I appreciate the author’s emphasis on family, integrity and believing in yourself.
Mr. Stephen is a great story teller.
I would recommend this book to all young adults.
My Life & 1,000 Houses to its members.
- Robert J. Dean
I’ve been dreaming about investing in real estate ever since my first seminar where I learned about lease-options (2006). I happened to be in Australia with my wife at the time and investing in real estate was a very difficult task to start because I had to be approved through the foreign investment review board, put down 35% on every deal, I couldn’t write options on properties and that was the only strategy I knew of…so I tried and because the barriers of entry were so high I couldn’t get started. So, instead, I ran a party boat through the rivers just off the coast of Surfers Paradise. A bit of a change but I never lost my desire to start investing.
When my wife and I returned to San Antonio I joined the local REI club (SAREIA) and didn’t know it was named after Mitch until someone recommended his book to me. I flew through his book the first time and re-read it a couple more times. Mitch explains his business model for single family homes and gives inspiration for the new guy by telling about the hardships he faced in a matter of fact way. It’s an easy read in the sense that you’ll want to read on because he is honest about the things he’s done that have brought him to where he is today.
Recently, I was lucky enough to meet him at the SAREIA Christmas party. In my mind I was thinking he would be unapproachable – I kept saying to myself “This guy has a book, music, and he’s the big fish in the San Antonio market and he’s bought and sold over 1000 houses…why would he want to talk to me.” Right when he walked up I shook his hand and sure enough – he spent 30 minutes talking with me about real estate. Down to earth and a genuine guy and it shows in his writing. If you’re just starting out, if you’ve been in the business for a while, and even if you know nothing about real estate I strongly recommend you pick up a copy of his book. You won’t be disappointed!
My Life & 1,000 Houses to its members.
- Randal Mcleaird (San Antonio, TX)
