One Rental At A Time Sudden Job Loss Sends Lauren on Crazy Real Estate Journey
Feb 24, 2026
A sudden job loss sparks a wild pivot into real estate, from renovating a near-teardown in Maui to niche equestrian rentals near a major horse center. She builds horse-friendly properties with stalls and arenas, experiments with Airbnb and boutique motel concepts, and even plans a motel with a five-lane bowling alley. Partnerships, flips to fund deals, and a push for women’s financial independence round out the story.
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Job Loss During COVID Sparked Investing Shift
- Lauren lost her job during COVID which pushed her to pursue real estate investing for income stability.
- She organized a Bali retreat, refunded attendees when COVID hit, took the loss, and used that shock as the catalyst to build rental income.
Getting In Early On Ocala Equestrian Boom
- Lauren found Ocala, Florida after following the planned World Equestrian Center and bought properties before the market recognized its impact.
- She targeted seasonal equestrian demand, renting high-value farms to competitors needing boarding near events.
Seasonal Premium Can Match Annual Rent
- Seasonal demand can equal year-round income when you price for peak seasons like equestrian winter circuits.
- Lauren priced midterm seasonal rentals November–May so they produced similar annual revenue compared with long-term leases.