In the world of real estate investment, Chris Choi stands as a monumental figure through his groundbreaking accomplishments in Airbnb rental arbitrage. A highly celebrated individual, Choi is recognized as a top 1% earner on Airbnb. He is acclaimed not only for his success in crafting an impressive real estate empire spanning 14 cities and 5 states, but also for his profound impact as a mentor. His journey, leading him to accrue an estimated net worth of $100 million, serves as a remarkable testament to his business acumen and his empowering life philosophy.
Born in South Korea, Choi began his adult life pursuing a doctoral program in dental school. However, he soon realized that a career in healthcare would not provide him the financial freedom he desired. Against the advice of his family and friends, he made a bold pivot into the realm of real estate. His entrepreneurial journey started modestly with a single one-bedroom apartment, generating profits of $2,000-$3,000 per month. Over time, he leveraged his earnings to cultivate an expansive portfolio of over 100 Airbnb rentals.
A critical aspect of Choi's success is his guiding belief that success results from an 80% mindset and 20% skill set equation. This philosophy underscores his approach to business and has become a foundational element in his highly sought-after mentorship program. Beyond sharing his insights on Airbnb rental arbitrage, Choi instills a set of seven transformative rules of life in his mentees.
Choi's first rule is an ode to frugality and living below one's means. Even when his annual earnings exceeded $500k, he chose to live modestly, sharing a living space with roommates and allocating the majority of his income back into his business. This approach allowed him to continually grow his real estate ventures and enhance his wealth.
His second rule encourages a proactive approach towards money. Choi believes in the power of money working for the individual rather than sitting idle in a bank. He emphasizes the importance of investment as a tool to expand wealth.
In the third rule, Choi champions the acquisition of assets that generate a steady cash flow. By securing income-producing assets, he asserts, one can ensure their financial independence and avoid the need to work until the end of their life.
The fourth rule is about personal boundaries and the ability to assertively say “No,” without having to provide extensive explanations. Choi underscores that if such boundaries offend someone, it is their problem to deal with– not yours.
Rule five provides a perspective on emotional well-being. Choi recommends that individuals address and heal their personal wounds before embarking on significant life events such as relationships or parenthood.
Rule six urges individuals to refrain from wasting resources to impress friends or potential partners. Instead, he advocates focusing on self-improvement, personal growth, and investing in oneself.
Finally, the seventh rule reminds us to practice gratitude every day, underscoring the importance of appreciating what one has, even in the pursuit of more.
Choi's mentorship program is not open to everyone. It currently operates with a six-month waiting list, and Choi intentionally selects mentees who exhibit a coachable mindset and demonstrate a readiness to adopt his success-oriented philosophy.
Aside from his groundbreaking work in Airbnb arbitrage and mentorship, Choi's ambitions reach into the tech industry, with the development of a real estate-oriented tech company currently in progress. Further illustrating his bold vision, he aspires to own a 5-star hotel chain under his last name, CHOI.
Choi's influence transcends the world of business and real estate. With almost 2 million followers on TikTok and over half a million on Instagram, he utilizes social media platforms to share financial advice and life lessons. His objective is to break down cultural taboos around discussing finances and to show that, with the right career choices, investment strategies, and mentorship, anyone can achieve financial freedom.
In essence, Chris Choi's life and career provide a masterclass in leveraging a growth-oriented mindset, strategic investment, and dedicated mentorship. His story is a blueprint for aspiring entrepreneurs, echoing the sentiments of the legendary investor Warren Buffet, who famously advised, "your best investment is yourself." As Choi's success story proves, the power to shape our financial destiny indeed lies in our own hands. His journey and the principles he shares serve as a beacon for others, illuminating a path toward financial independence and entrepreneurial success.