For 38 years, Monica Masters built a successful career as a senior finance manager at Verizon, working in bustling metropolitan areas like Dallas and Tulsa. But when the opportunity for early retirement arose, she knew exactly where she wanted to be: back home in San Angelo, West Texas. The only question was how to make it work financially.

The Search for the Perfect Investment Strategy

Like many real estate investors, Monica had tried various investment approaches. She managed rental properties, dabbled in fix-and-flips, and maintained a traditional stock market portfolio through her 401(k). While each had its merits, none quite delivered the combination of reliable returns and lifestyle flexibility she was seeking.

“With fix-and-flips, as a small-time investor, I was just breaking even most of the time,” Monica recalls. “And while I was fortunate with good tenants in my rental properties, there were still maintenance issues to deal with.”

Let’s hear from Monica herself:

The Note Investment Discovery

Everything changed when Monica’s attorney introduced her to NoteSchool. “When I learned about notes, it was an ‘aha’ moment,” she says. “I realized I could manage investments from my computer, actually see my returns on a monthly basis, and do it all from anywhere – including my hometown in West Texas.”

Building a Sophisticated Investment Strategy

Within her first year of joining NoteSchool, Monica purchased 11 notes, quickly building a diverse portfolio across multiple states including Ohio, Delaware, Texas, Georgia, and Louisiana. But what truly sets her apart is her sophisticated approach to yield and returns.

“People often get hung up on targeting specific yield numbers, like 10% or 12%,” Monica explains. “But what I’ve learned through NoteSchool is to focus on the actual cash flow and total profit rather than just the yield percentage.”

Hear from Monica herself:

Using NoteSchool’s cash flow calculator, which she affectionately calls “the legendary cash flow calculator,” Monica analyzes each potential investment to understand:

• Monthly income generated
• Principal return timeline
• Total profit potential
• Risk-adjusted returns

The Power of Discounted Notes

One of the key strategies Monica learned at NoteSchool was the power of buying discounted notes. “The discount gives you a buffer against risk,” she explains. “I’ve had several notes pay off early, and while initially I worried about missing out on interest, I still made $12,000-$13,000 in the first year due to the discount. Those early payoffs actually pushed my yields into the 25-27% range.”

Current Success and Strategy

Today, Monica maintains a consistent yield of 9-13% across her note portfolio, but more importantly, she’s achieved her primary goal: replacing her corporate income with reliable monthly cash flow. Each time a payment hits her account, she receives an email notification. “I just open it, say ‘thank you,’ and delete the email,” she says with a smile. “It’s so great to get that feeling that the income’s coming in consistently.”

Why Notes Over Traditional Investments

Monica points to several advantages of note investing over other investment vehicles:

1. Consistent Returns: Unlike the stock market’s volatility, notes provide predictable monthly income
2. Lower Risk: Notes often require less capital than direct property ownership while being secured by real estate
3. Location Independence: The ability to invest in multiple markets while living anywhere
4. Early Payoff Bonus: When notes pay off early, investors realize their discount profits sooner
5. Minimal Hands-on Work: No tenant or property maintenance issues to manage

Advice for New Note Investors

For those considering note investing, Monica emphasizes the importance of:

• Defining clear investment goals beyond just yield targets
• Understanding the relationship between risk and return
• Using analytical tools to make informed decisions
• Starting with the first note purchase to gain confidence
• Taking advantage of NoteSchool’s training and community support

“It probably took me about a year to really understand and appreciate the full potential of note investing,” Monica reflects. “But once you see how it works and experience those consistent returns, it changes your whole perspective on investing.” Hear it from Monica herself:

The Future of Note Investing

Now settled back in her hometown of San Angelo, Monica continues to expand her note portfolio while enjoying the flexibility and freedom that note investing provides. “I can work from my computer, keep my money turning within my accounts, and spend time with family – including my dad who lives with me now. To me, that’s what makes this fun and rewarding.”

Ready to achieve success in note investing? The best time to start is now! Take advantage of the resources below to learn from industry experts, connect with a thriving community, and unlock your full potential in creative real estate financing.

Your journey toward financial freedom begins today—don’t wait to take the next step!

Whenever you’re ready… here are 4 ways we can help you start your journey into note investing: