Laurel Sagen is a Sacramento based author, entrepreneur, and founder of Laurel Buys Houses. Laurel first began flipping homes in 1999 and has continued to expand her business and team over the years. Today, Laurel and her team have flipped over 1,000 homes and her work has been featured on HGTV and multiple home tours. 

Can you tell our readers about your background? 

I first moved to the Sacramento area as a child. My father served in the Air Force and retired here, making it my home. I graduated from Elk Grove High School and received my Bachelor of Science Degree from Sacramento State in 1986. In my early career, I worked for small businesses and non-profit organizations, where I eventually worked my way up to management positions. In 1999, I began buying and flipping homes. I continue to flip and now run my own construction company.

What inspired you to start your business? 

My business is not just about buying homes, it’s about changing lives. I knew from an early age that I wanted to positively impact my community in lasting ways, on my own time and on my own terms. 

Where is your business based?

Sacramento, CA. 

How did you start your business? What were the first steps you took? 

Although I spent a lot of time researching and reading about what it takes to be a good business, I found that forming a strong team is one of the most important steps. My first two employees still work with me today, and I consider them as my family. Having a strong support system to grow and expand with is absolutely key.

What has been the most effective way of raising awareness for your business? 

Upholding authenticity, whether it be through the personal relationships I create, or through my online social media presence. Opening myself up to the people and forming real, meaningful connections in my community has allowed for my company to not only gain traction, but trust.  

What have been your biggest challenges and how did you overcome them?  

During the 2008 financial crisis, numerous foreclosures and defaults crashed the housing market. This decline set our business back, as we had to learn how to adjust new strategies accordingly. Despite it all, we kept believing and kept working hard with the vision of a brighter future. 

How do you stay focused?

Serving others remains my #1 mission. The idea that I have the ability to relieve people from tough situations through my profession keeps me extremely passionate and motivated to continue working and improving. 

How do you differentiate your business from the competition?  

I am local, trustworthy, and strive to create lasting friendships with those I do business with. I often receive personal acts of gratitude, whether it be a warm hug or kind words, as to how my services make people feel safe and secure for the next chapter of their lives. 

My ongoing honesty and integrity is truly unmatched, and I am proud to continue growing as Sacramento’s #1 Trusted Home Buyer. 

What has been your most effective marketing strategy to grow your business? 

Consistently engaging with my local community and maintaining a reliable presence. 

What's your best piece of advice for aspiring and new entrepreneurs?  

Always identify your end goal first, and work backwards on how you can achieve it. 

What's your favorite app, blog, and book? Why?

The Secret by Rhonda Byrne. Reading this book has helped me stay positive as well as understand the importance of manifestation. You can set your mind to achieving anything in life, as long as you hold good thoughts and intentions.  

What's your favorite business tool or resource? Why?

Due to COVID-19, my team and I have been heavily relying on Zoom to communicate. I love Zoom because it has allowed us to ensure that business can still operate in safe, effective ways. It is also extremely accessible for many to use and enhances communication with our clients from the comfort of their own homes.  

Who is your business role model? Why?  

Eleanor Roosevelt. I admire her ability to overcome whatever obstacles life put in her way. Despite Eleanor’s high status, she was driven by her values: forming true relationships and helping those in need. She found the strength to forge her own path and I hope to implement those same ideals in my everyday life.  

How do you balance work and life? 

I create a detailed schedule with a list of tasks prioritized in order. Organizing myself this way is extremely helpful in making sure I meet my deadlines.  

I also make sure to plan quality time with my family through traveling or road-trips. Additionally, always remembering to find time to check in with myself, my loved ones, and take a deep breath in times of adversity. Self-care goes a long way.

What’s your favorite way to decompress? 

Recently I have been learning Taekwondo. I have found it to be an extremely helpful way to revitalize my energy and keep me grounded. 

What do you have planned for the next six months? 

I’m extremely excited to announce that I recently published and will be launching my first book - Your Next Move: Housing Roadmap For Older Adults. I look forward to sharing tips and helping others through this new medium!

How can our readers connect with you?

You can find more information about me and my company on my website: laurelbuyshouses.com.