Martina Taylor is the founder and Senior Managing Partner of Baltimore Property Partners, a real estate company that is focused on helping to buy real estate and building better communities in Maryland.

Can you tell our readers about your background?

I moved to the United States from Sierra Leone at a young age in search of better opportunities.  My background is in Cybersecurity. For my studies,  I have a Bachelor’s in Computer Science and a Master’s in Engineering with a focus in Cybersecurity, both from Morgan State University. Currently, I am pursuing a doctorate degree in Business Administration.

What inspired you to start your business?

As a Marylander who has lived in different cities in Maryland for the last thirteen years, I have always been in the business of serving people. I worked as a caregiver for almost six years, taking care of the elderly. It was through the desire of making a difference that I first found my passion for real estate investments.

Where is your business based?

We are based in Rockville, Maryland 

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

Before starting my business, I did a lot of research and attended many business and networking events,  real estate seminars, masterminds, and conferences to meet people who were already in the business and learn as much as I could from them. It also helped build my network and my business as some of those people have become mentors and business partners. 

Next, I registered the business in my state and got a business license.

Then I created a logo, bought a domain name, and built a website.

Next, I got a business email and phone number.

Then I started marketing the business.

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

Digital marketing: Social media marketing and SEO has been a game-changer for my real estate business.

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

My biggest challenge has been my expectations of other people. I had to learn the hard way that I shouldn’t always expect to get the best of other people. I have overcome that challenge by signing contracts for many things in my business. People can deny what they said but if you use the proper route, they cannot deny their signature.

How do you stay focused?

I meditate. I write down my goals and review them on a daily basis. I also create to-do lists.

How do you differentiate your business from the competition?

My business always offers something more. Also, people love stress-free services and convenience, so we work to ensure that we are giving the best service.

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

Digital marketing: Social media and Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

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

Start. Believe You Can. Work Hard. Pray Harder and be patient. Businesses don't become successful overnight.

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

Rich Dad, Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki. It changed my mindset and inspired me to start my business.

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

Elite RESS. It is a real estate software tool that I use to search for properties and start marketing campaigns.

Who is your business role model? Why?

Jay Z. What I admire about him is that he continues to expand his portfolio to include investments inside and outside of music. As a business person, I think that he is an inspiration to my generation of entrepreneurs.  

How do you balance work and life?

I manage my time well and I have a great support system. I like to work early in the day and after a certain time, I become unavailable for work and business to have time for myself, my family, and friends.

What’s your favorite way to decompress?

I love to watch comedy movies and shows. I also take mini-vacations (weekend getaways) when I can.

What do you have planned for the next six months?

I am always looking for new ways to grow my business. So the next six months, I will be trying out new marketing strategies, buying more properties, and building my portfolio.

How can our readers connect with you?

 Email: matay@bpphomebuyers.com

Website: www.bpphomebuyers.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BaltimorePropertyHomeBuyers

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/baltimore-property-partners/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/BppHomebuyers