Carl Medearis is an accomplished real estate investor and land developer based in Elizabeth, Colorado. With a rich background that started in Oregon and continued through Nebraska and Colorado, Carl brings a unique perspective to his work, shaped by a deep-rooted family commitment to faith and integrity. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in History followed by a graduate degree in Education from the University of Colorado in Colorado Springs.
Professionally, Carl has made a name for himself in the real estate sector by adeptly transforming complex deals into profitable and sustainable ventures. His approach goes beyond mere profit, focusing on creating developments that add lasting value to communities. Carl is also known for his strategic thinking and his ability to see potential where others might not.
Outside of his professional life, Carl is passionate about woodworking, golf, swimming, and staying active through hunting and fishing. He finds these activities essential for maintaining balance and well-being. Carl is a family man, devoted to his wife Christine of over 38 years, their three adult children, and enjoys the company of his grandchildren.
What is your typical day, and how do you make it productive?
My days are quite dynamic given the nature of real estate investment and development. I start early with some physical exercise, which is crucial for keeping my energy levels up throughout the day. The rest of my day is a mix of site visits, planning meetings, and discussions with clients or my team. To stay productive, I prioritize tasks based on urgency and impact, which helps me manage the complexities of my projects effectively.
How do you bring ideas to life?
I bring ideas to life by looking at the potential in land and properties that others might overlook. It involves a lot of creativity and envisioning what could be built there. I then gather a team of experts to help refine these ideas into viable development plans that we can execute.
What’s one trend that excites you?
I’m excited by sustainable development trends. The push towards more environmentally friendly and sustainable building practices not only aligns with my personal values but also represents a significant area of growth and opportunity within the real estate sector.
What is one habit that helps you be productive?
Staying active is my go-to habit for maintaining productivity. Whether it’s a morning swim or a round of golf, keeping physically active helps me stay sharp, focused, and ready to tackle the challenges of the day.
What advice would you give your younger self?
I would advise my younger self to worry less and take more risks. The path to success isn’t straight, and the fears we let build up often are far worse than the reality of trying and failing.
Tell us something you believe almost nobody agrees with you on?
I believe that not setting strict goals can sometimes be more beneficial than the rigid adherence to them. This allows for more flexibility and creativity in seizing opportunities as they arise, which is especially useful in real estate.
What is the one thing you repeatedly do and recommend everyone else do?
I recommend everyone spend time outdoors, disconnected from the digital world. Whether it’s fishing, hunting, or simply a walk in nature, it’s crucial for mental health and maintaining a balanced perspective.
When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?
I go back to basics: exercise, healthy eating, good sleep, and staying grounded in my spiritual practices. This holistic approach helps recalibrate my mind and body.
What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business or advance in your career?
Networking has been pivotal. Building strong relationships within the community and industry has opened doors to opportunities that I would not have found otherwise.
What is one failure in your career, how did you overcome it, and what lessons did you take away from it?
One significant failure was a project that went over budget and schedule due to unforeseen complications. I overcame this by renegotiating terms with stakeholders and refining our project management processes. The key lesson was always to have contingency plans and maintain transparent communication with all parties involved.
What is one business idea you’re willing to give away to our readers?
Consider developing mixed-use properties in small towns. Many small towns are revitalizing their main streets and downtown areas, combining residential and commercial spaces, which can be a great opportunity for real estate developers.
What is one piece of software that helps you be productive? How do you use it?
I rely on project management software like Trello. It helps keep track of different projects, deadlines, and tasks that need to be managed across various teams, keeping everyone aligned and accountable.
Do you have a favorite book or podcast you’ve gotten a ton of value from and why?
I enjoy listening to the “How I Built This” podcast. It offers insights into the journeys of entrepreneurs and business leaders, providing not only inspiration but also practical advice that can be applied in my own ventures.
What’s a movie or series you recently enjoyed and why?
I recently enjoyed “Yellowstone” for its depiction of land and legacy, which resonates deeply with my profession and personal interests. The drama around family and land ownership is compelling and offers a great escape at the end of a busy day.
Key learnings
- Flexibility in Goal Setting
- Value of Physical and Mental Well-being
- Networking and Community Engagement