Some properties are special because of the numbers.
This one is special because it’s mine.
9382 Shadowood Dr, Unit G was the first home I ever purchased. It represents the beginning of my journey into homeownership, investing, and ultimately building long-term wealth through real estate.
The Beginning of My First Investment
When my wonderful stepmom came into my life, she quickly found out I was renting. As an avid and savvy businesswoman and real estate investor, she strongly objected. She believed deeply in homeownership as a wealth-building tool and wanted me to start participating in that as soon as possible.
She found this condo online. It was a total fixer.
Without hesitation, she purchased it as-is, sight unseen, at a great price. Then she invested about $50,000 into renovations. The property needed a new AC system, new flooring throughout, fresh interior paint, and completely updated kitchen and bathroom finishes.
Once the transformation was complete, I got pre-approved for a loan, and she sold the property to me — without making a dime on the deal. That’s simply the kind of person she is. Generous. Loving. Brilliant. She understood that giving me the opportunity to own property was far more valuable than any short-term profit.
Beyond real estate, I am incredibly blessed to have her as my stepmom.
Purchasing and Professional Transition
Escrow closed on July 2, 2021.
At the time, I was not yet working in residential real estate. I had purchased the condo on my own from another real estate agent before transitioning into residential sales professionally. Prior to that, I worked as a commercial property manager for a brokerage in Downtown Los Angeles.
During the year I lived in this condo, I made the transition into residential real estate sales — a move that ultimately shaped the direction of my career.
The Property Itself
This 2-bedroom, 1-bath condo is located directly across from Montclair Place, offering convenient access to shopping, dining, and entertainment. It also has quick access to the 10 Freeway, making commuting easy.
The layout is unique and functional. The front door is on the ground level, leading to an enclosed stairway shared with direct access from the two-car garage. The main living area sits upstairs on the second floor, creating privacy and separation from street level.
Highlights include:
Spacious living/great room with high ceilings
Cozy fireplace
Two large bedrooms
Huge balcony off the dining area — perfect for BBQs and entertaining
Direct-access two-car garage with laundry hookups
Plenty of visitor parking
Community amenities include a pool, spa, and tennis courts. The location is also just minutes from Cal Poly Pomona, University of La Verne, and The Claremont Colleges.
Turning It Into a Rental
After living there for about two years, I moved in with my fiancé. It was time for the condo to become what it was always meant to be — my first rental property.
I put the unit on the market for lease. It didn’t take long to find the right tenant. A great friend of a colleague happened to be searching for an affordable, well-maintained place near the Claremont Colleges. She fell in love with the condo immediately. It fit her life and work perfectly.
She signed the lease quickly and has been an excellent tenant ever since. She treats the property as if it were her own.
I personally manage the property — collecting rent, staying proactive, and resolving any rare maintenance issues. While I’m not making a large monthly profit, the mortgage is being paid down, equity is building, and I officially have my foot in the door as a rental property owner.
The Bigger Picture
This condo is more than just a property. It represents the start of my long-term retirement plan.
Real estate is not about overnight success. It’s about steady equity growth, smart leverage, and consistent opportunity. 9382 Shadowood Dr, Unit G was my first step.
And I fully intend for it to be the first of many.
Property Highlights
Address: 9382 Shadowood Dr, Unit G, Montclair, CA 91763
2 Bedrooms / 1 Bathroom
Direct Access 2-Car Garage
High Ceilings & Fireplace
Large Balcony
Community Pool, Spa & Tennis Courts
Near Montclair Place & The Claremont Colleges
Escrow Closed: July 2, 2021
Represented By Justin Eden
Justin specializes in:
Claremont, CA
Pomona, CA
La Verne, CA
Upland, CA
Glendora, CA
Chino Hills, CA
Rancho Cucamonga, CA
Whether you’re buying your first home or building a rental portfolio, the first step is often the most important one.