Thank You Lonnie Scruggs…

As I sit here at my computer, I am still shocked at the news of the sudden passing of Lonnie Scruggs ( aka “The Godfather” of mobile home investing). I was alerted of this sudden occurrence by my tweep, @NorthCuttPrint, (thank you!) here:

Lonnie was a great man and a good teacher. His teachings about money and how to make money work for you span the test of time and have changed so many people’s lives around the world. It’s not just about mobile home investing — the concept can be applied to anything.

Apart from his teachings, Lonnie had a lot of heart. My earliest memories of him were at my first couple of real estate investing conventions. I always remember him sitting in a chair surrounded by others sharing stories about his mobile home investing experiences. To me, it felt a bit like telling stories around a campfire.

Though, at this point in my real estate investing career I did not partake much as I couldn’t relate. At the time, I was still in the beginning stages and my focus had been wholesaling.

(Note: For those who missed it, I did an interview with my pal Shae where I talk about my journey with real estate investing. Thanks for reading!)

However, I knew who Lonnie was and had already read his course. My first experience with mobile home investing did not go quite so well. So, I abandoned the idea of pursuing it.

(Note: For more details, feel free to check out my book!)

It wasn’t until I had years of experience and became a landlord that I finally began to understand Lonnie’s teachings about learning how to make money work for me (instead of the other way around!). And, this is where my mobile home investing journey begins.

Lonnie Scruggs’ book, Deals on Wheels, really gave me a blueprint on exactly how mobile home investing works. It taught me the ins and outs of the business as well as the obstacles I may need to overcome.

It was a primer on a subject very unknown in the real estate investing world. And, to this day — I still have the original course (as well as the cassette tapes that came along with it!).

As I progressed with my mobile home investing experience, Lonnie was there to offer me with words of encouragement. I remember him telling me, “Rachel, you’re young and sprightly. You’ll do just fine.” Guess he was right!

Though, it just wasn’t about mobile home investing with Lonnie. We talked a bit about writing and what it’s like to become an author. At the time, I told him someday I’d like to share my experiences with the world and write a book.

He told me it wasn’t so glamourous. His book became a book due to all of the many folks who enjoyed his stories and teachings. And, he told me that was what it was all about — sharing experiences and helping others.

So with that, I’d like to personally thank Lonnie as well as the many mentors and teachers I’ve had in the past who have taught and shared their experiences with me. The time we’ve spent together is truly priceless and I’ve enjoyed every moment. Thank you for sharing your piece of the world with me.

Adieu, Lonnie Scruggs! Thank you for the memories. Onwards and upwards to our next adventure!

(Note: For those who were impacted by Lonnie Scruggs and his teachings, I’d be interested in hearing your thoughts. Thanks for sharing!)