Meet Chad Rocke | Real Estate Agent | Investor | Mentor and Coach

We had the good fortune of connecting with Chad Rocke and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Chad, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Honestly, I just couldn’t stomach the idea that I could be doing everything right at a job and still get fired tomorrow. That lack of control over my own future didn’t sit well with me. I wanted to be my own boss, to build something on my terms, and to create a life where I didn’t have to depend on someone else for stability.

Starting my own business gave me that — control over my time, my income, and my future. I work 10 times harder now than I ever did at a job, but I actually enjoy it because I’m building something that matters to me. There’s no ceiling, no politics, no waiting for permission. And most importantly, there’s a clear path to financial freedom. That’s what keeps me going — knowing that all this effort is creating options for the future that a 9-to-5 never could.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I’m a real estate agent and lead agent on The FI Team, where I not only help buyers, sellers, and investors, but also mentor and coach new agents coming into the business. What sets me apart — and what I’m most proud of — is that my business is truly built on long-term relationships, education, and trust. Whether it’s someone buying their very first home or their fifth investment property, I see my role as a long-term partner, not a one-time transaction.

A big part of my focus is working with first- and second-time homebuyers who have an investment mindset. I help them understand how real estate can create long-term, generational wealth — especially through strategies like house hacking. Buying a home and renting part or all of it to offset or eliminate the mortgage is one of the most powerful ways to build passive income and financial independence. My passion is educating people on these opportunities and helping them take action.

Getting to this point wasn’t easy. I’ve built my business from the ground up through a lot of hard work, consistency, and trial and error. I always tell new agents: success isn’t complicated — do what you say you’re going to do, follow up, add value, and over-communicate. Those simple habits go a long way.

Some of the biggest lessons I’ve learned? Don’t spread yourself too thin. Focus on one thing you enjoy and do it well. Build a team around you — real estate isn’t a solo sport. Always keep the long-term in mind: make decisions with a 10-year lens, not a 10-day one. And don’t chase shiny objects. Just do the work, stay consistent, and keep your head down.

What I want people to know is this: real estate, whether as an investment or just buying a home, is a game changer. It can set your future — and your family’s future — on a completely different path. It’s not always easy, but it’s worth it. I’ve been investing for over 10 years, I’ve made mistakes and learned from them, and now I get to help others avoid those same pitfalls. I’m not just your agent — I’m your teammate in building the life you want.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Day 1 – Welcome to Denver

Afternoon: Start with a laid-back walk through City Park to soak in the skyline and mountain views.

Evening: Grab Detroit-style pies at Blue Pan Pizza, then catch Jazz in the Park (summer Sundays) for a chill local vibe with wine, friends, and live music.

Day 2 – Beer + Neighborhoods

Morning: Coffee and breakfast in RiNo.

Afternoon: Brewery hop at Cerebral Brewing and the new Knotted Root location in Denver (super exciting they finally opened here).

Evening: Head to Little Man Ice Cream in LoHi for dessert with a view of downtown at golden hour.

Day 3 – Day Trip to Morrison + Foothills

Lunch: Wings at Willie’s Wings in Morrison — messy, perfect, unforgettable.

Afternoon: Short hike or Red Rocks stroll depending on the season.

Evening: Dinner in Golden or back in Denver for something casual.

Day 4 – Mountains Bound: Drive to Breckenridge

Morning: Head out early, stopping in Bailey for a scenic mountain drive and quick hike or coffee.

Afternoon: Arrive in Breckenridge, check into a cabin or lodge, and explore Main Street.

Evening: Cozy dinner in town and hot tub under the stars.

Day 5 – Ski or Snowboard in Breck (Winter)

All Day: Hit the slopes at Breckenridge Resort — it’s my favorite in Colorado for the terrain, energy, and charm.

Evening: Après ski in town or at your rental with drinks and board games.

Day 6 – Summit County Breweries + Frisco

Afternoon: Swing by Outer Range Brewing in Frisco — top-notch hazy IPAs and a great mountain setting.

Optional: Snowshoeing, tubing, or just relaxing in a local café or brewery.

Evening: Casual dinner in Frisco or Breck.

Day 7 – Head Back + Golf If It’s Summer

Morning: Drive back toward Denver

Afternoon (if it’s summer): Tee time at Arrowhead Golf Course or City Park Golf Course for stunning backdrops

Evening: Final cheers back in Denver — maybe hit Knotted Root one last time or relax at a rooftop bar downtown.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
If I had to give a shoutout to the people who helped shape my journey, I’d start back at my very first property in Milwaukee. My parents were right there with me — helping clean, move in, and furnish the home. That kind of hands-on support, especially when you’re just starting out, makes all the difference.

Making the leap from a steady 9–5 paycheck to a full-time commission-based career in real estate was terrifying. At the time, my wife was pregnant, and despite all the uncertainty, she believed in me. She understood the sacrifices that would come with that transition — and still today, she supports the late nights, weekend showings, and everything this career demands. I wouldn’t have had the courage to take that step without her.

I also have to credit BiggerPockets for being such a huge source of knowledge and community. Through it, I connected with Craig Curelop — his guidance and inspiration have been foundational in getting me where I am today.

And finally, I’d be remiss not to shout out Julie on our team. She’s absolutely instrumental in keeping things running smoothly and supporting the business behind the scenes. None of this is done alone, and I’m lucky to have a team — and a family — that makes it all possible.

Website: https://www.thefiteam.com/team/chad-rocke/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rocketherealtor/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chadrockerealtorinvestor/