Meet Eric Nelson | Real Estate Investor

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

Hi Eric, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
I got into real estate investing with one goal in mind: creating a better work-life balance. The idea of spending 30+ years tied to a desk before finally getting to enjoy life just didn’t sit right with me. Getting started took a lot of hard work, patience, and persistence — but now I have the balance I was chasing. I still work, of course, but it’s on my own terms. I have the freedom to travel with my wife and kids and live life in a way my old career never could’ve offered.

To me, balance equites to being able to live a life unrestricted by my business while still having the opportunity to grow it. That’s only possible with the right team, solid processes, and systems that keep things running smoothly.

What should our readers know about your business?
I run two businesses that reflect the same mission: building strong foundations, creating value, and helping others do the same. Wild Oak Capital is my real estate investing company, where we focus on multifamily deals and operate with integrity, transparency, and long-term partnerships. Eric Nelson Coaching is where I get to support other investors through coaching and a mastermind community — helping them gain clarity, close deals, and grow with purpose.

What sets me apart is that I bring my personal values into everything I do — honesty, generosity, and a genuine care for people. I’m not driven by quick wins, but by meaningful results and lasting impact. Getting here wasn’t easy; I started this journey to create more freedom and balance in my own life. It took work, patience, and a strong support system to get here. Some of the biggest lessons I’ve learned: surround yourself with the right people, don’t skip on systems and processes, and always stay rooted in your values.

I’m most excited about new market opportunities and celebrating the wins of those I work with. At the end of the day, this work is about people — and I’m proud to be building something that reflects that.

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.
This one’s tough – travel is a huge part of our life. My 5 year old has already been to 16 countries (and counting). I’ve always believed in spending money on memories, not things, so most of our budget and time off goes toward exploring the world.

That said, the ideal trip really depends on the friend. Since we’re currently living in Spain, I’d say a getaway to Costa Brava (just north of Barcelona) would be perfect for almost anyone. Clear water, laid-back vibes, and incredible food. Lately, I’ve been leaning into a slower pace, so I’d start the day with breakfast at a street-side café, sipping really good coffee. Then we’d head to the water for some sun and swimming.

In Spain, lunch is the main event, so we’d go for tapas. I love tortilla (eggs and potatoes) and pan con tomate (good bread with smashed tomatoes). Afterward, we might cruise up the coast for a change of scenery and another swim. Dinner doesn’t happen until around 9:30 or 10 here, so we’d keep it light and settle into a plaza somewhere for a little people-watching.

If they had a full week, we’d repeat this rhythm a few times and mix in a trip to Barcelona – an incredible city full of art, stunning architecture, great food, a buzzing beach scene, and of course, incredible night life- if the person visiting enjoys that.

We live in a small town just outside the city with a beautiful beach, so we’d definitely spend at least one day wandering around locally and soaking up the sun.

Another day would take us north into wine country (only about 20 minutes away) for wine tasting and a long, delicious lunch. Paella has really grown on me, and since it’s traditionally a lunch dish, that would be the perfect meal to pair with a day of tastings.

And one day would be for hiking the coast, dipping into hidden beaches along the way and packing a simple lunch. The bread here is incredible, so bread and cheese for the hike would be a must.

They would go home full and happy- and a bit tired.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My journey has been anything but a solo effort, and I’m incredibly grateful for the people who’ve helped shape it.

First and foremost, my wife Marie deserves a huge shoutout. Her support, patience, and encouragement through the ups and downs has meant everything. I also have to credit my partners at Wild Oak Capital — none of this would be possible without the collaboration, trust, and shared vision we’ve built together. In the last few years, I have had a few amazing assistants- and I even hesitate to call them that. They are more like partners or a COO. Kristen, and most recently Brittany have changed my world. Having someone I can trust with details is beyond helpful.

Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of learning from some incredible mentors and coaches who challenged me, sharpened my thinking, and helped me grow — both personally and professionally. And honestly, every person I’ve crossed paths with who added value, even in small ways, deserves recognition. From clients to colleagues to conversations that sparked an idea — it’s all mattered.

This journey has truly been a team effort, and I’m beyond thankful for the incredible people in my sphere.

Website: https://www.ericnelsoncoaching.com

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