Making it in Real Estate: Thriving as a Developer

'The best real estate book I have read — I recommend it to everyone, novice and veteran, in the industry.' — Lucas Joseph

John McNellis learned real estate the hard way: deal by deal, burn by burn, over 40 years and 100+ commercial projects. He wrote the practical field guide he wished existed when he started — the book that might also talk you out of starting at all.

Now in its third edition with 34 new chapters, Making It in Real Estate covers the full development lifecycle — buying right, managing risk, navigating city hall, structuring partnerships, chasing yield, surviving downturns, and building lasting wealth. Every chapter drawn from real deals and real consequences.

NEW: Seven unflinching case studies of McNellis's worst losses, with real numbers attached. Seven chapters on property management — the discipline that makes or breaks a real estate investment. Ten contrarian essays on housing, construction, all-electric mandates, earthquake risk, and the future of retail.

Plus a comprehensive glossary demystifying real estate law, finance, and industry jargon. (Also available as a supplemental PDF to the audio edition).

McNellis can swiftly cut to the chase to explain what works, what doesn't, and why. His writing is insightful, full of wit, and grounded in the kind of experience that turns a good book into an indispensable one.

For aspiring developers, working professionals, investors, and anyone who appreciates great writing about a tough, fascinating business.