Blog - DealMachine for Real Estate Investing

How the Profit First Method Helps Avoid Burnout

Written by Maria Tresvalles | Aug 23, 2025 10:15:00 AM

Growing a business takes time, energy, and sacrifice, but does it have to cost you your personal life?

Many entrepreneurs chase success while struggling to stay connected with their families or take care of themselves.

In this blog, we share the real stories of Aaron Gaunt, a former firefighter turned real estate investor. You’ll learn how he built profitable businesses using smart systems, implemented the building simple yet strong business systems, and protected his time for what matters most; family, values, and personal freedom.

Whether you’re just starting in real estate or scaling fast, this article will show you how to succeed without burning out.

Watch the full interview below to see how to build thriving businesses without sacrificing what matters most.

Business Systems for Real Estate Growth

Aaron Gaunt shared how building simple yet strong business systems allowed him to grow without stress or chaos.

Aaron explained his wholesale real estate business model, which includes inside sales reps (ISAs) who book appointments and outside reps who meet sellers in person. To maintain high performance, they hold daily training sessions and role-playing exercises.

“Simple Scales, Fancy Fails” Strategy

Aaron shared a simple but powerful philosophy: “Simple scales, fancy fails.” In other words, systems only work if they’re easy to follow and repeat.

He focuses on efficient processes, not flashy, because that’s what lasts as the business grows.

Financial Strategies for Real Estate Entrepreneurs

Aaron said that money management is key to long-term success. Without a financial strategy, growth can quickly turn into burnout.

Using the Profit First Method in Real Estate

Aaron shared how he implemented the  Profit First method from day one. With this system, a portion of all income is set aside as profit before expenses are paid.

This helps business owners avoid overspending and always stay in the green.

Balancing Revenue and Profit Margins

He aims to maintain 30–40% profit margins as his business scales. He’d rather have a stable, healthy business than chase high revenue with no profits.

His approach shows that sustainable growth is smarter than fast growth.

The “Raise, Then Slash” Spending Cycle

He also talked about a pattern many business owners face: “Raise expenses, slash expenses.” When testing new ideas or hires, it’s okay to increase spending but once you see what’s working, trim the fat.

It’s all about testing, learning, and refining.

How Real Estate Pros Balance Business and Family

Success isn’t just about numbers. It’s also about being present at home, with your kids, and in your personal life.

Core Values in Real Estate and Parenting

Aaron shared how real estate changed his family’s life. Coming from a modest background, he now sends his kids to private school and spends more quality time with them.

He follows core values in both parenting and business:

  • Growth-mindedness

  • Competitive greatness

  • Extreme ownership

These values keep his team and family grounded, motivated, and focused on what matters.

Hiring Help to Buy Back Time

He shared a tip many entrepreneurs overlook: buying back your time. For $140 per visit, he hires help to handle laundry, dishes, and home tasks twice a week.

This saves him 3–4 hours weekly. The time he used to grow his business or enjoy life with his family.

Conclusion

Success doesn’t have to mean working nonstop or choosing between your business and your personal life. As Aaron Gaunt shows, real estate entrepreneurs can build thriving, profitable businesses by:

  • Creating smart systems

  • Managing money with intention

  • Living by clear values

  • Prioritizing time and relationships

When you focus on what matters and simplify where it counts, you can build wealth in real estate without burning out.

FAQ: Real Estate Entrepreneurs & Business Balance

What systems help real estate entrepreneurs grow?

Daily sales training and simplified business processes help real estate entrepreneurs scale efficiently without losing control.

What is the Profit First method in real estate investing?

It’s a financial strategy where a percentage of revenue is set aside as profit before covering expenses. This method helps business owners stay profitable and disciplined.

How can real estate professionals avoid burnout?

By setting clear boundaries, hiring help, delegating the tasks with the team, and simplifying systems. Staying focused on core values also helps entrepreneurs stay energized and fulfilled.

What’s a good profit margin for a real estate wholesaler?

Successful wholesalers aim for 30–40% profit margins to ensure growth without sacrificing financial stability.

Do I need a sales background to start a real estate business?

No. Many real estate investors, like Aaron Gaunt, started with zero sales experience and grew through tools like DealMachine and consistent training.