Real estate is about more than just property; it's about the people and the purpose behind the portfolio. This month, we are continuing our series to highlight the incredible people who make the Milwaukee REIA possible.

We are thrilled to feature Kesha Wilkinson, a dedicated member who perfectly balances a passion for "Active Starting" with a unique professional background in horticulture and holistic wellness.

The Strategy: Building with Purpose and Passion

For Kesha, real estate isn’t just a career; it’s a mission to restore the city she loves. She describes herself as an "Active Starter," currently navigating the 1–3 deal range while diligently building the systems that will scale her business.

Kesha’s core strategy is the BRRRR method (Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, Repeat), with a hyper-focus on Milwaukee County. Her "why" is rooted in community standards and tenant advocacy:

"It breaks my heart to see the condition of MKE and how some landlords treat their tenants," Kesha shares. "I want to be a part of rebuilding my city and providing clean and safe housing."

Her "ideal deal" right now is specific and strategic: duplexes in the 53210 and 53216 zip codes. She looks for properties where she can tackle the big items—plumbing and electrical—rather than just a "lipstick" renovation. Her target is a total cost (purchase and rehab) of $200k for duplexes or $300k for 4-plexes, with a preference for the classic Milwaukee layout: two bedrooms downstairs and one upstairs.

The REIA Connection: Why Networking is a Team Sport

Kesha’s journey into real estate was sparked by a massive "win"—purchasing her very first investment property with no money down. Since joining the REIA, she has found that the community provides more than just data; it provides a tribe. When asked about her most valuable connection, Kesha doesn't hesitate to point to her peers:

"My goal is being a Co-Owner for a 100 to 300-unit apartment building! I want to partner up with investors wanting larger unit apartment buildings."

For those attending their very first Tuesday meeting, Kesha offers simple but powerful advice: Talk to and meet as many people as you can. She believes the REIA is a place where giving back is just as important as getting ahead. In fact, she has set a goal for the community to hold her accountable to: pivoting her focus toward Midterm Leases.

"I would love to serve as a host for midterm leases for some of our REIA members at a discount," she says. "I want to give back all that the REIA has given to me."

Beyond the Blueprint: Gardens and Tea

What many of her fellow investors might not know is that Kesha is just as comfortable in a garden as she is at a closing table. She is a professional gardener and owner of a gardening consulting and tea business. She helps people start and maintain their own gardens and creates handcrafted organic loose-leaf teas to address various health issues.

When she isn't analyzing deals or blending teas, you can find her enjoying the best of Milwaukee—tasting her way through local wine bars or soaking up the music at Summerfest.

The "Haves & Wants" (Kesha’s Personal Ask)

• Haves: Mid Term Rental Hosting - If you have a property but need an expert to manage the experience or operations, give Kesha a call!

• Wants: looking for duplexes (2-bed down/1-bed up) or 1-bedroom fourplexes in 53210 or 53216 in any condition, with an all-in budget of $200k for duplexes or $300k for 4-plexes. If you have a lead that fits these criteria, please reach out to her at the next meeting!

Are you ready to build your network like Kesha? Don't just attend the meeting—be a part of it. We are looking for volunteers to help us make the Milwaukee REIA the best it can be.

  Sign Up For Volunteering!