explained trends he had identified so readers could capitalize on them. He also freely shared his research and data with Think Realty and the American Association of Private Lenders to benefit both real estate investors and lenders, Wilson said. “He was always there to support them, and that’s what made the greatest impact: He was coming from a place of extreme knowledge,” Wilson said. Aaron’s desire to support the industry aligned with the mission of both organizations, which made him a valuable resource. Wilson said Aaron would provide valuable feedback, both positive and constructive criticism, after Think Realty events and helped the organization refine its focus. While he loved to share his knowledge, Aaron understood there was always more to learn, said Craig Johnson, senior vice president of Think Realty’s President’s Circle. Johnson said the group, a mastermind gathering for the industry, recruited Aaron to join because his wealth of knowledge on legislative matters, economics, and market trends was extremely valuable and other members could learn from him. Considering what he would bring to the table, Johnson offered Aaron a reduced membership. Aaron’s reply was one Johnson said he’d never forget. “He did not accept the discount,” Johnson said. “He paid substantially more than what I offered him to join the club. … He demonstrated that he felt an obligation to pay his dues to be a member because of what he got out of it. He spelled out the fact that this group allowed him to be more involved from the legislative piece, to interact more with people, and gain more from these other people in the mastermind.”
he did spend a lot of time with me on the phone, talking through issues, bouncing ideas off one another.”
Despite his stature in the industry, Aaron continued to make time to be a sounding board, whether for the President’s Circle or individuals, Wilson said. “Aaron was extremely kind and extremely generous,” Wilson said. “Any time I texted him and said, ‘Hey, you have time for a conversation?’ he cleared stuff, he made room. That was really impactful because we all get busy. He understood that people was his purpose in life. So,
A KIND LANDLORD Aaron’s generosity was felt not only by his colleagues but also his tenants, said Carmen Fields Carter, managing editor of Think Realty magazine and a close friend of Aarons. As a real estate investor, Aaron’s main interest was in buy-and-hold properties. She
86 | think realty magazine :: september - october 2022
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