From Burning Out to Breakthrough: My Journey to Find Time Freedom

“I started CARE because I believe people deserve to experience the freedom of time — to pursue what matters most, unlock their full potential, and live life on their own terms.”

Chad Ackerman – CARE Founder

The Struggle You Might Recognize

I didn’t start out as a real estate expert. For most of my career, I worked in corporate HR—successful on paper, but I was beginning to feel burned out and restless. I knew there had to be a better way to create freedom, both for my family and for myself.

That search led to a pivotal conversation with a friend about building multiple income streams. I dove into real estate investing—podcasts, books, webinars—soaking up everything I could. 

My first passive investment was in a 17-story building in downtown Cleveland, Ohio. Not exactly a small step, but it opened my eyes to the possibilities of building a passive cash flow system that could one day replace my W2 income.

Burn the Ships

I realized that to scale, I needed more capital. 

So, I made a bold move: I liquidated my 401(k) and redirected it into passive real estate investments. It was a risk, but it paid off. 

Those investments started producing the cash flow and stability I’d been looking for. Within just a couple of years, I had the freedom to leave the corporate world and focus on building a business and a life on my own terms.

“I traded my 401(k) for my freedom. A few years later, I was out of my W2 and building wealth on my own terms.”

Developing Community

In 2020, I co-founded Left Field Investors, a community dedicated to educating and connecting passive investors. Over the years, I helped hundreds of people get started, grow their portfolios, and build confidence. 

Eventually, we sold the business to BiggerPockets, where it was rebranded to PassivePockets. Then, I shifted my focus to giving back in a more personal way.

Giving Back with CARE

That’s how CARE—Chad Ackerman Real Estate—was born. 

Today, I coach busy professionals who want to explore real estate investing but don’t have the time or desire to become landlords. 

Through webinars, workshops, and one-on-one coaching, I help clients define their investor identity, vet opportunities, and take action with confidence.

I believe you don’t have to be a finance expert to succeed in this industry—you just need a clear plan, the right knowledge, and a guide who’s been there. 

I’ve made my fair share of mistakes so you don’t have to.  If my journey taught me anything, it’s that freedom starts with taking the first step. For me, that first step led to time freedom—the ability to choose how I spend my days, focus on what matters most, and live life on my terms. 

That’s the freedom I want to help you find.

CARE’s mission is to guide successful professionals who are new to passive investing — helping them avoid common mistakes, build confidence, and create the time freedom to focus on what matters most.

TESTIMONIALS

What sets CARE apart is Chad’s personal journey. He’s been where I am—juggling a career, trying to build wealth on the side. His story inspired me to stop procrastinating and start learning. Now I’m an active LP and part of a community that truly supports each other.
Sophia L.HR Professional
What I loved most was how approachable everything felt. Chad breaks things down in a way that makes sense, and there's never any pressure. CARE isn’t about selling you something—it’s about helping you grow into the kind of investor you want to be.
Elena G.Creative Director
CARE gave me more than just information—it gave me direction. I’m investing for my kids’ future, and I needed to feel sure about every step. Chad helped me align my strategy with my values and build a plan I actually believe in.
Marcus B.IT Consultant & Dad of Three
I always thought real estate investing was too complex for someone like me. But working with CARE helped me cut through the noise and actually take action. Chad’s coaching gave me the confidence and clarity to invest in my first deal—and I’m already planning my next one!
Jamie R.Marketing Executive
Chad took the time to understand my goals and helped me build a personal strategy around them. I went from sitting on the sidelines to feeling like I have a real plan. Thanks to CARE, I now understand how to spot the right investments and avoid the wrong ones.
David M.Engineer & Father of Two
I had the capital and interest, but not the confidence. CARE helped me develop my investor identity and taught me how to vet deals properly. The coaching calls held me accountable and made it real. I'm no longer just dreaming about passive income—I'm living it.
Jim D.CEO

Passive Investing 101: A Quick Start Guide for LPs

Build Wealth with CARE™ – Coaching for Passive Real Estate Investors

What Is Passive Real Estate Investing?

Passive investing means putting your money to work in professionally managed real estate deals—without being a landlord. You invest, then collect returns while someone else does the work.

  • Hands-off approach
  • Invest in large-scale assets (multifamily, self-storage, etc.)
  • Earn cash flow, appreciation, and tax benefits
  • Ideal for busy professionals seeking long-term wealth

How a Real Estate Syndication Works

The Deal is Formed

An experienced General Partner (GP) finds, funds, and manages the deal.

Investors Join In

Limited Partners (LPs) (like you) provide capital to help purchase the asset.

You Get Paid

You receive distributions (monthly/quarterly income), tax benefits, and a share of profits at exit.

Why People Choose This Path

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