We KNOW Why We Are Here.......
Interview Question: What Did You Find of Value in Joining NIBDA?
Tom Peterson (Rockford):
I joined NIBDA to further my education in real estate investing and to network with other active real estate investors. As an active investor with 15 to 20 years experience in investing in real estate, at one time I thought I knew it all. Today, I realize that was very short sighted. The skills and strategies I have learned and continue to learn have improved my bottom line.
If you are reading this and trying to decide if our group is right for you, please check us out. You will find knowledgeable, hard working business owners willing to help you become profitable and successful.
Patti & Dave Puckett (Belvidere):

My degrees were in Restaurant/Hotel Management AND as a Chef. I had a resume of experience that was colorful & creative. I earned a Silver Medal in International competition, cooked a private dinner for June Carter and Johnny Cash, spent months in Atlanta, Ga working as a cook for the Atheletes, Coaches & Dignitaries at the 1996 Summer Olympics and much more. 10 years ago I began searching for something different. This uneasiness led to carving out a very successful career in Real Estate as first a Realtor then a Broker. Millions of dollars in home sales later again I was searching, this time because I had intended on becoming a Broker and learning the ropes of real estate investing. I yearned to achieve the wealth & success of friends I knew ,that had acquired their status through real estate investing. Earning a license to sell real estate does not provide for an education in strategies; in fact its primarily law that is learned during this process. My husband worked in excavating/truck driving/building (both residential & commercial) for the past 20 years. In April of 2008 he had completed training his much younger and cheaper replacement! (unknowingly) He found himself one morning moving from a $38.00/hr job to the ranks of unemployed. Now what? in the economic collapse that was underway in this country? Where do you go to find the right education? a mentor? someone who will teach us the ropes? 2 years ago a local friend and banker (in Rockford, IL) introduced me to a community of "like-minded" individuals.(it had not yet been officially named: NIBDA) The personal growth, knowledge, expertise and leadership that I have gained is worth a MILLION DOLLARS and yet, it has been a minimal investment into my education that has been worth every penny. This group of business owners are some of the "creme de la creme" in integrity, HEART, & experience. They (WE) genuinely believe in PAYING it FORWARD! I cannot imagine my life without them and the "stinkin thinkin" that often was "noise" in my head, has been replaced with peace & purpose. I will never ever have to even consider working for someone else. I am FREE, We are FREE-- truly FREE as a citizen, neighbor, business owner,& friend. It is our mission to assist as many people that cross our path-- with gaining theirs!
Michael Cruz :(Rochelle)
I chose to join NIBDA because I had never met a group of individuals so passionate about assisting me and collaborating with me in order to help me be successful in my business. NIBDA has played an important role in my business and I will forever be greatful for what they have contributed to my life and my business. The education (in real estate investing) and their network of investors have been invaluable! You can get education anywhere, but with NIBDA it's the people and their networks that make the difference. If you are serious about being successful in life AND business, the solution is clear! Northern Illinois Business Development Association, there is no other!
Michael R. Cruz
CEO/Founder
Cruz Capital Partners, INC.
Gerald Baresel 
(Marengo)
I became a member of NIBDA to learn more about real estate. I thought I knew about real estate investing but in the short period of time that I have been involved with NIBDA I have learned a lot more than I ever thought possible.
I have been in the construction field for over 35 years. We had a family General Contractor business for over 20 years which gave me experience in being an entrepreneur, but since I became a member of NIBDA I have learned so much more about leadership.
I made a change in my life and it has been a good change for the knowledge that I have gained by being around all the different people involved with NIBDA. If I ever need help with anything there is always someone available to help me.
Gerry Baresel
Joe McKinney
Rochelle, IL
"Surrounding myself with amazing individuals was an opportunity I could not pass up. These local business leaders are establishing an environment of dedication, perseverance, and collaboration to assist me in my ventures. As an elementary educator for the past 5 years, I have experienced how financial education is not a priority in this area. The next generation is heading into a hurting economy without vital tools to help. This is where networking with fellow NIBDA members is key to overcoming this economic hurdle."