Mastering Real Estate with Candice Amundson: Balancing Adventure, Business, and Family

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All right, welcome back to The Daily Mastermind. George Wright III here with your daily dose of inspiration, motivation, and education. I’ve got a good friend—someone that I’ve gotten to know really well and an amazing person—on the podcast today. So, I’m excited to have you here, Candace. How are you?

I’m good. Thanks for having me.

Yeah, listen, I want to give a little background on you, but for those tuning in, our goal is always to give you that daily dose of inspiration and education. More importantly, I want to share techniques, strategies, and tactics that you can use, and that’s exactly what we’re going to do today.

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Candace’s Background and Real Estate Journey

Let me give you a little bit of Candace’s background. Candace is an investor and realtor in the Twin Cities. She specializes in vacation and short-term rentals. She provides personalized, data-driven advice and employs strong negotiation skills to help her clients achieve their goals.

As a single mother to a 13-year-old—and a dog, I would add—Candace embraces adventure. She’s an outdoors person, but she also has a ton of experience and resilience when it comes to business and real estate. I’m super glad to have you here today. Candace, would you mind sharing a little about your background so people can get an idea of where you’re from, what you’ve been doing, and what led you into this niche in real estate?

Yeah, absolutely. I was born and raised in Minnesota. I’ve always been into outdoor activities—hiking, biking, canoeing, and winter sports—so naturally, I love to travel and explore. That passion for travel led me to real estate.

Right now, I help people in Minnesota buy and sell real estate, but real estate has also introduced me to the short-term rental and vacation market. Traveling myself, I’ve been able to experience luxury amenities and understand the nuances of being an investor. I’ve taken those insights and gotten creative with clients here in the Twin Cities area.

Recently, I’ve expanded beyond Minnesota, helping people across the U.S. understand what it takes to succeed in the hospitality business. I think my adventurous spirit has naturally played a role in shaping my approach to real estate.

Yeah, so your passion for adventure led you into this niche. That’s awesome.

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Balancing Business and Family Life

Now, as a single mom and entrepreneur, how have you been able to balance the demands of your business and family life while continuing to grow your investments? What’s your secret?

I would say scheduling everything—including non-negotiables—and treating them as appointments.

For example, dinner with my son is an appointment. No one knows that it’s dinner; they just see that my calendar is blocked off. That time goes in first.

Next, I color-coordinate my schedule so that I’m doing the most important tasks when I have the best energy—usually in the morning. That’s when I handle lead generation, follow-ups, and other high-value activities.

You have to be disciplined. If something comes up, you have to decide: Am I saying yes to this? And if so, what am I saying no to? That mindset helps me stay focused on my goals.

I love that. Over time, people talk about being busy versus productive. I think your calendar is a great indicator of both your success and drive. A lot of people think they need open blocks of time, but I like to fill my calendar first and then prioritize as things come up. I completely agree with your approach.

For those listening, notice what she said—she fills in the important things first, then schedules everything else around them. That’s a great success principle.

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The Art of Networking and Connecting

Now, you’re known as a connector, right? There are a lot of people who network, but you take it to another level. Can you share how you’ve turned that skill into income? Because I know a lot of people who are great at networking and have strong relationships, but they struggle to monetize it. How have you been able to turn that into passive income and business growth?

Yeah, absolutely. I’ve always been focused on education, learning, and growing. I listen to a lot of podcasts, and if I find someone who stands out—someone doing something unique—I reach out and message them. That’s how I create partnerships with people I believe are doing extraordinary things.

Sometimes, these people have completely different strengths than I do. Other times, they have a creative mindset that complements my own. Once that relationship is established, opportunities naturally arise—whether through real estate investments, referrals, or other collaborations.

I also attract a lot of people who own Airbnbs. Many of the strategies I share can be applied anywhere, so when they start seeing success, they often want to buy more real estate. That’s when they need a realtor, and since I’ve already built trust, I’m usually the first person they turn to. In cases where I can’t personally help them, I connect them with other professionals I trust.

It’s really about continuously finding great partners—whether through podcasts, social media, or industry events—and fostering those relationships.

Yeah, and you do a phenomenal job at that. I want to highlight something you said because I always tell our listeners that success leaves clues. You mentioned a key word—‘attract.’ You attract opportunities through relationships, rather than just chasing them.

A lot of people understand that relationships are important, but the ability to attract opportunities through those relationships is what sets you apart. That’s something people need to pay attention to.

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Real Estate and Investment Strategies

Let’s talk about real estate for a minute. What are some of the biggest misconceptions people have when they enter the short-term rental market? A lot of people see it as a shiny new opportunity, but what are the common mistakes you see investors make?

One of the biggest misconceptions is around zoning and regulations. Many people don’t fully understand what they can and can’t do in a particular market—or how to pivot if new regulations are introduced.

For example, in the Twin Cities, specifically Minneapolis, most HOAs don’t allow short-term rentals under 30 days. However, mid-term rentals can be a great alternative, but that’s a completely different strategy.

Another example is Duluth, Minnesota. It’s a well-known vacation market, but there are very few permits available, and there’s often a waitlist to get one. Even though it’s a high-revenue market, the restrictions make it difficult to enter.

A lot of investors don’t research these nuances before jumping in, and that can lead to major challenges down the line.

Yeah, I agree. Investors need to enter these markets with their eyes wide open, but at the same time, they shouldn’t let these challenges hold them back. You’re a big believer in data-driven decisions. Do you have any tools or strategies you use to identify the best opportunities in the short-term rental market?

Yes, my biggest piece of advice is to use multiple data sources—never rely on just one.

Most people know about AirDNA, and BiggerPockets has some great calculators, but I also subscribe to InvestTR by Vrolio, which provides mid-term and short-term rental data. Another great tool is PriceLabs, which helps analyze market trends before purchasing a property.

The key thing to remember is that data is objective, but the way it’s reported can be subjective. For example, Airbnb calendars can be blocked incorrectly, which can distort occupancy rates. That’s why you need to cross-check multiple sources to get a clear picture.

I love that. Too many people make investment decisions based on emotions rather than data. Now, let me ask you this—if someone is looking to enter the vacation rental market, do you have a go-to strategy that can work anywhere?

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Unique and Profitable Rental Strategies

If someone is looking to enter the vacation rental market, do you have a go-to strategy that can work anywhere?

Yes, I would say the key is to be unique and create an experience.

That could mean investing in a uniquely shaped property, like a tiny home or an A-frame, or adding amenities that stand out. A lot of properties have common features like hot tubs and saunas, but you can go beyond that by offering something unexpected.

For example, if your property is in a snowy area, you could provide snowshoes. If it’s near a lake, consider offering fishing poles, paddleboards, kayaks, or canoes. If you’re in a metro area, something like e-bikes can add value. The goal is to figure out why people are coming to that location and enhance their experience in a way that makes your property unforgettable.

Another idea is to create a “hidden” feature—maybe a secret door that leads to a home theater or a themed space. Anything that keeps guests engaged and talking about your property will give you an edge over the competition.

When you do something unique, you’re no longer competing in the general short-term rental market. Instead, you’re creating your own lane.

Yeah, that’s just like branding. We talk about this all the time on the show—standing out is everything. I love that recommendation.

Now, you’ve also mentioned before that mid-term rentals can be more profitable with fewer expenses. When should investors consider a mid-term rental instead of a short-term rental?

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When to Choose a Mid-Term Rental Over a Short-Term Rental

I think it comes down to risk tolerance. Mid-term rentals tend to be lower risk compared to short-term rentals.

If you’re comfortable with a strategy that requires less day-to-day management but still earns more than a long-term lease, mid-term rentals are a great option.

A lot of people know about traveling nurses, but if you do some research, you’ll find that certain hospitals pay more, which can drive a surge of healthcare workers to that area. Those locations can be great for mid-term rentals.

Other factors to consider include:

• Public transportation and accessibility – Is it easy for guests to get around?
• Demand drivers – Why are people coming to the area? Is it for work, medical reasons, or business travel?
• Pricing and profitability – Use tools like PriceLabs to determine if mid-term rentals can be a strong alternative in your market.

The key is to understand the why behind your guests’ stay. Once you do that, you can position your property to meet their needs.

Yeah, I like that a lot. Now, let’s shift gears and talk about market trends. What are some emerging trends in vacation rentals that investors should keep on their radar?

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Emerging Trends in Vacation Rentals

I think uniqueness is a huge trend right now. There’s been a rise in boutique hotels and highly themed, experience-driven properties.

Another trend is maximalist design.

What is that? I haven’t heard of it.

It’s where everything is bold and over-the-top—huge murals, bright colors, extravagant patterns. For example, there’s a property here in Northeast Minneapolis called The Dollhouse. It has leopard print spiral staircases, zebra stairs, neon lights—just really eclectic and vintage.

I’ve seen similar properties in California and other major markets. People are looking for something different, something that makes their stay memorable.

Another trend is unique Airbnb experiences—like transforming a cave into a rental near a waterfall. People are craving experiences, not just places to stay.

So, it’s not just about being unique; it’s about offering an experience. That makes sense.

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Leveraging Digital Marketing to Increase Bookings

That ties perfectly into influencer marketing and social media. Have you used digital marketing strategies to increase bookings and revenue?

Absolutely. One of the best things you can do is engage with social media communities—whether that’s Facebook groups, Instagram, or other platforms.

Instead of just promoting my properties, I focus on providing value—sharing insights, answering questions, and connecting with like-minded people. That kind of engagement naturally leads to opportunities.

Yeah, and you probably see this as much as I do—people are often afraid to put themselves out there. But the tipping point comes when they realize the power of being authentic.

As a marketer, I’ve seen it time and time again. The polished, studio-shot content rarely performs as well as an iPhone video where you’re just being yourself. Have you noticed that too?

Yes, absolutely. And even if you’re not comfortable on camera, you can still create content. You could just use your voice while showing footage of the property, or do walkthroughs without being in the frame.

Exactly. Start where you’re comfortable, and you’ll grow from there. Now, you’re on podcasts, featured in magazines, on TV, and even working with local government figures. But I’m sure it didn’t start that way.

Oh no, not at all. In the beginning, I wouldn’t do anything because I was too focused on making everything perfect—the backdrop, the sound, the lighting. It was rocky at first.

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Resilience and Growth Mindset

That’s so relatable. A lot of people let perfectionism hold them back. But I want to shift gears a little because I know you’ve faced personal challenges that have shaped your resilience and problem-solving skills. You’re a domestic violence survivor, and that experience has influenced the way you approach life and business. Can you share a bit about that?

Yeah, absolutely. I’ve had my share of adversity, and I’ve learned that you can look at challenges in two ways: You can see yourself as a victim, or you can ask, “Why is this happening for me?”

Now, looking back, I realize those experiences happened for me—not to me. They shaped me, and they led to something truly meaningful.

One of the biggest things to come out of my journey is Linus’s Pet Haven—a pet-friendly domestic violence shelter I helped create. Many victims stay in unsafe situations because they don’t want to leave their pets behind. I wanted to change that.

Originally, I envisioned a separate shelter just for pets, but it actually turned out even better. Now, survivors can bring their pets with them and keep them in their rooms, providing emotional support and healing.

Seeing people actually use this resource has been life-changing. It took two years to bring this vision to life, but now that it’s here, I understand why I went through those experiences.

And of course, the shelter is named after my dog, Linus. It will always be a legacy of something I started to help others.

Wow, that’s powerful. I want to highlight something here for our listeners—this is the perfect example of turning pain into purpose.

You took something difficult, found meaning in it, and turned it into something that helps others. But that requires a certain mindset. You had to make the choice to see your experience as something that happened for you, not to you. That’s a game-changing perspective.

And what I love about your story is that it connects everything—your passion for pets, your real estate career, your personal journey. It’s all part of the bigger picture. Would you agree?

Yeah, absolutely. When your life and work align with your purpose, that’s when you feel truly successful. It’s not just about making money—it’s about making an impact.

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The Joy of Helping Others Succeed

So, what’s the most rewarding part of your work right now? What brings you the most joy?

Honestly, it’s seeing people take my advice, apply it, and get results.

Whether I’m working with a realtor, an investor, or someone launching their first Airbnb, when they come back and say, “Hey, I did what you suggested, and it worked!”—that’s the best feeling.

No one else can share that excitement like we can in that moment. It’s something special.

Yeah, it’s the realization of both their dream and yours. That’s powerful.

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Future Projects and What’s Next

What’s next for you? Any exciting projects on the horizon?

Right now, I’m looking for a short-term rental in Northeast Minneapolis, South Minneapolis, or a specific area in St. Paul.

The goal is to make it a unique, experiential property that I can also use for case studies and live training sessions. That way, people who want to learn about short-term rentals can see the process in action.

Another big goal is to own 10 short-term rentals this year, so I’m actively searching in certain markets.

I love that. You should document that journey—not just as a case study but as a behind-the-scenes process. People would get a ton of value from seeing how you do it step by step.

That’s a great idea! I think a lot of people would benefit from that.

And what I love about your approach is that you don’t just try to create credibility—you actually live what you teach. You enjoy it, you share it, and that naturally builds trust.

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Advice for New Real Estate Investors

Let’s say someone is just starting their real estate investing journey. What’s one key piece of advice you’d give them?

That’s a big question! But if I had to narrow it down, I’d say:

1. Learn from credible sources. Not everyone giving advice knows what they’re talking about. Find someone who’s actually done it—someone who is succeeding at a high level.
2. Connect with local experts. Real estate is heavily influenced by local trends, regulations, and market conditions. A knowledgeable local mentor can help you avoid costly mistakes.
3. Do your market research. Before jumping into a new market, ask:
   
   • What’s the political climate? Are short-term rentals supported or restricted?
   • What’s the infrastructure like? Are there reliable cleaners, property managers, and maintenance workers? If not, managing the property remotely could be a challenge.

Yeah, I love that. And we’ve talked before about the power of mentorship. Surrounding yourself with the right people can save you years of trial and error.

If someone wants to connect with you, what’s the best way to reach out?

I normally don’t do this, but for this podcast, I’ll share my personal calendar link. If anyone wants to schedule a 30-minute discovery call, they can use the link in the show notes.

That’s awesome! I’ll also list your social media handles and website so people can connect with you. And for our listeners—Candace is incredibly open and willing to help. I highly recommend reaching out.

We’ll also check back in on your case study and update our listeners as you build out your next rental project.

Guys, if you got value from this episode, do me a favor—share the show! It would mean the world to me. I appreciate you tuning in, and I look forward to connecting with you again.

Once again, my name is George Wright III, and this has been The Daily Mastermind. Have a great day!

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About Candice:

Candice Amundson is an Investor Realtor® in the Twin Cities specializing in vacation and short-term rentals. She provides personalized, data-driven advice and employs strong negotiation skills to help clients achieve their investment goals. As a single mother to a 13-year-old and a dog, Candice embraces adventure, exploring Minnesota’s trails and traveling. These experiences foster resilience and adaptability—qualities she integrates into her life and business.

Active in community events and volunteer work, Candice builds meaningful connections that deepen her understanding of local neighborhoods and create partnership opportunities, enhancing the guidance she offers clients. Her experiences have shaped a compassionate and determined approach, ensuring she effectively advocates for her clients’ best interests. Whether investing, selling, buying, or seeking global connections, Candice is dedicated to assisting clients through life’s significant moments with expertise and unwavering commitment.

Connect with Candice:

Website: https://candiceamundson.exprealty.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/candiceamundsonrealtor

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/candiceamundsonrealtor/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/candiceamundsonrealtor/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@candiceamundsonrealtor

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CandiceAmundson

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