Today we’d like to introduce you to Ruben Blackburn.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I’m originally from Lexington, Kentucky, and have been living in Atlanta, Georgia, since 2007. Originally, I had planned on relocating to Florida, but I got stranded on the way there and ended up in Atlanta. At that time, I only had my car, an old desktop computer, and about $8K in cash to my name.
For the first few months, I worked a couple of odd jobs trying to make ends meet. Eventually, I became homeless and found myself sleeping in my car. Most nights, I would park in the back of the Gwinnett County Public Library to sleep. In the mornings, I’d wake up, go inside the library, and eat their donuts and drink some coffee. I was basically surrounded by a room full of books. I would spend the entire day reading books and learning graphic design programs on how to code. One of the librarians who would notice me there frequently asked if I would help design the library’s website. Of course, I said yes, although I had never actually designed a website before. That was the first time I discovered my talent in design and passion for website development.
Back then, MySpace was the most popular Social Media Platform that everyone was using. It was cool because they empower you to be creative by allowing the ability to use HTML/CSS code to customize your page. While many used the platform to socialize, I saw other opportunities. I started designing customized Myspace pages for models, artists, and influencers. My work quickly spread. I soon began producing customized MySpace pages for public figures such as DJ Greg Street, Rick Ross, T.I. and Tiny, and other celebrities. It turned into a small business in which I was able to generate income and eventually get my first apartment. When MySpace diminished (thanks to Facebook), I began designing websites for small businesses and start-up companies. One company, in particular, reached out to design its corporate website. They later hired me as a UX Designer for their brand ApartmentGuide.com. That was the opportunity I needed. I took full advantage and tried to learn everything I needed to know. Since then, I have worked at major organizations such as Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, Home Depot, and ADP as a Lead UX Designer.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has not been a smooth road. It’s important to mention that I never earned a college degree in this field. It was all self-taught. We’re talking eight years of trial and error, mistake after mistake. I just kept grinding it out. There were many nights where I missed sleep or forgot to eat due to working late on a project. I was constantly learning new skills or programs. My skills always had to stay polished and marketable and prepared for the next task.
As you know, we’re big fans of KoStar an Airbnb Management Company. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about the brand?
Well, besides working a full-time career as a UX Designer, I now operate an Airbnb Management Company. The interesting part about this is that I was first Introduced to Airbnb in 2017, by coincidence. A couple of friends and I traveled to Athens, Georgia to drive for Uber during a huge football game weekend and decided to rent an Airbnb. I remember thinking to myself how technology has made it convenient for anyone to catch a ride or rent a house with a push of a button. That same year, I decided to list the house I rented at the time on Airbnb part-time. In my first two bookings, I made $2,000 and generated over $60,000 in my first year. I made many mistakes along the way. Through my success, I was able to use the profits to buy the first home that I used as a full-time Airbnb. However, I am most proud of helping other homeowners position themselves to earn additional revenue through using the Airbnb platform.
One couple I helped was able to get out of foreclosure and rekindle their marriage! That’s when I knew I needed to take this business seriously. With my entrepreneurship and background in User Experience, I launched KoStar, an Airbnb property management company. My goal is to continue to build to help homeowners and anyone looking for supplemental income through renting homes.
What sets you apart from others?
I get to do the two things I love with using technology and my passion in UX Design and Airbnb. I get to create the ultimate travel experiences for any guests that rent my Airbnb. Honestly, I credit Airbnb for changing my life. I never even wanted to own a home until I got started doing Airbnb. It has taught me many facets of real estate, investing, and passive income. My experience has helped other people I work with also to become very successful.
I enjoy transforming a home into thriving investment properties. What really sets KoStar apart is that we create a seamless and worry-free experience for the guests and for the homeowner to reach their highest earning potential.
Is there anything else that you would like our readers to know or any encouraging words before you go?
Yes! I find gratification in inspiring others to achieve their goals and in developing a plan and attacking it relentlessly. I stand by this quote from Confucius, who says, “We all have two lives. The second one begins when you realize that you only have one”.
Never get discouraged when something doesn’t work out for you. It’s not a failure as long as you learn from the mistake. It’ll push you towards something much greater.
Ruben is also known by his nickname “Rueko,” which many of his friends, family, and associates call him.
Contact Info:
- Email: Hello@MyKoStar.com
- Website: http://MyKostar.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kostarmgt
- Phone: 404-913-4447
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRLZKGl85MLOGBTqx6Upj4w
- Other: UX Portfolio: http://RubenB.me
