Barry Raber
President
Carefree Covered RV Storage
Barry Raber is not just a name in the real estate industry; he is a visionary, a pioneer, and a living legend whose entrepreneurial spirit has revolutionized the landscape of real estate investment and management. From his humble beginnings in Pendleton, Oregon, to becoming a recognized thought leader and serial entrepreneur, Barry’s journey is a testament to the power of innovation, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
Early Inspiration and the Genesis of a Career
Barry’s journey into the world of real estate began with a spark of inspiration from a family friend whose success and lifestyle piqued his curiosity. This led to an interview and subsequent 10-year tenure at Randall Realty, where Barry had the privilege of learning from Robert Randall, a titan in the real estate investment business. Under Randall’s mentorship, Barry honed his skills, eventually rising to a top position within the company, which boasted 250 employees and $1 billion in assets.
However, when Randall’s health scare altered the trajectory of Barry’s career, he seized the opportunity to forge his own path. Inspired by his father’s entrepreneurial journey, Barry launched his own real estate investment business, leveraging the wealth of knowledge and experience he had garnered at Randall Realty.
The Entrepreneurs’ Organization: A Lifelong Influence
One of the pivotal decisions in Barry’s career was joining the Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO). This 22-year affiliation became a cornerstone in his journey, providing a reservoir of business strategies and best practices. Through EO, Barry not only absorbed invaluable insights but also contributed as a leader, serving multiple terms as Learning Chair and Moderator for the Portland chapter. His contributions were recognized in 2017 when he was named EO Portland Entrepreneur of the Year.
Building Businesses: A Legacy of Success
Barry’s entrepreneurial ventures are marked by a series of successful businesses, each reflecting his commitment to innovation and excellence. His first major venture, Business Property Trust, focused on transforming undervalued, mismanaged properties into thriving business parks through capital improvements and hands-on management.
Following this success, Barry turned his attention to the self-storage market with Bargain Storage. Here, he applied his signature approach of identifying and revitalizing undervalued properties, achieving significant growth and success.
Carefree Covered RV Storage: Revolutionizing RV Storage
Barry’s latest venture, Carefree Covered RV Storage, is a testament to his forward-thinking approach and ability to identify market opportunities. Recognizing the growing demand for high-quality RV storage, Barry founded a company that offers unparalleled amenities and security. The Class A properties feature self-washes, charging plugs, dog parks, and a welcoming center designed to create a community feel. With a vision to establish a national brand, Carefree Covered RV Storage is poised to set new standards in the RV storage space.
Thought Leadership and Influence
Barry’s influence extends beyond his business ventures. As an emerging thought leader, he has authored articles for prestigious publications like Inc., Entrepreneur, Forbes, Business Journals, Oregon Business, and Brainz magazines. Through his writings and his website, Real Simple Business, Barry shares his insights and strategies, helping aspiring entrepreneurs navigate the complexities of building and scaling successful businesses.
The Four Pillars of Success
Barry’s philosophy of business success is distilled into four key pillars: product differentiation, engaging branding, a customer-first culture, and careful exit timing. These principles have guided his ventures and are central to his advice for other entrepreneurs. By focusing on creating unique and compelling products, building strong brands, prioritizing customer satisfaction, and strategically timing business exits, Barry has consistently achieved outstanding results.
A Life Beyond Business
Despite his professional achievements, Barry remains grounded and devoted to his family. He lives in Portland, Oregon, with his wife, Jennifer, and their three children. Outside of work, Barry enjoys traveling, creating memorable experiences for friends and family, and indulging in his favorite treats, like a corndog with a pumpkin pie chaser.
Recognition and Accolades
Barry’s contributions to the business world have not gone unnoticed. He is listed among the Top 100 Innovators & Entrepreneurs and is recognized as one of the Top 10 Entrepreneurs to Look Out For in 2024. These accolades reflect his impact on the industry and his status as a visionary leader.
Barry Raber’s journey from a curious young man in Pendleton to a celebrated real estate entrepreneur is a story of determination, innovation, and excellence. Through his ventures, leadership, and thought leadership, Barry continues to shape the real estate industry and inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs. His legacy is one of transformation, not just of properties but of lives and businesses, making him a true living legend in the world of real estate entrepreneurship.
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