2021 40 Under 40: Austin Miller

Homebuilder Austin Miller, 34, does much more than swing a hammer. As owner/operator of Wise Built, he’s developed a passion for investing in real estate and finding dilapidated properties to rehabilitate. He’s up to nine homes built or revitalized in midtown and north Springfield.

One day, Miller had the thought he could write a book about real estate investing. So, he did. It’s called, “Free Houses – How To Build Your Real Estate Investment Portfolio With No Money,” and is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble and other booksellers.

“I had so many great mentors teach me things along the way that I knew if I wrote a book it could be a powerful guide to helping others start on their journey to build wealth and establishing financial freedom,” Miller says.

Looking ahead, Miller intends to use his seat on the Home Builders Association of Greater Springfield board to promote affordable housing.

Proudest moment? My wedding day. We got 350,000 views of our choreographed dance on YouTube.

What did you learn the hard way? In business you can try your hardest, mean well and still end up with a poke in the eye. Dig deep and keep going!

Most treasured possession? My grandpa’s Remington Sportsman ’58. My grandma ordered it out of the Sears catalog for $60 in 1960. He gave it to me a couple months before he died.

Favorite hobby or pastime? Hunting with my 6-year-old son.