Barbara Corcoran is more than a prominent name in the business world; she embodies resilience, innovation, and success against all odds. Born on March 10, 1949, in Edgewater, New Jersey, Barbara has built an impressive career as a businesswoman, investor, syndicated columnist, and television personality. Her story showcases the power of determination and creativity in overcoming life's challenges.
Quick Info Table
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Popular As | Barbara Corcoran |
| Occupation | Businesswoman, Investor, Columnist, TV Personality |
| Age (as of 2024) | 75 |
| Date of Birth | March 10, 1949 |
| Birthplace | Edgewater, New Jersey |
| Birth Sign | Pisces |
| Nationality | American |
| Net Worth (2024) | Estimated $100 million |
| School/College | St. Thomas Aquinas College |
| Spouse | Bill Higgins |
| Children | 2 |
| Notable Works | The Corcoran Group, Shark Tank |
Early Life and Education
Barbara Corcoran grew up in a large family in Edgewater, New Jersey, as the second of ten children. Her early life was challenging, marked by dyslexia, which made school particularly difficult. Despite being labeled as the "dumb kid" due to her learning difficulties, Barbara persevered. She graduated from St. Thomas Aquinas College in 1971 with a degree in education. This educational journey taught her the value of hard work and determination, laying the foundation for her future success.
The Birth of a Real Estate Empire
After college, Barbara explored various careers, including teaching and waitressing. However, her foray into real estate marked the beginning of her empire. In 1973, she co-founded The Corcoran-Simonè real estate company with a $1,000 loan from her then-boyfriend. By 1978, she had established The Corcoran Group, a real estate brokerage in New York City. Her innovative marketing strategies and keen business acumen helped the company grow into one of the most successful real estate firms in the city.
Selling The Corcoran Group
In 2001, Barbara made headlines when she sold The Corcoran Group to NRT for a staggering $66 million. This sale was not just a financial milestone but also a testament to her ability to build and grow a business from scratch. The deal marked a new chapter in her career, allowing her to explore other opportunities beyond real estate.
Barbara Corcoran on "Shark Tank"
Barbara's charisma and business expertise caught the attention of producers at ABC, leading to her role as one of the original "Shark" investors on the hit TV show "Shark Tank." Since its debut in 2009, Barbara has made over 130 deals on the show, investing in diverse businesses. One of her most notable investments was a $350,000 deal for 40% of Coverplay, a company specializing in slipcovers for play yards.
Writing and Media Presence
Apart from her television career, Barbara is a prolific writer. She has contributed columns to publications like More, The Daily Review, Redbook, and New York Daily News. Her writing offers insights into entrepreneurship and real estate, drawing from her extensive experience in the field. Additionally, she has authored several books, sharing her journey and business wisdom with a wider audience.
Financial Insights
As of 2024, Barbara Corcoran's net worth is estimated to be around $100 million. Her wealth primarily stems from the sale of The Corcoran Group and her investments on "Shark Tank." According to financial experts, her diverse investment portfolio and strategic business decisions have significantly contributed to her financial success. Barbara's story is a prime example of how strategic investments and business acumen can lead to substantial wealth creation.
Personal Life
Barbara is married to Bill Higgins, a retired Navy captain and former FBI agent. The couple has two children: a biological son named Tom and an adopted daughter named Kate. Despite her busy career, Barbara prioritizes family, often sharing insights about balancing work and personal life.
Real Estate Ventures
Even after selling her company, Barbara's love for real estate remains evident. She owns multiple properties in Manhattan, including a $3.5 million apartment and a $10 million penthouse. Her keen eye for valuable real estate investments continues to be a significant aspect of her financial portfolio.
Unique Celebrations
In 2019, Barbara celebrated her 70th birthday with a mock funeral, a unique event that reflects her vibrant personality and zest for life. This celebration was not just a personal milestone but also a reminder of her ability to embrace life with humor and creativity.
Hobbies and Interests
Barbara Corcoran enjoys skiing and beach outings, activities that provide her with relaxation and rejuvenation. Her passion for these hobbies underscores her belief in maintaining a balanced lifestyle, combining hard work with leisure and fun.
Investments Through Forefront Venture Partners
Barbara's investment strategy extends beyond "Shark Tank" through her involvement with Forefront Venture Partners. She focuses on high-growth, early-stage companies, leveraging her experience to identify promising startups with the potential for significant returns.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is Barbara Corcoran's most successful investment on Shark Tank?
A1: While Barbara has made numerous successful investments, her deal with Coverplay stands out due to its strategic impact and financial success.
Q2: How did Barbara Corcoran overcome dyslexia?
A2: Barbara attributes her success in overcoming dyslexia to her determination and innovative thinking, which allowed her to find unique solutions to challenges.
Q3: What books has Barbara Corcoran written?
A3: Barbara has authored several books, including "Shark Tales: How I Turned $1,000 into a Billion Dollar Business" and "Nextville: Amazing Places to Live the Rest of Your Life."
Q4: What advice does Barbara Corcoran give to aspiring entrepreneurs?
A4: Barbara often emphasizes the importance of resilience, creativity, and the willingness to take risks as key ingredients for entrepreneurial success.
Q5: How can I learn more about Barbara Corcoran's investment strategies?
A5: Barbara shares her insights through her columns, books, and television appearances, offering valuable advice on investment and business growth.
Conclusion
Barbara Corcoran's journey from a struggling student to a successful business mogul is an inspiring story of resilience and innovation. Her achievements in real estate, television, and investment have made her a respected figure in the business world. Through her writing and media presence, Barbara continues to inspire and educate aspiring entrepreneurs, proving that with determination and creativity, anything is possible. Her legacy is a testament to the power of perseverance and the impact of strategic business decisions.
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