Upon returning to Guangzhou, Li Jin immediately took Lin Tao under her wing and began to nurture him. She understood that to expand her business in the future, she needed trustworthy people by her side. Jin Yuanyuan was currently extremely busy, and Lin Tao would become her capable assistant in exploring new areas.

Meanwhile, to improve work efficiency and make travel more convenient, Li Jin purchased two cars. She handed over the packaging materials factory to Jin Yuanyuan, and although her work focus shifted, she still visited the factory from time to time to check on its operations. She gave one of the cars to Jin Yuanyuan for easier transportation and scheduling during work hours.

In 1983, the domestic real estate industry was still in its infancy. However, Li Jin, as a time traveler, knew the important role of real estate in China's future, and she was determined to devote herself to the field of real estate development.

Li Jin and Lin Tao began a relentless journey, surveying land resources throughout Guangzhou. From the bustling city center to promising emerging suburban areas, they seized every possible opportunity. At each location, Li Jin meticulously studied the surrounding environment, transportation conditions, and future development plans.

“Lin Tao, look at this area. It looks a bit desolate now, but once the city develops and the transportation network is improved, its value will definitely increase significantly,” Li Jin said firmly, standing on a vacant lot on the outskirts of the city.

Lin Tao looked in the direction Li Jin was pointing, thought for a moment, and then replied, "Sister, you're right. However, developing real estate requires a lot of investment, and with our current reserves, I'm afraid it's not enough."

Li Jin frowned slightly, lost in thought. She knew that funding was indeed a major, unavoidable problem, but she had no intention of giving up. Back in her office, Li Jin and Lin Tao immediately began to develop a detailed business plan. They thoroughly analyzed market demand, accurately estimated development costs, and meticulously planned the project's positioning, repeatedly considering every detail to strive for perfection.

To raise funds, Li Jin adopted a two-pronged approach. On the one hand, she actively communicated with banks, striving for loan support; on the other hand, she contacted influential friends in the business world, hoping to attract their investment. However, things did not go smoothly. Banks were extremely cautious in their risk assessments of real estate development projects, and loan approvals were as slow as a snail's pace; while some friends were also hesitant about this emerging industry, their investment intentions ambiguous.

"Sister, this can't go on like this, we have to think of another way," Lin Tao said anxiously.

Li Jin took a deep breath and reassured her, "Don't worry, let's reassess our resources. I refuse to believe we can be stuck with this problem."

Just as Li Jin was worrying about funding, Gong Moze sent a letter from Beijing. In the letter, Gong Moze expressed his longing for her and mentioned that he would use his spare time in the army to study real estate-related knowledge, hoping to help Li Jin. Reading the letter, Li Jin felt a warm current welling up in her heart, which strengthened her resolve to persevere.

After countless negotiations and efforts, Li Jin finally persuaded a discerning businessman to invest in her project. Meanwhile, after reviewing her detailed and feasible business plan, the bank also agreed to provide a partial loan. With the funding issue initially resolved, Li Jin quickly launched her first real estate project.

Throughout the project, Li Jin was deeply involved, rigorously overseeing every step from reviewing design drawings to selecting construction materials. She required the construction team to focus not only on housing quality and living comfort but also to incorporate innovative design concepts to attract more clients.

"We must create a unique and high-quality residential project; we must not follow the crowd," Li Jin emphasized firmly at the project meeting.

As the project progressed, various problems arose. Technical difficulties were encountered during construction, and nearby residents raised concerns and questions about the project. Faced with these challenges, Li Jin did not back down. She invited experts to solve the technical problems, proactively communicated with the surrounding residents, patiently answered their questions, and strived to gain their understanding and support.

Thanks to Li Jin's tireless efforts, the development gradually took shape. Watching the buildings rise from the ground, Li Jin felt a great sense of accomplishment. But she knew this was just the beginning, and the road ahead was long.

In Beijing, Xiao Pingping did not disappoint Li Jin's trust. After a painstaking search, she finally found several shops in excellent locations. She meticulously organized the information and sent it to Li Jin immediately, also calling to report on the situation.

"Sister Jin, I've personally inspected all these stores. The locations are excellent, with high foot traffic, perfect for opening a clothing store. Take a look at the information, and if you think it's suitable, let's secure it right away," Xiao Pingping said excitedly.

Li Jin looked at the documents in his hand and smiled with satisfaction: "Pingping, you did a great job! As soon as I finish what I'm doing here, I'll go back to Beijing to take care of the store."