Before we go into any depth on this topic, I want you to understand that buying investment property is a complex business decision. You should study this subject in some depth before taking action, and you should seek professional help from your attorney, accountant, and real estate agent. That said, it is always good to have a plan in mind before you start looking for help.
- Choose the type of investment. Vacant land, rental houses, condominiums, apartment buildings, store fronts, commercial properties, industrial properties, mobile homes, mobile home parks, etc. each have varying degrees of risk and reward. For someone just starting out, a rental house or small apartment building is probably the best choice. They offer the opportunity for income on a regular basis, have shorter vacancies on average than commercial or industrial property, are less regulated than condominiums and mobile homes in most areas, and there are many places that you can get information and education on becoming a successful landlord in small residential properties. It is a good place to start, and it is the investment type we will be concentrating on in this article.
- Choose an area. Look for an area that has a diverse economic base offering many employment opportunities. After all, the tenants will need an income in order to reliably pay rent. The area should offer good schools, shopping, and transportation. Ideally, it will be an easy drive from your residence so that you can keep an eye on your investment. And, the area should be safe. Profits and money are not worth risking your life for, and the quality tenants that you want to attract do not want to risk their lives either.
Tip: When you investigate an area, get copies of the local newspapers and the city newsletters for the last few years so that you will be aware of things that are happening that may affect the value of properties. Changes in the laws, land use planning, zoning changes, and many other things can change the value of property. Talk to people in the community to find out what issues are being discussed. Talk to other investment property owners to find out how the community relates to landlords. Due diligence in this search can save you a lot of time and money.
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Author: Jane Garvey