Buying your first rental property is a major investment and can be a lucrative one. However, take it from the professionals that some precautions should be taken. Do your research, take your time, and read the tips we have provided from nationwide pros in the real estate industry on buying your first rental property.
1. Use Leverage to Buy the Property
Potential real estate investors should make sure to understand the mortgage market. If you get the right mortgage, it could help keep your costs low and reduce uncertainty about the property’s cash flow. Using the leverage of a mortgage will free up some of your cash so you can save it for repairs or a future investment. However, a mortgage can be a double-edged sword since there will be financing costs associated with it, so it’s always best to consult with a professional.
If you’ll be using a mortgage when buying your first rental property, it’s important to weigh all your financing options carefully. Should you choose a 15-or 30-year mortgage? A fixed or adjustable rate? To better weigh the true cost of your financing options, first-time investors can fill out a short form on LendingTree and let multiple lenders compete for your loan. Its online marketplace enables you to compare rates and offers quickly to find a good fit.
3. Invest in Single-family Homes First
Invest in single-family homes first since it’s the simplest way to get started as a new real estate investor. The upkeep is easier than multifamily or commercial properties. With only a single tenant, there doesn’t tend to be as much wear and tear on the property and, when something breaks, you’ll only need to fix one thing.
4. Invest Enough to Be Cash Flow Positive
First-time rental property buyers should only buy a property that cash flows. The best way to limit your risk and increase your odds of success is to make sure you are putting enough money down to be cash flow positive. There will be unexpected expenses so leave a margin for error. It also enables you to weather tough economic times. If the property cash flows, the fluctuations of the market are less relevant, and you can hold it for the long term.
Finding and screening tenants is often an investor’s least favorite thing to do, and managing rentals can be lots of work. Investing in turnkey properties can solve both these problems. Turnkey real estate comes with existing tenants and property managers. That means immediate rental income and a manager to deal with those 2 a.m. phone calls instead of you. At Roofstock, you can browse properties in up to 40 different rental markets at a wide range of price points and invest in the rental that right for you.
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