Did you know that there is 143.8 million housing units across the U.S? Buying a house or apartment to use for a rental property can be an excellent investment.
But after the excitement of closing on the deal fades away, you may wonder what you should do next. Do you need to turn it into a rental right away? Do you need to make some repairs before you can even think about that?
If you are wondering what to do as a real estate investor after buying your first property, this short and simple guide is for you.
Understand the Local Rental Market
One of the first things you should do after buying a rental property is to understand the local rental market. The best way to do this is by getting a feel for what your competition is doing.
View websites where properties are advertised, and see what types of homes are available. Look at their prices, amenities, and features to determine how they compare to yours.
Decide if You Need to Make Renovations
If your property is comparable to other homes on the market, then there is no need for major renovations. However, if your home needs some work before tenants can move in, do this as soon as possible.
It is better to spend the money on renovations now, rather than having to pay for them later. This will also help your home stand out from the competition.
Identify Your Ideal Tenant Type
As a first-time landlord, you may not know what type of tenant you want. However, you must find someone who will pay their rent on time, take care of the property, and be respectful.
You also want someone who will be a good neighbor, especially if you live in an apartment building. The type of tenant you choose will affect your investment, so it is important to consider this carefully.
Set a Reasonable Rent Amount
The rent you charge is one of the most important aspects of your investment property. You want to set a rate that will provide enough income to cover your expenses, while still being reasonable.
This will help ensure that your property is profitable and appealing to tenants who can afford it. Research what other landlords are charging, and adjust your rent accordingly.
Hire a Property Manager
A property manager will help you stay on top of your investment. They can handle screening tenants, collecting rent, maintaining the property, and more.
This will allow you to focus on other areas of your business while still earning a profit. When hiring a property manager, choose one with experience in the area where your rental property is located.
Real Estate Investor: Earn Money With Your Rental Property
As a real estate investor, owning your first rental property can be a great way to earn money. You can use it as an investment and look for tenants who will pay a fair price or you can opt to manage the property yourself. As a real estate investor, you have many options with your first rental property.
PMI Lakeshore can help you find the best option for your situation. Contact us today to get started!
