Watch Step by Step Video Tutorial How To Buy Your First Rental Property
How to invest in real estate: Here’s exactly how you can buy your first rental property, step by step, and the process involved.
Step 0: Because this is where it starts, you’re going to need a down payment. Learn how to to save for a house.
Step 1: Unless you’re buying a property outright in cash, which I have a feeling is very few of you watching…get your credit in order. Learn how to build your credit.
Step 2: Make sure you have your tax returns prepared. If you’re self employed like me, a lender will ask for your last 2 years of tax returns and take the average income of those two years. Be ready for this!
Step 3: TALK TO A LENDER FIRST BEFORE YOU DO ANYTHING. First, you’ll know EXACTLY what you can qualify for so you won’t waste your time. Secondly, if you find the right place, the lender already has all of your information so you can hit the ground running. And anytime you find a spot that’s worth buying, chances are, you’re competing with other people who want the exact same thing. So timeliness really, really matters here. The faster you are, the better the deal you can get.
Step 4: BEGIN LOOKING AT PROPERTIES. This is really meant to be the fun part…look at EVERYTHING you possibly can within your price range. Learn how to find a good deal.
Step 5: Determine cash flow. The reality is that 95% of properties just don’t make sense to purchase for an investment. They lose money. It’s also the reality that at a certain price, EVERYTHING makes a great investment – it’s really important to understand these numbers. Three ways to make money owning real estate. Mortgage Calculator: www.MortgageCalculator.org
Step 6: Look at properties that need minor cosmetic renovations! Learn about the most profitable renovations and the biggest mistakes.
Step 7: MAKE OFFERS ON PROPERTIES! Expect that not every offer will work out for me, I lose out on many offers because I offer a price where the numbers make sense, and if it’s any higher than that, I won’t buy it.
Step 8: Do your home inspections! Make sure to do as many home inspections as you possible can. Check the roof, the foundation, electrical, plumbing, if there are any leaks, bring in contractors for bids if it needs work…the more you do, the better.
Step 9: Understand escrow costs.
Step 10: RENOVATE IT! Watch videos on home renovations.
Step 11: RENT IT OUT! If you want to rent your place for top dollar, use REALLY good pictures, pick up your phone on the second ring, and be available anytime to show it. I promise if you do this, you’ll have no problem renting it out quickly. I personally like using Apartments.com, Craigslist, Zillow, Redfin, Trulia, and Reatltor.com…the more places you property is, the better. Never just limit yourself to one of these, DO THEM ALL. Do tenant screening 101 too.
STEP 12: SCALE UP and repeat!