How To Get Started In Real Estate Investing
Real estate investing is a great way to make money and build generational wealth. However, it’s important to understand the basics before you get started.
This guide will give you a crash course in real estate investing, from understanding property investment basics to more advanced concepts like investment strategies and financial analysis. By the end of this guide, you should understand how to get started in real estate investing.We also offer a series of free guides for investing, marketing, and managing your real estate business. Subscribe to get more of our free tips.
Property Investment Basics
Saving for a Down Payment
Assuming you have found a property you want to purchase, saving for a down payment is often the next step. The down payment size will vary based on the type of mortgage you get, but it will typically be around 20% of the purchase price.
Saving for a down payment can take some time, so starting as soon as possible is important. You can improve your income streams to manage to save for your down payment.
One way to speed up the process is to set up a separate savings account and automatically transfer a fixed amount each month. This idea will help you to stay on track and not dip into the fund for other purposes.
Finding the Right Property
Finding a suitable property should be your first goal when investing in the real estate business. Try to find an area you’re familiar with and think has growth potential. You should also consider a location with all the necessary amenities to enable you to get tenants or buyers in the future.
You should also take time to assess the condition of the property. You don’t want to overpay for a fixer-upper, but you also don’t want to buy a property that needs a lot of work. Look for something in the middle that you can afford to fix up, but that won’t take too much time or money.
Furthermore, you should also think about the potential return on investment. You want to ensure that you’re buying a property that will increase in value over time. Look at recent trends in the area and talk to a real estate agent to get an idea of what the property is worth.
Financing Your Investment Property
You can use cash to buy property, which requires a lot of financial discipline to save rough money to purchase a home. Alternatively, you can get a loan from a bank.
If you have cash, paying for your investment property outright is the best option. You won’t have to worry about making monthly payments and own the property free and clear.
Getting a loan from a bank is a good option if you don’t have all the cash you need. You can choose a low-interest rate lender, though it depends on your credit score.
Managing Your Investment Property
You don’t stop at closing a deal. You will have a lot to do after successfully buying property to make your dreams come true. You should learn how to manage your property well.
You should market your property to get clients or tenants to profit from your investment. You should always be available to answer buyers’ or tenants’ questions.
You also must maintain your property at all times. Remember that buyers or tenants will love to dwell in clean environments.
You should have a good system in place for tracking payments and following up with late payments. You should also be aware of the laws and regulations regarding rental properties in your area so that you can comply with them. Consider learning more about the Landlord-tenant bill in Kenya.
Real Estate Investment Strategies
When investing in real estate, you should find a good strategy that is likely to give you more yields. Research the best strategies to help you earn money.
We have curated a list of investment strategies to help you gain returns.
Rental Properties
Once you choose this investment strategy, you will have a long-term monthly income. This method involves finding a property in an area with high growth potential. Furthermore, you’ll also need to market your rentals to get good and reliable tenants.
With rental property, you can choose to rent out commercial or residential properties. In other instances, it’s a good idea to consider mixed-use developments.
Investing in industrial property is also a good idea since you’ll deal with big companies which might buy your premises later.
Land for sale
It’s good to invest in land. As you might know, land appreciates with time, unlike buildings which can depreciate if not well maintained.
Investing in land has fewer risks, you only need to buy land in a more populated area and give it a few years to appreciate. Remember, the idea is selling the land at a higher cost and gaining profits.
Before buying any land, research its history and search its title deed to ensure it’s legit.
Property for sale
You can also invest in buying and selling properties. You can increase their value by renovating and furnishing them.
All you should do is get properties in an area with high growth potential.in addition, factor in the best marketing strategies to help you resell your property.
REITs
Real estate investment trusts are a good way to gain returns from investment companies. REITs are a group of investment companies that pool your funds to invest in larger rental properties.
The only risk in this strategy is when the companies go bankrupt. Otherwise, you’ll be receiving dividends every year, some quarterly or semi-yearly.
Real Estate Financial Analysis
You should learn how to analyze your real estate financing status. Note that financial management should be your top priority when investing in real estate. Your success depends on how good you are at cutting unnecessary expenses.
For instance, when marketing your property, ensure you focus on channels that have high conversions. Do not spend on campaigns that have little to no returns.
If you have invested in rental properties, ensure that your tenants know the strictness of rent payments.
You should also keep clear financial records for repairs and maintenance, mortgage repayments, rental income, and all other expenses.
You can calculate your cash flow by using the 50% rule. The rule states that 50% of your rental income belongs to expenses. On the remaining half, you pay the mortgage, and the remaining percentage is your cash flow. You should have a positive cash flow for your property business to thrive.
You should also know that your rental income should be at least 2% of your property buying price. Therefore, if you are not getting that, you should work on your rent pricing and marketing if you have vacant houses.
Conclusion
Each investment strategy has its own set of pros and cons, so it’s important to do your research and choose the option that’s right for you. Remember that you can retire early if you invest in real estate with the right mindset.
Feel free to comment below about your views. We are ready to help you kickstart your property business.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the real estate business profitable?
Yes, property business is profitable as long as you follow the right guideline while investing. To be successful, your main point when investing should be a growing/ grown location.
Can I start real estate without money?
No, you need at least a small percentage of the property’s buying price to apply for a mortgage loan. If you don’t like loans, you may have to save millions of money before getting started.
How long should I expect profits from a real estate investment?
Once your property is set off for sale, you will have to market it aggressively to get the right buyers. It may take 1 to 5 months to close a deal on your house. If you have rental properties, it will take several years to break even.
