Investment Property: Looking for a Great Investment? Try Buying to Rent.
Posted by admin on December 18th, 2008 filed in real estateComment now »

Investment Property: Looking for a Great Investment? Try Buying to Rent.
While many people imagine of owning a second property, the cost of buying a second piece of real estate is enough to frighten most away, promising to return when they get a large raise or gain an inheritance. On the other hand, some people perceive second homes as an investment, one that can start paying off as soon as they own the property. These people are landlords, and they buy property simply to rent it out again, guaranteeing themselves a sound source of income.
Becoming a landlord is a lot of work, though. The job begins prior to purchasing the property. Make some inquiries in your area in order to learn how much the average renter will pay. Also, you should also consider the type of house you want to buy, so you have a clear indication of how how labor intensive it will be.
You will also want to determine if the property will call for any repairs or renovation before you will be able to start renting it. Inspect all the house systems, such as the electric wiring and the plumbing. You should also inspect for pests such as rodents. You may want to hire a home inspector to examine these systems for you, or at least confer with with the realtor.
Once you are assured that the house requires only minor repairs, inspect the home’s condition. Examine the walls for any marks, check the flooring for wear spots, and check the kitchen and bathrooms to make sure everything is clean and in good working order. As an eventual landlord, you can buy a property in need of repairs to rent, but remember you will need to complete all the repairs before you start leasing it out.
After you have the rental property inhabitable, your next step is to locate renters. Consider using a free website to post a classified ad for your rental. It is handy and uncomplicated, reaches millions of people, and unlike printed ads, it is at no cost to you.
As you are waiting for someone to contact you, you may want to research your state’s laws on landlord’s and tenant’s rights. You are going to want to find out your requirements, the tenant’s rights, and how to handle an eviction.
Make sure you scrutinize your potential renters before you permit them move in. Create a questionnaire for potential renters, asking them to give such information as source of income, prior addresses and whether or not they have pets. Principally, request for recommendations. One of the key references is a previous landlord who can tell you what to expect from your new tenants.
Be straightforward with the provisions of your lease. Explain when the rent is due, the rental price and penalties for being late. Enter all of these terms in a written contract, and print up two copies for your tenant to sign-one for yourself, and one for the tenant. Try to attract a tenant that wants a long-term rental, plus one who has a steady job. By investigating and being as detailed as possible, you will ensure that your rental delivers a steady stream of income.
Thanks: http://www.viewnewportbeachrealestate.com/
Tags: Buy To Rent, investment property, Investment real estate, Real estate