You might consider buying your first rental property if the volatility in the stock market has made you look for more stable investments.
You can make a good investment with this type of project, but it is important to manage your investment over time. You can increase your chances of success as a property owner by following a few simple tips.
Don’t make it personal
First, you should treat your investment in property as a company, and not as something personal. Set up separate accounts to receive and send money for the property and monitor every transaction. Don’t spend more than you can afford to, whether you are buying or renovating. Also, keep receipts of all transactions relating to the property. These receipts will be needed when you file your taxes.
Avoid renting your home to friends or family. It can be difficult if the tenants are late in paying their rent or cause damage to your property. Select tenants that you do not know. This will reduce the chance of awkward situations, and make it easier to maximize annual profits and charge top-dollar.
Cover yourself
You may hope that everything will run smoothly, but you never know if you’ll have to deal with problems, such as damage to your property from a cyclone, electrical failure, or an accident on the premises. To minimize financial losses, it’s best to have landlord insurance.
It is also worthwhile to invest in a home warranty such as that offered by American Home Shield. Home cover policies cover the repair and replacement of key appliances, system components, including older ones. Know your rights and responsibilities to ensure that you are always conducting investment property business in a legal manner and avoid any fines or litigation.
Select a Rental Agency That You Can Trust
If you choose to manage the rental aspect yourself, there are many things involved. Most people will hire a specialist management agency. Choose a company that you can trust and who will help to maximize your return on investment if you choose this route. Look for a company that is familiar with the region when selecting a firm.
Renters should be able to understand the market and know what tenants they want and how much they can charge. They also need to be able make recommendations about the price changes that may occur as the market changes. Rental agencies must also be adept at advertising their properties and creating the proper paperwork. They must thoroughly evaluate prospective tenants and perform adequate background and financial checks.
Ask about the experience of those you will be dealing with when speaking to prospective firms. Ask about reports, fees, and inspections.
Use the services of knowledgeable experts
Property investors who are successful know that they don’tknow it all. Experts in the relevant fields are consulted for advice about matters related to purchasing a rental home and leasing it.
Consult with accountants, lawyers, and financial advisers to help you set up your best ownership structure, handle depreciation, and claim expenses when filing your annual taxes.
Ensure you have the right agreements in place
If you live your life by honor codes and verbal agreements, then it is important to put everything in writing when investing. If something goes wrong you need to have a paper trail to protect you legally and financially. You also need to be able to prove your ownership, rental income and other records over the years.
When you buy your property or sign with a rental company, read the entire contract. Read the fine print in the tenancy contract for those who will be living in your home.
You must read and understand all information contained in the contract. Don’t assume that what you get from an agent or lawyer is correct.
Be strategic when you buy and rent a property to maximize your investment dollars. Your hard work upfront and over time should pay off and you shouldn’t regret it in the long or short term.