12 October 2022
 Categories: Real Estate, Blog

So, you're thinking about investing in rental property. Congratulations! Rental property can be a great source of supplemental income. However, there are a few things you should know before diving in headfirst. Here are four benefits you can gain by consulting with a real estate agent specializing in investment properties prior to making your purchase.

They Can Guide You On Researching the Neighborhood 

When you're buying a home for yourself, it's important to find a neighborhood that suits your needs and lifestyle. The same is true when you're buying an investment property. You need to do your research and make sure the neighborhood is one that will attract tenants. Things to look for include the crime rate, the quality of schools in the area, public transportation, and proximity to shopping and entertainment. A good real estate agent will be able to provide you with this information and more.

They Can Help You Put Maintenance Costs into Consideration

Owning a rental property comes with certain responsibilities. You will be responsible for maintaining the property and making any necessary repairs. This can be costly, so it's important to factor maintenance costs into your budget when considering an investment property. A real estate agent with experience in investment properties can help you estimate these costs so there are no surprises down the road.

They Can Guide You on How to Screen Tenants Thoroughly

Screening tenants is one of the most important parts of being a landlord. You need to make sure you are renting to responsible tenants who will take care of your property and pay their rent on time. A real estate agent can help you develop a screening process that will ensure you are only renting to qualified tenants.

They Can Guide You to Save Up for Cash Reserves

Unexpected repairs are always going to come up when you own a rental property. That's why it's important to have some cash reserves saved up so you're not caught off guard when something needs fixing. A real estate agent can help you estimate how much money you'll need to set aside each month to cover unexpected repairs as well as expected costs like routine maintenance, insurance, and taxes. 

Rental properties can be a great way to earn some extra income—but they're not without their challenges. To avoid making costly mistakes, it's important to consult with a real estate agent who specializes in investment properties prior to making your purchase. With their help, you can steer clear of common pitfalls and set yourself up for success as a rental property owner!

For more info, contact a company like The Kittner Real Estate Group.