Investing in multifamily rental properties as opposed to single-family rental properties can expand a portfolio and present new financial opportunities. It’s necessary to first understand the potential difficulties that come with renting out multiple-family homes. Purchasing a multi-family home can frequently be a more time-consuming and expensive procedure than purchasing a single-family rental. However, it is possible to make the successful switch to your new investing plan by studying the fundamentals of multi-family property investing.
Choose a Property Type
The existence of two fundamental classifications for multi-family rental properties may be the first thing to know. A multifamily building with four or fewer units is considered residential, whereas a property with more than four units is typically considered commercial. The size of the multifamily property you intend to purchase will, in many ways, influence how you look for, evaluate, and price it. For instance, purchasing single-family homes is similar to using residential mortgages to finance multi-family buildings with four or fewer units. On the other hand, commercial property is bought using commercial financing and is valued using a formula rather than on similar properties. For those who have never purchased a commercial property, doing so can be extremely difficult, which is why the majority of landlords start out with smaller multi-family homes.
More Units = More Preparation
Even if you decide to purchase a multifamily home with four or fewer units, greater planning is required than when purchasing single-family rental properties. For instance, a lucrative rental always depends on location. Location can be crucial for multi-family buildings, especially if it’s close to amenities like public transportation. Additionally, it is essential to evaluate the area’s cost of living, crime rate, and average income. Although researching figures online can be useful, they don’t always provide the full picture. This is especially true in places where there have been recent changes (either good or bad). In addition to your other homework, schedule some time to drive through the area and visit the local police station to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the area.
Prepare Your Finances
Before beginning your property quest, you should investigate lenders and organize your finances. Choose a lender that has a track record of assisting investors in purchasing the kind of property you wish to purchase. Along with income and spending figures from your current rental properties, you will also need to prepare documents proving your trustworthiness. Be prepared to provide additional documents if requested in order to qualify for a loan on a multifamily property. For a loan on a single-family home, you may not be required to provide certain documents or information.
Hire the Right People
Having the right expertise on your team is essential for expanding up to multi-family buildings. For instance, you’ll need to locate and employ a real estate agent with the appropriate training and expertise. Locate one that focuses on the kind of multi-family property you wish to purchase, if at all possible. You may also want to acquire the local knowledge of a professional property management firm. They significantly enhance the value of your property both during the buying process and after you possess it because they are local market experts.
Are you ready to get started? To learn more about our many high-quality services, get in touch with your regional Real Property Management office.
We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. See Equal Housing Opportunity Statement for more information.
