Join Club

Rental Trends: Investing in a Fixer-Upper Rental Property vs. a Rehabbed House

Rental Trends banner

This biweekly sponsored column is written by the experts at Gordon James Realty, a local property management firm that specializes in residential real estate, commercial real estate and home owner associations. Please submit any questions in the comments section or via email.

When searching for an investment property, you might be faced with the decision to buy a fixer-upper or a home that’s already upgraded. It’s a common question, particularly from those making their first excursion into the income property arena. There are numerous right answers, requiring your thoughtful consideration of multiple factors before you make the leap.

Make your evaluation in light of the three most important rules of real estate:

  1. Location
  2. Location
  3. Location

Whether you buy a home to occupy or rent, a desirable location supersedes all other considerations. Sure, you might find a seemingly fabulous “deal” on a property. However, if it’s in an undesirable location, you’ll face one or both of these challenges:

  • Difficulty finding good, qualified tenants
  • Needing to charge lower rent to entice tenants

Either of these issues will potentially lower your income, cash flow and profits. Despite self-help articles and books written about getting rich with real estate, owning, maintaining and managing rental property requires hard work. Sure, you’ll enjoy tax-deferred gains while you own the property and favorable tax treatment when you sell, but profits depend on your ability to generate sufficient cash flow to make mortgage payments and pay operating expenses.

Do you really want to risk the cost of having zero rental income while you spend months finding qualified tenants? Or, being forced to lower your rent by 30 to 50 percent just to attract appropriate tenants? Investing in a desirable location can help you avoid these issues.

Fixer-Upper Differences

Real estate fixer-uppers come in a variety of flavors. Ask yourself a few critical questions to make the right decision for you.

  • How handy with home repairs are you? What can you do well and what repairs will you need licensed professionals to do?
  • Do the properties you‘re considering just need some TLC (thorough cleaning, paint, new carpet, etc.) or major system repairs (electrical, plumbing, HVAC, roof, septic or sewer, etc.)?
  • What will necessary repairs or improvements cost you? Is it possible to recoup the cost of repairs with higher rental income or greater appreciation in value when you sell?

Your honest answers to these questions help you determine whether a fixer-upper or rehabilitated rental property is your best option. Further, evaluate the cost difference between buying a rehabbed home and the costs of fixer-upper “deals” plus what it will cost to fix them. Don’t forget to factor in the cost of mortgage, insurance, etc. while it sits vacant during repairs.

To help you judge if you are really getting a deal on a fixer-upper, consider the following:

  • Be sure your math works. Estimating the cost to upgrade the property versus buying a property in good shape must work in your favor, at least on paper. Add 10 to 25 percent to your estimate to avoid unwelcome and costly surprises to your budget.
  • Seriously consider houses needing minimal repairs.
  • Choose fixer-uppers only if you have the time, energy and some ability to do part of the fixing.
  • Order a full inspection from a proven, thorough home inspector.

Finally, even if you own only one rental property, consider hiring a quality property management firm in your area to save you time and headaches and give you cost control.

Source

Recent Stories

Good Monday evening, Arlington. Let’s take a look back at today’s stories and a look forward to tomorrow’s event calendar. 🕗 News recap The following articles were published earlier today…

An 18-year-old Arlington woman is facing a litany of charges after an reported bike theft led to violence. The incident happened Sunday evening near the intersection of S. Walter Reed…

What do I do if school doesn’t fit my kid? That’s the question that so many of the parents and families ask when they’re looking at small independent schools like…

There is a new play area for kids inside Ballston Quarter with plenty of pint-sized attractions. Located on the first floor of the mall, near the about-to-close Macy’s, Junior Playland…

Well-Paid Maids recently unveiled a new scheduling system.

That means it’s easier than ever to book your professional home cleaning with the only certified living-wage home cleaning service in the D.C. area.

Here’s what to expect when you book your cleaning:

  1. Select your location.

  2. Choose your service (i.e. 1 BD/1BA). (This is also where you’ll see the rate.)

  3. Pick your cleaner. (If you don’t have a preference, opt for “any available.”)

  4. Schedule a date and time. You can also set up recurring cleanings and get a discount!

  5. Enter your information and reserve.

Read More

Submit your own Announcement here.

Are you facing life’s challenges, feeling overwhelmed, or seeking personal growth? Embrace the path to emotional well-being with our expert psychotherapy services!

Why Choose Us?

Our team of compassionate and experienced psychotherapists is here to guide you on your journey to inner peace, self-discovery, and positive change. We provide a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment.

What We Offer:
✔️ Individual Therapy
✔️ Couples Counseling
✔️ Anxiety & Stress Management
✔️ Depression Treatment
✔️ Trauma Healing
✔️ Self-Esteem Building
✔️ Life Transitions Support
✔️ And Much More!

Read More

Submit your own Announcement here.

Portofino Italian Wine Dinner, April 6, 6:30pm

Four course Italian dinner, paired with 2 wines each. The wines will be served “blind” and notes on each wine will be discussed. The event is coordinated with Elite Wine Importers and The Portofino Restaurant. The dinner is on Saturday,

×

Subscribe to our mailing list