Buying a rental property is an excellent way to invest in real estate. It can be very profitable as an individual or when working with a larger investment entity. However, some rental properties are definitely more profitable than others. If you're considering investing in a rental property, pay close attention to these key features:
Profitable rentals are usually in high-demand neighborhoods, and specific areas can affect your vacancies and turnover. For example, if your property is in a college town, you may have plenty of potential tenants leaving more vacancies during the summer months compared to the rest of the year.
The overall quality and popularity of schools in the area can affect a rental's profitability. Properties near highly rated schools and in popular districts will bring in higher profits when it comes time to sell your property or rent it out.
Rental properties in areas with high employment rates and rapid growth attract the most tenants. The proximity to large company offices, industry and other high-volume job generators will increase the property value and your eventual profits.
Access to amenities and culture is crucial to the overall demand for a rental property. Parks, restaurants, grocery stores and entertainment all make for profitable neighborhoods. Also consider the proximity and availability of public transportation. Properties conveniently close to bus lines or subway stops are popular among renters of all kinds.
No matter how sought-after the neighborhood or property, a rental has to be affordable to generate income. The most profitable and least-vacant rental properties are strategic about their rent and other fees. Study the average costs of living and rent of similar properties in your area to determine what potential tenants expect to pay. This will also help you turn a profit when you sell the property down the road, as properties with historically low vacancy rates are attractive to investors.
If you're interested in making money investing in rental properties, these are all important factors to keep in mind. Consider what the most successful properties have in common and use that as a guide to help you find the best investment.
Kimberly Kelly decided to get her real estate license when she moved to South Orange with her family and fell in love with the classic, period homes of the area. Having worked in the city for many years for LexisNexis, Kim understands the appeal of an easy commute to NYC. That’s why she specializes in towns along the Mid-Town Direct train line, offering welcoming communities, good schools, and space to grow.
Very active in her children’s school PTA, Kim knows firsthand how important a school system is to parents looking to make the move to the ‘burbs. She volunteers with fairs, fundraising, and other activities that bolster support for education. Kim also believes involvement in the greater community enriches us all and has sat on various boards & associations throughout the years.
Kim Kelly has lived many places throughout her life, from Pennsylvania to Oregon, but has found New Jersey to be the ideal place to raise her family and put down roots. She loves nothing more than helping others discover their special place as well. Kim’s extensive knowledge of the area, combined with her sense of community, offers clients a personalized guide to finding the right house - and town - to call home.
