How to Start Investing in Real Estate: 5 Ways

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First-Time Real Estate Investor? Ways to Get Started

Owning rental property can be a way to build long-term wealth and create additional income. But getting started can feel intimidating, especially if you are unsure where the money will come from or how to manage tenants. The good news is that there are several approaches designed for people just starting out. Here are some practical ways to take your first step.

1. Live in One Unit and Rent the Others

One of the most popular entry points is buying a duplex, triplex or fourplex and living in one of the units. Often called house hacking, this approach lets rental income from the other units help cover your mortgage while you learn the ropes of being a landlord up close.

Because you live there, you may be able to use owner-occupied financing, which often comes with lower down payment requirements than a pure investment loan. For example, FHA loans allow 3.5% down with a credit score of 580 or higher on properties of up to four units when you live in one, and conventional options may also be available. Program rules apply, so talk with a loan officer about what fits.

2. Understand Your Financing Options

If you are not planning to live in the property, you will typically use investment property financing. These loans often require a larger down payment and more reserves than a primary home loan. Options may include:

Conventional investment loans: Based on your personal income and credit
DSCR loans: Qualify based mainly on the property’s rental income compared with its expenses, which can help self-employed borrowers or those growing a portfolio

Learn more about investment property loans and DSCR loans. If you already own a home with equity, some investors use a home equity line of credit toward a down payment, though that adds debt secured by your home.

3. Team Up With a Partner

Partnering with a friend, family member or experienced investor can reduce how much money you need on your own and share the work and risk. A partner with experience can also help you avoid common beginner mistakes.

Before you buy together, put everything in writing: who contributes what, how decisions are made, how profits and expenses are split and what happens if someone wants out. A real estate attorney can help you structure the arrangement.

4. Learn Before You Leap

Investing goes more smoothly when you understand the numbers and the responsibilities. Ways to build knowledge include:

Reading books and listening to podcasts from reputable investors
Attending local real estate investor meetups or workshops
Studying rents, vacancy and property taxes in neighborhoods you are considering
Learning local landlord-tenant laws and short-term rental rules
Talking with property managers, agents, accountants and lenders

Practice analyzing deals. Estimate rent, then subtract the mortgage, taxes, insurance, maintenance, vacancy and management costs to see whether the property makes sense.

5. Start Where the Numbers Work

Your first investment does not need to be in an expensive, high-profile area. More affordable markets with steady rental demand can let you get started with less capital and gain experience. Look for areas with stable employment, good access to amenities and reasonable property taxes and insurance costs.

Also consider how hands-on you want to be. Managing a property yourself saves money but takes time. Hiring a property manager costs more but frees you from late-night maintenance calls.

Plan for the Unexpected

Every rental has surprises: a vacancy that lasts longer than expected, a broken water heater or a tenant who pays late. Keep cash reserves for repairs and empty months so one setback does not derail your plans.

Take Your First Step With FLO Mortgage

Whether you are thinking about a duplex you can live in or your first standalone rental, FLO Mortgage can help you explore financing that fits your strategy. Talk with one of our loan officers to get started.

Have questions about your next move?

A FLO Mortgage loan officer can walk through your options, run real numbers and help you choose a loan that fits.

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This article is for general education and is not a commitment to lend. All loans are subject to credit approval, underwriting guidelines and program availability. FLO Mortgage, Company NMLS #1835856. Equal Housing Opportunity.