Is now the right time to invest in real estate?

A better question is whether the numbers work for you.

Nobody can time a market reliably, and waiting for a perfect moment keeps many people on the sidelines for years. A more useful question is whether a specific property works with your finances today.

Run the numbers on the property

Start with realistic rent for the area, then subtract the mortgage, taxes, insurance, association fees, a maintenance allowance and some months of vacancy. If what remains is positive with room for surprises, the property stands on its own regardless of what prices do next.

Look at your own position

Investment loans generally call for a larger down payment and stronger credit than a home you live in. You also want cash reserves so that one repair or one empty month does not put you under pressure.

Choose location for the tenant

Think about who will live there. Access to work, schools and shopping matters more to rental demand than finishes do. A plain house in a convenient location usually outperforms a beautiful one that is hard to reach.

If you would like help testing a property against these points, send me the address and I will go through it with you.

General information, not legal, tax or financial advice.