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8 Things Investors Wish They Knew Before Starting Out in CA

Many people want to invest, but hold themselves back out of fear of the unknown. In our latest post, we have compiled a list of things investors wish they knew before starting out in CA. Knowing these things will give you a solid start on your investment journey!

#1 – Keep Your Emotions in Check

BUying with emotion is something we have all done at one point or another. However, one of the worst times to do this is when you are making investments. Remind yourself that the property in an investment, not a home for yourself. Don’t buy a house out of your budget because you fell in love with the breakfast nook. Successful investing is a numbers game. Know your numbers and stick to them when buying an investment property in Orange County.

#2 – Don’t Wait Around For The Perfect Deal

Yes, you do need to stick to your numbers but don’t expect to find your dream home when buying an investment property in Orange County. Be open to compromise as long as the returns are what they need to be. Let’s say you were aiming to find a four-bedroom home to attract family tenants. However, you just found an amazing 2/2 in a great area. Don’t get so set on what you are looking for, that you miss out on an extremely lucrative deal.

#3 – How To Live For Free

A popular choice for investors, especially when just starting out, is to purchase an owner-occupied property. By using this strategy, you can qualify for a low-rate mortgage just like if you were to buy a single-family home for your use. You can buy a property with up to 4 units, or a large house if you are comfortable having roommates. The rent you receive each month should easily cover the mortgage and monthly maintenance, allowing you to put more cash in the bank.

 #4 – Know Your Numbers

Before making an investment in real estate, run your numbers and projections on each property you are thinking about buying. Know these numbers and don’t stray from them. Ask yourself, how much can you pay each month? How much do you need to make? Negotiate to get the numbers you need, and if they aren’t there, the deal isn’t likely right for you.

#5 – Be a Good Landlord

Strive to be the kind of landlord you would want to have. Imagine if your landlord went above and beyond to make sure his tenants were happy? Imploring this technique is likely to get you long-term, high-quality tenants who show respect for the property. Don’t skimp out on repairs and upgrade the house to keep it current with other properties in the area.On the flip side, make sure to fully screen all tenants, even if they come highly recommended. In order for you to be the great landlord, they need to hold up their end of the deal.

#6 – Invest In A Good Neighborhood

Many investors will tell you to never take a chance buying a property in a bad area, even if you have found an excellent deal. Invest in good neighborhoods and you will likely find tenants who will want to stay awhile. With high tenant turnover comes a high vacancy rate, which means you lose money. When buying an investment property in Orange County don’t take a chance in a bad neighborhood. Dealing with repairs, break-ins, and other common problems can be expensive and burdensome.

#7 – Look At Annual Numbers, Not Just Monthly

It great to know what you are spending and making each month on a property, however, it is important to look at the bigger picture. Consider your annual cash flow which will include vacancies, repairs, management costs, and property taxes. The costs on a property go far beyond the mortgage.

#8 – Always Have An Exit Strategy

As with any investment, you should always have an exit strategy in place. What if you don’t see the returns you were expecting? Or what if something happens in your life that requires you to sell quickly? Make sure to have an exit strategy in place so you are blindsided by the need to sell quickly.

Are you ready to invest in Orange County? We are here to help! Send us a message or give us a call today! 949-625-4533 

Joe

Broker/Realtor/Investor/Mentor (41 years experience) Specialties: Buyer's Agent, Listing Agent, Foreclosure, Short-Sale, Property Management, Landlord I'm a Full Time Real Estate Professional, house flipper and mentor to many of my clients. I am here to help you get top dollar for your home or get you the best price for a home that you are going to live in. I have over 40 years of real estate experience for you to draw on and actively list and sell over 20 homes a year. I have sold over 600+ homes in the last ten years alone. I am a very skillful negotiator and will work diligently to help you realize the best possible price when buying or selling your home. With my Exclusive Home Acquisition & Sales System, I can find the Right Home for You! I have access to homes no other Realtor will show you. I can show you how to save an average of $10,000.00 on the purchase price. We will find a home that fits your needs, in a neighborhood that suits your style. If you are selling your home then I can bring all the professionals to you. I always include professional photos in ALL my listings. I have contractors standing by to assist with those upgrades if needed. I can also quickly get you ALL CASH offers for your home if you desire. My marketing surpasses all other agents. It begins with extensive internet advertising to hundreds of websites throughout the world. I do direct mail marketing for you home and also knock on doors in your neighborhood when I am holding an open house. I hold you home open to expose it to as many buyers as possible. My Exclusive program is designed to sell your home for Top Dollar in Any market. I am an experienced flipper here in Orange County and therefore can offer you my over 40 years of real estate experience. The information is available to you at no charge! If you like what you see, please call me and setup Your Free Consultation.

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