The recent economic downturn has affected prices of real estate properties in almost all localities in the United States. With economists predicting an upswing in the economy, now is the time for investing in real estate. If you have the money to make the down payment and sufficient borrowing capacity, you should seriously look into the option of buying either a second residential property or a commercial property - either of which can easily be rented out.
As any pro in the real estate business will tell you, the key factor that makes a property desirable is its location. By locating a property in a neighborhood that is both safe and clean, you can be sure that your real estate investing decision will pay richly. Proximity to good schools too is a factor that increases the value of a residential property. Commercial real-estate, on the other hand, needs to be located in or close to the business district. It also needs to be easily accessible by both customers and employees.

Kamal Sehgal

When you choose to become a real-estate investor you have a few options before you. You need to inspect the property depending on whether you plan to hold the property for the long term or sell it within a few months. If you are a long term investor, calculate the cost of repairs before the property can be rented out and add this to the total cost of your purchase. You can also choose to invest through a real estate group or a REIT, a real estate investment trust. These function like mutual funds and are governed or managed by a professional. Though you need to pay fees for the manager, you have an easier time as you do not need to actively look for a property to invest in or deal with the nitty-gritty of locating a suitable tenant. This mode of investing in real estate also limits your exposure to the vagaries of this market. By choosing a good REIT and placing your funds in it, you can sit back and reap the benefits without further effort.

Though many offer estate investing advice, following such advice in real life is not easy. There are many variables that one has to consider and many contingencies that one has to plan for. For instance, if you plan to pay back the mortgage from the rent you receive, you need some reserve cash or periods when your investment lies vacant or unoccupied. By planning for such situations, you are more likely to be able to reap handsome profits from your investment.

The main thing you need to keep in mind when on the look out for a good real-state investment is the location. While a run down building can be restored, the location cannot be changed. Both tenants and prospective buyers will be ready to pay a premium for a desirable location - one that is safe, clean, and near amenities such as schools, clubs, and shops.