Orlando is a dynamic rental market with some outstanding opportunities for real estate investors. You can expect to earn some short-term cash flow and watch your investment appreciate in value. Investing here is a smart financial move.
Most first-time investors find there are numerous benefits to buying a rental property and plenty of challenges as well. And, there will always be some unexpected surprises.
If you’re investing in real estate for the first time, check out these tips from an Orlando property management company that specializes in residential rental homes. We’re here to help you avoid the expensive and time-consuming mistakes that many first-time investors tend to make.
Buy the Right Orlando Investment Property
When you’re investing in real estate, you need to know what you’re looking for and how the acquisition will fit your investment goals. Don’t get emotionally involved with the homes you’ve viewing and remember you aren’t choosing a property for yourself. Think like a tenant. Look for a well-maintained home in a desirable neighborhood that will be easy to rent.
Many first-time investors make the mistake of buying a cheap property that needs a lot of work. This is not a great strategy when you’re starting out as an investor. The work that’s needed means there will be a delay in getting that property listed on the market. While the prices are certain to be lower than other homes on the market, the amount you’ll have to spend to get that property into rent-ready condition may be more than you expect. Not only will you have to invest in repairs and rehab, you’ll also wait longer to begin earning rental income.
Pricing Your Orlando Rental Property
New investors are often unsure about how to establish a reliable rental value for their property. You’ll want to gather some reliable data before you buy your property so you will know what to expect in terms of rental rates and tenant pools. Find out what you can expect to earn and how long it will take you to find a well-qualified tenant.
Your rental price is really market-driven. It doesn’t matter how much cash flow you’re after or what you’ll need to make your mortgage and tax payments. Evaluate the Orlando market thoroughly and check the prices for competing properties that are similar to yours.
Once you’re ready to list your rental home, price it competitively. An overpriced home will lead to a longer vacancy, and that’s going to hurt you financially.
Prioritize Preventative Rental Property Maintenance
Maintenance is always going to cost money, and that can be difficult for new investors to accept. But, you don’t want to risk devaluing your property or allowing its condition to deteriorate. Deferred maintenance will also lead to frustrated tenants who are unlikely to renew their leases. When a tenant makes a maintenance request, respond to it right away, or at least let the tenants know when you’ll be able to take care of the problem.
Handling problems while they’re small will save you money and avoid headaches. It’s hot in Orlando, and there’s an annual threat of hurricanes and tropical storms. You’ll need to do some seasonal preventative maintenance, and you’ll need to service and inspect your HVAC system, irrigation, and plumbing routinely.
Work with an Orlando Property Manager
Unless you have the time, knowledge, and experience to manage an income-producing property on your own, hire a professional Orlando property manager. You need someone who knows the local market and understands the property management industry. Find a company that can accurately price the home, market it, and screen for highly qualified residents.
Look for a management company that has good relationships with local vendors and has a reputation for helping owners earn more and spend less on their investment.
Consider our team when you’re looking for great management. We have a deep knowledge of the local market, and we work with a national brand to ensure we’re at the forefront of all the changing technology and best practices that lead to better management. Contact us at RE/MAX 200.
