Resources
Tools, checklists and plain-English definitions
Everything here is educational. Use it to pressure-test a property before you get emotionally invested.
Tools
Interactive tools
Investment Property Calculator
Mortgage, total monthly cost, cash flow, cash-on-cash return.
Stress Test
Lower rent, a vacant month, a $7,500 repair and a higher rate.
Investor Property Scorecard
Score 20 categories and get an investment score out of 100.
Property Comparison Tool
Two properties, same price, very different investments.
Checklist
The 10 questions we ask before buying
- 1What will it realistically rent for?
- 2What will it actually cost every month?
- 3What happens if it is vacant?
- 4What major expenses could occur?
- 5Are rentals permitted?
- 6What is the HOA's financial condition?
- 7Why will future tenants want this property?
- 8Why will future buyers want this property?
- 9Does the investment still work if our assumptions are slightly wrong?
- 10Would we still be comfortable owning it five or ten years from now?
Your team
Build your investment team
You don't need to know everything. You need the right people around you.
Real Estate Agents
Property selection, valuation, negotiation and transaction strategy
Lender
Financing structure
CPA
Tax strategy
Insurance Professional
Property and liability coverage
Home Inspector
Property condition
Escrow + Title
Closing and ownership transfer
Property Manager
Leasing and ongoing management
Attorney
Legal and ownership questions when appropriate
Ask us
Questions to ask us about any property
Found something interesting?
Send us the address before you get emotionally invested. We'll help you look at it through an investor's eyes.
- What have comparable homes sold for?
- What are similar properties actually renting for?
- How long are rentals taking to lease?
- Is the HOA investment-friendly?
- How does this compare with other available properties?
- What are the potential resale strengths?
- What concerns do we see?
- What questions should we investigate before making an offer?
Glossary
Glossary of investment terms
Have a question you don't see here? Read the FAQ or ask us directly.