When making a rental property investment, location is key. If you want to attract a certain type of tenant, you want a property in the right neighbourhood.
Do you want to rent to students?
Or is it families you'd like to have rent your property?
Remember that to limit the vacancy rate, you want a neighbourhood with low crime and small turnover rates.
People want to live in areas with good schools for their children to attend. Even if potential tenants don't have children at the time, decent schools are an indication of a desirable neighbourhood.
Check out the amount of property taxes before buying. Does this location allow you to charge the rent you need to cover the property taxes?
Are there a lot of listings for rentals in the area? If so, you'll have to lower the rent to compete for tenants. You want to buy in an area with few vacancies. You'll be in a position to charge higher rent.
What is the police presence?
Is crime declining or increasing?
Check out the crime reports. People are looking for homes in areas with low crime.
What kind of amenities are in the area?
Is there public transportation within walking distance?
Are there shops nearby?
How about parks and green spaces?
These are the types of things that attract good renters.
What is the average rent in the area?
This is important because you need to collect enough rent to cover your mortgage, taxes, and other expenses.
Plans for a highway near the property would turn off potential renter whereas plans for a park, community centre, or public transportation may attract renters.
Avoid areas prone to flooding or other natural disasters. Covering the cost of damages takes away from your potential profits.
Properties in areas with a strong job market attract newcomers to the area and create competition for rental properties.
Now that you know the features to look for in a rental property, you'll be sure to see a return on your investment if you seek out properties that meet the criteria.
Do your research and decide if the property is a worthwhile investment.
Do you know who can help you receive healthy and consistent returns on your property investments?
We at Home Path have made it our mission to make sure you're receiving a good return on your investment whilst minimising risk, rental void periods, and overall stress.