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Time is Ripe for Investing in Chester County PA Real Estate

by Scott Darling

If you're thinking about investing in a rental property, experts say low home prices combined with low interest rates make this the best time in years to become a real-estate investor.  Couple this with the increase in potential renters housesdue to foreclosures and the recent shaky economy, and you may well decide to become a first-time investor in Chester County PA real estate

It isn’t difficult to get into the real estate investing world. In fact, it’s rather easy. But it does require being smart and dedicated—and avoiding easy-to-make mistakes. These tips for a first time real estate investor should be beneficial in helping you become more knowledgeable and competent in sidestepping common pitfalls.

  • Tip 1:  Educate yourself:  Visit numerous online sites, consult with seasoned investors of Chester County PA real estate, become familiar with terms and jargon, investigate lending procedures, explore possible locations, and analyze your personal financial situation.  Carefully researched knowledge will keep unpleasant surprises at bay.
     
  • Tip 2:  Formulate a plan:  Most experts advise first-timers to limit their initial investments to residential Chester County PA real estate (many recommend concentrating on foreclosures) and to know in advance how much of a “fixer-upper” they want to take on.  Predetermining preferred locations (think in terms of schools, insurance rates, job availability, taxes, amenities, etc.) is also essential, as is deciding whether you will manage the property yourself.
     
  • Tip 3:  Get your ducks in a row:  Speak to potential lenders or even a financial planner about whether you have enough assets to handle the ups and downs that could come with investing. Even if you plan to rent out the property, count on paying the mortgage whenever there's a vacancy.  It’s certainly a good idea to get pre-approved for an investment property loan.  It’s also useful to line up individuals/companies who can take care of various maintenance needs before you need their services for your Chester County PA investment real estate.
     
  • Tip 4:  Be patient, but persevere:  As the market recovers, finding the “perfect” property is becoming more difficult, but it is not impossible.  Once you figure out where to look, you’ll be able to find them more easily, and you’ll start making money!  Be forewarned: there will be numerous high and low points in your stint as an investor, but if you are confident about your plan and are determined to work towards it, odds are you’ll succeed!

Be an Informed Investor in Chester County Real Estate

by Scott Darling

Investing in Chester County real estate can be quite profitable and safe. Such a transaction can also be challenging, especially for first-time investors, and requires prior planning, a time commitment, realistic goals, and careful consideration of the following factors.

  1. chester county real estateSelecting a property. First decide on a location and the type of property you are interested in. You might also consider proximity to good schools, public services, shopping centers, highways, etc.

    Another decision will deal with the type of property you want to own--a single family residence, a multi-family unit, or a vacation rental home. Discuss with you realtor and tax advisor the pros and cons of each to decide which will be most advantageous for you.
  2. Examining your finances. In addition to a monthly mortgage payment, investment property expenses can also include taxes, property management fees, utilities, insurance for fire and floods, repair and maintenance costs, condo fees, and periods of vacancy. Be prepared to have cash on hand for a 20% to 30% down payment (or investigate other options). A helpful tool to assist you in calculating costs and probable financial outcomes is www.goodmortgage.com.

    Also keep in mind that long term (5 to 10 years) ownership is usually best for the average investment. The shorter the length of time you hold the property, the greater the risk.
  3. Repairing and updating. Some investment properties require initial repairs/renovation ranging from cosmetic to structural. Unless you have the time and expertise needed to make such repairs, look for skilled professional to do the work for you. Keep in mind that most renters are looking for a good location and a home that is clean and in good working order; granite counter tops and top of the line appliances are usually neither necessary nor cost effective.
  4. Acting as a landlord. Being a successful absentee owner of Virginia Beach real estate will require diligence and responsibility. Carefully screen all potential tenants. Run a credit check and find out from prior landlords if they were good tenants who paid the rent on time, treated the property with care, and were considerate neighbors. The more selective you are, the more successful your lessor/lessee relations will be.

As a landlord you have both rights and responsibilities, and you need to be mindful of each. The Pennsylvania Landlord and Tenant Act covers rental agreements, remedy provisions, application fees, security deposits, and a wealth of other information and laws relating to the rights and responsibilities of both the landlord and the tenant.

Learn more about investing in Chester County real estate.

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