top of page
Search

💰 What to Look for When Buying a Rental Property 🏡

  • Writer: Riley Rentwell
    Riley Rentwell
  • Mar 26
  • 2 min read

Investing in a rental property can be a smart way to build wealth and generate passive income—but only if you buy the right one. 👀 Whether you’re eyeing a cozy cabin in the woods or a downtown duplex, here’s what you should be looking for before signing on the dotted line. ✍️


1. Location, Location, Location 📍

The neighborhood is everything. Look for areas with:

  • Strong rental demand

  • Good schools 🏫

  • Low crime rates 🚔

  • Amenities like parks, shops, and transit 🚉

A great location = higher rent potential + lower vacancy risk.

2. Cash Flow Potential 💸

Will the rent cover your expenses and leave some profit? Calculate:

  • Mortgage

  • Property taxes

  • Insurance

  • Maintenance

  • Property management fees (if applicable)

Use the 1% rule as a quick check: if the monthly rent is at least 1% of the purchase price, it’s worth a deeper look.

3. Condition of the Property 🔧

Fixer-uppers can be great deals—or money pits. 🕳️ Get a full inspection and consider:

  • Roof, foundation, HVAC 🏚️

  • Plumbing & electrical ⚡

  • Cosmetic vs. structural repairs

Don’t forget to budget for repairs and the time it’ll take before it's rent-ready.

4. Tenant Appeal 👀

Ask yourself: Would I want to live here?

  • Is it clean and well-maintained?

  • Is there natural light? ☀️

  • Is there parking? A yard? Laundry? 🧺

The more livable and appealing, the easier it’ll be to attract (and keep) great tenants.

5. Rental Comps in the Area 📊

Check nearby listings to find out:

  • What similar properties are renting for 💵

  • How long they stay on the market 🕒

  • Vacancy rates

This tells you what income you can realistically expect—and if you’re overpaying.

6. Legal & Zoning Considerations 🧾

Make sure:

  • The property is zoned for rentals

  • There are no short-term rental restrictions (if that’s your strategy)

  • Local landlord-tenant laws work in your favor ⚖️

No one wants to buy a property they can’t legally rent out.

7. Exit Strategy 🏁

What’s your long-term plan?

  • Hold and rent for cash flow?

  • Renovate and refinance?

  • Flip later on?

Know how this property fits into your overall investment goals.

Final Thoughts ✨

Buying a rental property isn’t just about the house—it’s about the numbers, the neighborhood, and your long-term game plan. 🧠 Do your research, run the math, and don’t let emotions drive the deal.


Painter walking towards a white house carrying paint cans. Wearing a red cap, denim shirt, and paint-splattered jeans. Ladder nearby.
A person approaches a charming white house with paint cans in hand, preparing to rejuvenate the rental property with a fresh coat and some handy repairs.

 
 
 

Comments


Get more info

Learn About Our Property Management Services

Learn more about the services we provide to ensure ease and peace to mind when it comes to the management of your rental property or HOA.

CONTACT US

Thanks for submitting!

  • Facebook - White Circle

© 2020 by KRS Property Management

bottom of page