Choose a Property Type
There are two primary classifications of multi-family rental properties, which may be the first thing to understand. Four apartments or fewer in a multi-family building are regarded as residential properties, whereas five or more units are typically regarded as commercial properties. How you look for, evaluate, and price a multifamily property will depend in large part on how big it is. For instance, multifamily properties with four or fewer units are typically financed with residential mortgages, a similar process to purchasing single-family homes. Contrarily, commercial real estate is bought using commercial financing and is valued using a formula rather than on the basis of nearby properties. Since purchasing a commercial property might be difficult for those who have never done it before, most landlords start out with smaller multi-family homes.
More Units = More Preparation
Even if you choose to purchase a multifamily property with four or fewer units, more preparation is required than when purchasing single-family rental properties. For instance, the location of a profitable rental property is always a crucial factor. The proximity of a home to facilities like public transportation or other multi-family housing, however, might make location even more crucial. The area’s cost of living, crime rate, and average income level should all be carefully considered. Even though looking up figures online can be useful, they don’t always give the complete story. This is especially valid in regions that have seen recent changes, whether they were favorable or unfavorable. In addition to your other research, take the time to travel through the area and visit the local police station to gain a more accurate understanding of the area.
Prepare Your Finances
It’s critical to investigate lenders and organize your finances before you start your property search. Depending on the kind of property you intend to purchase, pick a lender with a track record of assisting investors in doing so. The income and cost statements from your current rental properties are among the documentation you will need to gather to prove your creditworthiness. Be prepared to provide additional documentation when asked because you could need them to qualify for a loan on a multi-family property even though you wouldn’t necessarily need them for a single-family property.
Hire the Right People
Scaling up to multifamily properties successfully depends on having the appropriate professionals on your team. For instance, you’ll need to locate and employ a real estate agent with the appropriate training and expertise. Locate one that focuses on the kind of multi-family property you wish to purchase, if at all possible. You may also want to acquire the local knowledge of a professional property management firm. As a local market expert, they add substantial value to the buying process and the duration of your property ownership.
Are you ready to get started? To learn more about our many high-quality services, get in touch with your regional Real Property Management office.