Choose a Property Type
There are two main classes for multi-family rental properties, which is maybe the first thing to know. Four or fewer units in a multi-family structure qualify as a residential property, whereas five or more units are typically classified as a commercial property. In a number of ways, the scale of the multifamily property you wish to purchase will dictate how you search for, evaluate, and price it. For instance, buying single-family homes is equivalent to financing multi-family buildings with residential mortgages if there are four or less units. 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, location is always a crucial component of a profitable rental. However, for multifamily properties, location can be even more crucial, especially proximity to public transportation and other amenities. In addition, it’s essential to evaluate the area’s cost of living, crime rate, and average income. Despite the fact that looking up figures online can be beneficial, they don’t always provide the full picture. This is especially true in areas where recent changes (positive or negative) have occurred. 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 crucial to investigate lenders and organize your finances before you start looking for a home. Choose a lender with a track record of assisting investors with the purchase of the type of property you intend to acquire. You will also be required to provide supporting documentation for your creditworthiness, such as income and expense statements from your current rental properties. Be prepared to provide additional documentation when asked because you might be asked to provide information or paperwork for a loan on a multi-family property that you wouldn’t necessarily need 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 will need to locate and employ a real estate agent with the necessary skills and experience. Find one that specializes in the kind of multi-family property you wish to acquire, if at all possible. You might also want to benefit from a seasoned property management company’s local knowledge. They greatly benefit the purchasing process and the duration of your property ownership because they are local market experts.
Are you ready to get started? Contact your local Real Property Management office for more information on our wide range of superior services.