Choose a Property Type
There are two primary classifications of multi-family rental properties, which should be the first thing to understand. A multifamily building with four or fewer units is considered residential, whereas a property with more than four units is typically considered commercial. 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. In contrast, commercial property is acquired with a commercial loan and is calculated based on a value formula, not comparable properties. For those who have never purchased a commercial property, doing so can be extremely difficult, which is why the majority of landlords start out with smaller multi-family homes.
More Units = More Preparation
Even if you decide to purchase a multifamily home with four or fewer units, greater planning is required than when purchasing single-family rental properties. In any profitable rental, for instance, location is always important. Location can be crucial for multi-family buildings, especially if it’s close to amenities like public transportation. The cost of living, crime rate, and median income in the area should all be carefully considered. Despite the fact that looking up statistics online can be useful, they do not always tell the whole story. This is notably true in regions that have undergone recent (positive or negative) changes. Make time to drive through the neighborhood and visit the local police station in addition to your other homework to gain a more realistic understanding of the region.
Prepare Your Finances
Before beginning your property quest, you should investigate lenders and organize your finances. Choose a lender with a track record of assisting investors with the purchase of the type of property you intend to acquire. Additionally, you will need to provide evidence of your creditworthiness, such as income and expense statements from your current rental properties. Be prepared to provide additional documents if requested in order to qualify for a loan on a multifamily property. For a loan on a single-family home, you may not be required to provide certain documents or information.
Hire the Right People
Having the appropriate experts on your team is crucial for expanding up to multi-family buildings. For instance, you will need to discover and hire a real estate agent with the necessary expertise and knowledge. 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. As a local market expert, they contribute significant value throughout the purchase process and the duration of your ownership.
Are you ready to get started? To find out more about the many high-quality services we offer, get in touch with your nearby Real Property Management office.