How to Invest in Real Estate and Keep a Full Time Job
Real estate is one of the most attractive investments among those seeking to invest. It is one of the few products that frequently appreciates in value as opposed to depreciating. One of the biggest issues to be an active real estate investor, however, is that it can be time-consuming. Many real estate investors have full-time jobs that keep them from being on call around the clock to address concerns. That is why the following list of three ways to invest in real estate and hold down a full-time job at the same time has been created. The suggestions are, in no particular order, as follows:
- Proper Tenant Screening
- Utilizing Automation
- Considering REIT’s
Proper Tenant Screening
Choosing the wrong tenants can be a nightmare. Rent always seems to be late and property owners are shelling out above average amounts of cash to fix appliances that keep breaking. To avoid this, be sure to properly vet tenants in a rental property. This way, the risk of not receiving payments in a timely fashion are minimized and someone who will respect the real estate is occupying it. Doing the legwork up front can save thousands of dollars in real estate investing costs down the road.
Utilizing Automation
With modern advances in technology, it is easier than ever to automate so many different aspects of a real estate investment. Billing can now be done without ever lifting a finger. A bill reminder will automatically be sent to the renters of a property. Payments can then automatically be deposited into the owner’s account. Because owners also often take care of other aspects like the electric and water bills, these processes can be taken care of through automation as well as saving both time and resources.
Considering REIT’s
Real Estate Investment Trusts, or REIT’s, are a great way to invest in real estate without actually having to manage a physical property. REIT’s trade just like stocks and the amount of money an investor puts in is their share of the total property ownership of the REIT. REIT’s are required by law to distribute dividends which take the place of more traditional rent. The returns may not be quite as high as owning a physical property, but it is a great way to enter the space without a huge time commitment.
