HOW TO PROTECT YOUR FINANCES & REAL ESTATE WHEN THE NEXT RECESSION HITS
As the economy ebbs and flows, preparing for the inevitable downturns becomes crucial for safeguarding your finances and real estate investments. While the thought of another recession may feel daunting and leave you feeling queasy, with careful planning and strategic actions, you can increase the resilience of your portfolio and enhance your ability to navigate any challenges. MY SMART COUSIN is here to help you with your Real Estate investment needs. Whether you’re looking for guidance on getting started in Real Estate investment and buying a house for the price of a car, or specific strategies suited to your particular life events, we’ve got you covered. As a Real estate Investment Coach, we are committed to helping all clients create financial security and wealth, with a special focus on Black and Brown folks and women. In this blog, we will explore essential steps and strategies to protect your financial well-being and real estate holdings during an economic downturn. BUILDING A SOLID FINANCIAL FOUNDATION STRENGTHENING REAL ESTATE INVESTMENTS IMPLEMENTING RISK MITIGATION STRATEGIES ADOPTING A LONG-TERM MINDSET FINAL THOUGHTS While recessions are an inevitable part of the economic cycle, proactive planning and thoughtful strategies can help protect your finances and real estate investments. By building a solid financial foundation, strengthening your real estate portfolio, implementing risk mitigation strategies, and adopting a long-term mindset, you can navigate through economic downturns with confidence and emerge stronger on the other side. Remember, preparation and resilience are key to safeguarding your financial well-being and capitalizing on opportunities that arise even in the toughest of times. In the face of uncertainty, remember that knowledge is power. Continually educate yourself, adapt to changing market conditions, and make informed decisions to secure your financial future and weather any economic storm that may come your way. YOU CAN ALSO READ: HOW CHATGPT CAN HELP REAL ESTATE INVESTORS CREATE EFFECTIVE MARKETING MATERIALSFOLLOW US: @MYSMARTCOUSIN
HOW TO PROFIT FROM SHORT-TERM RENTALS: AIRBNB, VRBO AND MORE
In today’s sharing economy, the concept of short-term rentals has gained immense popularity. Platforms like Airbnb, VRBO and HomeAway have revolutionized the way people travel and find accommodations. If you have an empty space or property, why not turn it into a profitable asset? At MY SMART COUSIN, we want you to get into property ownership! We can help by providing expertise and resources for budding Real Estate Investors and homebuyers of all stripes–especially those looking to buy a house for the price of a car! As Real Estate Investment Coaches, we work closely with aspiring real estate investors, focusing especially on Black and Brown folks and women, to position you for success in developing and executing your plan for investment and building generational wealth. In this blog, we will explore how you can profit from short-term rentals, providing you with valuable insights and practical tips to make the most out of this exciting venture. UNDERSTANDING THE SHORT-TERM RENTAL MARKET The rise of the sharing economy has transformed the way people travel, particularly for those who prioritize unique experiences over traditional hotel stays. Short-term rentals have witnessed exponential growth due to this shift in consumer behavior. Platforms like Airbnb, VRBO,l and others have emerged as the go-to choices for travelers seeking authentic and affordable accommodations. Understanding the growth potential and demand in your target market will help you make informed decisions. SETTING UP YOUR SHORT-TERM RENTAL BUSINESS To succeed in the short-term rental market, finding the right property is crucial. Location, amenities and the target market play a significant role in attracting guests. Once you have the property, prepare it for guests by focusing on interior design, cleanliness and essential amenities. Setting competitive pricing strategies and crafting an appealing listing with captivating descriptions and high-quality visuals will help your property stand out from the competition. MANAGING YOUR SHORT-TERM RENTAL OPERATIONS Creating a seamless guest experience is key to running a successful short-term rental business. Effective communication, efficient check-in/out processes and ensuring guest satisfaction are paramount. Utilizing calendar tools and automation software streamlines bookings and reservations. Establishing cleaning and maintenance protocols, as well as implementing security measures and insurance coverage, will help maintain the integrity and safety of your property. MAXIMIZING PROFITABILITY THROUGH MARKETING AND OPTIMIZATION To maximize your rental’s profitability, you need to establish a strong online presence. Optimizing your listing, utilizing search engine optimization (SEO) techniques, and leveraging social media are effective strategies. Encourage positive reviews by delivering exceptional guest experiences. Additionally, use dynamic pricing strategies in which pricing changes daily, weekly, seasonally or based on demand or market trends, to significantly boost your revenue. Finally, exploring complementary online platforms, partnerships and niche markets can expand your reach and potential customer base. OVERCOMING CHALLENGES AND MITIGATING RISKS Running a short-term rental business comes with its challenges. Dealing with difficult guests, minimizing downtime, staying informed about legal and regulatory changes and contingency planning are essential aspects to consider. Conflict resolution skills, strategies for consistent bookings, staying updated on compliance requirements, and preparing for unforeseen circumstances are vital to mitigate risks and ensure smooth operations. WRAPPING IT ALL UP Venturing into the world of short-term rentals offers tremendous potential for profitability and financial independence. By understanding the market, setting up your rental business effectively, managing operations efficiently and implementing strategic marketing techniques, you can unlock the true potential of your property. However, it’s crucial to remain adaptable and proactive, continuously learning and staying up-to-date with the latest industry trends and best practices. With dedication, attention to detail and a commitment to exceptional guest experiences, your short-term rental business can flourish, providing you with a rewarding and profitable venture. So, are you ready to dive into the exciting world of short-term rentals and start reaping the benefits? The opportunity awaits, and with the right knowledge and approach, success is within your grasp. YOU CAN ALSO READ: HOW TO USE SOCIAL MEDIA TO GROW YOUR REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT BUSINESSFOLLOW US: @MYSMARTCOUSIN
HOW TO INVEST IN REAL ESTATE WITH A LIMITED BUDGET: CREATIVE SOLUTIONS AND STRATEGIES
Investing in real estate has long been considered a lucrative wealth-building strategy. However, one common misconception is that real estate investing requires a substantial amount of capital. The truth is, even with a limited budget, there are creative solutions and strategies that can help aspiring investors enter the market. At MY SMART COUSIN, we help budding home buyers and real estate investors conceptualize, fund and build their real estate portfolios. As seasoned coaches, we work with clients to penetrate the lucrative market of buying a house for the price of a car. We work with a broad range of clients and focus, in particular, on Black and Brown folks and women, to develop a detailed roadmap unique to each client. In this blog, we will explore various approaches to investing in real estate with a limited budget, empowering you to take your first steps towards building wealth through property investments. RESEARCH AND EDUCATION Before diving into real estate investing, it’s crucial to dedicate time to research and education. Familiarize yourself with the local real estate market, learn about different investment strategies, and understand the potential risks and rewards associated with each. Books, podcasts, online courses and networking events are valuable resources to expand your knowledge and gain insights from experienced investors. By equipping yourself with the necessary information, you’ll be better prepared to make informed decisions and maximize the returns on your limited investment budget. PARTNER WITH OTHERS Collaborating with other investors or forming partnerships can be an effective way to pool resources and invest in real estate. Seek out like-minded individuals who share your investment goals and complement your skills and expertise. By combining your resources, you can collectively afford properties that may have been out of reach individually. Partnership arrangements can take various forms such as joint ventures, limited liability companies (LLCs) or real estate investment groups. It’s essential to establish clear agreements, including the division of responsibilities, profits and exit strategies, to ensure a mutually beneficial partnership. EXPLORE FINANCING OPTIONS Limited budget doesn’t necessarily mean limited financing options. Explore various financing avenues to leverage your investment capital. Here are a few options to consider: CREATIVE INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Limited budgets require innovative approaches to real estate investing. Consider the following strategies to make the most of your resources: WRAPPING IT ALL UP Investing in real estate with a limited budget requires creativity, resourcefulness and a willingness to explore alternative strategies. By conducting thorough research, partnering with others, exploring financing options, and implementing creative investment strategies, aspiring investors can overcome financial constraints and embark on their real estate journey. Remember, patience, persistence and a long-term perspective are key when navigating the real estate market. With careful planning and strategic decision-making, you can grow your wealth and achieve financial success in the exciting world of real estate investing, even with a limited budget. YOU CAN ALSO READ: THE PROS AND CONS OF INVESTING IN RAW LAND: IS IT RIGHT FOR YOU?FOLLOW US: @MYSMARTCOUSIN
WHEN THE HOUSING MARKET REBOUNDS, SHOULD YOUR REAL ESTATE INVESTING STRATEGY CHANGE?
The housing market can fluctuate for a variety of reasons, including economic conditions, population growth, and changes in interest rates. Real Estate Investment can be a great investment in a volatile market, but it requires knowledge and expertise. MY SMART COUSIN specializes in providing those venturing into Real-Estate Investing with tailored solutions for every aspect of owning property, from buying a house for the price of a car, all the way through managing them once they’re yours! Whether you need our expert advice for future plans or an investment that’s in the works, we can help you develop and implement your strategy to optimize returns. HOUSING REBOUNDS – WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR REAL ESTATE INVESTORS As the housing market begins to thaw post-COVID-19, real estate investors may be wondering what this means for their investments. Here are a few key things to consider: Increased demand: One of the main benefits of a housing market rebound is that it typically leads to increased demand for housing. This can be especially true in areas where the pandemic has led to a slowdown in housing activity. As more people start to look for homes, this can lead to increased competition for properties and potentially higher prices. Increased supply: With a rebounding housing market, it’s likely that there will be an increase in the supply of properties. This could be due to a number of factors, including homeowners who were previously unable to sell finally putting their homes on the market, or builders who were unable to start new construction projects due to lockdowns starting work again. While an increase in supply may lead to more competition for investors, it can also provide more opportunities to find good deals. Higher prices: A strengthening housing market often leads to rising home prices triggered by increased demand, a decrease in the supply of available homes, or a combination of both. While higher prices can be good news for homeowners and sellers, they may be less appealing for buyers and investors looking to enter the market. Increased financing options: As the housing market rebounds, it’s likely that lenders will become more willing to lend to buyers and investors. This could lead to an increase in financing options, including lower interest rates and more flexible terms. While this can be good news for buyers and investors, it’s important to carefully consider the terms and conditions of any financing options and make sure that they are a good fit for your needs. DEFINING YOUR REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT STRATEGY IN A REBOUNDING MARKET When the housing market rebounds, it may be a good opportunity for real estate investors to reassess their investment strategy. Here are a few factors to consider when evaluating whether your real estate investing strategy should change. Current Market Conditions: One of the first things to consider is current market conditions. This includes factors such as the overall strength of the economy, the demand for housing in different areas, and the availability of financing. By understanding the current market conditions, you can better determine what types of properties and investments are likely to be most successful. Your Long-Term Goals Another important factor to consider when deciding if your real estate investing strategy should change is your long-term goals. Are you looking to build a long-term portfolio of rental properties, or are you more interested in flipping houses for short-term profits? Your long-term goals will help guide your investment strategy and determine what types of properties and investments make the most sense for you. Your Risk Tolerance Real estate investing involves some level of risk, and it’s important to understand your own risk tolerance when deciding if your investing strategy should change. Are you comfortable taking on more risk in order to potentially earn higher returns, or do you prefer to play it safe and focus on more stable investments? Your risk tolerance will help guide your investment decisions and determine what types of properties and investments are most appropriate for you. Your Current Portfolio Another factor to consider is your current portfolio. Do you have a diverse mix of properties and investments, or are you heavily concentrated in a particular market or asset class? By evaluating your current portfolio, you can identify any potential vulnerabilities or areas where you may be over-exposed, and adjust your strategy accordingly. Your Financial Resources Finally, it’s important to consider your financial resources when deciding if your real estate investing strategy should change. Do you have the financial resources to take on more risk and potentially earn higher returns, or do you need to focus on more stable investments? Your financial resources will help guide your investment decisions and determine what types of properties and investments are most appropriate for you. FINAL THOUGHTS Overall, the decision to change your Real Estate investment strategy will depend on a number of factors, including current market conditions, your long-term goals, your risk tolerance, your current portfolio, and your financial resources. By carefully considering these factors, you can determine what types of properties and investments are most likely to be successful in the current market, and adjust your strategy accordingly. YOU CAN ALSO READ: CONDO VS. TOWNHOUSE: WHICH IS THE BETTER INVESTMENT? FOLLOW US: @MYSMARTCOUSIN
HOW TO USE A SELF-DIRECTED IRA TO INVEST IN REAL ESTATE
Are you considering investing in Real Estate but don’t know where to start? A Self-Directed IRA (SDIRA) is an increasingly popular way for investors and homebuyers to acquire lucrative properties.
SYNDICATION INVESTING 101 – HOW TO INVEST PASSIVELY IN REAL ESTATE
In real estate, as in any other industry, there are varying levels of investment. For the average person, buying a home is their biggest investment. And as sweet as buying a home of your own is, almost nothing beats the feeling of buying a house for the price of a car. However, for those who want to put more money to work and see greater returns, a real estate syndication is an option worth exploring. Syndication investing can be done passively, which makes it a very attractive proposition for those who don’t have the time or inclination to become full-time real estate investors. Whether you’re an investor, home-buyer, or seller—MY SMART COUSIN can help. We specialize in real estate investments for aspiring homeowners and investors, with a special focus on Black and Brown folks and women. As your Real Estate Investment Coach, we walk you through all aspects of owning property, from evaluating markets and identifying appropriate strategies, to identifying opportunities and securing financing. Whether you’re seeking to buy a house for the price of a car, our personal favorite way of investing, or purchase higher-end property, we’ll help you develop and execute a strategy that is custom-tailored for you. In this blog post, we will explore what syndication investing is, and how you can get involved without having to do a lot of legwork yourself. Let’s get started! WHAT IS SYNDICATION INVESTING AND HOW DOES IT WORK? Syndication investing is when a group of investors pool their money together to purchase a property. The group will then elect one or more people to act as the property manager. The property manager will be responsible for day-to-day operations, ranging from screening and securing tenants, to addressing maintenance issues and keeping the property move-in ready. As an example, if a group of ten investors is interested in purchasing a $1 million apartment building, with each contributing the same sum of money, each investor would only need to contribute $100,000 to secure a property that would otherwise be way outside of their budget. Syndication investing also can provide passive income for investors, as each investor will receive a portion of the rent collected each month without taking on full-time operation and management duties. While there are many benefits to participating in a syndicate, it is important to remember that it still has risks, just as buying a property as a stand-alone investor does. Before investing, be sure to do your research and consult with a financial advisor to ensure that you are making a wise decision. THE BENEFITS OF SYNDICATION INVESTING If you’re thinking of investing in real estate, you might want to consider engaging as part of a larger group. In syndication, a group of investors comes together to pool their money and purchase a property. This can have several advantages: · First, it allows you to buy a property that you couldn’t afford on your own. · Second, it gives you access to an experienced management team who can make decisions and manage the property through the benefit of multiple perspectives and resources. · Finally, it spreads the risk among many investors, which can protect you if the property doesn’t perform as well as expected, or faces issues that you alone wouldn’t be able to address. HOW TO GET STARTED WITH SYNDICATION INVESTING A real estate syndication is a great way to invest in large-scale projects that require more manpower, time, and money than you can handle on your own. But it can be tough to get started if you don’t know where to begin. Here are a few tips: FIND A SPONSOR A sponsor is an experienced and often well-heeled real estate investor who will help you raise capital, find and purchase a property, and manage the day-to-day operations. Look for someone who has a successful track record and deep industry relationships. CONDUCT YOUR DUE DILIGENCE Once you’ve found a potential project, do your research to make sure it’s a good fit for your pocketbook, timetable, and risk tolerance. You’ll also want to vet the sponsor to make sure they’re experienced and trustworthy, and that you share a common investment philosophy. UNDERSTAND THE COMMITMENT While syndication investing is a passive investment, it is not without any work. Just as with a mutual fund or real estate investment trust, you will want to spend time analyzing the opportunity, both at the front end and ongoing to determine if performance metrics are being met. HOW TO FIND SYNDICATION INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN YOUR AREA Commercial real estate and large multifamily projects tend to be particularly fertile ground for syndications. The reason is that the amount of equity, debt financing, and technical expertise that must be brought to bear is more than one person has at their disposal in abundance. This means that there is a huge opportunity for those looking to invest in real estate to find syndication investment opportunities in these sectors. There are a few ways to go about finding them: · First is to search online for real estate syndicators, either by region or by property type. This can be done by searching for terms like “real estate syndication” or “property syndication” followed by your target geographic location (a state or region) or target real estate type (shopping center, apartment building, etc.). Online groups provide another avenue for finding syndicators. · Another option is to attend local and online real estate investor meetings. These are often advertised through real estate publications and networking groups. · Finally, you can reach out to accountants and financial advisors specializing in the real estate sector, real estate agents, and real estate brokers, and ask if they know of any syndication entities or upcoming syndication deals. FAQs ABOUT SYNDICATION INVESTING Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions that will help you better understand syndication investing. · WHAT IS A SYNDICATION? Syndication also called a syndicate, is simply a group of investors who come together
HOW TO ESTIMATE YOUR RENTAL PROPERTY EXPENSES
Breaking into the world of real estate investment can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. By estimating your expenses, you’ll have a better idea of what you’re getting into and whether the investment is worth your time and money. MY SMART COUSIN is here to help you realize your real estate investment goals. As a Real Estate Investment Coache, we have the skills and expertise that can position almost anyone for success in this competitive market. We help aspiring investors and homeowners, particularly, Black and Brown folks and women, develop and execute a customized, step-by-step plan to scale their finances and move from idea to action. With planning and persistence coupled with guidance from us, we will help you develop a portfolio and break into the most elusive of all real estate channels— buying a house for the price of a car. When structuring your first rental property acquisition, it’s important to estimate your expenses ahead of time. This will help you determine if the property is worth your investment, and whether you can afford it. There are a few different factors you’ll need to consider when projecting your expenses, so keep reading for more information. WHAT ARE THE MOST COMMON TYPES OF EXPENSES FOR A RENTAL PROPERTY? There are several different expenses that you may incur when you own a rental property. · Acquisition expenses are those expenses associated with the initial purchase of the property. These include fees charged by the mortgage lender, legal fees, and municipal or county fees associated with recording the deed. Importantly, the real estate commission will not be paid by you as the buyer— the seller pays the real estate commission, and that commission is split between the buyer’s real estate agent and the seller’s real estate agent. For instance, if the property you purchase costs $50,000 and the real estate commission rate is 6%, the resulting $3,000 commission will be paid by the seller and split 50/50 by the seller’s agent and buyer’s agent. · Rental leasing expenses are those expenses associated with finding and signing a renter, such as advertising and background checks. If you are managing the property yourself, then you will incur these costs, both in money and time. If you hire a property manager, then the property manager will charge you the first month’s rent (or a higher or lower amount, depending on the property management company), and that fee will be used to pay for the advertising, screening, and other renter-onboarding expenses. As an example, if your rental property is listed for a rent of $1,000 per month, then the first month’s rent will be paid directly to the property manager as their fee for finding and placing a tenant. Each time a new tenant is placed in the unit, the one-month fee will be charged. · Operating expenses are those expenses associated with the day-to-day operations of the property, such as maintenance materials, repair costs charged by handymen or contractors, and property insurance. As with the rental leasing expenses, if you hire a property manager, the property manager will charge a fee, ranging from a low of 5% to a high of 15%, depending on the market and the services provided. That fee will pay for the manager to communicate with the tenant on any issues with the property. · Finally, owner expenses are those expenses associated with your involvement in the property, such as travel costs to visit the property. By understanding all of these expense types, you can be better prepared for the financial commitment of owning a rental property. HOW TO ESTIMATE YOUR RENTAL PROPERTY EXPENSES If you’re considering acquiring and renting out a property, it’s important to have a clear understanding of all the associated costs. · CALCULATE THE MONTHLY MORTGAGE PAYMENT One of the biggest expenses you’ll need to account for is your mortgage payment, which comprises principal and interest. To calculate the principal, simply take the total amount you borrowed and divide it by your loan term. For example, if you owe $100,000 on your mortgage and have 20 years, or 240 months, mortgage, the principal portion of your monthly mortgage is $416. Your mortgage interest expense will equal the interest rate on your loan times your loan amount. · ADD IN THE QUARTERLY PROPERTY TAXES In addition to your mortgage payment, you’ll also need to factor in property taxes. These are typically paid every quarter, so you’ll need to divide the annual amount by four. For instance, if your annual property tax bill is $2,000, your quarterly property tax expense would be $500. . ESTIMATE MONTHLY HOMEOWNER’S INSURANCE PREMIUM To estimate your monthly homeowner insurance premiums, start by looking at the average cost of premiums in your area. Insurance rates and provisions vary by the insurer so be sure to get quotes from at least three companies. · INCLUDE ESTIMATED MONTHLY MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR COSTS Next, you’ll need to calculate an estimated monthly maintenance cost. This can be done by taking into account the age of your rental property and the expected wear and tear that it will experience over time. If you think your rental property will need major repairs or renovations in the near future, be sure to factor that into your estimate. By taking the time to calculate these monthly expenses, you can get a good idea of what it will cost to rent out your property each month. This information can help you make informed decisions about the appropriate rental rate to charge. · FACTOR IN ANY APPLICABLE VACANCY RATES OR LEASING FEES You’ll also need to factor in any applicable leasing fees. These can vary depending on the type of property and the location, but they’re typically a percentage of the total rent amount. · SUBTRACT POTENTIAL RENTAL INCOME TO GET YOUR NET OPERATING INCOME (NOI) To calculate your net operating income, take your potential rental income and subtract any vacancy loss,
A HOW-TO-GUIDE: RENT-TO-OWN A HOUSE
Are you a renter who’s tired of never quite feeling like you own your place? Or maybe you’re a homeowner who’s been through one too many costly repairs and is looking for a more affordable option? Owning and renting are the two most common options that people think of in real estate. Despite the hot real estate market, or perhaps one reflection of it, owning an affordable home has become the preferred strategy for participating in real estate, particularly if you do so by Buying a house for the price of a car. With MY SMART COUSIN we help familiarize prospective investors and homebuyers with the benefits of investing in properties, and more importantly, walk with them, step-by-step, through a customized roadmap to buying their house for the price of a car. If moving from planning to action sounds like just the medicine you need, we’re here to help you take your finances and investments in a new direction. We specialize in helping Black and Brown folks and women understand the benefits and mitigate the risks of investing through real estate purchases, and building a portfolio of monthly income. If feeling like you’re a perpetual renter with no clear path on how to step into home ownership sounds like you, then examine your current digs and ask, is it exactly the kind of nest that you’d like to own someday rather than continue renting. If the answer is yes, then rent-to-own might be a great vehicle to acquire a house. Rent-to-own, while open to everyone, is well-suited for those who need a little more time to line up a down payment, or to raise their credit score to qualify for a mortgage. In this article, we will outline everything you need to know about rent-to-own agreements and how they work. Keep reading to learn more! WHAT IS RENT-TO-OWN AND HOW DOES IT WORK? Rent-to-own agreements are contracts between a tenant and a landlord that give the renter the option to purchase the property they are renting at a later date. These agreements are typically used when the renter does not have the necessary down payment for a mortgage or is not able to qualify for one. Under a rent-to-own agreement, the landlord agrees to hold onto the property for an agreed-upon length of time, usually one to three years. During that time, the renter pays an amount above the normal rental price, which goes towards the eventual down payment required to purchase the property. At the end of the rental lease, the renter has the option to purchase the property, typically at a price agreed upon in advance. If the renter chooses not to purchase, they simply vacate the property, just as they would if they moved from a typical rental home, with no further obligation to the landlord. THE BENEFITS OF RENT-TO-OWN Many people dream of owning their own home, but the upfront cost can be cost-prohibitive. In addition, the process of securing a mortgage— particularly in the midst of today’s market uncertainty, what with high inflation, rising interest rates, and a looming recession— can be complex and unnerving. Rent-to-own arrangements offer an alternative path to homeownership. · SUFFICIENT TIME TO SAVE FOR A DOWN PAYMENT Rent-to-own can be a great option if your finances have you sidelined due to insufficient savings. With rent-to-own, time is your friend, giving you the flexibility and structure you need to save a specific amount of money by a fixed date. · CONVENIENT FINANCING Rent-to-own agreements often come with less stringent credit requirements, making it easier to qualify for financing. And, because a portion of your monthly rent payments will go toward the purchase price of the home, you’ll already have a head start on the financing. · BUILDS EQUITY A percentage of your rental payment goes towards the down payment or equity value of your home. As a consequence, with each monthly payment, you’ll be closer to becoming a homeowner and building equity in your house. · AMPLE AMOUNT OF TIME TO TEST YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD Rent-to-own can be a great way to look at your community through the eyes of a prospective property tax-paying homeowner. Conveniences and irritations regarding the neighborhood and nearby amenities can be evaluated anew and considered over a span of years before committing to a purchase. · THE OPPORTUNITY, AND OBLIGATION, TO OBTAIN FULL CONTROL OF THE PROPERTY Rent-to-own agreements can be structured to provide the tenant with both the right and responsibility to make a menu of maintenance decisions and design changes, without landlord input. In such instances where the tenant is given a free hand to customize the house, the costs are often paid by the tenant. Thus, should you decide to paint your home entirely in purple, for instance, your landlord’s approval, or more likely, swift disapproval, is not a factor. That said, the cost of this new aesthetic will be paid for by you. This latitude can be a big plus for people who want the flexibility to truly treat the home as their own and renovate it to their liking. · NO BURDEN OF TAXES OR PROPERTY INSURANCE Rent-to-own agreements often come with no requirement to pay property taxes or property insurance, which allows the tenant to try out homeownership without bearing the full cost of homeownership. If you’re considering a rent-to-own agreement, be sure to do your research and work with a reputable landlord. By understanding the process and being aware of the potential risks, you can ensure that rent-to-own is right for you. DISADVANTAGES OF RENT-TO-OWN While rent-to-own is a great way to get your foot in the door of homeownership, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider before signing on the dotted line. · First and foremost, once the lease period is up, you will still need to obtain a mortgage to purchase the property. · Additionally, the landlord may include clauses in the contract that make you responsible for their