Do I need an accountant?

[Dan Fields]

Hi, I'm new to real estate investment. I recently purchased a 2 unit home in southern Maine. I couldn't be more excited about the purchase. I moved in Jan 1st but I realisticaly won't be getting a tenant in the other unit until March or April. We will be living in the other unit and are completely okay having a unit vacant for a few months while we figure out exactly how to go about the rental process. My question is a fairly simple one. Should I hire a real estate accountant? I'm leaning towards yes but I don't want to waste the money if I hear from everyone that an owner occupied 2 unit is simple enough to do on my own.

[Account Closed]

My goodness people.  Our industry requires an Accountant.  If you want to assure yourself of being audited, I'd say do your taxes yourself. 

You deal with tens of thousands of dollars of investments in your real estate.  And you deal with other people's money.  Do you think the Government won't have their eyes on you.   Just sayin!!!  

Nancy Neville