Buying Property w/ Window Units

[Andrew Merritt]

I'm considering purchasing a small duplex that was built in 1964.  It only has window units, no central air or anything.  Do you guys usually shy away from this or is it not a big deal?

[Johnny Napier]

@Andrew Merritt Hi Andrew. There seems to be two trains of thought so I think it comes down to your personal preference. On the one hand, you can keep the window beaters and keep your costs low for maximun cash flow and minimal out of pocket. On the other, and what I do, is pony up to have a central HVAC system installed. Central AC will usually bring the appraisal up for refinancing purposes and you can expect a better tenant and get a touch more rent for an offset. $6k on a 30 year adds less than $40 a month. If your exit strategy is to one day sell it, it may help tremendously to sell it and probably pay for itself because folks don't want to own a window beater home down South. Kind regards, Johnny Napier