Buy and Hold Strategies

[Joseph Roberson]

15-30 year terms?

Should I plan on hiring a property management company?

Is there software to help you make decisions on property to see if it is a positive deal or not?

Anything else to add that is needed to know before investing?

I got my first book in the mail today "The Unofficial Guide to Real Estate Investing"

Any other books out there that are a must for learning about Buy and Hold strategies

[James H.]

First, learn the 50% rule and how investors (on this site) apply it.

Second, get a good deal on a property. Don't buy anything that doesn't come with some built in equity. You make your money when you buy, not when you sell. You will probably sell someday even if it is a long time in the future.

Third, familiarize yourself with leasing documents (applications, contracts, ect.)

Fourth, manage the properties yourself in the beginning. Give yourself a chance - its not that hard. Keep managing them yourself if you want. It is a good paying job.

Fifth, don't let fear stop you. If you abide by the simple rules of not paying too much for a property and only buying property that has equity and sufficient cash flow, you will do great.