How Much Do You Keep In Each Pot?

[Brian Volland]

As I start to build my road map for my first multi-family, I've of course been analyzing with CapEx, PM, Repair, and Vacancy. The question is, how much do you cap these reserve "pots" off at?

Here is what we've come up with but, considering my lack of experience, I'd like more experienced opinions on this. Since each property is different we chose to use percentages, mostly. Also we're trying to stay conservative so that we don't end up using credit cards if at all possible.

CapEx - This is indefinite up to the value of the home. Considering we are only putting 5% gross rents into it, that'll take some time but we figure we'd rather be prepared for complete catastrophe.

Vacancy - 6 months total gross rents. If we can't fill our vacancies in 6 months, we're doing something very wrong.

PM - indefinite. Even though we'll be owner occupying, setting it aside will give us some buffer if rates go up for some reason so we can reposition. Or it can be tapped for repairs if needed.

Repairs - 10% value of property. 

Thoughts?