Estimating Repair Costs and Capex

[Victoria Coleman]

I’m having a hard time figuring out how to calculate repairs. I have a few of questions.

1. How do you figure out what percentage you should set aside from your rental income per month for repair costs?

2. In "The Book on Rental Property Investing" Brandon provides a Capex estimation process table, but how do you accurately calculate your capex? Do you ask the previous owner when was the last time each item was repaired and then ask contractors how long each item will last and how much it will cost to repair?

3. Should repair costs and capex be separate? Or can you just factor them in together?

I appreciate any feedback in advance!