Rent by Room or by House and When to Buy

[Phil C.]

I was just curious if poeple usually rent out the entire house or if they rent on a room by room basis? Especially in college areas, I think it would be easier to rent single rooms that way at least part of your mortgage is taken care of while you find more renters.

Also, do people usually plan there rental property prucahses around the school year, IE purchase a property before school starts when the students are still looking for houseing or do you just buy when you find the right deal even if it is the middle of a semester.

I am planning on buying a rental near a University campus, and have not found something that works yet and am not sure If I should wait until the next semester comes around.

Your input is greatly apreciated.

Thanks,
Phil