For how long is it ok to hold a rental property after buying it?

[Jasraj Singh]

I just want to know that For how long is it ok to hold a rental property after buying it? When is a good time to sell?

[George Pauley]

Just want to re-iterate the concept of return-on-equity (ROE).  Do the math and the math will tell you what to do.  If your ROE on a property is less than the ROI you expect for a new investment, then it's time to get the equity out of the property and into the new investment.  This might mean selling the property, or it might simply mean re-financing it.

I tend to buy properties with the intention of passing them to my heirs.  The tax advantages for inheriting real estate are outrageously generous.  This makes me lean towards refinancing.  If, you do end up selling, try to buy a new property via an IRS 1031 exchange to avoid losing these tax advantages.