Real Estate Deal Analysis & Advice
Market News & Data
General Info
Real Estate Strategies

Landlording & Rental Properties
Real Estate Professionals
Financial, Tax, & Legal


Real Estate Classifieds
Reviews & Feedback
Updated almost 8 years ago on . Most recent reply

First duplex - Too good to be true?
Just bought my first investment property and am eager to move onto the next. Before I do, I'm seeking some retroactive advice on the first deal to see what I might have missed or left out of my analysis: Bought duplex for $84K. 100+ years old property, but in great condition (per inspector) with newer roof, siding and windows and a dry basement (property was owner occupied for most of the last 15 years). Monthly rent is $1,000 ($450 for upper, $550 for lower). Property taxes are $1,888/yr and insurance (commercial policy) is $818 / yr. Commercial loan at 5.25% with 20-year amortization. I put 20% down. Inclusive of pre-paids (including initial year's worth of hazard insurance) and closing costs, I'm in for $19K. I did not include a vacancy factor in my calcs since I think both tenants will stay and, if they don't, I shouldn't have trouble finding new tenants (property fills a medium quality niche that is somewhat lacking in our area). I pay $50/month in utilities (sewer/trash); All other utilities and lawn/snow is handled by tenants. Included 20% capex allocation in my calcs (which might be low. The garage needs a new roof and while I expect the tenants to stay, once they leave, I'll do some cosmetic sprucing up) and am planning to do the property management myself. My calcs show me as having a cash-on-cash ratio of 4%. Thoughts?