Unfortunately, the deals are even worse than that, because there is a cost associated with the downpayment.Here's how I would evaluate these deals:Deal #1:Gross rents: $2,400Operating Expenses: $1,200 (half of gross rents:NOI: $1,200 (subtract operating expenses from gross rents)Mortgage ($249K, 30 yr, 6.75% NOO): $1,615Cash flow: $415 LOSS per month (OUCH!)

That rule says that operating expenses for rentals run 45% to 50% of the gross rents.

What kind of house has a 50% operating expense expectancy?

I'd liken it to the problems you find in a meth house (where an illegal lab has been operating)," he said.

Throughout the United States, operating expenses run 45% to 50% of the gross rents.

Understand the numbers (especially operating expenses)3.

Plus I have more exit strategy options.Choice is ultimatley up to each individual investor on what types of portfolios they choose to operate.

all I care about are 'Solds'what are or have been selling at what price.Obviously the MLS is one of the easiest ways to find this out quickly.I do use a separate service that only operates for my particular county and they access all the records and compile the list for me.

there are 3 meters on the property and 2 furnaces i know off. i'll contact the agent tomorrow to find some more specifics about it. im not sure how the 3rd aprt operates. its an add on. butt anyways this has potential which is exciting.

That's a usual and customary basic real estate approach to share title interests while operating and phasing other title holders out of ownership.