If you could put in $X and boost rents by enough to provide a solid return, you bet I would do it!

Your best bet is a good insurance policy."

(first look period).You should have a understanding of what buildings will and will not qualify for conventional financing, of course the best deals don't qualify.Take your time and look at many properties,Solid buildings that mostly need cosmetics are your best bet.

And I think Concord is a good long-term bet, and likely more consistent appreciation than a tertiary Bay Area city like Richmond.

Of the market areas in Texas, I have to say that Houston is probably the best bet in the Tex-a-plex.

Best bet is to interact with a board member to get the full scoop, write a letter to be read at a board meeting making your case and consider being on the board yourself...

People have tried that before and you get into very deep trouble.The reason is lenders know if it's a rental you will not fight for the property as much to keep it versus where you live and sleep every night.

You also put the property under contract within a few months, which supports the position of held for sale versus held for investment.121 ExclusionYou would probably not receive the full $500,000 exclusion.

With a million dollar listing you can bet the agent will run you through the ringer with Proof of Funds, Verification of Deposits and Numerous Background and credit checks.

Not sure if this would be a rule of thumb...but you need to comapre your cash flow from renting plus your appreciation versus the tax cost of holding onto the property.