THE STABLES PROPERTY GROUP
They say the best time to start investing in real estate was yesterday. But, I believe the next best day
is TODAY!
My name is Tracey Neale and I am a licensed Realtor® in the Commonwealth of Virginia. After buying, renovating and selling residential real estate, I’ve learned a lesson or two about the ups and downs of real estate investing.
Lifestyle TV shows are a lot of fun! They make it look so fast and easy, but before you dive in - know that it will require a significant time commitment and a lot of hard work to stay in the game!
It will also take a double dose of dedication and education; calculating basis points, measuring positive cash flow and knowing how to create passive income, among other skills. And there are many different types of investors: wholesalers, tax liens buyers, landlords, and your basic flipper. We will examine them all, and discuss new and interesting ways to finance your projects like - crowdfunding, private and hard money loans.
When I started investing, I didn't have a source to help me figure things out, so I had to learn many lessons on my own and sometimes, the hard way. But, I am grateful because I developed a passion for it, even though real estate was not my primary career.
And that certainly hasn't stopped people from asking me to share my journey and offer tips.
So, I’ve redesigned this website to showcase some of my favorite properties and share a bit of what I've learned over the last decade+.
I feel blessed that many of the stories had favorable outcomes, but a few did not. Even so, almost all of the properties have unique backstories, and that is enough to keep me inspired. Like the one with ties to the Vatican that surprisingly drew praying nuns to the gate or the one that became part of an embassy in downtown DC. There is nothing like taking the worst building on the block and turning it into a gem!
Read my written blogs and watch for upcoming videos.
Note: What I’m posting isn't investment or expert advice, it's just tales of trade which you might find useful.
Passive Income Stream
Passive income is one of the main principles of the New York Times bestseller Rich Dad, Poor Dad. Work hard for a few years, then be able to step away and continue to have income flowing to you for the rest of your life. Some experts believe one way to achieve this lofty goal is by applying the 5-in 1 rule. The idea is that you keep one out of every five properties you renovate if that property is debt free and produces a positive cash flow. Or, as suggested in the 1990's bestseller written by Robert Kiyosaki, the debt you have on the rental property is good debt, meaning that your monthly rental income covers it. He further suggests that you keep an escrow account to cover any unforeseen vacancies or repairs.
Another point the author makes is that if you suspect that managing rental properties isn't for you, go with your gut. Many experts are quick to point out that owners with multiple properties would be better served by hiring a property management company. Go ahead and do it, they suggest, even if that means forfeiting 6-10% of your monthly rental income, in part because of the amount of time that management consumes.
Read my blog on how to select an investment rental property and calculate basis points, to see if you landed a good deal. And, keep in mind that owning rental properties may change your filing status with the IRS, so be sure to consult your CPA and personal team of advisors before you seal the deal.
Funding Options
When you are ready to buy, location, location, location is key whether you want to own investment property or a turn-key residence. In economic, legal terms it's called situs. Whatever kind of buyer you are - get to know that concept, because it can make the difference between you making a profit or not. So, once you find a property how are you going to fund the purchase, renovation, and the carrying costs? Well, for investors if you're not able to self-fund or simply want to better leverage your money, there are many options worth exploring.
Some investors turn to small, neighborhood banks and opt to put down a large down payment, relying on their personal credit scores and financial standing to acquire those loans.
Many others prefer to use private or hard money lenders because they may offer asset-based loans with 100% financing. Simply put, those funding sources generally offer loans based on the property itself, rather than the borrower's credit. They are usually short-term loans and may come at a higher interest rate.
Along with turning to family and friends for funds, some investors also join local investor groups to network and share funding strategies. There are several in the Tidewater area, but of course, I strongly suggest due diligence. And, if tech is your thing - according to Forbes.com and other sites, with a loosening of federal regulations, crowdfunding has proven to be a modern money solution for investors. Stay tuned - we'll dig deeper into crowdfunding in an upcoming blog.
Bottom line, enter into any financial obligation with clarity, having done your homework and with a reasonable amount of caution.
Hampton Roads Meet Up Member:
TRIG and PRIA
Sources: Bankrate, Connected Investor, Forbes
STAGED and SOLD with Multiple Offers In the First 24 Hours!! - Full Price
Stunning, fully detached nearly 4000 Sq. Ft. house. 5 bed/4.5 baths. Fully renovated w/ chef's kitchen featuring high-end SS appliances Including a 48" refrigerator.
First-floor master suite with steam shower, body jets, radiant tile floor, two custom closets w/ lots of built-in extras you will appreciate! 4-season sunroom and separate office, hardwoods, five bedrooms/ 4.5 baths, gas fireplace inside, wood burning fireplace outside under large arbor. The gardens are a must see, with separate grilling and dining areas, plus a lounging section. Fruit trees surround 1600+ sq ft. Three car garage with plenty of storage. A one of a kind property with unique indoor and outdoor space and style.
KINGSMILL GOLF RESORT,
RENOVATED - STAGED and SOLD - Quickly!
This lovely property is nearly 5000 sq ft, chef's kitchen, three renovated baths, three bedrooms, three wood burning fireplaces, hardwood floors, huge laundry room with quartz counters and cabinetry that matches the kitchen, a large basement with walk-out, two car garage, and multiple rear decks.
Our Charity of Choice
WWW.VERONICASSTORY.ORG
ORPHANS FOUNDATION
If our mission touches your heart, please spread the word and feel free to help our cause. VSF is and always has been a small, grassroots, entirely volunteer effort.
non-partisan 501 (C)3
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Want to Chat?
Tidewater, VA
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757-243-3025