If you're considering using retirement funds to invest in turnkey real estate, a self-directed IRA (SDIRA) might be your golden ticket. But here's the million-dollar question: should you go traditional or Roth? Both offer unique advantages for passive real estate investors, making it a tough choice! 

Choosing the right one could make a massive impact on your long-term wealth-building strategy, though. So, make your choice wisely!

At REI Nation, every transformation tells a story of turning potential into performance — and this week’s feature is no exception.

6909 Fairfield Drive in Little Rock, Arkansas, is a 4-bedroom, 2-bath home built in 1963 with 1,196 sq. ft. of living space. After a full renovation, it’s now a move-in-ready investment property offering long-term value and reliability for its next turnkey investor.

The American housing market just reached a staggering milestone: a total value of $55.1 trillion, representing a $20 trillion surge since early 2020. For context, that's more than the entire GDP of the United States. 

But before you pop the champagne or panic about market bubbles, let's talk about what this means for single-family rental investors — and why the shifting geography of housing wealth might present your best opportunity yet.

This week’s transformation takes us to 1800 Green Acres Road in Jacksonville, Arkansas — a 3-bedroom, 2-bath home with 1,545 square feet of living space. Built in 1976, this property had great structure and location potential, but it needed a complete transformation to meet REI Nation’s turnkey standards. Our team stepped in to do what we do best: take a good property and make it great — creating a fully performing, long-term investment home ready to deliver returns from day one.

With mortgage rates experiencing their most dramatic swings in recent memory, turnkey real estate investors are rightfully concerned about how these changes impact their bottom line. 

While rates have retreated from their 2023 peaks at ~7.7%, they remain substantially higher than the historic lows of 2020-2021. For passive investors building wealth through single-family rentals, understanding this relationship between interest rates and investment returns isn't just academic...it's essential for making smart portfolio decisions.

Welcome to this week’s Transformation Tuesday! Today we’re spotlighting 4703 South 94th East Avenue, a beautifully renovated 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath home offering 1,132 square feet of comfort, convenience, and long-term reliability. Built in 1972 and now completely refreshed, this property represents everything that makes a turnkey investment stand out — consistent performance, dependable residents, and lasting value.

In the turnkey real estate industry, anyone can claim to offer "full-service" investing. The term gets thrown around so frequently that it's lost much of its meaning. But when you're entrusting someone with your financial future and potentially hundreds of thousands of dollars, you need more than marketing buzzwords.

This beautifully renovated Memphis home is a perfect example of what it means to invest with confidence. Located in a quiet, established neighborhood, 1791 Homedale Avenue offers a spacious layout with three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and over 1,600 square feet of living space — making it ideal for long-term residents.

Excellent customer service is not a “nice to have” in turnkey investing—it’s the foundation. Totally non-negotiable. Your turnkey provider or property management team can excel in virtually every other area, but if they stink at customer service, you’re in for a rough ride!

Welcome to 4580 Hickory Branch Drive, Memphis, TN 38141 — a 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home built in 1981 with 1,374 square feet of living space. This single-family property has just completed a full renovation, making it a ready-to-rent investment that blends comfort, quality, and long-term durability.

This home offers immediate income potential while positioning investors for steady growth in one of the Southeast’s most sustainable real estate markets.

Picture this: you're coming home from vacation. After throwing elbows at the airport, suffering through layovers, and paying $40 for a disappointing burger and fries, you're finally home. You unlock the door and step in, luggage in tow.

And you immediately know something is very wrong. A quick look at the thermostat shows that it's 92 degrees Fahrenheit when it should be 72 degrees Fahrenheit. Obviously, you can't sleep like this. You're spending your first night home in a hotel.

Located in the heart of Memphis, 6777 Castlegate Cove is a beautifully renovated 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home offering 1,562 square feet of comfortable living space. Originally built in 1986, this property has been thoughtfully updated to meet the needs of residents while remaining a strong investment for turnkey investors. This home combines convenience, comfort, and investment potential in a growing Memphis neighborhood.

Whether you’re expanding your portfolio or looking for your first turnkey investment, this property is a prime opportunity.

We meet with passive real estate investors of all varieties at REI Nation—from fledgling investors just starting to seasoned pros with sizable portfolios. We’ve been in this business for well over twenty years now. We’ve seen the ups and downs of the market and dealt with every investor anxiety imaginable. And, ultimately, helped thousands of turnkey investors build lasting wealth.

Every week we highlight a home that’s been transformed from outdated to opportunity, showing exactly how our turnkey process creates reliable investments for our clients. This week, we’re featuring a 3-bedroom, 2-bath property located at 4474 Bonnie Brae Drive in Millington, TN. Built in 1984 with 1,241 square feet, this home has now been fully renovated to meet our standards and is ready to begin its next chapter as a consistent and dependable turnkey property. With a projected first-year rent of $1,450 and no HOA, this property is positioned to deliver long-term stability in one of the strongest rental markets in the nation.

Real estate investors have a wealth of tax strategies at their disposal. This is one of the primary motivators for investors to choose real estate as their primary asset! We’re here to give you the rundown on one of the most powerful tax-deferral tools at your disposal: The 1031 Exchange.

Summary: A 1031 Exchange defers capital gains taxes through the sale of one investment property and the purchase of another "like-kind" property.

This week’s transformation takes us to 9003 Chateau Forest Drive in Houston, TX 77088. This 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home with 1,342 sq. ft. and a 2-car garage was originally built in 1970. When our team first saw it, the property looked tired, dirty, and rundown—far from the kind of home we want to provide to investors. But with the right rehab plan, a lot of hard work, and careful attention to detail, it’s now a modern, welcoming home that is ready to generate reliable income at $1,795/month in rent.

Ever feel frustrated when you think achieving your financial goals is taking too long?

Yes, you understand that good things take time. Promises of fast wealth are empty at best and a scheme at worst.

But surely you can do something to move the needle, even with a passive investment strategy.

"The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second-best time is now." – Chinese proverb

It's understandable if you're feeling hesitant about real estate investing right now. Maybe you've been watching the headlines about "cooling markets" and "stubborn interest rates," or perhaps you're remembering the head-spinning price swings of the pandemic and thinking, "I'll wait until things settle down."

At REI Nation, every week we get the chance to showcase one of our favorite parts of the turnkey investing process — property transformations. This week’s spotlight takes us to 1481 Main Street in Southaven, Mississippi, where a house built in 1962 has been given new life and purpose.

Passive real estate investors can’t do it alone. If we did, we wouldn’t be very passive, would we? No, we leverage the expertise of professionals and partnerships to make our rental properties a success! It allows us to avoid newbie mistakes, streamline and standardize our operations, and scale to heights individual investors can’t reach on their own.

But who do passive investors need by their side? And how do they ensure they make the right choice?

In recent weeks, a growing number of home sellers have delisted their properties (removing them from active listings) rather than enduring repeated price cuts that eat into their equity. At the same time, buyers aren’t biting in many of the country's hottest market metros. Is demand down? Are we about to face a price correction?

Here's what's fueling this shift and why it presents golden opportunities for real estate investors.

How do you choose a worthy investment market? Here’s a hint: if everyone is talking
about it, it’s probably not the right choice. By the time the cat is out of the bag on “hot” real estate markets, the window to score deals is closed.

And what passive real estate investor wants to waste their time on speculation?

Investing in real estate is an exciting prospect with the potential to totally transform your financial future. But it’s also intimidating for first-time investors, and understandably so! A significant amount of money is at stake, and there’s so much for new investors to learn.

As a result, many newcomers opt for a turnkey approach. That is, they purchase properties from an established turnkey provider that handles property acquisition, renovations, resident placement, and property management.

In today’s real estate landscape, the rules of the game are evolving. Investors are entering the space with high expectations—and sometimes without the preparation necessary to meet them. I’m seeing it in investor conversations, online forums, and in the hundreds of inquiries we receive each month at REI Nation.

If you’re investing in real estate for the first time, you probably have lots of questions. After all, there are so many options and strategies available. It can be overwhelming! But let’s focus on one of the bigger decisions investors must make: To invest in older properties that require renovation or opt for shiny, brand-new builds.

Welcome to this week’s Transformation Tuesday, where we spotlight one of our recently completed renovations—and the process that turns good properties into great, rent-ready homes. Today, we’re featuring 7114 Gulf Shore Boulevard in San Antonio, TX, a spacious 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom property offering 1,979 square feet of fully updated living space.

Built in 1984, this home now combines timeless structure with modern features designed to attract quality residents and drive long-term rental success. With no HOA and a two-car garage, it's an ideal turnkey opportunity in one of Texas’ fastest-growing cities.

When you hear the word “flat,” you might think “boring.” Uninteresting. Lacking potential. But flat isn’t always a bad thing. In the current 2025 real estate market, we’re seeing a “flat” market, at least where we’re investing. Prices aren’t moving all that much in either direction. 

Now, you’ll have a different reaction to this development based on your investment strategy. For example, flat markets scare off speculative buyers and flippers looking for quick appreciation, forced or otherwise. But for long-term investors, a flat market presents favoring buying conditions.

Welcome to this week’s Transformation Tuesday, where we highlight one of our latest renovations and the work that goes into turning properties into high-performing rental homes. This week, we’re featuring 106 Cornwall Court, a recently completed project in the growing Little Rock market.

Built in 1978, this 3-bedroom, 2-bath property spans 1,560 square feet and now features key upgrades designed to attract quality residents and support long-term rental performance. From fresh interior finishes to essential system updates, this home is now rent-ready and built for lasting value.

So many factors converge to create the reality of the single-family rental market that it seems impossible to synthesize it into something our brains can fully capture. That doesn’t mean, though, that trying is an exercise in futility. 

Welcome to this week’s Transformation Tuesday, where we highlight one of our latest renovations and the work that goes into turning properties into high-performing rental homes. This week we’re spotlighting, 3309 Bellingham Court, a recently completed project in Dallas, TX.

This spacious 3-bedroom, 2-bath home, built in 1977, offers over 1,900 square feet and now features new upgrades designed to attract quality residents. From essential system updates to curb appeal improvements, this home is now move-in ready and built for performance.

Listen. We’ve been in this business for well over twenty years at this point. We weathered the Great Recession and came out stronger on the other side. We faced COVID with plenty of anxiety. So, we understand why investors and real estate professionals might feel nervous about the real estate market in 2025.

This week, we’re highlighting a recently renovated property in San Antonio, TX—a growing market where smart investing meets long-term opportunity. Built in 1985, 13019 Woller Creek is a 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home featuring 1,698 square feet of living space, a 2-car garage, and a location within an HOA community. After a full renovation, the home is now leased and ready to deliver strong performance for its new owner.

It’s been five years since the COVID-19 pandemic changed the world as we know it. In so many ways, it seems far away and still too close. While some of the changes were temporary – mask mandates, six-foot buffers, and take-out-only restaurants – others stuck. 

This week, we’re featuring a recently renovated property in the Little Rock area: 7909 Claybrook Road in Mabelvale, AR. This 3-bedroom, 2-bath home was built in 1984 and offers 1,566 square feet of living space, a 2-car garage, and no HOA fees. After a full renovation, it’s now leased and ready to deliver dependable returns for its new owner.

Many people think they’re above falling for a scam. And while we would all hope that’s
the case, these scammers become increasingly sophisticated. AI tools only make it
more challenging to tell facts from fiction, and we’d best believe they’re using every
avenue to fleece their victims!

At REI Nation, we turn potential into performance—and this week’s featured property is a newly renovated 4-bedroom, 2-bath home in Millington, TN. Located at 4821 Greenlawn Cove, this 1,768 sq. ft. home, built in 1992, includes a 2-car garage and has been fully updated to meet our high standards for quality and long-term rental success.

You’ve worked hard to acquire investment properties, build equity, and establish wealth. Now it’s time to make sure all that effort doesn’t disappear when you’re gone! 

We’ve been in this business for a while now. It’s safe to say we’ve seen just about everything the market can throw at real estate investors, from housing market crashes to global pandemic panic. Good times and tougher ones, too. 

We’ll let you in on a secret, though: your success in real estate investment rarely has to do with market conditions. It has everything to do with the things you can control. As a turnkey investor, you rely on a team to get the job done. Critical to that team is property management. 

And what’s the most essential quality in your property manager? Proactive communication. 

A survey shows that, aside from rent costs, the number one most cited reason for rental residents to forgo lease renewal was an unresponsive and ineffective property manager. 

Further Reading: Crucial Questions New Investors MUST Ask a Property Management Company

One of the most telling indicators of housing market health is inventory. We all know that a careful balance between supply and demand determines the strength of the real estate market. But the housing supply seesaw has been one-sided for a long time…high demand, low supply!

Of the 19.3 million rental properties in the United States, 85.6% are single-family rentals. By and large (70.2%), these properties are owned by individual investors. In fact, the smallest portion of rental properties are owned by real estate corporations and REITs – just 1.2%.

Where should you invest in real estate? It’s the age-old question. We can make an excellent case for a few specific markets, but we want to speak more generally here. Real estate investment strategy is often about the slow zoom-in—focusing on general principles that grow in specificity as you move towards your personal pinpoint.

Passive real estate investing might seem "hands-off," but we know better. Part of being a successful investor is surrounding yourself with the right professionals to protect your investments, optimize returns, and ensure everything runs smoothly.
Thankfully, regardless of your experience level, there are countless pros to help you make your investments simple and effective in achieving your wealth-building goals. But who do you need? And when do you need them? Here’s your quick rundown of key advisors worth consulting!

Spring homebuying season is in full swing. At the same time, we are experiencing more than our fair share of economic turmoil, including tariff wars, inflation fears, and stock market volatility. While real estate is somewhat insulated from these issues, it’s undeniable that it will be impacted. So even in our inflation-resistant, reliable real estate world…should we buy right now?

Early retirement. The prize many real estate investors have their eyes on. If they can generate enough passive income to make up for an active career, they’ve made it. 

This week’s Transformation Tuesday highlights the remarkable journey of 7250 Leeward Cove in Memphis, TN. What began as a home with solid structure and untapped potential has been revitalized into a beautiful, welcoming space for a family to call home.

If you’ve got real estate on the brain, either as a homebuyer or investor, you know what it’s like to fantasize about that property with an alluring “for sale” sign. You might be the type to browse Zillow, dreaming of the perfect home…or the ideal investment.

Tariffs are likely to have a ripple effect on the real estate market.

As the Spring buying season kicks off, investors may find themselves with a bit of FOMO, or 'fear of missing out'. After all, property acquisitions are exciting! However, as responsible real estate investors, we understand that scaling one’s portfolio demands a plan.

The word on the street is recession.

If you’ve been in the real estate industry over the past few years, you no doubt noticed an uptick in conversation surrounding BTRs. You’ve also likely seen your fair share of investing fads and aren’t too phased by the so-called “next big thing.”

April 15^th is creeping up on us. Many people procrastinate on tax filing (don’t worry, some of us are guilty, too!), but there’s little room for investors to make the same mistake. Dread and procrastination are holding you back in more ways than one.

When people seek a hassle-free, ready-to-move-in solution, they turn to new construction. The allure of pristine siding, spotless floors, and that unmistakable 'new house' scent is undeniable. Many are drawn to new construction not just for its contemporary aesthetics and conveniences, but also for the promise of being the first owner.

We’re about to throw a few numbers at you.

A lot of people have outdated assumptions about who rents their homes. In this day and age, renting isn’t something people necessarily do out of necessity. While that may be the case, more and more people are choosing to rent.

We don’t know anyone who hasn’t made a financial mistake at some point. And while we can bounce back from many misjudgments with money, some have lasting, painful consequences. Our investors know that we’re here to see you succeed. We don’t want to see any investor fail. We don’t even want you to make it harder on yourself than it has to be.

Have you been dreaming of finally investing in real estate? Maybe for a long time? Far more people are in the position of dreaming rather than doing. But we want to be doers! So what’s holding us back from just going for it already? It often comes down to financial preparedness. People either don’t feel they can fiscally take on this venture or don’t know what they need in the first place! Financially preparing to invest in real estate, particularly in single-family residences (SFRs), requires a solid financial foundation and strategic planning.

Investing in real estate comes with a dizzying number of options. Passive or active? Residential or commercial? Single-family or multifamily? Which market? While many decisions come down to personal preference or investment strategy, some are less subjective.

Looking at real estate-centric headlines, you can almost immediately sense the anxiety. We’re not sure those feelings are well-founded. After all, it’s almost always the same song and dance: Is the real estate market going to crash? Why does this remind us of 2008? Things are bad!

Winter Storm Blair blew through the country early in the week, bringing less Winter Wonderland and more Winter Hazardland. It’s been a disruptive time, with snow and ice making roads unsafe and weighing down power lines. But winter storms like these aren’t just about the dangerous roads or business closures.

2025 could finally be your year. If you’ve been waiting to jump into the wild world of investing in real estate, get ready to take the plunge! Preparing to buy your first rental property requires careful planning and a well-thought-out approach. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get ready:

Remote real estate investing is one of the best ways to leverage your unique circumstances to build wealth. While some consider out-of-state investing too risky, we know better. When investors are intentional and targeted, they can benefit from the difference in costs between markets, increased demand, and better overall market stability than their local market.

The question every real estate investor asks and asks often: Where should I invest?

Who is renting your property? Passive investors are sometimes a bit detached from who their residents are and what they’re all about. At times, we may inadvertently be too “hands-off” in this area, neglecting to understand how we can better appeal to and retain our residents.

As a real estate investor, scaling your portfolio is the number one way to create wealth. After all, no one gets rich with one rental property. It’s holding multiple cash-generating investment assets that compound into lasting wealth.

Sometimes, we make the mistake of zooming out too much when it comes to real estate. We focus so much on national and global real estate trends that we miss the reality of where we – and our rental properties – are. There’s a mantra you may have heard from time to time:

Do you find investing in real estate boring? If so, you’re on the right track. As a society, we’ve largely come to think of boredom as bad where busyness is lauded. Make no mistake – we’re not talking about the boredom that comes from laziness. It instead comes from avoiding impulsive decision-making based on hype, flash-in-the-pan opportunities that don’t provide financial stability.

We don’t know if you’ve moved recently, but anyone who’s gone through the process knows what a hassle it is. Not only can moving be costly, but it’s generally stressful, too! So why do people do it? Thinking your rental residents move because they’re ready to buy a home is too simplified. While that may be the reason, other factors motivate people to seek “greener pastures.”

The real estate market is tough to predict in the best of times, and reports show it’s harder now than ever. The market isn’t behaving as we’d expect –throwing a wrench in our ability to make accurate predictions. But don’t worry! Just because we won’t be looking at 2025 predictions doesn’t mean investors are left flying blind.

Imagine you’re at a restaurant. You shell out your hard-earned money not just for a meal – but an experience. After all, would you return to a place that served an excellent meal with poor service? Likely not. And many of us would more easily forgive a mistake or a fine – but not exceptional – dinner if it came with attentive, personable service.

As the year draws to a close, you’re likely to reflect. (And if not, you probably should!)

The COVID-19 pandemic changed much of what we consider “normal” for the real estate market. The trends we saw were often unexpected and unprecedented. Now, almost five years later, where are we? The age-old debate between multifamily and single-family rentals continues to rage, but we’re still placing our bets on the latter.

With a new year and a new president approaching, change is on the horizon for the real estate market. While we’re cautiously optimistic that the U.S. housing market will turn in our favor, we also know this: success depends less on market conditions and more on our informed decision-making backed by solid fundamentals.

Portfolio analysis sounds daunting, particularly to newer investors who may be unsure what this process entails. Are you doing it right? Looking at all the relevant factors? Making the right decisions?

Do us a favor. Type “real estate news” in your search bar. Now count how many headlines seemingly contradict one another. No matter when you do this, you’ll find a huge variety of opinions and predictions. Right now, we’re seeing people say that “there’s never been a better time to invest,” while others say the opposite.

A recent report from the National Association of Realtors demonstrates some interesting statistics:

By the time you read this, we’ll likely have the election results in hand. But right now, as these words form, we’re still on the eve of Election Day. No matter where you fall on the political spectrum, the election season has caused its fair share of stress and uncertainties. We’re not here to discuss individual candidates, make predictions, or make a political statement.

It’s been a tumultuous hurricane reason in the U.S. We want to say this right off the bat – when these tragedies strike, the last thing we should be worried about is real estate. The first response should prioritize people, not possessions – as painful as those losses can be, the loss of human life is far more devastating. We don’t want anyone to get the impression that we’re more concerned with passive income than the very real people affected by these storms.

Believe it or not, the end of the year is already upon us. By the time we account for the holidays, it may as well be over, especially when preparing your investment portfolio for 2025!

This time of year, we revel in all things spooky – goblins and ghosts, skeletons and grim reapers, witches and creepy-crawlies. Most of us know there’s a difference between an innocent scare and true terror. And while we may not be talking about buckets of blood in the latest Halloween thriller, a few things should strike fear into the heart of any  SFR investor.

There are many ways to invest in real estate, but inexperienced investors are often drawn to the most difficult, risky way to do it: DIY investing.

Investors might feel gunshy about buying because the real estate market seems like such a toss-up (especially with un-affordability and unpredictable reactions to slashed interest rates). Never feel pressured to buy properties if it goes against your risk tolerance. Still, though, investors should do something. It isn’t enough to twiddle our thumbs, even as passive investors.

Even elementary financial concepts are commonly misunderstood. We all had the wrong idea at some point or another. There’s no shame in that – only in refusing to learn better! Some commonly misunderstood financial concepts could hold you back from building lasting wealth!

Mortgage rates have already fallen at least a percentage point below their 2024 peak. Cuts are expected to continue through the end of the year and on into 2025. Many of us have been waiting for this – something that will finally jog the frozen real estate market and get us towards more palatable conditions.

The Average Joe likely looks at the real estate market of 2024 in shock and awe. Prices are high, but mortgage rate cuts promised to bring everything back into balance. Meanwhile, data shows that the real estate market remains frozen, with only a tiny percentage of homes on the market changing hands.

Rental property turnover: the bane of an investor’s existence.

Insurance feels, in many ways, to be a necessary evil. Not only is insurance largely required, whether on a car or a property, but it can also seem like paying for nothing until you actually need it. And even then, many of us have experienced the headache of trying to make a claim and get a promised payout.

Inexperienced investors are more likely to rely on their own sense of logic and reason instead of following tried-and-true financial advice. After all, certain investment strategies seem strange and counterintuitive to the uninitiated. But make no mistake – our instincts are prone to lead us astray regarding financial wisdom.

Could a construction boom be on the way for 2025? Some experts seem to think so. Our friends at Bigger Pockets are also discussing the possibility – foreseeing the lower rates will kickstart construction activity – if not in 2025, certainly within the next five years.

For the most part, real estate investors aren’t interested in “trendy” homebuilding. Our focus is usually on function and longevity, not style. This isn’t to say investment properties don’t look nice – but they tend to be renovated for timelessness, not flash-in-the-pan appeal.

But we’re not talking about choosing fancy backsplashes or the right paint color for some HGTV dazzle. Investors should pay attention to building trends – including materials, home styles, layouts, and amenities. These give us insight into what buyers – and, in turn, renters – want in a home.

These are the trends (sourced from U.S. News) to watch and consider when making rental property renovations.

What does it mean to say a real estate market is “hot”? Should investors even care?

Are we headed for a recession? Research from J.P. Morgan has raised the probability to 35% for a U.S. recession by the end of 2024, with unchanged odds at 45% for 2025. Those aren’t percentages to sneeze at. Even if a recession doesn’t come soon, it’s still on the horizon.

One of the biggest real estate investment fraud schemes in recent history has been exposed. Wells Real Estate Investment promised investors that their money would be used to buy, renovate, and develop commercial and residential properties across South Florida. Instead, they gambled $28 million of $58 million in investor funds on speculative options and futures trading.

Mortgage data from Freddie Mac suggests that, as inflation slows, interest rates will continue to slide back down. And no – we’re not going to see 3% rates any time soon – but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth your while to revisit your existing mortgages! But when should real estate investors look to refinance? And how do they know it’s the right time?

What is the best way to invest in real estate? While an investor can utilize numerous strategies and approaches to pursue financial freedom, it starts with one debate: active versus passive investing.

ATTOM, a curated real estate data titan, recently released the second quarter 2024 U.S. Home Equity & Underwater Report. And if you own property in the United States, things are looking up. 49.2% of mortgaged residential properties are considered “equity-rich.” This means these properties have a combined estimated loan balance under half of the property’s estimated value.

Every real estate investor starts with one property, but then what? Scaling your portfolio can feel as daunting as buying that first property. Some investors fear branching out into new markets or neighborhoods, worry about over-leveraging, or cringe at the thought of making a costly error. That’s all natural.

But at the end of the day, the only way to grow substantial wealth – the kind that leads to financial freedom – is to add properties to your portfolio.

When you do so with diligence, wisdom, and the right support in place, you put yourself in the best position possible to succeed.

What made you immediately decide not to buy something you were considering? A bad review? A greater expense than anticipated? Unfortunately for us real estate investors, there are no reviews for potential properties. Thankfully, there are red flags that help us know when a real estate deal is less than ideal.

Turnkey investors have an advantage here – their turnkey partners have plenty of experience identifying and vetting ideal investment properties. But that doesn’t mean you’ll always go this route. Regardless of your investment strategy, it’s good to know what red flags to look for…if only so you can ask informed questions!

With the 2024 Paris Olympic Games underway, we’re enamored with the Olympian spirit. Truly, fewer people are more resilient and dedicated on the planet! But as hard as these athletes train with blood, sweat, and tears, not everyone will win the gold. There will be failure and heartbreak.

To our Floridian readers out there, fair warning: we’re about to pick on your state a little.

Out of all the investment opportunities in the world, why invest in single-family rental properties? After all, it’s not the hottest or most exciting asset. But there’s a reason people have employed this investing method – with great success – for decades. Individual investors have specific goals: early retirement, financial freedom, generational wealth-building, etc.

Morgan Stanley recently called homeowners “strong hands” in the real estate market. Strong hands refer to those with the financial means and capacity to hold onto their assets long-term. They withstand market volatility and downturns.

When we talk about what makes a property an ideal rental, we often end up citing factors around the property rather than the qualities of the house itself. Things like location and proximity to amenities are of utmost importance – but it doesn’t mean any ol’ property in a good location will make a good rental.

In the sea of real estate investment asset types and strategies, two tend to pique the public’s interest more than others: short-term and long-term rentals. But how do these two stack up against one another?

What does it take to succeed in real estate investment? We’re sure you can think of plenty of skills and qualities. Honestly, so can we! But we want to boil it down to the essentials. Remember, hope is not lost if you’re not exceptionally skilled in these areas. Anyone can hone and enhance these skills to fuel their effectiveness as a real estate investor. And, for simplicity’s sake, we’re mainly referring to buy-and-hold SFR investing.

While these qualities apply on a broader scale, that’s the context we’re operating in, so that’s the kind of investing we’re speaking into!

Here are the skills you need to master:

In the information age, misinformation is a big problem. Plenty of people say whatever it takes to earn a buck, stir up controversy, or gain notoriety. It’s no different in the crowded world of financial and investment content. Take a look, and you’ll find your fair share of financial gurus offering empty, inactionable advice. And from people like that come plenty of myths…namely about earning passive income!

Every parent wants to see their child better off than they were. Setting our children up for financial success involves more than what we leave them in the will. It’s what we teach them – how to steward, grow, and preserve their wealth.

As the real estate market cools and potentially slides into a downturn (which is natural and not the same as a crash, mind you), investors must examine their risk exposure. New data from ATTOM shows that Southern and Midwestern markets are at the least risk for a serious downturn overall.

2020 turned the real estate market as we know it on its head. While the fundamental rules of the business stayed the same, there’s no denying that the housing market reacted unpredictably. That’s not surprising in light of the uncharted territory of a global pandemic.

By nature, real estate investing isn’t a particularly speculative investment. While the level of speculation varies among investment strategies, real estate will always be more sure (and secure!) than betting on the stocks of unproven start-ups. At the same time, real estate investors may fall into speculative habits – habits that ultimately increase risk.

This year, you might have heard some discouraging things about the real estate market. Naysayers have debated the feasibility of SFR investing when real estate prices are at an all-time high. Various legislative efforts might change the real estate landscape. Here’s the thing – it’s not that real estate investing is a bad idea. It’s more about perspective.

Have you ever watched a trapeze act? Performers dazzle crowds with their impressive aerial feats. They balance, swing, and fly through the air! These acts are entertaining no matter what, but some feel the need to up the ante by removing the safety net. The tension – and entertainment – comes from the knowledge that a single mistake could mean serious injury…even death!

Before embarking on a new and potentially risky venture, you must be adequately prepared. You wouldn’t go on a long trip without packing a suitcase! And the most experienced travelers know that a checklist ensures all the essentials get packed.

In the same way, real estate investors must prepare before they start their investment journey. It’s all too easy for inexperienced investors to get in over their heads. It takes solid preparation to set the stage for success – do you know what you need to do?

Never fear – we’re here to give you the definitive checklist for preparing for your first real estate investment.

Are your investment goals out of reach as a “late bloomer” investor? Sure, in this business, time is of the essence. The sooner you can get started, the better. That doesn’t mean you’re disqualified from real estate investment success if you don’t start until your forties, fifties, or beyond!

Anyone can be a real estate investor. But elite investors – those who genuinely excel and build lasting wealth through real estate – are built different. It’s not that they have some innate greatness or skill that others lack. Instead, they have the drive and discipline to establish habits that bring their investment success to new heights.

Picking the right investment market can be tricky. There are tons of factors that contribute to an area’s potential…or downfall. Real estate investors know the power of location – but picking the right places to own property isn’t always easy. Sometimes, seemingly beneficial qualities, like rapid property appreciation, can backfire when the market becomes untenable to buyers and renters. 

We’ve all heard, “Cash is king.” The phrase was coined in 1980 by author George N. McLean as a business maxim: “Avoid credit, remembering that cash is king, credit is a slave.” The phrase reemerged and grew in popularity with the 1987 stock market crash. We’ve seen plenty of professionals and investors hold to this philosophy since.

Insurance is one of society’s necessary evils. So many times, paying our premiums seems like a waste…until we have to make a claim, that is! Whether we like it or not, property insurance is an unavoidable expense in real estate investing. And with insurance premiums set to hit a record high in 2024, investors are feeling the cash flow squeeze.

New construction is divisive in the world of real estate, whether you’re an investor or a traditional homebuyer. Some are attracted to the totally turnkey nature of new builds. Others are skeptical of the quality of modern construction and developing markets.

Every investor benefits from the counsel of a financial advisor. Ideally, your advisor knows you, what you want and need, and the essential aspects of your investment strategies. Their perspective and know-how help construct effective action plans and mitigate risk along the way.

But advisors aren’t just there for big-picture talk. Before you move forward with a property acquisition, consult your advisor to ensure you’re making the best decisions possible for the health of your investment portfolio.

As a passive real estate investor, here are some key topics to cover:

If you were to ask a room of SFR investors what the most crucial factor in success was, you would get a whole array of answers: the location, the property itself, the property management, accurate number-crunching…the list goes on!

What’s the best way to buy an investment property? Just as there are many investment strategies, various financing options are at your disposal, each with drawbacks and benefits. While we certainly have avenues we recommend more than others, every investor should be well-informed about every option.

Real estate investment is an enormously varied industry. Different types of properties, countless markets, real estate classes, and strategies are involved. On one hand, this is beneficial because just about anyone can find an approach that works with their financial goals. On the other hand, so much variety can be daunting!

Imagine this: you’re a new real estate investor. You want passive income. So you set your sights on a turnkey property requiring no renovations or lead time before you find a resident and start earning sweet, sweet cash flow. Only one problem: you decided not to use a property manager.

You may think to yourself – is that really a big deal? People landlord for their properties all the time! How hard can it be?

While taking on landlord responsibilities is something people do, you must be sure it fits into your vision of investing in real estate. Going in unprepared is a recipe for failure. You can have a pristine, beautiful turnkey property, but without proper management, it can all be a big waste of time and money.

Millennials are a diverse demographic. Today, they’re between the ages of 27 and 42, between young adulthood and nearly middle-aged. Trust us; we’ve heard plenty of discourse about millennials and the housing market over the years.

Everyone wants a good return on their investments. What ROI looks like in practice depends on the investment you’re examining. Your ROI can look at your whole portfolio or a singular property renovation. Regardless, the formula is simple:

If you search the Internet for “worst renter stories” or terms like it, you’re bound for hours of jaw-dropping, stomach-churning entertainment. It’s like watching a train wreck. And while as fun as a bit of schadenfreude can be, no real estate investor goes into this business wanting their own horror story.

In most cases, passive real estate investors aren’t in it solely for cash flow. One of the best reasons to invest in SFRs is simple: you reap rewards from cash flow, appreciation, and tax benefits. The taxes, in fact, are one of the main reasons people choose real estate!

But what are those benefits? And what should investors look for in individual investment markets? After all, local and state taxes can significantly impact the effectiveness of these policies. Here’s what you need to know!

Though passive investors may not be involved in the day-to-day operations of their rental properties, they have plenty of responsibilities. One such responsibility is in managing and maximizing cash flow. This task starts from the outset as you weigh the cost of a rental property and its ongoing expenses against cash flow potential. But it doesn’t end there!

Those ongoing costs tend to increase over time – and part of your job is mitigating those increases to best preserve and maximize passive income.

Further Reading: Top Tips for Increasing the Profitability of Your Investment Properties

Resident retention is the investor’s best avenue to reliable cash flow. Vacancies cost money – costs for lost rental income, preparing for the next resident, and marketing the property, to name a few! As a real estate investor, one of your top priorities – regardless of your strategy – is to keep good residents for the long haul.

But how do we do that? What do retention rates mean? How are they calculated? Keep reading to find out more!

How Retention Rates Work

We can talk about metrics all day, but they’re useless if we don’t understand how to calculate and interpret the data! Generally speaking, your rental property retention rate is calculated by dividing the number of residents (or renter households) that moved out during a twelve-month period by the total number of residents/households you had over that same period. Then, multiply that result by 100. 

Mortgage rates are the highest they’ve been since the Great Recession. Current 30-year fixed rates hover in the 6 to 7% range. Historically speaking, that’s nowhere near the highest they’ve been (that title belongs to the average in October of 1981 at a sickening 18.82%. Yikes!), but current rates are coming off all-time lows in 2020 and 2021. 

With home prices higher than ever, it is no surprise that homebuyers are waiting patiently for mortgage rates to come down and ease sticker shock. After all, the higher the asking price, the more the percentage matters.

But is it wise to wait for rates to drop?

We think not. As real estate investors, you risk more in the wait than in taking the chance in the market as it is. Here’s why:

If you want to lose your mind, try to keep up with all the predictions being made about the real estate market. Doing so is exhausting. Even if some interpretations and predictions have merit, they’re just that – predictions. In many ways, the headlines are designed to scare us. Navigating news on the real estate market is frustrating: full of mixed messages and emotionally charged rhetoric.

And for every opinion you see, you’ll find one to counter it. 

So, how do we move forward without fear as real estate investors? After all, we don't have time to be paralyzed by every doom-and-gloom headline. You're in luck - here are the secrets to fearless real estate investing.

Investing out-of-state is one of the best things a passive real estate investor can do for their portfolio. After all, investing beyond your local market comes with some distinct advantages, such as:

In the real estate world, there’s almost always someone talking about a housing bubble. But what exactly is it? What causes it? And what happens after the bubble bursts?

When investing in real estate, some risks are obvious. Others? Less so. Effective risk management involves recognizing and mitigating all risks, from the common to the rare. Are the chances slim? Sure. But you’ll be kicking yourself if you don’t do your due diligence in handling these sneaky buy-and-hold real estate investing risks! 

Investors – ourselves included – often refer to “financial freedom.” While the concept itself sounds reasonably straightforward, it can mean many things to different people. These ideas lead to diverging goals and priorities. Ultimately, those points of divergence demand unique investment strategies. What you do hinges on where you want to be.

Is your real estate market overpriced? Navigating today’s housing market isn’t easy. Though inventory is going up and mortgage rates are going down, property prices are still sky-high. For the real estate investor, it’s pretty easy to assess your local market. Things get tougher as you go further afield.

U.S. housing inventory is trending in the right direction. 

We saw a 12.9% year-over-year increase in new property listings in February. Although total inventory remains flat, we’re finally not seeing a decline in overall inventory for the first time in nine months.

As you’re likely aware, tight inventory is mainly responsible for the stubbornness of the housing market. Even when active demand seemingly froze market activity, prices haven’t budged. Inventory kept rising interest rates from easing home prices. It’s also made the supply and demand balance unsustainable.

Ideally, this increase in new home listings points to a turning point on the horizon. But there are a few problems – and reasons investors shouldn’t sit back and “wait out” low inventory.

We get it – houses are expensive, now more than ever. It’s only natural that investors would turn to low-cost properties. On the surface, there’s clear appeal: less capital upfront for an income-generating rental property. Why wouldn’t you go with the cheapest houses you can find?

If you’re like many people, you like to browse real estate listings. Sometimes, you come across a property with a shockingly low price tag in a great part of town. You might think, “Wow! What a deal!” Then, you start looking at the pictures and realize that the whole thing has been stripped down to the studs, and it would take double the asking price or more to get it habitable. Oof. 

That opportunity might excite some more hands-on, flip-minded investors, but it’s not for us. At that point, it’s pretty evident that the property will cost you far more than the seemingly low asking price. But it’s not always so obvious. Some properties may not look the best – they’re serviceable – or be in the best neighborhood, but they’re affordable, so why not?

Well, we’re here to tell you. Here’s why investors shouldn’t target low-cost properties.

For real estate investors, it’s relatively easy to look at all the news coming out about the real estate market and lament. You might feel like there’s no place for you anymore, and investing is too hard. Believe us, that’s not the case! Part of the problem is that many of these reports and analyses look at overall medians and averages. 

While these are concise ways to talk about overall trends in the country, investors need to zoom in. The real estate market is not uniform. It varies, and investors must take advantage of it. We found these maps by ResiClub (courtesy of Fast Company) helpful in illustrating this point.

These maps effectively represent median home prices within individual markets across the country. While the $380,000+ median price sounds scary, we must recognize that that number doesn’t reflect every market.

So, what do these maps tell us about the real estate market…and investing?

You’ve undoubtedly poured over the details when looking for a real estate investment market. You’ve analyzed rental rates, median income, sales prices, local economics, and more…but have you asked about the weather?

Location matters, not just because of the economics, housing affordability, or rental demand but because of the climate. 

Both run-of-the-mill weather risks and natural disasters could jeopardize your investment property. If anything, it could be costing you a pretty penny in maintenance and insurance costs! Here’s what you need to consider about the climate as you choose an investment market:

The term “turnkey” isn’t regulated in this industry. The original concept is clear enough – turnkey properties mean you can “turn the key” and step right into a new or fully renovated property ready to earn passive income. But not everything advertising “turnkey” is doing the same thing. Because the definitions vary and the word is used purely for marketing, investors need to know what they want from a “turnkey” experience.

What do turnkey investing companies ideally do, and what are the signs that something might not really be turnkey? Keep reading to find out.

So you’re investing in real estate…but are you investing in yourself? Here’s the harsh truth – none of us are naturally adept at building an ideal financial future on our own. For some, financial success comes from parents who instill lessons of self-discipline and the value of a dollar. For others, it comes from personal research, lots of reading, or even degrees and certifications.

No one expects a passive real estate investor to be an absolute expert. You didn’t sign up for a passive gig just for it to turn into a full-time job! 

Sometimes, the best deals you do are the ones you said “no” to.

“How is that possible?” you might ask. We live in a time when the real estate market is competitive and contentious. That’s true for the average buyer, and it’s true for investors. Even now, we sense FOMO – the fear of missing out – plaguing the real estate industry. Potential homebuyers are afraid they won’t win their bid. Investors are worried they’ll miss out on once-in-a-lifetime deals. They think they’re doing something wrong if they’re not participating in the hottest new investment market.

But sometimes, staying out of it is better than jumping in.

Though the factors that sway the rise and fall of the real estate market can be varied and complex, there’s no denying that housing inventory is among the most impactful. As one of the most significant talking points among investors and real estate professionals, we must all understand how inventory impacts what we do – and the industry.

Sometimes you’ll hear us refer to a very simple rule for real estate investors: take nothing on faith. But what does that really mean, and why is it essential to success as a passive real estate investor? 

Essentially, we’re telling investors to do their due diligence, to ask questions, to verify, and to absolutely look a gift horse in the mouth. We’ve all heard what they say about making assumptions!

One of the arguments critics like to use against real estate investment is its lack of liquidity. To access cash, you must endure the rigamarole of selling the property. As any seller knows, this process can be one long headache. 

Fortunately, having cash in hand isn’t the only way to reap the rewards of your property’s equity. Investors should know all of their available options. We’re not necessarily recommending these strategies. They each come with unique benefits and drawbacks, and we urge individuals to do their due diligence.

Passive and active real estate investing are two distinct approaches to this business, each with advantages, drawbacks, and considerations. The strategy you choose often comes down to personal financial goals and preferences, but there’s no denying that passive investing offers a few distinct advantages for all investors.

Committing to a huge financial decision is never easy. It’s a process of back-and-forth, pros and cons, self-doubt, and infinite, exciting potential. For many, this is the decision to make a significant investment. We all know how critical due diligence is, including asking serious questions!

You’ve decided this year will be your year. It’s finally time to jump in and buy your first rental property. Passive income is calling! But wanting to invest in real estate and actually doing it are two different animals. Sometimes, the practical steps to get it done are mysterious, especially for new and inexperienced investors. 

Never fear – we’re here to give you a step-by-step action plan.

If you’re here reading this, you’re at least interested in turnkey real estate. 

With so many ways to invest in real estate, why go turnkey? In this economy, the premium cost of turnkey investing can seem like a deterrent. We’ll tell you right now – not because we want you to invest with us, but because we know from experience – this model works. It continues to work through economic ups and downs, allowing investors to build their wealth without demands on time and expertise. 

From the outset, we want to say this: turnkey real estate investment isn’t for everyone. That’s why before we proceed with any potential client, we have a frank discussion about their goals, resources, and desired investment experience. We’re honest when things don’t line up because everyone deserves the best avenue to lasting wealth, even if that means looking elsewhere.

There are plenty of qualities we’d say are necessary for one’s success as a real estate investor. There are two of the traditional “holy virtues” we’d consider non-negotiable for success: diligence and patience. But let’s be honest, we’ve hammered in the importance of diligence (in the form of due diligence). We’re going to keep talking about it, too. 

It’s almost a given at this point. That’s why we want to discuss the neglected, overlooked, and fundamental virtue of patience.

Knowing who to partner with as a new real estate investor isn’t easy. As an owner-investor, due diligence rests on your shoulders from the beginning. To be a passive investor, you must first find the right property management company. The quality and integrity of their business will guide your success.

Now, there are many elements to vetting a management company – looking at their public information, reviewing their quarterly and annual reports, and soliciting reviews from other investors. But perhaps the most critical step for a new investor is asking questions.

Investing in real estate can be lucrative, offering long-term financial stability and wealth accumulation. While there are countless strategies to employ as a real estate investor, one of the most popular is turnkey SFR (single-family rental) investing. This method appeals to individuals seeking a more hands-off and hassle-free investment experience.

So how does it work?

Turnkey real estate investing involves purchasing properties fully renovated and managed by a third-party company, allowing investors to enjoy passive income without the day-to-day responsibilities of property management. Investors leverage the experience of these turnkey companies, who often buy, renovate, sell, and manage properties in-house, to benefit their portfolios. 

Between REITs and crowdfunding, there are more ways to earn passive income from real estate than ever. So many of these avenues promise lucrative results for little effort on the investor’s part. Why, then, should real estate investors consider single-family rentals instead? After all, don’t they demand more of your time, money, and attention?

Can’t you get the same results with less effort?

If time is money, investors can’t afford to dilly-dally. Maybe you feel content with your portfolio as-is. You don’t feel the need to grow. Or perhaps you’re hesitating because the market seems inhospitable. Regardless of the reason, it’s much harder to regain momentum once you’ve lost it.

Let’s clarify: to truly build wealth through real estate, you must scale your portfolio. One or two properties won’t cut it. Our time is limited, too, and we must make the most of it.

But we get it, too – sometimes you lose interest, have bigger priorities, or don’t feel motivated. It happens to the best of us. So, how do you power through these seasons and keep up that real estate investing momentum?

When the real estate market is competitive, investors must be careful about what they pay for a property. Bidding wars and high costs can cause what would have been a good investment opportunity to turn into a real dud. That said, protecting your cash flow depends on far more than what you pay at closing. It’s more than the rental rates you set. No – protecting and maximizing passive income has far more to do with your strategic choices and due diligence.

Sometimes, getting started is the hardest part. We’re a distracted and busy people. That busyness can derail the best intentions, delaying and diminishing potential returns. Maybe you’ve been considering investing in real estate for a long time. It’s something you want to do, something you know you should do for your financial future.

You just keep kicking the can down the road.

Is the Spring homebuying season kicking off in January? Some experts think so, with lowered interest rates drawing buyers back to the housing market. There’s no doubt that the decline will be gradual over the next few years, but it won’t stop activity from kicking back up. 

Just as the smallest rise in rates meant adding hundreds of dollars to mortgage payments, a decline – even a tiny one – represents greater savings and housing affordability. It should be no surprise that investors want to make acquisitions in 2024. But how does a real estate investor wisely prepare?

2023 presented some unique challenges for real estate investors. But as much as we can bemoan rising interest rates and stubbornly high property prices, the current market – and the market we’re likely to see in 2024 – has a lot going for SFR (single-family rental) investors.

Remember: your success in this business isn’t decided by the sway of the market. It all comes down to your fundamentals and a willingness to adapt your strategy to suit your needs under the full gamut of market conditions.  Including...remembering that time in the market matters more than timing the market.  Just getting in, getting started or getting growing is enough to put an SFR investor ahead of the masses who are waiting for big shifts and changes before making their next moves.

It’s hard to deny that 2023’s real estate market has been frigid. After all, this year’s total home sales are shaping up to be at the lowest levels since 2011 and the peak of housing crash-induced buyer anxiety. That said, the experts are feeling cautiously optimistic about the real estate market for 2024.

It might be cliché to think of a new year as a clean slate, but it can still be a beneficial way to think about it. Besides getting in shape, financial health is one of the top priorities among those who make New Year’s Resolutions. Regardless of where you are with your financial goals, now is a great time to refocus. And what better way to do that than through a financial advisor?

Tired of making the same old resolutions about finally using that gym membership? Maybe it’s time to shift your gears towards financial resolutions. Real estate investors are in a prime position to renew their efforts in the new year, riding the wave of resolve. But what should a passive real estate investor’s new years’ resolution look like?

2024 seems like it will break out of some of the downward real estate trends we’ve seen due to rising interest rates and inflation. While it’s unlikely we’ll see a break-out year for real estate, signs indicate that conditions will warm up to buyers over the next few years.

Has investing in real estate fallen out of vogue?

Look around – everyone is feeling market pressure. They think buying a personal residence is far out of reach, let alone securing multiple investment properties. They’ll say it’s too expensive. That we should wait until prices or interest rates come down. That we’re nuts for still banking on real estate when the market is like this.

In today’s economy, it seems like we’re feeling more pressure than ever. It’s not just about the tumult in the real estate market but the volatility of stocks, the ever-growing cost of living, and increasing economic uncertainties.

Are you considering your next big wealth-building strategy? Looking for ways to strengthen your portfolio? Look no further: it’s time to go turnkey.

Passive investors rarely get the opportunity to gain the hands-on experience other investors have. While this can save them from the pitfalls of their inexperience, it holds them back, too. As a passive investor, experience and education aren’t about the doing. They’re about the knowing.

Experienced real estate investors know even small factors can make or break their wealth-building efforts. While broadly, that single factor is due diligence, we want to get a little more specific. We’re talking about what your residents really want.

Between higher interest rates, stubbornly high property prices, and a competitive real estate market, you may wonder if investing in real estate is worth it anymore. And while the challenges facing the market (and investors) demand we pivot our strategies, none negate the benefits of investing in single-family rentals.

Because the real estate market moves in a cycle, you’d think timing it would be easy. After all, if investors could predict what the market will do, we’d be able to time our moves accordingly! While that’s a wonderful thought, it’s the daydream of an inexperienced investor.

Now's the time to take advantage!

It’s official, we just extended our Refer and Earn program, offering a fantastic incentive to our loyal supporters like you. For each new referral you make to REI Nation, you could earn $2K. 

Homeownership hit at all-time low at 62.9% in 2016. While owning a home was once an integral part of the American Dream, we’re seeing it matter less and less to up-and-coming generations of homebuying age. Millennials and Gen Z, saddled with student debt and low wages, are often unable to afford a home – if they even want to buy in the first place.