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?