Congratulations! You've just closed on your first rental property and taken your initial step into the world of real estate investing. The feeling of accomplishment is well-deserved, but now that you hold the keys to your new investment, you might be wondering what comes next.
Never fear!
Read on to find out what you need to do as a first-time Columbus real estate investor.
Pay Attention to Property Maintenance
As a new real estate investor, prioritizing property maintenance can help you avoid costly repairs and keep your investment in top condition. Regular inspections are a crucial component of property maintenance. Schedule these inspections at least twice a year.
Emergency repairs are another aspect of property maintenance that requires your attention. Establish a plan for handling emergencies promptly. This includes having a list of reliable Ohio contractors and service providers who can help quickly with any urgent repair needs.
Don't Forget Property Marketing
You need to make your rental property stand out in the bustling Columbus market.
Start by creating compelling online listings on popular real estate platforms. These platforms are often the first place potential tenants look when searching for rental properties.
Join Ohio community groups and real estate forums where you can share your listings and interact with people who may be interested in renting. Social media also allows you to highlight unique aspects of your property, such as recent upgrades, nearby amenities, and special promotions.
Effective property marketing is not a one-time effort. Continuously monitor your marketing strategies' performance. Be willing to change up your approach based on feedback and results.
Hire Property Management Columbus
Hiring a property management company in Columbus can be a game-changer for first-time real estate investors.
Property management companies take over the day-to-day tasks associated with rental properties, including tenant communications, maintenance requests, and rent collection. This frees up your time, allowing you to focus on other investment opportunities without sacrificing the quality of management for your property.
These experts implement efficient rent collection systems, ensuring that payments are received on time. They also handle financial management tasks, such as accounting, budgeting, and reporting. This transparency and organization make it easier for you to track your financial performance.
Think About Upgrades
When you're looking at next steps for investors, you might want to upgrade your Columbus property.
Kitchens and bathrooms are often the most looked at areas by potential tenants. Consider modernizing the kitchen with new countertops, energy-efficient appliances, and updated cabinetry.
In the bathroom, replacing old fixtures, installing new tiles, and new paint can create a clean, contemporary look that appeals to renters.
Consider replacing worn-out carpets with durable, low-maintenance flooring options like hardwood, laminate, or tile. Proper lighting can enhance your rental's ambiance. Consider installing energy-efficient LED lighting and adding stylish fixtures to brighten up your property.
Succeed as a New Real Estate Investor in Columbus Today
With these real estate investment tips, you'll be on the path to success as a new Ohio real estate investor in no time.
Are you looking to hire Columbus property managers? PMI Columbus's franchise has been helping new real estate investors get on their feet for over 20 years.
Contact us today.