What Is the 5% Rule in Real Estate Investing?

There are many ways to slice and dice the rent vs. homeowner debate. You can spend lots of time on various calculations and weighing pros/cons only to be left with no decision. But for those who aren’t as familiar with real estate, where do you even begin this debate?
What Is a Registered Representative?

As an investor, you may be confident in your financial acumen and comfortable executing your investing strategy. On the other hand, you may prefer to incorporate the input of a professional investment advisor to a greater or lesser degree, depending on the situation. Circumstances and strategies may change over time, and the investor’s need for professional support may also differ at various stages. Therefore, it's helpful to understand the options available and the differences between the professional advisors you can choose from.
What Are Real Estate Appraisals and How Do They Work?

If you have ever bought a commercial property or even a home to live in, you have probably experienced the anxiety of waiting for the appraisal value report. An appraisal estimates a property's fair market value and is made by someone qualified to do so because of their knowledge and expertise. You might need an appraisal for tax purposes, gain mortgage approval, qualify for insurance, or determine a sales price.
What Is a Regulated Investment Company?

A regulated investment company (RIC) can be any one of several types of companies, including mutual funds, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), unit investment trusts, or real estate investment trusts (REITs). What matters for the definition is whether the company is qualified to pass-through income per Internal Revenue Regulation M (Title 26, sections 851 through 855 and others).
When Are Capital Gains Realized?

When you sell a stock at a higher price than you paid for it, a profit is generated. In most cases, that profit is taxed. Specifically, if the profit is a realized gain, it is taxed. But when exactly does a profit become a realized gain?