What Is the 2% Rule in Real Estate Investing?
Unlike some other famous maxims in real estate investing (like the seventy percent rule, for example), the two percent rule is widely discredited in most U.S. metropolitan areas. The rule holds that the rental amount should equal two percent of the property's purchase price. By that calculation, if you purchase a house for $100,000, the monthly rent should be $2,000. That seems unrealistic at first glance and becomes even less likely the deeper you dig in.
What Is the 50 Percent Rule In Real Estate Investing?
Like many rules of real estate investing, the 50 percent rule isn’t always accurate. However, it can be a helpful way to estimate expenses for a rental property. To use it, an investor takes the property's gross rent and multiplies it by 50 percent, providing the estimated monthly operating expenses. That sounds easy, right? If the property rents for $4,000 a month, operating costs should be approximately $2,000.
Why is a Cap Rate Important?
Cap rates are one of the go-to tools real estate investors use when valuing a property. Cap rates provide a quick and easy way to determine a property's value. But cap rates shouldn't be used in isolation. Understanding how to derive a cap rate and knowing the right context are critical factors in getting the most out of a cap rate.
What is the Opposite of Cap Rate Compression?
Cap rate is a shortened reference to capitalization rate, which is an illustrative metric used to evaluate the attractiveness of an investment. The cap rate generally identifies how long it will take the investor to recover their investment. You can determine the cap rate using this formula:
What are the Advantages and Limitations of the Markowitz Model?
The Markowitz Model was developed in 1952 and has remained a cornerstone of portfolio construction. Some swear by the theory, while others see weaknesses. Let's examine these differences to better understand the practical uses of the Markowitz Model.
What is an Interest Rate Cap and How Does it Work?
For investors, interest rates can make a significant difference in whether a specific project is attractive or not. As interest rates rise, the margin for profit may shrink, requiring the investor to approach with caution. In some cases, a variable or adjustable interest rate can offer a tool to increase the deal’s feasibility. The reason for this boost is that the initial rate is lower than the investor can obtain for a long-term fixed-rate loan.
