Initial Real Estate Investment

If you’re new to real estate investment, think about purchasing an in-law unit or constructing a separate unit on your existing home. Or buy small. It's a great way to get started in the property investment area with little capital, risk and time.

Another option for a new investor is to buy a duplex and live in the top or bottom floor or create a second home that acts as a vacation unit. These are good ways to get into the game without putting up a lot of capital—these types of investments are cheaper and very easy to manage. No need to hire a property manager to look after a number of units or have the burden of screening and finding new tenants.

In-law units are a great way to offset your mortgage payment and you will be able to write off the depreciation of the unit and the appliances in the unit. Plus, when and if you sell the home, you can include the cash flow from this unit in the price. But you need to be aware of zoning laws for your city and neighborhood, specifically for an in-law unit or an addition.

However, if you have an in-law unit, you will have what is probably the most negative aspect: someone living in your residence. But if the house is structured with a separate entrance, kitchen and bathroom, you'll still have the freedom and privacy of your home.

If not, you might want a friend or relative to live in the in-law unit, which will make the conditions much more pleasurable. Conflicts can always arise but with some borders between your living spaces, things should go smoothly. Similarly, with a duplex, your neighbor can conceivably pay for your home, but you are again in closer quarters with your tenant. But if you're starting out and are young, these are not bad options. Look for a duplex that makes separate living very easy, and comes with good parking and a separate stairway for the upper unit.

The other option is renting out your second home or vacation unit. Again, you run the risk of having the tenant in the unit when you might want to use it. But the IRS gives you two weeks of tax free rental income each year for second home landlords, which could be worth the intrusion.

There are many ways to generate cash flow, reduce your taxes and get into the investment property game. Sometimes, the key is to be creative. Think about ways you can satisfy a demand, whether it’s in a ski area or near the beach or maybe it’s an apartment in Arizona just near the spring training practices for Major League Baseball. Each spring you'll have a waiting list for baseball enthusiasts looking for a place to stay.