Property Criteria

What a sustainable first property looks like.

Simple, honest filters. The goal isn’t the ‘perfect’ deal — it’s a calm one.

Recommended characteristics

Single-family or small multi-family in a stable working-class neighborhood
A simple layout — 3 bed / 1–2 bath is usually easy to rent
Solid mechanicals (roof, HVAC, plumbing) within useful life
Reasonable taxes for the area
Walkable to schools, transit, or basic services

Red flags

·Major deferred maintenance you can’t see from the street
·Tax bill that wipes out your cashflow
·High-vacancy block or visible neighborhood decline
·Foundation, sewer, or roof problems on a tight budget
·‘Great deal’ that requires you to drain reserves

Does this property fit the blueprint?

Check what’s true. The more you check, the closer you are.

The payment looks realistically supportableThe area has rental demandThe property condition will not drain cash immediatelyThe expected rent supports the full monthly obligationThe numbers leave breathing roomThe property fits a beginner strategy, not an advanced investor strategy

Result

Start checking the boxes that are true