re: Considering investing in a single family home in Raleigh (Apex), NC

I've got a few thoughts. I've been researching where to invest so have put some time into this.

1 For a $300k mortgage you're probably looking at around 2100 a month (assuming they tax you a little more as an investment property) and the average rents around there are in the 2300-2600 range. Refinancing when rates drop would have you in decent position.

2 Property management will take 10% of collected rent, so you might come out just ahead when rent is collected. But of course, there are tax benefits and equity growth.

3 Experienced real estate investors usually assume an extra 200-300 month in expected costs for a year long lease to cover repairs, cleaning, and vacancy. So while you may break even month to month, with that slim of margin you should expect to lose 2-3k per year cash (not counting the previously stated tax and equity benefits).

4 Is it truly a single family home or a townhouse? A short look at the rental listings there show a ton of townhouses on the rental market for 30+ days, but very few houses all getting contacts and applications quickly. If it's a standalone home then you will likely have a good place in the market.

5 It seems like a strong market with job stability so no qualms there.

6 I'd personally be reluctant to spend 100k on an investment property and I'd rather put that toward 3 smaller ones with slightly better cash flow, but that is simply preference.