An Unpopular Opinion On Investment Properties

When it comes to investment properties, I have a rather unpopular opinion. Most people will advise you to get a property with multiple units to maximize your monthly income. However, this strategy only works on paper.

Why you ask? Because multi-unit homes, especially basement apartments, have higher turnover rates. This means that you will end up spending more repairing the units between renters, advertising for tenants and also have a higher vacancy rate. In the end, the added monthly income does not outweigh the added expenses.

In addition to these hard costs, you will also likely need to referee spaces such as laundry facilities, parking and noise complaints.

My suggestion… look for a single-family home and great long-term tenants to fill it.

Looking for an investment property? I’ve personally bought and sold several income properties, locally and out of province, both residential and commercial, rented long term and short term, self-managed and hired external management companies. Let’s chat - I’d love to share my knowledge and experiences!

- Jessica Nakamura, Oak & Co.