This is very tempting: rent that falls into your pocket every month without having to work. But
don’t go into it with your eyes closed.
First of all, study the real estate market, especially in the region where you plan to invest. What
are the market trends, up or down? What are the sought-after neighborhoods? What are the
rental offers and demands? And don’t lose sight of the fact that this is a very fluctuating market.
Prices can vary enormously in a few months, depending on the general real estate market, of
course, but also depending on real estate or other projects in the region (attendance, population,
construction of HLM, new RER lines, opening of shopping centers, sports ). Neighborhood life has
an influence on real estate prices.
Different types of property can be presented: villa, townhouse, apartment, or even a commercial
property.
Evaluate all expenses carefully: purchase, repairs, renovation, management fees, planned co-
ownership work (study the latest reports from the building trustees), etc … and know how much
you can invest.
Learn the laws and regulations about real estate rentals. Tenants have rights, owners have
obligations. Don’t lose sight of this. Respect the laws carefully, conflicts can poison your life, and
sanctions can be expensive.
Choose your future tenants carefully. Make sure of their income and don’t hesitate to check with
employers, or even with their current landlords, to find out not only if they regularly honor their
rent, but also if they are « smooth » tenants.
You can entrust the management of your property to a company. Even if it costs you, it can save
you a lot of hassle. Otherwise, prepare to assume all your responsibilities as an owner:
maintenance, rent, charges, property taxes, etc…
Finally, be aware that the return on investment can be long and fraught with pitfalls. Rental
investment is not a guaranteed jackpot. It is a long-term work.
Proceed carefully, get started, and put all the chances on your side.
