For me, real estate is first and foremost cash flow and a long-term asset — not a bet on price appreciation. I run the numbers, not gut feelings.
Rent minus all expenses (taxes, insurance, maintenance, vacancies) — that's your real return. Price growth is a pleasant bonus, not the plan.
You can buy almost anything. The question is whether you can rent it out and sell it fast. Location answers both.
A mortgage amplifies both profit and loss. Take on leverage you can carry even in a bad year.
Cap rate, cash-on-cash, payback period — calculate them before you buy, not after. Numbers are more honest than emotions.
A reserve for repairs and vacancies is mandatory. A property always costs more than it seems at the start.
Real estate rewards the patient. It's a marathon with compound interest, not a quick flip.
This is my personal experience and my views, not individual investment advice. Any decisions about investing money are yours alone and at your own risk; consult a licensed professional when needed.
The practice of ABK Trans and GreenMoving, translated into research.