Is Taking Out a Loan to Buy a Traditional Rental or Airbnb Property a Good Idea?

Everywhere you look, the news is reporting on everyday people making thousands of dollars renting out space on Airbnb. Is it a smart financial move for you to get a loan and buy an investment property for traditional long-term rentals or short-term Airbnb hosting? Read on to help you decide.

Rental property mortgage loans differ from home loans

Lenders view rental property mortgages as riskier than primary home mortgages because they’re easier for the borrower to walk away. Be prepared for different criteria to secure a rental property mortgage. The credit score, down payment, and loan-to-value ratio requirements are typically more stringent.

Research area Airbnb rentals

Back up your decision with clear data that investing in a traditional rental or Airbnb property is a good idea that will make you money. Check out the other properties in the location you want to buy. Are most of them booked? How much do they charge per night? What are their amenities? If you decide to move forward with getting a mortgage for a rental property, make sure you purchase a place that will be competitive with the other ones available.

Compare rent with your mortgage payment

The goal of renting out a property is to make money, or at least cover the monthly mortgage payment. Look at a reasonable expectation of what you would make in rent and compare it with what you’ll be paying out in mortgage principal, interest, taxes, and insurance. If they’re close, or if you come out ahead, buying a rental may be a wise choice.

What are your goals with the purchase?

Do you want a bit of extra income, or are you planning to purchase several rentals or Airbnbs over the next several years? Understanding your objectives is key to knowing whether you should get a mortgage to buy rental property.

Do you need tax deductions?

Rental properties offer several valuable tax deduction opportunities throughout the year that can save you big. If you want to slash your tax bill, a rental property or Airbnb could help.

Would you enjoy using it part-time?

With an Airbnb especially, you may rent it out part of the year and enjoy it the rest of the time. If you’re planning to purchase a property in a sought-after location, you and your family may get the side benefit of using it.

Do you have money to cover unforeseen (but guaranteed to happen eventually) issues?

Rental properties may incur damages or need repairs, or they may sit empty for a month or more. Do you have the income, or the savings, to cover these expenses and lack of rental income? Make sure you don’t get in over your head with a rental property.

As with any financial move, it pays to plan ahead before plunging in. Check your credit score to ensure you’ll get the most attractive loan options, save as much of a down payment as you can, and cut out frivolous spending. Thinking carefully about the decision will maximize your chances of making the right one.