Finance
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

How do I Choose the Best Cash Flow Properties?

Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

Choosing the right cash flow properties is essential if you want to build up a steady flow of revenue. There are a number of different types of real estate properties that may be ideal for the purpose, including residential properties that can be rented, commercial buildings with several offices available for lease, and even hotel and motel accommodations that generate steady income. When considering different options with cash flow properties, consider the history of the property in terms of revenue generation, upkeep costs that impact your profit margin, and the future prospects for that particular strip of real estate.

When looking at different cash flow properties, it’s a good idea to find out whatever you can about the past performance of those properties in terms of generating a steady flow of cash. Ask for details on monthly receipts related to the lease or rental of each property. Make note of how the location impacts the cash flow by identifying when other structures in the immediate area, such as shopping malls or entertainment establishments, were introduced into the community. This will give you some idea of what factors have led to the current financial status of the property and help you determine if it is a good fit for your personal financial goals.

Commercial buildings with several office spaces for lease may be good cash flow properties.
Commercial buildings with several office spaces for lease may be good cash flow properties.

Along with getting a good idea of how much the cash flow properties actually generate in terms of revenue, it is also important to find out how much it costs to keep the properties functional. The idea is to determine if a property under consideration is barely breaking even or is generating a decent amount of profit once all applicable expenses have been covered. If you find that the expenses associated with maintenance and upkeep are prohibitive, focusing on a different opportunity may be in your best interests.

Commercial buildings with several offices available for lease can be ideal for cash flow.
Commercial buildings with several offices available for lease can be ideal for cash flow.

Once you have a good idea about the past and current status of the cash flow properties you are considering, take the time to project what will happen with those properties in the future. For properties that are in stable areas, the chances of appreciating in value are very good. At the same time, if the area is anticipated to enter into a period of decline over the next several years, there is the chance that you would not recoup your original investment before the decline got underway. Assuming that one or more of the cash flow properties under consideration can realistically be expected to hold their value and continue to attract tenants over the long term, the investment is highly likely to be worth your time and your money.

Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

After many years in the teleconferencing industry, Michael decided to embrace his passion for trivia, research, and writing by becoming a full-time freelance writer. Since then, he has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including WiseGEEK, and his work has also appeared in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and several newspapers. Malcolm’s other interests include collecting vinyl records, minor league baseball, and cycling.

Learn more...
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

After many years in the teleconferencing industry, Michael decided to embrace his passion for trivia, research, and writing by becoming a full-time freelance writer. Since then, he has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including WiseGEEK, and his work has also appeared in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and several newspapers. Malcolm’s other interests include collecting vinyl records, minor league baseball, and cycling.

Learn more...

Discuss this Article

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Commercial buildings with several office spaces for lease may be good cash flow properties.
      By: Andres Rodriguez
      Commercial buildings with several office spaces for lease may be good cash flow properties.
    • Commercial buildings with several offices available for lease can be ideal for cash flow.
      By: andiafaith
      Commercial buildings with several offices available for lease can be ideal for cash flow.