{"id":170384,"date":"2024-04-10T14:27:28","date_gmt":"2024-04-10T20:27:28","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/blog\/?p=170384"},"modified":"2024-06-20T06:06:18","modified_gmt":"2024-06-20T12:06:18","slug":"newly-built-condos-make-great-rental-properties-in-cities","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/blog\/newly-built-condos-make-great-rental-properties-in-cities","title":{"rendered":"Newly-Built Condos in Cities Make Perfect Rentals\u2014Here\u2019s Why"},"content":{"rendered":"\n\n      https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/blog\/newly-built-condos-make-great-rental-properties-in-cities  \n\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">When discussing rental properties, it&#8217;s common for people to refer to&nbsp;<\/span><a class=\"editor-rtfLink\" href=\"https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/blog\/finding-multifamily-properties\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">multifamily<\/span><\/a><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">&nbsp;residences. How many times have you heard someone say something like, \u201cI have 20 units under management,\u201d most of which are probably spread across just a few buildings?<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">This investment approach is logical from an economic standpoint. Having four units under one roof versus just one, four rents instead of one\u2014you get the point.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">No one ever talks about condos as a viable investment option in real estate. Indeed, there\u2019s a negative connotation around the word \u201ccondo.\u201d Tell someone you bought a condo as an investment, and you can pretty much guarantee that someone in the&nbsp;<\/span><a class=\"editor-rtfLink\" href=\"https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/forums\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">BiggerPockets Forums<\/span><\/a><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">&nbsp;will scoff at you. You\u2019ll hear all about how terrible homeowners associations (HOAs) are and how condos appreciate slower than single-family homes.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Perhaps the biggest affront and final blow to your reputation would be sharing that you bought a newer condo. No sweat equity? That\u2019s blasphemous\u2014how will you ever reach financial freedom?&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">It\u2019s not sexy to say that you have one unit, or that you bought a newly built property without renovating it yourself, or that you bought your deal on the MLS.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">So what\u2019s the punchline?<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Condos are the most overlooked real estate investment that anyone can access. That means less competition. For busy investors working a 9-5 or new investors trying to get into the market, this is your distinct advantage.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Here, we\u2019ll focus on newly built condos in cities, which is where the best value lies. Keep reading to learn more about the advantages of this forgotten asset class.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Better Location<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">\u201c<\/span><a class=\"editor-rtfLink\" href=\"https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/blog\/breaking-down-the-location-location-location-principle-in-real-estate\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Location, location, location<\/span><\/a><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">\u201d is everyone\u2019s favorite mantra when it comes to real estate.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">There\u2019s a higher likelihood that you find a condo in a prime city location than a single-family property. To maximize on space, developers build up, not out. This makes condos more abundant in cities. It also means you can find them in ideal locations for rental properties.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">There are a variety of ways to capitalize on location as a condo investor. Here are just a few.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Find the next trendy neighborhood<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Want to capitalize on the changes happening in your city? Investing in newer condos in trendy or up-and-coming neighborhoods can offer significant potential for appreciation and rental income growth. These areas often attract young professionals and creative types seeking vibrant communities and diverse cultural experiences.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Make sure there\u2019s access to transportation and major highways<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Being situated near public transportation hubs or major highways enhances the accessibility of newer condos. As such, these are ideal for renters who rely on commuting or prefer the convenience of city living without the hassle of owning a car.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Play up the convenience and comfort angle<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Put yourself in your renter\u2019s shoes: People live in cities to be closer to work or for convenience. Within walking distance, residents will have easy access to restaurants, shopping centers, entertainment venues, employment opportunities, and transportation.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">In today&#8217;s fast-paced world, renters value convenience and comfort above all else. Newer-built condos often offer features such as concierge services, secure parking, and modern finishes that cater to these preferences, making them highly desirable rental options.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Strong Rental Demand<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">A bigger population equals more potential renters. And in a city, there\u2019s no shortage of people. This means a constant demand for housing because of the sheer volume of renters looking at any given time. Here\u2019s how to take advantage of this.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Stand out&nbsp;<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">A newer unit will stand out compared to the competition. There\u2019s a reason luxury vehicles sell for more than used cars.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Unlike older buildings, newer condos often boast state-of-the-art features. These appeal to contemporary lifestyles and lower-maintenance living. These amenities also attract high-quality renters willing to pay a premium for added comfort, convenience, and a sense of security.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Pay attention to demographics<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Demographics also contribute to strong rental demand in cities. As younger generations delay homeownership and prioritize mobility and flexibility, demand for rental properties, particularly in urban centers, is expected to remain robust.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Millennials are the first generation that\u2019s more likely to rent than own a home. It\u2019s also the largest population demographic. Millennials, along with Gen Z, tend to prefer the flexibility and convenience of renting over homeownership. Newer-build condos offer hassle-free living experiences with professional property management services and maintenance included, making them an attractive option for discerning renters.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Investing in newer-build condos allows landlords to capitalize on this demographic shift and generate steady rental income.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Any rental strategy can work<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Condos in urban centers can be excellent sources of rental income because you\u2019re not pigeonholed into one investment strategy. Based on your preferences and&nbsp;<\/span><a class=\"editor-rtfLink\" href=\"https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/blog\/which-real-estate-investing-strategy-is-best-for-your-goals\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">real estate investment strategy<\/span><\/a><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">, you can garner interest from renters in any of these categories:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Short-term rentals:<\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">&nbsp;<\/span><a class=\"editor-rtfLink\" href=\"https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/guides\/the-ultimate-guide-to-short-term-rental-properties\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Short-term rentals<\/span><\/a><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">&nbsp;only work when there\u2019s a draw to them. Cities are full of attractions. Condos\u2019 prime locations in urban centers make them attractive to tourists and business travelers. When in town for only a short while, time is precious, which means limiting commutes. These people seek location convenience that puts them close to attractions, restaurants, and the like.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">You can also cash in on seasonality. Cities host events such as festivals, major conferences, sporting events, and other options, depending on what they are known for. The high demand for short-term rentals in urban areas can result in lucrative rental income, especially during peak tourist seasons or major events.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Medium-term rentals:<\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">&nbsp;Urban centers often attract individuals relocating for work, internships, or temporary assignments, creating a steady demand for&nbsp;<\/span><a class=\"editor-rtfLink\" href=\"https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/blog\/how-to-invest-in-medium-term-rentals\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">medium-term rental<\/span><\/a><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">&nbsp;properties.&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Let\u2019s use traveling nurses as an example. All major cities have hospitals. A condo near a major hospital might attract nurses who want to work, get home quickly to rest, and have things to do during downtime. If they\u2019re receiving a housing stipend or credit, why wouldn\u2019t they pay more for proximity to work?<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Long-term rentals:<\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">&nbsp;As discussed, there are more people in cities, meaning a greater pool of potential applicants. By coupling this with convenience and other local amenities, you will further increase your chances of getting top-dollar rent in your area.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Rent appreciation is something else to consider. Assuming the property is in good condition and in a great location, demand will remain constant. Over time, you can expect rents to increase naturally due to inflation and other factors. If you buy a condo in an up-and-coming area, you may also see rent and property value increases as the neighborhood improves.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Cheaper to Purchase than Other Forms of Housing<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">You may feel discouraged if certain property types feel out of reach. Generally speaking, condos are cheaper than single-family and multifamily houses. In high-demand, expensive markets, the gap only increases further. For these groups, a condo makes sense as an investment.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Here\u2019s a story about how this played out for a real estate agent in Boston helping two&nbsp;<\/span><a class=\"editor-rtfLink\" href=\"https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/real-estate-investing\/house-hacking-strategy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">house-hacking<\/span><\/a><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">&nbsp;couples:&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">\u201cBoth were interested in the same area of the city at similar price points. One couple wanted a value-add house, while the other wanted a newly renovated condo. The couple who wants a house put in several offers\u2014none of which were accepted. Every property had a bidding war with 15 or more offers that were far over asking. The condo couple put in one offer at the unit\u2019s asking price. It was accepted.\u201d<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Note that the price of a new condo was equivalent to a fixer-upper house. To get the fixer-upper into tip-top shape would require money for renovations. Even after the updates, it would demand rent similar to the condo, assuming an equal amount of square footage, bedrooms, and bathrooms.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">While the resale value on the single-family will likely be higher, as a rental property the condo is a better deal in Boston. House hackers in other pricey markets are likely experiencing something similar.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Lower Maintenance, in Every Sense of the Word<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">For new investors, newer condos are a great starting point. There\u2019s less maintenance, so it\u2019s almost like having real estate investor training wheels.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Here are some examples:&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Lower maintenance and repair expenses:<\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">&nbsp;With newer condos, landlords can benefit from lower maintenance and repair expenses. Since everything is new, these properties are less likely to experience issues associated with aging infrastructure and outdated systems. This translates into fewer headaches and more money saved.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Energy efficiency:&nbsp;<\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">New appliances are energy efficient. Newer condos are designed to save water and energy. This results in lower utility bills for landlords (if you pay them) or for your renters.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Built-in capital expenditure savings:&nbsp;<\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Every investor is taught to have a rainy day fund to save for major expenses, called CapEx or capital expenditures. These are things like HVAC and the roof. Depending on the HOA, the budget might account for this as part of your monthly payment. Even if it doesn\u2019t, you still only need to pay a fraction of the cost to replace common-area expenses. Furthermore, you also have a long time to start saving for larger maintenance issues simply because the building is newer.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Low-maintenance renters:&nbsp;<\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">When you rent out a newer unit, there\u2019s not much for someone to complain about. People also often respect new things and are careful to treat the condo like it&#8217;s their own home. Make sure you&nbsp;<\/span><a class=\"editor-rtfLink\" href=\"https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/blog\/how-to-screen-tenants\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">screen your tenants<\/span><\/a><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">&nbsp;accordingly, though!<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Final Thoughts<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Newly built condos in urban areas are often overlooked despite their compelling advantages. For beginners and investors with busy schedules, this could be a way to zig when others zag.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n    \n  <div id=\"visibility-group-block_053258fb8435251f226aab954ffd4b0e\" class=\"visibility-group alignwide  hidden\">\n        \n\n<div id=\"hero-block_4810d998c98f2183f8cfa26e76195569\" class=\"first:mt-0 hero-block py-4  alignwide   has-background has-slate-200-background-color has-text-color has-theme-gold-color\">\n    <div\n        class=\"gap-10 lg:gap-20 flex flex-wrap lg:flex-nowrap max-w-screen-xl mx-auto px-4 relative lg:items-center \">\n\n        <div class=\"relative z-30 lg:w-1\/2 \">\n            <main class=\"py-4\">\n                \n\n<p class=\"has-slate-800-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:800\">Find the Right Agent, Close the Best Deal<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"my-3 md:my-5 lg:my-8 has-slate-900-color has-text-color\" style=\"font-size:18px\">Step #1: Use Agent Finder to match with top <em><strong>investor-friendly<\/strong><\/em> real estate agents to help you find, analyze, and close your next deal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=button-custom-event-block_d6739fc44ece8618450e24aad28fdd55 class='button-custom-event'>\n      <a\n    href=\"https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/agent\/match\"\n        x-on:click=\"window.analytics.track('Blog Block | B2C Marketplace Agent Finder', {\n      referrer: 'https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/blog\/newly-built-condos-make-great-rental-properties-in-cities',\n    });\"\n    class=\" btn-shape inline-block no-underline has-background has-theme-blue-background-color has-text-color has-white-color\" target=\"_blank\">Find an Agent<\/a>\n  <\/div>\n\n            <\/main>\n        <\/div>\n\n                <div class=\"lg:w-1\/2 first:mt-0 relative h-full lg:flex lg:items-center\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"object-cover w-full relative z-20 my-0  rounded-md hidden lg:block\" src=\"https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Marketplace-Blog-Blocks-Agent-v3.png\" alt=\"investor friendly real estate agent\" title=\"\">\n        <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n  <\/div>\n  \n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n    \n  <div id=\"visibility-group-block_64dd31c79f00f\" class=\"visibility-group  \">\n        \n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"hero-block_64dd2875dba9d\" class=\"first:mt-0 hero-block py-4    has-background has-slate-100-background-color has-text-color has-theme-slate-color\">\n    <div\n        class=\" flex flex-wrap lg:flex-nowrap max-w-screen-xl mx-auto px-4 relative lg:items-center \">\n\n        <div class=\"relative z-30 w-full \">\n            <main class=\"py-4\">\n                \n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading my-0 tracking-tight font-extrabold has-theme-slate-dark-color has-text-color has-large-font-size\">Join the community<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"my-3 md:my-5 lg:my-8 has-theme-slate-color has-text-color\" style=\"font-size:16px;font-style:normal;font-weight:400\">Ready to succeed in real estate investing? Create a free BiggerPockets account to learn about investment strategies; ask questions and get answers from our community of +2 million members; connect with investor-friendly agents; and so much more. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=button-custom-event-block_64dd2888dba9e class='button-custom-event'>\n      <a\n    href=\"https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/signup\"\n        x-on:click=\"window.analytics.track('Blog Block | Acquisition | Free Membership Signup', {\n      referrer: 'https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/blog\/newly-built-condos-make-great-rental-properties-in-cities',\n    });\"\n    class=\" btn-shape inline-block no-underline has-background has-theme-blue-background-color has-text-color has-white-color\" target=\"_blank\">Sign Up<\/a>\n  <\/div>\n\n            <\/main>\n        <\/div>\n\n            <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div>\n  <\/div><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>When discussing rental properties, it&#8217;s common for people to refer to&nbsp;multifamily&nbsp;residences. How many times have you heard someone say something like, \u201cI have 20 units under management,\u201d most of which [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":159074,"featured_media":170386,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[4433,7119],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-170384","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-opinion","category-biggerpockets-daily"],"acf":[],"comment_count":0,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/170384","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/159074"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=170384"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/170384\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/170386"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=170384"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=170384"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=170384"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}