How do you know how much money you need to start investing? Begin

[Antonio Cucciniello]

One of the things I see most beginner investors say is: “I want to invest in real estate, but I am just in the saving phase right now.”

I got one tip for you. FIGURE OUT THE EXACT NUMBER OTHERWISE YOU WILL NEVER INVEST.

I learned this the hard way of waiting for 4 years...

Until I figured out that exact number. So I created a this google form that helps guide you and sends you a number based on where you are.

If you don’t want it to be calculated for you here are the steps on what to do:

1. Figure out exactly what the home values are in the area you are planning on investing.

2. For arguments sake, pick the median home value. (Example for me it is $193,000)

3. Figure out what kind of loan you are planning on using

4. What is the down payment of the loan? (0%, 3.5%, 5%, 10%, 20%, 25%)

5. Take that down payment number, multiply it by the price of the home found in step 2

6. Multiply about 3% to 5% for closing costs on the house (0.03 * Home value) and (0.05 * home value)

7. Add the number from step 6 to step 7. That’s what you need to buy a median priced home in your area. That’s what you should set as your saving goal.

Did I miss anything here? Experienced investors, please chime in.  I actually created a google form that calculates this stuff for you and gives you your exact number you need to invest. If you want it please dm me, I am not allowed to post it here!

[Will Fraser]

Hey @Antonio Cucciniello, this is a cool idea!  The only thing I would add to this would be a "reserves fund" box, which could be optional, that would guide the prospective investor to think about the wisdom of holding some cash or liquid-equity for the inevitable burst pipe, slab leak, electrical failure, roof replacement, $500 of new blinds, etc.