Trying to get my next property

Trying to get my next property

Boston, MA · Member since 2017 · 10 posts · 4 votes

Stuck on what to do next…

I currently have a 1 bedroom condo in Boston that rents for $1,700. Over all it is in pretty good shape and monthly expenses + mortgage/HOA by the end of the year come out to around $1,100. So as a rough estimate, it cash flows $600/month. It also is on a highly desirable street in an up and coming area. It includes a parking spot and it's a 1 minute walk to the T. Usually when a condo goes up for sale on this street, it's gone in days, sometimes hours. I'm confident that if I listed it for sale, it would go very quick and I could walk away with $75K towards a 1031 exhange.

Or I could just sit on the cash flow! But the problem is, that’s all it will ever be for the foreseeable future. It is only 50% owner occupied, so I can’t do any cash out refi since 51% would be required. I would like to invest in the next property, but I’m finding myself stuck with a down payment issue since the next one would require 20% down.

I’ve looked into areas in Maine, Worcester MA, and Providence when multis are more affordable and cash flow well. The cons: those areas aren’t in as high demand and the tenants will probably be more of a chore. Pros: I think I could get better cash flow and eventually use the equity towards a second investment property.

Curious to hear peoples’ thoughts on this. I’m faced with potentially exchanging a very good thing for something with a lot of unknowns. 

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Boston Area, MA · Member since 2017 · 34 posts · 30 votes
8y

Can you get a HELOC?

I’m located in the Boston area too! I’m finding it difficult to invest in Mass and I’ve started looking out of state. 

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  • China, ME · Member since 2014 · 3k+ posts · 4k+ votes
    8y

    @Pat Clancy  The condo market in most parts of Boston is, a you've observed, hot.  Shoot me the address and I'll run comps for you.

    However, I would wait for the Amazon decision.  If they locate here, values will most likely skyrocket. I'd sell as soon as they make the announcement.

  • Specialist · Milford, ME · Member since 2016 · 630 posts · 378 votes
    8y

    Your pros and cons are accurate but you can get quite a bit more cash flow even with management in the Bangor area. I have a 5 unit that would be more than double that but you would be relying on others to look out for your interests. There is also more security with a multi family as you can have a vacancy and still be positive. I guess it depends where you want to take your investment future.

  • Boston Area, MA · Member since 2017 · 34 posts · 30 votes
    8y

    Can you get a HELOC?

    I’m located in the Boston area too! I’m finding it difficult to invest in Mass and I’ve started looking out of state. 

  • Boston, MA · Member since 2017 · 10 posts · 4 votes
    8y

    I can't HELOC because my condo building is only 50% owner occupied. I need 51% for heloc or cash out refi.

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