Is Now a Good Time to Buy Rental Property?

With interest rates high and home prices holding, many would-be investors are asking: “Is now really the time to buy?”

Here’s what seasoned investors know: There’s never a perfect time—only the right deal.

What Smart Investors Are Doing in 2025:

• Underwriting conservatively. They’re assuming higher rates, increased vacancy, and realistic rent growth—not best-case scenarios.

• Buying for cash flow first. Appreciation is nice, but cash flow pays the bills. If it doesn't cash flow from day one, they're passing.

• Targeting tired landlords. Many long-time owners are burned out and looking to exit. That creates real opportunity.

• Using creative financing. Think seller carrybacks, subject-to, and HELOC-fueled down payments.

Final Thought:
If you can find a property that performs with conservative numbers, that deal will look even better when rates drop or rents rise. Don’t try to time the market—learn to underwrite for any market.