Firstly, we extend our heartfelt condolences for your loss. We understand that this is a challenging time on multiple fronts, and navigating property ownership can be particularly daunting.
You might be contemplating, “I inherited a house; what should I do with it? Should I consider renting it out or selling it? And if I choose to sell, what’s the best approach?”
Numerous options lie ahead, but rest assured, we’re here to assist you.
Inheriting a House: What’s the Next Step?
Here are several crucial considerations to assist you in making an informed decision:
1) Ensure that the mortgage on the property is settled.
While it may seem obvious, it’s crucial to address the mortgage situation on the inherited property. If the person who bequeathed the property had an outstanding mortgage (unless it was entirely paid off, which is advantageous), you will need to settle it if you intend to retain ownership. Certain banks may permit you to assume the existing loan, but others might require you to refinance it into a new loan. If you don’t qualify for a new loan, renting the property may not be a viable option for you.
2) The success of an investment relies heavily on the proficiency of the manager.
If handling brokers, maintenance, tenants, rent collection, and the intricacies of property management isn’t the most efficient use of your time, consider hiring a professional or opting to sell now. While retaining an inherited property and renting it out for additional income can be a sound strategy, it necessitates being well-prepared to navigate the challenges associated with property management, including tenant and maintenance issues.
3) Owning a property comes with associated costs.
It’s uncommon to encounter a building that has been impeccably maintained. Many inherited houses often require substantial improvements. To gain a comprehensive understanding of necessary tasks over the next five years and estimated costs, it’s advisable to engage a professional property inspector. Unforeseen issues can be exceedingly costly, making a thorough inspection crucial.
4) Achieving top dollar for a property often involves additional expenses
If you prefer to avoid the hassle of making repairs, updating kitchens, improving landscaping, and overall cleanup, there’s no need to worry. We purchase houses in for cash, in their current condition.
5) If the market is projected to outpace your other investment options, holding onto the investment may be a prudent choice.
We can assist you in evaluating the current value of your property and weighing it against the long-term advantages of renting. If there’s an opportunity to leverage the equity in your property for a more lucrative alternative that surpasses the real estate market’s performance, it may be worth considering. Conversely, if you don’t have a more compelling use for the funds and the neighborhood is experiencing an increase in value, holding onto the property could prove to be a wise decision. Real estate can be a lucrative investment when you possess a good understanding of market dynamics.
6) It’s important to note that the government will impose taxes on your gains
Before taking any action, it’s crucial to consult with tax and legal professionals to discuss the implications of your inheritance. There are significant property and income tax consequences that can significantly impact the overall cost of owning your investment.
7) Examine all available options thoroughly.
8) Evaluate a variety of scenarios for comparison.
We can assist you in assessing prices for any property in the vicinity of Bristow. This includes determining the potential selling price in its current condition, the highest price the market would bear if sold today without any improvements, and the anticipated value if retained as a rental (alongside associated costs).