Do you need a few extra bucks?  Maybe you’ve been worrying about those bills.  Actually, you’ve really been worrying a lot.  As a matter of fact, you’ve been sitting up watching those middle-of-the-night infomercials where they always seem to have a quick (and easy) plan to get rich.  You’ve seen the expensive cars and the fabulous yachts and homes.  And all you have to do is buy the CD’s and “How to Be Rich Like I Am” packet—and all those money worries will evaporate.  Right?  Maybe not.  Like they say, the free cheese is usually in a mousetrap.

I’m writing this article on a flight to Seattle where I’m scheduled to present our 236^th No Debt No Sweat! Christian Money Management Seminar.   Over the years, I’ve spoken to most of 100,000 people.  And I’ve counseled with people all over America. 

One thing is true:  In all those conversations I have never had anyone come up and tell me that he’s a multi-millionaire because of a box of books and CD’s he bought on rental real estate.  Is this to say it’s never happened?  No.  But, it is evidence to me that getting rich in the rental real estate business isn’t the slam dunk lots of people think it is.

Now, don’t misunderstand - I like rental real estate.  As a matter of fact, I’ve been a landlord since the 1980’s.  Today I own residential and commercial real estate.  Over the years I’ve made significant money in the business.  But what troubles me is seeing good hearted people who are already in desperate money trouble trying to dig out via rental property. 

The first thing to remember:  Do nothing out of desperation.  The worst time to get into rental real estate is when you are in financial trouble and have no cash flow of your own.  Despite what you’ve heard to the contrary, this business is a cash furnace.  There are more ways to lose money than I have space to write about.  (Believe me, I’ve personally found a bunch of them!)  If you’re interested in rental real estate, there are some fundamentals that can make all the difference between becoming prosperous or impoverished. 

I recommend that you begin by knowing the market.  What are houses selling for, and what are the rents?  The old adage that a house should fetch a monthly rent of 1% of its value sounds great—but in my experience is a rare occurrence.  If you don’t know the market thoroughly, search for someone who does.  You might want to visit a real estate agent that is both knowledgeable, and truthful.  He can help you determine cost/rent ratios to see if it will be a viable investment.  Consider searching out a veteran landlord and ask if he will mentor you.  Maybe he’ll agree to show you the ropes in exchange for some sweat-equity on your part.  As you paint, clean, and lay new carpets in one of his houses, he’ll teach you how to get into the business.