: Most investment lenders require a credit score of 680+ and a down payment of 15–25% for conventional loans.

: It is critical to have 3–6 months of operating expenses saved per property to cover mortgage payments during vacancies or emergency repairs.

: Consult a lender specializing in investment properties to understand your borrowing capacity before shopping. 2. Market Research and Property Selection

: Look for markets with stable population growth, low unemployment, and high occupancy rates (above 90%).

Before searching for properties, ensure your financial foundation is solid.

: Decide between single-family homes (easier to manage), multi-family units (better for cash flow), or short-term rentals.