How do I invest in Utah real estate without guessing?
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The short answer
Start with the numbers, not the photos. A good investment property is one where the rent or resale value covers the price, the repairs, the financing and your time, with room left over for surprises. I have more than 30 years in real estate and construction and 20 plus renovation projects behind me, so I look at a property the way a builder and a buyer would.
What kinds of investments do you help with?
- Long-term rentals: single family homes, townhomes and small multifamily.
- Fix-and-flip and renovation projects.
- Buy, renovate, rent and refinance plans.
- Creative financing, including seller financing and other negotiated terms.
- Out-of-state investors who need someone local to see the property for them.
How do I run the numbers before I buy?
- Purchase price and closing costs.
- Repair and renovation budget, plus a cushion for surprises.
- Financing costs: down payment, rate, points and monthly payment.
- Expected rent or resale value, based on real comparable rentals or sales.
- Ongoing costs: taxes, insurance, HOA dues, utilities, maintenance, vacancy and property management.
- Your exit plan if the market or the project changes.
Why does a construction background matter?
Repairs are where most investment budgets go wrong. I have spent years around builders and job sites, so I can often spot condition issues early and help you think through what a project will really take. I am not a home inspector, so you should still get a professional inspection.
What about short-term rentals?
Rules for short-term and nightly rentals vary by city, county and HOA in Utah and Colorado, and they change. Check the current local rules and the HOA documents before you count on nightly rental income.
Frequently asked questions
This page is general information, not legal, tax or financial advice. Value estimates are opinions of value, not appraisals. Talk with a qualified attorney, tax professional or lender about your situation.