How to Find Great Real Estate Deals in 2026 (Before Anyone Else) (Rookie Reply)

BiggerPockets Blog
Published: December 12, 2025
Regulations & Compliance

Summary

This BiggerPockets article offers advice on evaluating real estate deals, including short-term rentals, with a focus on metrics like cash flow and cash-on-cash return. It stresses the importance of defining your investment goals and understanding local regulations regarding short-term rentals before making a decision. The article also touches upon the pros and cons of using a general contractor for renovation projects.

Key Insights

  • When evaluating a property as an investment, consider cashflow, cash on cash return, and appreciation, and local regulations that might impact short-term rentals.
  • Defining your 'buy box' (purchase price range, desired market, number of rooms, and other criteria) can help streamline the deal selection process.

Action Items

  • Research local regulations regarding short-term rentals to understand any restrictions, permitting requirements, or potential impact on your investment.
    Effort: medium
    Impact: high
  • Before investing, define your investment goals, consider your available time, and determine your risk tolerance.
    Effort: low
    Impact: high

Common Mistakes

  • Failing to check local regulations and permit requirements for renovations can lead to complications and financial setbacks.

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