Being a landlord can be a terrific way to create passive income and build your wealth. As with all lucrative work, however, it's important to be prepared for the responsibilities that come with owning rental properties. You may want to consider hiring a property manager or a CPA - or both - if you don't have the time or expertise to be a hands-on landlord and manage the properties yourself. You’ll need to decide what works for you before making a decision about which landlord style is best: hands-on or hiring a property manager.

If you are investing in rental properties, then you’ll become well-acquainted with the Schedule E tax form. The Schedule E is where you’ll report all of your expenses and income for the year, and take advantage of any deductions you may want to claim.

As a real estate investor, accounting is part of your daily life. You have to monitor the cash flow in, and make sure you’re managing your outflow in a profitable manner. For many investors, a paper accounting system is the one they know and use. However, if paper is holding you back, do what other successful landlords have done and make the switch to an accounting software program. 

For the most part, it’s a great time to be an investor: interest rates are low, and home values are climbing in most areas. In fact, metro areas like DC are growing rapidly, which means there’s a good chance you’ll get high returns from your investment.

Being a good landlord takes practice, and no matter how much you read, there really isn’t a substitute for experience. But if you are thinking about investing in rental property or you are a new rental property owner, there are a few basic rules that will help you hit the ground running.

If you are investing in rental properties, then you’ll become well-acquainted with the Schedule E tax form. The Schedule E is where you’ll report all of your expenses and income for the year, and take advantage of any deductions you may want to claim.