When it comes to real estate investment, there are many factors that should be considered before taking the leap. Investors often speak of the general economic conditions as their main impetus for investing or holding back. However, this should not be the only criteria that you work under. Demographics should also be very carefully considered. Here are three reasons to analyze demographic data before investing in real estate.

It can easily be surmised that there are definitely more than 3 myths about REI. Very likely, you've heard multiple wild tales, odd conjectures, and serious head scratchers. Once people know you are considering REI, the advice will just roll in. Depending on whether it's from the guy next door whose third cousin tried it, other investors, or even the get rich quick guys on late night TV, there are probably plenty of confusing cross signals to go around. For the sake of keeping it brief, I will confine my input to just 3 random bits of dubious wisdom making the rounds.

Successful real estate investors know that they need to re-evaluate their strategy regularly. That strategy, however, is founded in a solidly constructed investment philosophy. Knowing what you need to do to withstand the ups and downs of the market is key. Keeping a reasoned and consistent outlook on where you want to be and how best to get there is the substance of that philosophy.

Wholesalers, flippers, and sellers. Oh, my. Anyone considering real estate investment (REI) needs to research the various avenues used to create a successful business. Get to know the business from others involved. Talk to agents. Discuss options with lenders, both standard mortgage and hard money. Remember, you are looking at being a business professional, creating profitable deals for the seller, the rehab flipper, or general investor, as well as yourself.

Real Estate Investments are tricky things, and while a property might seem like the perfect investment, given the rate of market growth in an area, the equation isn't as simple as, "Will the value be greater in a year?" So…..When Should You Walk Away from an REI Deal?

Real estate investment wins or loses by the numbers, specifically by key ratios. Metrics like monthly rent as a percentage of purchase price, cash flow per rental unit, and debt coverage ratio give investors a road map to REI success and, sometimes, a red flag signalling potentially disastrous deals.

Non-professionals can effectively tackle many home improvement projects with basic knowledge, a little research, and the correct tools. However, some jobs are best left to a licensed contractor in order to achieve the best results possible.

For real estate investors, pre-foreclosure or short sale listings are a potential gold mine. The owners of these homes are often in serious default and they desperately need to sell fast. Homes that fit this category are plentiful and a savvy investor can score some incredible deals. Here are some tips for investors on how to find and navigate a short sale.

Real estate remains a sound investment, especially for experienced borrowers in this buyer’s market. But being successful, even if you have experience buying and managing rental properties, still requires that you do your homework and employ some smart strategies to realize a maximum return on your investment.

If you are considering whether you should search locally for your private money lender, you most likely know that local lenders are often viewed positively because of the personal attention they provide you with. Larger national banks tend not to have the same type of face to face opportunities. However, in addition to creating a trustworthy relationship with your lender, local lenders are able to provide faster loan processing, a greater chance of loan approval, and less of a risk on defaulting.