Real estate has proven to be a lucrative investment for many and offers some unique benefits you won’t get by putting your money into a retirement account or stocks and bonds. If you’re interested in a new investment opportunity, start looking at homes for sale. JoAnn Meier at RE/MAX First Choice has shared a few reasons why property in Waterloo, IL, is a smart place to put your money.

Here are a few reasons why real estate should be your next financial move:

• Reliable Cash Flow: Many investment accounts won’t bring you stable cash flow through the life of the investment, but a property does. Hire a property management company to find tenants for your property, and your tenants could pay off the mortgage, or at least most of it, on your behalf with very little effort required from you. This is a reliable cash flow that can increase each year if you’re in a good market.
• Tax Perks: Owning a rental property can save you money on taxes each year. The government rewards rental property owners by offering lower tax rates on long-term profits, as well as short-term deductions.
• Appreciation: While the real estate market isn’t always predictable and values fluctuate, you can usually rely on property to appreciate over time. Most property owners feel confident their property will be worth more a few decades down the road, and they are usually right. While you’re earning regular cash flow and enjoying tax savings, you can time selling a house you own with the market for maximum equity.

Whether it’s your first time buying a house or you’re an experienced investor, JoAnn Meier at RE/MAX First Choice can help you make a smart purchase. Contact them at (618) 939-6003 to speak with a real estate agent about your financial goals. They will take you to see homes for sale that fit your criteria and negotiate the best price on your behalf. Visit them online to view current listings.