Everyone knows that investing in property is a good move.  After all, housing is a tangible resource which is known to appreciate in value over time. When it comes to investment properties  becoming a landlord of a second or third home doesn't necessarily generate as much passive income as many people would think. Being a good landlord while trying to turn a profit on your investment isn't easy, it requires plenty of practice and patience.  If you are new to the game or still on the fence about building an investment property portfolio, here are some useful insights to help you do it well:

Remember That This Is Business

Being a landlord is essentially the business of taking care of a property and ensuring that the real estate investment grows in value through the careful selection and management of tenants. At the end of the day, the property has little to no value if you aren't able to manage it well, find tenants that will pay the rent, and simultaneously take care of the place. Being a landlord isn't for everyone; you need to treat it like a job if you want to turn a profit.

Be Mindful of Asking for a Fair Rental Price

Depending on where you are located, there may be regulations that dictate how much you can charge tenants for rent. Regardless, it is important to ensure that your rental price is fair. Use online resources to work out an accurate rent estimate on your property based on the prices of similar properties in your area and the general demand.  Even though some landlords may get away with overcharging, it may end up meaning a higher turnover of tenants, which could be just as costly and time consuming in the long-term.

Find Yourself Great Tenants

Finding the right tenants from the start can bring a large sense of peace to your venture as a landlord. However, finding good tenants isn't all that straightforward. You'll need to employ a range of marketing techniques to connect with them, so use newspaper listings, online property portals and your personal contacts.

Ensure Your Lease Is Solid

Once you've done the work to find the best tenants for your property, you'll need to create a legally binding agreement with them through the use of a lease. You'll have to ensure your lease is specific to the laws of the state and country that you are based in. It will need to detail the responsibilities of the tenant and landlord. The lease becomes more important if the business relationship between landlord and tenant were ever to sour. Don't cut any corners here, and ensure the lease is as specific and detailed as possible.

Having a rental property can be a lucrative decision if it is done well. Managing your property like a business will be key when it comes to ensuring that you turn a decent profit. If you start strong it will make your life much easier in the long term. Good luck with your venture.