A big factor for me would be the tax write offs for rental property. Do you know how much you can write it down every year. I am in a high tax bracket and thats why I would treat it like an IRA. Its a way to save money tax free and then when I retire I can take the income either by a sale or continuing to rent at a lower tax bracket. The problem with the REIT is that I dont get to stay downtown when my property is empty, which is a big plus for me. I will get value out of my place either rented or not to some degree. I plan to buy multiple downtown condos in different price ranges and areas but I plan to stay away from the high end. Does it make sense to buy in the middle of the building with some view but not so much I have to pay the big premium. Seems like these are the best because the rental price would still be reasonable but someone will not get the bottom of the barrel place. I dont want renters who are just looking for the cheapest place they can find. Also want buildings with reasonable ammenities but not so much that the HOA is over $600.
Thanks again!
