You are ready to take the plunge and begin investing in your first rental property. Congratulations, but now what do you do? This completely revised edition will guide you step-by-step toward the financial success you desire, covering all the essential topics - property selection, tenant selection, marketing and advertising, credit verification, reference verification, lease agreements, deposits, rent, late notices, essential regulations in all 50 states, and more. This new edition features brand-new stories from real estate investors and landlords, helping you to learn from their mistakes while also leading you in the right direction. Investing in rental properties is one of the smartest investments you can make, allowing you to build equity, generate a steady return on your investment, and enhance your cash flow. For many people, rental property investing is an ideal part-time business, because your assets appreciate and your cash flow rises even when you are absent.