90% of Investors Lost Money on a Rental at Some Point (Here’s How To Avoid It) | Ep 103

(Watch the YouTube video of this episode here)

 

 

In this episode of the Furlo Capital Real Estate Podcast, we dive into the statistics and reasons behind why almost nine out of 10 real estate investors lose money at some point in their careers. We'll discuss common pitfalls, such as poor tenant screening, overpaying for properties, and long periods of vacancy, and provide actionable tips on how to avoid these issues. Join us as we explore the intricacies of passive real estate investing and share strategies to help you build mathematical wealth while improving housing.

// Key Moments

• 00:00 Intro0
• 1:47 The Real Estate Investor's Dilemma: Stats and Stories
• 04:51 Common Pitfalls: Tenant Troubles and Property Damage
• 08:15 Financial Regrets: Overpaying and Emotional Purchases
• 10:57 The Importance of Proper Screening and Management
• 14:40 Property Management Challenges
• 16:44 Tenant Screening Issues
• 23:42 Legal and Financial Considerations
• 26:02 Mitigating Investment Regrets
• 27:58 Conclusion and Resources

// 7 Key Lessons

1. Treat underwriting like real math, not wishful thinking: Don’t rely on “perfect math.” Stress test your numbers, include vacancy, turnover, CapEx, and stop assuming rents will magically rise. 
2. Screen tenants like your returns depend on it (because they do): Weak screening causes 80% of investor pain — bad tenants, property damage, and expensive turnover. Build a criteria, follow it, and never rush to fill a vacancy. 
3. Outsource or systemize operations before they sink you: Many regrets come from slow turnovers, poor oversight, and long vacancies. Good operations eliminate most problems before they happen. 
4. Judge the operator more than the asset: Whether that operator is you or a sponsor, their systems, transparency, and discipline matter more to the investment’s performance than the property’s shape or ZIP code. 
5. Know your market or the market will humble you: Rents might be flat or even declining. Overpricing your unit guarantees vacancy. Price for today’s demand, not your hopes. 
6. Invest in education or pay for ignorance later: Nearly one-quarter of investors regret not knowing enough. This isn’t an index fund — it’s a business. Learn the basics before writing checks. 
7. Use a second set of eyes when underwriting: A neutral party can catch the emotional leaps, bad assumptions, or “this looks good enough” moments that lead to regret.

 // Let's build your wealth and improve housing, together.

I spent 12 years as a data scientist at HP and purchased $5M worth of real estate over 15 years using my own money. Now, I'm partnering with busy professionals to diversify their investments and generate passive income through real estate syndications and short-term flips—without dealing with tenants, toilets, or tantrums.

At Furlo Capital, we believe real estate isn't just a transaction; it's a partnership. Our value-add approach creates win-win situations where residents thrive, and investors build wealth. We're not just in this to make money—we want to make a difference.

If you're ready to diversify from stock market volatility and want reliable, steady returns, let's build your wealth and improve housing, together.Want to dive deeper into my investing thesis and strategy?

👉 Learn more: https://furlo.com

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// DisclaimerPlease note that investing in private placement securities entails a high degree of risk, including illiquidity of the investment and loss of principal. Please refer to the subscription agreement for a discussion of risk factors.