The Universal Calculation Engine
Insights
The Universal Calculation Engine

Good Deal vs Bad Deal

A “cheap” house with a failed roof is not cheap; a “full price” house with strong rent can be.

Start this lessonWhat a workable deal includes beyond sticker price

Holistic scorecard

Deals are bundles: purchase price, immediate repair needs, financing terms, ongoing expenses, and your skill or vendor network to manage them.

Quick checks

  • Does rent cover PITI + reserves at conservative vacancy?
  • Are comparable sales and rents documented, not anecdotal?
  • Can you hold through a 12-month tenant gap or rate reset if applicable?

Quantify the trade

Mistakes

  • Falling in love with finishes while ignoring HOA litigation or flood zones.
  • Waiving inspection to win bidding without pricing risk.

Use the calculator

FAQ

One red flag?

Anything you cannot verify with data or a professional—mold, foundation, title—deserves pause or price adjustment.