Entry and exit · PROPERTY GUIDE
Plan the exit before entering a property investment
Stress-test net cash flow, vacancy, repairs, financing and sale costs before committing.
Define the investment job: income, owner occupation later, business use, redevelopment or capital growth. Calculate net yield after vacancy, management, maintenance, assessment, quit rent, insurance, repairs and financing—not gross rent alone.
Stress-test a longer vacancy, a major repair, higher financing cost and a lower exit price. Keep reserves separate from the deposit and avoid relying on one optimistic rental or appreciation forecast.
Write the exit triggers before purchase: target holding period, minimum acceptable net return, refinancing limits, buyer pool, title restrictions, lock-in costs and applicable Real Property Gains Tax. Review the plan annually using current evidence.