Like any other investments, investing in real estate has its upsides and downsides, and since there are different types of real estate to invest in, finding the right real estate will help you find the upsides. Some of the types of real estate you can invest in are land, waterfront property, rentals, and commercial real estate.

Land: Land is one way you can invest in real estate. There are many types of land to purchase. Before you buy it, make sure that you get it surveyed, by more than one surveyor if necessary. After you find out how much the land is worth, you will need to find out how much it will cost to develop the land.

Land may be zoned as commercial, industrial, or residential (among others). If you want to build a subdivision, make sure you are purchasing land that is zoned residential. Zoning can change over time, which creates a risk when one purchases land and lets it sit undeveloped for long.

You should also consider subdividing the land, and how much it would be worth sold in pieces.

Waterfront Property: There are many who would like to spend a week or two at a beach. Investing in waterfront property, and renting it our year round is a good way to make some money. You can also pencil yourself in for a stay during the off-season.

Rentals: Duplexes and apartments should also be considered when investing in real estate. One problem with multi-unit housing is keeping the rentals filled. Another problem is the potential of having the rentals full with less than desirable renters, who may or may not pay their rent on time.

As with all other forms of real estate, figure out how much the real estate is worthget it appraised. You will also want to find similar housing that has recently been purchased and use that as a guide for what you should be paying.

Also, look at what others are charging for rent, so that you will know approximately how much you can charge, and will be able to make off of your investment.

Here is a checklist of things to do before you purchase a property for investment:

• Have the property examined by an inspector
• Create the contract you will use for renters, if you plan to rent
• With the aid of a real estate agent, determine a monthly rent price, and the price of any move-in fees or deposits.

Commercial real estate: If you dont want to deal with a lot of people, like you would have to with a rental, you may want to consider investing in commercial real estate.

Costs to consider when investing in real estate: With all types of investments you need to keep in mind that there is more to the investment than the initial cost of the real estate. There are property taxes to consider, and the cost of maintaining the investment. Consider these and other costs (including any costs for repairs, advertising, maintenance, etc.) before investing in real estate.

As with other investments it is very appropriate, and smart, to find out as much as you can about the property, since types of real estate investments and the level of risk they pose and level of profit they stand to make you vary widely. Youll have to find one that is best for you not only in terms of finances, but regarding level of convenience and length of investment as well.