Things To Know Before You Start Investing In Real Estate (Due Diligence)

In this episode of Uncontested Investing, we're getting into one of the most critical (and often overlooked) parts of real estate investing — due diligence. Whether you're buying your first property or scaling your portfolio, your profit is made long before closing, and due diligence is how you protect it. We walk through a comprehensive investor checklist, covering everything from verifying disclosures, zoning, and title issues to assessing flood zones, insurance, and environmental risks. We also discuss the power of local networking, using your professional partners wisely, and why your inspection reports and documentation can make or break your next deal. If you're ready to level up your investing game and avoid costly surprises, this episode gives you the exact framework for doing your homework the right way every time. Key Talking Points of the Episode 00:00 Introduction 01:48 Reviewing property listings and disclosures 02:31 Key objectives for due diligence 03:37 Verifying permits, renovations, and property records 04:20 Market analysis: comps, absorption rates, and upcoming development plans 05:36 Why clear title, liens, and ownership verification matter 06:34 Boundary disputes and surveys: ensuring your property lines are accurate 07:44 Structural and system inspections: roofing, foundation, plumbing, electrical, HVAC 09:49 Zoning and code compliance: understanding setbacks, density limits, and regulations 11:45 Financial due diligence: taxes, assessments, and understanding true operating costs 12:29 Condo considerations: rental limits, HOA bylaws, and special assessments 14:34 Reviewing title insurance and old deeds 16:11 Environmental and site assessments: when to order a Phase I or Phase II 17:07 Real-life lessons from an old hat factory and contamination issues 18:34 Partnering with local experts: attorneys, inspectors, surveyors, and environmental specialists 20:32 Documenting and keeping records for recourse and resale value 22:30 Networking, organization, and how due diligence builds investor confidence Quotables "Try not to learn from your mistakes, learn from somebody else's." "Due diligence is about unveiling the potholes before you drive over them." "Networking makes due diligence less overwhelming. You don't have to do it alone." Links RCN Capital https://www.rcncapital.com/podcast https://www.instagram.com/rcn_capital/ [email protected] REI INK https://rei-ink.com/