Question 1

Can you analyze a rental property directly from Zillow or Redfin?

Accepted Answer

Yes, browser extensions like REI Lense let you analyze rental properties directly on Zillow, Redfin, and Realtor.com listing pages without switching between tabs or manually entering data. The extension pulls property details from the listing and calculates key investment metrics — including estimated rent, cash flow, cap rate, and cash-on-cash return — right on the page as you browse.

Question 2

How do you quickly screen dozens of investment properties?

Accepted Answer

The most efficient way to screen many properties at once is using a map-based analysis tool that evaluates entire neighborhoods simultaneously. City Lense, for example, overlays investment metrics on all visible listings in a selected area, letting you instantly identify which properties meet your criteria. This approach replaces the tedious process of opening each listing individually and running numbers in a spreadsheet.

Question 3

What metrics should I check on every listing before making an offer?

Accepted Answer

Before making an offer on a rental property, evaluate these core metrics: cash-on-cash return (target 8%+ for most markets), cap rate (compare to local averages), monthly cash flow after all expenses, the 1% rule (monthly rent as a percentage of purchase price), gross rent multiplier, and debt service coverage ratio. Also verify rent estimates against local comparables and factor in vacancy rates, maintenance reserves, and property management costs.

Question 4

What is the difference between City Lense and Property Lense?

Accepted Answer

City Lense and Property Lense serve different stages of the property search process. City Lense analyzes many listings within a selected map area simultaneously, giving you a quick overview of investment potential across a neighborhood or city — ideal for identifying promising areas. Property Lense provides a deep analysis of a single listing with detailed financial projections, cash flow breakdowns, and return calculations — used when you want to evaluate a specific property in depth.

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