There’s no shortage of bad advice floating around—especially when it comes to real estate. I hear the same myths over and over again from new investors trying to break into the Denver market. Here are ten of the worst:
- “You need 20% down to buy a property.”
Not true. Creative financing, seller carrybacks, and SBA-backed partnerships all exist for a reason.
- “Cash flow doesn’t matter—just wait for appreciation.”
Wrong. That’s speculation, not investing. If it doesn’t cash flow today, it’s not a solid deal.
- “Mid-term rentals are illegal in Denver.”
False. You just need to know the zoning rules and where you’re allowed to operate. There are plenty of legal, profitable MTRs in the metro area.
- “You should only buy in trending neighborhoods.”
By the time a neighborhood trends, prices are already inflated. I prefer undervalued areas with stable tenant demand.
- “Only multi-family properties make sense.”
Single-family homes, especially with co-living models, can outperform traditional multi-family deals when structured correctly.
- “You need a real estate license to get into the game.”
Not at all. Being licensed has benefits, but you don’t need one to own or operate properties.
- “You have to manage everything yourself.”
You can outsource management, maintenance, even leasing—if your numbers support it.
- “It’s too late to invest in Denver.”
Every cycle says that. What matters is finding your edge in today’s conditions.
- “Only big players win in real estate.”
I started with zero institutional backing. So do many others. It’s about leverage and strategy, not just money.
- “The only way to make money is through appreciation.”
Appreciation is icing. Cash flow is the cake.
If you’re looking at Denver real estate, don’t let myths hold you back. The game is still very playable—if you know the rules.