Most of the rental properties I have are for making profit. But I'll tell the DUmmies a secret. I have bought 2 houses with no intention of making a profit off the rent. I paid more for those than I would have for a rental property. I bought them because I'm speculating the market will turn in a few years then I'll sell them. On one of those homes I break even on the rent. On the other I lose about $100/month.
Why would I buy those? Because there are people who need a good rental property and I need someone to pay for my asset. They get a good deal now, I'll get a good deal a few years from now when I sell them and the person(s) who buy them will get a good deal because I will sell them below market value to move them quickly. It is a win, win, win situation but you would never convince a DUmmie of that. I am an evil landlord because I'm using other people's money to make my living. They will never acknowledge that I put out the first bit of money, took the risk and gave 2 other sets of people a good deal while doing it. All of this while employing; maintenance men, appliance repairmen, carpet cleaners, house cleaners, etc...
KC