Real estate is always a sound investment option. So if you have the money, and can afford to buy an additional house, you may as well buy one and rent it out. The money you earn through rent can help pay your monthly mortgage instalments and is well worth it. So when can you buy houses to rent out?   1. It is always better to buy a house when the real estate rates are down. This usually arises with a bad economy, or when there is a general slouch in the real estate rates because of political or regional reasons.   2. It is better to invest in a locale where a new school or commercial complex will be built. Schools mean children and commercial complexes, offices and shops which people will have to run. This in turn spells a requirement for houses in its proximity.   3. Make sure you buy a house that is in your budget, so that you don't end up in debt trying to recover the money you had spent for the house.   Buying too expensive a home is not advised for renting purposes as not many people are ready to pay high rental rates you have to quote to recover your money.