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What Is Passive Real Estate Investing?

May 4, 2023 by James Scott

What Is Passive Real Estate Investing?Passive real estate investing refers to an investment strategy where an individual invests in real estate assets without being actively involved in the management of those assets. In passive real estate investing, an investor typically provides funds for a real estate project, such as a rental property or commercial development, and receives a return on investment based on the performance of that project.

Passive real estate investing can take various forms, such as investing in real estate investment trusts (REITs), crowdfunding platforms, or private real estate funds. These investment vehicles allow investors to access real estate investments without the need to purchase and manage properties themselves.

Ways To Get Involved In Passive Real Estate Investing

It is important to thoroughly research and understand the risks associated with any real estate investment before committing funds. There are several ways to get involved in passive real estate investing, including:

Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs): REITs are investment vehicles that own and manage income-generating real estate properties. Investors can buy shares in a publicly traded REIT, which typically pays dividends based on the rental income generated by its properties.

Real Estate Crowdfunding Platforms: Real estate crowdfunding platforms allow investors to pool their funds with other investors to invest in a specific real estate project. Investors can choose which projects to invest in and typically receive a return based on the project’s performance.

Private Real Estate Funds: Private real estate funds are investment funds that pool capital from multiple investors to invest in real estate properties. These funds are managed by a professional team that is responsible for identifying and managing the properties in the fund’s portfolio.

Real Estate ETFs: Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) are similar to REITs in that they invest in real estate properties, but they are traded like stocks on an exchange. Real estate ETFs provide investors with exposure to the real estate market while offering liquidity and diversification.

Rental Properties: While owning rental properties may require some level of active management, investors can hire property managers to handle day-to-day tasks such as finding tenants, collecting rent, and maintenance. Rental properties can provide investors with passive income through rental income and the potential for capital appreciation.

Passive real estate investing is often considered a way to diversify an investment portfolio and generate passive income, as real estate investments can provide regular cash flow through rental income or dividends. It is important to research and understand the risks associated with any real estate investment before investing. Consider consulting with a financial advisor to determine which type of passive real estate investment is best suited to your investment goals and risk tolerance.

Filed Under: Investment Properties Tagged With: Investment, Real Estate, Rentals

The Most Common Real Estate Investing Terms You Need To Know

February 22, 2023 by James Scott

The Most Common Real Estate Investing Terms You Need To KnowIf you are thinking about investing in real estate, you probably know it is a great way to diversify your investments. But, like any investment, you must make sure you choose your targets wisely. That means understanding a lot of the jargon in the field. You will come across a lot of real estate investing terms, but what are some of the most important ones you need to know?

Hard Money Loan

There are a variety of real estate loan options, and one frequent choice among real estate investors is called a hard money loan. This is typically a loan that comes from private lenders that can help you finance a real estate purchase quickly. If you see an outstanding real estate investment opportunity, you need to act fast. While a private lender can give you a hard money loan quickly, it generally comes with a higher interest rate. 

Net Operating Income (NOI)

Your net operating income refers to the yearly revenue you generate from your investment property. As a real estate investor, each property will come with its own overhead expenses. Some of the most common examples include your mortgage, real estate taxes, home insurance, and any property management fees. After you deduct all of these expenses, what’s left over is typically called your net operating income.

Debt-To-Income Ratio (DTI)

When you apply for a real estate loan to help you purchase a new property, the lender is going to evaluate your debt-to-income ratio, also known as your DTI. This metric compares the amount of debt you carry to your monthly gross income. All real estate lenders are going to examine this ratio to make sure you can afford to purchase new property. By paying down some of your existing debt, you may qualify for more favorable loan terms. 

Find The Best Real Estate Investments For Your Needs

If you keep these investment terms in mind, you will have an easier time evaluating your prospects. That way, you can figure out which real estate investments can help you maximize your return. Keep in mind that you do not have to go through this on your own. There are professionals who can lend a helping hand to those in need. 

 

Filed Under: Real Estate Tagged With: i, Investment, Real Estate

Should You Sell Or Rent Your Primary Residence

January 24, 2023 by James Scott

Should You Sell Or Rent Your Primary Residence Are you interested in purchasing a rental property? Instead of buying a new one, you might want to convert your primary residence into a rental property, particularly if you plan on moving in the near future. At the same time, you might think it is better to sell the property and take the cash instead. Which option is best for you?

Potential Issues Converting Your Primary Residence To A Rental Property

If you want to convert your primary residence into a rental property, there are a few important issues to keep in mind. First, you must make sure you have lived in the home long enough to qualify for beneficial mortgage rates. Because the property is your primary residence, you probably received a lower interest rate. Check your mortgage contract and make sure you have lived in the property long enough to convert it to a rental property. You don’t want to be accused of mortgage fraud.

Also, remember that your real estate taxes might go up if you convert your primary residence into a rental property. You qualify for lower real estate taxes if you live in the home you own. Once the government realizes you no longer live there, your real estate taxes could rise. 

The Benefits Of Converting It To A Rental Property

If you can navigate these issues, there are a few benefits to converting your primary residence to a rental property. For example, you will have an additional, reliable stream of passive income that you might be able to use to qualify for your next mortgage. Furthermore, the amount of money you may charge for rent could go up over time.

You can hold the property for a longer amount of time, so you will enjoy additional capital appreciation. That means if you wait longer to sell the property, you should get more money for it. 

Think About Your Choices Carefully

You should think carefully about whether you want to sell your primary residence or convert it to a rental property. Each option has its benefits and drawbacks, and you need to think about which choice is best for your needs. Do not hesitate to reach out to an expert who can help you. 

Filed Under: Real Estate Tagged With: Investment, Primary Residence, Real Estate

7 Inexpensive Upgrades You Can Make To Your Rental Property

April 13, 2021 by James Scott

7 Inexpensive Upgrades You Can Make To Your Rental PropertyUpgrading your rental doesn’t need to cut deeply into your profits. You can add curb appeal and help prospective tenants see your rental as their next home by making some simple changes. The following upgrades are all things that a handy landlord can do without needing to hire professional contractors.

1.  Decorative Switch Plates

Replace ugly cream switch plates with either stainless steel models or decorative designs. Fancy switch plates for light switches and electrical sockets cost very little, yet make any room look nicer. The best part is, you can do the replacements yourself, using only a screwdriver.

2.  Flower Beds

Beautiful flower beds make any rental look more inviting. You can enhance curb appeal by planting inexpensive perennials around the front of the rental and along the pathway leading up to the door. Top off your newly planted flower beds with a fresh layer of colored mulch.

3. Kitchen Cabinet Refacing

Kitchen cabinets are pricey, but it’s cheap to just reface existing cabinets. You can either replace the entire doors or take them off and give them a fresh sanding and a couple of coats of varnish or paint.

4. Fresh Paint

Even quality paint is inexpensive. Give your rental a beautiful new look with fresh paint throughout. You’ll want to use neutral tones, but consider making an accent wall, painted with an attractive color.

5. New Light Fixtures

Old light fixtures make a place look dated. You can pick up inexpensive light fixtures at big box home improvement stores. This simple upgrade will make your rental more attractive and modern.

6. Broom Storage Area

Most rentals don’t come with a broom closet, but you can create a makeshift broom storage area very cheaply. Just pick up some plastic broom holders and a shelf from the hardware store. Attach the broom holders to the wall and hang the shelf over that. Your tenants will appreciate the upgrade!

7. Fresh Window Treatments

Window treatments make a house look like a home. Replace window blinds or shades for an instant upgrade. Curtains are even cheaper and can be laundered and reused between rentals.

No matter where your rental is located, you can make it more attractive with these easy and inexpensive upgrades that you can do yourself.

Filed Under: Investment Properties Tagged With: Home Improvement, Investment, Renting

Five Things to Do With a Windfall Other Than Spend it Right Away

June 14, 2019 by James Scott

Five Things to Do with a Windfall Other Than Spend it Right Away

Perhaps you have won the lottery, received an inheritance, or cashed in one of your investments, and now you have a large sum of money you don’t know what to do with.

Although it is tempting to cruise around town in a brand new sports car it is important to think carefully about how to spend your newfound cash.

To give you some ideas on the smartest way to use your new wealth, here are five things to do with a windfall other than spend it right away:

1. Erase Your Debt

Your new found money will allow you to clear up all of your debts, which will lift a huge financial burden off your back and give you a lot of freedom. Start with the debts with the highest interest first, such as your credit card debts.

2. Create an Emergency Fund

Calculate how much money you would need to cover your living expenses for 6 months. Take this amount off your windfall and place it into a savings account. This money will be your fail safe. In case of an emergency, such as you hurt yourself, become ill, or lose your job, you will have enough money to live comfortably until times get better, without having to go into debt.

3. Invest in Your Home

If you spend your windfall on a renovation for your home, there is a good chance that you can increase your property value enough to make it more than worth it. Talk to estate agents in your area to determine which type of home improvement will increase your home’s value the most, but usually kitchens and bathrooms are the best rooms to update.

4. Buy a Vacation Property

Consider putting your newfound wealth into a holiday home overseas in a popular destination. You will be able to enjoy lounging on the beach there, and when you are not using it you can rent out the home to tourists to cover the costs. Later on in life when you want to retire, you will always have the option of moving there!

5. Live Off the Interest

If you won a million dollars in the lottery, you could spend it right away on a huge house and a car and then have nothing left. Or, you place it in an investment account and have it earn 6% annually. At this rate you would have approximately $5,000 per month or $60,000 per year without ever touching your initial sum. You could easily live off this amount and never have to work again.

These are a few ideas of what you could do with your money if you are lucky enough to receive an unexpected windfall.

Do you have any other ideas of how you could use your windfall?

Filed Under: Personal Finance Tagged With: Inheritance, Investment, Windfall

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