You may have heard the quote by John Stuart Mill that says “landlords get rich in their sleep without working.” This sounds like a worthy aspiration for the beginning investor–but how does one get started investing in real estate, and how much capital is required? Let’s delve into these questions and more a first-time investor might have about investing in real estate to demystify this topic and provide actionable, entry-level opportunities.
How Much Money Do You Need to Invest in Real Estate?
There is a myth floating around that in order to invest in a property, you need to have collected at least 2% of the cost of the house in order to offer a viable down payment on a property. However, in the modern era, there are more and more alternative ways to invest in real estate, including house hacking, flipping homes, and even fractional real estate. Would you believe us if we told you that you could get started on your real estate journey for as little as $20 in the world of share-by-share investing?
How Leverage Turns a Little Money into a Lot
Leverage is a key concept in real estate that enables investors to amplify their returns using borrowed capital. While traditional financing methods involve obtaining a mortgage, fractional real estate takes leverage to a new level by allowing investors to pool funds and collectively borrow against a property’s value.
Consider this scenario: A group of investors collectively contributes $1,000,000 to purchase a property through fractional ownership. If the property appreciates in value by 10%, the total gain is $100,000. However, each investor’s $20 contribution now represents a share of that gain, magnifying their return on investment. Leverage, in this context, transforms a small individual investment into a proportionate stake in a much larger asset.
Additionally, leveraging fractional ownership helps mitigate risk. Since your exposure is limited to your investment, the potential downside is also restricted. This contrasts with traditional real estate investments, where an individual might be heavily exposed to the fluctuations of a single property.
Think About Investing in Rental Property
Investing in rental properties remains a time-tested strategy for building wealth, offering a range of financial benefits and opportunities. Two popular approaches within the realm of real estate investment are house hacking and flipping investment properties, each offering distinct advantages.
Benefits of House Hacking
House hacking is a savvy strategy that involves living in one unit of a multi-unit property while renting out the others. This method not only helps offset mortgage costs but can potentially result in living rent-free. The benefits of house hacking extend beyond financial gains, fostering a practical understanding of property management and landlord responsibilities.
One key advantage is the ability to leverage other people’s money through rental income to cover your housing expenses. This can significantly reduce the financial burden associated with homeownership, making it an attractive option for those looking to invest with limited capital.
Moreover, house hacking provides a unique opportunity to build equity and generate cash flow, laying the groundwork for future investments. As you move forward, the property can evolve into a full-fledged income-generating asset, contributing to long-term financial stability.
Consider Flipping Investment Properties
Flipping investment properties involves purchasing distressed or undervalued properties, renovating them, and selling or renting them at a higher price to turn a profit. While house hacking focuses on long-term gains, flipping is a more dynamic and short-term strategy for those seeking quicker returns.
The appeal of flipping lies in its potential for substantial profit in a relatively short period. With a keen eye for market trends and a knack for renovations, investors can capitalize on the demand for turnkey homes. However, this strategy requires a deeper understanding of the real estate market, renovation costs, and the ability to navigate potential risks.
Flipping is not without challenges, and success hinges on meticulous planning and execution. Investors must accurately assess the market, manage renovation expenses, and time their sales to maximize profits. Despite the higher level of involvement and risk, successful property flips can yield significant financial rewards.
At a Glance: Residential vs. Commercial Real Estate
For aspiring real estate investors with limited capital, the choice between residential and commercial properties is a crucial decision that can significantly impact the trajectory of their investment journey. Each sector presents unique advantages and challenges, and understanding their dynamics is essential for making informed choices when operating on a tight budget.
Residential Real Estate
Accessible Entry Point:
Residential real estate is often considered a more accessible entry point for investors with minimal capital. Single-family homes, duplexes, or small multi-unit properties are common choices that require a lower upfront investment compared to their commercial counterparts. This affordability enables investors to dip their toes into the real estate market without a substantial financial commitment.
Stable Cash Flow:
Residential properties, particularly those in desirable locations, tend to attract a steady stream of potential tenants. This can provide a reliable source of rental income, helping to offset mortgage payments and other expenses. For investors with limited capital, the stability of cash flow is a significant advantage, providing a safety net and the potential for gradual wealth accumulation.
Easier Management:
Managing residential properties is often more straightforward than overseeing commercial spaces. Dealing with individual tenants and handling day-to-day property issues may be less complex than managing a commercial property with multiple tenants and diverse lease agreements. For investors looking to actively participate in property management with minimal capital, residential real estate may offer a more manageable starting point.
Commercial Real Estate
Potential for Higher Returns:
While the barrier to entry is higher in commercial real estate, the potential for higher returns can make it an attractive option for investors seeking substantial profits. Commercial properties, such as office buildings, retail spaces, or warehouses, often command higher rental rates than residential properties. If an investor can secure a commercial property with strategic potential, the returns on investment may outpace those of residential properties.
Diversification and Scalability:
Commercial real estate allows for greater diversification and scalability. Investors can diversify their portfolio by investing in different types of commercial properties or across various geographic locations. As the portfolio grows, investors may have the opportunity to engage in more significant deals and partnerships, potentially increasing their returns over time.
Longer Lease Terms:
Commercial leases typically come with longer terms compared to residential leases. While this can mean more stability for the investor, it also comes with the potential downside of extended vacancies if a tenant decides not to renew. This aspect should be carefully considered, especially for those with limited capital who may be more vulnerable to prolonged periods without rental income.
How to Determine if You Can Afford to Invest in Real Estate
Investing in real estate can be a lucrative venture, but before diving in, it’s crucial to assess your financial capacity to ensure a successful and sustainable investment. Two widely recognized rules in the realm of real estate investing—the 1% rule and the 70% rule—can serve as valuable guidelines to help you determine whether you can afford to take the plunge.
The 1% rule in real estate investing
The 1% rule is a straightforward metric that many real estate investors swear by when evaluating the potential profitability of a property. According to this rule, a property’s monthly rental income should be at least 1% of its total acquisition cost. This means that if you purchase a property for $200,000, the monthly rental income should ideally be $2,000 or more.
The logic behind the 1% rule is rooted in ensuring a positive cash flow from your investment property. By adhering to this guideline, you increase the likelihood of covering mortgage payments, property taxes, maintenance costs, and other expenses while still generating a profit. However, it’s important to note that the 1% rule is a rule of thumb rather than an absolute mandate, and local market conditions may influence its applicability.
To implement the 1% rule effectively, conduct thorough market research to understand the average rental prices in the area where you plan to invest. Additionally, consider the overall condition of the property, potential renovation costs, and any regulatory restrictions that may impact your ability to achieve the desired rental income.
70% rule
While the 1% rule focuses on rental income, the 70% rule takes a more holistic approach by considering the total investment cost, including potential renovation expenses. According to the 70% rule, the maximum amount you should be willing to pay for a property is 70% of its after-repair value (ARV) minus the estimated repair costs.
For example, if a property has an ARV of $300,000 and requires $30,000 in repairs, the maximum you should pay for the property under the 70% rule would be $180,000 ($300,000 * 0.70 – $30,000).
The 70% rule guards against overpaying for a property and helps ensure that there is sufficient room for profit after factoring in renovation expenses. This rule is particularly relevant for those engaging in fix-and-flip strategies, where the goal is to purchase distressed properties, renovate them, and sell at a higher price.
What Real Estate Investors Should Look for in a Property
There are many factors to consider when selecting an investment property. Here are the top seven for beginners to think about when it comes to finding the right property to kick off their portfolio:
1. Location:
- Proximity to amenities, schools, and public transportation.
- Neighborhood safety and crime rates.
- Future development plans and infrastructure improvements.
2. Market Trends:
- Local market conditions, including supply and demand.
- Historical property value trends in the area.
- Economic indicators and job market stability.
3. Affordability and Financing:
- Purchase price within budget constraints.
- Mortgage interest rates and financing options.
- Potential for positive cash flow after expenses.
4. Property Condition:
- Structural integrity and overall condition.
- Potential repair and renovation costs.
- Inspection reports for a comprehensive assessment.
5. Rental Potential:
- Demand for rental properties in the area.
- Projected rental income compared to mortgage and expenses.
- Tenant demographics and local rental regulations.
6. Appreciation Potential:
- Historical and projected property value appreciation.
- Local economic growth and development prospects.
- Long-term potential for increased property value.
7. Exit Strategy:
- Clear understanding of investment goals and timeline.
- Flexibility in adapting to changing market conditions.
- Options for resale, rental income, or property redevelopment.
Alternative Real Estate Options (Less Capital Required)
Alternative real estate investment options, such as share-by-share investing, are ushering in a revolution in the real estate industry by democratizing access and broadening opportunities for a wider audience. Traditionally, real estate investing required significant capital, limiting participation to a select few. However, with the advent of share-by-share investing platforms, individuals can now invest in real estate with minimal capital, breaking down financial barriers and allowing a more diverse range of investors to enter the market.
This innovation enables people to purchase fractional shares of high-value properties, spreading the financial commitment and risk among a group of investors. As a result, the real estate investment landscape is becoming more inclusive and accessible to entry-level investors, providing them with a chance to build wealth through real estate in a way that was once reserved for a privileged few. This shift represents a fundamental transformation in the industry, making real estate investment a democratic endeavor that aligns with the evolving financial aspirations of a broader population.
Think you’re ready to start investing? Start shopping properties today and kickstart your financial future for as little as $20!
