Getting into real estate investing can be a difficult task when you don’t have much money to start with. This should not discourage aspiring investors, though, as there are plenty of creative ways to get into the market without a large wad of cash.
One way to do this is by house hacking. This involves buying a multifamily property and living in one of the units while renting out the others.
1. Invest in a REIT
Real estate investment trusts (REITs) are like real estate mutual funds that offer a passive income and property ownership without the risk and responsibilities of purchasing, financing, maintaining, and renting out a physical property. REITs also can help diversify a portfolio. REIT shares can be bought and sold on stock market exchanges. Some REITs, such as the publicly traded ones on M1 Finance, have low minimum investments.
Private REITs are usually only open to accredited investors, which is generally defined as having a net worth of $1 million excluding their primary residence or annual income of $200,000. If you qualify, you can purchase real estate through these REITs for the same price as a single-family home. However, the risks are higher. You may have to wait longer for a return on your investment.
2. Invest in Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs)
If you don’t have a lot of money, investing in REITs is a good option. Instead of purchasing physical real estate, REITs invest in companies that own property. You can purchase REIT shares through a brokerage or your workplace retirement plan.
Residential REITs typically perform well in markets with low vacancy rates and rising rents. These REITs also offer inflation protection that some other assets don’t.
Mortgage REITs (mREITs) invest in both equity and debt instruments, and they’re a great diversifier. However, they’re not without risk. Rising interest rates could erode mortgage REIT book value, driving stock prices down. In addition, these investments are taxable and aren’t as liquid as stocks or bonds. As with any investment, you should research each REIT thoroughly to find the best one for you.
3. Invest in Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs)
REITs are a good option for people who want to invest in real estate but don’t have the cash to buy properties. They can also be an excellent way to diversify your investments.
However, it’s important to do your research before investing in REITs. Some REITs are more risky than others. For example, mortgage REITs use debt to purchase real estate and can be especially vulnerable to changes in interest rates.
When choosing REITs, look for ones that invest in property sectors that are growing and have strong management teams. Also, consider a REIT’s funds from operations (FFO), which includes rent and depreciation. FFO is a great way to assess a REIT’s profitability and growth potential. FFO is typically a better indicator of performance than gross income and net income, which can be distorted by accounting practices.
4. Invest in Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs)
Investing in REITs allows individuals to tap into real estate investing without purchasing physical property. Individuals can buy shares of a REIT, which owns and operates income-producing properties like office buildings, malls, apartments, hotels, self-storage facilities, and mortgages or loans.
To find a REIT to invest in, consider its history of returning capital to shareholders and whether it has diversified assets. Look at a REIT’s credit ratings to determine its risk level—invest in REITs with investment-grade credit ratings. REITs that own residential properties are often more recession-resistant than other types of REITs, as people will need housing even during economic downturns.
Also, choose a REIT with a focus in its particular sector or industry. For example, some REITs specialize in hospitals and retirement homes while others may focus on offices or retail spaces.
5. Invest in Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs)
Real estate investment trusts offer a suite of benefits for everyday investors. Unlike direct property ownership, REITs trade on stock exchanges and allow you to diversify your portfolio without tying up significant amounts of capital or taking on excessive risk.
REITs earn returns from the rental income of their properties, and in debt investments, from interest payments along a predetermined amortization schedule. As with all investing, you should research REITs to ensure their financial health and long-term potential.
A good place to start is by evaluating a REIT’s history and its management team. Also, it’s important to check the REIT’s registration with the SEC through its EDGAR system to review annual and quarterly reports and any offering prospectus. All this research will help you determine whether a REIT is right for you.
