2020 turned the real estate market as we know it on its head. While the fundamental rules of the business stayed the same, there’s no denying that the housing market reacted unpredictably. That’s not surprising in light of the uncharted territory of a global pandemic.

By nature, real estate investing isn’t a particularly speculative investment. While the level of speculation varies among investment strategies, real estate will always be more sure (and secure!) than betting on the stocks of unproven start-ups. At the same time, real estate investors may fall into speculative habits – habits that ultimately increase risk.

Have you ever watched a trapeze act? Performers dazzle crowds with their impressive aerial feats. They balance, swing, and fly through the air! These acts are entertaining no matter what, but some feel the need to up the ante by removing the safety net. The tension – and entertainment – comes from the knowledge that a single mistake could mean serious injury…even death!

Picking the right investment market can be tricky. There are tons of factors that contribute to an area’s potential…or downfall. Real estate investors know the power of location – but picking the right places to own property isn’t always easy. Sometimes, seemingly beneficial qualities, like rapid property appreciation, can backfire when the market becomes untenable to buyers and renters. 

Every investor benefits from the counsel of a financial advisor. Ideally, your advisor knows you, what you want and need, and the essential aspects of your investment strategies. Their perspective and know-how help construct effective action plans and mitigate risk along the way.

But advisors aren’t just there for big-picture talk. Before you move forward with a property acquisition, consult your advisor to ensure you’re making the best decisions possible for the health of your investment portfolio.

As a passive real estate investor, here are some key topics to cover:

What’s the best way to buy an investment property? Just as there are many investment strategies, various financing options are at your disposal, each with drawbacks and benefits. While we certainly have avenues we recommend more than others, every investor should be well-informed about every option.

Real estate investment is an enormously varied industry. Different types of properties, countless markets, real estate classes, and strategies are involved. On one hand, this is beneficial because just about anyone can find an approach that works with their financial goals. On the other hand, so much variety can be daunting!

Mortgage rates are the highest they’ve been since the Great Recession. Current 30-year fixed rates hover in the 6 to 7% range. Historically speaking, that’s nowhere near the highest they’ve been (that title belongs to the average in October of 1981 at a sickening 18.82%. Yikes!), but current rates are coming off all-time lows in 2020 and 2021. 

With home prices higher than ever, it is no surprise that homebuyers are waiting patiently for mortgage rates to come down and ease sticker shock. After all, the higher the asking price, the more the percentage matters.

But is it wise to wait for rates to drop?

We think not. As real estate investors, you risk more in the wait than in taking the chance in the market as it is. Here’s why:

When investing in real estate, some risks are obvious. Others? Less so. Effective risk management involves recognizing and mitigating all risks, from the common to the rare. Are the chances slim? Sure. But you’ll be kicking yourself if you don’t do your due diligence in handling these sneaky buy-and-hold real estate investing risks! 

Investors – ourselves included – often refer to “financial freedom.” While the concept itself sounds reasonably straightforward, it can mean many things to different people. These ideas lead to diverging goals and priorities. Ultimately, those points of divergence demand unique investment strategies. What you do hinges on where you want to be.