Using Homeownership As an Investment

4.6.2023 | Category: Article

Investing in real estate is a tried and true way to build wealth over time. One of the most popular ways to invest in real estate is to purchase an investment property. 

An investment property is a property that is purchased with the intention of generating income or appreciation, rather than for personal use. There are numerous benefits to buying an investment property, and in this article, we will explore some of the most compelling reasons to do so.

Potential for income 

One of the most obvious benefits of buying an investment property is the potential for income. If you purchase a rental property, you can collect rent from tenants on a monthly basis. This can provide a steady stream of income that can help you build wealth over time.

With this type of real estate investment, you will need to know whether you prefer long term or short term tenants. You will also need to consider overhead costs such as maintenance, cleaning services, and property management. 

Appreciation 

Real estate is a long-term investment, and over time, property values tend to appreciate. This means that the value of your investment property may increase over time, providing you with a return on your investment. If you purchase a property in an up-and-coming area, you may see even greater appreciation in value as the area becomes more desirable.

In addition, by purchasing a home and making payments toward the mortgage, you are paying toward building equity into your home, rather than paying a landlord. This can help keep your payments steady and your budget predictable, allowing you to save and invest your income wisely. 

Tax benefits 

There are numerous tax benefits associated with owning an investment property. For example, you can deduct mortgage interest, property taxes, and other expenses related to the property from your taxable income. 

In addition, if you sell the property after owning it for more than a year, you may qualify for long-term capital gains tax rates, which are typically lower than short-term capital gains tax rates.

Diversification 

Investing in real estate can be a great way to diversify your investment portfolio. If you currently have most of your investments in stocks or other financial instruments, adding an investment property to your portfolio can provide a degree of diversification that can help reduce risk.

Before divesting any stocks or bonds to pay for an investment property, be sure to talk to you in a financial advisor to make sure the decision meets your expectations.

Control 

When you own an investment property, you have a degree of control over your investment. You can choose the property, the tenants, the rent amount, and the maintenance schedule. This can provide a sense of security and control that you may not get from other types of investments. It can also inspire a great sense of pride and putting hard work into the investment property that you maintain. 

Inflation hedge 

Real estate can be a good hedge against inflation. As prices rise over time, the value of your investment property is likely to increase as well. 

In addition, if you have a fixed-rate mortgage, your mortgage payments will stay the same over time, while rental rates may increase, providing you with additional income.

Buying an investment property can be a great way to build wealth over time. It provides the potential for income, appreciation, tax benefits, diversification, control, and an inflation hedge. 

Of course, investing in real estate comes with risks, and it's important to do your due diligence before making any investment. But if you're willing to put in the work and manage the risks, investing in an investment property can be a smart financial decision.

*Please be sure to consult with your tax advisor