by Shawn Boday | Dec 28, 2023 | Housing Market, Real Estate, Real Estate Investing, Shawn Boday
The pulse of the global real estate market is beating with significant shifts, creating both challenges and opportunities for investors worldwide. In the United States, the landscape has seen a notable dip in transaction volumes amid a substantial rise in interest rates, leading to a gap in prices between buyers and sellers. The doubling of the risk-free rate has left the transaction pipeline about 60% below the recent average.
However, this scenario has not spelled doom for the real estate sector. Despite the shockwaves, there are silver linings. The higher rates have spurred stability, with U.S. Treasuries hovering around 4%, aligning more closely with the long-term average. Interestingly, the rise in rates has led to a cooling effect on the cost of materials and labor, fostering a positive environment for development and redevelopment activities.
Turning our gaze to Europe, the market has experienced a slump in property transaction volumes in 2023, attributed to the rate shock. Yet, there is optimism for a revival in 2024, as the specter of returning to 2021 rate levels diminishes. European real estate valuations have adjusted swiftly, particularly in the aftermath of geopolitical tensions, with a nearly 15% decline.
In Australia, a slower adjustment of valuations is noted, and the market is in the throes of a downward shift, likely to continue in the next six months. The resilience of investors to sell below book value is creating a scenario where falling valuations may exert pressure on debt covenants, stimulating more transaction activity and narrowing the gap between buyers and sellers.
In the United States, a similar scenario is envisaged, with expectations of further corrections in valuations. However, a noteworthy point is the anticipated greater differentiation in outcomes, creating a ‘stock picker’s market’ where the quality of assets and the expertise of the team play pivotal roles in performance.
The real estate debt market is emerging as a favorable avenue, particularly in the U.S. and Europe. Traditional lenders have scaled back, providing opportunities for non-traditional lenders to fill the void. The combination of a dearth of capital and increased base rates has enhanced the risk-return profile for real estate debt, especially in areas like construction lending.
On the equity front, challenges persist in the higher-rate environment, but strategic opportunities abound. In Australia, a focus on residential assets supported by structural themes appears promising. In the U.S., the theme of housing affordability is taking center stage, with a rising population of renters creating opportunities in various residential sectors.
Despite the opportunities, risks loom on the horizon. Inflated costs, particularly in development activities, present a significant challenge. Refinancing risks, geopolitical uncertainties, and the specter of legislative changes add further layers of complexity.
As we navigate the global real estate terrain, it is crucial to stay attuned to these shifts and leverage the emerging opportunities. The coming years hold the promise of compelling investment prospects, underlining the resilience and adaptability of the real estate market on an international scale.
by Shawn Boday | Oct 9, 2023 | Real Estate, Real Estate Investing, Real Estate Tips, Shawn Boday
Real estate investment, particularly in the context of retirement planning, can prove to be a strategic financial move. Diversifying one’s investment portfolio with real estate assets, including residential and commercial properties, can lay a foundation for a secure financial future during retirement.
One of the prominent benefits of real estate investment in retirement planning is the potential for generating a consistent income. Rental properties, for example, can provide a steady cash flow through monthly rental payments from tenants. This predictable income stream can help meet living expenses during retirement and offer financial security.
Property appreciation is another significant advantage associated with real estate investment. Over time, the value of a property tends to increase, potentially leading to substantial capital gains. This appreciation can result from a variety of factors, such as location, improvements made to the property, and overall market conditions. When strategically timed, property sales can unlock substantial profits to bolster retirement savings.
Real estate investments also offer a hedge against inflation. Historically, property values and rental incomes tend to rise with the general increase in prices. Real estate assets, in this regard, can act as a safeguard against the eroding purchasing power of money, ensuring a sustained and comfortable lifestyle during retirement.
Leverage is a strategic tool in real estate investing. By utilizing financing options like mortgages, investors can control a substantial asset with a relatively small initial investment. Rental income can be employed to cover mortgage payments while simultaneously building equity in the property.
Nonetheless, prudent decision-making is vital in real estate investing. A thorough assessment of potential risks and rewards, market trends, property condition, and location is essential. Engaging professional advice from real estate advisors or brokers can assist in making informed investment choices.
Additionally, diversification within real estate investments is crucial. Allocating investments across different types of properties and geographic locations can mitigate risks and enhance the overall stability of the investment portfolio.
Real estate investment, when integrated into retirement planning, provides an avenue for a secure financial future. This can be achieved through reliable rental income, property appreciation, inflation resilience, and strategic leveraging. However, careful evaluation and diversification within the realm of real estate investments are paramount for a successful and secure retirement strategy.
by Shawn Boday | Oct 9, 2023 | Housing Market, Real Estate, Shawn Boday
The real estate market, like many other economic sectors, operates in cycles characterized by periods of growth and decline. These cycles, often referred to as market cycles, play a significant role in shaping investment strategies and outcomes in the real estate industry. Understanding the dynamics of these market cycles is crucial for real estate investors aiming to navigate the market effectively and make informed decisions.
1. Expansion Phase:
The real estate market cycle begins with an expansion phase. During this phase, various economic and demographic factors contribute to an increase in demand for real estate properties. Key factors such as population growth, low interest rates, and a thriving economy stimulate this demand. This heightened demand leads to rising property values and an upswing in property development. Investors observe potential opportunities during this phase and actively engage in property acquisitions and investments.
2. Peak Phase:
Following the expansion phase, the market reaches its peak. Property values are at their highest during this period. The demand for real estate continues to be strong, attracting investors seeking to capitalize on the rising prices. However, it is essential to recognize that this high demand is unsustainable in the long term. Economic indicators may signal the approaching shift towards the next phase.
3. Contraction Phase:
As the market approaches the peak phase, it gradually enters a contraction phase. Factors such as increased interest rates and market saturation contribute to a decline in demand for real estate. Property values stabilize or experience a slight decrease. This phase can pose challenges for speculative investors who may find it difficult to sell properties at the peak prices they had anticipated.
4. Trough Phase:
The trough phase follows the contraction phase and represents the lowest point in the market cycle. Demand remains subdued, leading to further declines in property prices. This phase presents opportunities for strategic investors who are keen on acquiring properties at lower prices, anticipating the subsequent expansion phase.
Understanding and predicting these market cycles is paramount for real estate investors. The timing of property acquisition in the cycle can significantly impact investment returns. Buying at the peak might lead to financial challenges, while strategic acquisitions during the trough can result in substantial returns when the market rebounds.
Factors such as interest rates, economic trends, and government policies play significant roles in influencing market cycles. Investors must stay well-informed about these factors to make informed investment decisions. Strategies like diversification, comprehensive market analysis, and adopting a long-term investment approach can help mitigate risks associated with market volatility.
Comprehending the dynamics of real estate market cycles is fundamental for success in real estate investment. Investors need to remain attuned to economic shifts and market trends to make sound decisions throughout the different phases of the market cycle. By doing so, they can optimize their investments and navigate the real estate market with confidence.
by Shawn Boday | Aug 9, 2023 | Housing Market, Real Estate, Real Estate Tips, Shawn Boday
As we dive into the third quarter of 2023, it’s a perfect moment to reflect on the housing market’s journey so far this year and project what lies ahead. The real estate landscape has been marked by some notable shifts, and understanding these trends can help both homebuyers and sellers make informed decisions in the coming months.
The second quarter of the year saw a significant rise in mortgage interest rates. Starting at 6.32 percent in early April, the average 30-year mortgage loan rate climbed to 6.84 percent by late June. Alongside this, the national median home price rose from $375,400 in March to $396,100 by May. These changes in rates and prices have set the stage for an intriguing Q3.
Experts are cautiously optimistic about the upcoming quarter. Despite traditionally buoyant summer months for real estate, Q2’s elevated rates led to a somewhat subdued environment. The ongoing challenge remains a severe shortage of housing inventory, with new listings for sale hovering around 25-30 percent below last year’s levels. This scarcity of homes, coupled with higher mortgage rates, suggests that the third quarter of 2023 might not witness robust home-buying activity.
Mortgage interest rates, a pivotal factor, are projected to remain within the 6.4 to 6.7 percent range for a 30-year fixed mortgage, according to financial analysts. While recent data suggests that inflation may ease in the coming months, leading to a potential drop in mortgage rates, the predictions vary. Some experts believe rates could even dip below 6.5 percent, while others expect them to hover around 6.75 percent initially and eventually decline toward 6.0 percent by September.
The lack of housing inventory will continue to exert pressure on home prices throughout Q3. Buyers may encounter fierce competition, with a higher percentage of homes selling above the asking price. While home price growth is predicted to average around 4 percent this year, median home prices are anticipated to slightly decrease, settling around $385,000 in Q3.
For potential homebuyers, the current market presents affordability challenges. High home prices combined with elevated mortgage rates mean careful consideration is essential before making a purchase. Experts advise potential buyers to ensure job stability and steady earnings before committing to a home transaction.
On the flip side, sellers continue to have the upper hand in many markets due to tight inventory levels. However, sellers should weigh the benefits of selling against the potential challenge of finding a new home in a market with elevated rates. The decision to sell should take into account the balance between current low mortgage rates and potentially higher ones in the future.
The real estate market in the third quarter of 2023 promises a mix of challenges and opportunities. While the housing shortage and increased mortgage rates pose hurdles, the potential for stabilized or slightly reduced home prices may provide some respite for both buyers and sellers. As you navigate this complex landscape, remember that careful consideration and expert guidance are essential to make the right decisions for your unique circumstances.
by Shawn Boday | Feb 7, 2023 | Real Estate, Shawn Boday
If you’re looking for a great deal in a tough real estate market, buying a foreclosed home may be the best option. While the main benefit of purchasing a foreclosure property is the price, the process is more complex than with a traditional real estate listing. It’s important to know what to look for and how to buy a foreclosed home if you want to get the best deal. Here are five tips to keep in mind when buying a foreclosed home.
It is often difficult to access these properties before they become available for sale.
Many people think there must be a secret way to get access to foreclosed properties before they go on the market, but the reality is that most of these properties are owned by large financial institutions that have a lot of other assets. These companies tend to outsource the entire foreclosure process to a management company, which includes hiring a local Realtor to evaluate the property before it is listed. Local banks may be able to provide information on who’s handling the foreclosed property, but this is the exception rather than the rule. So this means it can be difficult to access these properties before they become available to the public.
Make sure that you are actually getting a good deal.
When it comes to buying a foreclosure, it’s important to ensure that you’re actually getting a good deal. Contrary to popular belief, foreclosures are not always the best buy. In fact, most foreclosures are listed on the open market, meaning that the visibility and demand for them are the same as you would expect with other properties. The price of foreclosures is set at the highest possible value in order to meet the needs of the bank and the listing agent. Therefore, it’s important to remember that foreclosures are not being offered at discounted prices.
Conduct a full property inspection, including all utilities.
Before you purchase a foreclosure property, you should get a full inspection done with the utilities turned on. Make sure the house has been winterized, and you can access the furnace if necessary. Be aware that you may need to purchase special access to get the utilities going, which can be costly and time-consuming.
Prepare for the worst if purchasing a home as-is.
If you’re buying a foreclosure in “as-is” condition, you should prepare for the worst. Although no inspection is required, it’s a good idea to have a contractor evaluate the home and estimate the cost of any repairs. An inspection can identify major issues that the bank isn’t aware of, so it’s worth considering. This will help you decide whether you want to proceed with the purchase or walk away from the deal. To make sure you have room to cover repairs and other costs, look for a foreclosure home within the lower end of your budget.
Get a preapproval letter.
If you’re thinking about making an offer on a foreclosure, it’s important to have a mortgage preapproval letter in hand. This letter will outline information about the amount you are able to borrow based on your credit score and income. With foreclosures, the best deals often go quickly, and buyers need to have their financing worked out beforehand. Real estate investors who pay cash are usually the ones to take advantage of these deals.
