ARE APARTMENTS A GOOD INVESTMENT? SHAWN BODAY
Apartments have been a fairly good investment for the better part of a decade. That is still the case. Other options may have become more tempting over the past few years, but there are fairly fundamental economic trends that ensure apartments remain a good choice for many investors.
THE BIG PICTURE
Humans need homes to stay safe, healthy, and comfortable. That is a fundamental fact of life, and no amount of technology or economic development is going to change that. Apartments are an affordable way for many people to get a home, and the relatively flexible nature of renting appeals to people who aren’t quite ready to settle down. That means that there will always be plenty of demand for apartments. The precise level of demand can fluctuate over time, but there will always be some. Of course, some investments are better than others. Those who take the time and put in the effort to get the most out of their properties will generally see a much bigger return on their investment than those who do not.
FIND WAYS TO ADD VALUE Increasing the value of a property is a key part of getting a good return on a real estate investment in the modern market. Most investors will want to consider paying to add amenities that appeal to renters in their area so they can command higher prices and attract more residents. Lowering operational and maintenance costs, or even looking for tax incentives can also be very effective ways to get a better return.
CHOOSE LOCATIONS CAREFULLY It is always best to look for areas with a steady demand for housing before investing in apartments. In general, renters are looking for places with easy access to amenities and jobs. As with all investments, the price is also a factor. Examining local trends is a key part of determining the value of an investment.
DO THE RESEARCH Apartments are still a fairly good investment, especially for people who understand how to get the most out of them, but the golden rule of investing still applies: Do the research. Every region’s market is unique, looking at all of the options and honestly assessing them is vital for success. Investors who do their research and pick their investments carefully are the most likely to find success with apartments.