REAL ESTATE INVESTING WITHOUT DEBT – THE ALL-CASH PLAN
Real estate investing has been a popular way to build wealth for many years, but it also comes with its own set of risks. One of the biggest risks associated with real estate investing is taking on debt. However, there is an alternative strategy that can help investors minimize this risk: the all-cash plan. Want to buy or invest in real estate without making all the typical mistakes first-time owners make? You don’t have to go it alone, not with MY SMART COUSIN! As an experienced Real Estate Investment Coach, We’re here for new investors, and for Black and Brown folks and women, in particular. We’ll help you navigate from start to finish, and weigh the pros and cons of each option along your journey. Plus at a price that won’t break the bank when buying a house for the price of a car! In this blog, we will explore the benefits and drawbacks of the all-cash plan and how investors can make it work for them. THE ALL-CASH INVESTMENT APPROACH, IN A NUTSHELL The all-cash plan is a strategy where investors purchase real estate properties using cash rather than taking out a mortgage or other forms of debt. This approach eliminates the need to make monthly mortgage payments and eliminates the risk of foreclosure. Instead, investors can focus on generating rental income and appreciation. BENEFITS OF AN ALL-CASH PLAN DISADVANTAGES OF AN ALL-CASH PLAN, AND HOW TO OVERCOME THEM One of the biggest disadvantages of the all-cash plan is that it requires a significant amount of cash upfront. This can be a major barrier for many investors, especially those who are just starting out. And even if pooling a large of cash isn’t an obstacle, investors may be loathed to tie up their liquidity in an investment property, an asset that is inherently illiquid. However, there are several ways to overcome this obstacle. THE BOTTOM LINE In conclusion, the all-cash plan is a great strategy for real estate investors who want to edge out their competitors as well as forego obtaining a mortgage on a property. By purchasing properties using cash, investors can avoid the risk of foreclosure, take advantage of the benefits of rental income, and take advantage of the benefits of appreciation. However, the all-cash plan does require a significant amount of cash upfront, which can be a major barrier for many investors. But by investing with partners or a group of partners, investing in properties that are in need of repairs or renovations, or taking advantage of personal loan options, investors can overcome this obstacle and take advantage of the benefits of the all-cash plan. YOU CAN ALSO READ: HOW TO PREPARE FOR THE NEXT RECESSION AS A REAL ESTATE INVESTOR? FOLLOW US: @MYSMARTCOUSIN
HOW TO PREPARE FOR THE NEXT RECESSION AS A REAL ESTATE INVESTOR?
As a Real Estate investor, it’s important to always be aware of the market and the economy. While real estaste can be a profitable investment in good times, it can also be a risky one during a recession. However, by being prepared and taking the necessary steps, real estate investors can weather the storm and come out on top. At MY SMART COUSIN, we understand the challenges of finding, financing, and even refinancing a house for you and your family, or purchasing an investment property. We are an experienced Real Estate Investment coach who can help you weigh the pros and cons of various paths, and implement them with confidence. We specialize in helping new and aspiring real estate investors, particularly Black and Brown folks and women, buy and manage their first property, and buy a house for the price of a car. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some strategies for how to prepare for the next recession as a real estate investor. From diversifying your portfolio to maintaining a healthy cash reserve, we’ll cover everything you need to know to protect your investments and come out ahead during a downturn in the market. WHAT IS A RECESSION? A recession is a period of economic downturn characterized by a decline in the gross domestic product (GDP), high unemployment, and a decrease in consumer and business spending. In general, recessions are caused by a combination of factors, such as a decline in consumer confidence, a decrease in investment spending, and a tightening of credit. For real estate investors, a recession can have a significant impact on the market. During a recession, property values tend to decrease, making it more difficult to sell or rent properties. Additionally, the demand for rental properties may decrease, leading to a decrease in rental income. Foreclosures and short sales may increase, leading to a decrease in housing prices. It also becomes harder to secure a loan, as the lending standards become stricter. However, it’s important to note that not all real estate markets are affected equally during a recession. Some markets may experience a mild downturn, while others may be hit hard. Additionally, some properties may hold their value better than others. For example, properties in desirable locations, such as near transportation or in good school districts, are more likely to retain their value during a recession. WAYS TO PREPARE FOR THE NEXT RECESSION AS A REAL ESTATE INVESTOR A recession can have a significant impact on the real estate market, causing property values to decrease and making it more difficult to sell or rent properties. However, by taking the necessary steps, real estate investors can weather the storm and come out on top. The first step in preparing for a recession is to diversify your portfolio. This means investing in different types of properties, and in different markets. For example, instead of only investing in residential properties, consider investing in commercial properties as well. Additionally, it’s important to spread your investments across different regions, as economic changes tend to be local in nature rather than across the board. Doing so reduces the risk of losing all of your investments. Another important step is to maintain a healthy cash reserve. During a recession, it’s important to have enough cash on hand to cover expenses and unexpected costs. This will ensure that you’re able to hold onto your properties and continue to generate income from them, even if the market takes a downturn. Additionally, it’s a good idea to have a contingency plan in place, in case you need to sell or refinance a property. It’s also crucial to have a good understanding of the market and be able to read the signs of an impending recession. Keeping an eye on economic indicators, such as the unemployment rate, GDP, and interest rates, can give you an idea of what to expect in the future. Additionally, it’s important to stay informed about changes in the real estate market, such as a decrease in housing prices or an increase in foreclosures. One of the best ways to prepare for a recession as a real estate investor is to focus on creating long-term value. This means investing in properties that will be in demand, regardless of the market conditions. For example, properties in desirable locations, such as near transportation or in good school districts, are more likely to retain their value during a recession. Additionally, investing in properties that can be easily converted into rental properties can provide a steady income stream, even if the market takes a downturn. Another strategy is to focus on value-add properties. This means investing in properties that can be improved and then sold or rented at a higher price. For example, a property that needs some renovations or repairs can be purchased at a lower price, and then improvements can be made to increase the value of the property. This allows you to make a profit, even if the market is not on steady footing. Finally, it’s important to stay informed and stay in contact with other real estate investors. Joining a real estate investment group or attending real estate events can give you valuable insights and information about the market. Additionally, it’s important to have a network of professionals, such as real estate agents, property managers, and contractors, that you can rely on for advice and support. THE BOTTOM LINE In conclusion, a recession can be a challenging time for Real Estate investors, but it doesn’t have to be fatal to your investments. By diversifying your portfolio, maintaining a healthy cash reserve, understanding the market, creating long-term value, focusing on value-add properties, and staying informed and connected with other investors, you can weather the storm and come out on top. Stay vigilant and be proactive, and you can be sure that you’ll be able to navigate the next recession with ease. YOU CAN ALSO READ: MEDIUM TERM RENTALS 101- A DEEP DIVE ON THE HOTTEST STRATEGY FOR REAL ESTATE INVESTING FOLLOW US: @MYSMARTCOUSIN
MEDIUM TERM RENTALS 101- A DEEP DIVE ON THE HOTTEST STRATEGY FOR REAL ESTATE INVESTING
Medium-term rentals, also known as vacation rentals, have become a hot trend in the world of real estate investing. These rentals involve leasing a property for a period of time that is longer than a hotel stay, but shorter than a traditional long-term rental agreement. Investing in medium-term rentals can offer a number of benefits, such as higher occupancy rates, the potential for higher rental prices, and the ability to diversify an investment portfolio. Real Estate Investment is a great way to make money, but it requires knowledge and expertise. MY SMART COUSIN specializes in providing those who want Real-Estate Investing help with tailored solutions for every aspect of owning property, from buying a house for the price of a car, all the way through managing them once they’re yours! Whether you need our expert advice for future plans or an investment that’s in the works, we can help you develop and implement your strategy to optimize returns. In this blog, we will provide a deep dive into the world of medium-term rentals, covering everything from the basics to advanced strategies for success. So, if you’re interested in exploring this exciting area of real estate investing, keep reading! WHY INVEST IN MEDIUM-TERM RENTALS? There are several reasons why investing in medium-term rentals can be a lucrative strategy for real estate investors. Some of the main benefits include: HOW TO GET STARTED WITH MEDIUM-TERM RENTALS? If you are interested in investing in medium-term rentals, there are a few key steps you should follow to get started: ADVANCED STRATEGIES FOR SUCCESS WITH MEDIUM-TERM RENTALS Once you have a basic understanding of how to get started with medium-term rentals, there are several advanced strategies you can use to maximize your profits and enhance the odds of success for your investment. Some of these strategies include: By implementing these advanced strategies, you can increase the success of your medium-term rental investment and maximize your profits. FINAL THOUGHTS In conclusion, medium-term rentals, or vacation rentals, can be a lucrative strategy for real estate investing. These rentals offer the potential for higher occupancy rates, higher rental prices, and the ability to diversify an investment portfolio. To get started with medium-term rentals, it is important to research the market, determine your budget, find a property, and consider hiring a property management company. Advanced strategies, such as niche marketing, adding value through amenities, offering concierge services, utilizing dynamic pricing, and maximizing online visibility, can also help increase the success of your medium-term rental investment. With the right strategies and careful planning, medium-term rentals can be a rewarding and profitable area of Real Estate investing. YOU CAN ALSO READ: HOW SMALL REAL ESTATE INVESTORS CAN THRIVE IN THE AGE OF WALL STREET REAL ESTATE FOLLOW US: @MYSMARTCOUSIN
HOW TO BE AN EXPERT REAL ESTATE DEAL FINDER?
Real estate investing can be a great way to build wealth, but finding the right deals can be a challenge. It takes more than just luck to become an expert real estate deal finder. It requires knowledge, strategy, and determination. If you’re scratching your head on how to get started, My Smart Cousin has got you covered. We understand that everyone’s situation is different – which is why we provide customized advice for Real Estate Investors and Homebuyers, no matter your financial situation, and assist you in buying a house for the price of a car, our personal favorite way of investing! We are experienced Real Estate Investment Coaches and focus, in particular, on Black and Brown folks and women, helping this clientele and all clients implement strategies that are tailored specifically for them! In this blog, we’ll be sharing some tips and tricks on how to become an expert in finding the best real estate deals. From networking and building relationships to understanding the market, and being ready to act quickly when the opportunity arises. Whether you are a new or experienced investor, these tips will help you find the best deals and make your real estate investment journey a success. So, keep reading to find out how you can become an expert real estate deal finder. With the right knowledge and strategy, anyone can become an expert deal finder. Here are some tips on how to do just that. Networking is key in the real estate industry. The more people you know and the stronger your relationships with them, the more likely you are to find deals. Building relationships with other real estate professionals, such as agents, lenders, and other investors, can lead to inside information on properties that are about to hit the market or that are being sold off-market. Technology has made it easier than ever to find real estate deals. There are many online platforms and tools that can help you search for properties, such as Zillow and Redfin. These platforms not only give you access to a wide range of properties but also provide detailed information on each one, including price history, property taxes, property details, and similar properties. Don’t wait for deals to come to you, go out and find them. This means actively searching for properties that meet your location and price criteria and offer great upside after renovation. You can do this by driving through neighborhoods, talking to local real estate agents, and attending open houses. Distressed properties are properties that need significant repairs or are being sold by a motivated seller. These properties can often be purchased at a discount, and with a little bit of work, can be turned into profitable investments. Look for properties that are in foreclosure, short sale, or have been on the market for a long time. Knowing the real estate market and what’s going on in your area is essential to finding the best deals. This means keeping up with market trends, sales prices, inventory levels, community developments, and local economic conditions. This will help you identify opportunities and make informed decisions when it comes to buying and selling properties. Once you have found a potential deal, it’s important to act quickly. Real estate deals can disappear just as fast as they appear, and being ready to act when an opportunity arises can make the difference between getting a great deal or missing out. Always analyze a property before making an offer, it’s important to know the numbers behind the deal. This includes running the numbers to calculate the potential profit, as well as researching comparable properties and their prices. Don’t be afraid to walk away from a deal that doesn’t make financial sense. Be open to different types of properties and investment strategies. Single-family homes, multifamily properties, and commercial properties all have their own unique benefits and challenges. And also be open to different investment strategies such as fix and flip, buy and hold, or wholesale investing No one is perfect, everyone makes mistakes, and it’s an opportunity to learn from them. Reflect on your past deals, and what went well and what didn’t. Try to understand the reason behind your mistakes and put those lessons into practice in the future. The real estate industry is constantly changing, so it’s important to continuously educate yourself. Attend seminars, read books and articles— MySmartCousin.com offers a wealth of information— and network with other investors. The more knowledge you have, the better equipped you will be to find great deals. FINAL THOUGHTS In conclusion, finding the right real estate deals takes more than just luck, it takes knowledge, strategy, consistency, and determination. By following the tips and tricks outlined in this blog, you will be well on your way to becoming an expert real estate deal finder. Building relationships, using online tools, being proactive, and understanding the market, are all key ingredients for success in real estate investing. Remember, to always be ready to act quickly when the opportunity arises, analyze deals, and don’t be afraid to walk away from a deal that doesn’t make financial sense. Continuously educate yourself, reflect on your past deals, learn from your mistakes and keep refining your strategy. With a solid plan and a determined mindset, you’ll soon be closing on the deals of your dreams. YOU CAN ALSO READ: HOW SMALL REAL ESTATE INVESTORS CAN THRIVE IN THE AGE OF WALL STREET REAL ESTATE FOLLOW US: @MYSMARTCOUSIN
HOW SMALL REAL ESTATE INVESTORS CAN THRIVE IN THE AGE OF WALL STREET REAL ESTATE
YOU CAN ALSO READ: RENTAL PROPERTY CASH RESERVES: HOW MUCH IS ENOUGH? FOLLOW US: @MYSMARTCOUSIN
RENTAL PROPERTY CASH RESERVES: HOW MUCH IS ENOUGH?
Investing in rental property can be an incredibly profitable venture, but the road to success isn’t always smooth. One of the key elements of having a successful rental property is having the right amount of cash reserves to weather any storm that comes your way. Too many real estate investors and home buyers jump into their investments without taking Reserve Cash into account and end up stuck between a rock and hard place when unexpected costs arise. At MY SMART COUSIN, we understand the challenges of finding a house for you and your family or purchasing a long-distance rental property. As a Real Estate Investment coach we can help make that process less stressful and more efficient. We specialize in helping new and aspiring real estate investors, with a particular focus on Black and Brown folks and women, buy and manage their first property, and buy a house for the price of a car. So how much should you reserve for contingencies? It’s time to break down all topics related to Reserves Cash, so you’ll know exactly how much you need every step of the way! WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO HAVE CASH RESERVES FOR RENTAL PROPERTIES? Having a cash reserve set aside for your rental property is crucial for a number of reasons: · Unexpected expenses: No matter how well you maintain your property, unexpected expenses are always a possibility. This can include things like emergency repairs, legal fees, or other unexpected costs. Having a cash reserve can help you cover these expenses without having to dip into your personal savings or take on additional debt. · Financial stability: A cash reserve can also help ensure the financial stability of your rental property. For example, if you experience a period of vacancy, having a cash reserve can help you cover expenses until you’re able to find new tenants. · Investment opportunities: A cash reserve can also provide flexibility and allow you to take advantage of investment opportunities as they arise. For example, if you come across a good deal on a rental property, having a cash reserve can help you make the purchase without having to liquidate other assets or take on additional debt. HOW MUCH CASH RESERVE IS ENOUGH? The amount of cash reserve you need for your rental property will depend on a variety of factors, including: · Property type: The type of property you own can impact the amount of cash reserve you need. A single-family home, for instance, may require a smaller cash reserve compared to a larger multifamily property with multiple units. · Property location: The location of the property can also affect the amount of cash reserve you need. Properties in areas with higher costs of living or higher risks of natural disasters may require a larger cash reserve. · Rental income: The amount of rental income you receive can also impact the amount of cash reserve you need. If you have a higher rental income, you may be able to set aside a larger cash reserve. · Expenses: The expenses associated with your rental property will also impact the amount of cash reserve you need. This can include things like mortgage payments, insurance, taxes, and maintenance costs. · Personal financial situation: Your personal financial situation should also be taken into account when determining the right amount of cash reserve for your rental property. If you have other sources of income or savings, you may be able to set aside a smaller cash reserve. In general, it’s recommended to have a cash reserve equal to at least three to six months of expenses for your rental property. This will give you a cushion to cover unexpected expenses and maintain the financial stability of your investment. HOW TO BUILD A CASH RESERVE FOR YOUR RENTAL PROPERTY? There are several ways to build a cash reserve for your rental property, including: · Set aside a portion of your rental income: One of the easiest ways to build a cash reserve is to set aside a portion of your rental income each month. This can help you gradually build up your cash reserve over time. · Cut expenses: Review your expenses and see if there are any areas where you can cut costs. This can include things like negotiating lower rates with vendors or suppliers or finding ways to reduce energy costs. · Increase rental income: Another way to build a cash reserve is to increase your rental income. This could involve raising rental rates, finding ways to add value to your property, or finding new tenants to fill any vacancies. FINAL THOUGHTS Mulling over potential investments, it’s important to keep in mind that your rental property cash reserves are a key factor in weathering any bumps along the way. By having a solid understanding of both your monthly expenses and vacancy rates, you can ensure that you’ll have enough money set aside to cover these essential costs. With this peace of mind, you can then focus on creating a rental portfolio that generates positive cash flow and builds long-term wealth. Tell us about your journey starting and maintaining a cash reserve for your rental property! YOU CAN ALSO READ: LEARNING TO MANAGE THE CLOSING PROCESS FOR FLIPPING HOUSES SUCCESS FOLLOW US: @MYSMARTCOUSIN
RAISING CAPITAL FOR REAL ESTATE IN 6 STEPS
Do you dream of seeing your name on the deed of a new Real Estate property? Whether you’re ready to make an investment or just taking those first steps toward buying a home, having enough capital is critical. However, if budgeting hasn’t saved your finances from being tight, there are still ways for you to raise capital. And best of all – it can be quicker than you think! MY SMART COUSIN is here to help you with your Real Estate investment needs. Whether you’re looking for guidance on getting started in Real Estate investment and buying a house for the price of a car, or specific strategies suited to your particular life events, we’ve got you covered. As a Real estate Investment Coach, we are committed to helping all clients create financial security and wealth, especially Black and Brown folks and women. Here, we’ll discuss 6 simple steps that can help make your Real Estate dreams come true. So let’s get started and explore how raising capital for Real Estate works! WHAT DOES ‘RAISING CAPITAL’ FOR REAL ESTATE MEAN? Raising capital in Real Estate refers to the process of securing funding for Real Estate investments. This can involve acquiring financing through traditional means such as mortgage loans or private loans, or seeking investment from individuals or companies through crowdfunding platforms or other methods. The goal of raising capital in Real Estate is to secure the necessary funds to purchase and manage properties, with the intention of generating returns through rent, appreciation, or other means. Real Estate investors may seek to raise capital for a variety of reasons, including to acquire new properties, to renovate and improve existing properties, or to cover operating expenses and other costs associated with owning and managing real estate assets. THE IMPORTANCE OF RAISING CAPITAL IN REAL ESTATE The significance of raising capital in Real Estate lies in the fact that it is often necessary to secure outside financing in order to purchase and manage real estate properties. Real estate can be a significant investment, and without sufficient capital, it may not be possible to acquire and maintain properties. In addition, raising capital can allow real estate investors to take advantage of opportunities as they arise, such as purchasing distressed properties at a discounted price and flipping them for a profit. Raising capital can also allow Real Estate investors to diversify their portfolios and mitigate risk by spreading investments across multiple properties. This can be particularly important in the event that one property experiences a vacancy or unexpected expenses. Overall, raising capital is an essential part of successful real estate investing, as it enables investors to acquire and manage properties and pursue their investment goals. Here are the six most crucial steps for raising capital in Real Estate Before you start trying to raise capital, it’s important to have a clear idea of what you want to achieve with your real estate investments. Do you want to flip houses, build a rental portfolio, or do something else? Once you have a clear goal in mind, create a plan outlining how you will achieve it. This plan should include the types of properties you will target, your target market, and your projected returns. Once you have a plan in place, it’s important to determine how much capital you will need to achieve your investment goals. This will involve calculating the cost of acquiring and rehabilitating properties, as well as the ongoing costs of owning and managing them. Be sure to include a cushion for unexpected expenses as well. There are a variety of ways to finance real estate investments, including traditional mortgage loans, private loans, and crowdfunding platforms. Each option has its own set of pros and cons, so it’s important to carefully consider which option is best for your specific needs and goals. In order to raise capital, you will need to tap into your network of contacts. This could include family, friends, business associates, and professional connections. It’s also a good idea to join local real estate investment groups and attend industry events to meet potential investors and lenders. Once you have identified potential investors, it’s time to make your pitch. This will involve presenting your investment opportunity in a clear and compelling way, highlighting the potential returns, and minimizing the risks. Be prepared to answer questions and provide financial projections and other supporting materials. If you are successful in convincing an investor to fund your real estate investment, the final step is to close the deal. This will involve negotiating and finalizing the terms of the investment, including the amount of capital being invested, the expected return on investment, and any other terms and conditions. Once the deal is closed, it’s important to continue to communicate with your investors and provide regular updates on the progress of your investment. WRAPPING IT ALL UP In conclusion, raising capital for real estate investments is a crucial step in building a successful portfolio. By defining your investment goals, determining how much capital you need, considering your financing options, building your network, pitching your investment opportunity, and closing the deal, you can successfully secure the funding you need to achieve your goals. While the process can be challenging, it is well worth the effort for the potential returns and long-term financial success it can bring. YOU CAN ALSO READ: WHEN THE HOUSING MARKET REBOUNDS, SHOULD YOUR REAL ESTATE INVESTING STRATEGY CHANGE? FOLLOW US: @MYSMARTCOUSIN
WHEN THE HOUSING MARKET REBOUNDS, SHOULD YOUR REAL ESTATE INVESTING STRATEGY CHANGE?
The housing market can fluctuate for a variety of reasons, including economic conditions, population growth, and changes in interest rates. Real Estate Investment can be a great investment in a volatile market, but it requires knowledge and expertise. MY SMART COUSIN specializes in providing those venturing into Real-Estate Investing with tailored solutions for every aspect of owning property, from buying a house for the price of a car, all the way through managing them once they’re yours! Whether you need our expert advice for future plans or an investment that’s in the works, we can help you develop and implement your strategy to optimize returns. HOUSING REBOUNDS – WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR REAL ESTATE INVESTORS As the housing market begins to thaw post-COVID-19, real estate investors may be wondering what this means for their investments. Here are a few key things to consider: Increased demand: One of the main benefits of a housing market rebound is that it typically leads to increased demand for housing. This can be especially true in areas where the pandemic has led to a slowdown in housing activity. As more people start to look for homes, this can lead to increased competition for properties and potentially higher prices. Increased supply: With a rebounding housing market, it’s likely that there will be an increase in the supply of properties. This could be due to a number of factors, including homeowners who were previously unable to sell finally putting their homes on the market, or builders who were unable to start new construction projects due to lockdowns starting work again. While an increase in supply may lead to more competition for investors, it can also provide more opportunities to find good deals. Higher prices: A strengthening housing market often leads to rising home prices triggered by increased demand, a decrease in the supply of available homes, or a combination of both. While higher prices can be good news for homeowners and sellers, they may be less appealing for buyers and investors looking to enter the market. Increased financing options: As the housing market rebounds, it’s likely that lenders will become more willing to lend to buyers and investors. This could lead to an increase in financing options, including lower interest rates and more flexible terms. While this can be good news for buyers and investors, it’s important to carefully consider the terms and conditions of any financing options and make sure that they are a good fit for your needs. DEFINING YOUR REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT STRATEGY IN A REBOUNDING MARKET When the housing market rebounds, it may be a good opportunity for real estate investors to reassess their investment strategy. Here are a few factors to consider when evaluating whether your real estate investing strategy should change. Current Market Conditions: One of the first things to consider is current market conditions. This includes factors such as the overall strength of the economy, the demand for housing in different areas, and the availability of financing. By understanding the current market conditions, you can better determine what types of properties and investments are likely to be most successful. Your Long-Term Goals Another important factor to consider when deciding if your real estate investing strategy should change is your long-term goals. Are you looking to build a long-term portfolio of rental properties, or are you more interested in flipping houses for short-term profits? Your long-term goals will help guide your investment strategy and determine what types of properties and investments make the most sense for you. Your Risk Tolerance Real estate investing involves some level of risk, and it’s important to understand your own risk tolerance when deciding if your investing strategy should change. Are you comfortable taking on more risk in order to potentially earn higher returns, or do you prefer to play it safe and focus on more stable investments? Your risk tolerance will help guide your investment decisions and determine what types of properties and investments are most appropriate for you. Your Current Portfolio Another factor to consider is your current portfolio. Do you have a diverse mix of properties and investments, or are you heavily concentrated in a particular market or asset class? By evaluating your current portfolio, you can identify any potential vulnerabilities or areas where you may be over-exposed, and adjust your strategy accordingly. Your Financial Resources Finally, it’s important to consider your financial resources when deciding if your real estate investing strategy should change. Do you have the financial resources to take on more risk and potentially earn higher returns, or do you need to focus on more stable investments? Your financial resources will help guide your investment decisions and determine what types of properties and investments are most appropriate for you. FINAL THOUGHTS Overall, the decision to change your Real Estate investment strategy will depend on a number of factors, including current market conditions, your long-term goals, your risk tolerance, your current portfolio, and your financial resources. By carefully considering these factors, you can determine what types of properties and investments are most likely to be successful in the current market, and adjust your strategy accordingly. YOU CAN ALSO READ: CONDO VS. TOWNHOUSE: WHICH IS THE BETTER INVESTMENT? FOLLOW US: @MYSMARTCOUSIN
WHERE TO FIND DEPOSIT FUNDING FOR REAL ESTATE INVESTING?
Have you ever thought of investing in Real Estate, but felt unsure about where to find the necessary funding? Well, never fear; there are many options for getting a down payment for your Real Estate investments. Whether it’s access to traditional banking or nontraditional sources like peer-to-peer lenders and crowdfunding platforms, accessing this kind of investment capital doesn’t have to be difficult. If you’re scratching your head on how to get started, My Smart Cousin has got you covered. We understand that everyone’s situation is different – which is why we provide customized advice for Real Estate Investors and Homebuyers, no matter your financial situation, and assist you in buying a house for the price of a car, our personal favorite way of investing! We are experienced Real Estate Investment Coaches and focus, in particular, on Black and Brown folks and women, helping this clientele and all clients implement strategies that are tailored specifically for them. In this blog post, we cover some ways you can get started securing that all-important down payment – from saving over time to creative financing solutions. Read on for a comprehensive overview of how best to finance your dream investment purchase. WHAT IS A DEPOSIT, AND WHY DO YOU NEED ONE FOR REAL ESTATE INVESTING? A deposit is a sum of money that is used as a down payment when purchasing a property. A deposit is typically required as a way to demonstrate to the seller that the buyer is serious about the purchase, and has the financial means to follow through with the transaction. There are a few reasons why a deposit is typically required to purchase a home, be it an investment property or a primary residence:
RECAST MORTGAGE: WHAT IS IT AND HOW DO YOU CALCULATE IT?
Are you a Real Estate Investor or home buyer looking for ways to save money on your mortgage? If so, you may be interested in learning about the concept of recasting mortgages. Recasting mortgages is a strategic mortgage repayment method that enables borrowers to reduce their monthly payments by paying down part of the principal balance – without having to refinance their loan. At MY SMART COUSIN, we understand the challenges of finding, financing, and even refinancing a house for you and your family, or purchasing an investment. We are an experienced Real Estate Investment coach who can help you weigh the pros and cons of various paths, and implement them with confidence. We specialize in helping new and aspiring real estate investors, particularly Black and Brown folks and women, buy and manage their first property, and buy a house for the price of a car. In this blog post, we’ll dive deep into what’s involved with recasting mortgages and how you can potentially benefit from them. We’ll also look into how to calculate a recast and explore some important pros and cons of this financing option. So if you’re tuned in and ready to learn more, let’s get started! WHAT IS A RECAST MORTGAGE AND HOW DOES IT WORK? The idea of a Recast Mortgage is pretty straightforward: you pay more toward the balance on your remaining loan payments, which reduces the principal. Now here’s where it gets interesting – that reduction means your monthly payment amount will go down. Generally, in order to benefit from a recast mortgage, you have to make a lump sum payment of anywhere from $5,000 to $20,000 or more, depending on the size of your loan. You must also be up‐to‐date with all regular payments, or the lender won’t consider recasting. However, if this is something you can do, then in no time you could potentially lower your interest rate and start seeing some real savings. Plus, this process allows you to keep the same terms of your existing loan so that any additional tax breaks due from it still apply. It really can’t get much better than that! HOW TO CALCULATE A RECAST MORTGAGE? Even if you’ve never heard of a recast mortgage, you may want to consider learning how to calculate one. With a recast mortgage, you can refinance your loan without actually refinancing–meaning you don’t have to go through the same lengthy process to get better terms on your loan. Calculating your recast mortgage repayment is simple. All you need to know is your existing balance and the principal amount of your extra payment. Then, subtract the extra payment from the existing balance and use that as the new balance for terms that better suit your needs. It’s an easy, stress-free way to get more out of your mortgage! THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE OPTING FOR A RECAST MORTGAGE Before you consider recasting your mortgage, there are some important points to keep in mind. While it can provide lower payments and more financial flexibility over the long haul, it’s not a decision to be taken lightly. · First, talk with your lender as they may have their own specific requirements that need to be fulfilled before they agree to recast your mortgage. · You’ll also want to make sure you understand any fees associated with the process, as these often can add up quickly. · Finally, if you’re considering taking out extra money or increasing the size of your loan when you recast, be aware that this may put added strain on the rest of your finances. Evaluate your budget and the source of funds you will use to make the down payment, and e sure that you will still have access to emergency funds should an emergency occur. Overall, if done correctly, recasting could potentially prove to be an invaluable resource for those who find their current mortgage payments too high and are looking for relief. PROS AND CONS OF RECASTING YOUR MORTGAGE Recasting your mortgage can be a good idea if you have some extra cash to dedicate towards your monthly payments, as it can significantly reduce the time until what really is a generation-long loan— 30 years— is paid off. It may also lower the amount of interest that will accumulate given the shorter tenor, and save you some money in the long run. However, it’s important to look out for fees such as closing costs, as they may counteract any potential savings. Additionally, recasting isn’t available with all lending institutions, so it’s important to do your research and check what your current lender offers. If done correctly, recasting can be a great way to pay off your mortgage sooner than expected, with no refinancing or requalification processes. WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO RECAST YOUR MORTGAGE Trying to figure out when the best time is to recast your mortgage can be daunting, however, it can be a great way to save tens of thousands of dollars in interest over the life of a loan. Before considering recasting, it’s important to look at ways to lower your existing mortgage payments without increasing your loan amount or term. Paying off any credit cards that have higher interest rates first should be prioritized as this could help reduce monthly payments more than a mortgage recast would. Said another way, the cost of money with a credit card is 25% or even more, versus the cost of money with a mortgage at 7% to 8%. If you have a large credit card balance, say $10,000 or more, and are making minimum monthly payments, you are better served to pay off your credit card debt rather than recasting your mortgage. In terms of timing, experts often urge homeowners in a strong financial position to look into recasting after 12 months or more post the closing of their home, when they are more likely to have some extra cash saved up to cover the costs. Depending on lender policies, there may