BUYING PROPERTY AS
AN INVESTMENT
Investors
in property range from serious full time professionals, to those
diversifying
their portfolio to individuals, making once off second property
purchases. The
largest property investors of course are the large corporates who
manage listed
property companies and property unit trusts. The smallest of course is
the general homeowner who owns their own home - this is indeed an
investment.
Over
recent years, there has been a remarkable growth in smaller investors
who have
begun to realise what the big boys have known for years – with the
right buying
decisions, property will beat most other investments with good and
sometimes
phenomenal returns. They are replacing traditional endowment and other
policies
with property investment as part of their retirement planning.
As opposed
to stock market investment, which is based essentially on emotion and
opinion,
property investment is based on real tangible value – which will
constantly
rise.
Most
things in life are better if you take the time to plan and prepare for
them. It shows responsibility, forethought, consideration,
anticipation –
a common success factor in many areas. Investing in property is
no
different, yet we often see regular investors burn their fingers when
they have
failed to consider the basics before purchasing a property.
GENERAL
PRINCIPLES
- Most
people choose residential property investment ahead of other kinds of
property
because they are familiar with it and feel comfortable investing in it.
It is
important to stay reasonably within your field of knowledge. However,
it may
also be worthwhile considering a commercial or industrial property
investment.
This is a specialist area and advice should be sought from a specialist
commercial agent. For more on Commercial investment go here.
- Give
yourself some time to watch market cycles and movements in property
values before
putting yourself in the hands of the experts. Take your time is
discussing
issues with your agent. Beware of property investors drawing you into
their own
schemes – they have a vested and therefore biased interest.
- Classic
style properties of quality construction generally hold their appeal
longer.
Also important is to consider smaller issues such as properties with
security
features such as door and window screens, alarms. Double garages are
very
popular
- An
investment property has noting to do with what you want and everything
to do
with what clients want. You DO NOT invest in a property because you
like it but
because it will offer a return. Find out what properties are most
popular and
have the most seekers. Avoid specialist properties and top end of the
arket
where renters are few. You want to be able to replace your tenant
easily.
- While the
aesthetic appeal of a home can affect the rental value and vacancy
rate, the
location of the property will also affect its profitability. Homes
close to
schools, shopping centres, and public transport, or located in
fashionable
suburbs, tend to be more desirable and may command higher rents. Tenant
are not
investing – they are looking for comfortable living and
convenience.
- Focus on
areas with a good track record of capital growth. Capital growth tends
to run
hand in hand with good infrastructure. Look for streetscapes that are
architecturally
consistent rather than a mix ‘n’
match of styles.
- Consider
unique specs relevant to a particular area you are looking to invest
in. For
instance, off-street car parking is a bonus, particularly in inner city
areas.
High security measures in higher crime areas
- Look
to fresh approaches such as buying development land jointly with others
- each has a small investment and when the time comes (patience is key)
tidy profits can be made.
Relevant
Articles
Property
Investment Advice from Professionals
Key
Considerations in Investing
Investing
in Commercial Property
Rental vs
Buying
Professional
Property Management
Back to the Buyer Advice Centre Here
Read the article on Why to
use a Buying Agent
Meet our
agents Here
View some Client References