Do you REALLY need Real Estate in your investment portfolio? If you do, what percentage of your portfolio should it cover? Let's find out.
Navigating investments at any stage in life can be complex, but the stakes become even higher as retirement approaches. During retirement, the main goal is to minimize risk, generate income, and protect your assets from inflation. So, is real estate a good option for retirement?
The answer is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It depends on various factors unique to your situation. In this blog, we will explore real estate investments for retirees and how you can make informed decisions that align with your goals and needs. Here's what you should know.
What are Real Estate Investments?
While many people own the home they live in, generally, that’s not considered a real estate investment. Adding real estate to your portfolio can add diversity and growth to your portfolio without adding significant risk (though, like with all investments, risk is always a factor to consider).
Real estate investments are either active or passive. Active ones, like house flipping or managing rentals, demand your time, effort, and often more money. They can earn more but come with higher risks. Passive ones, like investing in REITs or real estate funds, don't need you to manage properties and are less hands-on with a smaller initial investment.
The Benefits of Real Estate Investments
Real estate has been a popular form of investment for decades. Whether buying, owning, or managing real estate properties, you can generate income, capital appreciation, or both. Unlike other investment options, real estate often provides a steady and predictable cash flow, making it an attractive choice for individuals searching for a stable income stream.
Even though mortgage rates nationwide have recently become more affordable, as of January 2023, home prices in the United States dropped for the seventh consecutive month. As a result, sellers are finding themselves in a situation where they are more willing to accommodate their buyers' requests, which can lead to some excellent deals for buyers.
Looking back at historical trends, real estate has consistently demonstrated an inclination to increase in value over time. Although short-term fluctuations may occur, well-located properties tend to see their worth rise over the years, giving investors the opportunity for significant capital gains when they eventually decide to sell.
In addition to these benefits, real estate investments offer valuable tax advantages. These tax benefits can substantially reduce your overall tax liability, further enhancing the financial attractiveness of real estate investments. Now that we have explored the benefits of direct real estate investments, let's dive into Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs).
To sum up, the reasons why so many investors choose Real Estate in their portfolio include:
- Steady cash flow. When you invest in places like homes or certain real estate groups, you get a regular paycheck from tenants.
- Mixing it up. If you already have money in things like stocks or bonds, adding real estate is like adding a different flavor to your money mix. It doesn't move in the same way as the others.
- Tax perks. If you own a rental place, there are some cool tax benefits. For instance, the value drop of the house over time can reduce your tax bill. Some can even use losses from their property to lower their regular taxes.
- It's real and useful. Unlike some investments that are just numbers on a screen, real estate is a real thing. Even if its price goes down, someone can still live in it and pay rent.
Consider Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) for Your Portfolio
Real estate investment trusts (REITs) offer a unique way for investors to join forces and invest in properties collectively. Think of it as a mutual fund, but it focuses on real estate instead of stocks.
For seasoned investors, REITs can be a valuable addition to their portfolio. However, if you're starting your investment journey, it's prudent to concentrate on wealth accumulation before diving into REITs. While dependable REITs are in the market, others rely heavily on debt to acquire properties, elevating the investment risk.
Before venturing into REITs, it's essential to consult with an investment professional, like a Fiduciary Advisor. They can help you evaluate potential risks and ascertain whether REITs align with your financial objectives and overall investment strategy.
Understanding Risks in Real Estate
While real estate investments offer numerous advantages, they have their fair share of risks and challenges. Here are some key considerations:
- Market Volatility: The real estate market can be quite unpredictable, with property values susceptible to fluctuations influenced by economic conditions, interest rate changes, and other external factors.
- Property Vulnerability: Properties can be vulnerable to various threats, including damage or devaluation caused by natural disasters or environmental factors. This risk becomes more pronounced as extreme weather patterns become increasingly common.
- Financial Hurdles: Real estate investments often require a substantial amount of capital. Investors may encounter difficulties when seeking financing or to manage the debt associated with their investments.
- Ongoing Management: Successful real estate investments demand ongoing management and maintenance. Investors might encounter challenges finding reliable tenants, efficiently overseeing their properties, and addressing unforeseen expenses.
By understanding these potential risks and preparing accordingly, investors can make more informed decisions and develop strategies to mitigate these challenges, ultimately optimizing the benefits of their real estate investments.
Real Estate in Connecticut
Connecticut boasts a unique blend of natural beauty, a rich history, and a proximity to major cities like New York City and Boston. These factors contribute to a real estate market that has proven to be a stable and potentially lucrative investment opportunity.
Here are some reasons why investing in Connecticut real estate during retirement makes sense:
- Property Appreciation: Over the years, Connecticut has witnessed steady property appreciation. The number of listings increased by 116.1% in April 2023. From 1,759 in December 2022. This means that the value of your real estate investment is likely to increase over time, providing a source of potential capital appreciation.
- Stable Rental Market: Connecticut has a strong rental market, making it an ideal place to invest in income-producing properties. Rental income can be a reliable source of passive income in retirement.
- Diverse Investment Options: Connecticut offers a range of real estate investment opportunities, from residential properties to commercial real estate and vacation rentals. This diversity allows you to tailor your investments to your financial goals and risk tolerance.
- Tax Benefits: Connecticut offers various tax incentives and deductions for real estate investors, making it more appealing for retirees looking to minimize their tax burden.
Real Estate in Colorado
With our sister office located in Denver, Colorado, we have the inside knowledge and advice if you are considering adding Colorado Real Estate into your portfolio.
- Scenic Diversity: Colorado's real estate market offers a stunning array of landscapes, from the bustling cityscapes of Denver to the serene beauty of the Rocky Mountains. Buyers can choose from urban, suburban, or rural settings, catering to various lifestyle preferences.
- Strong Appreciation: Colorado has experienced consistent real estate appreciation over the years, making it an appealing option for investment. In April 2023, the median sale price dropped by 5.2% compared to the previous year, and there was a 26.6% decrease in the number of homes sold. However, there is a silver lining as new buyers enter the market, thanks to more stable mortgage rates, which currently stand at 6.79%.
- Tax Benefits: Colorado offers property tax deductions for homeowners, helping to reduce the annual tax burden on real estate for seniors 65 or older who have lived in their homes for at least ten consecutive years. This exemption allows eligible seniors to exempt 50% of the first $200,000 of their property's value from taxation.
- Agricultural Land Deductions: If you are a landowner with agricultural property, you could be eligible for agricultural land deductions. These deductions could help reduce property tax assessments for qualifying agricultural properties. The deductions amount to 20% of the resulting lease payments, with a cap of up to $25,000 per year, and can be claimed for a maximum of three years.
The Role of a Fiduciary Advisor
Investing in real estate during retirement can pose complexities, especially for those managing significant portfolios. If you're seeking a Connecticut-based or Colorado-based Fiduciary Advisor with extensive experience in real estate investments, Agemy Financial Strategies is here to help.
Fiduciary Advisors are legally obligated to prioritize your best interests, delivering impartial advice and recommendations aligned with your financial goals. Our seasoned professionals can help you identify opportunities and make well-informed decisions tailored to your unique needs and objectives.
Our advisors are adept at seamlessly integrating your real estate investments into your comprehensive retirement portfolio, helping to ensure it remains balanced and diversified. To explore our full service offerings, see here.
Final Thoughts
Investors should stay informed about changes in the real estate market and be prepared to adjust their investment strategy accordingly. Partnering with a Fiduciary advisor can help you mitigate risks and take advantage of upcoming opportunities. At Agemy Financial Strategies, you can rest assured knowing you are working with professionals who have your best interests at heart. Our Fiduciaries are here to help you make informed decisions and enjoy a financially secure retirement.
Ready to see if real estate investments are right for you? If you're ready to start the conversation, contact us today to schedule your complimentary consultation.