Real Estate Investing: Top 6 Ways to Invest in Real Estate

There are many ways to invest in real estate in today's market. Some people invest in fixer-upper properties, while others invest in trusts tied to the real estate market. From making a down payment to selling a property, it's essential to do your research first to make the best decision for your money. Keep reading to learn about six popular ways to invest in real estate.

For informational purposes only. Always consult with a licensed real estate professional before proceeding with any real estate transaction.

REITs: A Hands-Off Investment For All Investors

Real estate investment trusts, or REITs, have quickly become one of the most popular ways to invest. For those unfamiliar with them, REITs are a type of investment firm that owns and operates income-producing real estate.

Investing in REITs can be an excellent option for hands-off investors because they provide the stability of real estate without the need to manage a property. And because they trade like stocks on major exchanges, they offer liquidity and flexibility.

There are several different types of REITs, including equity REITs, mortgage REITs, and hybrid REITs. Equity REITs own and operate income-producing properties, mortgage REITs invest in mortgages and other types of debt instruments, and hybrid REITs own both equity and mortgage assets.

Your Home: The Most Common Real Estate Investment

For most people, their home is their biggest asset and the place where they have the most equity. That's why it's no surprise that the most common way to invest in real estate is through a primary residence.

Choosing to buy a home instead of renting is advantageous because you earn the immediate value of a place to live and the long-term equity value, driven upwards by timely mortgage payments, high-ROI home improvements, and general property appreciation. There are many responsibilities to being a homeowner, but many people agree that buying a home is one of the best investments available.

Rental Properties: Say Hello To Passive Income

Another common way to invest in real estate is through rental properties. Buying a property and renting it out to tenants can be a great way to generate passive income, which is income that you earn without having to actively work for it.

There are many advantages to being a landlord, including deducting expenses like mortgage interest, property taxes, and maintenance from your taxable income.

Flipping Houses: A DIYer's Favorite Investment

Flipping houses is a popular way to invest in real estate because it can be lucrative. When you flip a house, you buy it cheap, fix it up, and sell it for a profit.

While flipping houses can be profitable, there's still some risk involved. Everyone will need a home inspection before buying a house to fix and flip. A home inspection will protect you from discovering deal-breaking issues with the house when it's too late.

If you plan your expenses well, flipping houses is a great way to make money investing in real estate.

Commercial Real Estate: Long Leases Make Stable Passive Income

Investing in commercial real estate can be a great way to generate stable passive income. Commercial properties are used for businesses rather than for residential purposes.

Commercial leases usually last for several years, making them a stable investment. Additionally, commercial properties tend to appreciate at a rate above the inflation rate.

Raw Land: Study the Trends And Buy Early

Investing in raw land can be risky, but the rewards often make it worth taking the chance—especially when the investors are closely acquainted with the local real estate market trends. The goal is to buy an unbuilt property and wait for the appropriate moment to sell it. Developers always require more ground, so if you can purchase property when the market is down and then sell it at a greater price later, raw land can be one of the best ways to profit on real estate without doing much additional work.

Which Real Estate Investment Is Best For You?

Real estate is a great way to reach your financial goals, and with so many different types of investment opportunities available, there's something for everyone. If you're just starting in the world of real estate investing, we recommend beginning with REITs – these are hands-off investments that will give you exposure to a range of properties without requiring too much work on your part. From there, you can move on to more complex investments like flipping houses or commercial real estate. Whatever route you choose, remember to do your research and stay informed about market trends. With some thoughtful planning and careful budgeting, anyone can make money by investing in real estate.

For informational purposes only. Always consult with a licensed real estate professional before proceeding with any real estate transaction.