20 Real Estate Investment Strategies for Beginners
Brought to you by Augustine Real Estate
#1: Fix & Flip
The fix and flip strategy is a real estate investment strategy that involves purchasing a distressed property, renovating it, and selling it for a profit. This strategy requires a significant amount of capital, as the investor must purchase the property and cover the costs of renovations before selling it. The goal is to increase the value of the property through renovations and upgrades, allowing the investor to sell it for a higher price than they paid for it. Successful implementation of this strategy requires careful planning, market analysis, and project management skills.
TL;DR
You buy a distressed property / property "with lots of potential".
You renovate the property in a manner that increases its value.
You sell the property for a higher price that covers the cost of purchase + renos and leaves you with a profit.
#2: Primary Residence
The primary residence strategy is a real estate investment strategy that involves purchasing a property with the intention of using it as a primary residence. This strategy is primarily focused on finding a property that meets the homeowner's needs and is expected to appreciate in value over time. The goal is to build equity and wealth over the long-term by owning a property that appreciates in value, while also enjoying the benefits of home ownership such as stability and security. This strategy typically requires a significant amount of capital for the down payment, closing costs, and ongoing expenses such as mortgage payments, property taxes, and maintenance costs. Successful implementation of this strategy requires careful consideration of personal finances, lifestyle goals, and the real estate market.
TL;DR
You buy a property (home) that suits your needs.
You live in it for a period of time that allows its value to appreciate.
You sell your home for an appreciated price and net a healthy profit.
#3: Multi-Family Properties
The multi-family property strategy is a real estate investment strategy that involves purchasing a property with multiple units such as an apartment complex, duplex, or triplex. This strategy is focused on generating rental income from the various units and potentially increasing the property's value through improvements or renovations. The goal is to maximize cash flow by renting out the units, while also building equity over time as the property appreciates in value. Successful implementation of this strategy requires careful consideration of the property's location, condition, and potential rental income. Additionally, managing a multi-family property can be complex and requires strong management and communication skills to ensure the property is well-maintained and tenants are satisfied.
TL;DR
You buy a property that comprises of multiple residential units (multiple 1-bed/2-bed/3-bed apartments)
You rent out the various units to tenants (often different groups/families) and collect rent.
Now, you own a cash-flow positive, income generating property that also appreciates in value.
#4: Long Term Rentals
The long-term rental strategy is a real estate investment strategy that involves purchasing a property with the intention of renting it out to tenants for an extended period of time, typically 6 months or longer. This strategy is focused on generating steady rental income and building equity over time as the property appreciates in value. The goal is to create a consistent cash flow stream while maintaining the property to attract and retain tenants. Successful implementation of this strategy requires careful consideration of the property's location, condition, and potential rental income. Additionally, managing a long-term rental property requires strong communication and organization skills to ensure the property is well-maintained and tenants are satisfied.
TL;DR
You buy a property (home) in a good location with high rental demand.
You rent out the property to tenants (often a single group) for a lease term typically over 6 months, and collect rent.
Now, you own a cash-flow positive, income generating property that also appreciates in value.
#5: Short Term Rentals
The short-term rental strategy is a real estate investment strategy that involves purchasing a property with the intention of renting it out to tenants for a short period of time, typically less than 30 days. This strategy is focused on generating higher rental income on a per-night basis, as short-term rentals can command higher rates than long-term rentals. The goal is to create a consistent cash flow stream while maintaining the property to attract and retain guests. Successful implementation of this strategy requires careful consideration of the property's location, condition, and potential rental income. Additionally, managing a short-term rental property requires strong communication and organization skills to ensure the property is well-maintained and guests are satisfied. It is also important to comply with local regulations and obtain necessary permits for short-term rentals.
TL;DR
You buy a property (home) in a good location with high rental demand.
You rent out the property to tenants (often a single group) for a short-term leases typically on a per-night basis (as in the case of Airbnb rentals / bed-and-breakfast, etc.), and collect premium rents that are much higher than average.
Now, you own a cash-flow positive, income generating property that also appreciates in value.
#6: Extra Space Rentals
The extra space rental strategy is a real estate investment strategy that involves purchasing a property with the intention of renting out additional space, such as a garage, storage unit, or parking spot. This strategy is focused on generating rental income from unused or underutilized space on the property. The goal is to create a passive income stream while utilizing the property to its full potential. Successful implementation of this strategy requires careful consideration of the property's layout and potential rental income for the extra space. Additionally, managing extra space rentals may require additional tasks such as maintenance and security to ensure the safety and satisfaction of renters. It is important to comply with local regulations and obtain necessary permits for any extra space rental activities.
TL;DR
You buy a property in a good location with great accessibility (preferably).
You realize that you have extra space or spare features available that you don't need - eg. Parking Space, Vacant space for storage, Empty Garage, Barns, Sheds, etc..
So, you rent out those extra spaces to paying customers for a periodic fee.
Now, you own a property that appreciates in value, with income generating features.
#7: Two-Year Flip
The two-year flip strategy is a real estate investment strategy that involves purchasing a property, renovating it, and selling it within a two-year time frame to take advantage of capital gains tax benefits. This strategy is focused on generating a substantial profit from the sale of the property by increasing its value through renovations and upgrades. The goal is to sell the property for a higher price than the purchase and renovation costs, while also minimizing taxes by holding the property for at least two years. Successful implementation of this strategy requires careful planning, market analysis, and project management skills to ensure the renovation and sale processes are completed within the two-year timeframe. Additionally, it is important to consider market conditions and potential buyer preferences when selecting the property and planning renovations to maximize its resale value.
TL;DR
You buy a distressed property / property "with lots of potential".
You renovate the property in a manner that increases its value.
You sell the property after a 2-year ownership period, for a higher price that covers the cost of purchase + renos and leaves you with a profit.
The two-year period allows you to take advantage of capital gains tax benefits. (Please contact your accountant to understand the nature of any applicable benefits)
#8: REITs
Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) are companies that own, operate, and manage income-producing real estate assets such as apartment buildings, office buildings, retail spaces, and industrial properties. They allow individuals to invest in real estate without owning and managing physical properties themselves. REITs are required to distribute at least 90% of their taxable income to shareholders as dividends, making them an attractive investment for those seeking regular income streams. They are also often publicly traded, making them a liquid investment option. Successful investing in REITs requires careful consideration of the type of properties the REIT invests in, its financial performance, and the overall state of the real estate market.
TL;DR
Buying and selling REITs (Real Estate Investment Trusts) is similar to buying and selling stocks. Here are the general steps:
Open a brokerage account.
Research REITs.
Place an order.
Monitor your investment.
Sell your REIT.
It's important to note that REITs are subject to market fluctuations and other risks, so it's important to do your due diligence and consult with a financial advisor before making any investment decisions. Additionally, keep in mind that REITs may also have unique tax implications, so it's important to understand the tax implications of investing in REITs.
#9: RE Mutual Funds
Real Estate Mutual Funds are investment funds that invest in real estate-related assets such as REITs, real estate stocks, and mortgage-backed securities. They allow individuals to invest in real estate without owning and managing physical properties themselves. Real Estate Mutual Funds are typically actively managed by a professional fund manager, who selects and manages the investments based on the fund's investment objectives. They offer diversification and the potential for growth in the real estate market. Successful investing in Real Estate Mutual Funds requires careful consideration of the fund's investment objectives, fees, performance history, and the overall state of the real estate market.
TL;DR
Investing in Real Estate Mutual Funds typically involves the following steps:
Research Real Estate Mutual Funds.
Open a brokerage account.
Choose a Real Estate Mutual Fund.
Purchase shares of the fund.
Monitor your investment.
Sell your shares.
As with any investment, it's important to do your due diligence and consult with a financial advisor before making any investment decisions. Additionally, keep in mind that Real Estate Mutual Funds may have unique tax implications, so it's important to understand the tax implications of investing in these funds.
#10: RE ETFs
Real Estate ETFs (Exchange-Traded Funds) are investment funds that track a real estate-related index, such as a REIT index or real estate stock index. They allow individuals to invest in real estate without owning and managing physical properties themselves. Real Estate ETFs are traded on stock exchanges like regular stocks, making them a liquid investment option. They offer diversification and the potential for growth in the real estate market. Real Estate ETFs may also offer tax advantages over other real estate investment options. Successful investing in Real Estate ETFs requires careful consideration of the ETF's index, fees, performance history, and the overall state of the real estate market.
TL;DR
Investing in Real Estate Mutual Funds typically involves the following steps:
Research Real Estate ETFs.
Open a brokerage account with a reputable firm that offers access to Real Estate ETFs.
Choose a Real Estate ETF.
Purchase shares of the ETF.
Monitor your investment.
Sell your shares.
As with any investment, it's important to do your due diligence and consult with a financial advisor before making any investment decisions. Additionally, keep in mind that Real Estate ETFs may have unique tax implications, so it's important to understand the tax implications of investing in these funds.
#11: Farm Land
The real estate farm land strategy is a real estate investment strategy that involves purchasing agricultural land for the purpose of farming, leasing, or holding for future development. This strategy is focused on generating rental income from farming or leasing the land, as well as the potential for appreciation in value over time. The goal is to create a consistent cash flow stream while holding the property for a longer-term investment. Successful implementation of this strategy requires careful consideration of the property's location, soil quality, and zoning regulations, as well as an understanding of the agricultural market and potential rental income. Additionally, managing the farm land may require knowledge of farming practices and leasing agreements. It is important to comply with local regulations and obtain necessary permits for any agricultural activities on the property.
TL;DR
You buy farm land.
You cultivate and harvest crops on the land.
You sell the crops for a healthy profit, while the land appreciates in value.
#12: Raw Land
The real estate raw land strategy is a real estate investment strategy that involves purchasing undeveloped land with the potential for future development or appreciation in value. This strategy is focused on holding the land for a longer-term investment with the potential for future gains from appreciation, rezoning, or development. The goal is to create a passive income stream through holding the land, while also potentially profiting from a future sale or development of the property. Successful implementation of this strategy requires careful consideration of the property's location, zoning regulations, and potential for future development. Additionally, managing raw land may require knowledge of environmental regulations, land-use planning, and the potential risks associated with natural disasters. It is important to comply with local regulations and obtain necessary permits for any land-use activities on the property.
TL;DR
You buy raw land.
You evaluate and identify best use-cases for the land, based on its characteristics.
You determine the appropriate zoning for its highest and best use and obtain it.
You sell the land for a much higher price owing to the new zoning and any potential foreseeable developments.
#13: Commercial Real Estate
The commercial real estate strategy is a real estate investment strategy that involves purchasing income-producing properties such as office buildings, retail spaces, warehouses, or other commercial properties. The primary goal is to generate rental income from tenants, with the potential for appreciation in property value over time. The strategy may involve either holding the property for a longer-term investment or actively managing the property for the purpose of maximizing rental income and resale value. Successful implementation of this strategy requires careful consideration of the property's location, market demand, tenant quality, and overall financial performance. Additionally, managing commercial properties may require knowledge of lease agreements, property maintenance, and the local regulations governing commercial real estate. It is important to evaluate the property's cash flow and potential for future growth when considering investing in commercial real estate.
TL;DR
You buy a commercial property (office space, retail store, warehouse, restaurant etc..) in a suitable location.
You derive revenue from the property by either operating it yourself, or leasing it to commercial tenants.
You can later sell your commercial asset for an appreciated resale value.
#14: Real Estate Notes
Real estate notes, also known as promissory notes or mortgage notes, are legal documents that outline the terms of a loan secured by a real estate property. They are a type of debt instrument that represents the borrower's promise to repay the loan, including the interest and principal, over a specified period of time. The note is typically backed by a mortgage or deed of trust, which serves as collateral for the loan. Real estate notes can be bought and sold by investors, who receive regular interest payments on the note until it reaches maturity or can be sold to another investor for a profit. Real estate notes offer an opportunity for investors to earn passive income from the interest payments without owning the physical property.
The real estate notes strategy is a real estate investment strategy that involves purchasing notes secured by real estate, such as mortgages or trust deeds. The primary goal is to generate regular cash flow from the interest payments on the notes. Investors may purchase the notes at a discount and receive regular payments until the note reaches maturity. Alternatively, the notes can be sold to other investors for a profit. Successful implementation of this strategy requires careful evaluation of the creditworthiness of the borrower, the underlying real estate asset, and the terms of the note. Additionally, managing real estate notes may require knowledge of foreclosure laws and procedures, as well as an understanding of the local real estate market. It is important to consider the potential risks and rewards of investing in real estate notes before committing capital to this strategy.
TL;DR
You can derive revenue from Real Estate Notes through any of the following means:
Interest payments: When you purchase a Real Estate Note, you become the lender and receive interest payments from the borrower.
Principal payments: This occurs when the borrower pays back the principal amount of the loan.
Reselling the note: If you decide to sell the Real Estate Note, you may be able to sell it for more than you paid for it, particularly if the note has a higher interest rate or is backed by a valuable piece of real estate.
If you are not interested in managing the Real Estate Note yourself, you can hire a loan servicing company to handle the administrative tasks such as collecting payments and handling delinquent accounts. In return, you may be charged a loan servicing fee.
It's important to note that investing in Real Estate Notes carries risks and is not suitable for all investors. Before investing in Real Estate Notes, it's important to do your due diligence and consult with a financial advisor to determine if it's a suitable investment for your portfolio.
#15: Crowdfunding Real Estate
Real estate crowdfunding is a real estate investment strategy that allows investors to pool their money together to invest in real estate projects. This strategy is typically facilitated through online platforms that connect investors with real estate developers or operators seeking funding for their projects. Investors can invest smaller amounts of capital into a diversified portfolio of real estate assets, with the potential for regular cash flow and capital appreciation. The crowdfunding platform typically handles the due diligence, legal, and administrative aspects of the investment, allowing investors to focus on selecting suitable projects and managing their portfolio. Successful implementation of this strategy requires careful evaluation of the crowdfunding platform, the quality of the projects offered, and the overall market conditions. Additionally, managing real estate crowdfunding investments may require knowledge of real estate finance, investment analysis, and portfolio management. It is important to consider the potential risks and rewards of investing in real estate crowdfunding before committing capital to this strategy.
TL;DR
You can follow the below points while considering crowdfunding real estate investments:
Choose a real estate crowdfunding platform.
Create an account.
Browse investment opportunities.
Invest in a project.
Monitor your investment.
Receive returns.
It's important to note that real estate crowdfunding carries risks, and you should thoroughly research the platform and investment opportunity before investing. Additionally, consult with a financial advisor to determine if real estate crowdfunding is a suitable investment for your portfolio.
#16: Mobile Home Parks
The real estate mobile home parks strategy is a real estate investment strategy that involves purchasing and operating mobile home parks. Mobile home parks are typically leased to tenants who own their own mobile homes but rent the land on which the homes are situated. The primary goal of this strategy is to generate rental income from the tenants, with the potential for appreciation in property value over time. The strategy may involve acquiring and improving existing mobile home parks or developing new parks in desirable locations. Successful implementation of this strategy requires careful consideration of the property's location, market demand, tenant quality, and overall financial performance. Additionally, managing mobile home parks may require knowledge of tenant relations, property maintenance, and local regulations governing mobile home communities. It is important to evaluate the property's cash flow and potential for future growth when considering investing in mobile home parks.
TL;DR
You buy recreational land / vacant land permitted for mobile homes.
You segment the land into designated parking zones of appropriate sizes to attract mobile home owners.
You collect rent/land lease from tenants who park their mobile homes/trailers on your land.
#17: Mobile Homes
The real estate mobile home strategy is a real estate investment strategy that involves purchasing and owning mobile homes for investment purposes. Mobile homes are prefabricated homes that can be moved from one location to another. The primary goal of this strategy is to generate rental income from leasing the mobile homes to tenants, with the potential for appreciation in the value of the homes over time. The strategy may involve acquiring and renovating existing mobile homes or developing new homes for the rental market. Successful implementation of this strategy requires careful evaluation of the local market demand for mobile homes, the condition and quality of the homes, and the overall financial performance of the investment. Additionally, managing mobile homes may require knowledge of tenant relations, property maintenance, and local regulations governing mobile home communities. It is important to consider the potential risks and rewards of investing in mobile homes before committing capital to this strategy.
TL;DR
You buy a mobile home.
You park it on accessible leased land, in a prospective location.
You collect rent/land lease from tenants who rent the mobile home for short-term / long-term stays.
#18: Sandwich Lease Options
The real estate strategy involving sandwich lease options is a creative real estate investing technique that involves a three-party agreement between a property owner, a tenant-buyer, and an investor. The investor, also known as the middleman, enters into a lease option agreement with the property owner to lease the property for a specific term and with the option to purchase the property at an agreed-upon price. The investor then subleases the property to a tenant-buyer, who has the option to purchase the property at a higher price than the investor's purchase price. The investor earns a profit by collecting the rent from the tenant-buyer, while paying rent to the property owner and pocketing the difference between the rent collected and the rent paid. Successful implementation of this strategy requires careful evaluation of the property's value, market demand, and the tenant-buyer's ability to purchase the property at the end of the lease term. Additionally, managing the tenant-buyer's expectations and ensuring that all parties understand the terms of the lease option agreement is critical to success in this strategy. It is important to consult with a real estate attorney and conduct thorough due diligence before entering into a sandwich lease option agreement.
TL;DR
You lease a property from a landlord/owner for a certain amount of rent.
You sub-lease the same property to sub-tenants for a higher rent than what you pay, and gain the difference.
Ex:
You pay a rent of $1,000 per month, for a property you have leased.
You sublease the same property to a new set of tenants for $1,500 per month.
You gain $500 per month after paying your rent to the landlord.
#19: Tax Lien Certificates
The real estate strategy involving tax lien certificates is a unique real estate investing technique that involves purchasing unpaid property tax liens. When property owners fail to pay their property taxes, the local government may place a lien on the property, which is then auctioned off to investors in the form of a tax lien certificate. The investor pays the unpaid taxes on behalf of the property owner and receives the certificate, which entitles the investor to collect the delinquent taxes plus interest from the property owner. Successful implementation of this strategy requires careful evaluation of the property's value, the local tax laws and regulations, and the likelihood that the property owner will pay the delinquent taxes plus interest. Additionally, managing the process of collecting the delinquent taxes and any legal proceedings is critical to success in this strategy. It is important to conduct thorough due diligence and consult with a real estate attorney before investing in tax lien certificates. This strategy can be a profitable way to generate passive income with low investment risk, but it requires patience, diligence, and a willingness to work with delinquent property owners.
TL;DR
You can make money through Tax Lien Certificates by following these steps:
Research tax lien sales.
Attend a tax lien sale.
Bid on tax liens.
Purchase a tax lien certificate.
Collect payments.
Foreclose on the property: If the property owner fails to pay the delinquent taxes plus interest, you may be able to foreclose on the property and take ownership of it.
It's important to note that tax lien investing carries risks, and you should thoroughly research the properties and the delinquent tax history before bidding on a tax lien. Additionally, consult with a legal and financial advisor to determine if tax lien investing is a suitable investment for your portfolio.
#20: Ownership of Rights (Surface, Air, etc.)
In Canada, property ownership can include different rights and interests that can be separated and owned by different individuals or entities. Surface rights refer to ownership of the land and anything on it, such as buildings and trees. Sub-surface rights refer to ownership of the ground below the surface, which can include minerals, oil, and gas. Mineral rights refer specifically to the ownership of minerals, while Riparian rights refer to the right to use and access water on or near the property, such as a river or lake. Air rights refer to the right to use and control the space above the property, such as for building upward or erecting a structure like a billboard, antennae tower, anchored balloon, or above ground structure.
These different rights can be bought, sold, or leased independently of each other, and it is important for property owners to understand what rights they own or may be giving up when entering into agreements with other parties. In some cases, property owners may not own certain rights, such as mineral or air rights, and may need to negotiate with the rightful owner to use or develop the property in a desired way. Understanding and managing these different rights is important in Canadian real estate transactions and can have significant implications for property values and potential uses.
Note: Mineral Rights in Canada are mostly owned by Territorial, Provincial or Federal government agencies.
TL;DR
You purchase a property (mostly land, and/or buildings) in a thoroughly researched location.
You obtain rights to certain aspects of the property such as Surface rights, Riparian rights (access to water sources), or Air rights (access to the space above the land being owned).
You can decide to sell or lease some of these rights in accordance with applicable laws, for a fee.
You now have land as a strategic income producing asset, while it undergoes appreciation.
Interested? Wish to learn more over a conversation? Click here to book a quick chat.