Real Estate Investors: Plan for the Market Ahead

There are many strategies you can apply to become a successful real estate investor. Though real estate is generally considered one of the safest long-term investments, it is not without its risk. The market will have fluctuations, both big and small. The investors who are most prepared for these changing market conditions are the ones who tend to experience the most success over the long run.

Plan for the Future

The message here is quite simple. You must plan for the market ahead. There may be certain market changes that are easy to predict based on historical patterns and key economic indicators. Then, there are the unexpected issues. You may not be able to plan for certain changes in a specific sense. However, you can always expect the unexpected and utilize sound investment strategies to properly adapt to these changing conditions.

Predicting the Market Trends

Let’s take a look at how to plan for changes in market conditions that are more predictable. A savvy real estate investor will know how to study broad market conditions based on certain socioeconomic factors, such as:

• Fed rate and mortgage rates
• Housing prices and rental price trends
• Housing inventory
• Buyer/renter demand
• Employment rates
• New tax codes

You can pay attention to different trends and projections to build a smarter real estate investment plan. Properties are not always simple “buy low, sell high” prospects like stocks and bonds. Successful real estate investors know how to make good money in all market conditions. Anticipating the trends and knowing how to take advantage of different conditions will put you in a great position when investing in real estate.

Localized Planning

You also have to consider localized market conditions and trends directly affecting your investments. Narrow your focus on the areas where you are buying, selling, renovating or renting. What’s happening in a housing market within a specific neighborhood may be very different compared to general real estate trends across an entire county, state, region or the whole country. Research and understand your specific investment market(s) to anticipate changes and plan accordingly.

Expect the Unexpected

Next, there are general investment strategies you can apply to help plan for the more unexpected market changes. Real estate tends to be fairly cyclical, but it can always offer some surprises. It pays to be prepared for anything and everything. This is where diversification can make a significant difference in your overall real estate investment portfolio. The most successful property investors own different types of properties in different markets to help provide more balance and security. One property may be struggling to make profit while another could be thriving. A diversified plan helps keep you protected as market conditions change—both in expected and unexpected ways.

The key to success is having a plan and understanding the market trends—past, present and future—that can affect each of your investment holdings. Real estate is often a safe long-term investment, but there is no such thing as a sure bet. It takes planning, preparation and adaptability to be successful in this industry.

For help with all your investment planning—including your real estate holdings—count on the team at Illumination Wealth to provide the guidance and support you need. Contact us today to schedule an introductory consultation with one of our leading financial advisors.