Many new investment choices are available in the modern era, including equities, bonds, fixed deposits, digital currency, mutual funds, and cryptocurrency. Out of all of these options, however, real estate ownership continues to be one of the safest and most lucrative.
While both have their pros and cons, investing in real estate and the stock market are popular options for growing wealth and achieving financial security. Here are our top reasons why you might consider investing in real estate over the stock market.
Potential for Higher Returns
One reason to invest in real estate is the potential for higher returns. While the stock market can be volatile, and returns can fluctuate significantly from year to year, real estate has the potential to provide more stable and consistent returns.
Real estate value tends to appreciate over time, particularly in areas with strong economic growth and job markets. Additionally, you can generate income by renting out these properties, providing a steady cash flow.
Diversification
Real estate also offers the potential for diversification in your investment portfolio. Investing in multiple properties in different locations can spread out your risk and potentially reduce the impact of any downturns in a specific market. This diversification can increase your portfolio’s stability and improve your overall returns.
Legacy
Real estate can be a valuable asset that can be passed down from generation to generation, becoming a part of your family’s legacy.
When you own real estate, you have the ability to decide how to use the property and pass it on to future generations. You can pass the property on to your children, grandchildren, or other family members.
Leverage
Another benefit of investing in real estate is leveraging your investments. When you buy a property, you typically only need to put down a small percentage of the purchase price as a down payment.
This allows you to leverage the property’s value and potentially earn a higher ROI. In contrast, when you invest in the stock market, you must pay the total price of the stock upfront.
Passive Income
Rental properties can generate a steady stream of passive income without requiring active work. This can be a valuable source of financial stability, as it allows for a regular income source that can help cover expenses and provide a financial cushion.
Additionally, it can allow you to focus on other pursuits, such as starting a business, pursuing a hobby, or spending time with your family. Passive income can also help diversify your income streams, as it is not tied to a specific job or business.
While dividend-yielding stocks can be passive income, it can be tricky to choose the right stocks, as it takes weeks of research and investigation into the company you select. They can also significantly go down or be cut completely during periods of uncertainty.
Tax Benefits
Real estate also offers the opportunity for tax benefits. As a real estate investor, you may be able to take advantage of deductions for mortgage interest, property taxes, and other expenses related to owning and maintaining a rental property.
These deductions can reduce your tax burden and increase your overall return on investment.
Forced Savings
Investing in a rental property can be a way to save money and build wealth over time. When you own a rental property, you collect rent from tenants, which can help to offset the costs of owning and maintaining the property, including the mortgage, taxes, and insurance.
Positive cash flow is an investing term to describe expenses that are lower than your costs. You can use the extra money from the positive cash flow to pay off the mortgage, save for retirement, or invest in other opportunities.
By investing in a rental property, you are essentially using the rental income as a form of forced savings, automatically setting aside money each month without actively contributing to a savings account. It can be a valuable way to save if you need help setting aside money or have difficulty sticking to a budget.
Increased Flexibility and Control
Another reason to consider investing in real estate over the stock market is the potential for increased control and flexibility. When you invest in stocks, you are basically purchasing a small part of a company, though you have no say in how it is run.
In contrast, when you own a rental property, you have the ability to make decisions about how the property is managed, including choosing tenants, setting rental rates, and making improvements. This control level can be particularly appealing to those who want to be more hands-on with their investments.
Conclusion
Investing in real estate or the stock market ultimately depends on your financial goals and risk tolerance. Both options have unique benefits and drawbacks, so consider your options carefully. Real estate may be a good option if you’re looking for a long-term investment with the potential for consistent returns and tax benefits.
While the stock market may offer higher potential returns in a shorter period, it carries a higher level of risk.
If you want to invest in real estate, the property managers at Keyrenter New England can help you answer all questions. Our team is more than ready and willing to partner with investors as well!