Successful investors employ a strategy that can be more profitable in the long run.Successful investors in real estate avoid going for quick cash and profit. Instead, they often employ a buy-and-hold strategy that can be more profitable in the long run.
There are several ways to use this strategy:
- Buy and lease a property. The value of the property increases over time and renters pay down the principal on your loan.
- Hold the property for a year and a day and you pay less in capital gains taxes.
- Depreciate your property over time and save on additional taxes while the property grows in value.
The goal is to increase your net worth. This is determined by taking the value of everything you own, totaling all your debts, then subtracting debt from the value of all you own. The figure remaining is your net worth. The increase in your net worth is the real measure of success when investing in real estate.
By taking the long view, minor disappointments are put into perspective, and one less profitable investment can be seen in an overall context. The concern over future investing is less when you understand that long-term investments are more important than short-term profits.
Don’t forget, as your net worth increases, it is easier to borrow money at a better interest rate and to meet credit standards. When deciding which property to buy, you have a stronger negotiating position when it is not a single transaction that can make or break you.
Monitoring your net worth on a monthly basis can be helpful to ensure you are in good financial shape. If you see potential problems or a decline, you can take the necessary steps to get back on track.
You may want to consult with your tax professional when making investments, and it’s a good idea to seek the advice of a professional mortgage broker with a variety of loan opportunities and who can often find the right loan for a specific planned purchase.
Premiere Mortgage has offices on Maui and Kaua‘i and provides a wide range of services to the real estate community. Tricia Morris may be reached on Maui, in Kihei, at 874-8800, Wailea, at 891-8900, West Maui at 665-8800, on Kaua‘i at (808) 822-2300, or toll-free at (800) 813-7711.