Are private equity real estate investments less volatile? We’ll give you the short answer: yes. While no investment is ever 100% risk-free or without ups and downs (certainly the real estate market is not immune to unsettled periods, as we well remember from 2008), compared to the stock market, you are relatively insulated. When you are considering your portfolio and asset allocation, private equity real estate opportunities can deliver solid performance while mitigating risk.
Boom Times Coming to An End?
It’s a law of physics – and the economy – that what goes up must come down. The US has experienced near-record stock market gains and economic growth over the last decade. This will not continue indefinitely, and, in fact, analysts already identify fault lines that indicate a decline. How much and how fast remains to be seen, but savvy investors are readying themselves. Investing in private equity real estate is a valuable risk diversification strategy.
As mentioned, real estate is historically more stable than the stock market. Your risk of loss is also mitigated and minimized by the period of time you hold on to the property, and in boom times, you build equity on the increasing value.
Stability In Real Estate
Real estate is also a tangible asset: you can leverage it for revenue and take advantage of capital appreciation. Land, or property, has inherent value. It will always be worth something – as opposed to other investments that have little or no tangible value. Stocks can plummet to zero, for example, leaving you with nothing to leverage.
When the real estate market does experience declines, it always rebounds. Historically, this market has always recovered from bubbles, including, of course, the 2008 housing crisis. Since that period, prices have normalized and appreciation has grown.
Further, there are numerous tax benefits associated with private equity real estate investments, such as deductions on mortgage interest, depreciation, insurance, property taxes, and operating expenses.
Real Estate Equity Investment Risks
As mentioned – and it is worth repeating – no investment vehicle is without risk. In terms of real estate investment, these can include:
- Tariffs. For example, a US-imposed 25% tariff on foreign steel drives the price up, resulting in higher construction costs. Some real estate projects may be sidelined as developers seek to reduce their exposure and risk. The same applies for construction labor shortages.
- Contracting economies. This may prevent many landlords from raising rents or curb demand for commercial real estate.
- Slower growth and higher interest rates. This leaves less capital to repay debts and fund new projects.
These risks can be countered by utilizing an experienced real estate investment and strategy firm with a track record of high-quality service and performing assets. As well, you will have the advantage of higher cash flows and dividends, higher debt service ratios, and tangible assets that are not offered with stocks or other investment options.
Bottom Line
Private equity real estate investments are less volatile and play a central role in risk diversification and strategic asset allocation. In unsettled markets, investing in this area is a smart, strategic play that can help you preserve wealth – and grow it.
Consider real estate equity investments in CGI Strategies’ properties. Our goal is to positively shape the future and cultivate a culture of innovation, trust, and high returns. Get in touch with our team today to learn more.
