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Lots More Price Declines Are Coming’: Moody’s Chief Economist Sounds Alarm On Commercial Real Estate, Warns That Loan Defaults Are ‘Sure To Increase’

Real estate investing has gained popularity in recent years — perhaps because the asset is a well-known hedge against inflation. But according to Moody’s Analytics, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows.

Data from Moody’s Analytics reported by Bloomberg revealed that commercial real estate prices in the U.S. fell in the first quarter of 2023, marking the first decline since 2011.

Courthouse records of transactions analyzed by Moody’s showed a drop of less than 1% in the commercial real estate market during the quarter. Multifamily residences and office buildings were the key sectors driving this decline, according to the report.

And this could be just the beginning. Moody’s Analytics Chief Economist Mark Zandi warned that “lots more price declines are coming.”

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Delinquencies And Defaults

Zandi explained the reasoning behind his bearish outlook on Twitter.

The economist pointed out that demand for commercial real estate is weak because of more people working remotely and shopping online. A substantial number of multifamily units are under construction. Meanwhile, it’s challenging to obtain credit for refinancing and purchasing properties.

As a result, Zandi said commercial real estate prices are “expected to be off 10% peak-to-trough by mid-decade.”

And borrowers will likely face difficulties in meeting payment obligations.

“CRE loan delinquencies and defaults are sure to increase, causing agita for the banking system,” Zandi said in a tweet.

Zandi also mentioned that rising delinquencies and defaults “shouldn’t be the catalyst for a revival of the banking crisis” because property owners have built up “ample equity” as a result of the substantial price gains during the pandemic.

Office Vs. Housing

Zandi isn’t the only expert to sound the alarm.

During an interview with former Fox News personality Tucker Carlson, Tesla Inc. CEO Elon Musk issued a bleak warning regarding commercial real estate.

“We really haven’t seen the commercial real estate shoe drop. That’s more like an anvil, not a shoe,” Musk said. “So the stuff we’ve seen thus far actually hasn’t even — it’s only slightly real estate portfolio degradation. But that will become a very serious thing later this year, in my view.”

He argued that the work-from-home trend has substantially reduced the use of office buildings around the world. And that does not bode well for the segment.

“Almost all cities at this point have record vacancies of commercial real estate,” Musk said.

Billionaire investor Stanley Druckenmiller also highlighted the challenges facing office buildings at the 2023 Sohn Investment Conference.

When discussing how the median regional bank has 43% of its loans in commercial real estate, Druckenmiller pointed out that “around 40% of that is in office.”

And because of the Great Resignation and more people working from home, he said, “We have a higher vacancy rate than we had in 2008.”

But it’s a different story for housing.

“Housing has obviously gone down dramatically given the 500 basis-point increase in interest rates,” Druckenmiller said.

“But unlike [2007 and 2008], we actually have a structural shortage in single-family homes going into this. So if things got bad enough, I could actually see housing — which is about the last thing you would think of intuitively — could be a big beneficiary on the way out.”

The reality is, elevated home prices and high mortgage rates mean owning a home is less feasible. And when people can’t afford to buy a home, renting becomes the only option. This creates a stable rental income stream for landlords.

The best part? It’s easy for retail investors to invest in housing — and you don’t actually need to buy a house to do it. There are publicly traded real estate investment trusts that own income-producing properties and pay dividends to shareholders. And if you don’t like the stock market’s volatility, there are crowdfunding platforms that allow retail investors to invest directly in residential real estate with as little as $100 through the private market.

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This article ‘Lots More Price Declines Are Coming’: Moody’s Chief Economist Sounds Alarm On Commercial Real Estate, Warns That Loan Defaults Are ‘Sure To Increase’ originally appeared on Benzinga.com

The Best Real Estate Investments

What are considered the best real estate investments? With the U.S. real estate market on the rise, investors are sifting through every available property type to discover which will help them profit. So which sectors and properties are the best moves for investors today? Keep reading to learn more about the best type of real estate investment for you.

Types of Real Estate Investments

There are several types of real estate investors should be familiar with: commercial, residential, raw land, new construction, crowdfunding platforms, and REITs. Each of these types will come with unique advantages and disadvantages that investors should evaluate. Let’s look at each of the options available:

  1. Residential Real Estate
  2. Commercial Real Estate
  3. Raw Land & New Construction
  4. Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs)
  5. Crowdfunding Platforms

1. Residential Real Estate

There are numerous rental property types in residential real estate, though the most common is thought to be single-family homes. Other residential properties include duplexes, multifamily properties, and vacation homes. Residential real estate is ideal for many investors because it can be easier to turn profits consistently. Of course, there are many residential real estate investing strategies to deploy and different levels of competition across markets — what may be right for one investor may not be best for the next. For this reason, choosing the right exit strategy and market is key when it comes to residential real estate.

The most common exit strategies used in residential real estate include wholesaling, rehabbing, and buy and hold properties, which can be used to generate rental income. Investors should be careful to consider which strategies would work best in their market area by conducting a thorough market analysis.

When managed correctly, a residential real estate investment can yield attractive profits. This is because, in addition to earning steady cash flow, residential real estate benefits from a number of tax breaks.

2. Commercial Real Estate

The best commercial properties to invest in include industrial, office, retail, hospitality, and multifamily projects. For investors with a strong focus on improving their local communities, commercial real estate investing can support that focus.

One reason commercial properties are considered one of the best types of real estate investments is the potential for higher cash flow. Investors who opt for commercial properties may find they represent higher income potential, longer leases, and lower vacancy rates than other forms of real estate. James Angel, Co-Founder of DYL states that “industrial real estate includes warehouses, storage units, car washes, and other special-purpose properties that produce revenue from clients that visit the facility. Industrial real estate investments frequently include major fee and service revenue streams, such as coin-operated vacuum cleaners at a car wash, which can help the owner maximize their return on investment”. Investors may also enjoy less competition in commercial real estate because purchasing these properties can be a larger undertaking than working with residential homes. To learn more about getting started in , be sure to read this article. 

3. Raw Land Investing & New Construction

Raw land investing and new construction represent two types of real estate investments that can diversify an investor’s portfolio. Raw land refers to any vacant land available for purchase and is most attractive in markets with high projected growth. New construction is not much different; however, properties have already been built on the land. Investing in new construction is also popular in rapidly growing markets.

While many investors may be unfamiliar with raw land and new construction investing, these investment types can represent attractive profits for investors. Whether you are interested in developing a property from start to finish or profiting from a long-term buy and hold, raw land and new construction provide a unique opportunity to real estate investors.

Investors should be prepared to complete extensive market research to maximize profits when investing in raw land and new construction. This will ensure you choose a desirable area and prevent the investment from being hampered by market factors.

4. Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs)

Real estate investment trusts or REITs are companies that own different commercial real estate types, such as hotels, shops, offices, malls, or restaurants. You can invest in shares of these real estate companies on the stock exchange. When you invest in a REIT, you invest in the properties these companies own without the added risk of owning the property yourself.

It is a requirement for REITs to return 90% of their taxable income to shareholders every year. This offers investors to receive dividends while diversifying their portfolio at the same time. Publicly traded REITs also offer flexible liquidity in contrast to other types of real estate investments. You can sell your shares of the company on the stock exchange when you need emergency funds.

5. Crowdfunding Platforms

Crowdfunding platforms offer investors access to several assets that offer high returns and are traditionally reserved for the wealthy. While this offers the ease of finding assets to investors, this type of real estate investment also introduces a high amount of risk. Crowdfunding platforms are typically limited to accredited investors or those with a high net worth. Some sites offer access to non-accredited investors as well. 

The main types of real estate investments from crowdfunding platforms are non-traded REITs or REITs that are not on the stock exchange. In terms of non-traded REITs, your funds may be invested for several years with no possibility of pulling your money out when you need it.

[ Ready to take the next step in your real estate education? Learn how to get started in real estate investing by attending our FREE online real estate class. ] 

What Is the Best Type of Real Estate investment?

The best type of real estate investment will depend on your individual circumstances, goals, market area, and preferred investing strategy. While many investors want a more straightforward answer, determining the best type of investment property is a subjective process. Choosing the right property type comes down to weighing each option’s pros and cons, though there are a few key factors investors should keep in mind as they seek the best choice.

When choosing the best type of investment property, the importance of location can not be understated. Investors operating in “up-and-coming” markets may find success with vacant land or new construction, while investors working in more “mature” markets may be interested in residential properties.

Aside from location, investors should also be aware of their own preferences when it comes to investing. Assess your preferred level of involvement, risk tolerance, and profitability as you decide which property type to invest in. Investors wishing to take on a more passive role may opt for buy and hold commercial or residential properties and employ a property manager. Those hoping to take on a more active role, on the other hand, may find developing vacant land or rehabbing residential homes to be more fulfilling.

As you choose the best type of investment property for you, it is also important to keep in mind that many investors find success investing in various property types. It is not uncommon for investors to familiarize themselves with residential real estate before moving on to commercial properties. That being said, there is no reason investors cannot achieve success investing in multiple property types.

Active Vs. Passive Investing

An important distinction to make when choosing an investment strategy is between active and passive investments. Active strategies, as the name implies, require a more hands-on management approach. For example, rehabbing a house is considered an active investment strategy. You will be in charge of coordinating renovations, overseeing contractors, and ultimately ensuring the property sells. Active strategies require more time and effort, though they are associated with large profit margins. 

On the other hand, passive real estate investing is great for investors who want to take a less involved approach. Examples of passive real estate investing include REITs, buy and holds, or rental property ownership. With these strategies, you can enjoy passive income over time while allowing your investments to be managed by someone else (such as a property management company). The only thing to keep in mind is that you can lose out on some of your returns by hiring someone else to manage the investment. Overall, the right investment approach will depend on your schedule, skill level, and finances.

Direct Vs. Indirect Investing

Another consideration to make when selecting a real estate investing strategy is direct vs. indirect. Similar to active vs. passive investing, direct vs. indirect refers to the level of involvement required. Direct investments involve actually purchasing or managing properties, while indirect strategies are less hands on. For example, REIT investing or crowdfunded properties are indirect real estate investments. Direct investments include buying or rehabbing properties.

Where To Find Real Estate Investment Properties

Many investors can get so caught up in identifying a property type that they don’t know where to start when it comes to finding an actual property. So as you familiarize yourself with different property types, also be sure to learn where and how to find each one. Here are a few options investors may find useful:

MLS Listings & FSBOs

Many investors find properties on the MLS or through for sale by owner (FSBO) listing. There are tons of properties on the market that fly under the radar because investors and homebuyers don’t know where to look. Some of these properties suffer from poor or non-existent marketing, while others are overpriced when listed and therefore failed to receive any attention. This means that those investors willing to sort through the MLS can find a variety of investment opportunities.

To access the MLS, investors either need to be a real estate agent themselves or be willing to work with one. This way, investors can consistently track or be alerted to new listings in their target area. For those wondering how to make connections with real estate agents in their respective areas, it is a good idea to attend local networking or real estate event.

Investors searching for FSBOs will also find it beneficial to work with a real estate agent. Real estate agents are often aware of the FSBO properties in a given area and may be willing to pass that information to their investor partners. Investors can also drive through their target areas, looking for signs to find these properties. Remember, identifying properties can take time, and investors should be ready to employ multiple angles to secure their next deal.

Off-Market Properties

For investors living in oversaturated markets, off-market properties can represent an opportunity to get ahead of the competition. Though they are not listed on the MLS, off-market properties are not impossible to find; investors need to know how to search.

When it comes to looking for off-market properties, there are a few resources investors should check first. These include public records, real estate auctions, wholesalers, networking events, and contractors. Each of these sources represents a unique chance to find properties in a given area. For example, wholesalers are often aware of freshly rehabbed properties available at reasonable prices. Many of these are already leased — and may even come with an existing property management company.

Then there are foreclosures. Despite numerous proclamations in the news that foreclosures are vanishing, data from RealtyTrac continues to show spikes in activity around the country. Years of backlogged foreclosures and increased motivation for banks to repossess could leave even more foreclosures up for grabs in the coming months. Investors searching for foreclosures should pay careful attention to newspaper listings and public records to find potential properties. Overall, off-market properties are not difficult to find, though they may require a little extra work.

Why Should You Invest In Real Estate?

You should consider investing in real estate after learning the various benefits this asset has to offer. Historically, real estate has performed well as an asset class. It has a positive relationship with gross domestic product (GDP), meaning as the economy grows so does the demand for real estate. Generally, the consistent demand offers real estate lower volatility when compared to other investment types. 

Real estate is a great option for diversifying an existing investment portfolio. The reason for this is because real estate has low correlation to other investment types thus offering some protections to investors with other asset types. Different types of real estate investing are associated with different levels of risk, so be sure to find the right investment strategy for your goals. 

It is also interesting to consider the potential leverage associated with investing in real estate. The process of buying property involves making a down payment and financing the rest of the sale price. As a result, you only pay for a small percentage of the property up front but you control the entire investment. This form of leverage is not available with other investment types, and can be used to further grow your investment portfolio. 

Summary

Several property types can yield high-profit margins for investors willing to put in the work. However, due to the wide variety of options available, many investors likely find themselves wondering what really is the best real estate investment. While this is a simple question, it does not have a simple answer. The best type of investment property will depend on many factors, and investors should be careful not to rule out any options when searching for potential deals.


Interested in learning more about today’s most lucrative real estate strategies?

Whether you’re brand new to investing, have closed a few deals, or are a seasoned investor— our new online real estate class reveals the best real estate strategies to get started with real estate investing in today’s market. Expert investor Than Merrill explains how these time-tested strategies can help you to profit from the current opportunities in real estate.

10 Cities Where Buyers Have the Best Chance of Negotiating 

Everyone’s heard about how high interest rates are making once-affordable homes nearly impossible to pencil out. And with few homes for sale across the country, and prices still historically high—even if they are coming down a little bit—potential buyers have been in a rough spot for most of 2022.

But there are some metros that offer some hope for home shoppers—places where they might be able to submit a lowball offer under the seller’s asking price. These are cities where savvy home shoppers would be wise to put in an offer below the asking price, insist on contingencies like home inspections, and even negotiate other parts of the deal that could potentially save them some serious cash.

Yes, these places do exist—and the Realtor.com® data team found them.

The places on the list are marked by big price swings over the past few years—but sharp declines in demand in the past few months. Prices in these real estate markets appear to be out of sync with the new realities of higher mortgage rates—hovering around 7%—and fewer out-of-town buyers coming in with larger and all-cash offers. More homes in these metros are piling up as they’re up for sale longer. And with fewer buyers, many sellers have been slashing prices.

“I do see a mismatch in pricing with [mortgage] rate increases as part of that landscape,” says George Ratiu, a senior economist and manager of economic research at Realtor.com. “Yes, they are emerging markets with promising economies. Yes, they are popular for newcomers. But are they possibly overpriced, given local earnings? It seems so.”

Monthly payments are up hundreds or even thousands of dollars more because of the spike in mortgage rates. Prices will eventually have to reflect that reality. That’s why it often doesn’t hurt to make an offer below the list price on a home that has been sitting on the market for a while; sellers who need to sell may be amenable to a compromise.

“It’s a really good time to make a low offer,” says Santa Cruz, CA, real estate agent Jason Madani, of Room Real Estate. “A lot of sellers have priced too high.”

To figure out where market conditions suggest sellers might be open to negotiations, we looked at several metrics for the 300 largest metropolitan areas. We identified areas that had above-average increases in the number of homes for sale; the number of days listings spend on the market; and the number of listings with price reductions. Then we ranked the areas based on where the median home price shot up the most over the past three years, but where prices have remained close to their peaks.

We selected one metro per state to ensure geographic diversity. Metros include the main city and surrounding towns, suburbs, and smaller urban areas.


1. Rocky Mount, NC

Median listing price: $275,000*

In the past few years, home prices have surged in Rocky Mount, a small city with growing biomedical pharmaceutical, manufacturing, and tech industries, about 45 miles east of Raleigh. The median home list price in the metro area more than doubled from $131,000 in October 2019, to a peak in September of $283,000, finally dipping a little in October.

Jay Hooks, a longtime real estate agent in the area with Moorefield Real Estate, says he’s never seen a surge in prices like this. And with the skyrocketing prices, came equally fever-pitched demand, he says.

“It was almost impossible to get a house on the market before you had an offer,” Hooks says.

Hooks says the area’s historically low price is what proved so attractive to people looking for more affordable housing during the COVID-19 pandemic. Many were able to work remotely at least part of the time. Prices are significantly lower than in the nearby Raleigh metro, where homes cost a median of $452,600 in October.

What that’s created, Hooks says, is an environment where sellers want to list for top dollar—even if that might not work to their advantage.

Hooks thinks the Rocky Mount market could see prices come down some, mostly due to the initial overpricing he sees. But the area’s proximity to Raleigh with a more rural lifestyle, should keep prices strong, he says.

More than half of those looking at Rocky Mount area homes on Realtor.com are from out of state, says Ratiu.

“So clearly a lot of outside dollars were driving those prices up,” he says.

2. East Stroudsburg, PA

Median listing price: $345,000

The pandemic widened the commute radius for home shoppers who no longer had to go into their offices five days a week—or at all. That gave areas that might have previously been too far from a big urban center a boost as they became more realistic alternatives to the bigger, more expensive cities.

Enter East Stroudsburg, about an hour and fifteen minutes west of New York City, in the center of the Poconos. This idyllic and historic getaway for East Coasters looking for a mountain retreat, known for its lakes and skiing, became a residential possibility for New Yorkers who had the flexibility to work farther from Manhattan. Realtor.com named the metro one of the most affordable vacation destinations earlier this year.

Nearly two-thirds of interest in the market’s listings comes from outside Pennsylvania, says Ratiu. Meanwhile, just 11% of page views are coming from local home shoppers.

Home prices surged during the pandemic, from around $185,000 for the median home, to a peak of almost $350,000 earlier this year. That’s been tough on locals as the area has long struggled with higher unemployment than the national average.

3. Concord, NH

Median listing price: $475,000

Concord has been a popular destination for Bostonians looking for a city close enough to make easy trips to the city, while enjoying the benefits of living in New Hampshire—notably the low taxes and more affordable real estate. That helped the capital of New Hampshire climb to the top of the Realtor.com hottest markets list in June.

However, recently, more sellers have been reducing prices to attract buyers as homes are now sitting on the market for longer.

Pamela Young, a local real estate and broker with eXp Realty, says she’s seen buyers who are finding a lower-than-list-price offer is now a possibility.

“I had a buyer up in the Concord area,” she says. “He was able to pick up a fixer-upper for $259,000, which was $20,000 lower than the price tag.”

Young says she’s put a strategy in place to help buyers find properties where the price can be negotiated down.

“I contact the seller’s agent and find out if they’ve had any offers,” she says. “If they have, we don’t stray too much from the asking price. If they haven’t, then we can make an offer below the asking price.”

4. Eau Claire, WI

Median listing price: $368,675

Straddling the Chippewa River, 90 minutes east of Minneapolis, Eau Claire is an artsy town and the self-proclaimed “horseradish capital of the world.” It’s also seen home prices rise quickly, like many other areas, over the course of the pandemic.

But in the six months between April and October, the portion of listings with a price reduction quadrupled. And the number of listings has doubled since February.

Alas, the median listing price is as high as it’s ever been. With prices beginning to drop between 5% and 10% in nearby Minneapolis, Racine, and Madison, Eau Claire could be poised to come down in response as buyers become more emboldened to ask for more discounts.

This updated, four-bedroom home on a corner lot has a remodeled kitchen with stainless appliances. Its asking price was recently reduced by $20,000, or about 8%, after four months on the market.

New construction isn’t immune to the trend, either. For example, this new three-bedroom home in southeast Eau Claire, which has been on the market for more than a year, has had its price come down multiple times. It’s now listed at $23,000 below the highest asking price in February.

5. Lakeland, FL

Median listing price: $359,900

Lakeland, named one of the best markets in 2019 for budget buyers and investors, became another popular pandemic destination.

The city, between Tampa and Orlando, saw prices increase from around $230,000 to nearly $370,000 in the past 2.5 years. However, the number of homes on the market in Lakeland has more than doubled in the past several months, introducing a lot of supply into the market quickly.

When there are more options for buyers, they have a lot more negotiating power. If one seller turns down a lower offer, they can move on to the next property.

In Lakeland, this large four-bedroom home on one-third of an acre was marked down $45,000—more than 10%—at the end of October, after two months on the market.

6. Elizabethtown, KY

Median listing price: $314,000

Prices have never been as high as right now in Elizabethtown, about 45 minutes south of Louisville. The median listing price in this next-door neighbor to the Fort Knox military installation has risen from around $200,000 two years ago, to around $315,000 in October.

In June, the median home was selling in less than three weeks. But as the market has cooled over the past few months, it’s taking closer to two months to sell, illustrating how demand has pulled back while interest rates have risen.

This three-bedroom home in need of renovation was pending sale only after two price reductions, adding up to $23,400 down from the original $143,400 asking price in July, or a 16.4% discount.

7. Kingston, NY

Median listing price: $489,950

Kingston, a small city on the Hudson River, has exploded as a getaway destination in recent years. The area, about 100 miles north of New York City, has seen an influx of boutiques, high-end restaurants, and art galleries appealing to second-home and weekend getaway seekers from the city.

As a result, in just three years the median home price has gone from $320,000 to right around $500,000. However, fears of a recession and soaring mortgage rates are leading many would-be vacation-home buyers and investors to hit the pause button. And since many locals cannot afford these higher prices, sellers might be more open to accepting lower offers.

In the summer, only 1 in every 15 active listings had a price reduction. Now, one-quarter of homes for sale have had a price reduction. That gives buyers more ammunition to ask for fair prices.

8. Santa Cruz, CA

Median listing price: $1,349,000

Even the uber-wealthy aren’t scooping up homes in Santa Cruz—an iconic, upscale California beach town on the northern tip of Monterey Bay—in the face of economic uncertainty and higher mortgage rates. As a result, the number of homes for sale has tripled since the beginning of the year.

At the same time, the number of listings that have been reduced has climbed from 1 in 10 to around 1 in 3.

“A lot of listings are just sitting there,” says Santa Cruz real estate agent Madani. “And they’re priced too high.”

He prefers to price homes low to drum up interest, which can lead to offers over the asking price. He recently listed a home for $650,000 that went on to sell for $780,000.

“Price it low enough to make it too good to be true,” he says.

9. Myrtle Beach, SC

Median listing price: $379,000

Even in more affordable Myrtle Beach, the beachside South Carolina golf haven and longtime vacation and retirement destination, homes aren’t selling like they were just a few months ago.

The number of listings on the market has nearly tripled since earlier this year, while prices have plunged. They’re down about 5% from nearly $400,000 in March.

This midcentury, three-bedroom home within walking distance to the beach has seen its price reduced several times, finally landing at $375,000, after being listed in June for $450,000. That amounts to $75,000, or almost 17%, off the listing price from just six months earlier.

Even newly constructed homes for sale have been steeply discounted, including this brand-new, three-bedroom home that’s now listed for 15% off the asking price just two months after it went on the market.

10. Columbia, MO

Median listing price: $349,950

Columbia, between Kansas City, MO, and St. Louis, may be best known as the home of the University of Missouri, the first university founded west of the Mississippi River. But it’s getting a reputation for its fast-rising home prices.

List prices in the fourth-largest city in Missouri spiked from $230,000 just before the COVID-19 pandemic began, to now nearly $350,000. And that’s despite the typical home now sitting on the market for the longest time in two years.

Now with the number of homes for sale more than double what it was in early 2022, the area could be ripe for offers below the recent peaks.

For home shoppers in Columbia, discounts are already easy to find. They include the $20,000 price reduction on this classically styled three-bedroom home near the Bonne View Nature Sanctuary, and the $30,000 discount on this brand-new three-bedroom home on the outskirts of Columbia’s city limits, whose price was reduced just weeks after being listed.

https://www.realtor.com/news/trends/beat-sticker-shock-where-buyers-have-the-best-chance-of-negotiating-home-prices-way-down/?identityID=62d359dee0837a01d8cbc136&MID=2022_1118_Weekly_NL&RID=25623090222&cid=eml_promo_Marketing_NonPRSL_WeeklyNL_cons.15921802_2022_1118_Weekly_NL-article3-blogs_trends

Commercial Real Estate Financing Basics You Can’t Live Without 

If you feel ready to enter the niche market of commercial real estate investing, now is the perfect time to develop an understanding of commercial real estate financing basics to determine if this unique industry is a good fit for you. Use the information below as your commercial real estate financing basics guide, and before you know it, you’ll have a better understanding of how commercial property loans differ from residential loans, the different types of loans and lenders that are available, and a broad overview of how commercial real estate financing works.

What Are Commercial Property Loans?

Commercial property loans are mortgages specifically delegated to purchasers of commercial properties.

Properties are considered commercial if they produce income and are used for business purposes only. A common example of a commercial property is a retail or an office space through which a business is operated. To acquire such a property, an investor can select from several commercial real estate financing options, but should be prepared to guarantee the mortgage via a lien, or more simply, collateral. If the investor fails to meet the commercial property loan’s repayment terms, the creditor reserves the right to seize the property. Experts at HostPapa suggest that “developers, trusts, funds, and corporations are the most common recipients of commercial real estate loans. The loan terms span from 5 to 20 years, with an amortization period that is longer than the loan duration”.

It is also important to note that commercial property loans are made out to business entities and not individuals. In other words, financing commercial real estate usually requires the formation of a business entity, such as an s-corporation or a limited liability company.

Anthony Martin, the founder of Choice Mutual, says that “the main difference between residential and commercial loans is what they’re for. For example, commercial loans are for business properties, multiple investment properties (surpassing 5 -10–depending on the lenders you had before), and other specialty properties. In contrast, residential properties are meant for personal properties”.

Commercial vs. Residential Loans

While residential loans are typically assigned to individual borrowers, commercial loans are typically granted to business entities. Residential loans require high loan-to-value ratios of up to 100%, while commercial loan-to-value rations range within 65% – 80%. In addition, commercial loans range from 5 to 20 years, while the most popular residential loan is a 30 year fixed mortgage. 

Commercial Real Estate Financing Options

Understanding commercial real estate financing basics requires a working knowledge of existing commercial property financing options, and being able to identify which option might work best for you. Commercial property loans will not only help finance the property, but can also help fund any construction projects as needed. Also, investors can leverage commercial property financing to help keep properties fully operational and maintained so that they may be fully leased.

The following are several commercial real estate financing options that are offered by various financial entities, including banks, private lenders, insurance companies, pension funds, and the U.S. Small Business Administration:

The following are several commercial real estate financing options that are offered by various financial entities, including banks, private lenders, insurance companies, pension funds, and the U.S. Small Business Administration:

  • SBA 7A Loan: The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) offers some of the least expensive loans for investing in commercial real estate and guarantees repayment of a portion of the loan. SBA-backed loans help the borrower by increasing credibility and reducing risk for the lender. 7A loans work best for smaller projects and are the quickest and easiest of the SBA loan programs. Although 7A loans have slightly higher interest rates than SBA 504 loans, they are the SBA’s most popular loan option.
  • SBA 504 Loan: As mentioned above, loans backed by the Small Business Administration are favored by lenders. The 504 loan program works best for larger investment projects, such as those valued over $1 million. The investor must put down 10 percent of the loan amount as the down payment, while 40 percent of the loan is sourced from an SBA Certified Development Company. The remaining 50 percent is borrowed from the lender.
  • Conventional Bank Loan: A majority of commercial real estate loans are made by banks, who prefer to lend to entities with strong credit histories. Individuals with a credit score of at least 660 and are working with mid-to-large-sized projects will find conventional bank loans as a viable commercial real estate financing option. Bank loans offer competitive interest rates and do not require the property to be occupied by the owner. However, most bank loans require a 20 percent down payment and oftentimes will charge a penalty if the loan is paid off early.
  • Hard Money Loan: For investors looking for a quick solution to commercial real estate financing may look to a hard money loan. Hard money lenders usually offer short-term loans at high-interest rates, and evaluate the loan based on the perceived value of the property and not on the borrower’s credit history. Investors will often utilize hard money loans to quickly finance deals in the interim while negotiating a longer-term bank loan. Because of this, hard money loans are also referred to as “bridge loans.”
  • Online Marketplace Loan: Sometimes referred to as “soft money loans,” online marketplaces now help to match borrowers with private investors who help finance commercial properties for a return. This type of loan is referred to as a soft money loan because interest rates are still higher than conventional bank loans but are lower than loans from hard money lenders. Online marketplaces usually match borrowers with shorter-term loans ranging from six months to a few years.
  • Joint Venture Loan: In cases in which an investor cannot obtain commercial real estate financing, or in cases where it is unappealing to bear risk solely, pursuing a joint venture may be the best option. Two or more properties can apply for financing via a joint venture loan, and involved parties will equally share the risks and returns in the commercial property. The joint venture loan ties the parties together solely around the specific property and does not require the entities to enter into a true real estate partnership.

How Do Commercial Real Estate Loans Work?

Commercial real estate loans work differently from residential loans in that they are solely utilized to finance income-producing properties through which businesses are operated. While individual borrowers can apply for traditional residential loans, investors normally have to establish a business entity, such as an LLC, to qualify for a commercial real estate loan. To secure the loan request, lenders will also require commercial property borrowers to put up the property as a lien or collateral. If the borrower were to ever default on their mortgage payments, the lender could seize the commercial property.

Creditworthiness is a common factor between commercial property loans and residential loans. Still, lenders will also closely examine the property’s potential income production when deciding whether to approve a loan request when it comes to commercial real estate.

Although commercial real estate loans may be associated with a higher risk than residential mortgages,lenders are incentivized by the potential revenue to be made off of commercial properties. For example, properties that can serve as a hotel, event venue, or house multiple businesses promise to attract wealthy tenants. In return, lenders can expect to earn a portion of the revenue made by commercial property tenants.

How Can I Get A Loan For A Commercial Property With No Money Down?

You can get a loan for a commercial property with no money down by utilizing a variety of financing methods, such as a purchase money mortgage, an investing partner, or a hard money lender. Investors who have focused their careers on residential real estate may have shied away from commercial properties simply due to the perception that the associated risks and costs are great or that the down payment is prohibitive. However, by familiarizing themselves with commercial real estate financing basics, investors should find that commercial properties are not inaccessible.

Suppose an investor cannot afford the down payment required by certain commercial real estate financing options. In that case, they can find an investing partner who is willing to provide the funds required to qualify for a loan, such as a traditional bank loan. However, it should be noted that the property should promise attractive returns for the investment to be considered worthwhile for a partner.

Another viable option is going through a hard money lender. Bridge loans can help investors secure short-term funding for a down payment so that they may negotiate a longer-term loan through a more traditional lender. However, borrowers should beware that hard money lenders usually provide loans with high-interest rates.

Finally, investors can also explore purchase money mortgages as a possible way to finance a commercial deal with no money down. Also known as seller-financed deals, purchase money mortgages come into play when a seller is willing to offer a loan directly to the borrower to purchase the property. This option can benefit both parties, as flexible repayment terms and rates can be negotiated. However, the borrower will risk repossession by the seller if they fail to make mortgage payments.

What Is The Interest Rate On Commercial Real Estate?

The interest rate on commercial real estate varies significantly based on the type of loan that the borrower chooses to elect. Loans backed by the Small Business Association tend to have the lowest interest rates. For example, the SBA 7A interest rate varies between 5.5 and 6.75 percent, while the 504 loan ranges between 3..5 to 6 percent. Conventional bank loans offer fixed or variable interest rates, typically between the 5 to 7 percent range. Hard money loans from private investors come in with the highest interest rates on the market, typically between 10 to 18 percent. Hard money loans can be fixed or variable and have the shortest loan terms.

Recouse Vs. Non-Recourse Loans

As mentioned above, commercial loans will need to be secured with collateral. There are two main routes to take: recourse or non-recourse loans. A recourse loan, more commonly called a personal guarantee, is when an investor uses other assets as collateral for the debt. For example, the loan could be secured with a personal liability that if the property goes out of business you will make monthly repayments. 

Alternatively, many commercial loans are secured by the properties themselves through a non-recourse loan. If the borrower defaults on a non-recourse loan, the lender can seize the asset itself. According to the terms of this loan, the lender can not secure additional money or assets from the borrower. 

It may sound preferable to choose a non-recourse loan, but depending on how long you have been in business the lender may require another form of collateral. If you are a new real estate investor or have a less than stellar financial background, the lender may need additional security before financing the property. Speak with your preferred lender to evaluate your options in regards to recourse vs. non-recourse loans. 

Loan Repayment Terms

Commercial real estate financing repayment periods commonly range from 5 to 20 years. The amortization period is usually longer than the term of the loan. For example, if you have a commercial loan for a term of 10 years with an amortization period of 30 years, you would make payments for 10 years of an amount based on the loan being paid off over 30 years, followed by a final payment of the entire remaining balance on the loan.

How long the commercial real estate loan term is and the amortization period affects the rate the lender will charge you. Depending on your credit, commercial real estate financing terms can be negotiable. Keep in mind that the longer the loan, the higher the interest rate will be.

Important Loan Ratios

In determining commercial real estate financing, lenders consider the loan-to-value ratio (LTV) and the debt-service coverage ratio (DSCR). It is important to know these ratios as they will determine your financing rates and loan size. Here is a brief overview of the two ratios:

  • Loan-To-Value-Ratio: The loan-to-value ratio (LTV) measures the value of a loan against the value of the property. LTV is calculated by dividing the amount of the loan by its purchase price. For example, the LTV for a $80,000 loan on a $100,000 property would be 80% since $80,000 ÷ $100,000 = 0.8.Those with lower LTVs will qualify for better financing rates for commercial real estate loans than borrowers who have higher LTVs. With more equity in the property, it is less risky, according to the lender.
  • Debt-To-Service-Ratio: The debt-service coverage ratio (DSCR) compares a property’s annual net operating income (NOI) to its annual mortgage debt service. The ratio measures the property’s ability to service its own debt. You calculate the DSCR by dividing the NOI by the annual debt service.For example, a property that has $100,000 in NOI and $80,000 in annual mortgage debt service would have a DSCR of 1.25 since $100,000 ÷ $80,000 = 1.25. The DSCR will influence your lender’s maximum loan size, which will be based on the property’s cash flow.A DSCR should be more than 1; otherwise, the property has negative cash flow. For example, a DSCR of .9 means that there is not enough (only 90%) in NOI to cover annual debt service. Commonly, commercial real estate lenders seek a higher DSCR to ensure cash flow.

Commercial Real Estate Financing Calculator

To calculate a commercial real estate financing scenario, an investor will need to obtain the possible loan amount, interest rate, amortization term, and any balloon payments if applicable. The loan amount represents the total principal on the commercial loan, while the interest rate varies greatly depending on the lender type. Commercial loan terms typically range between five to 20 years, whereas the amortization period can be longer than the loan term. The balloon payments come into play when the borrower makes payments throughout the duration of the loan term but is then required to make a final payment on any outstanding amount on the principal. Although this may sound extremely complicated, luckily, there are many online financing calculators available, such as on Mortgage Calculator.

5 Best Banks For Commercial Real Estate Loans

If you decide to pursue a commercial real estate loan through a conventional bank, you will likely become overwhelmed at the number of options. Just like residential real estate loans, there are a mix of online and brick-and-mortar banks to choose from — each offering unique pros and cons to help you decide. Deciding on a loan provider will come down to your own personal finances and business goals. That being said, here are five of the best banks for a commercial loan to help you get started: 

  • U.S. Bank: U.S. Bank offers several types of commercial loans, including small business loans. Interest rates vary between five and seven percent, with variable and fixed options. Many investors choose U.S. Bank for long-term commercial financing needs and for occupied properties. U.S. Bank has physical branches in 26 states but offers mortgages nationwide.
  • Wells Fargo: Wells Fargo is a great option for investors looking to avoid a “years in business” requirement when applying for a commercial loan. With loan terms up to 20 years for larger projects, Wells Fargo offers a number of different options. Average interest rates are between five and 10 percent and the target loan-to-value ratio is roughly 80 percent.
  • JPMorgan Chase: JPMorgan Chase advertises itself as the leading multifamily loan provider, with a maximum loan of up to $25 million on multifamily projects. A property must have at least five units to be considered multifamily. There is no time in business requirement, and interest rates range from five to nine percent.
  • Bank Of America: Bank of America offers commercial financing, and additional options for remodeling down the road. Their website boasts interest rates as low as three percent; and loan terms can range from 10 to 15 years. Bank of America also offers loan origination discounts for Veterans.
  • SmartBiz: If you are in the market for an SBA7(a) commercial loan, consider SmartBiz for your next project. Interest rates range between 4.7 and 7 percent, and down payment requirements are between 10 an 30 percent of the purchase price. Note that SmartBiz is an entirely online loan provider.

Summary

With these commercial real estate financing basics in mind, investors should feel better equipped to approach their first commercial deal. Commercial real estate is a unique niche that differs greatly from traditional residential real estate and should not be taken lightly. However, those who feel prepared to tackle this sector of the real estate industry have the potential to enjoy a unique experience and an equally unique set of rewards.

April Rental Report: Sun Belt Metros Drive Sustained Growth in Nationwide Rents 

April Rental Report: Sun Belt Metros Drive Sustained Growth in Nationwide Rents

April Highlights

  • Rent has reached yet another high ($1,827) in Realtor.com data history, as growth continues nationwide at a pace in line with the last four months (+16.7%).
  • Studio units continue to see rents increase at a faster rate than larger units, reversing the pattern from last year, particularly in the largest metros like New York City (29.1%), Los Angeles (23.2%), and Chicago (21.5%).
  • Rent increases are most pronounced in Sun Belt metros, especially ones where housing demand from outsiders is growing faster than the supply of rental units built in recent years.

Nationwide Rents Continue Rapid Growth, but Pace Has Leveled Off 

The median rent in the 50 largest US metropolitan areas reached a new record high in April: $1,827. Rent has been steadily increasing since January 2021, following the general trend in housing prices and rebounding from a dip in the first year of the pandemic. The rental supply has been strained in recent months, as evidenced by the national rental vacancy rate holding below 6% in each of the last three quarters. Landlords with fewer available units are able to charge higher rents, and at the same time, for-sale home prices continue to climb. Today’s renters are left with few options but to pay these rising rents. 

Figure 1: Year-over-Year Rent Trend

One possible signal of relief from this surge can be found by tracking year-over-year rent growth. April’s rents were up 16.7% from April 2021. This marks the third consecutive month in which year-over-year rent growth has slowed, albeit modestly, from the 17.1% peak this January. Still, this level of rent increase is severe. If annual rent growth were to remain around 17% through the summer, the national median rent would eclipse $2,000 this August.

Studio Rents are Growing the Fastest

Studio unit rents increased at the fastest pace again this month, growing 17.2% from April 2021 compared to 15.9% for 2-bedroom units and 15.6% for 1-bedroom units. Studios have seen the most year-over-year rent growth every month so far this year, rebounding later than larger rentals from the price decreases in late 2021 and early 2021. 1- and 2-bedroom rents both decreased in year-over-year growth from March into April, driving the general slowdown. Studio apartments are less costly and generally attract renters with more flexible living arrangements, so they were more easily vacated early in the pandemic and are now in higher demand for those looking to move into their own place or to return to major city centers. Studio rents in New York City (29.1%), Los Angeles (23.2%), and Chicago (21.5%) all grew at a faster year-over-year rate than the national average.

Table 1: National Rents by Unit Size

Unit SizeMedian RentRent YoYRent Change – 2 years
Overall$1,82716.7%21.0%
Studio$1,49917.2%15.3%
1-bed$1,67515.6%19.7%
2-bed$2,55215.9%23.7%

Figure 2: National Rent by Unit Size Trend

Rent Growth Concentrated in Sun Belt

Leading the charge in nationwide rents are three Florida metros. Rent in Miami was up 51.6% from April of last year. Orlando (32.9%) and Tampa (27.8%) followed close behind. Recent analysis of cross-market search demand has shown that homebuyers are increasingly interested in relocating to the Sun Belt, and this migration trend has made its way into the rental market as well. 

Along with the top three rent growth metros in Florida, southern and southwestern cities like San Diego (25.6%), Las Vegas (24.8%), Austin (24.7%), Nashville (24.1%), Raleigh (23.9%) and Jacksonville (23.3%) are among the top ten markets where rent has grown the fastest year-over-year. Conversely, the chillier climates of Pittsburgh (4.2%), Detroit (4.5%), and Minneapolis (5.5%) have contributed to these metro areas landing in the bottom three for rent growth. In the case of Minneapolis, a supply-side factor is also in play, as the growth in the number of units permitted for construction in building projects of five units or more has far outpaced the national average over the past four years. Meanwhile, Miami has trailed the national growth in new multifamily construction, and the lack of housing options for new arrivals to the area has added fuel to the rent growth fire.

___________________________________________________________________________

Rental Data – 50 Largest Metropolitan Areas – April 2022

MetroOverall Median RentOverall Rent YYStudio Median RentStudio Rent YY1-br Median Rent1-br Rent YY2-br Median Rent2-br Rent YY
Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA$1,82916.7%$1,66517.9%$1,70017.4%$2,03517.7%
Austin-Round Rock, TX$1,80024.7%$1,45025.0%$1,65226.7%$1,95118.5%
Baltimore-Columbia-Towson, MD$1,80012.5%$1,48512.5%$1,70112.1%$1,90011.0%
Birmingham-Hoover, AL$1,1897.8%$1,07311.7%$1,1207.2%$1,2838.3%
Boston-Cambridge-Newton, MA-NH$2,82522.7%$2,40027.4%$2,60018.3%$3,19023.9%
Buffalo-Cheektowaga-Niagara Falls, NY$1,2907.5%$1,1252.7%$1,1253.0%$1,4457.8%
Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia, NC-SC$1,67519.5%$1,56321.8%$1,58821.3%$1,84017.3%
Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN-WI$1,92313.5%$1,58021.5%$1,88013.9%$2,1609.6%
Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN$1,4168.9%$1,20013.2%$1,3608.8%$1,5768.4%
Cleveland-Elyria, OH$1,40910.7%$9504.4%$1,3196.2%$1,54014.1%
Columbus, OH$1,27511.1%$1,09510.1%$1,20011.9%$1,3909.4%
Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington, TX$1,65521.3%$1,37518.5%$1,50822.4%$1,91820.3%
Denver-Aurora-Lakewood, CO$1,97015.3%$1,60014.7%$1,84816.0%$2,33116.3%
Detroit-Warren-Dearborn, MI$1,3854.5%$1,0747.9%$1,1656.4%$1,5454.6%
Hartford-West Hartford-East Hartford, CT$1,6267.5%$1,49732.5%$1,4402.9%$1,95511.7%
Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land, TX$1,43513.1%$1,34411.6%$1,31013.4%$1,60912.7%
Indianapolis-Carmel-Anderson, IN$1,2378.9%$1,0508.4%$1,1308.2%$1,37410.9%
Jacksonville, FL$1,60023.3%$1,43042.3%$1,48420.8%$1,75724.4%
Kansas City, MO-KS$1,23310.6%$1,0149.1%$1,11513.0%$1,46511.3%
Las Vegas-Henderson-Paradise, NV$1,64924.8%$1,31513.4%$1,51925.5%$1,75022.3%
Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA$3,01620.9%$2,27923.2%$2,76723.9%$3,44518.2%
Louisville/Jefferson County, KY-IN$1,20413.6%$1,00512.0%$1,13512.9%$1,3598.6%
Memphis, TN-MS-AR$1,40922.0%$1,13910.6%$1,36221.2%$1,56122.6%
Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach, FL$2,80051.6%$2,45045.9%$2,46245.7%$3,15054.8%
Milwaukee-Waukesha-West Allis, WI$1,5259.3%$1,2006.2%$1,4289.8%$1,75010.7%
Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington, MN-WI$1,5805.5%$1,2454.2%$1,4955.5%$1,9254.4%
Nashville-Davidson–Murfreesboro–Franklin, TN$1,76024.2%$1,74922.7%$1,61820.3%$1,91426.9%
New Orleans-Metairie, LA$1,79812.4%$1,30028.4%$1,5906.3%$2,0207.8%
New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA$2,84518.0%$2,58129.1%$2,57312.2%$3,16613.1%
Oklahoma City, OK$98513.0%$91330.6%$91614.6%$1,05011.2%
Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford, FL$1,92732.9%$1,63023.7%$1,77230.9%$2,19036.9%
Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington, PA-NJ-DE-MD$1,7757.6%$1,4132.0%$1,6794.1%$1,9756.1%
Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale, AZ$1,91520.1%$1,42920.4%$1,65020.7%$2,22514.7%
Pittsburgh, PA$1,4754.2%$1,26112.4%$1,4505.7%$1,592-2.0%
Portland-Vancouver-Hillsboro, OR-WA$1,76412.1%$1,4009.8%$1,71011.2%$2,04911.8%
Providence-Warwick, RI-MA$2,20025.4%$1,4684.9%$1,76513.5%$2,57529.9%
Raleigh, NC$1,61523.9%$1,45822.1%$1,48524.5%$1,79121.3%
Richmond, VA$1,43517.0%$1,14715.0%$1,30518.1%$1,55916.4%
Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, CA$2,72912.3%$1,400-6.7%$2,18414.5%$3,00013.3%
Rochester, NY$1,3209.5%$9808.6%$1,26513.6%$1,4057.7%
Sacramento–Roseville–Arden-Arcade, CA$2,04510.1%$1,84511.5%$1,9017.6%$2,23010.9%
San Antonio-New Braunfels, TX$1,38519.4%$1,24216.4%$1,26420.1%$1,59921.0%
San Diego-Carlsbad, CA$3,12525.6%$2,44723.1%$2,76922.5%$3,50023.5%
San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA$3,00011.1%$2,35015.6%$2,75011.4%$3,5009.5%
San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA$3,16519.9%$2,49023.9%$2,92018.8%$3,54518.2%
Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA$2,16517.2%$1,79923.4%$2,14516.2%$2,63318.4%
St. Louis, MO-IL$1,3318.7%$1,0006.1%$1,27210.8%$1,4626.1%
Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater, FL$2,16327.8%$1,98928.0%$1,89628.0%$2,39026.6%
Virginia Beach-Norfolk-Newport News, VA-NC$1,53113.4%$1,34310.6%$1,43610.6%$1,66912.8%
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria,DC-VA-MD-WV$2,11512.4%$1,72214.1%$2,01712.2%$2,49910.6%

Methodology

Rental data as of April for units advertised as for-rent on Realtor.com®. Rental units include apartment communities as well as private rentals (condos, townhomes, single-family homes). All units were studio, 1-bedroom, or 2-bedroom units. We use communities that reliably report data each month within the top 50 largest metropolitan areas. National rents were calculated by averaging the medians of the 50 largest metropolitan areas.Realtor.com® began publishing regular monthly rental trends reports in October 2020 with data history stretching back to March 2019.

Note: With the release of its February 2022 rent report, Realtor.com® incorporated a new and improved methodology for capturing and reporting rental listing trends and metrics. The new methodology is expected to yield a cleaner and more consistent measurement of rental listings and trends at both the national and local level. The methodology has been adjusted to better account for cases where new or missing data may not be completely at random. Most areas across the country will see minor changes with a smaller handful of areas seeing larger updates. As a result of these changes, the rental data released since March 2022 will not be directly comparable with previous releases (files downloaded before March 2022) and Realtor.com® economics blog posts. However, future data releases, including historical data, will consistently apply the new methodology.

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Mixed-use Loans: What They Are and How They Work 

Real estate investors use mixed-use loans to finance buildings that are used for a combined purpose. Mixed-use buildings are zoned for multiple uses, including residential, commercial, industrial, or institutional. Mixed-use loans can be short-term or long-term, with terms ranging between six months and 30 years.

Any building with at least two units of different zoning qualifies for a mixed-use loan. Mixed-use loans include short-term hard money loans and private money loans. The loans can be permanent construction, government-backed, or commercial loans.

A mixed-use building has at least one commercial and one residential unit. For example, a funeral home with a living space in the back for the funeral director to live in would be considered mixed-use. Also, a multistory property with a retail shop below and residential units above would be considered mixed-use.

In addition, if you have a property that makes less than 40% of its income off the commercial spaces and has five or more total residential units, you may qualify for a multifamily loan or apartment loan.

One of the top Small Business Administration (SBA) lenders nationally is Live Oak Bank. Experienced loan specialists can help you find the right mixed-use loan for your business. You can fill out a questionnaire on Live Oak’s website, and a specialist will be in touch to get the process started. Visit Live Oak Bank’s website for more information.

Types of Mixed-use Loans

Mixed-use loans usually fall into one of three categories: commercial mixed-use loans, government-backed mixed-use loans, and short-term mixed-use loans. Government-backed mixed-use loans offered by the SBA or the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) are the most common types of mixed-use loans. Each loan type has slightly different requirements, terms, and costs.

1. Commercial Mixed-use Loans

Interest Rates5% to 7%, variable or fixed
Maximum Loan Amount$25 million
Term15 to 30 years
Average Down Payment25%
Loan-to-Value(LTV) ratio75%
Closing Costs2% to 5% of amount borrowed
Lender Fees1% to 3%
Time to Funding30 to 45 days

Commercial mixed-use loans have repayment terms between 15 and 30 years, with commercial real estate loan rates starting as low as 5%. Buildings must be in good condition to qualify. However, unlike government-backed mixed-use loans, commercial mixed-use loans don’t require the building to be owner-occupied. Funding times are quicker than a government-backed loan, with funding in less than 45 days.

You can find commercial mixed-use loans at most portfolio lendersMuevoinvestments  has a wide variety of lending options, including several construction options, like fix-and-flip, fix-to-rent, and a traditional construction loan. Fix-and-flip and construction loans go up to a maximum of $3 million. The value-add bridge maximum amount borrowed is $20 million. Terms and percentages vary among the products.

Lima One Capital is an excellent choice for both new and experienced investors. Minimum credit scores range between 600 and 660. Check out its website for more information and to begin the application process.

Who Commercial Mixed-use Loans Are Right For

Commercial mixed-use loans are the right choice for the following investors:

  • Real estate investors looking for a mix of commercial and residential tenants
  • Business owners looking for a two-unit live/workspace
  • Business owners looking to occupy a larger building and also act as a landlord
  • Real estate investors who might not want to live in the mixed-use development
  • Real estate developers looking to construct a mixed-use development
  • Real estate investors willing to forgo a government guarantee and lower rate to get funding more rapidly

2. Government-backed Mixed-use Loans

Interest Rates4.75% to 10%
Maximum Loan Amount$14 million
Term10 to 30 years
Average Down Payment20%
LTV Ratio80% to 90%
Closing Costs2% to 5%
Lender Fees1% to 5% of loan amount plus guarantee fee
Time to Funding60 to 90 days

Government-backed mixed-use loans include loans from the SBA, including 7(a) and 504 loans, and the USDA, including Rural Development business loans. Interest rates are usually lower on government-backed loans due to the SBA or USDA backing. However, they have more stringent requirements, including requiring the building to be at least 51% occupied by the owner of the property. These loans also may take 90 days or longer to fund.

SBA 504 loans are good choices because they offer up to $14 million in financing for up to 25 years. In addition, SBA 504 loans allow the borrower to go up to 90% loan to value, reducing the down payment compared to a traditional loan.

An SBA 504 loan is a combination of two loans: one comes from a lender and one from a nonprofit lender known as a community development corporation (CDC). Both loans are closed simultaneously.

Our guide to SBA 504 loans goes through the requirements and qualifications needed for the loan. Important guidelines to remember before applying for an SBA 504 loan for commercial real estate include:

  • Property must be owner-occupied
  • Jobs must be created
  • Business must have a net worth of less than $15 million

Muevo can match you with an SBA 504 lender that can help you get the right commercial real estate loan. Check out its website for more information.

Who Government-backed Mixed-use Loans Are Right For

Government-backed mixed-use loans are the right choice for the following investors:

  • Real estate investors looking for a mix of commercial and residential tenants
  • Business owners looking for a two-unit live/workspace
  • Business owners looking to occupy a larger building and also act as a landlord
  • Real estate investors who want to live in the mixed-use development
  • Real estate developers looking to construct a mixed-use development
  • Investors willing to wait up to 90 days for funding to secure a lower rate

3. Short-term Mixed-use Loans

Interest Rates5% to 16%
Maximum Loan Amount$20 million
TermSix months to six years
Average Down Payment10%
LTV Ratio90%
Closing Costs2% to 5%
Lender Fees1% to 5%
Time to Funding15 to 45 days

Short-term mixed-use loans come in different varieties, including commercial bridge loans and hard money loans. They can be used by borrowers with lower credit scores or for properties in disrepair that won’t qualify for other types of commercial real estate loans. They also allow you to compete with all-cash buyers due to the rapid funding time. Usually, these loans are refinanced into a permanent loan once the term is up.

If you’re looking for a commercial bridge loan, Muevoinvestments  provides commercial bridge loans, construction loans, and SBA 504 loans. Loans through Muevo range between $3 million and $25 million. Preapproval is promised on its website in as soon as three days. While the turnaround time usually falls between 45 and 60 days, it can be as little as 10 to 30 days.

If you’re looking for a hard money loan, they can be difficult to find. Muevoinvestments  is one example of a company that does provide hard money mixed-use loans.

Who Short-term Mixed-use Loans Are Right For

Short-term mixed-use loans are the right choice for investors that:

  • Need to compete with all-cash buyers
  • Are looking to purchase and renovate a mixed-use building
  • Want to season a mixed-use building with tenants
  • Don’t qualify for the stricter qualifications of a permanent loan
  • Want to purchase a building in disrepair

Pros and Cons of Mixed-use Developments

Pros

  • Less risk to the borrower: Because you’re investing in a building with multiple types of uses, you won’t risk losing as much money if you lose a tenant. You’ll still have income from other tenants or renters.
  • More convenient for consumers: Mixed-use properties also allow consumers to frequent different types of businesses in the same property, saving them travel time and money.
  • Mixed-use can be more environmentally friendly: Because these properties can be built in a denser location, it uses less area, meaning less land dedicated to commercial properties. This limits urban sprawl. It also allows customers to walk between mixed-use properties, reducing automobile pollution.

Cons

  • Deals can be complex: Depending on the type of mixed-use loan, these deals can be complicated and time-consuming, with some of them taking upwards of a year to complete.
  • Properties can be hard to manage: Because these properties can contain multiple types of businesses and numerous business owners, keeping everyone happy can be a real challenge. It might take several people to manage a mixed-use facility.
  • Loans can be harder to find: Depending on where you live, mixed-use loans might be hard to find. The more rural the community, the less likely you’ll find a local bank willing to take on a mixed-use loan.

Bottom Line

Mixed-use loans allow borrowers to finance the purchase, renovation, or construction of mixed-use developments. Mixed-use loans are usually commercial, government-backed, or short-term. Each type of loan has its own benefits, and you should consider the short-term and long-term plans for the development before starting to shop for loans. It’s also important to understand the benefits and drawbacks of mixed-use loans before planning a mixed-use development.

Live Oak Bank is a good choice for a mixed-use loan for your business. You can fill out a questionnaire on Live Oak’s website, and a specialist will be in touch to get the process started. Visit Live Oak Bank’s website for more information.

Small Business Lines of Credit: Types, Requirements & Rates 

A small business line of credit is one of the most common forms of financing available: a lender extends credit, and a borrower can draw as much as needed up to a designated limit. Once the lender receives repayment of the borrowed funds, it replenishes the credit line so the business owner can draw from it again. This revolving credit line thus acts much like a credit card.

Business lines of credit fall into three categories: unsecured, secured, and personal. Lenders have varying requirements for each, with the biggest differentiator being the need for collateral like real estate or equipment with secured lines of credit. Lenders also offer unsecured lines of credit that don’t require collateral. While unsecured lines of credit are easier to qualify for, they also have shorter repayment terms and typically charge higher interest rates. The best business lines of credit allow higher flexibility, offer competitive rates, and let borrowers draw money as needed.

Who a Small Business Line of Credit Is Right For

small business line of credit is a great financing tool for businesses as it can be used for ongoing expenses. It may also be used to smooth out cash flow in slow seasons or to help expand a business.

Small business lines of credit can be used by:

  • Small businesses with recurring expenses: Business owners use small business lines of credit to cover expenses like rent, utilities, and payroll. Short-term business lines of credit are a popular option.
  • Companies planning for an emergency: Financial advisors recommend that business owners apply for financing before a need arises to get better rates and terms.
  • Seasonal businesses: Businesses such as restaurants rely on lines of credit to cover expenses in the off-season and to buy inventory in advance of their busiest times of the year.
  • Businesses seeking some type of equipment purchase: Equipment with short lifespans or items that cannot be claimed for depreciation can be purchased with business lines of credit. If you’re looking to purchase vehicles or larger capital equipment, an equipment loan with a fixed term arguably makes more sense.
  • Startups and newer businesses seeking to inject capital: Startups and businesses in the early stages of development or expansion sometimes require the owners to inject some liquidity. Business owners can get low rates by using their homes as collateral for a home equity line of credit (HELOC), and startup founders can get personal lines of credit.

Types of Small Business Lines of Credit

Once a business owner identifies why they need a line of credit, they should determine what type of line to get. Unsecured lines of credit don’t require collateral but have short repayment terms and higher rates than the other options. Secured lines of credit require collateral but offer lower rates and longer repayment terms.

Unsecured Small Business Line of Credit

Unsecured small business lines of credit have short repayment terms and charge higher rates than secured options. However, this type of funding is useful in an emergency and has much lower requirements for qualification. Businesses can often apply online.

Types of unsecured lines of credit include:

  • Short-term: This type of line of credit has repayment terms that last up to two years, with weekly or monthly payments. Funding amounts are $250,000 or lower and are best used by small businesses or for recurring expenses such as inventory.
  • Medium-term: This is a small business line of credit that offers up to five years for repayment and funding up to $500,000. Business owners use these loans for seasonal expenses and variable-cost projects. Banks and some alternative lenders offer this type of line of credit.
  • Business credit card: Credit cards are the most common form of personal and business financing. Qualification standards are often easier compared to secured lines of credit, and credit limits can be up to $100,000. Business credit cards are a good option in a small business financing toolkit. Many cards offer rewards to small business owners for spending.

Unsecured Small Business Line of Credit Requirements

TypeMinimum Credit ScoreShortest Time in BusinessMinimum Annual Revenue
Short-term5506 months$100,000
Medium-term6801 year$100,000
Business credit cards600No minimumNo minimum

Short-term lines of credit have fairly relaxed requirements for financing, making them a viable option for business owners with low credit scores and cash flow issues. However, these products carry higher interest rates and lower credit limits than secured lines of credit.

Unsecured Small Business Line of Credit Rates and Fees

TypeAPR RangeOrigination FeeMaintenance Fee
Short-term15% to 80%Up to 2%None
Medium-term10% to 30%Up to 2%None
Business credit cardsUp to 30%NoneUp to $150 per year

Business owners should note that while short-term funding carries a higher annual percentage rate (APR), the total cost of borrowing also factors in how long it takes to repay debt. A short-term draw repaid in one year at 25% APR will cost less than a medium-term draw repaid over two years with a 15% APR.

Unsecured Small Business Line of Credit Terms

TypeMaximum Credit LimitLongest Repayment TermFastest Speed of Funding
Short-term$250,00024 months1 day
Medium-term$500,00072 months2 weeks
Business credit cards$100,000Indefinite1 week

Funding speed and credit limit are two important factors to consider when choosing a lender, followed by how long you’re allowed to repay borrowed funds. When business owners encounter a funding emergency, they need funds right away and can’t risk only being approved for part of what they need. Business owners should anticipate that, in most cases, a business will qualify for less than the amount they apply for.

A great unsecured line of credit is available with MuevoLoans. Muevo Loans offers lines of credit of up to $250,000 for businesses with at least a 600 credit score. The application takes only minutes and funding can occur within a matter of 24 hours.

Visit MuevoLoans

Secured Small Business Line of Credit

A secured business line of credit is a good choice for business owners who have significant collateral to pledge and need access to larger amounts of capital. Funding is available for up to $25 million, rates are low, and repayment terms extend up to 10 years.

Secured line of credit types include:

  • Bank-issued: These small business lines of credit can have credit limits as high as $5 million. Many banks will utilize the Small Business Administration (SBA) CAPLine program. Interest rates tend to fall below 10% with repayment terms of up to 10 years, making them best for larger projects and larger businesses.
  • Equipment-backed: Lenders offer equipment-backed lines of credit up to $25 million. These are best used to finance the purchase of several vehicles for a fleet or to finance construction equipment to complete a project. Equipment-backed lines of credit have repayment terms up to the useful life of the equipment.
  • Invoice-backed: Invoice-backed lines of credit are similar to invoice factoring. However, business owners don’t sell invoices, and the line of credit amounts can reach $10 million. There are also no repayment terms because as lenders collect invoices, they apply payments toward their line of credit balance.

Secured Small Business Line of Credit Requirements

TypeMinimum Credit ScoreShortest Time in BusinessSmallest Annual Revenue
Bank-issued6802 years$500,000
Equipment-backed6802 years$500,000
Invoice-backedVaries2 years$500,000

Secured lines of credit are more difficult to qualify for and have longer application, approval, and funding times than unsecured lines of credit. Business owners must have extensive operational history and relatively high annual revenue to qualify. For bank-issued and equipment-backed lines of credit, business owners must also have good credit. Invoice-backed lines of credit are sometimes an exception to those more stringent requirements as credit score plays a smaller role in underwriting.

Secured Small Business Line of Credit Rates and Fees

TypeAPR RangeOrigination FeeMaintenance Fee
Bank-issued8% to 25%Up to 5%Up to $500 per year
Equipment-backed9% to 18%VariesVaries
Invoice-backed7% to 20%VariesVaries

Secured business lines of credit can offer borrowers lower rates because loans require collateral, so lenders have something to take if borrowers default. This can be a major benefit to business owners seeking to borrow larger dollar amounts. Origination and maintenance fees vary across secured lines of credit based on the type of collateral and also by the lender.

Secured Small Business Line of Credit Terms

TypeMaximum Credit LimitLongest Repayment TermFastest Speed of Funding
Bank-issued$5 millionUp to 10 years1 month
Equipment-backed$25 millionUp to the useful life of the equipment1 month
Invoice-backed$10 millionRepaid through invoice collection3 weeks

Secured lines of credit from a bank can be as large as $5 million, depending on the individual bank’s lending policy. Repayment terms can be as long as 10 years, but your line of credit will likely be reviewed annually by your lender. However, funding speeds are typically slower because of the higher business line of credit requirements and more due diligence for collateral. Secured lines of credit are ideally suited for businesses that do not need fast funding or are higher-revenue businesses in need of a larger credit limit.

Personal Line of Credit for Business

Startup small businesses that need capital often rely on personal financing from the business owners. A personal line of credit does not require any business information but will require good credit.

Consider the risk of using personal assets: Small business owners should thoughtfully review using personal financing for business and consider the risks of putting personal assets at stake.

Types of personal lines of credit include:

  • Personal: Banks and online lenders offer personal unsecured lines of credit without consideration for business qualifications. These credit lines go up to $100,000 and are best used by startups and low-revenue businesses whose owners have good credit and require a quick capital injection.
  • HELOC: Business owners and entrepreneurs can also access a HELOC to fund their business. It’s important to note that lenders base the size of a home equity line of credit on available home equity. A HELOC also puts the home at risk in the event of non-payment but offers much lower interest rates.

Personal Line of Credit Requirements

TypeMinimum Credit ScoreShortest Time in BusinessSmallest Annual Revenue
Personal720N/AN/A
HELOC660N/AN/A

Personal lines of credit have high minimum credit score requirements because lenders will rely on this metric in underwriting. Startups and new business owners with good credit can take advantage of the lack of time-in-business and annual-revenue requirements.

Personal Line of Credit Rates and Fees

TypeAPR RangeOrigination FeeMaintenance Fee
Personal7% to 15%NoneNone
HELOC4% to 11%Up to 5%Up to $75 annually

Borrowing money with a personal line of credit or HELOC has the benefit of low fees and interest rates. Business owners can access capital and pay it back quickly to lower the cost of borrowing. However, business owners must make sure that they have the budget and cash flow to cover financing in case their business performs below expectations.

Personal Line of Credit Terms

TypeMaximum Credit LimitLongest Repayment TermFastest Speed of Funding
PersonalUp to $100,0005 years2 weeks
HELOC85% of equity in homeUp to 30 years30 days

Personal line of credit limits can vary by lender and are typically no more than $100,000. However, a HELOC can be as high as available home equity, making it a great option for business owners with sufficient equity that need startup capital. HELOC repayment terms also extend up to 30 years, with up to 10 years to draw from the line and make interest repayments, plus up to 20 years for amortized repayment.

If you’re considering using a personal loan to finance your business, you may want to consider MuevoLoans. With its online marketplace, MuevoLoans allows you to compare rates and offers from various lenders to find the financing option that’s right for you.

Visit MuevoLoans

Pros & Cons of a Small Business Line of Credit

PROSCONS
High flexibilityPotentially lower credit limits
Revolving creditPotentially higher interest rates if line of credit is unsecured
Interest rates for secured lines of credit are very competitiveSecured lines of credit require collateral

Bottom Line

Business owners use lines of credit to finance recurring expenses. Business line of credit requirements vary based on whether the line is secured with collateral or if a personal line of credit is being used for business needs. Business owners should have a strong credit score, solid revenue, and established time in business, but there are options available for any business.

Housing Market Newsletter – 2022 Housing Market Forecast

Weekly Housing Trends View — Data Week November 27, 2021

Our research team releases regular monthly housing trends reports. These reports break down inventory metrics like the number of active listings and the pace of the market. In addition, we continue to give readers more timely weekly updates, an effort that began in response to the rapid changes in the economy and housing as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Generally, you can look forward to a Weekly Housing Trends View on Thursdays with a weekly video update from our economists on Fridays. Here’s what the housing market looked like over the last week.

What this Week’s Data Means:

Compared to the last lockdown Thanksgiving, 6.3 million more Americans planned to travel to celebrate with their families and friends this year. As a result, it was not surprising to see more sellers pause their selling plans than last Thanksgiving, which led to a drop of 12% in new listings compared to year-ago levels. The double-digit decline in house supply intensified competition relative to last year: median listing price grew by 8.9%, the highest growth rate within the past 11 weeks. However, active inventory counts and home selling acceleration rates remained in the same range we’ve seen over the last few months. There were 27% fewer homes available for sale, and homes sold 8 days faster than last year.

Nevertheless, buyers should not feel over-stressed by the abnormal drop in housing supply in the last week, especially when considering the unusual conditions during the last thanksgiving. In fact, according to Realtor.com® 2022 Housing Market Forecast and Predictions, Americans will have a better chance to find a home next year.

  • Inventory is expected to grow 0.3%.
  • Home sales are predicted to grow by 6.6%.
  • Home prices are predicted to advance at a more moderate pace of 2.6%.     

Key Findings:

  • The median listing price grew by 8.9 percent over last year. After an early-September uptick, home price growth has shifted back into high single-digit territory and displayed consistency. Home prices have risen by 8.5% to 8.9% relative to one year ago in 13 of the last 16 weeks. Home prices continue to rise due to a mismatch between supply and demand, stemming from a decade-long shortage of homebuilding. This means that housing affordability will be an increasingly important consideration for buyers, but with rents rising by 13.6%, buying may be the relatively more affordable housing option for some.
  • New listings–a measure of sellers putting homes up for sale–were down 12 percent from last year. New listings dropped for the second week in a row, and the year-over-year growth rate fell by 10 percentage points in just two weeks. This double-digit drop is the biggest decline after March 2021and holiday celebrations could play an important role in cooling down the new listing supply. Although Thanksgiving’s impact on new listings could be temporary, availability of for-sale homes is an ongoing challenge and potential limiting factor. However, an improvement could be on the horizon, with more homeowners planning to sell in the next 6 months and single-family home construction continuing at 1 million+ pace.
  • Active inventory continues to fall short and is down 27 percent from a year ago. With significant declines in new listings this week, it is not surprising to see an ongoing large gap in inventory,  reflecting continuous imbalance between buyer interest and home selling. On the surface, this trend seems like it’s purely a buyer’s challenge, but notably, the majority of home sellers will also buy another home. Thus, buyer challenges can impact seller participation. In fact, more than 1 in 4 homeowners who are not planning to sell indicated that the reason holding them back is that they can’t find a new home in their price range.
  • Time on market was down 8 days from last year. With fewer homes for sale now than this time last year, a typical home spent 50 days on market last week, continuing to move fastAnd other research suggests that gaps are likely even larger in the competitive suburban housing markets that have remained popular this year. This means buyers in today’s housing market still need to be prepared to act quickly even as the fall gives buyers a few extra days to make decisions relative to what was common in spring and summer.  Buyers can focus their home search using online tools to personalize their results so they can act quickly on listings that are the best fit. 

Data Summary:

Data Summary:

All Changes year-over-yearYear-to-Date 2021Week ending November 13, 2021Week ending November 20, 2021Week ending November 27, 2021
Median Listing Prices+11.3% +8.7%+8.6%+8.9%
New Listings -2% +1% -2% -12%
Active Listings -40% -25% -27% -27%
Time on Market17 days faster 10 days faster 11 days faster 8 days faster

How to Buy an Apartment Complex in 7 Steps

Buying an apartment complex is more involved than investing in single-family properties and requires a deeper understanding of managing property finances. Typically, you can learn how to buy an apartment building in seven steps, including deciding if apartment complexes are right for you and what type of apartment to purchase.

If you need financing when buying an apartment complex, check out Muevo They offer short-term and long-term apartment complex loans with short-term loans up to 90% of the cost. Apply online and get prequalified in just a few minutes.

Buying an apartment building can be simplified into the following seven steps:

1. Decide if Buying an Apartment Complex Is Right for You

Before you start an apartment investing business, you want to make sure it’s the right investment strategy for you. Compared to purchasing single-family homes and small multifamily properties, an apartment building requires more research, more time, and oftentimes more capital and additional expenses. It’s important to weigh the pros and cons before buying apartment complexes.

Pros of Buying Apartment Complexes

There are many benefits to apartment investing. These include recurring income, spreading income across many units, lower per-unit maintenance costs, and the potential for extra income beyond collected rents. Lenders typically base their financing criteria on the property’s performance. The property’s value is often determined by rental income and its overall performance.

Recurring Income

One of the main reasons for buying apartment buildings is ongoing income. If the deal is right and the finances are sound, a good apartment building will throw off recurring monthly income as a positive cash-on-cash return.

Diversifying Income

If you’re an investor who rents single-family properties, you’re probably familiar with a common vacancy problem. If you have no tenants, you lose 100% of your income. Apartment buildings mitigate the effects of a high vacancy rate. If one unit goes vacant, you still have the others to generate income to cover expenses and perhaps still generate positive cash flow.

Lower Per-unit Maintenance

Economies of scale work in favor of the apartment building owner. For example, if you must redo a roof, it’s not just for one unit. That repair serves all the units in the building. If you need to repaint, you can use the same paint for multiple units and not waste materials resulting from only one unit’s need.

Extra Sources of Income

The larger the building, the more likely you can add additional sources of income, such as vending machines, ATMs, and coin-operated laundry facilities. Renting parking spaces and space for billboard advertising can also provide additional income. One pro tip is to charge additional monthly rent for air conditioning units, upgraded appliances, and upgraded kitchens and bathrooms.

Revenue-based Financing

Unlike a single-family property, financing for apartment buildings is based mainly on the financial performance of the building (as opposed to your personal financial and credit situation). So, banks will look mainly at the financial situation with the building for approving a loan. This is advantageous if your FICO score is low.

Valuations Based on Rent Rolls

When buying apartment buildings, the value of the investment is determined in great part by the financial performance of the building. So, if you can increase rents, you can increase the value of your holding.

Cons of Buying Apartment Complexes

Buying an apartment building is more complex than acquiring a single-family home or even a small multi-unit property. The management will be a bit more intensive and the nature of tenants will be different. In addition, expect more frequent maintenance and property management to be more expensive.

Intensive Management

Once buildings are larger than four units, management becomes a much more intensive process. The ability to manage the property yourself becomes an issue, and you need to consider some form of outside management.

One option is hiring a professional property management company. In other cases, you’ll hire an onsite manager. Both come with additional costs and the need to supervise the manager. Typically, property managers charge 10% to 12% of gross monthly rents.

High Tenant Turnover

When tenants move into a single-family dwelling, they usually plan to stay for a long time. They typically become more invested in the property, engage more in community events, and become familiar with the neighborhood. Tenants in apartments, on the other hand, are much more transient.

In a single-family home, it’s not uncommon for a tenant to stay five or more years. In an apartment, tenants stay, on average, less than two years. When buying an apartment building, plan for tenant turnover and higher marketing costs to acquire new tenants.

Less Tenant Care

A renter in a single-family dwelling will tend to treat the property like their own home. However, tenants in an apartment are different. Tenants sometimes don’t treat apartments with the same care, so repairs and maintenance beyond normal wear and tear will be much more common with apartments.

Higher Maintenance Costs

When buying an apartment building, be prepared for higher tenant turnover and less care of the units. You’ll also have more ongoing maintenance with apartments than with single-family properties. Per-unit maintenance costs will be lower the more units a building has, but more time is needed for maintenance and repairs.

Overall maintenance costs are typically higher in apartment buildings. Avail CEO Ryan Coon cautions investors to consider that when major problems arise, such as heating system failure, it will impact more tenants, and repairs will be more costly. Replacing the plumbing system for a single-family home with one bathroom is cheaper than replacing the plumbing for a five-story building.

2. Choose the Type of Apartment Complex to Buy

If you’ve decided that buying an apartment complex is a good option for you, the next step is to consider the type of apartment building you want to acquire. This involves examining your personal and financial criteria for the purchase, the number of units desired, and understanding the class of apartments available for purchase.

More items to consider when choosing the type of apartment building to buy are:

Examine Your Personal & Financial Criteria Before Investing in an Apartment Complex

Consider your level of ambition and risk threshold, since both will affect the kind of apartment investments you’ll consider. The two main considerations along those lines are the number of units and the return on investment (ROI) you’re seeking.

Consider the Number of Units

If you’re conservative and only looking to supplement your retirement income or have a side income, you may want to stay with buildings no larger than six units. If you’re looking for higher income, and willing to take on the associated risks, consider larger buildings with 12 to more than 20 units.

Know the Types & Classes of Apartments

Apartment buildings come in a variety of forms. There are converted houses with multiple units, garden apartments with two stories, and properties with a dozen or more units in a single building. There are also multi-story mid-rise and high-rise apartments with scores of rental units.

In the U.S., there’s a rating scale with letters ranging from A to D, which attempts to classify the caliber of apartment buildings:

  • Class “A” apartment building: Luxury rentals less than 10 years old, or older renovated buildings; garden, mid-rise, or high-rise buildings; amenities (e.g., pools, tennis courts, and clubhouses)
  • Class “B” apartment building: Up to 20 years old; generally well-maintained; may have amenities; facilities are more dated than in Class “A” apartment buildings
  • Class “C” apartment building: Up to 30 years old; limited or no amenities; may have an apparent need for renovation and repair
  • Class “D” apartment building: Typically, over 30 years old; sometimes low-income, subsidized housing; few amenities; buildings usually need renovations and repairs

Most investors purchase class “B” and “C” properties because their cost is typically lower than class “A” properties, yet class “B” and “C” properties don’t demand the repairs, renovations, and intense management that class “D” properties require.

Consider Your Return on Investment

When apartment investing, you want to consider your return on investment (ROI). How much profit a building generates is a function of its size, income, and how much cash you have invested in the property. A smaller building with fewer units isn’t going to have the money-making potential of a larger property, but it won’t require as much cash to purchase or be as management-intensive.

Larger buildings with more rental units can produce more income, but they will require a larger upfront investment. Plus, the more units, the more you’ll need to consider how complex the day-to-day management will be. If you hire a property management company, it will take from your overall cash flow.

3. Locate an Apartment Complex to Buy

There are many ways to locate an apartment building to buy. You can search for yourself, without professional help. Local Real Estate Investment Associations (called REIAs) may be helpful with buying an apartment building. Or, you can enlist the services of professionals, including real estate agents, commercial real estate agents, or business brokers.

Some of the ways you can locate an apartment complex to buy are:

Search ‘For Sale by Owner’ Apartment Complexes

A great advantage of for sale by owner (FSBO) properties is that the seller is not paying a real estate commission. That’s 6% or 7% you might be able to negotiate off the asking price. Some FSBOs list higher prices knowing buyers will deduct commissions from their offer. You also may be able to get favorable terms, such as owner financing, and not have to get a bank loan.

Use a Local Real Estate Investment Association (REIA) to Find an Apartment Complex

If you search for an apartment building yourself, consider joining a local real estate investment club such as those offered by the Real Estate Investors Association (REIA). These groups provide networking with other investors who may have apartment buildings for sale, or know someone who does.

Engage a Real Estate Agent

The real estate sales and brokerage industry provide access to the largest body of properties for sale, including apartment buildings. Every real estate agent has access to one or more Multiple Listing Services (MLS) that list all the properties for sale by every agency that participates in that MLS. Multiple-unit properties and apartment buildings are also listed in that database.

Real estate agents know the market and know how to determine values, so buildings will tend to be priced at the maximum allowable market value. Not every agent is experienced with selling apartments, so you’ll want to be sure you are working with someone who has a track record of multi-unit apartment complex sales.

Consider a Commercial Real Estate Agent When Buying an Apartment Complex

Commercial real estate agents specialize in selling commercial properties and have better access to apartment building listings. They also have access to the listings of other commercial brokerages that are not part of the typical MLS and know more details about the properties currently on the market. Commercial real estate agent commissions are typically in the 7% to 10% range.

Commercial real estate agents understand the different metrics used to evaluate apartment buildings and other financial principles you may not yet be familiar with. If you’re just learning how to buy an apartment complex, let them know you are a beginner and ask them to clarify things you don’t understand. Also, consider working with a buyer’s broker who can represent you during the transaction.

Consider Using a Business Broker

Business brokers sell businesses, but they also sell mixed-use properties such as commercial buildings that have residential units, smaller apartment buildings of five to 10 units, and apartment buildings. Like commercial real estate agents, business brokers might use business or finance terms you’re unfamiliar with. Don’t be afraid to ask for clarification.

4. Evaluate the Potential Apartment Complex & Neighborhood

When evaluating and buying an apartment building, be sure to consider the location, the numbers and sizes of units, the property’s amenities, if any, and any construction or renovation issues so you can address these early on.

Perform two financial assessments. The first is a basic estimate of income and expenses to see if the property will generate positive cash flow. If it does, perform a full evaluation of the building’s financials, including rent rolls, vacancy rates, rental loss, and any expenses you will acquire with the property (such as utilities and municipal costs). This is to make sure the purchase is viable.

More details about evaluating the apartment building and neighborhood are:

Assess the Location of the Apartment Complex

As with any real estate investment, you want to purchase an apartment building in a desirable area. Consider the outcomes of buying properties in blighted neighborhoods no matter how enticing a cheap purchase may seem. Some investors do make purchases in tough neighborhoods work, but if it is not in alignment with your goals, or you don’t have the skills to manage these properties, you may want to look elsewhere.

Better-located properties provide a stronger base of tenants, better tenants who will take better care of your property, higher rents, and a greater chance of appreciation for the building.

Consider the Number & Size of Units in the Apartment Complex

As mentioned earlier, if you are considering buying apartment buildings, you’ll want to consider how many units each property has. You’ll also want to consider the square footage of those units and the number of bedrooms and baths.

Studio or efficiency units can be difficult to rent outside of college campuses and high population areas. One-bedroom units are easier to rent than studios, but your best bet is two-bedroom units and larger. A couple, particularly with a child, will want that second bedroom. Even a single person may want a second bedroom for guests or as a home office. It opens a larger market of potential renters than a one-bedroom does.

Note Apartment Complex Amenities

Amenities help drive interest in your property. These include everything from washers and dryers in the units to covered parking or garages, convenience stores, vending machines, swimming pools, spas, and gyms. The more amenities the property has, the more desirable it will be to tenants, and may command higher rents.

Pay Attention to Construction Details When Buying an Apartment Complex

The five most common problem areas of apartment building construction are:

1. Flat Roof

Flat roofs tend to breed all kinds of problems, particularly related to leaks. However, it’s somewhat hard to avoid them because so many older apartment buildings have flat roofs. Just be aware they can be problematic.

2. All Frame vs Brick

If a building is all wood frame, it’s prone to exterior paint and rot issues. That means the more exterior wood, the more exterior maintenance you’ll have to pay for. It also causes a more expensive insurance rating for fire.

3. Old Plumbing

If the building is more than 30 years old and the plumbing has never been replaced, be prepared for frequent plumbing repairs. Old pipes can leak and deteriorate. More importantly, you can have issues with lead, and pipes wrapped in asbestos mean more expenses to remove it.

4. Shared Utilities

Older apartments sometimes have shared systems for heat and electricity. This means the landlord pays for those utilities and tries to prorate it among tenants by charging higher rent. Since tenants aren’t paying for heat, and it’s not uncommon for some to raise the heat with a window open in the winter, increasing the landlord’s utility costs.

5. Asbestos & Lead Paint

Old buildings often contain asbestos in the insulation, HVAC systems, and exterior siding. Additionally, the interior may contain lead-based paint. Depending on where you live, you may have to mitigate those issues. It’s important to have a building inspector look for those materials, and check with your city and state to find out what remedies are required if they are present in the building.

Examine the Basic Numbers Before Buying an Apartment Complex

There are several basic numbers you can look at as you are evaluating an apartment building, including rent rolls, occupancy rate, and cost per unit. These will provide a preliminary look at the profit potential before you make a more thorough examination of the property’s financials.

The numbers you should examine before buying an apartment building are:

Apartment Complex Rent Rolls

Get the current rental amounts for every unit. Total those and multiply by 12 to get a ballpark idea of the gross annual rent. This is called the rent roll. A tool used by investors based on the rent roll to compare apartment building purchases is the gross rent multiplier. It compares the value of the building as a function of rents.

Apartment Complex Occupancy Rate

Occupancy rates tell you how much of the time a building is occupied. Vacancy rates tell you how much of the time a building is vacant. Ask about the property’s occupancy and vacancy rates. Check with real estate agents and landlord groups in your area to find out what vacancy rates are typical. Compare the figures to local industry averages.

Cost per Unit in an Apartment Complex

This is calculated by dividing the building’s purchase price by the number of units it contains. It will allow you to make comparisons with other apartment buildings you are considering and compare that figure with local average per-unit pricing. This figure can become a good bargaining tool if you want to purchase the building but the price is too high.

Evaluate the Full Financials Prior to Buying an Apartment Complex

Evaluating basic numbers gives a snapshot of the property’s financial performance. Before you make an offer, you need to get detailed financials for the property for one to five years. Gross operating (rental) income, expenses, vacancy rates, and certain ratios examine the viability of an apartment building and will affect your ability to get financing.

The numbers to help you evaluate an apartment complex include:

Gross Operating Income

Gross operating income is the total rent collected from the property. If you are buying a vacant apartment building, you may need to perform a potential rental income (PRI) analysis. A PRI is based on a rental market analysisaccording to the leases and terms of comparable properties in the area.

Expenses

Expenses when buying apartment buildings include mortgages, interest, insurance, advertising, maintenance, repairs, utilities, municipal costs, property and other taxes, fees, management expenses, business expenses, and professional services.

It’s important to know what the total expenses are for the year, and what the patterns of expenses look like each month. Some months will have higher expenses than others, such as heating and snow removal in winter months, and cooling and landscaping in warm months.

Net Operating Income (NOI)

Net operating income is what remains from collected rent after paying all expenses. It’s a good idea to examine net operating income both monthly and annually. Net operating income is also known as cash flow. Cash flow can be positive, meaning you made money during that period, or it can be negative, meaning the property cost you money during that period of time.

Net Operating Income Example

MonthlyAnnually
Potential Rent Roll$3,600$43,200
– Vacancy (10%)-$360-$4,320
= Gross Operating Income$3,240$38,800
– Expenses$2,160$25,920
= Net Operating Income (Cash Flow)$1,080$12,960

This is an example of computing net operating income for a six-unit building, with each unit renting for $600 per month. In this example, the cash flow is positive, with $1,080 in monthly income ($12,960 per year).

Profit & Loss Statement

The table above is a simplified version of presenting monthly and annual finances. You should be provided with a cash flow statement, income statement, or profit and loss statement. Fundamentally, these are the same thing. They give a complete picture by itemizing all income and expenses, allowing you to examine each expense category instead of one combined sum as in our example above.

Capitalization Rate

The capitalization rate (cap rate) shows the rate of return on the investment. It’s an important figure that allows you to compare one investment scenario against another, or one property against another. The cap rate does not include mortgage debt.

The formula is:

Cap rate = Net operating income / Purchase price

Let’s use the example from above with a purchase price of $200,000.

Cap rate = $12,960 / $200,000
Cap rate = 6.48%

Whether 6.48% is a good cap rate depends on a couple of things. First, it depends on other properties in the area you are considering. If two other similar properties in the area have cap rates of 11% and 12%, then the one above isn’t as good a choice.

It also matters how you buy the property. In the NOI example above, let’s presume the $25,920 included interest of approximately $7,000 per year. If you paid all cash for the building, you would not have the interest expense. Therefore, your expenses would have been $18,920, resulting in higher net operating income of $7,000 per month, or $19,960 annually with a cap rate of 9.98%.

Due Diligence When Buying Apartment Complexes

If you’ve decided to move forward with a purchase, you need to investigate a few more things. Some of these should be written into your offer to purchase and subject to your approval, e.g., satisfactory review of leases, the profit and loss statement, and property inspections.

Determine Why the Owner Is Selling

When buying an apartment building, try to ascertain why the owners are selling. The seller’s circumstances are an important consideration for negotiating a deal. For example, if a seller wants to retire and move, his or her motivations are very different than if faced with a property needing major repairs or in preforeclosure.

It’s challenging trying to unearth something with the property that a seller tried to hide. As a general rule, sellers are required to disclose property conditions they are aware of. Undisclosed problems are costly, so you want to discover issues and ask for the seller to remedy them or you will inherit them.

Obtain Copies of Apartment Complex Leases

Leases contain rent amounts, terms of the lease, pet policies, security deposits, and who pays for utilities. If you keep the existing tenants after you take ownership, you inherit the existing leases, so you need to be familiar with them.

Request Apartment Complex Tax Returns

Request the property accounting records and tax returns, and further investigate any discrepancies. For example, if the seller shows $12,000 in net operating income in their accounting records, but counts $9,500 on the tax return, that needs to be explained.

Conduct Inspections of the Apartment Complex

You will want to have a licensed building inspector perform a thorough inspection of the property. Apartment buildings frequently have shared systems, various levels of condition throughout each unit, and potential issues with common areas and amenities. You’ll want a detailed inspection report of what needs to be repaired and negotiate serious issues.

5. Make an Offer on the Apartment Complex

Making a good offer on a property involves knowing the current market value for similar properties in the area and the potential for profit. You may find it helpful to perform a rental market analysis, where you compare recently sold properties, properties currently for sale, and expired listings.

Get an Appraisal of the Apartment Complex

Appraisals for apartment buildings are different than they are for residential rental properties. There are three methods used together to determine current market value: market value, replacement cost, and income approach.

Here are the three methods of an apartment building appraisal:

Market Value Approach

Market value will look at similar properties and their selling prices. For example, if you are considering purchasing a six-unit building with six two-bedroom apartments, the appraiser will look at similar buildings and what they sold for within the prior year. Market value per-unit is considered in this approach.

Replacement Cost Approach

Replacement cost examines the amount it would cost per square foot to build a similar building. If you are looking at a four-unit building with 4,000 square feet, and construction costs in your area run $100 per square foot, the replacement cost will be valued at $400,000.

Income Approach

The income approach uses the net operating income and local capitalization rates to determine the value of the investment. To accomplish this, take the net operating income and divide it by the cap rate.

Value = Net operating income / Cap rate

For example, if the net operating income of the building is $46,000 and the cap rate in your area is 10%, then:

Value = $46,000 / 10% = $460,000

Rent Affects the Apartment Building’s Value

It’s important to understand that if you increase rental income, you increase the property’s value.

For example, assume you purchased the above building for $460,000 and raised the rents 20%, increasing the net operating income to $55,200. Using the income approach, the building’s value would now be $520,000 ($55,200 / 10% = $552,000). You will have increased the property’s value to $92,000.

6. Finance the Purchase of an Apartment Complex

When buying an apartment building, successful funding requires understanding the types of financing available for buying apartment complexes, recourse versus non-recourse loans, and lender required reserves. Also, because it affects net operating income, how lenders look at occupancy during the loan approval process is also important.

The areas you need to consider when you finance the purchase of an apartment building are:

Types of Financing for Apartments

Financing for apartments is fundamentally different than residential purchases. Commercial lending, as opposed to residential lending, is what you will likely use, with conventional loans, seller financing, or private loans your typical options.

Commercial as Opposed to Residential Lending

Apartment buildings will often be financed with commercial as opposed to residential loans. While residential loans may be an option for two- to four-unit buildings, particularly if you are going to live in one of the units, you should familiarize yourself with commercial loans.

Conventional Loans

Unless the multi-unit building is four units or less and you plan on living in one of the units, government loans such as the Federal Housing Authority (FHA) and Veterans Administration (VA) loans are not available. The vast majority of apartment financing comes in the form of commercial loans from banks and financial institutions.

Private Loans & Seller Financing

Instead of conventional lending through a bank, you can consider owner financing, where the seller acts as a lender. Sellers of commercial or investment property are sometimes willing to offer seller financing because the interest they earn means a greater return on their investment.

With the potential for interest rate income, you might find private lenders or investors willing to lend money on good apartment deals. Instead of going to a bank, these lenders provide the purchase money and you’ll make payments to them.

Using Your Retirement Funds to Finance Your Purchase

An alternative means of financing your apartment complex purchase is to tap into your retirement funds. If you have savings in an IRA or a Solo 401(k) plan, you can open a self-directed retirement account to invest in a variety of assets, including real estate.

With a provider such as Rocket Dollar, you can rollover an existing plan or make direct contributions, allowing you to take advantage of tax-deferred retirement funds and invest in real estate while staying IRS-compliant. Rocket Dollar can get you set up for a $360 registration fee plus $15/month. Schedule a free call today to learn more.

Visit Rocket Dollar

Recourse vs Non-recourse Loans

With a recourse loan, if you default on payments, the lender can pursue financial remedies beyond foreclosure. With a non-recourse loan, the lender can only go after the property. Non-recourse loans are the obvious choice, but harder to get since lenders require steeper down payments. These loans also typically carry higher interest rates.

Putting the Apartment Complex in a Legal Entity

If the lender allows it, it is best to not buy an apartment building in your name. Because of the complexities and risks inherent in apartment ownership, you should only buy an apartment building in the name of a business entity. Your accountant and attorney can advise you whether a limited liability company (LLC) or corporation is a better choice.

Lender Required Reserves for Buying an Apartment Complex

Lenders will typically require you to maintain one or two common types of reserves. The first is interest reserves, which will help ensure you can meet the periodic payments. The other is cash reserves to ensure you can meet operating expenses, insurance, taxes, and repairs.

Combined, reserves may total as much as six months of payments.

Key Items Considered by Lenders During the Loan Approval Process

Because net operating income is so important to real estate investing, especially when buying an apartment building, lenders will look favorably on properties with good market potential, high occupancy rates, and long-term tenants. This is another argument in favor of doing your due diligence upfront by evaluating income, expenses, vacancy rates, and the property’s condition.

7. Close on the Purchase of the Apartment Complex

Three things to consider when closing on an apartment investment include selecting an escrow agent or title company experienced with apartments, closing on a financially advantageous day of the month, and having security deposits properly transferred to you.

Select an Escrow Agent or Title Company Experienced With Apartments

As with any kind of real property purchase, you need to select an escrow agent or title company to close the transaction. In some states, attorneys handle real estate closings. In other states, title or escrow companies are used. Make sure the company you work with has experience with apartment investments.

Close on the Apartment Complex on a Financially Advantageous Day of the Month

The best time to close is either the last couple of days or the first few days of the month. Rents are paid in advance. Mortgage payments are made in arrears. Closing right after rents are collected provides almost a full month of cushion before the next mortgage payment is due. Closing on the last day of the month can also be advantageous since it can save on interest payments.

Ensure Apartment Complex Security Deposits Are Properly Transferred to You

When you close on the property, security deposits become your responsibility. Most states require landlords to keep the security deposits in a separate escrow account. Even if your state doesn’t require this, that money, with interest, belongs the tenants unless it’s required for damage or unpaid rent. Make sure security deposits are turned over at closing and get them into separate escrow accounts for each tenant.

How to Buy an Apartment Complex Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Below, we’re going to answer some of the most frequently asked questions on how to buy an apartment building.

Some of the most frequently asked questions about how to buy an apartment building are:

How much money can you make if you buy an apartment complex?

Buying an apartment building can be lucrative if you find a good deal, the property has positive cash flow, and the ROI is high. However, there can be a lot of expenses (e.g., property management fees, rental property insurance, and property taxes). These affect how much money you make after you buy an apartment complex.

How do you buy an apartment complex with no money down?

Typically, you’ll need at least 10% down to buy an apartment building. However, while rare, there are ways to buy an apartment building with no money down. This can be done if you wholesale the property, partner with an investor, or find a hard money lender who will finance 100% of the loan.

Are there any tax benefits of buying an apartment complex?

There are typically rental property tax benefits involved with an apartment building. Some of these tax benefits include writing off mortgage interest, expenses, and repairs, and depreciating the building.

Bottom Line

Buying an apartment complex is typically best for more experienced investors. First, decide if buying an apartment building is right for you, and then choose the type of building to purchase based on research and evaluation of the property. If you’re not paying with all cash, you’ll typically need to find an apartment building loan.

If you’re wondering where to get an apartment building loan, check out Muevo. They will typically fund up to 90% of the cost on short-term loans and up to 75% of the value on five- to 30-year loan terms. They offer competitive rates and you can get prequalified online within just a few minutes.

Visit Muevo.

What is a Bridge Loan?

What is a Bridge Loan?

Bridge loans are essentially short-term loans used until a company or person can secure permanent financing or remove an obligation. These loans allow you to meet your current obligations by providing you with immediate cash flow. Bridge loans are only short term, up to one year.

They are also usually equipped with high-interest rates that are backed by a form of collateral. The collateral is usually in the form of real estate or inventory.

How Do Bridge Loans Work?

Bridge loans are often referred to as bridging loans, interim financing, gap financing, or swing loans. They essentially bridge the gap when financing is needed but not available at the current time. Hence the name bridge loan. 

These types of loans can be customized for different situations. They help homeowners purchase their new home while waiting for their previous one to sell. Borrowers use the equity in their current home as a down payment for their next home. They also help commercial property investors purchase new property without having the financing needed on hand.

These loans are fantastic for allowing a little extra time which results in peace of mind. While these loans are often accompanied by a higher interest rate, they are the only choice for some people. Compared to other options, they are a rather good choice. 

They are often made with a clear exit plan along with how the borrower is going to actually pay off the loan. Lenders will consider many things before providing you with the loan. 

Bridge Loans in Residential Real Estate

Bridge loans are extremely common in the real estate industry. Often, if a buyer has a large period between purchasing a new property and selling the other, they will opt for a bridge loan. 

Usually, lenders will only consider bridge loans in real estate to borrowers who harbor an excellent credit rating. Low debt-to-income ratios are also helpful. With these loans, buyers are offered flexibility as their old house is waiting to sell. In this instance, bridge loans combine the mortgages of both houses.

Commercial Real Estate Bridge Loan Use

Commercial bridge loans can be used by real estate investors, other commercial borrowers, and developers in circumstances such as:

  • Cash-out to finish a financially exhausted construction project
  • Refinancing an expiring term balloon loan for a permanent loan that is more favorable
  • To stabilize a multifamily property to qualify for a permanent loan
  • Making repairs in the short term with cash-out so that properties will qualify for commercial bank loans
  • Carry a subdivision development until homes are able to be sold

Bridge Loan vs Traditional Loan

When it comes to bridge loans, you will find that they have a far faster application process. Approval and funding are also far faster than traditional loans. However, what they have in convenience, they lack in other areas.

Bridge loans often have short terms, high-interest rates, and inflated origination fees. Borrowers usually just accept these terms because they need access to funds in a quick manner. They are happy to pay the inflated high-interest rates because of the short-term nature of the loan. 

It is also favorable because they can pay it off with low-interest, long-term financing quicker than usual. Most bridge loans also don’t have repayment penalties which is why they are so popular.

Common Types of Bridge Loan Financing 

Bridge loans aren’t a one-size-fits-all type thing. In fact, they come in all types of forms. However, certain scenarios are far more common than others. 

Some of these include, but are not limited to:

  • Non-recourse loans from 8% up to 75% LTV
  • No FICO or foreign nationals up to 75% LTV
  • Bridge loan rates between 6.99% to 8% for loans up to 60% LTV without a prepayment penalty
  • Non-recourse payments starting at $5M with interest-only payments
  • Bridge loans on multifamily, retail, office, industrial, hospitality, and mixed-use commercial real estate
  • Interest-only, fixed-rate payments
  • Customized bridge loans that meet business requirements
  • Six-month term loan from 85% LTV from $3M to $100M

If you need a bridge loan, the aforementioned information should help you find the right option for your situation.