Property can be less volatile than shares or other investments and is considered a fairly low risk investment.
Low risk investments are always popular and housing in metropolitan areas is constantly in demand.
The real estate investor has a bit more control over the risks as those renting property in which to live who will continue to rent and without a corresponding decrease in rental amounts.
The high purchase price is often offset by substantial income and a possible annual return between 4% and 8%.
Rental income can be earned and buyers can benefit from capital growth once your property increases in value over time.
Many people like the idea of an investment that could create a source of income in their retirement.
Rental housing is one sector that rarely decreases in price, making it a good potential option for long term investments.
If you take out a loan to purchase an investment property the interest on the loan is tax deductable as your investment is a tangible asset.
A number of deductions can be claimed on your tax return, such as repairs and maintenance, rates and taxes, insurance, agent's fees, travel to and from the property to facilitate repairs and building depreciation.
Tax deductions may also be claimed as a result of negative gearing where the cost of keeping the investment property exceeds the income gained from it.
There are many benefits when deciding to take out another loan or invest in something else.
A good payment history is highly regarded and the property could prove useful as security when taking out another home, car or personal loan.
Real estate has shown to be an excellent source of profit as value increases over time.
Upgrades to the improvement and functionality of the property can significantly increase value.
Keeping the property interesting to the potential market will at the very least help you retain value.
Investment properties can be purchased at 80% LVR (loan to valuation ratio) or up to 90% LVR with mortgage insurance.
This means that the higher leverage capacity results in a higher return for the investor at a lower risk due to having less personal finances tied up in the property as 80% of the purchase price was provided by mortgage.
Although your fixed mortgage will remain constant, inflation that drives up home construction costs will certainly also drive up rentals.
Current population growth rates create housing demand, again driving up rent prices if supply cannot keep pace.
Finally, there are opportunities to buy below market, but the other advantages will probably be what the average investor experiences most of the time.
If the opportunity arises to purchase a value-priced property, it becomes an immediate way to increase your net worth and the value of your investment portfolio.