TRM-2024SeptOct

Investor Review: INTEREST RATES

How Interest Rates Impact Real Estate Investments AN ARTICLE SERIES ON NAVIGATING THE PRIVATE LENDING WORLD

DAMON RIEHL

I nterest rates play a pivotal role in real estate investments. They influence borrowing costs, property values, and overall market conditions. As an investor, you must understand how interest rates impact your investments to make informed decisions. Let’s explore the effects of interest

There are two types of interest rates: 1. FIXED INTEREST RATES, WHICH REMAIN CONSTANT OVER THE LOAN TERM. 2. VARIABLE INTEREST RATES, WHICH FLUCTUATE BASED ON MARKET CONDITIONS. Central banks adjust interest rates to manage inflation and stimulate economic growth. Lower rates encourage borrowing and investment; higher rates aim to cool down an overheating economy.

borrowing costs, property values, and rental income cash flow. IMPACT ON BORROWING COSTS. Higher interest rates increase the cost of borrowing. When loans are more expensive, it can deter investors from taking on new debt. EFFECT ON PROPERTY VALUES. When borrowing costs rise, potential buyers may find it harder to afford mortgages, leading to decreased demand and lower property prices. INFLUENCE ON RENTAL YIELDS. Higher interest rates can lead to higher mortgage payments, reducing the cash flow from rental properties. Investors may need to adjust rental prices to maintain profitability.

rates on real estate and discuss some strategies to mitigate risks and capitalize on opportunities.

WHAT ARE INTEREST RATES? Interest rates represent the cost of borrowing money, expressed as a percentage of the loan amount. Central banks, like the Federal Reserve, influence these rates to control economic activity.

HOW INTEREST RATES AFFECT REAL ESTATE INVESTMENTS Interest rates impact investments in several key ways, including

34 | think realty magazine :: september - october 2024

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