For commercial real estate, this typically consists of properties with five or more units, such as apartment buildings. For beginning investors, there could be benefits to acquiring a place where you can live in one unit and rent the remainder. In these “live-plus-invest” opportunities, if there are fewer than four tenants you could qualify for a residential home loan. These properties are usually considered the safest investments, as people always need a place to live.
In addition to understanding the asset classes available, you’ll want to draw on your background and experience when making decisions. While multifamily, as I mentioned, is often well suited for beginners, you might look to delve into other property types as you build your portfolio. I often find advantages in mixed-use properties, such as a building with retail on the ground level and apartments above.
Having an overview of the property types available is really just the beginning of a real estate investing journey. In the next articles, I’ll lay out other key elements, including the nuances of different property types and the risk levels attached to them. Like other industries, in real estate, the more you know, the greater your chances for ongoing returns and lasting success.