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What is a Reserve Fund?

what is a reserve fund?

A reserve fund is like a special savings account that someone or a group sets up to have money available in case they have to pay for unexpected expenses in the future. If the reserve fund is meant to pay for planned improvements, they might use assets that can’t be turned into cash easily. Sometimes, a group of homeowners who live in the same area can have a reserve fund too. They put money in it whenever they pay their dues so that they can keep their community and its shared things in good condition.

How a reserve fund works

A reserve fund is like a special money pot that is set aside to pay for things that are planned, normal, or unexpected. This fund can be created by different types of groups, like the government, banks, or families.

Usually, people put money into the reserve fund regularly, and it earns interest if it’s not being used. The amount of money in the fund can vary, but it’s important to have enough in case there are sudden expenses. The money in the fund is often kept in an account where it’s easy to get to, like a savings account.

Sometimes, when people retire, they get money from a reserve fund. This is because when they were working, they put some of their pay into a pension plan, which is like a reserve fund for retirement. This money is invested to make more money and is then paid out to the employee after they retire.

reserve funds for condos & hoas

Homeowner groups and condos often have a special fund called a reserve fund. They use this fund to pay for big maintenance or renovation projects or for any emergencies that cost a lot of money. They also have another fund called an operating fund that they use to pay for regular things like cleaning, taxes, insurance, and utilities.

Homeowners or condo owners pay money into these funds regularly, and the board of directors decides how to spend the money. Sometimes, they use the reserve fund instead of the operating fund to pay for big expenses like insurance payments.

If there is a really big expense that the reserve fund can’t pay for, each homeowner might have to pay extra money to cover it. For example, if the condo’s parking garage needs urgent repairs, the owners might have to pay more money than usual to the homeowner group.

reserve studies and managing reserve funds

To avoid having to pay extra money for unexpected expenses, it’s important to make sure that a building’s reserve fund has enough money in it. A reserve study is done by experts who look at a property and figure out how much money should be in the reserve fund. They look at things like how old the property is, what condition it’s in, and what kind of maintenance might be needed in the future.

The experts recommend how much money should be in the reserve fund, but sometimes the actual amount is less than what’s recommended. If the reserve fund isn’t managed well, the people who live there might have to pay more money to cover expenses.

If someone is thinking about buying a house in a community, they should find out if the homeowner group or condo association is managing their reserve fund well so they don’t have to pay more money later.

Already have a reserve fund? Sounds like you might be an Accredited Investor! If you are, click here for more information.

in BuyProperly, Latest News, Thought Leadership Posted by wpengine

Is Real Estate Inflation Proof?

There’s no doubt that real estate is a great investment. Over time, it has proved to be one of the most stable and reliable ways to grow your wealth. But is real estate immune to inflation? And if not, what can you do to protect yourself against rising costs? 

In this article, we’ll explore the relationship between real estate and inflation, and give you some tips on how to stay ahead of the curve.

what is inflation?

Inflation is defined as a sustained increase in the prices of goods and services. It’s usually measured by the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which tracks the cost of a basket of everyday items. When inflation is high, your money doesn’t go as far as it used to. You might not notice it at first, but over time, the prices of things start to creep up.

why are we currently seeing inflation?

There are a number of reasons why inflation is on the rise. One of the main drivers is the global pandemic in 2020. The shortage of goods and materials and the increased demand for them have led to inflationary pressures.

Additionally, central banks around the world have been pumping money into the economy through quantitative easing (QE) programs. This is often referred to as “printing money,” and it can lead to inflationary pressures similar to what we’re seeing now.

how does inflation affect real estate?

Inflation affects real estate in two ways: home prices and mortgage rates. 

When inflation is high, home prices tend to rise as well. This is because demand for housing is usually high when there is economic growth, and prices go up when there aren’t enough homes to meet that demand. Mortgage rates also tend to rise during periods of inflation, because lenders are looking to protect themselves from the potential for higher prices down the road. Inflation can have a number of different effects on real estate. One of the most direct is on real estate prices. When inflation is high, prices for both commercial and residential real estate tend to increase. This is because as the cost of goods and services goes up, so does the cost of land and buildings. In addition to prices, inflation can also affect real estate buying behavior. When inflation is low, buyers are more likely to purchase real estate, since it’s a relatively safe investment. However, when inflation is high, buyers may be more hesitant to invest, since the value of their money is decreasing. Despite these effects, real estate is still considered a relatively safe investment during periods of inflation because it’s a physical asset that can’t be devalued by inflationary pressures. Additionally, real estate tends to appreciate over time, which can help offset the effects of inflation.

what does this mean for investors?

If you’re thinking of buying a home, it’s important to be aware of how inflation might affect your purchase. You’ll need to budget not only for the purchase price of the home but also for the higher mortgage payments that come with inflation. And if you’re already a homeowner, you’ll need to be prepared for your property taxes and insurance premiums to go up as well.

is real estate a safe investment during inflation?

Real estate is generally considered to be a safe investment during periods of inflation. This is because home prices tend to rise along with inflation. Since real estate is a physical asset, it’s not as susceptible to the volatility that can occur in the stock market.

However, there are some risks to consider. If inflation is high, interest rates are likely to rise as well. This means that your mortgage payments will go up, even if your home’s value doesn’t increase. And if you’re carrying a lot of debt, rising interest rates can make it difficult to keep up with your payments.

Let’s look at the main reasons why real estate is a great investment during periods of marketing instability and inflation:

  1. It’s a physical asset: Real estate is a physical asset, which means it’s not as susceptible to the volatility that can occur in the stock market.
  2. It tends to appreciate in value: Over time, real estate has tended to appreciate in value, even during periods of inflation.
  3. It can provide a steady income stream: If you choose to rent out your property, you can generate a steady income stream that can help offset the effects of inflation.
  4. It can be a hedge against inflation: Since real estate tends to appreciate in value during periods of inflation, it can be a good way to protect your wealth from the effects of rising prices.

The bottom line is that real estate is a great investment during periods of inflation. It’s a physical asset that tends to appreciate in value, and it can provide a steady income stream. However, there are some risks to consider, such as the potential for higher mortgage payments and the difficulty of carrying debt in an inflationary environment. But overall, real estate is a safe investment during periods of market volatility and inflation.

so, is real estate inflation proof?

Yes and no; here are some of the reasons real estate is not technically inflation-proof:

  1.  Home prices don’t always go up: 
    While home prices have tended to appreciate over time, they don’t always go up. In fact, there have been periods of deflation (when prices fall) in the real estate market.

  2. You still need to make mortgage payments: 
    Even if home prices go up, you’ll still need to make mortgage payments. In an inflationary environment, these payments will likely become more expensive.

  3. You could still lose money: 
    If you need to sell your home in a hurry, you could end up selling it for less than you paid for it.

  4. It’s not a liquid asset: 
    Real estate is not a liquid asset, which means it can be difficult to sell quickly.

Despite these risks, real estate is still a great investment during periods of inflation. Just remember to consider the risks before investing, and to consult with a financial advisor to get the most accurate advice for your situation.

If you’re thinking of buying a home or investing in real estate, it’s important to do your research and understand how inflation might affect your purchase.

Make sure you budget not only for the purchase price of the home but also for the higher mortgage payments that come with inflation. And if you’re already a homeowner, be prepared for your property taxes and insurance premiums.

how can you invest in real estate during periods of inflation?

If you’re thinking of investing in real estate, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, remember that real estate is a long-term investment. This means you’ll need to be prepared for periods of market volatility and inflation. 

You can also consider investing in real estate securities, such as REITs, which are designed to provide investors with exposure to the real estate market without the hassle of owning and managing property.

There is also fractional ownership, which can help inventors get started in real estate with a minimal budget. If you’re interested in this model, visit our friends at BuyProperly to learn more.

Finally, make sure you do your research and understand how inflation might affect your investment. By being prepared and knowing what to expect, you can protect yourself from the most common pitfalls.

No matter what your real estate goals are, it’s important to be aware of how inflation can affect your plans. By being prepared and knowing what to expect, you can protect yourself from the most common pitfalls.

In conclusion, real estate is a great investment during periods of inflation because it’s a physical asset that tends to appreciate in value, and it can provide a steady income stream. Just remember to consider the risks before investing, and to consult with a financial advisor to get the most accurate advice for your situation.

in BuyProperly, Thought Leadership Posted by wpengine

Meet Brandon Rynka, Owner of BR365 Strength Lab Gym

brandon Wants to get you stronger — painlessly!

BR365 Strength Lab owner Brandon Rynka wants to get you stronger, fitter, and more resilient at his beautiful new, pain-free, results-driven strength training gym.

sign up for a free trial today!

At BR365 Strength Lab, your workout programming is structured, phased, and planned to optimize your results.

Brandon uses adaptation in his fitness programs which can aid you in:

  • Becoming stronger
  • Building muscle
  • Relieving chronic pain
  • Creating high resiliency to injury
  • Burning off body fat
  • Increasing explosiveness
  • Improving power output
  • Enhancing athleticism
  • Speeding up metabolism
  • Assisting in regulating hormones through strength training

A different kind of science lab

BR365 Strength Lab uses scientific and applied strength methods for genuine, lasting results. Brandon focuses on training rather than exercise. Exercise is for general physical maintenance, where as training is a results-driven method to increase strength, muscle, power, and speed while addressing pain-relief.

The BR365 Strength Lab offers you real results from proven strength coaches and athletes.

Services designed for you

The lab offers:
  1. Small group classes
  2. Small group or athlete-specific training
  3. Personalized, one-on-one training
The lab offers 7 types of memberships, including a First Responder Membership available at a special rate.

get in touch

BR365 Strength Lab
brandonrynka365@gmail.com
Insta: @br365strengthlab
315 Brock Rd., Hamilton, ON L9H 5H7

about 315 brock Rd.

This 9-unit property is in a prime location in the centre of the high net worth community of Greensville. It’s been recently renovated inside and out features spacious parking lots and large, glass loading doors. It is adaptable for industrial use, retail, and more. 315 Brock Rd. is in close proximity to downtown Dundas, Waterdown, Tews Falls, Dundas Peak, and Webster’s Falls. In peak season, it sees immense foot traffic and drive-by traffic. Learn more about 315 Brock Rd. >>

Imagine the possibilities!

via GIPHY

CONTACT A FORGE & FOSTER LEASING SPECIALIST

Book your private tour of 315 Brock and find your future space
leasing[@]forge&foster.ca
(888) 410-9440

in Editorial, Latest News, Tenant Spotlight Posted by wpengine

Alternative Investments: 8 New Ways to Grow Your Wealth

Are you looking to grow your wealth in new and innovative ways? If so, alternative investments may be the solution for you.

Alternative investments can include a wide range of options, such as fractional investing, venture capital, and more. By diversifying your portfolio with alternative investments, you can help reduce your risk while also increasing your potential for earnings.

So, if you’re ready to explore some new investment opportunities, read on for more details. Not only are these investments rising in popularity and becoming part of the average investor’s portfolio, but you may be surprised at just how beneficial they can be!

8 ALTERNATIVE INVESTMENTS

fractional investing

Fractional investing is a relatively new investment opportunity that allows you to invest in assets such as real estate, art, and wine. With fractional investing, you don’t have to purchase an entire asset – you can buy a small slice of it instead.

This makes it a more affordable option for investors, and it also allows you to diversify your portfolio more easily.

Fractional investing is a great way to get started in the alternative investment market because it allows you to invest in assets that you wouldn’t normally be able to afford.

This can be a great option for people who are new to investing and want to get their feet wet.

Remember, several different platforms offer fractional investing, so be sure to do your research before choosing one.

Invest in Success

We’re honoured to carry on the tradition of performance as stewards of the historic Karma Candy Building at 356 Emerald St. N. in Hamilton, and we’re excited to invite you to join us as co-owners of this property through BuyProperly.

Learn More

venture capital

Venture capital is an alternative investment that involves investing in early-stage companies. This can be high-risk, but it also has the potential for high returns. This investment is great for people who are willing to take on a little more risk to potentially earn a higher return, and for anyone that loves being a part of new and innovative ideas.

If you’re interested in venture capital, you’ll need to research the companies you’re considering investing in and be comfortable with the risks involved.

private equity

Private equity is the purchase of ownership in a company that is not publicly traded. This investment is typically made by a group of investors, and the goal is to improve the company’s performance and then sell it or take it public.

Private equity investing is a great option for people who want to be more hands-on with their investments and who are comfortable with a higher level of risk. Although private equity can be high-risk, it can also offer high returns.

art

Investing in art can be a great way to add some diversity to your portfolio. Art can be a good investment for both short-term and long-term goals, and it can appreciate in value over time. Art is a great investment for people who have an eye for aesthetics and who enjoy collecting.

When investing in art, it’s important to do your research and purchase pieces that you believe will hold or increase in value.

wine

Now we come to a fun (yet often overlooked!) investment opportunity.

Like art, wine is another asset that can appreciate in value over time. Wine is a popular alternative investment because it can be enjoyed both now and in the future. Some bottles can generate returns of 10-12% per year.

However, it’s important to remember that wine is a volatile investment, so you should only invest what you’re comfortable with losing.

It’s important to do your research before investing in wine, as some types of wine are more likely to appreciate in value than others.

peer-to-peer lending

Peer-to-peer lending is a form of alternative lending that allows investors to lend money to borrowers without going through a traditional bank. This can be a good option for people who are looking for lower interest rates and don’t want to go through the hassle of applying for a loan.

Peer-to-peer lending also offers the potential for high returns, but it’s important to remember that it can be a risky investment.

reits

Real estate investment trusts, or REITs, are a type of alternative investment that allows you to invest in real estate without actually buying property. REITs are an excellent option for people who want to invest in real estate but don’t have the time or resources to do it themselves.

REITs are a diverse investment, and there are many different types to choose from yielding a wide variety of returns. To get started investing in REITs, you can purchase shares on a stock exchange.

private placements

Private placements are alternative investments that are not available to the general public. They are typically only offered to accredited investors, which means they come with a higher level of risk. Private placements can be a good way to get access to alternative investments that you might not otherwise have access to.

You can find private placements through a variety of sources, such as angel investors, venture capitalists, and private equity firms.

When it comes to alternative investments, there are many options to choose from. New and innovative companies, technologies, and ideas make it easier than ever to get involved in lucrative projects!

It’s important to do your research and understand the risks involved before investing. These alternative investments can be a great way to add diversity to your portfolio and grow your wealth.

If you’re interested in getting started with real estate investing for only $2500, learn more about our latest opportunity with BuyProperly for the Karma Candy Building here.

in BuyProperly, Editorial, Latest News, Thought Leadership Posted by wpengine
karma candy building

Now You Can Enter the Real Estate Market With Just $500, Thanks to BuyProperly

“BuyProperly provides you with the benefits of investing in cities with huge capital appreciation — without bearing the brunt of high real estate costs,” says BuyProperly CEO Khushboo Jha. “Our mission is to enable investors like you to grow your wealth through alternate asset classes.”

With BuyProperly, you can enter the real estate market for just $500. Use the promo code BEGIN@500 at BuyProperly.ca to get started.

What is BuyProperly?

Founded in Toronto in 2019, BuyProperly is a fractional real estate investing platform that lets you enter the real estate market through a quick and easy online transaction.

Through BuyProperly.ca, you can go online and complete a fractional real estate investment with expected returns of 20 to 40% in less than 7 minutes.

“There’s only one objective: to give the customer’s options to invest in good deals. That’s it,” Khushboo told Bay Street Bull.

“There’s only one objective: to give the customer’s options to invest in good deals.”

— Khushboo Jha
BuyProperly CEO

BuyProperly grows your wealth by identifying high yield properties with a cutting-edge proprietary AI model.

You’ll earn passive rental income alongside your long-term investments. When a property is sold, your investment principal is paid back to you, plus appreciation.

How does it work?

BuyProperly’s selection process has three stages:

  1. First, using an AI model that looks at 20 years of MLS data, BuyProperly finds assets listed for less than their fair market value. This is determined through 500 million data points, including information on nearby schools, banks, neighbourhood shops, local demographics and economic data.
  2. Next, BuyProperly’s investment committee reviews actual, up-to-date numbers and data to detect red flags not captured in the initial evaluation.
  3. Then, BuyProperly undertakes an in-person inspection. Only 1% of properties reviewed pass BuyProperly’s rigorous evaluation and appear on the BuyProplerly website for you to invest in.

BuyProperly rents the fractionally-owned properties to high-quality, AAA tenants, earning you passive income alongside your long-term investments. In a few simple steps, you can open up a free account and start investing!

emerald street drone
Properties like the Karma Candy Building at 356 Emerald St. N. in Hamilton — which you can invest in on BuyProperly — offer tremendous upside potential.

What Are BuyProperly’s Main Benefits?

    • No need to qualify for a mortgage
    • No downpayment required
    • None of the pain of managing a property or being a landlord
    • No closing costs
    • No need to find tenants or maintain the property
    • You’ll get a share of rent and gains on the property when it’s sold

Properties like the Karma Candy Building at 356 Emerald St. N. in Hamilton  — which you can invest in on BuyProperly — offer tremendous upside potential.

The complex is 280,000 sq. ft and comprises industrial and office units. The property also includes 118 and 65 Shaw St. Karma Candy is set to lease back the entire property. 

What are the experts saying?

“I’ve had the fortunate opportunity to be a part of BuyProperly and Khushboo’s journey since the beginning,” Saurabh Dutta, Partner at Nurture Ventures, said in a statement. “The market need for fractional real estate investing is clear through the customer growth BuyProperly has seen in only a short amount of time.”

“Khushboo and her team created the new hidden gem of real estate investing,” Margaux Perrin said on Bay Street Estate Bull.

“Khushboo and her team created the new hidden gem of real estate investing.”

Margaux Perrin, Bay Street Bull

Here’s How to Join BuyProperly and Enter the Real Estate Market for $500

It’s quick and easy for you to create an account at BuyProperly.ca. Then, use the promo code Begin@500 at BuyProperly.ca to get started with an investment of just $500.

Are you interested but have a few more questions? The folks at BuyProperly are happy to chat! It’s quick and easy to schedule a call with them. Just book a meeting and choose a time that suits you best!

Book a meeting today
in BuyProperly, Editorial, Latest News Posted by wpengine

What Is Bad Credit?

Bad credit refers to a person’s history of not paying bills on time, as well as the possibility that they would do so in the future. A bad credit score is frequently the result. Companies can also have bad credit if their payment history and current financial status are not in good standing.

Because they are deemed riskier than other borrowers, a person (or company) with negative credit will find it difficult to borrow money, especially at competitive interest rates. This is true of all forms of loans, including both secured and unsecured ones, but the latter has some options.

Understanding Bad Credit

Most people who have ever borrowed money or applied for a credit card have a credit file with one of the three major credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion. The information in those files is used to calculate their credit score, which is a figure that serves as an indication to their creditworthiness and includes how much money they owe and whether they pay their payments on time. The FICO score, named after the Fair Isaac Corporation, is the most widely used credit score in the United States.

  1. 35%—payment history. This is given the most importance. It simply shows whether the person with the FICO score has paid their payments on time. Even a few days late can count, yet the longer the payment is late, the worse it is viewed.
  2. 30%—total amount an individual owes. Mortgages, credit card balances, vehicle loans, any bills in collections, court judgments, and other debts fall under this category. The person’s credit usage ratio, which compares how much money they have available to borrow (such as total credit card limits) to how much they owe at any given time, is ‌essential. A high credit usage ratio (say, greater than 20% or 30%) can be interpreted as a red flag and result in a worse credit score.
  3. 15%—length of a person’s credit history.
  4. 10%—mix of credit types. Mortgages, vehicle loans, and credit cards are all examples of this.
  5. 10%—new credit. This includes any jobs or internships that someone has recently started or applied for.
Examples of Bad Credit

FICO scores range from 300 to 850 and debtors with scores of 579 or lower are typically considered having poor credit. 

Fair is described as a score between 580 and 669. These borrowers are significantly less likely to default on loans, making them far less hazardous to lend to than individuals with poor credit scores. However, consumers in this range may incur higher interest rates or have difficulty obtaining loans than borrowers with credit scores closer to the top 850.

How to Improve Bad Credit

There are things you may take if you have low credit (or fair credit) to raise your credit score above 669 and keep it there. Here are some pointers on how to do just that.

Set Up Automatic Online Payments

Do this for all of your credit cards and loans, or at the very least, sign up for the lenders’ email or text reminder lists. This will ensure that you pay at least the monthly minimum on time.

Pay Down Credit Card Debt

Whenever workable, pay more than the minimum payment due. Set a reasonable payback target and strive toward it over time. Paying more than the minimum due will help you increase your credit score if you have a lot of total credit card debt.

Check Interest Rate Disclosures

These disclosures are provided by credit card accounts. Concentrate on paying off the debts with the highest interest rates first. This will free up the most money, which you can then use to pay down other obligations with lower interest rates.

Keep Unused Credit Card Accounts Open

Keep your unused credit card accounts open. Also, don’t create any new accounts that you don’t require. Either action has the potential to harm your credit score.

If you’re having trouble getting a conventional credit card because of your bad credit, consider applying for a secured credit card. It works in the same way as a bank debit card in that you can only spend the amount you have on the deposit. Having a secured card and making timely payments on it can help you rehabilitate your credit and eventually qualify for a regular card if you have a low credit history. It’s also a wonderful approach for young individuals to build their credit history.

Looking for a stress-free way to get started in real estate investing? Check out our current offering with Buy Properly. Buy Properly utilizes a fractional ownership concept to assist investors to build their real estate portfolios. Click here to learn more. >>

in BuyProperly, Editorial, Thought Leadership Posted by wpengine

What Is Collateral?

what is collateral?

Collateral is a term used to describe an asset that a lender accepts as security for a loan. Depending on the purpose of the loan, collateral can be real estate or other types of assets. For the lender, the collateral serves as a type of insurance. If the borrower defaults on their loan payments, the lender can seize and sell the collateral to recoup some or all of their losses.

how collateral works

A lender wants to ensure that you’ll be able to repay the loan before giving it to you. As a result, many of them require some level of protection. Collateral is a type of security that reduces the risk for lenders and ensures that the borrower fulfills their financial obligations. If the borrower defaults, then the lender has the option to seize the collateral and sell it, with the proceeds going toward the unpaid amount of the loan. To reclaim any leftover balance, the lender can take legal action against the borrower. 

As previously stated, collateral can take many forms. It usually refers to the type of loan; for example, a mortgage is secured by the residence, but a car loan is secured by the vehicle in issue. Other assets can be used to secure non-specific personal loans. For example, a secured credit card can require a cash deposit equal to the credit limit, such as $500 for a $500 credit limit.

Collateral-backed loans often have lower interest rates than unsecured loans. A lien is a legal right or claim on an asset to satisfy a debt that a lender has on the collateral of a borrower. The borrower has a powerful incentive to repay the loan on time because, if they don’t, they risk losing their home or other collateralized assets.

types of collateral

The type of loan frequently determines the nature of the collateral. Your home becomes the collateral when you take out a mortgage. If you take out a car loan, the car becomes the loan’s collateral. Cars, bank savings deposits, and investment accounts are all frequent forms of collateral that lenders accept. In most cases, retirement accounts are not accepted as collateral.

Future paychecks can also be used as security for very short-term loans, not just payday loans. Traditional banks provide such loans, which are typically for a few weeks. Even if you have a true emergency, you should read the fine print and compare rates before taking out one of these short-term loans.

COLLATERALIZED PERSONAL LOANS

A collateralized personal loan is a type of borrowing in which the borrower pledges an object of value as security for the loan. The collateral must be worth at least as much as the loan amount. If you’re looking for a secured personal loan, your best bet is to go with a financial institution with which you already do business, especially if your collateral is your savings account. If you already have a relationship with the bank, it will be more likely to approve the loan and provide you with a reasonable interest rate.

Examples of collateral loans

RESIDENTIAL MORTGAGES
A mortgage is a loan that uses your home as collateral. If a homeowner fails to pay their mortgage for more than 120 days, the loan company can initiate legal action, which could result in the lender taking possession of the home through foreclosure. The property might be sold to satisfy the remaining principal on the loan once it has been transferred to the lender.
HOME EQUITY LOANS
A home can also be used to secure a second mortgage or a home equity line of credit (HELOC). The loan amount will not exceed the available equity in this scenario. For example, if a home is worth $200,000 and the primary mortgage balance is $125,000, a second mortgage or HELOC will only be available for up to $75,000.
MARGIN TRADING
Margin trading also considers securitized loans. An investor uses the balance in his or her brokerage account as collateral to borrow money from a broker to gain shares. The loan increases the number of shares an investor can purchase, hence boosting the potential gains if the value of the shares rises. However, the risks are amplified as well. If the value of the shares drops, the broker will demand payment of the difference. If the borrower fails to cover the loss, the account acts as collateral.

While stock market trading may be dangerous, and real estate investing can be time-consuming, Buy Properly combines the best of both worlds. Buy Properly, a fractional real estate company, lets anyone with just $2,500 participate in real estate. This novel idea is similar to stock investment but without the hassles of real estate ownership. Interested? We knew you would be. Check out our latest opportunity – the Karma Candy Building – on Buy Properly (limited availability, don’t wait to invest!).

in BuyProperly, Editorial, Thought Leadership Posted by wpengine

What is an Accredited Investor?

FIRST THINGS FIRST, WHY ACCREDITED INVESTING?

Accredited investing opens up a whole shiny new world of investing made available to you. These include private equity, venture capital, angel investing, and hedge funding.  

WHAT IS AN ACCREDITED INVESTOR?

The accredited investor is someone who has a special status so that they can have investments that are typically more high-risk. While this definition varies from country to country, it also varies from province to province. While there’s no formal process in Ontario, legislation requires that you meet specific criteria to participate in certain investments. This simply means you’ll need to be prepared to provide documentation proving you meet the criteria.

THE CRITERIA

 According to the Ontario Securities Commission (OSC), an accredited investor means you have a:

  • Net income before taxes of more than $200,000 in each of the two most recent calendar years and expected net income of more than $200,000 in the current calendar year.
  • Net income before taxes combined with a spouse of more than $300,000 in each of the two most recent calendar years and expected combined net income of more than $300,000 in the current calendar year.
  • Financial assets, alone or with a spouse, of at least $1 million before taxes but net of related liabilities
  • Financial assets include cash and bank deposits but not the value of a house.
  • Net assets, alone or with a spouse of at least $5 million. Net assets generally include all of your assets after subtracting your debt.

Contact the OSC’s Inquiries & Contact Centre to learn more about these rules.

Are you an accredited investor?

Connect with us today.
in Editorial Posted by wpengine
Plage Saint-Pierre Beach & Campground

Now you can invest in oceanfront real estate with as little as $1,000

Co-own a Nova Scotia beach destination through FrontFundr with Forge & Foster

Soaring real estate prices have locked many Canadians out of the market — and the wealth gains that come with ownership.

“For too long, real estate has been behind closed doors and not accessible to everyone,” says Joe Accardi, Partner & CEO of Forge & Foster. “We want to bring real estate to all Canadians, and FrontFundr is something that we’re really excited about.”

 

WHAT IS FRONTFUNDR?

FrontFundr is Canada’s leading online private markets investing platform and an exempt market dealer. 

Founded in Vancouver in 2013, the startup’s mission is to democratize the private sector investment model by offering companies an alternative to venture and private equity investing.

FrontFundr provides investors with the opportunity to invest in startups and growth companies. Their online platform allows all Canadians — from professionals to first-time investors —to support the ideas and initiatives they want to see succeed. 

 

 

The company has built up a community of over 34,000 users, run over 100 successful funding campaigns, and helped businesses raise more than $120 million so far.

“You might think you can only invest in Wealthsimple and public stocks, but you can also invest in early stage companies from the very beginning.”

“We’re missionaries to spread the word around equity crowdfunding, in general,” says Peter-Paul Van Hoeken, the founder and CEO of Silver Maple Ventures, FrontFundr’s parent company. “Creating awareness has been a huge job for our company in the last five years. You might think you can only invest in Wealthsimple and public stocks, but you can also invest in early stage companies from the very beginning.”

 

TELL ME ABOUT THE PROPERTY

The Plage Saint-Pierre Beach and Campground in Cheticamp, Nova Scotia, sits on 2,500 feet of private beach along one of the province’s warmest bays.

The nearby Cabot Cape Breton Golf Club is a popular destination. Visitors also enjoy hiking, whale watching, berry picking, stargazing, kayaking, cycling, dining on fresh seafood and more.

The popular destination boasts quaint cabins, RV rentals, and sites for tents and RVs. However, there is plenty of opportunity for improvement and expansion.

Situated at the gateway of the world-famous Cape Breton Highlands National Park and just off the Cabot Trail, this real estate investment property is packed with potential. And Forge & Foster is ready to unlock that potential through its unparalleled expertise in real estate management. 

“Never before have people had the opportunity to invest in spectacular real estate like this, starting at just $1,000.”

Joe Accardi, Partner and CEO at Forge & Foster Investment Management, said, “This is a very special opportunity for investors and we’re excited to offer it through our trusted partner, FrontFundr. Never before have people had the opportunity to invest in spectacular real estate like this, starting at just $1,000.”

WHY FRONTFUNDR? 

Here are the main benefits of investing in real estate through FrontFundr:

  • No fees
  • Pride of ownership
  • No need to qualify for a mortgage
  • No down payment required
  • None of the pain of managing a property
  • No closing costs
  • No need to find tenants or maintain the property
  • You’ll get a share of rent and gains on the property when it’s sold
  • You’ll receive ongoing oversight and support
  • Every investment project undergoes a detailed due diligence process

“Join FrontFundr. Take a look at their projects. You can invest in a project that you’re excited about,” says Accardi.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Great platform to invest in early stage enterprise
The investment process was straightforward and well explained.
—Jean-Philippe Deblois, Trust Pilot

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Great platform that is intuitive and easy to use!
Good access to detailed prospectus and pitch info. The digital signing process is simple and efficient. Private company investing has never been this easy or accessible.
— Ken Smith, Trust Pilot

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I feel fully confident that I am making sound investment decisions for myself. FrontFundr is an essential platform to democratize investing into early stage companies that have huge potential to add value.
— Leon Lie, Trust Pilot

 

WHAT ARE THE EXPERTS SAYING?

“Small investments in multiple projects add up over time. That makes it appealing for young people who want to get in the habit of investing.”

“I feel that real estate crowdfunding can be a viable tool for those who want to invest in real estate but are restricted due to a lack of money or credit,” says Mark Ting, CBC’s finance columnist. “Small investments in multiple projects add up over time. That makes it appealing for young people who want to get in the habit of investing.”

“A crowdfunded model comes with transparency and tangibility,” Tina Tehranchian, an Assante Capital Management Ltd. senior wealth adviser told the Globe and Mail. “You can drive by the property and boast to your friends that you have a share of ownership of this property.”

HOW DO I JOIN?

Sign up for FrontFundr now — there’s no fee to join!

Plage Saint-Pierre Beach & Campground is currently raising $595,000. Details of the offering can be found at frontfundr.com/forgeandfoster. 

Screen shot of FrontFundr website

To book a stay at Plage Saint-Pierre Beach & Campground, visit plagestpierre.com or contact plagesaintpierre@gmail.com or (902) 224-2112.

 

in Editorial Posted by wpengine
A selection of luxury watches

Grow Your Wealth While Managing The Risks With Diversification

Every investment carries some amount of risk. Since markets can be volatile and unpredictable, diversifying your portfolio helps maximize returns over the long term as well as better protect yourself against unexpected market downturns.

This article will talk about what diversification is, its importance, and how you can diversify your investment portfolio. Moreover, we will also shed some light on the benefits of illiquidity and how real estate investments can help you enhance your returns.

Let’s get started!

Diversification: Why It’s Crucial for Your Portfolio?

Diversification is the most crucial step in risk management. It is the investment technique of holding unrelated investments across asset classes that react differently to social and economic events.

Diversification is a technique that is crucial for investors to reach their long-term goals as it enables them to hedge against unsystematic risk and build wealth over a period across different asset classes. Using diversification, an intelligent investor reduces the risk by planning carefully and allocating funds across various asset classes.

For instance, in a growing economy, stocks generally outperform bonds. However, when market conditions change, bonds hold their value, whereas stock prices tumble. Thus, if a smart investor diversifies their investment portfolio and holds both stocks and bonds, they can reduce their overall exposure to such change in market conditions and mitigate the risks of their portfolio taking a big hit.

Investment Portfolio Diversification: How to Achieve it?

An investor can diversify their portfolio by using the asset allocation strategy, which involves selecting a combination of investments based on the investors’ risk profile, financial goals, and time horizon.

Each asset class available to investors have different risk-reward ratios, and thus, each performs differently in varying market conditions. For instance, while stocks are more volatile and risky in comparison to bonds, they also offer the potential for higher returns.

Some of the standard asset allocation classes include the following:

  • Equities (Stocks and ETFs)
  • Fixed Income Bonds
  • Real Estate
  • Gold
  • Cryptocurrency
  • Collectables
  • Cash and cash equivalents

Diversified Portfolio Example

Source: Cary Stamp & Co.

While diversification is essential, it’s equally important not to over diversify. The best way for an investor to do so is to keep their portfolio at a manageable level that varies for each investor based on their financial goals and risk profiles. For instance, avoiding diversification for some investors could mean only holding six assets in different industries that they are confident about. Whereas, for others, it could mean avoiding investment in certain asset classes that they don’t understand, just for the sake of diversification.

The Benefits of Illiquidity

Liquidity refers to the ease with which an asset can be converted to cash and cash equivalents without losing market value. In general, it is seen that liquid assets such as stocks are more volatile in nature. Thus, to capture the benefits of illiquidity, long-term investors may prefer allocating funds towards illiquid assets.

Typically, illiquid assets have a low correlation to the broader stock market, and thus, they are less volatile in nature, and their value remains stable over a more extended period. As a result, such investments are considered low beta investments that are less risky but offer lower returns. As a result, such investments help minimize portfolio losses when the market sees a downturn.

How to Enhance Portfolio Diversification Using Real Estate

Real Estate Investment is the process of purchasing property to either rent it out or sell it to make a profit. As an asset class, real estate is mainly used for diversification purposes and has helped investors amass generational wealth.

Diversifying your portfolio by investing in real estate offers the following benefits:

  • Long-term stability – Real estate market is seen as one of the most stable financial markets. Thus, real estate investment is considered to be a less volatile and stable long-term investment opportunity.
  • Usability – Real estate is a tangible asset that investors can use for renting out or for personal use. For example, real estate bought for diversification purposes can be rented out and used to generate additional income.
  • Mitigating Risks – Real estate is an illiquid asset and thus, is not highly correlated to the stock market. Hence, many investors use real estate to hedge their risks against more volatile assets in their portfolios.
  • Tax Benefits –  Governments in many countries offer tax benefits on real estate investment to promote the sale of properties in the country and boost the economy.

Additionally, there are many different ways through which investors can invest in real estate. They are as follows:

  • Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) – REITs enable investors to invest in real estate even with small amounts of money. Shares of REIT stocks can be bought and sold in the market just like any other publicly listed company.
  • Crowdfunding Real Estate Platforms – These online platforms let investors take a more hands-on approach and invest in specific real estate development projects.
  • Investing in Rental Properties – Purchasing rental properties enables investors to add an alternative source of cash flow and earn some additional monthly income.

Important Questions to Ask About Your Portfolio Diversification

To diversify your portfolio successfully, an investor first needs to understand the fundamentals of diversification and ask the right questions to evaluate how these fundamentals apply to their specific portfolio.

Here are some critical questions about your portfolio diversification to evaluate your diversification strategy and make more informed choices.

  1. What is my risk tolerance? – This changes according to investment objectives and time horizon. Each asset class has different risks. Hence, investors must choose an asset class that is suitable to their risk tolerance.
  2. What is my risk-adjusted rate of return? – This question answers how well you are being compensated for the amount of risk you’re taking.
  3. How many asset classes should I invest in? – While diversifying your portfolio, it’s important to look for a wide range of asset classes.

Closing Thoughts

As an investor, to achieve your long-term financial goals, you need to balance your risk and reward. Diversification allows you to choose a mix of assets that reduce the risk of losses in the market. Thus, it’s essential to find the right balance between risk and return and select a mix of assets that can help you achieve your financial goals while limiting your exposure to unsystematic risks.

in Editorial, Thought Leadership Posted by wpengine

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