Engel & Völkers
  • 4 min read
  • 05.08.2024

How to make money in real estate: profitable strategies

The real estate market is increasingly lucrative, but for those looking to invest and make money, it’s essential to know where and when to invest. Here are some profitable strategies.

A good strategy is essential to make money in real estate. This approach can help ensure a stable income and, above all, grow the value of your investment over time. In this article, we share eight Engel & Völkers tips for all types of investors.

Buying and selling properties to make money

The most well-known and commonly used way to make money in real estate is by purchasing and reselling properties. This strategy involves acquiring undervalued properties, making improvements to increase their market value, and then selling the properties at a higher price.

Buying and selling properties also allow investors to benefit from natural market appreciation. In developing areas, such as expanding neighborhoods or tourist zones, high demand can quickly drive up prices. By spotting these trends, investors can find great opportunities to buy properties at lower prices and sell them for more, securing consistent profits.

Adding renovations before resale can also boost returns. Renovating older or deteriorated properties has high-profit potential, as it not only enhances the property’s value but also aligns it with current market trends, increasing the likelihood of a successful sale at a premium price.

Investing in rental properties

Another popular way to make money in real estate is by renting out properties. Rental properties offer a stable, long-term income source. This strategy also enables investors to retain ownership of the property, benefiting both from monthly rental income and from property appreciation over time. This approach gives the flexibility to sell when it’s most advantageous or necessary.

Properties can be rented out for residential or commercial purposes. Residential leases generally provide more stability, while commercial leases often command higher rental rates.

Exploring short-term rentals

Short-term rentals are mainly geared towards tourists and are one of the most profitable ways to make money in real estate in major cities. This type of rental allows property owners to rent out their spaces for brief periods, such as a week or even a month, to tourists or business travelers.

Using platforms like Airbnb or Booking can streamline the booking process for your property. However, we advise checking local regulations on short-term rentals, as some cities have recently introduced more restrictive measures.

Using your property for commercial purposes

Commercial properties, such as retail spaces, offices, or warehouses, present an excellent investment opportunity. When investing in commercial real estate, rental income tends to be higher than in residential properties, and leases are generally long-term, minimizing vacancy risks.

Commercial leases, particularly those with businesses, are often lengthy as tenants seek stability for their operations. Additionally, many businesses take on maintenance costs, which can enhance your property’s value without additional expense on your part.

Investing in luxury properties

Making money in real estate is often most effective in the luxury property market. This approach is highly profitable for those seeking substantial returns. This segment is ideal in areas with high demand for sophisticated homes, such as affluent city neighborhoods or upscale tourist destinations.

Buyers in the luxury segment value quality, exclusivity, and location, allowing investors to set premium prices for both sales and rentals. Luxury properties also tend to hold or increase their value, even during economic downturns, due to the selective demand and high purchasing power of the clientele.

Investing in real estate funds

Investing doesn’t necessarily mean buying and renting or reselling properties. If it aligns better with your profile, you can invest in Real Estate Investment Funds (REITs). These allow investors to contribute to large-scale real estate projects, such as shopping centers, hospitals, and hotels, without needing to own properties directly.

Investing in funds also offers the advantage of diversification, as you can place your money in different types of properties within the same fund, which helps reduce investment risks.

Acquiring properties at auctions

If your goal is to make money in real estate, property auctions can offer unique opportunities to acquire properties at reduced prices. Properties sold at auction are usually those recovered by banks or other entities looking to recoup their investments, often selling at below-market values.

Buying a property at auction allows investors to resell or rent it for profit. However, it’s essential to thoroughly assess the property beforehand, as some may have legal issues or require repairs that could offset potential gains.

Choosing properties in developing areas

Those who study and work in real estate are already aware of the importance of location when deciding how and where to invest. Recognizing areas undergoing development can significantly impact profitability, making this one of the most effective strategies.

Neighborhoods with growing infrastructure and future appreciation potential offer opportunities to buy low and sell high. Over time, increased demand can drive up property prices in these areas, resulting in substantial profits.

To identify developing areas, study and consult local public works and urban development plans. A high number of projects in an area is usually a sign of increased investment.

With these tips for profitable strategies in real estate, we conclude that adopting a strategy that aligns with your investment profile and target market can ensure a significant return and help you achieve your financial goals and make money in real estate.

The real estate market offers a variety of profitable strategies for those seeking to invest and obtain significant returns. Whether through property purchases and sales, rentals, or commercial real estate investments, the opportunities are vast and accessible to all types of investors. If you’re ready to explore these opportunities and seek professional guidance, contact our team. We’re here to help you succeed in real estate and turn your investments into real profits.

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Av. da Liberdade 196, 7 andar

1250-096 Lisboa, Portugal

Tel: +351 210 200 490