Recession-Proof Real Estate Investing (2024)

The real estate market has experienced its fair share of ups and downs, with economic recessions posing significant challenges for investors. However, amidst the volatility, some strategies can help navigate the stormy waters and provide stability even during economic downturns. In this article, we will explore the concept of recession-proof real estate investing, specifically focusing on real estate syndication.

Understanding Recession-Proof Real Estate Investing

Let’s look at how recession-proof real estate investing is best done and how it helps protect the investor’s money.

What Makes Real Estate a Resilient Asset Class?

A property that is a resilient asset class is anything that remains in demand throughout economic downturns. For example, multifamily properties or senior living facilities will always garner interest as people need a place to live and a place to receive healthcare.

Resilient asset-class properties are the most likely to be recession-proof investments. If you’re unsure whether a property is a safe investment, ask whether there will continue to be demand for it during economic struggles.

Characteristics of Recession-Proof Real Estate Investments

Determining whether your real estate investment is recession-proof comes down to key indicators. Essential property types such as multifamily housing or healthcare facilities that will continue to be in demand during a recession remain a good investment.

Geographic factors can be a significant characteristic to understand in the recession-proof market. Where you’re investing will determine how impactful the recession will be, as some neighborhoods and regions are more susceptible to recession than others.

Diversification of your investment portfolio can be a great way to avoid geographic factors of a recession. Putting money into multiple city regions or splitting investment between residential and commercial buildings is one tool to prevent financial loss.

Properties that offer long-term income potential and value preservation are fantastic examples of recession-proof characteristics. By holding value and demand throughout and after a recession, investors are more likely to profit from a property than one without a guarantee of long-term income.

Real Estate Syndication as a Recession-Proof Strategy

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One popular method of recession-proof real estate investment is real estate syndication. A group of investors can better navigate property management than a sole investor.

Introduction to Real Estate Syndication as an Investment Vehicle

Real estate syndication is when a group of investors pool their money to make a more substantial investment. Significant commercial real estate investments are made possible through syndication.

The structure of a real estate syndicate is typically what makes it such a secure investment. Syndicates are usually led by a single sponsor or multiple partners with a stake in the investment. These “Sponsors” or “Managers” are responsible for decision-making and investment allocation.

Below them is everyone else who pools their money into an investment. These “Investors” in the structure have a say regarding where their money goes, but the final decision ultimately falls to the Sponsors.

Benefits of Real Estate Syndication in a Recession-Proof Portfolio

So what makes real estate syndication so recession-proof? Most syndicates are owned and operated by professional investors who understand the market and know where best to invest. Larger commercial or residential properties fare better during recessions than small investments, so syndicates can help protect your money.

Syndicates also diversify their investments, allowing investors to decide where their money goes. Diversifying your assets helps protect against one market crash being the end of your investment. If commercial properties are subject to recession difficulties, residential investments will remain profitable or vice versa.

Some of the most significant benefits of real estate syndication are as follows:

  • Diversification and access to resilient property types
  • Professional management and risk mitigation
  • Pooling resources for larger-scale investments

When done right, real estate syndication will protect your investment against recession. Proper management practices and informed investments can lead to a steady flow of passive income for all who invest in the syndicate.

Recession-Proof Real Estate Investment Strategies

What real estate properties are the best investments to make during or before a recession? Some properties are recession-resistant, others are recession-proof. Knowing which properties will keep your investment safe during a downturn will help protect you from the economic turmoil many real estate investors undergo.

Multifamily Properties

During a recession, higher demand for more affordable housing options exists. This rise in demand makes multifamily properties like apartment buildings or duplexes excellent investment opportunities for real estate owners. Decreased cost for residents becomes more appealing during a recession, leading to increased demand for rental options like multifamily property.

Historically, multifamily properties have been a source of stability for real estate investors. They provide a steady source of income through rent, and there is always a demand for occupancy. The risks associated with owning a multifamily property are much lower during a recession than a single-occupancy home.

Healthcare and Senior Housing

Healthcare and senior housing facilities are needs-based properties, meaning that even during a recession, they need to exist. Continual rising demand for healthcare and senior care facilities means more properties must be developed. Owning or developing your own healthcare facility will be a low-risk investment as there is a high demand guarantee for the property, even during a recession.

The rise in the elderly population means that a healthcare or senior living facility affords ample room for growth. Improvements in healthcare mean longer life expectancy. Longer life expectancy leads to increases in elderly populations. This correlation bodes well for long-term growth in healthcare or senior housing real estate investment and translates to a stable cash flow.

Industrial and Logistics Properties

Supply chains are relatively resilient when it comes to recessions. There is always a demand for global shipments to continue, and as long as E-commerce continues to operate, there remains a demand for storage space.

The demand for storage space means that warehousing space and distribution centers are among the best real estate investments to be made before a recession. Owning space where clients can store unused products or act as an intermediary on the supply chain will protect your investment when other properties dry up.

Essential Retail Properties

Many retail industries are considered “recession-resistant” as they continue to be in demand, even when income is impacted. Industries such as grocery stores, healthcare, and gas distributors remain stable during a recession and rarely show a downturn. Investing in essential retail properties helps protect your return on investment.

While some retail sectors are relatively recession-proof, location still plays a decisive role in how safe your investment is. Some locations are more susceptible to recession than others, so consider local income stats and prior recession history when buying retail real estate.

Mitigating Risks in Recession-Proof Real Estate Investing

Focusing your investments on recession-proof and recession-resistant real estate is a great first step to securing your financials during a recession, but it’s not a protection guarantee. Historically, recession-proof properties can be subject to failure if outside factors are not addressed.

Here are some tips on how to properly mitigate the risks associated with recession-proof real estate investing:

By getting ahead of any market crashes or property issues, you can effectively prepare your investments against any worst-case situations. Mitigating the risks means preparation. Reactionary mitigation is much more difficult, especially during a recession.

Recession-proof real estate investing has proven to be a resilient strategy, offering stability and potential for growth even in times of economic uncertainty. By embracing real estate syndication, investors can further fortify their positions, mitigating risks through pooled resources and diversified portfolios. During periods of economic strife, syndication enables investors to access a broader range of properties and markets, tapping into collective expertise and capital, thereby enhancing their ability to weather downturns and capitalize on opportunities.

By carefully selecting trustworthy syndicators and diligently analyzing potential deals, investors can optimize their chances of achieving consistent returns and long-term prosperity in the ever-evolving real estate investment landscape.

Recession-Proof Real Estate Investing (2024)

FAQs

What is the best real estate investment during a recession? ›

Multi-family properties, such as apartment buildings, can be a good investment during a recession. They can provide a steady stream of rental income and are often more stable than single-family homes. Commercial properties, such as office buildings and retail spaces, may also be a good investment during a recession.

What real estate is recession-proof? ›

Best Investments During a Recession

Multifamily real estate tends to outperform other asset classes despite economic swings. As noted above, demand for multifamily often increases during a recession as homeowners are displaced and forced back into the rental market.

Is it smart to buy real estate during a recession? ›

Buying a house during a recession

But if you can afford to, it's not necessarily a bad time to buy. In fact, if you remain financially stable, Miller argues a recession can actually be a good time to buy a home. “Some people hold off on buying when this happens, but I think this is a mistake,” he says.

How to build a recession-proof real estate portfolio? ›

Building a Recession-Proof Real Estate Investment Portfolio
  1. Diversify Property Types. ...
  2. Build Positive Cash Flow. ...
  3. Understand Financing Options. ...
  4. Research Stability. ...
  5. Watch Local Amenities. ...
  6. Refinance for Lower Rates. ...
  7. Invest Without Buying. ...
  8. Win Some, Lose Some.
Apr 24, 2024

Where is your money safest during a recession? ›

Still, here are seven types of investments that could position your portfolio for resilience if recession is on your mind:
  • Defensive sector stocks and funds.
  • Dividend-paying large-cap stocks.
  • Government bonds and top-rated corporate bonds.
  • Treasury bonds.
  • Gold.
  • Real estate.
  • Cash and cash equivalents.
Nov 30, 2023

Is it better to own or rent during a recession? ›

Conclusion. The rental market does well during a recession and when home prices are high because most people cannot afford to purchase homes in either scenario. So you really have nothing to worry about as a rental property owner.

Do houses get cheaper in a recession? ›

Home prices might also change during a recession. While the cost of financing a home typically rises when interest rates rise, home prices may fall.

How to make money in real estate during a recession? ›

Which recession-proof real estate investments to choose
  1. Flipping.
  2. Wholesaling.
  3. Single family buy-and-holds.
  4. Multifamily.
  5. Private and hard money lending.
  6. Note investing.
  7. Commercial real estate.

Is it better to wait for a recession to buy a house? ›

Buying a house during a recession can be a good idea if you are qualified and willing to wait for prices to drop. However, there are risks during any economic downturn. Recession buyers will need a high credit score, strong finances, and stable income.

What income is recession-proof? ›

Investing in rental properties can be an excellent source of passive income. Even during a recession, people still need a place to live. By purchasing residential or commercial properties and renting them out, you can generate a steady stream of income.

What are the three things that are recession-proof? ›

Of the Global Industry Classification Standard (GICS) 11 stock sectors, consumer staples, utilities, healthcare, and energy are among the most recession resistant. That is because they are always in demand regardless of the state of the business cycle.

How to make money recession-proof? ›

Ways to protect your finances during a recession
  1. Cut living expenses.
  2. Build an emergency fund.
  3. Develop new skills.
  4. Speak with a financial adviser.
  5. Create passive income sources.
  6. Start a business.
Jan 5, 2024

What should a realtor do in a recession? ›

  1. How Real Estate Agents Can Make MORE Money During a Recession. ...
  2. The Lucrative Real Estate Side-Hustle: Income Potential of a Notary Loan Signing Agent. ...
  3. Benefits of Making Money as a Loan Signing Agent. ...
  4. Take a Break From the 6 Month Real Estate Sales Cycle. ...
  5. During a Recession, Loan Signing Activity Can Go UP!

Do real estate investment trusts do well in recession? ›

REITs allow investors to pool their money and purchase real estate properties. By law, a REIT must pay at least 90% of its income to its shareholders, providing investors with a passive income option that can be helpful during recessions.

Is cash king in a recession? ›

It will give them the funds to buy stocks or other assets during the decline. Because of how precious cash can be during times of financial stress, many have said that cash is king. The phrase means that having liquid funds available can be vital because of the flexibility it provides during a crisis.

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