Boost Cash Flow & Outsmart Inflation: 5 Retail Property Strategies!

Marc Perlof • May 18, 2023

Insight 1: Smart Rent Adjustments to Beat Inflation


Problem: Your retail real estate investment's true value is being eroded by stagnant rental income growth that cannot keep up with inflation.


Solution: If you want to make sure that your rental income keeps up with inflation, use a clever technique of annual rent increases correlated to the Consumer Price Index (CPI).


Benefit: By keeping rent increases in line with inflation, you'll protect the value of your retail real estate investment and preserve purchasing power.


Tips:

a) Investigate historical CPI trends in your area to comprehend local inflation rates.

b) Reassess your lease agreements and contemplate adding a CPI-linked rent increase clause.

c) Communicate transparently with your tenants about the logic behind these adjustments, emphasizing the mutual benefits of preserving property value.



Insight 2: Using Equity to Expand Your Portfolio


Problem: The value of your property has increased, but you aren't using that equity to increase your passive income.


Solution: To invest in more high-yield retail buildings, think about refinancing or obtaining an equity line of credit (ELOC).


Benefit: By using the equity in your property, you can continue to own your current property while acquiring additional assets that provide income.


Tips:

a) Consult a retail real estate expert to determine the optimal refinancing or ELOC alternatives for your situation.

b) Investigate promising retail property markets with potential for lucrative returns.

c) Develop a well-defined plan for employing the borrowed funds to maximize the benefits of this strategy.



Insight 3 : Benefits to Taxes of Strategic Property Improvements


Problem: You're disregarding the tax benefits and advantages of depreciation related to property renovations.


Solution: Invest in property improvements that add value, improve tenant contentment, and raise the asset's overall value.


Benefit: By making tactical adjustments, you'll increase cash flow and take advantage of tax breaks.


Tips:

a) Pinpoint high-impact upgrades that will entice tenants and elevate property value.

b) Consult a tax advisor to comprehend the full scope of deductions and depreciation benefits available.

c) Strategize and budget for upgrades to minimize disruption to tenants and maximize return on investment.



Insight 4: Benefits of Triple Net Lease (NNN)


Problem: Managing retail properties is a lot of work and takes your attention away from increasing your wealth.


Solution: Switch to a triple net lease arrangement where tenants are responsible for upkeep, insurance, and property taxes.


Benefit: By adopting a hands-off approach, you free up time and energy to focus on refining your retail real estate investment plan.


Tips:

a) Evaluate your current lease structure and ascertain if a transition to NNN leases is viable.

b) Consult with a real estate attorney to draft or revise lease agreements.

c) Communicate the advantages of this lease structure to tenants, emphasizing the increased autonomy and predictability it provides.



Insight 5: Using Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) to diversify


Problem: Investing too heavily in retail properties exposes your portfolio to market risk and volatility.


Solution: Invest in Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) that are focused on different property kinds to diversify your investing portfolio.


Benefit: A diversified portfolio reduces risk and exposure while offering the chance for greater returns in the market for commercial real estate.


Tips:

a) Research a variety of REITs to find those focused on property types that complement your existing retail real estate investments.

b) Consult an experienced retail real estate agent to determine the ideal allocation of your investment capital.

c) Regularly review your portfolio to ensure it remains balanced and aligned with your financial objectives.


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