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Bank Insurance: How Does FDIC Deposit Insurance Work?

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When it comes to banking, safety or deposit insurance is a top concern for depositors. The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) was created to help ensure that depositors’ funds are protected in the event of bank failures. Depositing money in a bank is a common practice for many individuals and businesses alike. However, it is important to understand the risks and potential consequences associated with bank failures.

The FDIC deposit insurance offers peace of mind and protection to depositors, but it's important to know how it works and what is covered. By understanding the FDIC deposit insurance, depositors can make informed decisions and safeguard their hard-earned money. In this article, we'll explore the basics of FDIC deposit insurance and how it can benefit depositors.

But, why is everyone talking about deposit insurance these days? After the Silicon Valley Bank collapse on March 10, 2023, depositors began to worry about the safety of their money in the bank. This incident led to a widespread discussion about the importance of deposit insurance and the need to understand coverage limits. Many people became anxious about their money, especially those who had deposits above the FDIC insurance limit of $250,000.

The collapse of SVB, with its connections to wealthy tech startups and venture capital, highlighted the need for depositors to understand the risks involved with keeping large sums of money in a single bank. This incident served as a reminder to everyone about the importance of diversifying their deposits across multiple institutions and understanding the coverage limits provided by deposit insurance.

ALSO READ: List of Failed Banks in the United States

However, the FDIC, Federal Reserve, and Treasury Department announced that all depositors would have access to their money, regardless of the $250,000 cap, easing worries about the effectiveness of FDIC insurance.

What is the FDIC?

The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) is an independent U.S. government agency that provides deposit insurance to protect depositors in case of bank failures. It was established in 1933 in response to the wave of bank failures during the Great Depression, which resulted in millions of Americans losing their savings.

FDIC insurance protects depositors' funds in case of bank failure, up to the FDIC insurance limit. The FDIC is funded by premiums paid by insured banks and earnings from investments in U.S. Treasury securities. Since the FDIC's inception, no depositor has lost a single cent of insured funds as a result of a bank failure.

ALSO READ: Which Banks Are in Danger of Failing or Collapse in 2023?

FDIC insurance covers all types of deposits, including checking and savings accounts, certificates of deposit (CDs), money market deposit accounts, and trust accounts. The current standard insurance amount is $250,000 per depositor, per insured bank, for each account ownership category.

It's important to note that FDIC insurance only applies to deposits in FDIC-insured banks. Not all financial institutions are FDIC-insured, such as credit unions, investment firms, and money market funds. If you have deposits in an institution that is not FDIC-insured, your deposits may not be protected in case of bank failure.

How Does FDIC Deposit Insurance Work?

The FDIC deposit insurance works by providing depositors with protection in the event of bank failures. The FDIC insures deposits in banks and savings associations that are members of the FDIC. Currently, the standard insurance amount is $250,000 per depositor, per insured bank, for each account ownership category. This means that if you have more than $250,000 in a single account or multiple accounts at the same bank, your funds in excess of $250,000 may not be insured.

When a bank fails, the FDIC steps in as the receiver and takes control of the bank. The FDIC then liquidates the bank's assets to pay off its debts, including its deposit liabilities. The FDIC also provides deposit insurance payouts to depositors up to the insured amount. If your bank fails, the FDIC will contact you with instructions on how to claim your insured deposits.

You'll need to provide the FDIC with some information, such as your name, address, and account number, in order to verify your deposit insurance coverage and process your claim. It's important to note that the FDIC only provides insurance for deposit accounts, such as checking accounts, savings accounts, and certificates of deposit (CDs).

It doesn't cover other types of financial products, such as stocks, bonds, mutual funds, or annuities. In addition, the FDIC doesn't cover losses due to fraud or theft. If your account is compromised because of fraud or theft, you should contact your bank immediately and report the incident to law enforcement.

The Importance of Deposit Insurance

Depositing money in a bank account is one of the safest ways to store your funds, but it’s important to understand that there are still risks involved. That’s where deposit insurance comes in. The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) provides deposit insurance that protects depositors’ funds in the event of a bank failure. Understanding how deposit insurance works and what it covers can give you peace of mind and protect your hard-earned money.

One of the main benefits of deposit insurance is that it provides a safety net for depositors. In the unlikely event that a bank fails, depositors can still recover their funds up to the insurance limit. This is important because, without deposit insurance, depositors may lose some or all of their money if a bank fails.

Another benefit of deposit insurance is that it helps to promote financial stability. Knowing that their funds are protected can give depositors confidence in the banking system and encourage them to continue to deposit their money in banks. This, in turn, helps to ensure that banks have sufficient funds to lend to borrowers and support economic growth.

However, it’s important to understand that deposit insurance is not a guarantee against loss. While deposit insurance can protect depositors’ funds up to the insurance limit, it may not cover all of the funds in a depositor’s account. Additionally, some types of accounts may not be covered by deposit insurance, so it’s important to understand what types of accounts are covered and to make sure you stay within the insurance limits.

To make sure you have adequate deposit insurance coverage, it’s important to understand how the FDIC insurance limit works and to keep track of your deposits across different account types and institutions. By doing so, you can ensure that your funds are protected and that you’re making the most of the deposit insurance system.

What Accounts Are Covered by FDIC Insurance?

The FDIC covers a wide range of account types in its deposit insurance program. Here are some of the accounts that are typically covered:

  • Checking accounts: These accounts allow you to deposit and withdraw money frequently. Most banks offer checking accounts, and they are typically covered by FDIC insurance.
  • Savings accounts: These accounts are designed for depositors who want to save money over time. Savings accounts usually offer higher interest rates than checking accounts and are also typically covered by FDIC insurance.
  • Money market accounts: These accounts are similar to savings accounts but typically offer higher interest rates. They are also typically covered by FDIC insurance.
  • Certificates of deposit (CDs): CDs are time deposits that require you to leave your money in the account for a set period of time, typically ranging from a few months to several years. CDs are also covered by FDIC insurance.
  • Individual retirement accounts (IRAs): These accounts are designed to help individuals save for retirement. They come in two main types: traditional IRAs and Roth IRAs. Both types of IRAs are typically covered by FDIC insurance.

It's worth noting that the FDIC doesn't cover all types of accounts. For example, investments in stocks, bonds, and mutual funds are not covered by FDIC insurance. Additionally, if you have more than $250,000 in any one account or across multiple accounts at the same bank, the excess amount may not be covered by FDIC insurance.

What is the FDIC Insurance Limit?

The FDIC insurance limit is the maximum amount of coverage provided by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation to depositors at FDIC-insured banks. It is important for depositors to understand this limit in order to ensure that their funds are fully protected in the event of a bank failure.

As of 2023, the FDIC insurance limit is $250,000 per depositor, per bank, for each account ownership category. This means that if you have multiple accounts at the same bank, such as a checking account, savings account, and certificate of deposit (CD), each account is insured up to $250,000. However, if you have accounts at different banks, each bank's accounts are insured up to the same $250,000 limit.

It is also important to understand the different account ownership categories. The most common categories are single accounts, joint accounts, revocable trust accounts, and retirement accounts. The $250,000 limit applies to each depositor in each account ownership category, so it is possible for a single depositor to have more than $250,000 in insured deposits at one bank if the funds are in different account ownership categories.

It is also worth noting that the FDIC insurance limit is not a guarantee that depositors will receive the full amount of their deposits in the event of a bank failure. The FDIC will attempt to return as much of the depositor's funds as possible, but the amount may be less than the insurance limit if the bank's assets are not sufficient to cover all of its obligations.

Is FDIC Insurance Free for Depositors?

FDIC insurance is not free for depositors, but it is funded through premiums paid by banks. Banks that are insured by the FDIC are required to pay annual premiums based on the number of their deposits. These premiums are then used by the FDIC to build and maintain the Deposit Insurance Fund (DIF), which is used to pay out claims to depositors in the event of bank failures.

The cost of these premiums is passed on to the bank's customers in the form of lower interest rates on deposits or higher fees for banking services. While depositors may not directly pay for FDIC insurance, they indirectly pay for it through these fees and interest rates. It's important to note that FDIC insurance is not a substitute for responsible financial management. While depositors are protected up to the insurance limit, it's still important to choose a financially stable bank and monitor your accounts for any suspicious activity or errors.

Therefore, FDIC insurance is not free for depositors, but it provides an important safety net in the event of bank failures. By paying premiums to the FDIC, banks ensure that their customers' deposits are protected up to the insurance limit. While depositors may indirectly pay for this insurance through lower interest rates and higher fees, it's a small price to pay for the peace of mind that comes with knowing that your deposits are safe and secure.

Are There Any Limitations to FDIC Insurance Coverage?

Yes, there are some limitations to FDIC insurance coverage. While FDIC insurance provides an important level of protection for depositors, it's important to understand its limitations so that you can make informed decisions about how to protect your money.

First, it's important to note that FDIC insurance coverage is not unlimited. The standard insurance amount is $250,000 per depositor, per insured bank, for each account ownership category. This means that if you have multiple accounts at the same bank, your total deposits are insured up to $250,000. If you have accounts at different banks, each account is insured up to $250,000 per bank.

It's also important to understand the different account ownership categories that are covered by FDIC insurance. These categories include single accounts, joint accounts, revocable trust accounts, irrevocable trust accounts, employee benefit plan accounts, and certain retirement accounts. Each of these categories has its own insurance limit of $250,000 per depositor, per insured bank.

Another limitation of FDIC insurance is that it only covers deposits held in FDIC-insured banks. This means that if you have money invested in stocks, bonds, or mutual funds, those investments are not covered by FDIC insurance. However, there are other types of insurance available to protect these types of investments, such as Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC) insurance.

Additionally, FDIC insurance only covers deposits in U.S. dollars. If you have deposits in foreign currencies, those deposits are not covered by FDIC insurance. It's also worth noting that FDIC insurance does not cover losses due to fraud or theft. While FDIC insurance protects against losses due to bank failures, it does not protect against losses due to criminal activity. However, many banks have their own fraud protection programs in place to help protect depositors against fraud and theft.

How Does the FDIC Protect Depositors?

The FDIC is committed to protecting depositors in the event of bank failures. In order to achieve this goal, the FDIC has a number of safeguards in place to ensure the safety and soundness of insured banks.

First, the FDIC regularly examines insured banks to ensure that they are operating in a safe and sound manner. This includes monitoring their financial condition, management practices, and compliance with laws and regulations.

Second, the FDIC has the power to take over and liquidate a failed bank in order to protect depositors. In such cases, the FDIC will typically sell the bank's assets and use the proceeds to pay off depositors.

Third, the FDIC has a number of programs in place to help prevent bank failures. These include providing technical assistance to troubled banks, conducting research on the banking industry, and promoting best practices in banking.

Fourth, the FDIC works closely with other regulators and government agencies to ensure that the banking system as a whole is safe and sound. This includes working with the Federal Reserve, the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, and state banking authorities.

Finally, the FDIC provides a number of resources and tools to help depositors protect themselves. These include online tools for researching and comparing banks, as well as educational materials on topics such as fraud prevention and financial literacy.

Overall, the FDIC plays a critical role in protecting depositors and ensuring the safety and soundness of the banking system. While there are limitations to FDIC insurance coverage, depositors can take comfort in knowing that their funds are backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. government.

What Happens if a Bank Fails?

In the unlikely event that a bank fails, the FDIC is responsible for stepping in to protect depositors and ensure that they have access to their funds. When a bank fails, the FDIC is appointed as the receiver, which means it takes over the bank's operations and manages the process of closing the bank and returning depositor funds.

The FDIC typically arranges for a healthy bank to purchase the failed bank's deposits and assets, which helps to ensure that depositors can quickly access their funds. Depositors can expect to receive their insured deposits within a few days of the bank's failure.

In some cases, the FDIC may provide temporary access to a portion of uninsured funds while it works to liquidate the failed bank's assets. However, there is no guarantee that depositors will recover all of their funds, especially if they exceed the FDIC insurance limit.

It's worth noting that bank failures are relatively rare and the vast majority of banks are financially sound and well-capitalized. Nonetheless, it's important for depositors to understand the protections provided by the FDIC and to ensure that their deposits are fully insured.

Recent Bank Failures in 2023 and 2024: Causes & Effects

Are There Any Alternatives to FDIC Insurance?

While FDIC insurance provides a level of protection for depositors, it is important to note that it is not the only option available. There are alternative options that can offer similar protections, but with some differences.

One such alternative is the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA), which provides insurance coverage for credit unions in the same way that FDIC insurance covers banks. The NCUA insures deposits up to $250,000 per account, per institution. However, it is important to note that not all credit unions are federally insured, so it is important to verify the insurance status of any credit union before depositing funds.

Another alternative to FDIC insurance is private deposit insurance. This is typically offered by smaller, community-based banks and credit unions. Private deposit insurance works in a similar way to FDIC insurance, but it is not backed by the federal government. Instead, it is backed by a private insurance company. The insurance coverage and limits vary by institution and insurer, so it is important to carefully review the terms and conditions before depositing funds.

It is also possible to spread deposits across multiple institutions to maximize insurance coverage. By opening accounts at different banks or credit unions, depositors can ensure that all of their funds are fully insured. However, it can be difficult to keep track of multiple accounts, and this approach can be time-consuming.

Overall, while FDIC insurance is the most widely recognized and trusted deposit insurance program, there are alternatives available. Depositors should carefully evaluate their options and consider factors such as insurance coverage, limits, and convenience before making a decision. It is important to remember that the ultimate goal is to protect one's hard-earned money and savings.

Tips for Depositors to Stay Protected

As a depositor, it’s important to be informed and proactive about protecting your funds. Here are some tips to help you stay protected:

  • Know the FDIC insurance limit: Familiarize yourself with the current FDIC insurance limit and ensure that all of your accounts are within the limit.
  • Choose FDIC-insured institutions: When choosing a bank or credit union, ensure that it is FDIC-insured. You can check if an institution is FDIC-insured by using the FDIC's BankFind tool.
  • Diversify your accounts: Consider spreading your funds across multiple accounts, such as savings, checking, and money market accounts. This can help you stay within the FDIC insurance limit and protect your funds.
  • Monitor your accounts: Regularly check your account statements and transaction history to ensure that there are no unauthorized transactions or errors.
  • Be wary of scams: Be cautious of unsolicited phone calls, emails, or text messages asking for your personal information or account details. Scammers often use these tactics to gain access to your funds.
  • Keep your information up to date: Ensure that your bank or credit union has your current contact information, including your address, phone number, and email address. This can help prevent communication issues that could lead to account fraud or unauthorized transactions.

What Deposit Insurance Can and Cannot Do?

Deposit insurance can provide a sense of security to depositors, but it’s important to understand what it can and cannot do.

Deposit insurance can:

  • Protect your deposits: Deposit insurance can protect your deposits in the event of a bank failure, up to the coverage limit.
  • Provide peace of mind: Knowing that your deposits are insured can give you peace of mind and help you feel more confident about keeping your money in the bank.
  • Encourage savings: Deposit insurance can encourage people to save more by reducing the risk associated with keeping money in a bank.

Deposit insurance cannot:

  • Protect you from investment losses: Deposit insurance only covers deposit accounts, such as checking, savings, and CDs. It does not cover investments in stocks, bonds, or mutual funds.
  • Prevent a bank failure: Deposit insurance cannot prevent a bank from failing, but it can help protect your deposits in the event that it does.
  • Cover losses from fraud or theft: Deposit insurance does not cover losses from fraud or theft, so it’s important to take steps to protect your account, such as monitoring your transactions and reporting any suspicious activity immediately.

It’s important to understand the limitations of deposit insurance and to take steps to protect your finances beyond deposit insurance coverage. This includes diversifying your investments and regularly monitoring your accounts for any unusual activity.

FAQs on FDIC Deposit Insurance

The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) is an independent agency of the federal government created to protect depositors in the event of bank failures.

FDIC insurance covers a range of deposit accounts including checking, savings, money market deposit accounts, and certificates of deposit (CDs).

The FDIC insurance limit is $250,000 per depositor per account ownership category. This means that if a depositor has multiple accounts at the same bank, they will be insured up to $250,000 for each account ownership category.

Yes, there are some limitations to FDIC insurance coverage. For example, deposits over $250,000 are not covered by FDIC insurance. Additionally, certain types of accounts, such as investment accounts and annuities, are not covered by FDIC insurance.

The FDIC insures up to $500,000 for joint accounts, which means that each account holder is insured up to $250,000.

Yes, you can increase your FDIC insurance coverage by opening accounts at multiple banks, or by opening different types of accounts (such as a checking account, savings account, and CD) at the same bank.

The FDIC insures bank deposits, while the SIPC (Securities Investor Protection Corporation) insures securities and cash held by a brokerage firm in the event of its failure.

If your bank fails, the FDIC will step in to pay out the insured deposits. This usually happens within a few business days after the bank’s failure.

No, FDIC insurance is available to anyone who opens an account at a participating bank, regardless of citizenship or residency status.

No, credit unions are not covered by FDIC insurance. Instead, they are insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) up to $250,000 per account.

Yes, if you have funds exceeding the FDIC insurance limit at a single bank and the bank fails, you could lose the uninsured amount. It is important to stay within the FDIC insurance limit to ensure the safety of your deposits.

No, there are no fees associated with FDIC insurance. The cost of providing FDIC insurance is paid for by the participating banks through premiums.

You can check the FDIC’s online database to see if your bank is FDIC-insured. If you suspect that your bank is not insured, you should contact the FDIC immediately to report the issue.

Yes, you can have multiple accounts at a bank and still be fully insured as long as the accounts are held in different ownership categories and do not exceed the $250,000 limit for each category.

No, FDIC insurance does not cover losses due to fraud or theft. However, banks and credit unions may offer additional protections or insurance for these types of losses.

If a bank is acquired by another bank, your deposits will remain insured by the FDIC up to the $250,000 limit as long as they remain in the same ownership category.

In 2021, there were 4,236 FDIC-insured commercial banks in the United States. 4,706 insured institutions filed Call Reports in the fourth quarter of 2022, a decline of 40 institutions from the third quarter of 2022.

References/Sources:

  • https://www.fdic.gov/resources/deposit-insurance/
  • https://www.fdic.gov/resources/deposit-insurance/brochures/deposits-at-a-glance/
  • https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deposit_insurance
  • https://www.investopedia.com/terms/f/fdic.asp
  • https://www.imf.org/external/pubs/ft/fandd/1999/03/tigert.htm

44% of Americans Think Housing Market Will Crash in 2024

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The current sentiments and concerns surrounding the housing market crash in the United States have been brought to light by a recent survey conducted by LendingTree. The findings indicate a significant level of apprehension among Americans, with a considerable percentage anticipating a potential housing market crash in the next year.

Americans Think Housing Market Will Crash in 2024

A Pessimistic Perspective:

44% of Americans Fear Imminent Housing Market Crash

Recent findings from a LendingTree survey of over 2,000 U.S. consumers paint a grim picture of the housing market's future. An alarming 44% of Americans believe that the housing market is at risk of crashing in the next year. What's even more surprising is that 35% of Americans actually hope for a market crash, with some nonhomeowners viewing it as their only chance to afford a home.

Key Findings:

  • 44% of Americans anticipate a housing market crash, with another 31% uncertain about the future.
  • 36% of homeowners and 35% of Americans overall express a desire for the market to crash, driven by various motivations such as lowering property taxes and believing it could lead to future stability.
  • Nearly a third of nonhomeowners (32%) see a market crash as their only pathway to homeownership, a sentiment particularly pronounced among Gen Zers (39%) and millennials (38%).
  • Concerns about mortgage interest rates loom large, with 53% of Americans worrying about them remaining high. Additionally, 79% expect rates to rise for at least another year, and 27% believe mortgage rates will soar to 8.00% or higher in the next year.
  • Homeownership challenges persist, with 50% of homeowners feeling stuck due to their current low mortgage rates. Furthermore, 75% of Americans are unsure if they'll ever see rates as low as in 2020 and 2021, and 11% of homeowners doubt their ability to buy a home again.

The Divergence of Concerns:

Whether one owns or rents, the issue of home prices and values dominates thoughts, albeit for different reasons. Nonhomeowners are troubled by high home prices (48%), while homeowners are anxious about decreasing home values (38%). Despite these worries, a majority (62%) of Americans believe that home prices will increase in the next year, with two-thirds (66%) expecting a rise of 5% or more.

The Intersection of Anxiety and Aspiration:

Americans' Belief in an Impending Housing Crash

As of October 2023, the housing market has been tumultuous, marked by 30-year mortgage rates reaching nearly 8.00%—the highest since November 2000. This has significantly influenced public opinion, with a substantial 44% of Americans foreseeing a housing market crash in the next year. Millennials, in particular, express the highest concern, with 52% anticipating a crash. Other age groups, such as Gen Zers (48%), Gen Xers (42%), and Baby Boomers (30%), also share varying degrees of apprehension.

Hope Amidst Uncertainty:

While the majority harbors concerns, there is a notable segment (36%) of homeowners who actually wish for a market crash. Motivations behind this desire include a desire to lower property taxes and a belief that a crash could bring about future stability. Surprisingly, 35% of Americans overall share this sentiment, especially prevalent among Gen Zers (53%), millennials (46%), and those with children under 18 (46%). However, baby boomers (18%) and those with children over 18 (22%) are less inclined towards this perspective.

The Economist's Caution:

LendingTree senior economist Jacob Channel cautions against the optimism associated with a housing market crash. While acknowledging the current challenges of high home prices and mortgage rates, Channel points out the potential negative repercussions of a market crash on the broader economy. Drawing parallels to the 2008 housing crisis, he highlights that a crash might not make homeownership more accessible; instead, it could lead to tightened lending standards and widespread job losses.

“It's not impossible for home prices to fall and make a given housing market more affordable,” Channel notes. “It's also not necessarily impossible for the housing market to outright crash next year while the rest of the economy remains relatively okay (though it's very unlikely). But if you're hoping that the housing market will crash and make it easier for you to buy a house, you'll probably be disappointed.

Despite the uncertainties, Channel provides a glimmer of hope for potential homebuyers, emphasizing the importance of considering historical data that indicates the slim likelihood of a housing crash in the next few years. He concludes by underscoring that historical trends show that when the market crashes, it tends to hurt more people than it helps.

The Dilemma of Aspiring Homeowners:

While the specter of a housing market crash looms, for some nonhomeowners, it represents a paradoxical glimmer of hope. Despite the potential consequences, 32% of nonhomeowners believe that a market downturn is their only viable path to homeownership. This sentiment is particularly pronounced among the younger demographic, with 39% of Gen Zers and 38% of millennials without homes expressing this view. Interestingly, it extends beyond age, encompassing those earning $50,000 to $79,999 (41%) and those with children younger than 18 (39%) as the most likely to share this perspective.

Mortgage Rates: A Pervasive Concern

The pervasive concern surrounding mortgage interest rates is palpable, affecting both homeowners and nonhomeowners alike. As of the week of Nov. 9, the average rate for a 30-year fixed mortgage stood at 7.50%, contributing to the unease. 53% of Americans express apprehension that these rates will remain high, reflecting a widespread worry that has varying degrees of intensity across different demographics.

Demographic Dynamics of Concern:

  • Those with children younger than 18 (61%), individuals earning $75,000 to $99,999 (60%), and millennials (59%) emerge as the groups most troubled by the prospect of persistently high interest rates.
  • Women (56%) demonstrate a higher level of concern compared to men (49%) when it comes to the impact of interest rates on the housing market.

Projections and Expectations:

Looking into the future, 79% of respondents anticipate rates to rise for at least another year, with 53% of this group believing that rates will rise for over a year or longer. Among these expectations, 27% of Americans foresee mortgage rates reaching 8.00% or higher a year from now. Additionally:

  • 19% believe rates will be between 5.00% and 5.99%
  • 15% anticipate rates between 6.00% and 6.99%
  • 13% expect rates between 7.00% and 7.99%

Notably, Gen Zers are the most optimistic age group, with 21% thinking rates will be between 5.00% and 5.99%. In contrast, 21% of baby boomers anticipate rates between 7.00% and 7.99%.

The Economist's Optimistic Outlook:

Despite the prevailing concerns, LendingTree senior economist Jacob Channel provides a glimmer of optimism regarding future mortgage rates. He points out that while rates have risen significantly since the start of 2022, historical trends suggest that this trend may not necessarily continue into 2024. Factors such as cooling inflation and potential rate cuts by the Federal Reserve in 2024 could contribute to a decline in rates. Channel cautiously predicts that rates might end up closer to 6.00% or 7.00% rather than the feared 8.00% or higher.

However, Channel underscores the unpredictability of mortgage rates, acknowledging that various factors, such as a resurgence of inflation or elevated bond yields, could keep rates high. In conclusion, he emphasizes that while rates are in constant flux, there are indications that they might start to decrease, albeit gradually, over the next year.

Expert Tips for Navigating the Uncertain Housing Market:

Preparing for Market Changes:

As the housing market remains dynamic and unpredictable, expert advice becomes invaluable for individuals contemplating buying or selling in the upcoming year. Jacob Channel provides insightful tips to help individuals navigate potential market fluctuations:

1. Don't Rely on a Crash as a Savior:

Channel cautions against banking on a market crash as a solution to high prices. While acknowledging the challenges of the current housing market, he emphasizes that waiting for a crash is not a reliable strategy. According to Channel, the housing market is unlikely to outright crash next year. Instead, he anticipates that prices may adjust in certain regions, and interest rates might also experience fluctuations. To overcome affordability challenges, he advises prospective buyers to focus on practical steps like saving and strengthening finances rather than relying on unpredictable market shifts.

2. Plan Wisely, But Seize Present Opportunities:

Planning is crucial, but not at the expense of the present. Channel suggests that giving oneself ample time to save money, improve credit scores, and pay down debts can facilitate the mortgage approval process. However, he warns against becoming overly fixated on future possibilities, as there might never be an “ideal” time to buy. Channel encourages individuals in a favorable position to buy now, reminding them that great opportunities may be missed if paralyzed by concerns about an uncertain future.

3. Stay Informed About Market Dynamics:

Keeping abreast of market changes is crucial, according to Channel. The housing market is in constant flux, and conditions can vary significantly from one location to another. While not advocating obsessive monitoring, Channel suggests having a general awareness of current mortgage rates and home prices in your area. Recognizing that the market's appearance today may differ tomorrow, staying informed allows individuals to make well-informed decisions, whether buying or selling a house.

This information is based on a survey of over 2,000 U.S. consumers conducted by LendingTree, a leading online lending marketplace. Predicting market trends, including the possibility of a housing market crash, involves uncertainties. Therefore, it is recommended to supplement these insights with additional research and expert opinions for a comprehensive understanding of the real estate landscape in the United States for 2024 and beyond.

90% of Millennials Regret About Their First Home Purchase (2024)

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Recent findings from a survey conducted by Real Estate Witch shed light on the challenges faced by millennial homeowners. An astonishing 90% of millennial homeowners express regrets about their initial foray into homeownership. This statistic is a stark reflection of the difficulties this generation encounters in realizing the American dream of owning a home.

The desire for homeownership remains strong within the millennial cohort, with 78% acknowledging it as a crucial part of the American dream. However, financial barriers hinder their progress, as 48% believe homeownership is unaffordable for the average millennial.

Despite the fervent desire for homes, the harsh reality of the current market, characterized by high interest rates and a limited housing supply, has left many millennials feeling trapped. A staggering 93% claim that the market has impacted their home-buying plans, with 76% expressing concerns that it will worsen before they can secure a home.

In the pursuit of homeownership, millennials find themselves making various concessions. To afford a home within their budget, 42% are willing to compromise on the characteristics of the home, and 29% anticipate making financial concessions. These compromises include accepting a higher interest rate (39%), making multiple offers (36%), maxing out their budget (30%), and paying more than the asking price (29%).

Encouragingly, there are indications that the market is gradually shifting towards buyers. Approximately 41% of millennials expect to negotiate more with sellers, and 26% anticipate sellers lowering their prices. However, despite these positive signs, 96% of millennials remain concerned about purchasing a home, fearing challenges such as not finding a suitable home (35%) and having to make major repairs (35%).

Regrets of Millennial Homeowners

Among the 33% of millennials who have already purchased homes, the regret rate has risen from 82% in 2023 to an alarming 90% in 2024. Beyond the common regret of a bad location (27%), other prevalent concerns include bad neighbors (26%), high interest rates (25%), expensive mortgages (22%), and outgrowing the home too quickly (20%).

The hidden costs of homeownership contribute significantly to regrets. Beyond the mortgage, homeowners spend an average of nearly $17,500 annually on taxes, insurance, maintenance, and repairs. Notably, 18% regret the high upkeep, 16% find the costs associated with upkeep to be too expensive, and another 16% regret the overall expense of homeownership.

Financial Realities and Concerns

The financial challenges faced by millennials are evident in the data. High interest rates serve as a barrier for half of millennials (50%), with 67% expressing regret for not purchasing a home when rates were lower. In the face of financial constraints, 78% would consider accepting an interest rate higher than the national average of about 7%, and 65% would accept rates of 10% or more.

Furthermore, 96% state that high interest rates have affected their home-buying plans, with 70% citing the impact of inflation. A significant portion of millennials (47%) plans to put down less than 20% on a home, and 25% have less than $10,000 in savings, while 12% have less than $1,000, including 5% with nothing saved.

The median U.S. home cost stands at $431,000, yet 57% of millennials aim to purchase a home costing less than $400,000. Despite the challenges, 79% would pay above asking price for their dream home, albeit down from 85% in 2023.

Methodology:

This comprehensive analysis is based on data gathered by Clever Real Estate through a survey conducted on October 24-25, 2023. The survey included responses from 1,000 American adults actively seeking to purchase a home by the end of 2024.

In summary, Millennials face formidable challenges in the pursuit of homeownership, grappling with high costs, regrets, and financial constraints. As the real estate landscape evolves, it remains crucial to address the concerns of this generation, ensuring that the dream of owning a home becomes a more attainable reality.

What is Passive Real Estate Investing?

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Passive real estate investing is a way to invest in real estate to augment income considerably well without having to necessarily stress out one’s self. You are not actively involved in generating profits or income from real estate; you are a passive investor.

  • Passive real estate investing is when you hire or contract a real estate company to help you in finding and manage investment properties for you.
  • Also, passive real estate investing is defined as a process where investors contribute to real estate-related mutual funds and Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs).  This reduces the burden of running about to find properties and who to sell them for. You hire the firms to get the work done for you and then you pay them after the whole process.

‍There’s more to real estate investing than just buying distressed properties and flipping them for a profit. You need to consider the long-term value of the properties you are buying and the capitalization rate of return that is expected from your real estate investments. If you are serious about this type of investing, then you need to understand how to improve your chances of success. This article will provide some great tips so that you can make money in the real estate industry.

There are two basic ways to make a profit in passive real estate investing; one of them is direct income from rentals. Once the income surpasses the expenditures, then you are on the winning side.  The other way you can benefit is by increasing the value of your investment property and mining the equity that you generate. You either can take low-interest loans against the equity or sell your investment property for a profit and reinvest by buying more investment properties.

5 Passive Real Estate Investing Tips to Help You Make Money

1. Research is key

Many people will only venture into real estate after they have already discovered that they enjoy it. However, the research phase needs to be done very early on in order to have a high chance of success. If you are just going to throw money at a project, it is unlikely that you will get very far. You will probably lose money even if the property appreciates in value by a factor of 10. Most real estate investment ideas will require some level of research in order to make sure that you are getting good value for your money.

2. Know the Market

As mentioned above, some of the best real estate investments are in areas that are experiencing strong growth. If you are buying a foreclosure or a bank-owned property, then you will most likely find that there is a large pool of potential tenants. If the rental market is strong, then you could potentially make a nice profit by taking advantage of low vacancy rates to fill a property. If the market is weak, then you could potentially lose money if you are not careful. I

It is best to know the market well in order to make sure that you are getting good value for your money when you invest in real estate. The market is always changing, so it is important to know what has been going on recently in order to make informed investment decisions. The best way to do this is to get on the ground and see what is happening in the local real estate markets.

3. Know The Different Types Of Real Estate Investing

There are many different types of real estate investing, and it is important to know which ones are best for you. There are three main categories when it comes to real estate investing: fixed assets, discretionary, and real estate investment trusts. This is because these are the main types of real estate that you will find in most residential and commercial real estate projects. What differentiates one type of real estate investing from another is the amount of risk that is associated with each type.

Investing in REITs

You can invest in REITs in a variety of different ways, including purchasing shares of publicly traded REIT stocks, mutual funds, and exchange-traded funds. REITs generally own and/or manage income-producing commercial real estate, whether it's the properties themselves or the mortgages on those properties.

You can invest in Retail REITs, Residential REITs, Healthcare REITs, Office REITs, and Mortgage REITs. REITs will provide you with high dividend yields along with moderate long-term capital appreciation. They can become an excellent addition to your diversified investment portfolio. You must find companies that have done a good job historically in giving dividends to investors.

Real Estate Crowdfunding

The New Opportunity for Passive Real Estate Investing is in Crowdfunding. Since 2012, over 100+ real estate crowdfunding sites have come into existence. Websites like RealtyShares allow investors to access different real estate projects. Investors can get access to different property types and locations across the country. You can invest in real estate alongside thousands of savvy investors. Through RealtyShares, you can invest as little as $5000 and choose over 1500 funded deals.

Investing In a Turnkey Rental Property

Investing in a turnkey rental property is one of the wisest investment decisions you can take today if you are in search of how to make passive income in real estate. A turnkey rental property can be competently managed through a property management company. Therefore, your investment in turnkey rental properties is relatively safe, secure, and hassle-free. In turnkey property investing, everything is done for you.

You would simply purchase an investment property, let the professionals oversee it, and collect your monthly cash flow income, while your tenants would increase your equity or pay off your mortgage. After purchasing the property, you leave every other thing to a turnkey property management company and expect your monthly passive income to flow into your bank account. In addition, the firm ensures that your property never remains vacant.

Finding good tenants on your own can be a big hassle. A good tenant will take care of your property and pay you to rent on time. A bad or disgruntled tenant can cause havoc on your property in many ways and leave it in ruins. Another way of going about passive real estate investing is to hire people who are trustworthy to help you in locating properties in good neighborhoods.

Then, call on a good and experienced contractor to help you renovate the property and do every other necessary repair so that the property can become very attractive before you put it on market for rent. Now you can contract a trusted property management company for collecting rent, handle repairs and maintenance, addressing complaints of your tenants, and sending money to your bank account every month. Isn't it an easy way to generate a passive income?

Click on the link to know all the benefits of investing in turnkey rental properties, which is one of the best ways of passive real estate investing. As much as passive real estate investing looks very good and attractive in theory, it requires time, dedication, and most importantly, taking the right steps before it starts yielding profits.

4. Find The Right Property For The Right Transaction

You will never know if you have all the right properties to invest in and the right people to partner with. It is best to find a real estate partner with whom you are comfortable sharing some of your hard-earned money. You can’t just throw money at a project and hope for the best. If you want to make sure that you are getting good value for your money, then you will need to work hard to find the right project for the right price.

In many cases, you will have to do some serious research in order to find the right project. It is also important to remember that no two real estate transactions will be identical. There might be a market that is oversaturated in a certain type of property, and you may have to look in another location. The important thing is to find a project that you can relate to. If you aren’t feeling 100% comfortable with a certain type of deal, then don’t invest in that type of project. Stick to projects that you are familiar with, and feel safe with.

5. Be Aware Of Capitalization Rates

You will almost certainly make money over the long term when you invest in real estate, but you also need to consider the long-term value of the properties you are buying and the capitalization rate of return that is expected from your real estate investments. While flipping real estate, you will most likely be purchasing properties that are under renovation or have been abandoned.

These types of properties are at risk of being taken advantage of, so it is important to understand the capitalization rate of return that is expected from these types of investments. The capitalization rate of return is the percentage that you are expected to pay back on your investment. In many cases, the property will appreciate in value over time. In other cases, the property may decline in value, in which case you will need to pay back your capitalization rate of return.

This is very difficult to predict, so it is important to understand the capitalization rate of return that is expected from your real estate investments. There is no way to tell whether a project will appreciate in value or not, so it is important to understand what you are getting yourself in for. You can find out more about real estate capitalization rates in this article.

Conclusion

A passive income is defined as the income that you receive regularly which involves little effort on your own part. That is, while some other persons do the herculean part of the job, your own involvement does not really count but you get a huge part of the gain at the end of the whole process. You are certain of the inflow of money on a regular basis, but you don’t participate in the running of the business.

So, passive real estate income is the income you get regularly from real estate investment without playing an active role in the whole process. You get paid every month, quarter, or year but do not participate in the management or contribute work in the investment. Even though passive real estate investing is one of the most lucrative investments people can consider doing, the truth is that the investment requires a little bit of your attention in order to succeed as intended.

You have to be kept abreast of the activities of the firm you’ve invested your money in so as not to be jilted investor. However, if you are certain of the firm you are dealing with; you can always relax and attend the periodic meetings if there are any. Real estate is a great way to make money if you are willing to put in the effort.

There are many different types of real estate investing, and it is important to know which ones are best for you. If you are interested in real estate, then it is smart to get on the ground and do some research in order to make sure that you are getting good value for your money. There are many different types of real estate investing, and it is important to know which ones are best for you.

There are three main categories when it comes to real estate investing: fixed assets, discretionary, and real estate investment trusts. The capitalization rate of return is the percentage that you are expected to pay back on your investment. In many cases, the property will appreciate in value over time. In other cases, the property may decline in value, in which case you will need to pay back your capitalization rate of return.

This is very difficult to predict, so it is important to understand the capitalization rate of return that is expected from your real estate investments. There is no way to tell whether a project will appreciate in value or not, so it is important to understand what you are getting yourself in for.

Homebuyers Are Moving to Sacramento, Las Vegas, and Orlando

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Homebuyers across the United States are changing their preferences as the housing market undergoes significant shifts. Austin, once a sought-after destination, is witnessing an exodus due to soaring housing costs. At the same time, Sacramento, Las Vegas, and Orlando are emerging as the most popular choices for homebuyers, despite the increasing climate risks they face.

In a surprising turn of events, more homebuyers are looking to leave Austin, Texas, than move in during the third quarter of 2023. This marks the first time on record that there hasn't been a net inflow into the Texas capital. The rising housing costs in Austin have prompted some recent transplants to reconsider their decisions and return to their hometowns.

The data analyzed for this report is based on the searches of approximately two million users on Redfin, who viewed homes for sale online across over 100 metropolitan areas from July 2023 to September 2023. Redfin's records trace housing trends dating back to 2017.

U.S. Homebuyers' Nationwide Relocation

Nationwide, there is a significant trend of homebuyers relocating to different metro areas, which is still near record highs. During the third quarter, approximately 25.9% of homebuyers sought to move to a different part of the country. This figure remains relatively consistent with the record high of 26% observed in August. It's also up from 24% compared to the previous year and a substantial increase from the 19% reported before the pandemic.

Notably, there is a 9% decrease in Redfin.com users looking to move away from their home metro compared to the previous year, marking the most significant annual drop on record. However, searches for out-of-town homes are holding up better, with a 17% decrease in Redfin.com users searching within their home metro compared to a year ago.

Despite a cooling overall housing market, the high percentage of homebuyers looking to move to a different metro area continues, largely due to the pursuit of affordability. In fact, nine out of the top 10 most popular migration destinations offer lower home prices than the most common origin of buyers moving in.

Homebuyers' Migration to Affordable yet Climate-Risky Destinations

Sacramento, California, Las Vegas, Nevada, and Orlando, Florida, have emerged as the most sought-after destinations for relocating homebuyers in the third quarter of 2023. The popularity is determined by a net inflow, which measures how many more Redfin.com users looked to move into an area rather than leave it.

Remarkably, half of the top 10 popular destinations are in Florida, and eight of them are situated on the East Coast, even though the two most popular destinations are in the western part of the U.S. What's fascinating is that nearly all the places homebuyers are moving to are more affordable than their places of origin, which explains their popularity, even in the face of increasing climate risks.

Top 10 Metros Homebuyers Are Moving Into, by Net Inflow

Let's take a closer look at the top 10 metro areas that homebuyers are flocking to, based on net inflow, in the third quarter of 2023:

  1. Sacramento, CA: With a net inflow of 4,800, Sacramento takes the top spot, attracting homebuyers primarily from San Francisco, CA, and Chicago, IL.
  2. Las Vegas, NV: Las Vegas follows closely with a net inflow of 4,500, drawing homebuyers primarily from Los Angeles, CA, and retaining a strong local presence.
  3. Orlando, FL: Orlando secures the third position with a net inflow of 4,000, primarily from New York, NY.
  4. Myrtle Beach, SC: With a net inflow of 3,800, Myrtle Beach entices homebuyers from Washington, D.C., and maintains its local appeal.
  5. North Port-Sarasota, FL: This destination reports a net inflow of 3,700, with most homebuyers coming from New York, NY.
  6. Portland, ME: Portland, ME, attracts homebuyers with a net inflow of 3,500, primarily from Boston, MA.
  7. Tampa, FL: Tampa, FL, showcases a net inflow of 3,400, with New York, NY, as its primary source of homebuyers.
  8. Cape Coral, FL: Cape Coral, FL, with a net inflow of 3,300, draws homebuyers primarily from Chicago, IL.
  9. Miami, FL: Miami, FL, reports a net inflow of 3,200, with New York, NY, as its primary source of homebuyers.
  10. Salisbury, MD: Salisbury, MD, rounds out the top 10 with a net inflow of 3,100, primarily attracting homebuyers from Washington, D.C.

In summary, the U.S. housing market is undergoing a transformation as homebuyers seek new opportunities and prioritize affordability. Austin, once a bustling destination, is witnessing a surprising exodus due to escalating housing costs. In contrast, Sacramento, Las Vegas, and Orlando are experiencing a surge in popularity, despite the climate risks they face.

These trends are reflective of a changing landscape, where Americans are making calculated moves to secure their dream homes in the most promising locations. These shifts provide valuable insights into the evolving housing market, allowing both homebuyers and sellers to navigate the changing tide with confidence.

Homebuyers Are Leaving San Francisco, New York, and Los Angeles

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According to Redfin, an increasing number of homebuyers are bidding farewell to the bustling streets of San Francisco, New York, and Los Angeles in pursuit of more affordable dwellings. The trend of US migration patterns reveals a significant net outflow, indicating that more Redfin.com users are looking to leave these metros than to move in.

The allure of the coastal job centers has been waning, with the high cost of living driving residents to seek greener pastures. In the quest for more affordable places to call home, prospective buyers are turning their backs on these traditionally sought-after locations. Ironically, the most common destinations for these migrating homebuyers often boast pricier homes than the places they're leaving behind.

Homebuyers Flock to Affordable Metros for Housing

San Francisco, a city famous for its iconic Golden Gate Bridge and thriving tech scene, leads the exodus with a net outflow of 25,800 users in Q3 2023, compared to 37,700 in the same period last year. This 24% net outflow means that nearly a quarter of Redfin.com home searchers in the city are looking to leave. The top destination for these San Francisco escapees is Sacramento, California, with Seattle, Washington, being the favored out-of-state destination.

New York, the city that never sleeps, is witnessing a similar trend with 25,300 users departing in Q3 2023, up from 23,500 the previous year. A whopping 30% of home searchers in the Big Apple are looking elsewhere. Miami, Florida, emerges as the top destination for these New Yorkers, both in-state and out-of-state.

Los Angeles, often seen as the epitome of the California dream, has also seen a substantial exodus. In Q3 2023, 20,200 users left the City of Angels, compared to 33,500 in the same period last year. This translates to a 19% net outflow, and Las Vegas, Nevada, is the top destination for these departing residents, both from within California and out-of-state.

The Nationwide Trends: US Migration Patterns by Numbers

The US migration patterns don't stop at these three major cities. The appeal of more affordable housing options is drawing in residents from other major metros across the country. In Washington, D.C., 13,900 residents left in Q3 2023, up from 18,800 the previous year. Salisbury, Maryland, emerges as the preferred destination for these departing Washingtonians.

Chicago, often called the Windy City, has witnessed 4,800 residents leaving in Q3 2023, up from 5,600 the previous year. Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is the preferred destination for these Chicagoans, offering more budget-friendly housing options.

Boston, Massachusetts, another expensive urban center, saw 4,300 residents departing in Q3 2023, up from 9,300 the previous year. Portland, Maine, beckons these departing Bostonians with its charm and affordability.

Farther east, Hartford, Connecticut, saw 3,300 residents leaving in Q3 2023, a substantial increase from 900 in the same period the previous year. Boston, Massachusetts, once again becomes the top destination for these migrating homeowners.

In Denver, Colorado, 2,200 residents left in Q3 2023, up from 3,700 the previous year. Chicago, Illinois, is the preferred destination for these Denver escapees, offering a change of scenery along with cost savings.

Even Detroit, Michigan, is part of this migration pattern, with 2,000 residents leaving in Q3 2023, up from 4,500 the previous year. Grand Rapids, Michigan, and Cape Coral, Florida, are the top destinations for these departing Detroiters.

Lastly, San Diego, California, saw 1,800 residents leaving in Q3 2023, but interestingly, there was an inflow of 6,900 residents during the same period. Las Vegas, Nevada, remains a popular destination for both departing and incoming San Diegans.

Insightful Analysis US Migration Pattern

This migration trend is based on a comprehensive analysis by Redfin, involving approximately two million Redfin.com users who browsed for sale homes online across more than 100 metro areas from July 2023 to September 2023. To gauge the share of homebuyers looking to relocate from one metro to another, Redfin calculates the portion of overall home searchers that are migrants.

This migration pattern indicates a shift in priorities for homebuyers across the United States. The quest for affordability is driving them to seek new horizons and explore housing markets that offer greater value for their investment. Whether it's the allure of Sacramento's thriving community, Miami's vibrant culture, or the charm of Portland, Maine, these migrating homebuyers are reshaping the landscape of American housing markets.

Summary: The US migration patterns are reshaping the housing market landscape, with homebuyers leaving expensive coastal metros in favor of more affordable places. Redfin's analysis reveals the extent of this phenomenon, with cities like San Francisco, New York, and Los Angeles experiencing substantial net outflows of residents seeking greener pastures.

As the quest for affordability continues to drive these migration patterns, it's clear that the American dream of homeownership is being redefined. Whether it's the allure of Sacramento's thriving community, the vibrant culture of Miami, or the charm of Portland, Maine, these migrating homebuyers are changing the face of the housing market in the United States.

Source:

  • https://www.redfin.com/news/housing-migration-trends-q3-2023/

What is the Property Tax Deduction Limit in 2024?

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If you own a home in the United States, you may be eligible to deduct your property taxes from your federal income tax return. However, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 imposed a limit on the amount of state and local taxes (SALT) you can deduct, including property taxes.

This limit is $10,000 for single filers and married couples filing jointly, and $5,000 for married couples filing separately. This means that if you pay more than $10,000 ($5,000 if married separately) in total SALT, you cannot deduct the full amount of your property taxes.

This can be a problem for homeowners in high-tax states, such as New York, New Jersey, California, and Illinois, where property taxes can easily exceed the SALT cap. Some lawmakers have been pushing for relief from the SALT cap, but so far no changes have been made. Therefore, it is important to know how to maximize your property tax deduction in 2023 and beyond.

How to Maximize Your Property Tax Deduction in 2024?

Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your property tax deduction:

Pay your property taxes on time

You can only deduct the property taxes you actually paid during the tax year, not the amount you owe or accrued. Therefore, make sure you pay your property taxes by December 31st of each year to claim them on your tax return.

Itemize your deductions

You can only deduct your property taxes if you itemize your deductions on Schedule A of Form 1040. This means that your total itemized deductions must exceed the standard deduction, which is $12,950 for single filers and $25,900 for married couples filing jointly in 2023. If your itemized deductions are less than the standard deduction, you are better off taking the standard deduction and not deducting your property taxes.

Combine or separate your deductions

If you are married and file separately, you may be able to increase your property tax deduction by splitting or combining your SALT payments with your spouse.

For example, if one spouse pays more than $5,000 in SALT and the other pays less than $5,000, they may benefit from filing separately and each claiming their own SALT deduction up to the $5,000 limit. On the other hand, if both spouses pay less than $5,000 in SALT, they may benefit from filing jointly and claiming their combined SALT deduction up to the $10,000 limit.

Consider refinancing your mortgage

If you have a mortgage on your home, you may be able to deduct the interest you pay on it as well as your property taxes. However, the mortgage interest deduction is also subject to a limit of $750,000 ($375,000 if married filing separately) of mortgage debt.

If your mortgage balance exceeds this limit, you may want to consider refinancing your mortgage to lower your interest rate and reduce your interest payments. This way, you can free up some room for your property tax deduction within the SALT cap.

Plan ahead for major home improvements

If you are planning to make significant improvements to your home that will increase its value and property taxes, you may want to time them strategically to maximize your property tax deduction.

For example, if you expect to pay more than $10,000 ($5,000 if married filing separately) in SALT in 2023, you may want to postpone or accelerate some of your home improvements to 2024 or 2022, when you expect to pay less than $10,000 ($5,000 if married filing separately) in SALT.

This way, you can spread out your property tax payments over multiple years and stay within the SALT cap.

In summary, property taxes are an unavoidable expense for homeowners, but they can also provide a valuable tax break if you know how to use it wisely. By following these tips, you can maximize your property tax deduction in 2023 and save money on your federal income taxes.

Can You Start Your Own Real Estate Company?

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If you are interested in starting your own real estate company in the United States, you will need to follow some essential steps to ensure your success. Here are some tips and resources to help you plan, start, and grow your real estate business.

1. Get a real estate license

Obtaining a real estate license is an important first step in your real estate career. The timeline, qualifications, and costs of getting your real estate license are different from state to state, so consult your local real estate bureau to understand what’s required.

2. Write a business plan

A business plan is a document that outlines your goals, strategies, and financial projections for your real estate business. It helps you define your target market, analyze your competition, and identify your unique value proposition. A business plan also helps you secure funding, attract partners, and measure your progress.

3. Hire an experienced business attorney

A business attorney can help you decide on the best legal structure for your real estate business, such as a sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, or corporation. They can also help you with contracts, agreements, licenses, permits, taxes, and other legal matters that affect your business.

4. Set up accounting and bookkeeping

Accounting and bookkeeping are essential for managing your finances, tracking your income and expenses, and filing your taxes. You can use software tools like QuickBooks or FreshBooks to simplify your accounting and bookkeeping tasks. You may also want to hire an accountant or bookkeeper to help you with more complex financial issues.

5. Purchase business insurance

Business insurance protects you from potential risks and liabilities that may arise from your real estate activities. Some common types of business insurance for real estate agents are general liability insurance, errors and omissions insurance, property insurance, and workers’ compensation insurance. You can compare quotes from different providers online or consult an insurance agent to find the best coverage for your needs.

6. Build a strong brand identity

A brand identity is the visual representation of your business, including your name, logo, slogan, colors, fonts, and images. A strong brand identity helps you stand out from the crowd, attract customers, and build trust and loyalty. You can use tools like Canva or LogoMaker to create your own brand identity or hire a professional designer to help you.

7. Create an online presence

An online presence is a must for any real estate business in the digital age. It helps you showcase your listings, generate leads, and communicate with your clients. Some of the elements of an online presence are a website, a blog, social media profiles, email marketing campaigns, and online reviews. You can use platforms like WordPress or Wix to create your own website or hire a web developer to help you.

8. Create a sales plan

A sales plan is a document that outlines your sales goals, strategies, and tactics for your real estate business. It helps you define your target audience, identify your value proposition, choose your marketing channels, set your budget, and measure your results. A sales plan also helps you stay focused, motivated, and accountable for your sales performance.

9. Join a team or network

Joining a team or network can help you leverage the experience, knowledge, and resources of other real estate professionals. You can benefit from mentorship, training, referrals, support, and collaboration with other agents or brokers in your area or niche. You can also join professional associations like the National Association of Realtors (NAR) or local chambers of commerce to expand your network and access more opportunities.

10. Grow your business

Growing your business means increasing your revenue, expanding your market share, and enhancing your reputation in the real estate industry. You can grow your business by diversifying your services, adding new products or features, entering new markets or niches, acquiring new clients or partners, hiring more staff or contractors, or investing in new technology or equipment.

Starting Your Own Real Estate Company: Avoid These Common Mistakes

Starting your own real estate company can be a rewarding and profitable venture, but it also comes with many challenges and risks. If you want to succeed in this competitive and dynamic industry, you need to avoid some common mistakes that can derail your plans and hurt your reputation. Here are some of the most important ones to watch out for:

1. Not Having a Clear Vision and Strategy

Before you launch your real estate company, you need to have a clear idea of what you want to achieve, how you will differentiate yourself from the competition, and what steps you will take to reach your goals. A vision and strategy will help you stay focused, motivated, and aligned with your team and clients. You should also write a detailed business plan that outlines your market analysis, financial projections, marketing plan, and growth strategy.

2. Not Doing Enough Research and Due Diligence

Real estate is a complex and ever-changing industry that requires constant research and analysis. You need to stay on top of the latest trends, regulations, opportunities, and challenges in your market and niche. You also need to do thorough due diligence on every property you buy or sell, including inspecting the condition, verifying the title, checking the zoning, reviewing the contracts, and assessing the profitability.

3. Not Having Enough Capital and Cash Flow

Starting a real estate company requires a significant amount of capital and cash flow to cover the initial expenses, such as licensing fees, office rent, equipment, marketing, and payroll. You also need to have enough reserves to handle unexpected costs, such as repairs, vacancies, taxes, and legal fees. To avoid running out of money or getting into debt, you should have a realistic budget, track your income and expenses, and seek financing options if needed.

4. Not Hiring and Training the Right People

Your real estate company is only as good as the people who work for it. You need to hire qualified, experienced, and motivated agents who share your vision and values. You also need to provide them with adequate training, coaching, mentoring, and feedback to help them grow their skills and performance. You should also create a positive and supportive work culture that fosters collaboration, communication, and innovation.

5. Not Marketing and Branding Yourself Effectively

Marketing and branding are essential for attracting and retaining clients in the real estate industry. You need to establish a strong online presence that showcases your expertise, credibility, and personality. You also need to use various channels and methods to reach your target audience, such as social media, email marketing, blogging, video marketing, referrals, networking events, and advertising. You should also create a unique value proposition that sets you apart from other real estate companies.

By avoiding these common mistakes when starting your own real estate company, you can increase your chances of success and satisfaction in this rewarding industry.

FSOC Addresses Vulnerabilities in CRE and Residential Real Estate

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The Financial Stability Oversight Council (FSOC), established in the aftermath of the 2008 recession, plays a pivotal role in identifying and addressing risks to the U.S. financial system. In its latest annual report, Section 3 delves into a comprehensive discussion of the 14 financial stability vulnerabilities identified for the year 2023. These vulnerabilities are categorized into three significant areas: Financial Risks, Financial Institutions, and Financial Market Structure, Operational Risk, and Technological Risk.

Financial Risks: Unveiling Vulnerabilities

3.1 Commercial Real Estate, Residential Real Estate, and Corporate Credit

Commercial Real Estate and Residential Real Estate are identified as key vulnerabilities due to potential strains arising from maturing loans, expiring leases, and weakened demand for office space. The Council emphasizes the importance of monitoring CRE exposures, evaluating loan portfolios' resilience, and ensuring adequate credit loss allowances. Similarly, Corporate Credit faces heightened risks with rising interest rates and slowing economic growth, necessitating continuous monitoring to manage potential defaults and their cascading effects across financial markets.

3.1.1 Recommendations for Financial Institutions and Supervisors

The Council recommends close monitoring of residential real estate exposures, coordination among federal and state agencies to address credit risk, and oversight strengthening for nonbank companies involved in mortgage servicing. Additionally, enhanced data collection on nonbank lending to nonfinancial businesses is supported to gain insight into risks associated with the rapid increase in private credit.

Short-Term Funding Markets: Sustaining Liquidity

3.2 Money Market Funds (MMFs) and Noncentrally Cleared Bilateral Repo (NCCBR) Market

Short-term funding markets, crucial for financial market liquidity, face potential vulnerabilities. The Council endorses the SEC's rule reducing structural vulnerabilities in Money Market Funds (MMFs) to enhance resilience, liquidity, and transparency. Additionally, attention is drawn to the noncentrally cleared bilateral repo (NCCBR) market, where improved counterparty risk management is recommended, emphasizing the need for additional data to monitor risks effectively.

3.2.1 Strengthening Market Resilience

The Council advocates continued monitoring of short-term funding market conditions and recommends member agencies bolster efforts to make these markets more resilient. Efforts to enhance the resilience of investment vehicles with similarities to MMFs are encouraged, along with proposals for collecting necessary data in areas where data limitations hinder close monitoring.

Emerging Challenges: Navigating the Crypto-Asset Landscape

3.3 Crypto-Asset Market: A Growing Concern

While the crypto-asset market is not yet significant in size or broad connection to the traditional financial system, its potential to transmit distress to traditional financial firms cannot be underestimated. Council members have actively addressed risks in the crypto-asset ecosystem through agency statements, guidance, and rulemaking. The Council emphasizes the importance of agencies continuing to enforce existing rules and regulations to mitigate potential threats.

3.3.1 Regulatory Gaps: Addressing Challenges

The 2022 Report on Digital Asset Financial Stability Risks and Regulation identified two regulatory gaps in the United States: the regulation of spot markets for crypto-assets that are not securities and the regulation of stablecoins. The Council reiterates its recommendations for Congress to pass legislation to close these regulatory gaps. In the absence of comprehensive legislation, the Council remains prepared to take necessary steps to address risks related to stablecoins.

Climate-Related Financial Risks: A Call for Action

3.4 Coordinating Efforts to Address Climate Impact

Climate-related impacts and events continue to impose significant costs on the public and the economy. The Council urges state and federal agencies to continue coordinating efforts to procure necessary data for monitoring climate-related financial risks. It recommends the development of a robust framework to identify and assess climate-related financial risks, emphasizing the importance of consistent, comparable, and decision-useful disclosures for investors and financial institutions.

3.4.1 Focus on Physical Climate Risk and Real Estate Vulnerabilities

Given the critical role of real estate in the economy and the financial system, the Council recommends collaborative analysis among agencies on the intersection of physical risk, real estate, and insurance. Recognizing the impact of climate-related events on commercial and residential real estate vulnerabilities, the Council underscores the need for agencies to work together to address these challenges proactively.

As the financial landscape evolves, the FSOC's proactive approach and comprehensive recommendations serve as a guide for financial institutions, supervisors, and regulators to navigate potential risks and uphold the stability of the U.S. financial system.

4 Real Estate Investment Tips You Can Learn from Warren Buffet

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Some of the most successful stock investors have based their investing principles on value investing. Investors such as Warren Buffet, Benjamin Graham, and Irving Kahn have used value investing to build vast empires of wealth.

Value investing was conceived by Benjamin Graham and David Dodd, in their classic book, “Security Analysis”, written in 1934. Although they were talking about stocks, there is still a lot we can learn from value investing that can be applied to other vehicles such as investment real estate.

Keep in mind that the very definition of value investing is subjective. Some value investors only look at current returns and don't place any value on future growth. While other value investors base their strategies around the estimation of future growth and cash flows. Despite the differences, it all comes back to trying to buy something for less than it is worth.

4 Real Estate Investment Tips You Can Learn from Warren Buffet

Here are four things that real estate investors can learn from value investing:

Investing vs. Speculating

In value investing, it's important to make the distinction between being an investor and being a speculator. In “Security Analysis”, it is defined as this:

“An investment…is one which, upon thorough analysis promises safety of principal and an adequate return. [Investments] not meeting these requirements are speculative”.

So there are 3 things needed for something to be an investment:

  1. You need to do a thorough analysis.
  2. You need to be reasonably sure that you won't lose your money.
  3. You need to be reasonably sure that you will make some money.

In terms of real estate, this means that just buying and selling real estate does NOT make you an investor. Even if you're buying properties at random because of a real estate boom, and all other properties are going up in value, you are not investing. You are speculating.

There is nothing wrong with speculating, you just need to be aware when you're speculating versus when you're investing.

Value vs. Quality

Value investing doesn't have any specific formulas or rules. It is more of a theory with some general principles. Because of this, there are many ways to do value investing and different ways to apply it.

Benjamin Graham focused on buying stocks significantly below value, with little emphasis on the quality of the stock in regard to its long-term prospects.

This can be a useful strategy for a real estate investor, particularly when they are first starting and need to build up equity fast. However, this would not be a very good long-term strategy.

Warren Buffet still looks at the value of a stock but puts a lot more emphasis on the quality of the stock. He only buys stocks that he thinks have good long-term prospects, with a bright future in front of them.

This is generally the best strategy for real estate investors, especially as they build up their portfolios. Long-term, well-chosen property will provide significantly more capital growth than poorly chosen property and may be worth buying even if bought at market value.

With commercial real estate investments, it may be worth getting a lower rental yield if it means you can have a high-quality tenant who will pay the rent reliably. This is a strategy that famous New Zealand commercial real estate investor Bob Jones has applied with great success.

Margin of Safety

One of the most important principles in value investing is the “margin of safety”.

The margin of safety is the idea of making sure that you only invest if your calculations show that there is a significant profit to be made. Your analysis can't be 100% accurate, so the margin of safety gives you a buffer to use when your calculations are slightly off, or you get worse than average luck, or any number of unexpected problems occur.

So when estimating the value of a stock, you use conservative estimates for earnings and so forth, to come up with the value. If your estimated value comes in at $10, then you don't buy the stock if it's currently selling for $9.75, because it's too risky, and if your calculations are off, you won’t be buying a bargain. However, if the price is currently $6, you might buy it because you have a $4 margin of safety to use if you estimate incorrectly.

The same principle applies to investment real estate.

Suppose you are looking at a particular investment, and you find you can buy a piece of land for $100,000 and build a 4-bedroom house on it for $150,000.

If new 4-bedroom houses in the area are selling for $270,000 then should you do the deal? Theoretically, it will only cost you $250,000 to buy/build with a sale price of $270,000, leaving you a gross profit of $20,000.

But that isn't much of a margin of safety. What if building costs increase and it costs more than $150,000 to build? What if you can't sell it right away and you now have some holding costs? What if the other 4-bedroom houses in the area have much better kitchens than you realized and you can only sell for $245,000?

There are a lot of unknowns here, and because your margin of safety is so small unless everything goes right, you can quickly find yourself taking a loss.

If on the other hand, 4-bedroom houses in the area are selling for $350,000 then you have a projected gross profit of $100,000. You can now afford for many things to go wrong and still make a profit.

In the first scenario, if building costs go up by $50,000, the deal will cost you $30,000. In the second scenario, because you have a much larger margin of safety, if building costs go up by $50,000, you will still make a gross profit of $50,000.

The margin of safety is a very important concept to all investors, and all real estate investors should think about it if they want to be around for the long term.

The Myth of Risk vs. Reward

Conventional wisdom says that to increase your reward in investing, you must increase your risk. This is often true, but the margin of safety principle can turn this around.

When a margin of safety is used, a higher reward means a lower risk!

You can see this in the example above. The deal that is projected to make $20,000 is quite risky, whereas the deal with a projected profit of $100,000 is much safer because a lot more can go wrong before a loss is realized.

Of course, this doesn't mean that high reward always means lower risk. The conventional Risk vs. Reward wisdom is still generally correct. So, if you borrow more to buy a property, your risk and reward have increased. If you buy in a small town to get a higher rental yield, your risk and reward have increased.

This Risk vs. Reward theory is only incorrect when directly applied to the Margin of Safety concept. So if you buy something for $100,000 that all your analysis shows is worth $200,000, then your reward has gone up, while your risk has gone down.

BOTTOM LINE: You too can be a very successful Value Investor. Along with thorough analysis, simply define your real estate investment strategy in terms of investing vs. speculation, value vs. quality, and margin of safety.

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