In a renter’s market, where renovated older style villas and apartments are competing with brand new developments in the same area, investors are finding that they need to reduce their asking rent below the quoted value either at the time of purchase or after the tenants have vacated. So how do you deal with this, and looking at the bigger picture, what will it cost you?
It is important to always view your investment much like you would a business. In business, you have highs and lows. It is the same with investment properties however, while you have your master facility acting as your buffer to fund your investment, a dip in the market and a drop in rental figures will not affect the bigger picture of your 10 year portfolio growth plan and changes to your holding costs are minimal.
A small rent reduction of $10 per week, will not have a significant effect on rental enquiries for your property. A drop of $20.00 per week however, is what can save you from another week, two or even more without tenants.
Lets look at the following case study to illustrate the above:
• Your current weekly asking price is $300.00 per week.
• Your purchase price was $350,000.
• Current rental yield: 4.4%
• If interest rates are at 7%: your holding costs are 2.6%
Should we reduce the rent by $20 per week:
• Rental yield becomes 4.2%
• Holding costs on the property are 2.8%.
You then need to take into account your tax breaks and depreciation. The actual impact to your master facility in this scenario, is only $13 per week and not the $20 rent reduction per week.
So don’t be overly concerned. If dropping the rent by $20 means your vacant property will be leased, the overall financial impact is minimal and in some cases, could save you money.
Our team of Property Managers are happy to assist you in any way they can. Please contact our office if you would like to learn more.
Melinda Ives – Senior Property Manager