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Real Estate Investing: Minimum Investment for a Beginner?

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |6988 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 25, 2024

Ramalingam Kalirajan has over 23 years of experience in mutual funds and financial planning.
He has an MBA in finance from the University of Madras and is a certified financial planner.
He is the director and chief financial planner at Holistic Investment, a Chennai-based firm that offers financial planning and wealth management advice.... more
Indu Question by Indu on Jul 16, 2024Hindi
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Hlw SIr Good evening I want to know about Reits.. Real Estate investment. Plz guide me of how much min investment I will make.

Ans: REITs are companies owning income-producing real estate.
They allow individual investors to earn dividends without buying, managing, or financing properties.
Advantages of REITs

Liquidity: Easily bought and sold on stock exchanges.
Diversification: Invest in different property types and locations.
Regular Income: Dividends from rental income.
Professional Management: Managed by professionals ensuring efficiency.
Minimum Investment

Varies: Depends on the specific REIT and platform.
General Range: Can start with as low as Rs 5,000 to Rs 50,000.
Disadvantages of REITs

Market Risk: Subject to market volatility like stocks.
Fees: Management and transaction fees can reduce returns.
Dividend Tax: Dividends are taxable, affecting net returns.
How to Invest in REITs
Through Stock Exchanges

Listed REITs: Available on stock exchanges.
Process: Similar to buying stocks; use a demat account.
Mutual Funds

REIT Mutual Funds: Funds that invest in REITs.
Benefit: Professional management and diversification.
Tips for Investing in REITs

Research: Understand the REIT's portfolio, performance, and management.
Diversify: Don't invest all in one REIT; diversify across sectors and regions.
Long-Term Perspective: Hold investments for a longer period for potential growth.
Alternatives to Direct REIT Investment
Actively Managed Funds

Flexibility: Fund managers can adapt to market changes.
Potential for Higher Returns: Aim to outperform index funds.
Regular Mutual Funds

Guidance: Investment through Certified Financial Planners ensures professional advice.
Convenience: Easier management and oversight.
Final Insights
Start Small: Begin with a manageable amount and increase gradually.
Monitor Regularly: Keep an eye on market trends and performance.
Consult a CFP: Seek advice from a Certified Financial Planner for tailored guidance.
Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information to be as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision.
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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |6988 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 30, 2024

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SIR, GOOD DAY. I WOULD LIKE TO INVEST IN REITs. PL ENLIGHTEN ABOUT VARIOUS REITs IN INDIA AND TAXATION ASPECTS THERE TO. THANKS AND REGARDS
Ans: Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) are an increasingly popular investment option in India, offering opportunities to invest in income-generating real estate assets. Here's an overview of REITs in India and their taxation aspects:

Types of REITs: In India, there are primarily two types of REITs: Equity REITs and Mortgage REITs. Equity REITs own and operate income-generating real estate properties, while Mortgage REITs provide financing for real estate investments.
Listed REITs: Currently, there are a few listed REITs in India, including Embassy Office Parks REIT and Mindspace Business Parks REIT. These REITs own commercial properties such as office spaces and lease them out to tenants, generating rental income for investors.
Taxation Aspects:
Dividend Distribution Tax (DDT): REITs are required to distribute at least 90% of their net distributable income to investors as dividends. This income is exempt from DDT at the REIT level.
Taxation at Investor Level: Dividends received from REITs are taxable in the hands of investors as per their applicable income tax slab rates.
Capital Gains Tax: Any capital gains arising from the sale of REIT units are taxed as per the capital gains tax regime. If units are held for more than 3 years, they qualify for long-term capital gains tax with indexation benefits. Otherwise, they are subject to short-term capital gains tax as per the investor's income tax slab rates.
Tax Deductions: Investors can also avail tax deductions under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act for investments made in REIT units, subject to certain conditions.
Risks and Considerations: While REITs offer the potential for regular income and capital appreciation, investors should be mindful of risks such as fluctuations in real estate prices, tenant occupancy, and interest rate changes.
Before investing in REITs, it's essential to conduct thorough research, assess your risk tolerance, and consult with a Certified Financial Planner or tax advisor to understand the taxation implications and suitability of REIT investments based on your financial goals and circumstances.

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |6988 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 27, 2024

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Hi sir Good evening M a lady n giving Tution at home. I fill itr since 4 yrs, 6lac per annum is present income through Tution. I invest in sip 2k from July 2024 and second sip has been stopped in March2024 . First one is regular. I want knowledge about Reits Investment. I want to invest in min lump sum amount . Plz guide me how much min investment I will make on Reits.
Ans: Your Current Situation
Income: You earn Rs 6 lakhs per annum through tuition.

SIP Investments: You have a SIP of Rs 2,000 per month since July 2024. Another SIP stopped in March 2024.

Investment Interest: You want to know about REITs (Real Estate Investment Trusts) and how to invest a minimum lump sum amount.

REITs Investment Insights
1. What are REITs?

Real Estate Exposure: REITs allow you to invest in real estate without buying property.
Income Generation: They generate rental income and distribute it as dividends.
Diversification: REITs offer exposure to commercial real estate, adding diversity to your portfolio.
2. Benefits of Investing in REITs

Regular Income: REITs provide regular dividends from rental income.
Liquidity: They are traded on stock exchanges, making them easy to buy and sell.
Professional Management: Managed by experts, reducing the hassle of property management.
3. Disadvantages of REITs

Market Risk: REITs are subject to market fluctuations.
Interest Rate Sensitivity: REIT performance can be affected by interest rate changes.
Management Fees: Some REITs may have high management fees.
Minimum Investment in REITs
1. Investment Amount:

Affordable Entry: You can start with as low as Rs 50,000.
Regular Monitoring: Keep track of REIT performance to make informed decisions.
2. Investment Approach:

Lump Sum Investment: Suitable if you have a considerable amount to invest at once.
Diversified Portfolio: Include REITs as part of a diversified investment strategy.
Recommended Investment Strategy
1. Continue SIP Investments:

Consistency: Continue your existing SIP of Rs 2,000.
Increase Amount: Gradually increase your SIP amount as your income grows.
2. Allocate Funds to REITs:

Lump Sum Investment: Invest a minimum lump sum in REITs for diversification.
Monitor Performance: Regularly review REIT performance and market trends.
3. Build an Emergency Fund:

Financial Safety: Maintain an emergency fund for unexpected expenses.
Easy Access: Ensure it is liquid and easily accessible.
4. Seek Professional Guidance:

Expert Advice: Consult a Certified Financial Planner for personalized investment advice.
Regular Reviews: Schedule regular reviews of your investment portfolio.
Final Insights
Diversify Investments: Include REITs for diversification and regular income.

Monitor Regularly: Keep an eye on your investments and adjust as needed.

Professional Help: Consult a Certified Financial Planner for tailored advice.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |6988 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 25, 2024

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Hlw sir tell me about Reits. Real Estate investment. Min investment Kitna hota h sir Isme aur kabse profit aata h. And kaise invest krte h Reits m. Plz guide me. Thank you so much ????
Ans: What Are REITs?

Definition: REITs, or Real Estate Investment Trusts, are companies that own, operate, or finance income-generating real estate.

Structure: They allow individual investors to earn a share of the income produced through commercial real estate ownership without actually having to buy, manage, or finance any properties.

Minimum Investment in REITs

Entry Point: The minimum investment varies by REIT. Generally, you can start with as low as Rs 10,000.

Accessibility: REITs are traded on major stock exchanges, making them accessible to small investors.

Profit Generation in REITs

Income Source: REITs generate income primarily through rent collected from the properties they own.

Dividends: Investors receive dividends from these earnings, typically paid out quarterly or annually.

Capital Appreciation: Over time, the value of the properties owned by the REIT can increase, leading to capital gains.

Investment Timeline

Short-Term: You may start seeing dividend income within a few months.

Long-Term: Capital appreciation generally takes a longer time, potentially several years.

How to Invest in REITs

Choose a REIT:

Types: Decide whether you want to invest in Equity REITs (own and operate real estate) or Mortgage REITs (provide financing for income-producing real estate).

Research: Look at the track record, property portfolio, and management team of the REIT.

Brokerage Account:

Open an Account: If you don't already have a brokerage account, open one with a reputable broker.

Select REIT: Use your brokerage platform to select and buy shares of the REIT you are interested in.

Monitor Performance:

Review Regularly: Keep an eye on the performance of your REIT investments.

Market Conditions: Be aware of changes in the real estate market that could impact your investment.

Disadvantages of Direct Real Estate Investment

High Costs: Direct real estate investments require significant capital outlay for purchase, maintenance, and management.

Illiquidity: Real estate assets are not easily converted into cash without a substantial loss of value.

Advantages of REITs Over Direct Real Estate Investment

Liquidity: REITs can be bought and sold on stock exchanges, offering high liquidity.

Diversification: You can invest in a portfolio of properties across different sectors and locations.

Professional Management: REITs are managed by experienced professionals, ensuring better management of the properties.

Considerations Before Investing in REITs

Market Risks:

Economic Factors: REITs are subject to market risks and economic factors affecting real estate, such as interest rates and property market trends.
Investment Goals:

Align with Goals: Ensure that investing in REITs aligns with your financial goals and risk tolerance.
Professional Guidance:

Certified Financial Planner: Consulting a Certified Financial Planner can provide personalized advice tailored to your specific situation and financial objectives.
Final Insights

Diversify: Consider diversifying your investment across different types of REITs for balanced risk and return.

Stay Informed: Keep updated with market trends and REIT performance to make informed investment decisions.

Long-Term Perspective: While REITs can provide steady income, they are best suited for investors with a long-term perspective.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Latest Questions
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |6988 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Nov 08, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 07, 2024Hindi
Money
I am a 35 year old guys, I invest around 30K in SIP monthly with proper knowledge and diversification in different types of Equity MF. However this remains my only savings as my CTC is very low. I do have the window to step up 2-3K in SIP every year depending on my salary increment. My portfolio is having an amount of 30L currently. I want to retire with 5Cr as corpus. Can you let me know by what age can I retire and best way to accelerate?
Ans: You are currently 35 years old, investing Rs 30,000 monthly in a diversified portfolio of equity mutual funds. Your total portfolio value is Rs 30 lakh. You plan to increase your SIP contribution by Rs 2,000 to Rs 3,000 annually as your salary increases. Your goal is to retire with a corpus of Rs 5 crore.

I appreciate your consistent investment approach and your dedication to building a significant retirement corpus. With a systematic plan, you can achieve your target sooner than you might expect. Let's explore some strategies to help you reach your goal efficiently.

?

Assessing Your Retirement Goal

Your target retirement corpus of Rs 5 crore is substantial. Given your disciplined approach, it's achievable. However, a few key strategies can help you accelerate the process.

The retirement corpus should be sufficient to sustain you through your golden years. It should account for inflation, healthcare costs, and lifestyle needs. At an average inflation rate of 6%, expenses can double every 12 years. So, building a larger corpus than initially planned can add a safety cushion.

At your current investment pace, it may take a while to reach Rs 5 crore. Let's see how you can speed up the process while managing your risks.

?

Boosting Your Monthly SIP Contributions Gradually

You have the flexibility to increase your SIP by Rs 2,000 to Rs 3,000 annually. This is an excellent strategy, as it leverages the power of compounding.

Consider increasing your SIP contributions every year by a slightly higher amount. Even an additional Rs 1,000 per month can make a significant difference over the long term. If your salary allows, aim for an annual increase of Rs 5,000.

Automating the step-up in SIPs ensures that you stay on track without manually adjusting each year. This approach will enhance your portfolio growth and help you achieve your Rs 5 crore target earlier.

?

Why Actively Managed Equity Funds Are Ideal

It's great that you're investing in diversified equity mutual funds. Actively managed funds offer better potential returns than index funds. Fund managers actively select stocks to outperform the benchmark.

Unlike index funds that simply mimic a market index, actively managed funds can react to changing market conditions. This agility can help generate higher returns, especially during market fluctuations.

Actively managed funds are particularly beneficial in emerging markets like India, where inefficiencies can be capitalized upon by skilled fund managers. They aim to deliver alpha, or returns above the index.

?

Avoiding the Pitfalls of Direct Funds

While direct funds seem to offer a cost advantage, they may not be ideal for all investors. Direct plans lack the guidance and expertise provided by certified financial planners (CFP).

By investing through regular plans with the help of a certified mutual fund distributor (MFD) and CFP, you gain access to personalized advice. This includes portfolio reviews, rebalancing, and strategic changes based on market conditions.

Investing through an experienced CFP helps in optimizing your investments. It also ensures you are not emotionally swayed by market noise and short-term volatility.

?

Optimizing Tax Efficiency on Mutual Fund Investments

As per the latest tax rules, the long-term capital gains (LTCG) on equity mutual funds above Rs 1.25 lakh are taxed at 12.5%. Short-term capital gains (STCG) are taxed at 20%.

To reduce tax liabilities, consider staggering your withdrawals over multiple financial years. This can help you stay below the LTCG exemption threshold of Rs 1.25 lakh annually.

Additionally, avoid redeeming funds too frequently. Holding investments for the long term not only benefits from compounding but also from a lower tax rate on LTCG.

?

Exploring the Power of Systematic Transfer Plans (STP)

An STP is an efficient way to move funds from a debt mutual fund to an equity mutual fund. This strategy helps in averaging the cost of units and managing volatility.

You can park any lump sum bonus or extra income in a debt fund initially. Then, use an STP to transfer a fixed amount into equity funds monthly. This optimizes returns and minimizes the impact of market fluctuations.

STPs are especially useful during market downturns, allowing you to gradually invest in equities when prices are lower.

?

Emergency Fund and Insurance Coverage

Before increasing your SIP contributions, ensure you have an adequate emergency fund. Ideally, keep at least 6 to 9 months of expenses in a liquid fund or fixed deposit.

Review your insurance coverage. If you do not have a term insurance plan, consider getting one. Ensure your health insurance is sufficient to cover medical emergencies, which can deplete your savings if not planned for.

Avoid mixing insurance and investments. Focus on term insurance for coverage and mutual funds for wealth creation.

?

Diversification Beyond Equities Without Real Estate

While equity mutual funds are your primary investment, consider diversifying into debt mutual funds for stability. Debt funds offer better tax efficiency compared to fixed deposits, especially for investors in higher tax brackets.

Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGBs) can also be a good addition for diversification. They provide an annual interest and the potential for capital appreciation, with no tax on capital gains if held till maturity.

However, refrain from investing in real estate as it requires significant capital and lacks liquidity. Instead, focus on a diversified portfolio of mutual funds to meet your retirement goal.

?

Evaluating Your Existing Portfolio Regularly

Periodic portfolio reviews are crucial to ensure you are on track to meet your Rs 5 crore target. At least once a year, evaluate the performance of your funds with the help of a certified financial planner.

Ensure your portfolio remains diversified across large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap funds. Each category performs differently based on market cycles.

Rebalancing your portfolio can help lock in profits from high-performing funds and reinvest in underperforming but promising segments.

?

Additional Strategies to Accelerate Your Journey

Look for ways to increase your income, such as upskilling or side projects. The extra income can be directed towards increasing your SIPs.

If your salary increments are higher than expected, allocate a larger portion of the increase to your SIPs. This will significantly reduce the time needed to reach your Rs 5 crore goal.

Consider investing lump sums, such as annual bonuses, into equity mutual funds or STPs. Lump sum investments, when timed well, can accelerate your portfolio growth.

?

Final Insights

You are already on the right track with your disciplined SIP approach. Consistent investing, even with small step-ups, will yield impressive results.

Focus on a balanced approach: increasing SIPs, diversifying within mutual funds, and maintaining an emergency fund.

The key to reaching your Rs 5 crore retirement goal is consistency, disciplined savings, and leveraging the power of compounding. Keep reviewing and optimizing your investment strategy.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

...Read more

Anu

Anu Krishna  |1281 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Nov 07, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Oct 07, 2024
Anu

Anu Krishna  |1281 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Nov 07, 2024

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Relationship
Help me!!! 1.I'm starting new "work" on my own(challenging for me) but my mind says quit it, be quite & do nothing. I myself don't know that wether the result of work will be +ive or uncompleted like alws. 2. My mind has become like order seeker type, when someone orders me, I do those things with dedicated(but sad from inside) manner. But when myself will try something different(which i fear, but necessary) then. "I QUITS IT" & sometimes I don't even start. 3. I'm like stuck no clue what/whom I want to do in life, I'm in cllg(1 yr) doing (CSE) ,. 4. I want to do/try (sports,talking girls,study,stocks,coding..) many things, but myself, my thoughts(overthinker), R like just be in the place where u are[confused,po*n,think about past/future(being billio..re,olympics..), girl (that u liked & never talked), abusive/beating self,.. sometimes feels like end life, but don't hv courage for that also.. 5. I tried self help books, spirituality, god, self affirmation, writing... & thay affected me(sometimes) but for only some time, then again that devil me comes up &these things never get completed. As no one in my family knows about all these, so that's Y ,I hv to fight/loose/try again, the battles with myself.
Ans: Dear Harsh,
If in the past you have had the urge to QUIT, how is this time going to be different? This is not to discourage you from taking up 'new work' but pointing out that there is some amount of work that you need to put to clear the mind out of blockages.
-What is limiting you?
- What is the reason for putting off things?
- What comes first to the mind when you start something new?
Also, focus on one thing at a time; study and go deep into it...what's this thing with work? I don't understand. When the mind is unsettled, take one thing/activity, pursue it and finish it. It could simply be studying for Year 1 of your college...just only do that...once your mind is trained in completing an activity, you can add another one the next year along with studying and then pursue both...it could be some sport and studying...then the next year, you could add a third activity. This is called 'training the mind in discipline'. Discipline will make sure that you start and finish things...So, go slow and do one thing at a time.

All the best!
Anu Krishna
Mind Coach|NLP Trainer|Author
Drop in: www.unfear.io
Reach me: Facebook: anukrish07/ AND LinkedIn: anukrishna-joyofserving/

...Read more

DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Investment in securities market are subject to market risks. Read all the related document carefully before investing. The securities quoted are for illustration only and are not recommendatory. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information and as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision. RediffGURUS is an intermediary as per India's Information Technology Act.

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