The commercial real estate market is a constantly evolving landscape. While core assets have traditionally been a reliable source of income for investors, their returns are becoming increasingly compressed. This has led investors to seek out alternative strategies that offer the potential for higher returns while still providing some level of consistent income. Enter value-add real estate – a strategy that focuses on acquiring properties with untapped potential and actively unlocking their hidden value.

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What is Value-Add Real Estate?

Imagine a property in a desirable location with a well-maintained structure, but outdated finishes and vacant storefronts. This could be a prime candidate for a value-add investment. Value-add real estate involves purchasing such properties and implementing strategies to increase their overall value. This can involve several tactics:

• Physical Improvements:  Studies by the National Bureau of Economic Research, a non-profit research organization, have shown that renovations can increase rental rates by up to 8.5%. Upgrading kitchens, bathrooms, or common areas in multifamily properties, or modernizing lobbies and installing energy-efficient systems in office buildings, can significantly enhance a property's appeal and attract higher-paying tenants.
• Operational Enhancements:  Streamlining property management practices, implementing targeted marketing campaigns, or renegotiating vendor contracts can lead to higher occupancy rates and reduced expenses. According to a report by the Institute for Real Estate Management (IREM), a professional organization for real estate managers, well-managed properties can achieve occupancy rates 5-10% higher than poorly managed ones.
• Strategic Repositioning:  Repositioning a property to cater to a different market segment can be a game-changer. For example, converting a struggling retail space into a co-working facility can tap into the growing demand for flexible workspaces.  According to a 2020 report by JLL, a real estate services firm, co-working spaces command an average rent premium of 18% compared to traditional office space.

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Why Consider Value-Add Real Estate?

While core assets offer stability, value-add strategies present the opportunity for increased returns through a combination of income generation and capital appreciation. Here's a breakdown of the key benefits, based on various industry reports:

• Enhanced Returns: Value-add properties, once revitalized, can command higher rents and attract better tenants, leading to a potential income increase of 10-20%, according to CBRE, a commercial real estate investment firm. Additionally, the increased value of the property upon sale can translate to significant capital gains.
• Diversification: Value-add strategies are not limited to a single property type. Investors can diversify their portfolio across various asset classes, such as multifamily, industrial, or office buildings, mitigating risk and capitalizing on diverse market opportunities.
• Active Management:  This approach is ideal for investors who enjoy a hands-on role. Value-add strategies require active management and strategic decision-making, offering a more dynamic investment experience.

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How Can a Real Estate Agent Help?

The value-add landscape can be complex, requiring a keen eye for opportunity and a deep understanding of local market dynamics. Here's where a Coldwell Banker Horizon Realty agent becomes your invaluable partner:

• Identifying Opportunities: Our agents possess the expertise to identify underperforming properties with hidden potential. They leverage market knowledge, access to data analytics, and an understanding of renovation costs to pinpoint undervalued assets ripe for value-add strategies.
• Crafting Investment Strategies:  Our team works closely with you to understand your investment goals, risk tolerance, and budget. We then collaborate to create a tailored value-add strategy that maximizes your return on investment. This may involve analyzing potential renovation costs, calculating projected rental increases, and identifying the best exit strategy (holding for long-term income or selling after value creation).
• Project Management:  The value-add process requires careful coordination, from renovation planning to tenant relations. Coldwell Banker Horizon Realty agents can connect you with the necessary resources, such as reliable contractors, property management firms, and leasing specialists, and guide you through each step of the process.

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With core asset returns moderating, value-add real estate offers a compelling alternative for investors seeking strong income and capital appreciation. By partnering with an experienced real estate agent at Coldwell Banker Horizon Realty, you can gain access to valuable expertise, navigate the complexities of value-add investing, and unlock the

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Sources:

• NBRE
• IREM
• JILL
• CBRE