STOW

10 mistakes to avoid when investing in real estate

Ebuka
Updated on

Are you thinking about investing in real estate? With the potential for high returns and the allure of passive income, it’s no wonder that many people are drawn to this type of investment. However, like any investment, real estate comes with risks and making mistakes can be costly. That’s why it’s crucial to educate yourself on the 10 common mistakes to avoid when investing in real estate to increase your chances of success.

In this blog post, we’ll discuss the mistakes that real estate investors make and provide tips on how to steer clear of them. Whether you’re a seasoned real estate investor or just starting, these tips will help you invest with confidence and avoid costly mistakes that could derail your financial future. So get comfortable, and let’s dive into these 10 common real estate investing mistakes that you’ll want to avoid at all costs.

Here are 10 mistakes to avoid when investing in real estate:

  1. Failure to conduct proper research
  2. Disregarding the importance of location
  3. Paying too much for a property
  4. Neglecting maintenance costs
  5. Underestimating expenses
  6. Failing to account for vacancies
  7. Absence of an exit strategy
  8. Failure to seek professional advice
  9. Dependence solely on property appreciation
  10. Impatience in real estate investing

10 mistakes to avoid when investing in real estate

1. Failure to Conduct Proper Research

One of the biggest mistakes that new real estate investors make is failing to conduct proper research. Before you invest in any property, it’s important to research the market, the property itself, and the surrounding area. This includes researching the property’s history, all documentation including a certificate of occupancy,  potential liens or issues with the title, the local market trends, and the crime rate in the area.

2. Disregarding the Importance of Location

Another common mistake that real estate investors make is disregarding the importance of location. Location is one of the most important factors in real estate investing, as it can determine the value of a property and its potential for appreciation. When looking for properties, consider factors such as proximity to schools, shopping centres, and transportation, as well as the quality of the neighbourhood.

3. Paying Too Much for a Property

Overpaying for a property is another common mistake that can cost investors a lot of money. To avoid overpaying, make sure you conduct a thorough appraisal of the property and research the local market to determine its fair market value. It’s also important to have a clear understanding of your budget and to stick to it.

Related: Real Estate Investing 101: Learn the Fundamentals of Real Estate Investment

The Top 9 Real Estate Investment Apps in Nigeria

All You Need To Know About Fractional Real Estate Investing

Top Financing Options for Buying a House in Nigeria

4. Neglecting Maintenance Costs

Maintenance costs can quickly add up, especially if you neglect them. To avoid this mistake, factor in maintenance costs when calculating your budget for a property. It’s also important to conduct regular inspections to identify any issues that need to be addressed before they turn into bigger problems.

Related: 10 Amazing Benefits Of Investing In Real Estate in Nigeria

Top 15 Locations for Real Estate Investment in Lagos

5. Underestimating Expenses

In addition to maintenance costs, there are many other expenses to consider when investing in real estate, such as property taxes, insurance, and utilities. To avoid underestimating expenses, make sure you factor in all costs when calculating your budget for a property.

6. Failing to Account for Vacancies

Vacancy rates refer to the percentage of rental properties that are unoccupied or available for rent at any given time. In other words, it is the number of vacant units divided by the total number of units in a rental property. 

Vacancy rates are an important factor to consider when investing in real estate because they directly affect the income generated from the property. If a property has a high vacancy rate, the income from rent will be reduced, which can make it difficult to cover the expenses associated with the property, such as property taxes, and maintenance costs.

Vacancy rates can also be influenced by factors such as the local economy, job growth, and population growth. It’s important to research and understand the vacancy rates in the area where you plan to invest in real estate to make informed investment decisions.

Related: Properties in High Demand in the Nigerian Real Estate Market

5 Nigerian Real Estate Investment Blogs to Help You Build Your Wealth

7. Absence of an Exit Strategy

Having an exit strategy is crucial when investing in real estate. Whether you plan to hold onto a property for the long term or sell it for a quick profit, having a clear plan in place can help you avoid financial losses and make the most of your investment.

Related: The pros and cons of investing in real estate in Nigeria

The 8 Best Ways to Invest in Real Estate in Nigeria

8. Failure to Seek Professional Advice

Real estate investing can be complex, and it’s important to seek professional advice to help you navigate the process. This includes working with a real estate agent, a real estate lawyer, and an accountant to ensure that you’re making sound financial decisions.

9. Dependence Solely on Property Appreciation

While property appreciation can be a significant source of income for real estate investors, it’s important to have a diversified portfolio to mitigate risk. Relying solely on property appreciation can be risky, especially in a volatile market.

10. Impatience in Real Estate Investing

Finally, impatience can be a costly mistake in real estate investing. It’s important to have a long-term mindset and to be patient when it comes to seeing returns on your investment. Rushing into a decision can lead to financial losses and missed opportunities.

Related: How to invest in real estate with little to no money

7 Factors to consider before investing in real estate in Nigeria

Conclusion on the 10 mistakes to avoid when investing in real estate

As you can see, real estate investing can be both lucrative and risky. Hopefully, this blog post has provided you with valuable insights into the 10 common mistakes to avoid when investing in real estate. Remember to always do your due diligence, seek professional advice, and have a solid plan in place.

But here’s the thing: while it’s important to avoid these mistakes, it’s also crucial to take action and start investing. Real estate is an investment that has stood the test of time, and it can provide a stable source of passive income for years to come. So, if you’re ready to take the plunge and start investing in real estate, I encourage you to consider the stow fractional investment plan.

mistakes to avoid when investing in real estate

The STOW Fractional Plan simplifies and reduces the cost of investing in select real estate properties and delivers guaranteed returns and capital gains on investment within a defined period. The Plan makes it possible for you to enjoy the yields of Prime Properties while investing only a fraction of the purchase price within a defined period.

We are committed to helping investors like you achieve financial success through real estate investing. Don’t let fear hold you back from realizing your investment goals. Take action today and invest in your future with the Stow Fractional Investment Plan.

Related: Unlocking Real Estate Investment Opportunities in Lagos Nigeria

Risks associated with investing in real estate in Nigeria and mitigations

12 Comments

Pros and Cons of Investing in Real Estate in Nigeria: All You Need To Know - STOW # February 24, 2023

[…] Related: 10 mistakes to avoid when investing in real estate […]

How to Invest in Real Estate with Little to No Money - STOW February 24, 2023

[…] Related: 10 mistakes to avoid when investing in real estate […]

10 Amazing Benefits Of Investing In Real Estate in Nigeria - STOW March 2, 2023

[…] Related: 10 mistakes to avoid when investing in real estate […]

Unlocking Real Estate Investment Opportunities in Lagos March 7, 2023

[…] Related: 10 mistakes to avoid when investing in real estate […]

Top 15 Locations for Real Estate Investment in Lagos March 10, 2023

[…] Related: 10 mistakes to avoid when investing in real estate […]

The 8 Best Ways to Invest in Real Estate in Nigeria March 22, 2023

[…] Related: 10 mistakes to avoid when investing in real estate […]

The Top 9 Real Estate Investment Apps in Nigeria March 26, 2023

[…] Related: 10 mistakes to avoid when investing in real estate […]

Factors to consider before investing in real estate in Nigeria: 7 of the best - STOW March 27, 2023

[…] “10 Mistakes to Avoid When Investing in Real Estate“ […]

Top Financing Options for Buying a House in Nigeria - STOW April 10, 2023

[…] Related: 10 mistakes to avoid when investing in real estate […]

Risks associated with investing in real estate in Nigeria April 17, 2023

[…] 10 mistakes to avoid when investing in real estate […]

Properties in High Demand in the Nigerian Real Estate Market April 23, 2023

[…] 10 mistakes to avoid when investing in real estate […]

Nigerian Real Estate Investment Blogs to Help You Build Your Wealth May 24, 2023

[…] 10 Mistakes to Avoid When Investing in Real Estate […]