The Bellwether, April 1, 2025

urban areas where walkability is a selling point. However, mixed-use properties require careful planning and financing. Banks may be hesitant to lend because they don’t fit neatly into either a residential or commercial loan category. Managing both residential and business tenants can also be complicated, as their needs and lease structures differ significantly. Vacant land is one of the simplest forms of real estate investment, but it requires patience. There are no tenants, no maintenance, and often very low carrying costs. Investors make money either by selling the land after it appreciates or by leasing it for uses such as farming, parking lots, or billboards. The biggest downside is that land does not generate immediate income unless leased. Additionally, zoning restrictions can severely limit how the land can be used, and there’s no guarantee that development in the area will increase its value. Choosing the right investment property comes down to understanding your goals. If you want passive income, residential and multi-family properties are solid choices, though they require hands-on management. If you’re after high returns and are comfortable with more risk, commercial and industrial properties can be lucrative but require significant capital. If you prefer a long-term play with low maintenance, vacant land could be the right fit, though it comes with uncertainty. No matter which type of real estate investment interests you, the key is due diligence. Research the local market, vet your property manager or agent, and always read the fine print before signing anything. Real estate is full of opportunities, but it’s also full of people ready to take advantage of uninformed investors. The more you know, the better positioned you are to make smart, profitable decisions.

Sandra Kirkland is a real estate educator and advocate, helping buyers, sellers, and investors avoid costly mistakes. After experiencing deception firsthand, she dedicated herself to exposing unethical practices in real estate.

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