Depreciation or Value Increase? What Happens to a House Over Time?
When it comes to real estate investment, one of the
most common questions is: What happens to the value of a house over time?
Will we see an increase in value after a few years, or will depreciation occur,
causing a loss in investment? This is a natural concern, especially for those
who own rental properties. But how can you manage this process and turn it into
a profitable opportunity?
When and how much to invest in the renovation of a rental
property?
A rental property usually needs renovation after a
period of 15-20 years, depending on its condition. This is enough time for
natural wear and tear to accumulate, as well as the house’s inability to meet
modern living standards. Renovation costs vary from 10% to 30% of the
property's value, while larger interventions, such as replacing plumbing
systems or installing new insulation, may require higher investments. However,
regular maintenance helps not only to preserve the property's value but also to
attract tenants.
How to calculate renovation costs and create a
profitable plan for a rental property?
If you want to create a plan that will bring profits
from your rental property, there are several steps you should follow.
- Evaluate the renovation period
-
The renovation plan should be long-term. Assess how often renovations will
be needed, typically every 10-15 years. This will help you plan and
prepare for the expenses that may arise over time.
- Calculate renovation costs
-
You need to determine the renovation expenses, including materials, labor,
and any assistance you may need from contractors for the project. Be sure
to get multiple quotes to have a clear idea of the budget.
- Set a period for the expenses
-
Once you know when renovations are due, divide the planned expenses over
the rental period. For example, if renovations happen every 10 years, you
can calculate the annual expenses by dividing the total cost by the rental
period.
- Calculate other expenses
-
In addition to renovations, you should include other expenses such as
regular property maintenance, marketing costs to promote the property, and
managing the rental.
- Include in the return on investment (ROI)
-
The return on investment (ROI) is an important indicator that helps you
understand how much profit you can generate from your real estate
investment. Use renovation expenses to calculate the ROI and the net
profit you can achieve for the year.
- Update the plan
-
Real estate is dynamic, and new conditions may arise over time. Make sure
your investment and renovation plan remains flexible and is updated to
adjust to market demands and new economic conditions.
Conclusion
Investing in the renovation of a rental property can be
a profitable opportunity if managed properly. By evaluating and calculating
expenses carefully, you can achieve a good return on investment and ensure that
your property retains its value over time.