All across the country, we’re seeing real estate markets break records. Limited inventory, low interest rates, and a flurry of buyers, have conspired to create the perfect opportunity for sellers to get top dollar for their properties.

But, with these new sales records, a lot of buyers are out of luck.

That is, unless they’re in the market for an investment property. It’s been said that any time there’s a great shift in a market or industry, opportunity comes knocking.

For example, the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation has been offering eligible buyers access to their multi-family commercial residential program for years now as a way to encourage affordable housing solutions. As of late, this program has seen increased interest because it permits borrowers to enter the investment market with as little as 15% down, amortization periods of up to 40 years, and interest rates for buildings with at least five units that are comparable to the best residential end-user rates. Although there may not be as much inventory available, there are also fewer buyers with whom to compete, partly due to the relatively unknown nature of how the program works, and partly because of the down payment requirement to get into these properties.

Investors have long had the advantage when it comes to buying homes. They’re typically more analytical and less emotional come offer day, have larger down payments to work with and treat transactions as business decisions.

There are also some great advantages for first-time investors who are looking to enter the market now. Current homeowners are experiencing double-digit property value gains and it’s translating into owners sitting on large amounts of untapped equity in their properties. Once unlocked, this is equity that can be used towards the purchase of additional real estate.

Another advantage is low rates on borrowed money. We’re near historical lows, and anyone who’s secured a mortgage over the past five years will almost certainly benefit from a refinanced mortgage interest rate in addition to the equity they can unlock.

But what if you’re not ready to take on the challenge of owning an entire apartment? Or if you don’t have a large down payment available? Well, for those who are interested in getting their feet wet as a real estate investor, something on a smaller scale, like a single-family home or condo, would do the trick.

As the stock market continues soaring and experiencing volatility, it might be worthwhile to look at a more stable long-term investment in real estate. Whether you’re currently a homeowner considering buying an investment property, or you’re a seasoned investor who’s looking to unlock newly built-up equity in your portfolio, now is a good time to seize upon a generational opportunity to invest in real estate.

The Time to Invest in Real Estate Has Never Been Better by Daniel Johanis | Canadian Real Estate Wealth