Post dinner re-cap

Tonight was an enjoyable evening where I got to understand better a family of real estate investors. They have a good sized portfolio which they have built over a number of years. In the recent past they grew things more aggressively so they are also dealing with the impact of the credit crunch. By that I mean the portfolio has suffered a bit in terms of value. As they have been investing for longer than most in the UK the equity position is still good and the LTV is rather favorable. The present mix of loans makes for some seriously positive cash flow. The risk is mostly that the present level of rates is not sustainable as the BoE will need to move things up to fight inflation.

We discussed how it could be possible to lock in rates that are still pretty favorable on a 5 year fixed basis. Step two would be to use the 5 years to then re-invent the business so the cash flow can support higher interest rates or the debt has been reduced to match what the present cash flow can support.

There needs to be a follow-up discussion where the fine details are reviewed. The broad picture makes sense. The next steps are no so clear as that depends on the fine details.

Lease options are a possible tool to be used. They could be employed in two ways. One would be to identify tenant buyers who are well suited to specific properties and where the tenant buyer is willing to pay a higher rent in exchange for a credit on the future purchase. The other tact is to use lease options to increase the portfolio and to increase the net income so the overall debt levels are more sustainable.

-John
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