When you want to buy multi-family homes, you first need to know if they will be profitable. Property classes refer to a property classification system used to determine the potential of an investment property based on a combination of geographic, demographic, and physical characteristics. It is important to note that the difference in each property class is relative to the market it is in. Each class represents a different level of return and risk. This classification system is an important factor for real estate investors to consider when searching for the best investment properties. Therefore, as a real estate investor, it is critical to have a good understanding of the characteristics of each of the different classes of property.
Here are the different property classes and their characteristics.
1. Class A Property
These investment properties are typically newly built (often less than 10 years old) or are historical homes that are fully renovated. They are usually in good condition and have fewer maintenance issues. This makes them ideal as buy-and-hold investments.
The building usually has modern amenities and high-end finishes such as hardwood floors, stainless steel appliances, and granite countertops. Since these properties are usually of high quality, they typically come at a higher purchase price compared to other real estate property classes. This equates to lower cash flow. For beginner real estate investors with more limited funds, this can be a huge downside.
These types of real estate are typically located in areas that are outside of cities. These areas usually have a high percentage of owner-occupied properties. Since they have directly invested in the area, owner-occupants often tend to take good care of their homes and neighborhoods. These neighborhoods will usually have high income, good infrastructure, good school districts, shopping centers, medical facilities, and low crime rates. These factors increase the demand for this type of real estate as they are really in the best locations. Therefore, vacancy rates are often low and rental rates are high. Higher demand also means that investment properties in this class are easier to sell.
Class A properties are generally low-risk assets. They offer security to real estate investors that want investment properties with fewer issues and fewer expenses. And because of their high-quality condition, investors and property owners will find that vacancies are often low.
Related: How to Find Low-Risk Investments When Buying Rental Property
2. Class B Property
These investment properties are quite similar to Class A properties but a bit older (often 10 to 30 years) and are of lower quality. They are generally still in good condition, located in good neighborhoods, and may have features similar to Class A properties. However, they will often require more maintenance. As a result, the acquisition costs are relatively much less. Property buyers can purchase these houses at a higher Cap Rate than similar investment properties in Class A since they are riskier. The properties are mostly investor-owned and are rented out.
Class B properties tend to have lower-income tenants and the rental income is slightly lower than Class A. However, they are quite desirable to a variety of real estate investors since they offer more growth potential. Through some improvements and renovations, they can be upgraded to Class A properties. They also have the potential for steady cash flow.
3. Class C Property
Class C properties are buildings that are more than 30 years old. Many of them show visible deterioration and have outdated systems such as electrical and plumbing systems. These real estate properties are usually in need of numerous repairs and hands-on maintenance. They are often located in less desirable, lower-income neighborhoods with a higher crime rate. Consequently, their rental rates are typically low. People in these areas are either working low-wage jobs or are on government subsidies. The properties are mostly investor-owned.
This type of property class would be a good option for real estate investors due to lower acquisition costs. They have the potential for high cash flow. With the right strategy, they can be very profitable investments. However, they carry a high risk since they need a lot of improvements and ongoing management. Due to their condition, they may also have fewer financing options. Class C investments are suitable for experienced real estate investors and property managers.
4. Class D Property
Class D investments are often older buildings, the same age as Class C properties or older, but are in a more neglected state. They are usually in need of a considerable amount of repairs before they can become inhabitable. These investment properties are often located in undesirable areas where crime and drug abuse are rampant. This poses a challenge to real estate investors when they are trying to get reliable tenants. The tenants usually have lower incomes and credit. This class of properties is generally difficult to work with. However, they have the lowest acquisition costs compared to other property classes. They can also yield the highest price-to-rent ratios. With a good understanding of the local market, Class D properties can provide opportunities for experienced fix and flip investors.
Related: Should I Buy a Rental Property in a Bad Neighborhood If It’s Really Cheap?
The Bottom Line
The assignment of property classes is a subjective process. The process may vary among different investors. There are usually no rigid guidelines when it comes to choosing among different investment property classes. This classification system only helps you in analyzing the potential of a particular deal. It will enable you to understand the quality of an investment property and the neighborhood rating. Each class represents a certain level of reward and risk. Generally, the higher classes will be costly to acquire and have lower initial cash flow but they will have the least maintenance issues and greater potential for appreciation. Lower classes tend to have the most risk and the least appreciation potential. As a real estate investor, you ought to find a strategy that works well for you and that is in line with your goals.
Are you thinking of buying an investment property? Be sure to use Mashvisor’s tools for your analysis. Start your 14-day free trial with Mashvisor and subscribe to our services with a 20% discount after.