Individual Investing Blog

The State of Financial Preparedness in America – Why Multifamily Investments Could Be the Right Move for Your Future

Written by Ellie Perlman | Nov 18, 2024 5:15:00 AM
Financial readiness in today’s world can feel like an uphill battle. Many Americans are facing real struggles with saving, retirement planning, and managing debt. A recent study by TIAA Institute and Ipsos dives into this topic, shining a light on the financial challenges facing many individuals and families. As passive multifamily investors, this information is more than just interesting, it’s a helpful lens to view why real estate, especially multifamily investments, can play a powerful role in our financial security.
 
Americans Are Struggling to Prepare for Emergencies
 

Imagine facing an unexpected expense—like a sudden car repair or medical bill—and having no savings to cover it. Unfortunately, that’s a reality for a lot of people. In fact, 41% of Americans don’t have an emergency fund, and nearly 15% wouldn’t be able to gather $2,000 if needed​. This financial fragility can have long-lasting effects, particularly on households looking to build a stable future.

That’s where multifamily investments come in. Unlike the unpredictable stock market, multifamily properties provide a more reliable income stream. This consistent cash flow can offer investors a valuable cushion, helping to create a foundation of financial stability. If you’re looking for an investment that feels safer and more dependable, multifamily real estate might be the answer.

Retirement Savings Are Falling Short
 

Retirement is a big concern for many, and the study found that only 67% of Americans have retirement savings, with Black and Native American households reporting even lower savings rates​. And among young people, confidence in being able to retire at all is notably low. This is especially worrying when you consider that Social Security might not be as reliable for future generations.

For passive investors, multifamily real estate can be a smart way to build an income source that doesn’t rely on government programs or a single employer. Understanding whether you prioritize cash flow or capital gains is essential in choosing investments that align with your goals. With a well-chosen multifamily investment, you can start building passive income today that will continue to grow as you approach retirement. This isn’t just about making money now—it’s about creating a financial safety net that will support you when you need it most.

Debt Is a Common Burden, and Financial Guidance Is Lacking
 

Americans carry a mix of debt, from student loans to credit card balances that just don’t seem to go away. The study showed that one-third of people are unable to pay off their credit card balance each month​. This can create a cycle of debt that’s tough to break free from. Multifamily investing offers a potential solution here, too. The passive income generated from real estate can help reduce the need to rely on credit for everyday expenses, giving you a chance to get ahead financially rather than just getting by.

Another surprising finding: only 21% of Americans not yet retired have consulted a financial professional. This lack of guidance means many people are navigating their financial journeys alone. If you’re feeling uncertain about where to start, connecting with an experienced real estate sponsor can provide insights into income-generating investments. They can guide you through the process, making sure you’re making informed decisions.

Multifamily Investments: A Smart Step Toward Financial Stability
 

The study’s findings highlight the financial challenges faced by many Americans today. With uncertainty around emergency savings, retirement, and debt, having a stable income source is more important than ever. Multifamily real estate can be a powerful tool for building that stability.

By investing in multifamily properties, you’re not only setting yourself up for steady income, you’re also taking control of your financial future in a way that many traditional investments simply don’t offer. For example, those looking to defer taxes while building wealth, understanding the 1031 exchange process can open valuable opportunities. As we continue to see the gaps in financial preparedness, multifamily investing stands out as a strong, accessible choice for those looking to build a more secure financial future.

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About Ellie Perlman
 
Ellie Perlman is the founder and CEO of Blue Lake Capital, a woman owned multifamily real estate investment firm focused on partnering with family offices and accredited investors to build and preserve generational wealth. Since its founding in 2017, Blue Lake has successfully acquired and operated multifamily assets across high-growth U.S. markets, completing $1B+ in transactions.

At Blue Lake Capital, Ellie and her team work exclusively with family offices and accredited investors, offering carefully curated investment opportunities that emphasize long-term wealth creation, stability, and risk-adjusted returns. A defining aspect of Blue Lake’s investment strategy is its integration of advanced AI-driven analytics and data science into the entire lifecycle of acquisitions and asset management. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, the firm executes data-driven forecasting on market trends, asset performance, and tenant behavior, ensuring strategic decision-making and optimized returns.

In addition to leading Blue Lake Capital, Ellie is the original founder and host of "REady2Scale - Real Estate Investing" podcast, which provides insights into multifamily real estate, alternative investments, and finance.

Ellie began her career as a commercial real estate attorney, structuring and negotiating complex transactions for one of Israel’s leading development firms. She later transitioned into property management, overseeing over $100M in assets for Israel’s largest energy company.

Ellie holds a Master’s in Law from Bar-Ilan University in Israel and an MBA from MIT Sloan School of Management.

You can learn more about Blue Lake Capital and Ellie Perlman at www.bluelake-capital.com
 
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