How to Get Started Raising Capital For Real Estate

One of the biggest questions new real estate sponsors have is how to start raising capital for real estate deals. 

Without capital, real estate investments don’t happen. Luckily raising private money from your network or existing avenues might be easier than you might think. 

This article is going to walk you through some of the best ways to start raising capital for real estate projects and the best ways to successfully close deals your first few deals.

What Does Raising Capital For Real Estate Deals Mean?

Raising capital for real estate deals involves securing the necessary funds to finance property acquisitions, development, or improvements. 

It typically requires investors to pool resources from various capital sources, which can include friends and family, investment managers, crowdfunding, hard money loans, and IRA accounts.

Real estate sponsors often get started by raising capital from friends and family who are willing to invest in their projects. As they gain experience and a track record of successful investments, they may move up the food chain to raise capital from high net worth individuals, family offices, and institutional investors such as private equity firms and pension funds - which are some of the largest capital pools on earth.

While it may seem like a daunting task, the key is to focus on building relationships with different types of capital sources and growing your investor base over time. This strategic approach is critical to achieving long-term success in raising capital for real estate investing and being able to do bigger and bigger deals.

5 Ways to Raise Capital For Real Estate Investments

There are several ways to raise capital for real estate investments, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are the five most popular methods.

Friends and Family

One of the most common ways to start investing in real estate is by raising capital through friends and family. This is often referred to as the "friends and family round" and can be done legally through Rule 506(b) of Regulation D.

Approaching people who already know and trust you can be an effective way to secure the necessary funds to kickstart your capital raise.  However, it's essential to approach this process with caution. Investing and borrowing money from friends and family can sometimes strain relationships, so it's important to maintain clear communication and set realistic expectations. 

This may include drafting a formal agreement that outlines the terms of the investment, including the expected returns, timeline, and potential risks. It's also important to be transparent about the investment process, providing regular updates on the status of the investment and any potential issues that may arise.

While investing with friends and family can be a great way to get started in raising capital for real estate, it's important to remember that this is just the first step and it's hard to build a large, successful syndication business this way. Nevertheless, this step is incredibly important in getting the reps and sets of managing other people's money. 

Investment Managers

Private investment funds and offices that manage other people's money can provide capital for your next real estate deal.

By partnering with experienced investment managers, you can gain access to a larger pool of capital and potentially benefit from their expertise and connections in the industry.  

Importantly, they can also bring credibility to your project, as their involvement can signal to other investors that your deal has been thoroughly vetted and is worth investing in. It's important to carefully vet potential investment managers to ensure that their investment strategy and risk profile align with your own. 

Lastly, be aware that investment managers typically charge fees for their services, which can impact the returns on your investment. Accessing some of these pools of capital can run from 3% - 7% of the contributed capital.

Crowdfunding

Crowdfunding is a relatively new method for raising capital for real estate projects that became available in the US in 2013 through the JOBS Act and 506c of Regulation D.

Since then, a multitude of online platforms have emerged that allow sponsors to pool small contributions from a large number of investors. However, crowdfunding platforms typically require experienced sponsors with a strong track record and a number of years of experience before they will allow them to raise capital on their platforms. This is because several companies faced issues with inexperienced sponsors in the early days of crowdfunding. 

Although crowdfunding offers increased accessibility for both investors and sponsors, it can also involve higher fees and regulatory compliance requirements.

Hard Money Loans

Hard money loans and private money loans are popular ways to raise capital for real estate. 

These are typically short-term loans provided by private lenders, usually secured by the property being financed. Private money loans, on the other hand, come from individual investors or investment groups.

While these options can provide quick access to capital, they often come with higher interest rates and shorter repayment terms.

Self-Directed Accounts

Self-directed accounts, such as self-directed IRAs or 401(k)s, allow individuals to invest their retirement savings in alternative assets like real estate. 

By using these IRA providers and their network, you can often market to these accounts to get them to invest in your real estate project, giving them the ability to diversify their portfolio and enjoy the tax advantages. However, there are strict regulations governing the marketing and asset types that self-directed accounts can invest in.

Raising Capital for Real Estate FAQs

What are some common mistakes to avoid when raising capital for real estate projects?

Some common mistakes to avoid when raising capital for real estate projects include:

• Not having a clear investment strategy and objectives.
• Failing to build a strong network of potential investors.
• Overestimating potential returns and underestimating risks.
• Insufficient due diligence on the property and market conditions.
• Lack of transparency and communication with investors.
• By avoiding these pitfalls, you can increase your chances of successfully raising capital and executing a profitable real estate project.

Is it Easier to Raise Capital for Residential or Commercial Properties?

The ease of raising capital for residential or commercial properties largely depends on the investor's experience, connections, and the specific project. 

Residential properties might be more accessible for beginners due to the familiarity of the market and lower investment requirements. In contrast, commercial properties often require larger capital investments but can offer more significant returns and diversification opportunities.

Can Working with a Mentor or Experienced Partner Help in Raising Capital for Real Estate Projects?

Yes, partnering with a mentor or an experienced real estate professional can greatly assist in raising capital. 

A knowledgeable partner can help you navigate the complexities of the industry, provide valuable insights, and introduce you to potential investors. Additionally, having an experienced partner can increase your credibility and instill confidence in potential investors. 

If you're new to real estate investing, consider finding a mentor or partnering with someone who has a proven track record in the industry.

How long does it typically take to raise capital for a real estate project?

The timeline for raising capital for a real estate project can vary significantly depending on factors such as the project's size, complexity, and your existing network of potential investors. It could take anywhere from a few weeks to several months or even longer to secure the necessary funds. 

To expedite the process, it's important to have a well-prepared pitch, solid investment materials, and a strong network of potential investors. Additionally, maintaining clear and open communication throughout the capital raising process can help build trust and foster long-lasting relationships with investors.

What are the fastest ways to raise capital for real estate projects?

The quickest way to raise capital for real estate projects varies depending on individual circumstances and resources. 

However, leveraging personal connections, such as friends and family, or obtaining hard money loans from private lenders, can provide quicker access to capital compared to traditional bank loans or crowdfunding campaigns.

The Bottom Line

Raising capital for real estate projects involves exploring various financing options, showcasing your experience and team, and presenting attractive investment opportunities to potential investors. 

By taking these steps, you can secure the necessary funds to turn your real estate dreams into reality. If you’re looking to raise money through private investors for your next real estate project, you can learn more about how GP Flow can help here.