By Maria Irene
As the world evolves and new technologies emerge, the way we live and work is also changing. This shift is affecting every industry and real estate is no exception. With the advent of artificial intelligence (AI) and 3D printing, there is a growing concern that these technologies will disrupt the construction industry, making property ownership a liability rather than an asset. In this article, we will explore the reasons why investing in real estate is no longer a safe bet and why it may be wise to look for alternative investment options.
The Valuation Problem
One of the main reasons why investing in real estate is becoming a riskier proposition is that property valuations are unsustainable. This is due to a variety of factors including rising council rates, expensive repairs, and a lack of affordability for the average person. With property prices continuing to rise, it’s becoming increasingly difficult for people to get onto the property ladder and this is likely to drive down demand in the long term.
Demographic Changes
Demographic changes are also set to play a significant role in the future of real estate. With populations in some countries set to fall off a cliff, there will be a reduction in demand for property, leading to a drop in prices. Japan and Italy are already classic examples of this phenomenon, with property prices in these countries having stagnated for many years.
Speculating on the Future
Investing in real estate also requires speculation about the future, something that many people are reluctant to do. With so many variables at play, it’s difficult to predict what will happen to property prices in 30 years time. This makes it a riskier investment option for those who prefer to have a clearer picture of their future returns.
The Capital Outlay
Another factor that is deterring people from investing in real estate is the huge capital outlay required. Property prices are at an all-time high and many people simply don’t have the resources to make such a large investment. This means that they are forced to take out loans, increasing their risk and exposure to financial instability.
Managing Rentals is Not Easy
Finally, managing rentals is not as easy as it may seem. There is a lot of time and effort involved in repairs, maintenance and dealing with magistrate cases for unpaid rent. This can be both time-consuming and expensive, and it’s not always possible to recoup these costs through rental income.
AI and 3D Printing Will Disrupt the Construction Industry
The construction industry is also set to be disrupted by AI and 3D printing. These technologies are already changing the way that buildings are designed and constructed, and they are likely to have a profound impact on the real estate market. With open-source AI available, there is a growing concern that centralization is over and that our cities are structured around current forms of employment, such as offices and factories.
There are many reasons why investing in real estate is no longer a safe bet. With unsustainable valuations, demographic changes, the need for speculation, the huge capital outlay required, and the difficulties associated with managing rentals, it’s clear that this is not an investment option for everyone. In light of these factors, it may be wise to consider alternative investment options, such as stocks, gold, Bitcoin, and other cryptocurrencies. By doing so, you can ensure that you’re better prepared for the future and the changing world that we live in.
Representational Photo by Sean Pollock on Unsplash
