Property owners in Sarasota face many decisions regarding managing their rental properties or considering a new potential rental. One of the most critical decisions is what property class they want to invest in and how a Class A, Class B, or Class C property will impact their returns.
What do property classifications mean? Our Sarasota property management team has compiled a quick overview for investors below. Build your knowledge and consider these characteristics when choosing a neighborhood for your next real estate investment!
About Class A Neighborhoods
This is Sarasota’s highest quality housing rental space and often offers luxurious amenities like pools, fitness centers, etc. These units are typically high-end condos or apartments in a residential building with more than three stories. For single-family homes, Class A properties are "pride of ownership" homes that can be excellent showpieces for friends, family, and colleagues.
Because these buildings usually offer the best amenities and nicest features, this type of unit will also have higher rent rates. Many investors find it challenging to maintain these properties at the high level they need to maintain their "luxury" status. It can also be challenging to find and keep residents willing to pay high monthly rent for Class A rental.
When considering one of these properties, work with Gulf Coast property managers to estimate potential rental rates and maintenance expenses to get an accurate picture of potential returns. If the costs are too high to generate a worthwhile ROI, a Class A investment might not be the best fit for your real estate portfolio.
Class B Neighborhoods Are Often Excellent Investment Opportunities
"Class B" doesn't have to mean a "subpar" rental property. Class B real estate investments are typically older, two-story apartments, condos, single-family homes, or townhouses. These units will often have more affordable rental rates and lower maintenance costs, making them excellent investments with ideal returns.
This class is perfect for investors who target renters who don't need luxury amenities but want an affordable rental option with lower monthly rents. These investments often appeal to blue-collar families and individuals because they make excellent places to find affordable, quality housing in safe neighborhoods with plenty of nearby amenities.
Investors enjoy Class B property because of the potential for high returns on their money after all costs are considered. Partnering with a Sarasota property management company is the best way to find optimal Class B investments, conduct appropriate renovations with in-demand amenities, and price rentals competitively for quality renters in this market.
Gulf Coast Class C Neighborhoods Require More Work
A Class C investment property is the highest risk for investors in the Sarasota area. These are single-family homes or multi-family buildings that may require significant repairs and updates to bring them up to code, so they're safe and livable again. In these neighborhoods, there may also be higher crime rates and more residents who have negative rental histories or previous evictions on their records.
The high risks associated with a Class C residential property come from potential maintenance expenses (higher than Class B) and vacancy rates. When tenants can't find affordable housing nearby due to expensive monthly rents, vacancies become commonplace—negating any chance at rental revenue until new renters move into the space!
This type of investment requires sound knowledge about how to carefully select a potential property, set appropriate rental rates, reduce potential liabilities for criminal activities in a property, and the benefits of partnering with a professional Gulf Coast property management company to maximize returns and minimize risks.
Since these areas often have higher crime rates, investors need additional security precautions for Class C properties, like alarms systems and high-quality locks. Thorough tenant screening is also a high priority when owning and operating rentals in a Class C neighborhood. Property managers can handle these tasks for you!
What Property Classifications Make Sense For My Portfolio?
A residential property investment in Sarasota, FL, can be a perfect fit for anyone's portfolio if the investor takes the time to consider their personal goals and objectives. Many variables go into an ROI calculation—and there is no "one size fits all" rental property classification for an investor!
Each rental neighborhood has its own unique characteristics that need to be considered when completing this equation. When analyzing your next investment, a full-service property manager in Sarasota FL can provide a thorough rental market analysis and walk through the property with you. Run the numbers and make sure your next investment—whether it's in a Class A, Class B, or Class C neighborhood—has the capability to generate the ROI you need to meet your financial goals!
Make A, B, or C Property Investments for Best ROIs With Sarasota Property Management
You’ve probably heard of the terms Class A, B, and C when it comes to investment properties—but what do they really mean? How can you choose which type is right for your portfolio? The best way to find out is by working with a Sarasota property manager who will analyze each property and help guide your decision-making process. We at Gulf Coast Property Management are here to help with expert property management services! Reach out to us today if you have any questions about all three types of investments or want some guidance on choosing where to invest in real estate.