Empowering Real Estate Success
Cambridge Finance’s mission is to empower you to master the business of real estate. We will give you the tools and inspiration to learn, lead and achieve your own success. Let's build the built environment.
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Bespoke Financial Models
Structure your real estate deals based on bespoke financial models in Microsoft Excel. Our team has an enormous amount of cross-sector experience and we have been at the forefront of many investment decisions.
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Diverse Real Estate Training
Our training programmes encompass office, retail, hotels, logistics, student housing, residential, healthcare, mixed-use, shopping centres; listed and non-listed funds; development and income-producing assets.
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Training Courses

Cambridge Finance’s training courses aim to demystify property as a financial asset to both finance and real estate professionals

A Year in Review – 2021

As 2021 comes to a close, I can only think this year was not fully what we had expected. 2020 was the year the world stood still, whilst 2021 has been a time of highs and lows and navigating ourselves through many periods of uncertainty.

Given the hardships this year, I am proud to share our achievements to date:

In February we launched our Mastermind Club, an online community of financial modellers meeting fortnightly for case study practice and networking. Since inception over 150 people have joined our sessions.

In June we shared the stage with Microsoft as the lead sponsor for our first virtual Financial Modelling Summit which attracted over 500 financial modellers from across the globe.

In September we went back to face to face training. Hybrid training is here to stay and in 2022 we will be offering both in person and live virtual sessions.

In November we started our scholarship programme designed for real estate professionals from under represented groups with little or no access to further education opportunities. 

Upcoming in 2022

We have many exciting things in store for you in 2022! We have invested in new technology for training, we are launching new products and we are growing our bespoke model consulting service.  Stay tuned on our socials for all our updates!

Thank you

We are proud of all that we have achieved during another difficult year with hard work and resilience. As we strive to deliver the best in class training solutions to our corporate clients, we are also passionately committed to ensuring this aligns with our values of diversity, equity and inclusion. We extend a huge gratitude to our candidates, our clients and our industry partners for supporting us and inspiring us to be the best at what we do.

Wishing you and your loved ones an enjoyable and safe festive season. Onwards and upwards to a positive 2022!

Warm regards,

Maria 

Geared Cash Flow: Leveraging Wealth With Leverage

Discover the revolutionary concept of geared cash flow and how it is transforming wealth in finance and real estate. Here you will learn the significance and benefits of geared CF. Not only this, we will teach you how to implement geared cash flow strategies and how they differ from conventional cash flow methods.

The geared cash flow is an essential concept in finance and real estate. It is a path that is transforming the approach to make wealth for investors. Let’s dig deeper into its definition, importance, and how it is different from the predictable cash flow method.

What is Geared Cash Flow?

The concept of Geared cash flow entails the utilisation of borrowed resources to enhance the potential returns on investment. This approach utilises the leverage of debt in order to optimise financial returns.

Importance of Geared Cash Flow in Finance

The traditional cash flow relies completely on the current resources, while the geared CF allows the investors to expand their reach. As a result, it positively affects their earning potential. This strategy opens the doors to several opportunities that couldn’t be reachable otherwise. This approach also accelerates growth and accumulation of wealth.

Segregating Geared Cash Flow from Conventional Cash Flow

Source of Funding:

·        Conventional Cash Flow:

Depends exclusively on the resources that are now accessible and the revenue derived from pre-existing investments.

·        Geared Cash Flow:

Utilises external financial resources, typically in the form of loans or lines of credit, to augment pre-existing assets.

Risk and Return Dynamics:

·        Conventional Cash Flow:

Commonly considered as low risk, as it depends on the existing income sources and assets.

·        Geared Cash Flow:

This includes a higher level of risk due to the borrowed funds. Nonetheless, this risk factor is balanced with higher returns significantly.

Amplification of Returns:

·        Conventional Cash Flow:

It provides a stable yet potentially slower pace of wealth with time.

·        Geared Cash Flow:

It offers potential for extremely high growth, as returns are deliberated not only on the capital investment but on borrowed funds too.

Diversification Opportunities:

·        Conventional Cash Flow:

Diversification initiatives may be constrained by the limited availability of resources.

·        Geared Cash Flow:

Eases divergence by leveraging external capital, and enables investments in a larger range of prospects.

Benefits Of Geared Cash Flow

The geared CF bids a wide range of perks that make it an ideal strategy for real estate investors. Let’s dig into the essential benefits:

Greater Returns through Leverage:

The geared CF lets investors augment their returns with the tactic of borrowing capital aside from their own. It means that even a small investment can produce high profits when an investor leverages effectively.

Consuming Other People’s Money (OPM) for Profit:

OPM is the most influential aspect of geared cash flow. The ability to use the borrowed funds to finance savings. By adopting this technique, investors are able to expand their portfolios and chase more extensive profitable prospects.

Tax Implications and Advantages:

Geared CF often comes with tax benefits. The tax deductibility of interest on borrowed funds can potentially decrease the investor’s overall tax obligation. This has the potential to greatly improve the overall return on capital.

Geared Cash Flow Example:

A real estate investor who utilises the strategy of geared CF strategy to buy property on rent. They put down one portion of the buying price as a down payment. This payment is ideal for securing a mortgage for the rest of the property. The income that comes from rent shelters the mortgage payments, and the property escalates over time. In this way, the investor gains in the following ways:

•         Higher Returns:

The value of property increases which provides a huge return on the total investment. The total investment includes the down payment and borrowed funds.

•         Utilising OPM:

The loan/ borrowed amount permits the investor to control property that is worth more than the first down payment. Thus, leverages the investors’ capital for profit.

•         Tax Advantages:

The interest given on the loan is tax-deductible, which decreases the investor’s total tax liability.

Implementing Geared Cash Flow Strategies

Using borrowed money or leverage in geared CF methods can increase the potential returns from an investment account. Several types of financial tools, like credit accounts, options, and structured goods, can be used to do this. The aim is to enhance the cash flow generated from investments through interest income, dividends, or capital gains.

Practical Steps To Implement Geared Cash Flow Strategies Into Your Investment Plans:

1. Assess Risk Tolerance:

Before practical implementation of any geared CF strategy, it is important to assess your tolerance risk level. Leveraging increases the chances of gaining and losing. Thus, understanding your comfort level with risk is critically important.

2. Define Investment Objectives:

Clearly defining the goals including the expectations for the returns will assist in selecting the assets and the leverage amount you may utilise.

3. Select Suitable Assets:

Consider assets that have a record of generating cash flow consistently. This includes dividend-paying bonds, stocks, and other income-producing assets.

4. Understand Borrowing Cost:

Have enough knowledge of interest rates linked with borrowed funds. The leverage cost of borrowing impacts the complete strategy of returns overall.

 5. Use Diversification:

Spread your risk by having a variety of investments. Don’t put too much of your money into a single product or area, as this can make you more vulnerable to changes in the market.

 6. Set Realistic Expectations:

The geared CF strategy will increase your chances of returns but with risks too. So stay realistic about what you are able to achieve and do not make highly optimistic assumptions.

 7. Monitor Market Condition

Staying informed about the market and economic conditions. Geared strategies are highly sensitive to market movements, so proper monitoring is essential.

8. Implement Risk Management Techniques:

Consider implementing risk management strategies like stop-loss orders and setting specific exit places to limit possible losses.

Diversification Strategies for Balanced Risk Management

By keeping money in several kinds of investments in several areas and businesses, you can reduce the risk. Diversifying by industry, time frame, geographic location, asset, and currency is a huge part of this strategy, with borrowing and continuous portfolio changes. It reduces the risk but does not eradicate all of it. For a successful execution of a geared strategy, it’s smart to talk to our real estate and financial experts.

All Things Considered…

So if you want to get more out of your investments, considering cash flow strategies will be highly beneficial. In a short span, you will need to start saving at turbo speed. Involving the borrowed money shortly will enhance your earnings. Get set to receive a bigger paycheck from interest, selling investments, and dividends eventually.

But, just don’t forget that you need to be careful and understand the risk factors. Spreading out your investments, or using diversification, is just like adding different ingredients to one recipe. Careful consideration will help you produce a balanced domino effect. All in all, choosing a geared cash flow strategy will be your golden ticket to supercharge your savings and enter a wealthier future. Visit Cambridge Finance to get the help of our experts. Good luck stakeholders!

Refurbish, Stabilise, Refinance, and Hold Strategy for A Property Investor

With the Refurbish, Stabilise, Refinance, and Hold strategy, you can get into the fast-paced world of real estate investing. This complete guide for a property investor talks about important techniques, financial modelling, and facts that add value.

There are many smart ways to invest in real estate, but the Redevelop, Refinance, and Hold approach is one of the most interesting. Think of it as a project where we take houses and change them completely. We do some renovation magic and some financial magic, and then we watch the value go through the roof. From the expansion of floor space to understanding the pace of redevelopment, each move matters here. We will not only break down the essential components but also add some facts for tackling the challenges on this path. Whether you are a property investor pro or a beginner, grasping the main concepts will set you up for success in real estate ventures. Let’s delve into the world of refurbishment, stabilisation, refinance, and holding strategy.

Real Estate Development And Value-Added Strategies Financial Modelling For Property Investors

This real estate financial model that we are going to discuss includes the common active management techniques for a property investor to enhance cash flow. Not only this, but it will help to enhance the property value in the future. For instance, the techniques in this real estate model include renovations, repurposing, and changing the capital expenditures to better market rents, or ERV.

This model can deal with the most common active management techniques for real estate value-added strategies, such as renovations, repurposing, and change of use. Capital expenditures can be incorporated into this model, along with an improved estimated rental value.

This model can also be used if the developer is going to hold the asset because even if there is a holding option, the analysis will need to incorporate a terminal value, which is similar to selling the asset. 

Redevelop, Refinance, and Hold Model – Now that you are familiar with the value-add model, adding the other scenarios of redeveloping, refinancing, and holding is pretty much the same process.

The major transformation areas in this case that we’re adding are as follows:

Changes in the built-up area: 

This idea incorporates enhancing the floorplate by adding one floor or increasing the building’s efficiency. For instance, i.e. the NIA to GIA ratio.

Increase the ERV: 

With redevelopment, we will enhance the interior to make it aesthetically sustainable. The credentials of the property for a higher ERV are warranted.

Construction period: 

This will be based on redevelopment works. Thus, the second lease will begin after the reconstruction phase and allow for vacancy periods as well.

Working capital calculations: 

This is an important step that includes operating income and costs, which should be carefully considered when raising the development debt finance.

Redevelopment costs and timeline: 

It includes calculating the hard and soft costs as well as the time for lead-in, vacancy, stabilisation, and redevelopment.

Refinance: 

It includes refinancing senior construction as well as mezzanine debt in the long term. For instance, it ensures much more affordable senior debt.

This financial real estate model is quite similar to the existing one but with some adaptations. All of the above-mentioned adaptations are explained to quickly visualise the benefits they can bring to the property investor.

10 Facts Real Estate Investors Must Know About Redeveloping, Refinance, and Holding Strategy

Facts Real Estate Investors Must Know About Redeveloping, Refinance, and Holding Strategy

Below are 10 facts for a property investor to know about redeveloping, refinancing, and holding strategy. Let’s dig into them.

1. Value maximisation:

The refinance, redevelop, and hold strategy emphasises enhancing property value purposefully through a combination of expansion, restructuring, and renovation.

2. Long-Term Vision:

Some of the real estate strategies focus on prioritising quick returns; this approach is taken towards long-term investment. It emphasises sustained growth and enhanced profits over time.

3. Renovation Magic:

Renovation is one of the main components of this strategy to make it successful for the property investor. This includes making strategic improvements to a property. For instance, cosmetic upgrades can lead to structural changes.

4. Financial Restructuring:

The strategy also includes refinancing current debts to secure favourable terms, potentially lowering the interest rate, and extending loan periods for better cash flow.

5. Market Sensitivity:

Success with the strategy requires a deep understanding of local real estate market trends. Adapting to changing market situations is vital for enhancing returns.

6. Risk Management:

As an investment, there is an inherent risk. Factors such as market fluctuations, unexpected expenses, and unexpected construction delays should be considered carefully.

7. Team Collaboration:

Executing the marketing strategy efficiently requires partnerships with several professionals, including contractors, advisors, and real estate agents.

8. Diverse property types:

This strategy is applicable to several kinds of properties, including commercial, residential, and mixed developments, making it adaptable in the real estate arena.

9. Tax considerations:

The property investor must be aware of the tax implications linked to this strategy. It includes several benefits from deductions and depreciation for capital expenditures.

10.     Exit strategies:

While the main goal is to hold and generate long-term income. Also, investors must have exit strategies aligned, which include selling the property at the right time or passing it to their heirs.

Remember, successful implementation of this strategy is possible with a careful balance of financial acumen, creativity, and market awareness. Also, seek professional advice before embarking on the real estate investment attempt.

Wrap Up!

To wrap up our in-depth exploration of refurbishment, stabilisation, refinance, and hold strategy, this approach must be a unique and strong tool for a property investor. With a strategic approach to blending renovation, expansion, and restructuring, property investors can maximise profits after transforming properties into beneficial assets. Don’t forget that patience and precision are allies in this struggle to become successful.

As you go embark upon your own real estate ventures, be aware that each property asset is unique and there’s no universal formula. Thus, adaptability for every opportunity will be your highest asset. Surround yourself with Cambridge Finance’s professional property investors and stay tuned to know the latest market tendencies.

So, go ahead with confidence, keeping in mind the knowledge of the above facts to refurbish, stabilise, refinance, and hold strategy. Also, take calculated risks as a property investor and let your investment flourish. To your continued success in the real estate industry, here’s to you!

Understanding The Instability Of The UK Real Estate Market

Cambridge Finance will take you on a deep dive into the UK real estate market, looking at how it affects people’s and the country’s economic well-being and how economic conditions, interest rates, and government policies affect it.

In this broad exploration of the UK real estate market’s instability, we will look into the vital factors that influence its dynamics. Also, recognising the supreme significance of the real estate market in shaping individual and economic prosperity, we pinpoint its role as a main driver of economic constancy. The current developments include a shift towards higher digitization and sustainable housing, spotting the flexibility of the UK real estate market

After that, we will explore the relationship between real estate and economic conditions, with an impact on GDP growth and employment rates. Changes in interest rates, housing demand, supply, and government policies all have an impact on market shifts. Moreover, we’ll notice how international trading, political stability, and public opinions affect real estate trends. In the end, we highlight the significance of understanding the factors necessary to navigate the instability in the real estate landscape efficiently. 

So without any delay, let’s begin.

Factors And Influences That Cause Instability In The Real Estate Market Of The UK

Have a look at the factors and influences that are the major causes of instability in the UK real estate market.

·   Importance of the UK Real Estate Market

The real estate market holds massive importance as a main driver of the notions of individual and economic wealth and every individual’s wealth. It serves as a key factor for economic stability and reflects on the overall financial security of the country. Apart from being the main component of the nation’s economy, the real estate market profoundly influences the livelihoods of the people and impacts housing, employment, and investment prospects.

·   Latest Developments and Trends

Recently, the UK real estate market has witnessed many notable developments and trends. This includes a growing positive emphasis on sustainable housing solutions. Moreover, increased digitization in property transactions and changing preferences have led to evolving lifestyle patterns. 

Furthermore, the market has been formed by government rules aimed at addressing affordable living and development. The trends altogether underscore the diverse nature of the UK real estate scene; they reflect the adaptability required to navigate the dynamic market conditions.

·   Economic Conditions and Impact of Real Estate

Here, we are going to discuss how the economic health of the UK impacts the real estate market.

The UK real estate market’s performance is tied to the country’s economic well-being. Economic indicators, like GDP growth, serve as vital markers for the overall health of the market. During the phase of economic expansion, higher consumer confidence often reflects higher property demands. Equally, economic downturns lead to lower confidence and lower real estate market activity.

If we examine the economic factors, it sheds light on the effects they have on the real estate market. Overall, GDP growth affects market confidence, whereas the employment rate influences the buying power of property. For instance, when the price rises, inflation affects borrowing costs and affordability, which changes the real estate marketplace.

·   Interest Rate-Real Estate Market Analysis

Do you know what deeply prejudices the trends in UK real estate? Interest rate fluctuations. These affect mortgage rates and how affordable property is. Low-interest rates reduce borrowing costs and enhance real estate demand. Conversely, high-interest rates reduce demand by making borrowing costs pricier. The changes in interest rates highly affect home affordability and loan rates. 

On the other hand, rising interest rates will raise loan costs, which will drive buyers out of the real estate market. In this way, it creates a limit for real estate activity. The rise in property costs is linked to market adjustments and property value changes due to budget concerns. Rate rises have been linked to market conditions and property value changes due to affordability concerns.

·   Housing Supply and Demand

Assess the supply and demand balance among the buyers and residences. A balance in supply and demand maintains constant property costs, whereas excess and shortage can lower or raise the costs. Buyer competition is the main reason behind the housing shortage and the rise in oversupplying of property. When an oversupply of property occurs, suppliers have to reduce prices. Hence, understanding such influences assists in predicting market trends and making educated real estate choices. 

However, population increases can cause a shortage of houses, which affects property values too. Noticing regional changes assists real estate investors in reacting to local market authenticity.

·   Government Policies and Regulatory Impact

Analysing government policies entails monitoring how government choices can influence the real estate market. For instance, land use, zoning, and certain policies affect real estate dynamics. Moreover, government policies such as property taxes highly affect real estate dealings. Also, the rule changes in the building and usage of land affect investment opportunities and property rates.

·   Interest Rates, Currency Rates, and International Trade Patterns

Analysing interest rates, currency rates, and global trade patterns assist in clarifying how economic forces cause changes in the UK real estate market. Economic downturns affect real estate, the financial crisis caused a huge loss in demand for property. By recognising the interconnection between domestic and global markets, you can make smart decisions.

·   Political Stability and Market Confidence:

Most property investors will look at the real estate market alongside the country’s political stability. The investor trusts a stable political situation to make long-term investments. Major anxiety occurs in the country when political events occur, like government changes, elections, and international conflicts. Conversely, the policy changes have a massive impact on taxation, laws, and the economic route, distressing real estate values and patterns.

·   Market mood and public Perception:

Another crucial factor that increases property demand includes market mood and public perception. For instance, if the media is covering negative occasions and attitudes, it diminishes property prices and activity, while positive coverage enhances demand. Likewise, a strong impact occurs on property sales due to economic projections. 

The urban development’s impact on the property affects real estate to a great extent. Adding recreational spaces can increase the demand and value of an area. Also, those areas where infrastructure upgrading happens affect real estate to boost demand and raise property prices.

Wrap Up!

After considering the variables that affect the UK’s real estate market volatility, several prominent aspects arise. A sensitive balance between the supply and demand of housing, economic forces, government policies, the condition of the market, and political stability exists. It is by appreciating and understanding these factors that make navigating the real estate market smoother. 

A knowledgeable strategy will assist in making smarter choices in real estate as the landscape alters. Investors need to stay informed and have a complete market view as changes arise in the market. Staying aware of the economic trends, legislative changes, and worldwide events that can affect real estate is also vital. Appreciating these factors helps buyers, investors, sellers, and industry specialists make well-informed decisions. Check out our Financial Modelling Courses and connect with Cambridge Finance’s experts, who will advise the best!