Why Consider ASX Real Estate Stocks?
Investors often turn to real estate stocks as a method of achieving a more diversified portfolio. Yes, this is true in respect of all sectors, but particularly in respect of real estate, because real estate is an asset class in and of itself. And real estate has a reputation as being a long-term stable investment. Land, theoretically, never goes down.
At the same time, it isn't as easy to invest in as equities, especially for retail investors. But the ASX offers the change for such investors to invest in property as easy as any other stock in any other sector. And not only do many companies pay dividends, but many companies (i.e. REITs) exist predominantly to pay dividends to their investors and pay out almost all profit made.
This section aims to shed light on the potential benefits real estate stocks can provide.
Many property companies, particularly REITs, provide consistent dividend payouts, which can be an attractive proposition for income-focused investors. Companies like Scentre Group, Mirvac Group, and Goodman Group have a track record of regular dividends, and paying out a high proportion of their profits, providing a steady income stream.
The property market in Australia has experienced significant growth over the years. Investing in real estate stocks gives investors the opportunity to benefit from this growth as these companies' property portfolios increase in value, and to do through the stock exchange rather than buying a physical property of their own.
Real estate is often considered a good hedge against inflation. As prices rise, so too does the value of real estate, and prices and by extension, the value of real estate stocks. And land, theoretically, never goes down. This can provide some protection for investors during times of high inflation.
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Key Metrics to Consider When Investing in Real Estate Stocks
Before diving into the Australian market of real estate stocks, it's essential to understand some key metrics that can help in making informed decisions.
Funds From Operations (FFO) is the measure of cash generated by a property stock, particularly a REIT. Stocks generally pay out dividends as a % of FFO. This is a distinct measure from a company's profit.
Dividend yield indicates the annual dividend payment as a percentage of the stock's current market price. It can help assess the income-generating potential of real estate stocks.
Real estate companies often carry significant debt due to the nature of the industry. A lower Debt to Equity ratio is preferable as it indicates that ownership of the company is not overly reliant on debt.
For REITs, the NTA (Net Tangible Assets) per share is a critical measure. It is calculated as the total fair market value of the REIT's real estate assets, less any outstanding debt, divided by the number of outstanding shares.
3 Best ASX Real Estate Stocks to Buy Now in 2024
Vicinity Centres (ASX: VCX)
Vicinity Centres is a shopping centre landlord, operating shopping centres and leasing them to tenants. It has over 59 shopping centres under management, consisting of ~7,000 individual retailers. Vicinity’s $14bn portfolio includes several flagship stores, including Chadstone shopping centre in Melbourne, Queens Plaza in Brisbane and Chatswood Chase in Sydney and corporate offices at certain sites.
Mirvac Group (ASX: MGR)
Mirvac Group, a company renowned for property development and real estate management in Australia. With a market cap of approximately $9 billion, Mirvac plays a crucial role in the residential real estate and office space markets. The company's recent focus on sustainable property development and so-called Build to Rent (BTR) apartments has put it in the spotlight.
Goodman Group (ASX: GMG)
Goodman Group, a company with a market cap over $60 billion, owns and has property and specializes in industrial real estate. Goodman's portfolio has historically composed of logistics and warehouse facilities. It is gradually pivoting towards data centres and other technology-related real estate.
3 Best ASX Real Estate Stocks to Buy Now in 2024
Vicinity Centres (ASX: VCX)
Vicinity Centres is a shopping centre landlord, operating shopping centres and leasing them to tenants. It has over 59 shopping centres under management, consisting of ~7,000 individual retailers. Vicinity's $14bn portfolio includes several flagship stores, including Chadstone shopping centre in Melbourne, Queens Plaza in Brisbane and Chatswood Chase in Sydney and corporate offices at certain sites.
Vicinity made a $547.1m profit in FY24, nearly double FY23, and it paid out 11.75cps, representing a 5% yield.
Mirvac Group (ASX: MGR)
Mirvac Group, a company renowned for property development and real estate management in Australia. With a market cap of approximately $8 billion, Mirvac plays a crucial role in the residential real estate and office space markets. Its recent focus on sustainable property development and the so-called Built to Rent (BTR) sector has put it in the spotlight.
The company generated $860m EBIT (up 12%) and a $552m operating profit, although it lost $805m on a statutory basis due to a negative revaluation of its office properties. It has $22bn in Assets Under Management and a $29bn development pipeline.
Goodman Group (ASX: GMG)
Goodman Group, a company with a market cap over $60 billion, owns and has property and specialises in industrial real estate. Goodman's portfolio has historically composed of logistics and warehouse facilities. It is gradually pivoting towards data centres and other technology-related real estate.
In FY24, the company made a $2bn operating profit (up 15%) and is estimating $1.172 earnings per share, up a further 9%.
FAQs on Investing in Real Estate Stocks
One effective way to get a more diversified portfolio of ASX real estate stocks is through ETFs such as the VanEck Australian Property ETF (ASX: MVA).
ETFs provide exposure to a basket of stocks and industries, helping to mitigate the risk associated with investing in individual companies.
Our Analysis on ASX Real Estate Stocks
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