What is an Unlisted Property Fund
An unlisted property fund is an alternative way to start, or diversify, when investing in property. Over the last 30 years, Australian property has grown in value substantially, creating a healthy return for many investors. So we can see why Australians see property as a good way of achieving their financial goals. It also has a relatively low volatility, when compared with other asset classes, which is a strong attraction to potential investors.
So let’s take a look at what exactly an unlisted property fund is and what the benefits are of investing in one.
What is an unlisted property fund?
Investing in commercial property, including industrial, office, retail or social infrastructure can be done via an unlisted property fund.
An unlisted property fund is not listed on a public market, such as the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX). These funds can be an attractive investment for people seeking regular income with the potential for capital growth.
They provide an investment opportunity which is similar to buying a commercial property directly, but with the additional benefit of professional management.
How does an unlisted property fund work?
There are two types of unlisted property funds, open-ended and fixed term. Both are professionally managed funds that achieve diversification through an investment in a collection of financial assets, rather than one single investment.
Open-ended property funds
An open ended fund does not have a termination date and does not have a limited number of available units. Extra capital can be raised to purchase additional properties throughout its duration.
Open-ended property funds usually have multiple assets to increase diversification. The fund manager will decide when the fund buys and sells assets. The is no fixed end date, so when an investor wants to exit, they are paid out from the trust or with capital from new investors.
Fixed term, closed-end property funds
A fixed term property fund is held for a predetermined time period and the fund manager sets a number of units for investors at the start, who stay with the fund for the duration of the investment.
Fixed term funds acquire direct purchases of commercial property. So there is transparency with investors as to which specific properties are part of the fund.
Benefits of investing in an unlisted property fund
Pooled funds
Providing access to assets that individuals may not have access to otherwise.
Income
Consistent and reliable income paid in monthly or six monthly payments.
Stability
Property portfolios with a long weighted average lease.
Diversity
A portfolio of assets of different sizes and purchase prices, chosen to represent the best market value at the time.
Professional management
Debt, due diligence and property and tenant management.
What are the risks?
As with all investments, the benefits are going to be offset by some risks. These include:
Lack of transparency
Investors cannot see the price of the investment or the fluctuation of the assets.
No supervision
Funds are not subject to ongoing supervision by public market managers such as the ASX.
Relatively illiquid
It may be harder to withdraw capital from and subject to more strict exit conditions than a sharemarket listed asset.
Who regulates unlisted property funds?
Unlisted property funds are regulated by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC). ASIC is Australia’s corporate, markets and financial services regulator.
Why invest in an unlisted property fund?
At Mountain Asset Management, we offer unlisted property funds that provide investors with a reliable monthly income. Our funds provide an opportunity to include commercial property into your investment portfolio.
Our funds make commercial property access with lower capital possible for investors, allowing you direct access to investment returns from a diverse portfolio of quality commercial properties.