What is the main purpose of leverage in real estate investments?

The main purpose of leverage in real estate investments is to utilize borrowed funds. Leverage allows investors to amplify their potential returns by using debt to finance a portion of the investment. By borrowing money, an investor can purchase a property that they may not have been able to afford outright with their own capital. This strategy is particularly effective in real estate because property values tend to appreciate over time, and the investor can gain equity in the property while only initially investing a smaller amount of their own money.

For instance, if an investor purchases a property worth $500,000 with a $100,000 down payment and finances the remaining $400,000, any increase in property value benefits the investor disproportionately compared to their original capital outlay. This effectively increases the return on investment, highlighting the power of leverage in maximizing potential gains in real estate transactions.