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nvesting in real estate can be a lucrative path for any investor, but for Gen Zers entering the workforce, it could be more than just a way to make money - it's a way to lay a solid foundation for retirement. While they may not be ready to purchase their first properties yet, there are various ways they can get started.

    Experts explain why real estate investing could be Gen Z's ticket to retirement and how to get started. Earning passive income doesn't have to be difficult; you can start this week. Traditional investments like pensions or lifelong careers with one company may seem outdated for Gen Z, according to Jim Sandford, founder of Freedom Properties Direct.

    Real estate is a tangible asset that offers several avenues for income and long-term growth, unlike the stock market. These avenues include appreciation, cash flow, tax benefits, leverage, and control. Appreciation allows real estate values to increase over time, while cash flow provides a steady stream of income from rental properties. Tax benefits include deductions on mortgage interest and property taxes, and depreciation can help reduce taxable income.

    To get started in real estate investing, Sandford suggests improving your credit score, saving for a down payment, considering house hacking, engaging in short-term rentals, or investing in Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs). Educate yourself through networking, research, and working with a mentor to learn about local trends and demands.

    Real estate investing is not a get-rich-quick scheme; it's a long-term strategy that requires patience and diligence. By building a diversified portfolio of properties over time, reinvesting rental income, and paying down mortgage debt, real estate investors can create substantial wealth, offering financial stability for early retirement and life's unexpected turns.

    You don't need immense wealth to get started in real estate investing. A good credit score opens the door to better mortgage terms, while saving for a down payment reduces risks and makes you a more attractive candidate for loans. Consider house hacking by purchasing a multi-unit property and renting out the others to generate rental income while offsetting your own housing costs.

    Short-term rentals through platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo can also provide lucrative investment opportunities, but be sure to know the laws before investing. Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) allow you to pool money with other investors to buy shares in income-generating real estate, similar to buying stocks.