PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION 2020: HOW WILL IT IMPACT REAL ESTATE?

There’s no doubt that 2020 has been an interesting year. As we cruise into the final months, the presidential election 2020 is likely to shake things up even more.

With election day rapidly approaching, many investors are currently asking themselves, “How will the presidential election 2020 impact real estate?”

This is a tough question to answer with many moving parts. In this article, we will look at some of the main factors influencing real estate in this upcoming 2020 election.

Leading up to the presidential election 2020, both President Donald Trump and contender Joe Biden have made their positions on real estate clear. Through his policies, Trump has set a precedent for what will come should he be reelected. Biden has also made some proposals that are sure to affect the real estate industry.

Let’s take a look at how each candidate of the presidential election 2020 hopes to shape real estate in the United States.

Presidential Election 2020: Joe Biden

Biden has proposed a few different policies that real estate investors should be aware of for the presidential election 2020. Several of these proposals could act in favor of new investors looking to get into real estate, as well as investors who purchase Class C or Class D homes. Others may directly affect rent collection and income.

Assistance for Renters and Homeowners

Among Joe Biden’s ideas is the hope to support first-time homebuyers by initiating up to $15,000 in tax credit. Likewise, he is pushing for down payment assistance for service workers. In an attempt to ease the financial burden the coronavirus pandemic has placed on low-income citizens, Biden would also supply tax credits for renters, as well as increase Section 8 vouchers.

Depending on an investor’s position, some of these policies could increase access to property ownership. The proposed tax deductions COVID-19 could bring, along with down payment assistance, might be the boost some aspiring investor’s need. However, increasing the affordability of homeownership on a large scale could backfire for real estate investors attempting to keep their rental units full. Though, with Section 8 vouchers, occupancy rates for low-income rental units could increase.

Rent and Mortgage Forgiveness

Another concept Biden has supported is the notion of rent and mortgage forgiveness. Should it come to pass after the presidential election 2020, real estate investors could potentially struggle. While mortgage payments would also be forgiven, they are only one expense real estate investors face. Collecting rent ensures the coverage of utilities, property maintenance, and real estate taxes. In some cases, property managers’ and maintenance workers’ salaries are paid with rent. Not to mention, many investors rely on rent as their sole source of income.

Increased Tax Rates for Investors

Finally, another proposal for real estate investors is Biden’s wish to eradicate the 1031 tax loophole. This portion of tax law allows investors to offset their real estate taxes by claiming losses due to property depreciation. This loophole is often used even when investors are experiencing real estate appreciation.

Presidential Election 2020: President Donald Trump

If Trump is reelected in the presidential election 2020, we can predict more of the same policies he has enforced over the last few years, possibly with some new developments.

Real Estate Growth and Construction

The theme of Trump’s presidency in regards to real estate is a push towards growth and stimulating the economy. Trump has been reluctant to lift strict zoning laws on single-family residences. This is an effort to retain the value of homes and communities. Some of his policies during this term include the creation of “opportunity zones,” designed to support real estate growth in underdeveloped communities.

A Mixed Take on Tax Rates

Trump used his presidency to limit the allowable deduction for mortgage interest. He decreased write-offs from 1 million to $750,000- a sigh of relief for lower and middle-class homeowners who saw a decrease in taxes, though upper-middle-class Americans saw an increase in taxes. Depending on where an investor falls within this range, this policy could be either an advantage or a burden.

Good-Bye Fannie and Freddie

An initiative Trump would like to see pass is Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac transitioning from federal to private. This is a proposition with uncertain consequences and critics worry that this move could have a negative effect on home buyers’ ability to secure 30-year, fixed-rate mortgages. However, the exact repercussions of such a move would remain to be seen.

Elections and the General US Real Estate Market 2021 Forecast

Real estate market trends tell us that election years lead to a drop in home sales from October to November by 15%, according to findings by BTIG. In non-election years, typically home sales only drop by 10% for these months. Buyer uncertainty is almost a given during any election, and in the near future, we will certainly see a slow down in home purchases.

In the short run, we may see difficulty for those selling an investment property and, conversely, decreased competition for those buying an investment property. However, these trends will likely not continue into 2021.