Transferring possession of actual property to a restricted legal responsibility firm (LLC) includes a authorized strategy of conveying the deed from a person or one other entity to the LLC. This usually requires making ready and submitting particular paperwork with the suitable county or native recording workplace, typically together with a brand new deed with the LLC designated because the grantee. For instance, a house owner may switch the deed of their residence to an LLC established for asset safety.
Putting actual property inside an LLC construction can provide vital benefits, primarily by shielding private belongings from liabilities related to the property. This separation limits potential monetary dangers and lawsuits to the belongings held inside the LLC. Traditionally, LLCs have turn into a well-liked software for actual property possession as a result of this legal responsibility safety, providing a stability between the simplicity of a sole proprietorship and the protections afforded by an organization.
A number of key steps are concerned within the switch course of, together with selecting the suitable LLC construction, correctly making ready the deed, understanding potential tax implications, and guaranteeing compliance with all authorized and regulatory necessities. These concerns shall be explored intimately.
1. Type an LLC
Establishing an LLC is a foundational step earlier than property could be legally held by the entity. This preliminary course of creates the authorized framework vital for the LLC to personal belongings, together with actual property. With out a correctly shaped LLC, transferring possession of the property to the supposed entity is inconceivable. Contemplate a state of affairs the place a person makes an attempt to deed property to an LLC that has not but been registered with the state; the switch could be invalid. The formation course of includes submitting articles of group with the designated state company, outlining key details about the LLC, equivalent to its title, registered agent, and function. This establishes the LLC’s authorized existence and permits it to operate as a separate authorized entity, distinct from its house owners.
The importance of forming an LLC previous to property switch lies primarily in legal responsibility safety. As soon as the LLC is established, it turns into the authorized proprietor of the property, separating private belongings of the LLC’s members from potential liabilities related to the property. For example, if the property incurs a debt or faces a lawsuit, the LLC’s belongings are in danger, however the private belongings of the LLC members are usually protected. This separation is a vital aspect of asset safety methods. Moreover, a correctly shaped LLC supplies a structured framework for managing the property, together with defining possession percentages, tasks, and working procedures. This clarifies possession and operational facets, lowering potential disputes amongst members.
In conclusion, forming an LLC shouldn’t be merely a procedural prerequisite however an important step that establishes the mandatory authorized framework for the LLC to carry property and shields private belongings from potential liabilities. This course of is key to reaching the specified authorized and monetary advantages of putting property inside an LLC. Neglecting this important step can result in invalid transfers, exposing private belongings to pointless threat. This cautious planning and execution are vital for efficient asset safety and long-term monetary safety.
2. Select a Registered Agent
Deciding on a registered agent is a vital element of transferring property possession to an LLC. A registered agent serves because the official level of contact for the LLC, receiving authorized paperwork and official correspondence on behalf of the entity. This operate is crucial for sustaining authorized compliance and guaranteeing the LLC stays in good standing with the state. When property is held inside an LLC, authorized notices in regards to the property, equivalent to lawsuits, tax assessments, or code violations, are served to the registered agent. Failure to designate a registered agent, or sustaining an unresponsive agent, can result in missed deadlines, default judgments, and potential penalties, jeopardizing the LLC’s authorized standing and probably exposing the property to threat. For example, if a lawsuit is filed towards the LLC relating to the property and the registered agent fails to inform the LLC, the LLC may miss the chance to reply, resulting in a default judgment towards the LLC.
The registered agent’s position is especially vital in property possession because of the inherent authorized complexities related to actual property. Property possession typically includes interactions with authorities businesses, regulatory our bodies, and probably authorized disputes. A dependable registered agent ensures immediate receipt and notification of essential authorized paperwork, enabling the LLC to reply appropriately and defend its pursuits. Contemplate a state of affairs the place a property owned by an LLC faces a zoning violation. The registered agent receives the discover and promptly informs the LLC, permitting the LLC to handle the violation, probably avoiding fines or different penalties. This well timed communication, facilitated by the registered agent, safeguards the LLC and the property from potential authorized and monetary repercussions. Moreover, some states mandate that the registered agent have a bodily tackle inside the state the place the LLC is registered. This requirement necessitates cautious consideration when selecting a registered agent, particularly for LLCs working throughout state strains.
In abstract, designating a registered agent shouldn’t be merely a formality however a vital step in sustaining the authorized integrity of the LLC and safeguarding the property held inside it. A dependable and responsive registered agent ensures the LLC receives all authorized communications, permitting for well timed responses and mitigating potential authorized and monetary dangers. This diligent method to registered agent choice underscores the dedication to authorized compliance and accountable property possession inside the LLC construction.
3. Receive an EIN
Acquiring an Employer Identification Quantity (EIN) is a vital step within the strategy of putting property inside an LLC, notably if the LLC has a number of members or intends to function as a enterprise entity separate from its house owners. The EIN, issued by the Inner Income Service (IRS), capabilities as a novel identifier for the LLC, analogous to a Social Safety quantity for people. This quantity is crucial for numerous monetary and administrative capabilities associated to the property held inside the LLC, together with tax reporting, opening financial institution accounts, and conducting enterprise transactions. With out an EIN, the LLC could encounter vital obstacles in managing the property successfully and fulfilling its authorized and monetary obligations.
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Tax Reporting and Compliance
The EIN is key for fulfilling tax obligations related to the property held inside the LLC. The IRS requires LLCs to make use of their EIN when submitting annual tax returns and reporting earnings and bills associated to the property. For instance, rental earnings generated from a property held inside an LLC have to be reported utilizing the LLC’s EIN. This ensures correct monitoring of monetary exercise and facilitates correct tax evaluation. Failure to acquire an EIN can result in penalties and problems with tax authorities, probably jeopardizing the LLC’s standing and impacting the property’s monetary administration.
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Monetary Transactions and Banking
Opening a checking account within the LLC’s title requires an EIN. This separate checking account facilitates clear separation of the LLC’s funds from the private funds of its members, an important side of sustaining the legal responsibility safety afforded by the LLC construction. Conducting property-related transactions, equivalent to paying property taxes or gathering hire, by way of the LLC’s checking account additional reinforces this separation and simplifies monetary record-keeping. With out an EIN, establishing a devoted checking account for the LLC turns into problematic, hindering monetary administration and probably blurring the strains between private and enterprise funds.
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Multi-Member LLC Operations
For LLCs with a number of members, an EIN is mostly required, even when the LLC shouldn’t be engaged in energetic enterprise operations. The EIN permits the IRS to trace the allocation of earnings and bills among the many members, guaranteeing correct tax reporting for every particular person. That is notably related for properties producing rental earnings, the place the EIN facilitates correct distribution of income and losses among the many LLC members. This structured method simplifies tax compliance and reduces the danger of discrepancies or disputes amongst members.
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Establishing Enterprise Credibility
An EIN lends credibility to the LLC, presenting it as a official and separate authorized entity. This may be useful when interacting with monetary establishments, contractors, or different companies associated to the property. The EIN demonstrates that the LLC is working inside established authorized and monetary frameworks, enhancing belief and facilitating smoother enterprise transactions. This skilled picture contributes to the LLC’s repute and fosters confidence in its operations, benefiting the administration and possession of the property.
In conclusion, acquiring an EIN shouldn’t be merely a procedural formality however an integral element of successfully managing property held inside an LLC. The EIN facilitates correct tax reporting, allows separate banking operations, helps multi-member LLC buildings, and enhances the LLC’s enterprise credibility. These mixed advantages contribute considerably to the graceful operation and authorized compliance of the LLC, defending the property and the pursuits of its house owners.
4. Title the Property
Accurately titling the property within the title of the LLC is a basic step within the strategy of transferring possession. This motion legally establishes the LLC because the rightful proprietor of the true property. With out correct titling, the supposed legal responsibility safety and possession construction supplied by the LLC may be compromised. This course of ensures readability and authorized validity of possession, stopping potential disputes and problems sooner or later. Primarily, titling the property appropriately finalizes the switch and solidifies the LLC’s possession rights.
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Deed Preparation and Execution
The deed, a authorized doc that transfers possession, should precisely determine the LLC because the grantee. This requires exact naming, matching the LLC’s authorized title as registered with the state. Any discrepancies or errors within the LLC’s title on the deed can create authorized challenges and probably invalidate the switch. For example, omitting a suffix like “LLC” or utilizing a barely completely different title might result in title points down the road. A correctly executed deed, signed by the present proprietor (grantor) and witnessed in line with state rules, is essential for a legally sound switch.
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Recording the Deed
After the deed is signed and notarized, it have to be recorded with the suitable county or native recording workplace. This public recordation formally paperwork the change in possession and supplies authorized discover to 3rd events. Recording the deed safeguards the LLC’s possession rights and protects towards potential fraudulent claims. Failure to document the deed can jeopardize the LLC’s possession and create problems if disputes come up. This step establishes the LLC’s possession within the public document, offering authorized certainty and safety.
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Title Insurance coverage
Acquiring title insurance coverage is really useful after transferring property to an LLC. Title insurance coverage protects the LLC towards defects or encumbrances within the title which may not be obvious through the switch course of. These points, equivalent to unpaid liens or prior possession disputes, can considerably affect the LLC’s possession rights. Title insurance coverage supplies monetary safety and authorized help if such points come up. This safeguard ensures the LLC’s possession is evident and uncontested.
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Possession Construction Alignment
The titling course of ought to mirror the supposed possession construction inside the LLC. If the LLC has a number of members, the deed ought to clearly state how possession is split. This readability prevents future disagreements or misunderstandings amongst members relating to possession percentages and rights. For instance, the deed may specify tenants in frequent or joint tenancy with proper of survivorship, relying on the working settlement. Correct titling ensures the possession construction aligns with the LLC’s working settlement and members’ intentions.
Correctly titling the property is an important step in transferring possession to an LLC. It ensures the authorized switch of possession, protects the LLC’s pursuits, and supplies readability relating to possession construction. Overlooking this important step can result in authorized problems, jeopardizing the advantages of holding the property inside an LLC. Correct and thorough execution of the titling course of is significant for establishing a safe and legally sound possession construction, contributing considerably to the long-term success of the LLC and its asset safety methods.
5. File the Deed
Submitting the deed is a vital step within the strategy of transferring property possession to an LLC. This motion legally formalizes the switch and establishes the LLC because the official proprietor of document. With out correct submitting, the switch lacks authorized recognition, probably exposing the property to disputes and jeopardizing the supposed legal responsibility safety of the LLC construction. This course of makes the switch public and legally binding, defending the LLC’s possession rights.
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Jurisdictional Necessities
Deed submitting necessities differ by jurisdiction. Sometimes, the deed have to be filed within the county or native recorder’s workplace the place the property is positioned. Adhering to particular native necessities, equivalent to formatting and documentation, ensures the submitting is accepted and legally legitimate. For instance, some jurisdictions could require particular varieties or documentary stamps. Failure to adjust to these necessities can delay or invalidate the submitting, hindering the switch course of and probably resulting in authorized problems.
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Public Document and Discover
Submitting the deed creates a public document of the possession switch. This public document supplies discover to 3rd events, together with collectors and potential claimants, of the LLC’s possession. This transparency helps forestall fraudulent claims and establishes clear possession within the public area. This public discover is crucial for safeguarding the LLC’s possession rights and guaranteeing authorized readability.
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Precedence of Possession
In some circumstances, a number of claims towards a property may come up. The submitting date of the deed typically establishes the precedence of possession. The sooner the deed is filed, the stronger the LLC’s declare towards subsequent claims. This “first in time, first in proper” precept underscores the significance of immediate and correct deed submitting. This well timed motion protects the LLC’s possession rights and strengthens its authorized standing.
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Proof of Possession
The filed deed serves as conclusive proof of the LLC’s possession of the property. This documented proof is crucial when coping with monetary establishments, insurance coverage firms, and authorities businesses. It supplies authorized certainty and facilitates numerous transactions associated to the property. This documented possession simplifies property administration and protects the LLC’s pursuits.
Within the context of transferring property to an LLC, submitting the deed represents a vital authorized and procedural step. It formalizes the switch, supplies public discover of possession, establishes possession precedence, and serves as proof of possession. This course of safeguards the LLC’s rights and solidifies the supposed legal responsibility safety afforded by the LLC construction. Correct and well timed submitting of the deed is crucial for securing the authorized and monetary advantages of holding property inside an LLC.
6. Replace Insurance coverage
Transferring property possession to an LLC necessitates updating insurance coverage protection to mirror the change in possession. Present insurance policies held underneath the earlier proprietor’s title will doubtless not present enough protection as soon as the property is owned by the LLC. Failure to replace insurance coverage can go away the property weak to vital monetary dangers within the occasion of injury, legal responsibility claims, or different unexpected circumstances. For instance, if a hearth damages a property not too long ago transferred to an LLC and the insurance coverage coverage stays within the earlier proprietor’s title, the declare may be denied, leaving the LLC to bear the complete value of repairs.
A number of key facets of insurance coverage require consideration through the switch course of. First, the policyholder have to be modified to the LLC’s title to make sure protection validity. Second, protection quantities ought to be reviewed and adjusted to mirror the present market worth of the property and potential legal responsibility dangers. Third, particular endorsements or riders may be required to handle distinctive facets of LLC possession, equivalent to legal responsibility protection for members and managers. Lastly, notifying the insurance coverage firm of the possession change is crucial to take care of steady protection and keep away from coverage cancellation. For example, a industrial property held inside an LLC may require particular legal responsibility protection for enterprise operations carried out on the premises, a element that must be addressed with the insurer through the coverage replace.
Updating insurance coverage after transferring property to an LLC shouldn’t be merely a procedural formality however a vital threat administration technique. It protects the property and the LLC from potential monetary losses, guaranteeing enough protection within the occasion of unexpected circumstances. This proactive method to insurance coverage administration demonstrates accountable possession and safeguards the LLC’s belongings. Neglecting this important step can expose the LLC to vital monetary vulnerability and jeopardize the long-term stability of the property funding. Subsequently, guaranteeing applicable and up to date insurance coverage protection is an integral element of successfully managing property held inside an LLC.
7. Working Settlement
An working settlement performs a significant position when putting property inside an LLC, outlining the possession construction, member tasks, and operational procedures. This legally binding doc governs the inner workings of the LLC and supplies a framework for managing the property. A well-drafted working settlement clarifies possession percentages, allocation of income and losses, member voting rights, and procedures for property administration, upkeep, and sale. With out a complete working settlement, disputes amongst LLC members relating to property-related selections can come up, probably resulting in authorized challenges and jeopardizing the LLC’s stability. For example, if a property generates rental earnings, the working settlement ought to specify how that earnings is distributed amongst members, stopping potential conflicts. The settlement additionally outlines procedures for making main selections relating to the property, equivalent to renovations or gross sales, guaranteeing all members have a transparent understanding of their rights and tasks.
The working settlement’s significance extends past inner governance. It serves as proof of the LLC’s construction and working procedures, which could be essential in authorized and monetary contexts. For instance, if the LLC faces a lawsuit associated to the property, the working settlement can display the separation between the LLC’s belongings and the private belongings of its members, reinforcing the legal responsibility safety afforded by the LLC construction. Moreover, monetary establishments typically require an working settlement when the LLC applies for loans or financing associated to the property. The settlement supplies assurance to lenders in regards to the LLC’s group and monetary administration practices. A transparent and complete working settlement can streamline interactions with banks and different monetary establishments, facilitating smoother transactions associated to the property. Equally, within the occasion of a member’s loss of life or withdrawal from the LLC, the working settlement outlines procedures for transferring possession pursuits, guaranteeing continuity and stability of the LLC and the property’s possession.
In conclusion, a meticulously crafted working settlement is indispensable when transferring property to an LLC. It establishes a framework for inner governance, clarifies possession and tasks, and serves as an important doc in authorized and monetary interactions. This proactive method to LLC administration mitigates potential disputes, reinforces legal responsibility safety, and ensures the graceful operation of the LLC in relation to the property it holds. Neglecting this vital element can expose the LLC to inner conflicts, authorized vulnerabilities, and monetary problems, probably undermining the advantages of holding property inside an LLC. A well-defined working settlement is due to this fact basic to the long-term success and stability of the LLC and the safety of its belongings.
8. Compliance Necessities
Adherence to authorized and regulatory compliance necessities is paramount when transferring property possession to an LLC. These necessities differ by jurisdiction and embody a number of key facets, together with state-specific LLC formation rules, property switch taxes, and ongoing reporting obligations. Ignoring these stipulations can result in penalties, authorized challenges, and potential invalidation of the possession switch. For example, failing to file an annual report with the state, a typical requirement for LLCs, may end up in administrative dissolution of the LLC, jeopardizing its possession of the property. Equally, neglecting to pay relevant switch taxes may end up in liens towards the property, complicating possession and probably resulting in monetary penalties. Understanding and fulfilling these obligations is key to sustaining the authorized integrity of the LLC and securing its possession of the property.
State rules typically dictate particular procedures for transferring property to an LLC. These may embrace particular documentation necessities, recording procedures, and disclosure obligations. Non-compliance can result in delays within the switch course of, rejection of filed paperwork, and potential authorized disputes. For instance, some states require a particular kind for use when transferring actual property to an LLC. Utilizing an incorrect kind might result in rejection by the recording workplace, delaying the switch and probably creating authorized uncertainties. Moreover, native jurisdictions may impose extra necessities, equivalent to zoning rules and property tax assessments particular to LLC possession. Navigating these multifaceted rules necessitates cautious analysis and meticulous adherence to make sure a easy and legally sound switch.
In conclusion, navigating the advanced panorama of compliance necessities is an integral a part of transferring property to an LLC. Meticulous consideration to state and native rules, together with LLC formation procedures, property switch taxes, and ongoing reporting obligations, is essential for a legally sound and profitable switch. Failure to conform can result in vital authorized and monetary repercussions, probably jeopardizing the LLC’s possession of the property and negating the supposed advantages of the LLC construction. Subsequently, thorough due diligence and proactive compliance are important for safeguarding the LLC’s pursuits and guaranteeing the long-term safety of the property funding.
9. Tax Issues
Transferring property possession to an LLC presents vital tax implications that warrant cautious consideration. The chosen LLC structuresole proprietorship, partnership, or corporationdirectly influences how the property’s earnings and bills are handled for tax functions. A sole proprietorship or partnership LLC usually leads to pass-through taxation, the place income and losses are reported on the person members’ tax returns. Conversely, a company LLC could face double taxation, with the LLC taxed on its income and members taxed once more on distributions. Selecting the suitable construction requires an evaluation of particular person monetary circumstances and long-term funding targets. For instance, a rental property held in a pass-through LLC would report rental earnings and deductible bills on the person house owners’ Schedule E, impacting their total tax legal responsibility. Conversely, a company LLC would file a separate company tax return, and any distributions to members could be taxed as dividends.
Past the preliminary structuring, ongoing tax concerns exist. Property taxes, usually levied on the native stage, proceed to use no matter LLC possession. Nonetheless, transferring possession could set off a reassessment, probably resulting in adjustments within the tax burden. Depreciation, a major tax benefit for funding properties, additionally requires cautious administration inside an LLC. The IRS dictates particular depreciation strategies and timelines, and correct adherence is essential for maximizing tax advantages. Moreover, promoting a property held inside an LLC may end up in capital positive aspects taxes, calculated primarily based on the distinction between the sale value and the property’s adjusted foundation. Understanding these potential tax penalties is essential for knowledgeable decision-making. For instance, promoting a property shortly after transferring it to an LLC may set off greater capital positive aspects taxes in comparison with holding the property for an extended interval.
In abstract, navigating the tax implications related to putting property inside an LLC requires a complete understanding of LLC buildings, property tax rules, depreciation guidelines, and capital positive aspects implications. Cautious planning and session with a tax skilled are essential for optimizing tax methods and guaranteeing compliance. Overlooking these concerns can result in unexpected tax liabilities and probably negate the monetary advantages of LLC possession. Subsequently, integrating tax planning into the property switch course of is crucial for maximizing monetary outcomes and reaching long-term funding targets.
Incessantly Requested Questions
This part addresses frequent inquiries relating to the switch of property possession to a restricted legal responsibility firm (LLC).
Query 1: What are the first benefits of holding property inside an LLC?
The first benefit is legal responsibility safety. Holding property inside an LLC separates private belongings from potential liabilities related to the property. This construction shields private belongings from lawsuits or money owed associated to the property.
Query 2: How does transferring property to an LLC have an effect on property taxes?
Transferring possession could set off a property tax reassessment, probably resulting in adjustments within the annual tax quantity. Nonetheless, the final property tax obligations stay, no matter possession construction.
Query 3: Is an working settlement required for an LLC that holds property?
Whereas not all the time legally mandated, an working settlement is extremely really useful. It outlines possession construction, member tasks, and working procedures, mitigating potential disputes and clarifying inner governance.
Query 4: What are the tax implications of promoting property held inside an LLC?
Promoting property held inside an LLC may end up in capital positive aspects taxes, calculated primarily based on the distinction between the sale value and the property’s adjusted foundation inside the LLC. The particular tax implications differ relying on the LLC’s tax construction.
Query 5: What are the potential penalties of neglecting compliance necessities after transferring property to an LLC?
Neglecting compliance necessities, equivalent to annual reporting or fee of switch taxes, can result in penalties, authorized challenges, and potential invalidation of the possession switch. Sustaining compliance is essential for preserving the LLC’s authorized standing and possession rights.
Query 6: How does one select the fitting kind of LLC for holding property?
Deciding on the suitable LLC structuresole proprietorship, partnership, or corporationdepends on particular person monetary circumstances and funding targets. Every construction has completely different tax implications and ranges of administrative complexity. Consulting with a authorized and tax skilled is advisable.
Understanding these key facets of transferring property to an LLC is crucial for a easy and legally sound course of. Thorough planning {and professional} steerage are really useful to navigate the complexities and optimize the advantages of LLC possession.
For additional data and personalised steerage, seek the advice of with authorized and tax professionals specializing in actual property and LLC formation.
Important Suggestions for Transferring Property to an LLC
Cautious planning and execution are essential for a profitable property switch. The next ideas present steerage for navigating this course of successfully.
Tip 1: Have interaction Authorized Counsel: Consulting with an actual property lawyer is paramount. Authorized professionals present tailor-made steerage particular to jurisdictional necessities, guaranteeing compliance and minimizing potential authorized dangers.
Tip 2: Conduct a Thorough Title Search: Earlier than transferring possession, a complete title search is crucial. This course of identifies potential liens, encumbrances, or different title defects that might complicate the switch or have an effect on possession rights.
Tip 3: Safe an Appraisal: Acquiring knowledgeable appraisal establishes the truthful market worth of the property. This data is essential for figuring out applicable insurance coverage protection and understanding potential tax implications.
Tip 4: Draft a Complete Working Settlement: A meticulously drafted working settlement is key for multi-member LLCs. This doc clarifies possession construction, member tasks, and working procedures, mitigating potential disputes and guaranteeing easy LLC operation.
Tip 5: Perceive Tax Implications: Transferring property to an LLC has vital tax penalties. Consulting with a tax advisor is essential for understanding potential tax liabilities, optimizing tax methods, and guaranteeing compliance.
Tip 6: Replace Insurance coverage Insurance policies: After the switch, insurance coverage insurance policies have to be up to date to mirror the LLC because the proprietor. Failure to take action can invalidate present protection and expose the property to vital monetary threat.
Tip 7: Preserve Meticulous Data: Sustaining detailed information of the switch course of, together with authorized paperwork, monetary transactions, and compliance filings, is crucial for demonstrating possession and facilitating future transactions.
Tip 8: Overview and Replace Frequently: Authorized and regulatory necessities can change. Periodically reviewing the LLC’s working settlement, insurance coverage insurance policies, and compliance standing ensures ongoing adherence and protects the property’s long-term safety.
Implementing these methods ensures a easy switch course of, protects the property, and maximizes the advantages of LLC possession.
By adhering to those tips, property house owners can navigate the complexities of LLC transfers successfully and set up a safe basis for his or her actual property investments.
Conclusion
Transferring property possession to a restricted legal responsibility firm (LLC) includes a multifaceted course of with vital authorized, monetary, and tax implications. From the preliminary formation of the LLC and number of a registered agent to the meticulous titling of the property, submitting of the deed, and ongoing compliance necessities, every step performs an important position in securing the supposed advantages. Understanding the nuances of working agreements, insurance coverage updates, and potential tax penalties is crucial for accountable and efficient property administration inside an LLC construction. This complete method safeguards belongings, mitigates dangers, and establishes a strong authorized framework for property possession.
Efficient property administration inside an LLC requires proactive planning, diligent execution, and ongoing consideration to authorized and regulatory compliance. In search of skilled steerage from authorized and tax specialists is essential for navigating the complexities of this course of and optimizing the long-term advantages of LLC possession. By approaching this course of with knowledgeable decision-making and meticulous consideration to element, property house owners can set up a safe and legally sound basis for his or her actual property investments.