What does ‘leverage’ refer to in real estate investing?

In real estate investing, ‘leverage’ specifically refers to the practice of using borrowed capital to increase the potential return on investment. By taking out a mortgage or loan, an investor can purchase a property without having to pay the full price upfront. This means they can invest in larger or additional properties than they could afford with their own capital alone. The goal of leveraging is to amplify returns; if the property appreciates in value, the investor benefits from a larger profit relative to their initial investment since they are only paying interest on the borrowed funds, and any appreciation is on the total property value. This strategy can significantly enhance profitability, making it a fundamental concept in real estate investing.