Sumi Rengaraj, Co-Founder of Ashton Gray

9 Jan 2024 , 10:04 AM

 

Please share the core mission that propels Ashton Gray in the dynamic landscape of real estate development and investment.

Our primary objective at Ashton Gray is to provide our investors with an avenue to great real estate investment opportunities in the United States. Our goal is to provide returns that are higher than market averages and go beyond the typical investing paths that are available. We truly think that it is beneficial for all Indian investors to include assets backed by the thriving U.S. real estate market in order to diversify their investable net worth.

We aim to achieve more than just financial success. Enabling investors to participate in a stable and possibly lucrative industry that may not always be easily accessible from India, it’s about providing access to opportunities that go beyond the traditional. By offering this option, we hope to enable our investors to take advantage of the stability and growth potential that come with investing in the US real estate market, thereby expanding their investment horizons and possibly earning large returns.

What have been the key learnings in Ashton Gray’s journey so far?

At Ashton Gray, we’ve learned a few important lessons along the way that have greatly influenced how we operate: First of all, we acknowledge the distinctive personality of every investor. They have different tastes, risk tolerances, and financial objectives, but they are all driven by the same objective: safe investments with higher returns. Our investment offerings have been based on our understanding of and commitment to meeting this common need. We work hard to select opportunities that balance the various goals of our investors with a focus on security and outstanding returns.

The importance of consistency and trust in our interactions with investors has proven to be one of the most fulfilling discoveries. In our encounters, establishing trust is crucial. An investor’s propensity to invest in further projects with Ashton Gray is frequently evident after they make the decision to do so and see the results. This devotion emphasizes their trust and confidence in our strategy, which highlights the significance of keeping our word and continuously delivering value and returns. We have learned from this trip how important it is to customize investing solutions to meet the demands of each individual while maintaining the values of integrity, openness, and reliability. With this knowledge in mind, we keep improving and changing what we have to offer in an effort to surpass clients’ expectations and create long-lasting bonds with them.

Are there specific strategies or considerations that you recommend for Indian investors looking to explore opportunities in the US real estate market?

We advise Indian investors to think about the following important tactics and factors before entering the US real estate market in order to maximize their returns:

1. Prioritize returns that beat inflation: It’s critical to focus on assets that produce returns that beat inflation while also protecting capital. With this approach, you can be confident that your investments will always have a high purchase power. Seek possibilities that provide a margin above the rate of inflation to protect the long-term value of your investment.
2. Accept diversification: One of the main tenets of wise investing strategies is diversification. Think about investing a chunk of your money in US real estate. Investing in a variety of real estate projects or assets can help spread the risk of market volatility and expose investors to a range of real estate market niches. This can include investing in various real estate investment vehicles, diversifying geographically, or owning both residential and business buildings.
3. Look past instant returns: Although returns are a crucial consideration, it’s also necessary to assess the project’s viability and the reputation of the investing entity or corporation. Consider more than just the possible profits. Evaluate the project’s and company’s credibility, history, and performance history. The potential success and risk reduction of an investment may frequently be inferred from a strong track record and the standing of the organization overseeing it.

Through adherence to these techniques, diversification, looking for returns that beat inflation, and concentrating on the project and company history, Indian investors can better position themselves in the US real estate market. This strategy seeks to guarantee a more diverse and knowledgeable investment portfolio while simultaneously minimizing risks and optimizing rewards.

What role does real estate play in providing stability and balance to an investment portfolio, particularly in the context of global investments?

The real estate market in the United States is expected to increase at an estimated annual pace of 2.8%, with a valuation of over USD 3.43 trillion in 2023. The size of this considerable market and its projected growth attract investors.

The US real estate market is a ray of stability in an unpredictable economy. One of its distinguishing qualities has been its extraordinary fortitude amid trying times. In spite of economic ups and downs, this market has shown steady development and stability. The remarkable doubling in US home values over the last ten years, after a market bottom and a period of slow construction, is a startling illustration. This steady upward trend underlines the market’s perseverance in the face of difficulties as well as its strength. This history of steady expansion highlights the market’s resilience to harsh economic times and keeps it moving higher for investors looking for long-term stability.

The resilience of the US real estate market to global economic fluctuations is one of its most notable attributes. This market has traditionally shown itself to be resilient throughout global economic downturns, frequently outperforming and weathering bad times better than many other industries. An investment portfolio can be greatly strengthened by participating in a market with this degree of resilience, which acts as a safety net against any downturns and uncertainty in the world economy. The strategic diversification in the US real estate market is a determined action to take advantage of the market’s strength rather than just a way to reduce risk. The United States Dollar (USD), also referred to as the ‘king of currencies,’ is what makes the US real estate market such a compelling option for investors. Purchasing real estate in the United States not only provides a significant opportunity to lower total risk exposure but also presents the possibility of higher returns. Through careful positioning, investors line their investments with this strong market in order to take advantage of the USD’s growth potential, stability, and unquestionable strength. When all is considered, the U.S. real estate market is a dependable and enticing option for investors who want to strengthen and diversify their investment portfolios. For investors looking for security and promise in their investments, its significant size, resilience, steady growth, and pivotal position within the global economy, all supported by the strength of the USD, make it a desirable option.

Comparing Indian and US real estate markets, what factors make one a potentially better investment over the other?

1. Stability of US real estate: Compared to its Indian counterpart, the US real estate market is notably more stable. The US market has a long history of stability, frequently enduring market turbulence and economic uncertainty. Its resilience to setbacks and capacity to grow steadily over time serve as examples of its resilience and consistency. In comparison to the somewhat more volatile Indian market, this stability is further reinforced by clear and open market mechanisms, a regulated sector, and a developed market ecosystem that inspires investor trust.
2. Security and regulations: Two important elements drawing investors to the US real estate market are security and the regulatory environment. The market functions under a clearly defined legal framework that provides robust investor protections, as well as an open system that guarantees the execution of contracts and property rights. Investors feel more secure thanks to these rules, which also lessen the risk of dishonest business practices and unclear legal requirements, which are common in developing nations like India. Investment security in the US real estate market is largely attributed to the strong legal framework and strict observance of property rules.
3. Prospective returns: For a variety of reasons, the US real estate market frequently offers greater prospective returns than the Indian market. Although previous performance does not guarantee future results, historically, property values in the US market have consistently increased, providing investors with favorable returns. Furthermore, rental returns can be attractive in some US real estate market segments, offering a reliable source of income. Furthermore, the resilience and stability of the US market tend to draw a wider spectrum of investors, which increases competition and may raise property values, providing investors with favorable returns.

On the other hand, although the Indian real estate industry has the potential for greater growth at times, it is also frequently associated with increased volatility, regulatory uncertainty, and difficulties with legal frameworks and transparency. Compared to the comparatively more stable, regulated, and potentially profitable environment provided by the US real estate industry, this can provide greater dangers to investors.

Looking ahead, what is your long-term vision for Ashton Gray?

Our goal at Ashton Gray is to become the leading provider of real estate investment options, especially for those looking to take advantage of the enormous potential of the US market. Our goal is to become the first choice for everyone looking for ways to invest in the real estate market in the United States.

Building a foundation of dependability and trust is essential to our goal. Our aim is to establish enduring partnerships with our investors by being a reliable source of information, honesty, and a common drive for achievement. This means that in addition to providing investment possibilities, we also need to be a trustworthy advisor who is aware of the various financial goals and desires of our clients. Our commitment goes beyond simple transactions; it includes providing outstanding customer service. By offering individualized attention, knowledgeable advice, and a variety of investment options that precisely match each investor’s particular goals and desires, we aim to go above and beyond expectations. We make an effort to provide specialized investment solutions that address these financial goals, whether they are focused on portfolio diversity, regular income streams, or capital growth.

In the end, our mission is based on the conviction that we can enable investors to reach their financial objectives in the ever-changing U.S. real estate market by being a reliable partner, providing outstanding service, and providing investment solutions catered to individual needs.