What is a real estate investment property risk assessment matrix and how can I create one?

@mikel 

A real estate investment property risk assessment matrix is a tool used to evaluate the potential risks associated with an investment property. It helps investors identify and prioritize risks, allowing them to make informed decisions and develop strategies to mitigate those risks.

Here are the steps to create a real estate investment property risk assessment matrix:

1. Identify risks: Begin by listing all potential risks associated with the investment property. This can include market risks, financial risks, legal risks, environmental risks, and operational risks. Consider factors such as location, property condition, tenant mix, financing options, and market conditions.
2. Define risk categories: Group similar risks together under different categories. For example, you might have categories such as market, financial, legal, environmental, and operational risks.
3. Evaluate risk impact: Assess the potential impact of each risk on the investment property. Determine the severity of consequences if the risk occurs, such as financial loss, occupancy issues, or legal complications. Assign a numerical value to represent the impact, such as on a scale from 1 to 5.
4. Determine risk likelihood: Estimate the likelihood or probability of each risk occurrence. Evaluate factors such as historical data, market trends, professional opinions, and property-specific circumstances. Assign a numerical value to represent the likelihood, such as on a scale from 1 to 5.
5. Calculate risk score: Multiply the impact value by the likelihood value for each risk to obtain a risk score. This score indicates the overall risk level for each specific risk. A higher score signifies a higher level of risk.
6. Prioritize risks: Review the risk scores to identify the most critical risks. Sort the risks from highest to lowest scores, prioritizing them based on potential impact and likelihood.
7. Develop risk mitigation strategies: Analyze each high-priority risk and develop strategies to mitigate or minimize them. These strategies might include insurance, legal contracts, due diligence, diversification, property inspections, or contingency plans.
8. Monitor and review: Continuously monitor the risks associated with the investment property. Revisit and update the risk assessment matrix regularly, especially when market dynamics change or new risks emerge.

By following these steps, you can create a real estate investment property risk assessment matrix to aid your decision-making process and facilitate effective risk management.