Why Every Family Office Needs a Written Real Estate Strategy

Why Every Family Office Needs a Written Real Estate Strategy

December 01, 20251 min read

Introduction
Real estate is one of the most powerful wealth-building tools for families, yet many family offices approach it opportunistically rather than strategically. Without a written real estate strategy, families risk overexposure, misalignment, and lost opportunities.

Why It Matters
Family offices often manage portfolios across multiple asset classes. Real estate can act as a growth engine, income stream, and intergenerational legacy tool — but only when its role is defined.

What to Include in Your Strategy:

  • Investment philosophy (income, growth, legacy)

  • Asset class preferences

  • Target markets

  • Risk tolerance

  • Deal structures (direct, co-invest, fund)

Pro Tip: Draft an Investment Policy Statement (IPS) for real estate just like you would for equities. It’s a simple document that aligns your family, advisors, and future decisions.

Conclusion
A written strategy turns real estate from a random opportunity into a generational wealth engine. Start with one page — and build from there.


Founder of the Family Office Real Estate Institute

DJ Van Keuren

Founder of the Family Office Real Estate Institute

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