Making money from your property was the focus for the latest luncheon seminar hosted by Business Bermuda at Conyers Dill & Pearman.Attendees were given an insight into the current state of real estate market by Frederica Forth-Anglies of Century 21 Bermuda Properties, who explained that despite sales decreasing, maintained properties have largely held their value, while unmaintained properties and rentals have dropped by 20 percent or more.“Now is the time to buy,” she said. “Prices are low and interest rates are lower than they have been in many years.”Ms Forth-Anglies acknowledged that in this higher-risk economy banks have placed tighter controls on financing, making it more difficult to borrow the funds needed to buy a home.However, she urged the audience to consider alternative options such as condominiums or properties in non-preferential areas in order to afford a home on a lower budget.She advised anyone considering purchasing a new property to shop around to determine which banks were offering the best rates and apply to be pre-approved for a mortgage in order to establish a price range before beginning their search for a home. Secondly, she said that prospective buyers should choose one agent who knows the market well, while there were also options like the Bermuda Housing Corporation to take into account.For those who own homes, Ms Forth-Anglies encouraged refinancing, consolidating, or restructuring debt in order to avoid struggling with mortgage payments. As for prospective landlords, she said it was best to accept that the rental market had shifted with a greater competition for among those looking for lower rents with more amenities.The next Bermuda Business seminar on ‘Investing 101: Making The Most Of Your Investment Choices’ will be held on Thursday April 21 at 12.30pm.For more information visit www.businessbermuda.org