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The minimum investment on AcreTrader varies by listing, generally starting at $15,000, with some past deals ranging from $3,000 to $100,000. This range is determined by factors such as the size of the offering and the price per acre.
Investing in Sweater's Cashmere Fund, like any venture capital investment, carries inherent risks. These risks include market volatility, economic conditions, and challenges specific to the companies in which the fund invests.
Investing in AcreTrader involves risks like casualty, condemnation, and eminent domain, common to real estate investments.
Sweater provides biannual redemption windows for investors to access their investment before the end of the investment term. However, there may be restrictions and limitations on the redemption process.
AcreTrader investments are considered illiquid, meaning investors should be prepared to hold their investments for the specified duration. While it may be possible to sell shares in a private transaction after this period, there is no established market for them, making resale uncertain.
The returns from investing in AcreTrader vary, with historical examples showing realized internal rates of return (IRR) ranging from 9.4% to 30.3% over holding periods between 1.7 and 4.2 years. These variations highlight the potential for both moderate and significant returns, depending on the specific investment and market conditions.
Sweater's Cashmere Fund is designed for long-term investments, but they provide biannual redemption windows for investors to redeem a portion or all of their investment.
AcreTrader investments target hold periods of 3 to 10 years, though this can vary based on market conditions and sale opportunities. Properties may sell earlier or extend beyond the target period, depending on whether favorable buying offers arise or if market conditions dictate a longer hold.
Any U.S. resident over the age of 18 with a Social Security Number (SSN) is eligible to invest in Sweater's Cashmere Fund.
Investing on the AcreTrader platform is limited to accredited investors, as defined by SEC regulations. Non-U.S. citizens can invest if they are legal residents of the United States.
The assets on Sweater's platform, including the investments made by the Cashmere Fund, can be subject to volatility.
Farmland assets on AcreTrader typically exhibit lower volatility compared to stocks and bonds, offering a more stable investment option due to the steady demand for agricultural products and the land's intrinsic value.
Sweater operates under SEC regulations, allowing them to accept investments from non-accredited investors.
AcreTrader is regulated by the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, SEC rules, FINRA rules, and state laws, reflecting its commitment to transparency and investor protection. As a registered Broker-Dealer, it must adhere to strict financial standards, undergo regular audits, and comply with ethical practices to maintain its standing and ensure the security of its investors' assets.
Specific details about Sweater's insurance policies are not available on their website.
AcreTrader does not explicitly mention specific insurance coverage for investments on its platform. Generally, real estate investments, including farmland, are insured against risks like natural disasters and fire to protect investment value.
According to Sweater's website, the Cashmere Fund does not pay dividends to investors.
AcreTrader may distribute net cash from annual income to investors after operating expenses, typically once a year in December. These distributions, based on pro rata ownership, are not guaranteed. If distributed, funds go to the investor's AcreTrader wallet or, for SDIRA or IRA accounts, to the custodian.
Investors in Sweater's Cashmere Fund can redeem their investment during biannual redemption windows. However, there may be restrictions or limitations on the redemption process.
Investors can typically get their money back when the property they've invested in is sold at the end of its expected hold period, which may range from 3 to 10 years.
Sweater's Cashmere Fund charges a fee of up to 2% for redeeming investments during the semi-annual redemption windows.
AcreTrader charges investors initial closing costs around 2% of the offering value and an annual 0.75% servicing fee of the land's value for management. The primary revenue comes from a 5% commission on the farm's sale, charged to the seller. There are no “carried interest fees.” Fee structures vary by deal, so reviewing offering documents is recommended for specifics.
Venture funds, like Sweater's Cashmere Fund, generally provide tax reporting support to investors.
AcreTrader aims to provide K-1 tax forms electronically by early March, although delays can occur due to external reporting needs. Tax treatment varies: gains on land sold within a year are taxed at ordinary income rates, while longer holdings are taxed at capital gains rates. Depreciation on buildings or equipment may affect taxes.