What is an investment property?

An investment property refers to real estate that is purchased primarily for the purpose of generating income, rather than for personal use. This can include properties that provide rental income, such as residential homes, commercial buildings, or land that can be leased. The core idea behind investment properties is that their primary function is to yield a return on investment through rental payments, resale value appreciation, or both.

The other options present different contexts of property usage that do not align with the definition of an investment property. For instance, a personal residence is primarily for the owner's occupation and not for generating income. Properties with historical significance might have inherent value due to their uniqueness or cultural importance, but their primary purpose isn't necessarily to generate income. Lastly, while short-term rental properties can technically be investment properties, they are not the sole definition of investment properties, which can encompass a wide range of real estate types aimed at income generation.