The creation of effective engagement and education programs for financial planners is currently the top priority for the direct property fund industry, new research has found.
The Australian Direct Property Investment Association's (ADPIA) recent property survey found 28 per cent of its funds management members believed that investor education was the most important issue for their business.
ADPIA vice president Adam Murchie said there was currently exceptional value to be found in direct property markets, but some investors were avoiding the sector because of lingering uncertainty following the global financial crisis.
"ADPIA's aim is to make sure advisers are comfortable with investing once again in this sector, and know what to look for and how to take advantage of the current opportunities," he said.
"Unlisted property products is an important component of a balanced portfolio, so it's important to have access to information on the available opportunities.
"Having hit the bottom of the market, now presents an opportunity to invest at the right price before these opportunities pass by."
ADPIA's survey, answered by over 100 respondents, also found 26 per cent of members believed availability of bank debt was a major issue, while 23 per cent said access to equity was a big problem.
ADPIA represents the $60 billion direct property investment industry, which has over 250,000 investors.
