Optimal LTV For Your Portfolio

[Jeff L.]

Hey BP -

I've been evaluating the structure of my portfolio lately, and have come across a perplexing question (One that may not have a decisive answer!).

What is the optimal LTV for a buy-and -hold portfolio?

When the market is good you hear 90/10%. Most long term investors who have weathered a downturn seem to lean toward 70/30% or even higher.

My goal  (like many others) is to leverage debt to grow my portfolio as quickly as possible; all the while keeping enough equity in the game to minimize risk and keep the gears tuning when the market pulls back.

So what do you think? Is there an answer to this questions? Does is depend on the investor/market/asset class? Any advice would be a huge help!

Thanks!

Jeff