“Smart property investing is about more than bricks and mortar—it’s about making sure each investment supports your lifestyle goals, not just your balance sheet. That’s what true financial strategy looks like.”
— Daniel Grusd, Director, Onelife Wealth Management
Property investment continues to hold strong appeal, but in a rapidly evolving economic and regulatory landscape, it’s essential to ask: how does property truly fit into your broader investment strategy?
At Onelife Financial, we believe in tailored financial planning, which means considering the entire picture. Property might play a starring role in your portfolio, or it might complement other assets to create a more balanced and resilient foundation.
Understanding the Strengths of Property
Real estate can offer long-term capital growth, rental income, and a sense of stability. It’s a physical asset that many investors feel confident about, especially when compared to more volatile asset classes, such as shares.
Potential benefits include:
- Tangible, long-term asset growth
- Leverage through borrowing to increase investment size
- Potential tax advantages (e.g., negative gearing, depreciation)
But What About the Trade-Offs?
Broader economic and political forces are also reshaping property markets. It’s essential to weigh these external risks:
- Shifting government policies and tighter regulations
- Increased taxes and surcharges for investors in some states
- More restrictive lending conditions and serviceability hurdles
No investment is without risk. With property, those risks can include:
- Rising interest rates impacting cash flow
- Property maintenance and ongoing costs
- Lack of liquidity compared to shares or ETFs
- Market and regulatory shifts that reduce rental yield or resale value
Diversification Is Key
Relying too heavily on one asset class—even property—can expose you to unnecessary risk. A well-diversified portfolio might include property alongside superannuation, shares, and other investments, each playing a specific role.
Ask yourself:
- What proportion of my wealth is tied up in property?
- How easily can I access funds if I need them?
- Am I too exposed to a single market or strategy?
Your Goals, Your Balance
Whether you’re planning for retirement, building wealth, or looking for cash flow, the right mix of assets will depend on your unique situation. Property can play an important role—but only when it’s balanced with your goals, timeframe, and appetite for risk.
We’re Here to Help You Find That Balance
At Onelife Financial, we work with clients to evaluate how property fits into their overall strategy. We help you understand the trade-offs, plan for the long term, and ensure your portfolio supports the future you’re working toward.
Let’s shape a strategy that puts your life goals at the centre of your investment decisions. Contact our team here.
Sources:
- Australian Taxation Office – Property investor tax implications
- CoreLogic – Market trends and interest rate impacts
- ASIC Moneysmart – Property investment guide
- Onelife Financial Insights articles:
