Why I Chose Property Over Shares and Still Do

I’ve been asked more times than I can count why I chose to build my wealth through property instead of shares.

It’s a fair question. Shares are accessible. They’re liquid. They’ve been a go-to for long-term wealth creation for decades. But despite all that I’ve always felt a stronger connection to real estate. It just made more sense for me.

I gave shares a shot early on. I researched companies and kept up with financial news. But the volatility stressed me out. Watching my balance fluctuate daily was not my idea of a long-term plan. Plus, who knows what Trump is going to do next and how it might impact the share market!!

That’s when I turned my full attention to property. It wasn’t just about personal preference. It was about finding a strategy I believed in and could stick with.

Here’s why I chose property over shares and why I’m glad I did.

I Like Tangible Assets

I’ve always preferred things I can see and touch. With property there’s something real about owning land and bricks. I understand it. I can inspect it. I can improve it. Shares on the other hand always felt more abstract.

Property gives me a sense of control. If a property is underperforming I can do something about it. I can renovate add a secondary dwelling, adjust rents or review the management strategy. In the share market I can’t call the CEO and suggest improvements. I just have to ride the wave.

I Can Leverage Property More Effectively

One of the biggest reasons I chose property is the ability to leverage. In real estate I can use a deposit of 10 to 20 percent to control 100 percent of the asset. That kind of leverage simply isn’t available in the stock market for most people.

I used this to my advantage. After building equity in one property, I could borrow against it to buy the next. Over time this allowed me to build a $6 million+ portfolio while working full-time.

Shares may offer leverage through margin loans but the risk of a margin call during market volatility always made me uncomfortable.

Property Offers Stronger Cash Flow Potential

Rental income from property provides consistent cash flow that can increase over time. While dividends from shares exist they’re often modest and can fluctuate based on company performance or economic conditions.

With real estate I’ve been able to manufacture extra cash flow. I’ve built a granny flat. I’ve bought dual-occupancy properties. I’ve selected high-yield suburbs based on rental demand. These strategies have given me financial breathing room and helped me to scale my portfolio, while providing a passive income to set up my retirement.

Property Helped Me Step Away From Corporate Life

The long-term goal for me was always about freedom. I didn’t want to work until 67. I wanted options. Time. Flexibility.

Property helped me get there.

It gave me the confidence to step away from my corporate role. It funded a five-month family trip around Australia. And now it allows me to spend my time helping others build portfolios of their own through brickstowealth.

Shares might have eventually done the same. But property got me there faster with less stress.

It’s Not That Shares Are Bad

Let me be clear. I’m not against shares. I think diversification matters. I know people who have done well in the market. But for my personality and goals property aligned better.

I like taking an active role in my investments. I enjoy the strategy, the negotiation, the due diligence. Property lets me use those skills and build something with real impact.

There’s no one-size-fits-all investment path.

For me property offered the right mix of control, leverage, income and long-term growth. It’s allowed me to build significant wealth without the daily rollercoaster of the stock market.

At brickstowealth, I now help other professionals do the same. Whether you're just starting out or ready to scale a property portfolio that actually supports your lifestyle goals, we can build a plan that works for you.

If you're still unsure whether property is right for you let’s talk about your options. It might be the vehicle that changes your future, the way it changed mine.

Visit brickstowealth.com.au or connect with me here on LinkedIn.

In my 6-part video series, I cover this and every other major decision you need to make

From setting your goals and picking the right market to negotiating smart and doing your due diligence, it’s all covered.

Join here and get video 1 today.