Where will you put your hard-earned money to make it work harder for you?

In the case study to illustrate the power of compounding, we assumed that the rate of return is 10%. Some of you have wondered that the return assumption is not a realistic one.

However, when you look at the historical returns, both Property (10.7%) and Shares (10.9%) have on average, resulted in similar long-term gains in excess of 10% per annum (refer to the chart below). 

Property vs Shares debate continues...

As both the asset classes: Direct Property and Equities are designed to build long-term wealth, there has been a hot debate for quite some time that which asset class is superior. Let's compare the two.

Equities (Shares)

1. Simple to invest

Investing in stocks is simple. You can easily research, select and invest in a wide range of stocks that align with your objectives. We recommend leveraging the experts though.

2. Lower capital and cost requirements

You need a much smaller initial investment amount to get into the equities market.

3. Holding is liquid

You can sell the shares you want, when you want, without having to wait for long periods.

4. Easy access

To buy shares in any listed company you simply need an online account and can trade for as little as $15 per trade.

5. The ability to diversify

The stock market offers you the ability to diversify across sectors such as mining, health and even property through a real estate investment trust (REIT) with ease.

Direct Property (Real Estate)

1. It is a reasonably simple asset class

It is a quite straightforward asset class to understand as it is very tangible. Many people who are attracted to this asset class will not necessarily be sophisticated investors.

2. Serves diversification 

It serves diversification as an asset class, as most Australians already have exposure to the share market via their superannuation funds.

3. Offers an opportunity to add value

You can choose to add value by undertaking cosmetic or structural improvements and manufacturing growth.

4. Hard to manipulate

It is more difficult for others to orchestrate the property market than it is to manoeuvre the share market.

5. More sensible to leverage

With a typical Loan to Value Ratio of 80%, all you need is a 20% deposit (and other expenses) to own 100% of the property. True that one can leverage share portfolio as well using instruments like CFDs. However, in a down market, margin calls on leveraged share portfolios are not uncommon. Thus, leverage with housing is a lot higher and less risky than with shares.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there's no right or wrong investment class. Each investment brings with it unique risks, along with advantages and disadvantages. A diversified investment plan should have exposure to both asset classes. Also, it poses the question, which you can personally appreciate?

Generally speaking, the Australian housing sector is currently in a growth cycle. Locating the right property in a good neighbourhood with the right price point will give you a strong foundation for growth and success. Yes, the market is surging, but not all the deals are the same. Therefore, one should be conducting due diligence. There are no shortcuts, except that you can choose to outsource the research and hire the experts.

Should you be unsure of what investment strategy is good the best option for you, the Get RARE Properties team is here to help. We are an independent buyers' agent here to guide you through the complexities of purchasing properties. With us in your team, you can ensure that you will get the right personalised strategy, the right property at the right place.

As experienced property investors and negotiators, we look at the property as a business transaction and do not let emotions creep in. We will help you choose the best deal at the right negotiated price and save you from undue stress making the process very pleasing and rewarding. As a buyer's agent and experienced property investor, we understand the difficulties of looking for feasible properties. We will work closely with you to streamline this complicated process, making it as rewarding and stress-free as possible for you. The perfect property could be waiting just for you, but you would never know about it unless it was presented to you.