Property investors in Australia are far more diverse than many people realise. While it’s easy to assume that only high-income earners or executives can afford to invest in property, the reality tells a very different story.
In fact, property investors in Australia come from almost every occupation, income level, and age group. From teachers and nurses to electricians and truck drivers, everyday Australians are building wealth through property investment and many without flashy job titles or massive savings.
So, who are Australia’s most common property investors, and more importantly, how can you become one too?
Property Investors in Australia Are More Common Than You Think
Owning a home has long been considered the great Australian dream. But increasingly, owning an investment property is becoming just as aspirational and achievable.
According to Agile Market Intelligence, one in four Australian households plans to invest in property within the next 12 months. If they follow through, they’ll be joining nearly 2.3 million Australians who earned rental income in the 2022–23 financial year, based on the most recent Australian Taxation Office data.
Even more interesting, PropTrack research shows that property investors in Australia span nearly all adult age groups, income brackets, and professions. This highlights an important truth:
Property investment isn’t about your job title — it’s about strategy, planning, and finance structure.
Which Occupations Dominate Property Investors in Australia?
So, which professions are leading the way when it comes to Australian property investors?
Using ATO 2021–22 financial year data compiled by PropTrack, the occupations with the highest number of property investors include:
Top Property Investor Occupations in Australia
- General Managers – 65,559 property investors
- Teachers (Primary & Secondary) – 64,529 property investors
- CEOs / Managing Directors – 60,800 property investors
- Nurses – 55,519 property investors
- Accountants – 49,203 property investors
But the list doesn’t stop there.
Everyday Jobs Among Australia’s Top Property Investors
- Electricians – ranked 12th (21,397 investors)
- Truck Drivers – ranked 18th (15,378 investors)
- Police Officers – ranked 20th (15,400 investors)
This data clearly shows that property investors in Australia are everyday people, often using smart strategies rather than high incomes alone.
How to Become a Property Investor in Australia (Even Without a High Income)
If you don’t see your occupation on the list — or you think you’re not “financially ready” — don’t worry. Below are four proven pathways to investing in property in Australia, used by thousands of successful investors.
1. Harness Home Equity to Invest in Property
One of the most common strategies used by Australian property investors is leveraging home equity.
National home values have increased 49.1% over the past five years, which means many homeowners now hold more equity than they realise.
Home equity is the difference between:
- Your property’s current market value, and
- The remaining balance on your home loan
Depending on your situation, this equity may be used as:
- A deposit for an investment property
- Security to reduce upfront cash requirements
Not sure how much equity you have?
Contact us today to find out if your existing home could help you become a property investor sooner than you think.
2. Turn Your First Home Into an Investment Property
Another popular approach among property investors in Australia is keeping your first home as a rental when upgrading.
Instead of selling:
- You may avoid selling costs
- You could retain a long-term asset
- You may leverage existing equity to help buy your next home
This strategy is especially common among Australians who bought their first home early and are now ready to upsize.
However, it’s important to note:
- Financing structures can change
- Tax implications may apply
- Loan types and interest rates may differ for investment properties
That’s why speaking with both a mortgage specialist and an accountant is essential before committing.
3. Rentvesting: A Growing Trend Among Australian Property Investors
Rentvesting has become increasingly popular, particularly among first-home buyers and younger property investors in Australia.
What Is Rentvesting?
Rentvesting involves:
- Renting where you want to live
- Buying an investment property in a more affordable suburb
This strategy allows you to:
- Live in your preferred location
- Earn rental income
- Potentially benefit from capital growth elsewhere
According to PropTrack, rentvesting is on the rise, especially in high-priced metro areas.
Things to Consider Before Rentvesting
- You may not qualify for first home buyer grants
- Stamp duty concessions may not apply
- Cash flow and tax benefits should be carefully assessed
When done correctly, rentvesting can be a powerful way to enter the property market — but it must align with your long-term goals.
4. Co-Investing to Increase Buying Power
If buying solo feels out of reach, co-investing could be another viable pathway into property investment in Australia.
This involves purchasing a property with:
- Family members
- Friends
- A trusted partner
Benefits of Co-Investing
- Shared deposit and costs
- Increased borrowing capacity
- Faster entry into the market
Important Considerations
- Clear ownership structure
- Agreed expense responsibilities
- Defined exit strategy
Some lenders even offer home loans designed specifically for co-borrowers, making this option more accessible than many realise.
Why More Australians Are Becoming Property Investors
The rise of property investors in Australia isn’t accidental. Many investors are motivated by:
- Long-term wealth creation
- Rental income
- Tax considerations
- Financial security for the future
But success doesn’t come from rushing in — it comes from choosing the right strategy and finance structure for your personal situation.
If you’re thinking about becoming a property investor in Australia, the most important first step is understanding your options.
Before buying:
- Speak with a tax professional about obligations and benefits
- Understand your borrowing power
- Choose an investment strategy that aligns with your goals
Want to know if property investment is right for you?
Contact us today to explore your options and take the first step toward becoming a confident property investor.
Phone: 1300 855 022
Email: clientservices@zippyfinancial.com.au
Zippy Financial is an award-winning mortgage brokerage specialising in home loans, property investment, commercial lending, and vehicle & asset finance. Whether you are looking to buy your first home, refinance or build your property investment portfolio, the team at Zippy Financial can help find and secure the right loan for you and your business.
About the Author:
Louisa Sanghera is an award-winning mortgage broker and Director at Zippy Financial. Louisa founded Zippy Financial with the goal of helping clients grow their wealth through smart property and business financing. Louisa utilises her expert financial knowledge, vision for exceptional customer service and passion for property to help her clients achieve their lifestyle and financial goals. Louisa is an experienced speaker, financial commentator, mortgage broker industry representative and small business advocate.
Connect with Louisa on Linkedin.
Louisa Sanghera is a Credit Representative (437236) of Mortgage Specialists Pty Ltd (Australian Credit Licence No. 387025).
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