We often treat investing like a numbers game — comparing returns, running spreadsheets, calculating yields. And yes, due diligence is essential.

But here’s something we don’t talk about enough: you don’t stay committed to numbers. You stay committed to values.

It’s the same with relationships. You don’t marry someone based on their tax bracket or their ROI potential. You choose someone who aligns with your energy, your values, your vision of life.

I believe investing is exactly the same.

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👤 It’s Not “Which Is Better?” — It’s “Which Is Better for You?”

The property vs shares debate has been covered endlessly. Some blogs will show that shares outperform property. Others will argue that property builds more wealth through leverage. And they’re both right — depending on who you are.

Because you don’t need the highest-returning asset, you need the one you’ll actually stick with.

Let me explain why.

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🏠 Why I Invest More in Property

I personally lean toward property because I enjoy the proactive, hands-on nature of it. I like managing things. I like improving an asset. I like seeing it evolve over time.

Property gives me that.

• I can renovate and add value directly.
• I choose which tenants I work with.
• I manage repairs, maintenance, upgrades — and I enjoy that.
• I understand it intuitively — it’s tangible, and I can walk through it.

In Australia, property also benefits from a unique environment:

• Negative gearing allows you to claim a tax deduction on investment property losses.
• Capital gains tax discounts apply after 12 months.
• If it’s your home, you might even sell it CGT-free.
• Plus, people here just… love property. It’s almost cultural.

If you’re like me — someone who’s detail-oriented, action-driven, and doesn’t mind rolling up their sleeves — property might be your match.

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📈 Why Shares Might Be Your Perfect Fit

Shares are the opposite personality. They’re independent. They don’t need you to call them every week. They just want to be left alone to grow.

If property is like a committed relationship, shares are like compounding in a long-distance relationship. You need to trust more than control.

And that works beautifully — for the right person.

• Shares are passive and require less time.
• You can diversify across industries and countries.
• It’s highly liquid — you can buy or sell quickly.
• And history shows: the ASX 200 has returned around 8–10% per annum, and that’s without touching it.

For someone who’s emotionally disciplined, doesn’t enjoy the idea of fixing gutters, and wants to “set and forget,” shares might be the way to go.

You also benefit from:

• Franking credits (a big win for Aussie investors)
• Low-cost ETFs like VAS or A200 that track the entire market
• No tenant headaches

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🤔 Not Sure Which One Suits You? Ask Yourself This:

Here’s a simple self-check to help guide your decision:

Question	If You Answer…	You Might Prefer…
Do I enjoy managing projects and people?	Yes	Property
Do I prefer things I can touch, fix, improve?	Yes	Property
Do I want something passive and scalable?	Yes	Shares
Am I emotionally reactive to short-term ups and downs?	No	Shares
Do I value control over my investments?	Yes	Property
Do I value simplicity and automation?	Yes	Shares

It’s not a test — just a reflection. No one else can answer it better than you.

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📘 Final Thoughts: This Is Personal

Let the blogs argue about “which one is better.” That’s like asking, “Who’s the best person to marry?” The answer will always be “it depends.”

What matters is who aligns with your strengths, values, and temperament. That’s where long-term success — and satisfaction — comes from.

So if you love data, strategy, and passive compounding — choose shares.
If you love making decisions, solving problems, and seeing physical progress — choose property.
If you love both? Balance both. Many people do.

But don’t force yourself into an investment just because it “makes sense on paper.”

The best investment is the one you can live with — and grow with — for decades.