Are we really this rare?

Exponentially smaller.

 

Leo - would love a source.

Thanks

 

http://onproperty.com.au/percentage-of-australians-own-property/

 

In my opinion, it is not about "how many", but "how big" is your portfolio.
You could have 5 x 200k ones, and you could have only 1 worth 1 Mil.

 

Beyond 1 you're already getting into the rarified air, but even 3 is less than half a percent of the population according to that link:
"5.5% of investors or 0.43% of Australians owned three properties."

 

I agree with you, nontheless those numbers are staggering.

 

The problem is; there are some genuinely interested and ambitious younger folk out there who would like to learn how you've done what you've done - as you probably were.

One of the "reaping rewards of success" for folks in life is a bit of recognition for their efforts, or a bit of a subliminal show-off without looking too up yerself...subliminal brag. Most folks do it; human nature.

So, why not do it and let a little bit of the knowledge get passed on.

We here on PC and SS all whinge how we try to help those who obviously need it, but never take the advice on board, so we shouldn't push those away who bother to ask.

Back to the original question; yes; I believe folks like us are the rarity, but don't tell the media and all the FHB's and all the anti-NG brigade.

 

Oh yeah, I'll have a chat about RE to anyone that is interested.
But if I'm getting a bank cheque for several thousand $, I'm not going to explain myself to the cashier if they ask what it's for.

 

I've been totally open when the staff at my day-to-day bank have noticed me drawing deposits. Usual question is "First home?".

I like to give them an honest answer as, truth is, most of them have no clue how the investment things works and I'm happy to open the door of possibility for them.

Some have become quite curious after seeing me buy a few and ask how I've done it.

I've even caught up with staff for coffee to go in to more detail.

I like planting seeds.

 

I'm not trying to be deceitful. As I said I'm happy to chat to anyone about RE who is interested.
I mean if I go to a random branch and get a random teller and they ask "Buying a car?" or "Buying a house?" or if withdrawing a large amount of cash the other day "Going shopping?". That's the situation I find it's a little unprofessional to ask those questions.

 

16,000 actually, I think you may have gotten your decimal place wrong.

And I'd say close to 10% of them might be on here.

 

@Azazel, there was no implication of deceit, and I totally get that some folks like to keep stuff private. Many people find those questions invasive, and others find it an example of genuine interest.

I'm very open, with intent, as I have realised that curiosity leads to understanding which can lead to change.

I don't go shouting form the rooftops, but if someone asks, I always tell.

 

I do not think it is unprofessional at all.. It is making convesation... What ever you say you are spending the money on they will reply "that is exciting"....Similarly when I make a deposit they ask if I am saving for anything special (because I had higher than usual student savings and I bank on campus)

 

Wouldn't worry me, but I'm probably weird.

He/she may have been simply trying to engage in conversation as part of "building relationships", but hasn't developed the skill of which ones to ask? Anyway; no matter.

When I was younger, I worked at a very exclusive Melbourne Golf Club...lots of seriously wealthy Members.

I often wanted to ask the ones I knew at a closer level how they got to their position, but never was brave enough, because I thought they would wave me on - or worse.

 

Always? Like anyone who tries to pry into your personal financial affairs you have to tell them?
It depends on the situation. I had a particular bank branch near my workplace that I'm more than happy to never have to go back to after refinancing.

 

Yes, always. If someone asks a question and answering it will not put myself or others at risk, or damage existing relationships, I am entirely open.

 

Was that for your 2 marrickville units mate?

 

I think that is great. =) I am always happy to talk about investing but I wouldn't share too many details, but it would depend on the audience! Most people don't even know I have an IP because there is a fair bit of judgment associated with that (but to be fair TAS is very low socioeconomic).. I am just telling people now (since I just finished uni), that I am saving really hard as a FHB. People respect that but investors are often frowned upon in my experience..

 

Be careful with who you tell. Don't be so naive.

 

Yep. Those occurred within 6 months of one another and raised some eyebrows as they knew I already had a PPOR.

I was in there again recently for the 5% for my soon-to-settle Brisbane one, which lead to one of the staff asking me to coffee so I could explain how the **** I was doing it.