Is he going to jail? Are you? The case for Property Investing NOW
- Suchita Isaac
- Jun 26
- 4 min read
Elephant. Room. Rates will surely be cut again in July given inflation lower.
Now, in the words of the infamous Jigsaw, “I’d like to play a game”.
Maybe I’ve been too engrossed in the Mushroom Cook trial lately but imagine for a moment that you are a Jury.
It’s 2026 and Willie B. Broke is on trial for Failure to Purchase Property in 2025 Despite Reasonable Opportunity, Leading to Significant Financial Regret*
*obviously this is a mock trial/case but I’ve tried to use real data forecasts where possible
Chanelilng my two personalities (ask my wife - IYKYK) I will present the arguments from both the Prosecution and the Defence.
Let me know your verdict in the comments…
The Prosecution:
“Your Honour, the evidence is clear: Willie B. Broke had the financial means, a stable income, and market access in 2025. Yet he failed to act.”
Key points:
He never spoke to a broker to assess ability to buy
The cost to hold this property would only be $380pw over 2026 and $170pw over the next 20 years (after tax) with the opportunity to claim the tax deduction each week instead at end of year, pointing to lower out of pockets
He had reasonable equity in a home already for the deposit and costs
Interest rates decreased 4 times, which allowed him (and everyone else) to borrow an additional $80,000. Bigger pockets for ALL buyers attributed to price growth he missed out on
Based on his ability to buy a property for $700,000 he missed out on $42,000 growth in the next 12mths and $2m over 20 years (6% p.a growth)
Rental prices went up by $1,200 for the year (4.8%)
Immigration of 400,000 people with housing demand of 115,250 over 12mths BUT new dwelling approvals of only 16,000 meant supply shortage and increased demand
First Home Buyer scheme increases took effect 1st January 2026 and many investors front-ran the market, adding to price growth
He is now priced out of the markets that he would’ve been interested in and therefore reasonable to assume he has cost his household $2,000,000 over the next 20 years
“Ladies and gentlemen of the jury — the opportunity was clear. The cost of inaction is now quantifiable. Despite many attempts by media and regular emails from professionals in the industry Mr. Broke’s decision — or lack thereof — has cost him wealth, security, and a place in a rising market.”
The Defence:
“Members of the jury, hindsight is a powerful weapon. But in 2025, the outlook was far from certain. Mr. Broke made a cautious, rational decision based on what he knew — and felt — at the time. His inaction was based on Warren Buffet’s rule #1 - Never Lose Money. With no guarantees he chose to preserve what capital and cashflow he did have”
Key points:
Economic uncertainty with wars and rumours of wars
Media headlines pointed to a possible correction
Inflation was volatile so reasonable to not rely on RBA rate cuts fuelling price growth
Affordability was tight for prospective home owners, so despite tight supply there was limited means to afford properties. Again pointing to surprised price action
House prices were already at record highs
He was too busy with a young family and working to invest the hours necessary for a successful investment
$380per week in the near term would stretch his household and was not willing to make necessary sacrifices to be able to afford that
“Inaction does not equal failure. It was a calculated delay — not a missed opportunity. He is not guilty of foolishness, only of caution. He is happy to continue the status quo and enjoys his job so will be OK to work for a few more years at it, in his 60s. Yes, the market rose. But this trial isn’t about economics — it’s about intent. And Willie acted in good faith. Sometimes the right decision still brings regret. “
What do you think? I’d love to hear… Is he guilty?
Are you interested in looking at your property investment options? You might be surprised by how achievable it really is and whilst you won’t be on trial for inaction you might experience regret in the next decade or so.
Or maybe not…
Time will tell.
Evidence presented. Over to you.
P.S this is not financial advice. I am biased as I’m personally investing. I took a look at my kids the other day and imagined a world where their friends get handed a chunk of their parents super and some properties but they are still working. That’s not the future I wanted for them so I acted. I might get it wrong but I won’t die trying. The key in my household is still being able to spend that quality time with them and enjoy experiences without stretching too far. I want to create a future for them but still afford to enjoy today too. It’s about balance and whilst not easy I am convinced my future self (and they) will be thankful for the action I took today
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