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From One Home to a Portfolio: My Journey to Financial Freedom Through Real Estate

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I want to share my personal journey of how I went from owning one home to building a property portfolio of eight investment properties and an Airbnb, where I’ve reached a point where I could retire and never work again. But the path wasn’t easy — and I certainly didn’t start out with all the knowledge or experience. In fact, when I first began, I had no idea what property investing could truly do for me. 

Taking the First Leap: My Early Days in Property 

  • Taking the leap: I initially thought of property investment as a long-term commitment, envisioning owning it for decades and slowly paying off two mortgages. The idea was intimidating, but I knew I needed to dive in to make progress.
  • The habit of buying in pairs: Surprisingly, I found myself purchasing properties in pairs. It seemed like a natural choice as I looked for opportunities to build my portfolio quickly. My first major investment journey took me up and down the Central Coast of NSW, attending inspection after inspection.
  • Challenges in rental yields: Each time I thought I had found the right property, the rental income wasn’t enough to cover the mortgage payments. This was especially concerning because I wasn’t earning much at the time, and the thought of managing two mortgages seemed risky.
  • Expanding my search to Orange, NSW: Realizing I needed to find better opportunities, I decided to expand my search to Orange in the Central West of NSW. At this point, I didn’t have a well-defined strategy; my focus was primarily on finding properties with decent rental yields.
  • Sticking to a tight budget: With a budget of around $500k, I had to be selective. I found my first property for $160k, and in a rush of excitement, I secured another one on the same day for $270k.
  • Over-offering without negotiation skills: In my inexperience, I didn’t realize I could negotiate lower prices. I ended up over-offering on both properties. When both offers were accepted almost immediately, I was both thrilled and overwhelmed, asking myself, “What have I gotten myself into?”
  • Reaching out for advice: In panic mode, I called my broker, unsure whether I could manage two mortgages simultaneously. To my relief, he reassured me that I could easily service both mortgages, which gave me a sense of relief, though I was still cautious.
  • Managing tight finances: At the time, I had just started my trade business, and my then-partner was early into her hairdressing apprenticeship. With a tight budget and a lot of uncertainty, securing those two properties was a huge step forward. We were excited about what the future held, though we knew challenges lay ahead.

  • A turning point: Little did I know, just six months after securing those first two properties, my life would change drastically. It marked the beginning of a new chapter that would teach me resilience, perseverance, and the power of learning from mistakes. 

Looking back, it was a pivotal moment in my journey—facing the unknown, taking that first leap, and learning on the go. That’s when I truly realized that taking calculated risks in real estate could lead to unexpected rewards, even when you feel uncertain. 

A Life-Changing Setback: Divorce and Rebuilding Myself

Soon after securing my first two properties, my life took a devastating turn. I had just started my trade business before getting married, and everything seemed to be falling into place. But within six months of marriage, everything crumbled. I was blindsided by a divorce. 

This wasn’t just the end of a relationship; it felt like the collapse of everything I had built. My values, my self-belief, and my confidence all shattered. I felt immense shame and embarrassment, and I withdrew from the world. It was as though I was stuck in a fog, consumed by an overwhelming sense of failure. 

On top of this emotional turmoil, my trade business — which I had poured so much effort into — began to suffer. I found it hard to focus, and my emotions clouded my judgment, making it nearly impossible to make sound decisions. Everything felt out of control. It was as if life had pressed the reset button, and I wasn’t sure where to start again. 

The Road to Recovery:

  • Slow start: Rebuilding my life and business took a full year. The process was slow, painful, and full of moments where I questioned my ability to bounce back. There were days when I doubted if I would ever recover — or if I even wanted to. 
  • Shifting mindset: Eventually, something shifted inside me. I realized that, despite how badly things had unraveled, I still had the power to shape the next chapter of my life. Staying in that dark place forever wasn’t an option. 
  • Learning to be patient: One of the hardest lessons I learned was that growth is never linear. It’s messy, filled with setbacks, and often painful. But those struggles are where the biggest transformations take place. I had to allow myself to move through the process, even when it felt like I was taking two steps back for every step forward. 
  • Focusing on self-growth: As I began to focus more on myself and my healing, something remarkable happened: my business started to pick up again. Slowly but surely, I regained control of my trade business and my life. Each small victory, whether it was getting through a tough day or making progress in my personal growth, added up.


In hindsight, those dark moments were some of the most transformative. The adversity I faced allowed me to discover strengths within myself that I didn’t know I had. Though it was a challenging time, it taught me resilience and patience — qualities that would prove invaluable as I continued on my journey of property investing and personal growth. 

The Pressure of Holding On During COVID: Keeping My First Two Properties

Just when I thought things were finally looking up, the world was hit by the unexpected: the COVID-19 pandemic. As a property owner, I was thrust into an entirely new kind of fear. With market uncertainty, lockdowns disrupting everyday life, and no clear end in sight, I questioned whether I could hold onto the two properties I had worked so hard to secure. 

Facing Uncertainty:

  • The pressure of holding on: The properties were worth less than what I had paid for them, and selling at a loss seemed like a very real possibility. I was caught between two choices: walk away and accept the loss, or try to hold onto both properties, despite the overwhelming uncertainty. 
  • Financial struggles for tenants: Tenants were losing jobs, and many were struggling financially. I didn’t know if my properties would remain tenanted or if I would be stuck covering both mortgages on my own. The idea of paying two mortgages during a time when the economy was crumbling was terrifying. 
  • “What if” scenarios: Every day, I found myself replaying scenarios in my head. What if my tenants lost their jobs and couldn’t pay rent? What if I had to sell at a loss? What if the banks stopped lending altogether, and I was left with properties I couldn’t afford to keep? These questions haunted me as I refreshed the news every day, hoping for some clarity.


Surviving the Storm: 

  • Adaptability was key: Despite the fear and uncertainty, I made the conscious decision to hold on. I worked closely with my property manager, adapting to the changing situation. We communicated frequently, keeping tenants informed and understanding their challenges. Flexibility with my tenants, some of whom were struggling, became crucial in navigating the storm. 
  • Resilience and patience: Even though it was one of the scariest times of my life as a property investor, I held my ground. The experience taught me a lot about resilience, patience, and the importance of staying calm even when everything around you feels chaotic. The situation forced me to confront my fears head-on and develop a more steadfast mindset. 

Looking back, that period in the midst of the pandemic not only tested my ability to manage stress and uncertainty but also strengthened my commitment to my investments. It was an incredibly tough time, but I came out of it with a deeper understanding of how to weather financial storms. It was a defining moment in my journey, one that reinforced the value of persistence, careful planning, and adaptability in real estate investing. 

Building Momentum: Scaling My Portfolio

After navigating the uncertainty of COVID and seeing my first two properties not only survive but thrive, my confidence in the power of real estate soared. Despite the challenges of the pandemic, my properties continued to bring in rental income, which solidified my belief that real estate could be a stable investment, even during the most unpredictable times. This success inspired me to expand further. 

Building on Success:

  • Growing the portfolio: With newfound confidence, I was eager to scale my investments. I purchased two more properties, refining my approach along the way. Now, I focused on properties that offered strong rental yields and potential for capital growth. Each new acquisition was a calculated move toward my long-term goal of financial freedom. 
  • Refining strategy: At this stage, I was actively seeking properties that not only performed well in terms of rental income but also had the potential for appreciation. My goal was to build a portfolio that would provide long-term financial security and wealth.

Facing Challenges in Scaling:

  • The bank’s changing perspective: After securing my fourth investment property (my fifth property overall), I ran into a major roadblock. The banks began classifying me as a “professional investor,” which might sound like a good thing but actually made financing much more difficult. As a professional investor, lenders viewed me as a higher-risk borrower, which led them to apply stricter lending criteria. 
  • Being penalized for success: Despite having strong rental income and a solid track record, I found myself facing tighter restrictions from the banks. They began factoring in more expenses, treating my existing properties as larger liabilities. The lending criteria became more conservative, and I was told I had reached my borrowing limit. It felt like I was being penalized for being too successful, even though my properties were profitable and performing well. 
  • The borrowing limit: Even though I had the capital and experience to manage more properties, the banks wouldn’t approve any more loans due to their restrictive models. This felt incredibly frustrating — I had the know-how, the cash flow, and the drive, but the traditional lending system seemed to be working against me.

Pivoting and Finding Alternative Solutions:

  • A shift in strategy: This roadblock became a turning point in my journey. I realized that if I wanted to continue expanding my portfolio, I needed to find alternative financing strategies. I couldn’t rely solely on traditional bank loans, especially with the limits they had placed on me. 
  • Exploring creative financing options: I began researching and exploring different ways to access capital. Options like joint ventures, Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs), and other creative structures allowed me to bypass the traditional lending limitations. These strategies opened doors to more opportunities, enabling me to continue building my portfolio and pushing toward my financial goals. 

That moment of frustration and the realization that I had reached the traditional lending limit was a pivotal one. It taught me that even when things seem impossible, there’s always another way. By thinking outside the box and leveraging alternative financing options, I was able to continue my real estate journey and build the portfolio I had always envisioned.
 

Learning the Hard Way: Courses, Promises, and the Value of Mentorship

As I continued on my property investment journey, I realized that there was still so much to learn. Eager to enhance my knowledge, I sought out various courses to deepen my understanding of the market, improve my negotiation techniques, and develop effective investment strategies. However, what I encountered was far from what I expected. 

The Frustration with Courses:

  • Overwhelming theoretical knowledge: The courses I enrolled in promised to be comprehensive and informative but often delivered very little practical value. They focused too much on theoretical knowledge, without offering real-world applications or clear guidance. I was learning about concepts, but there was no actionable insight on how to implement them in actual property investments. 
  • Data-driven research without actionable insights: While the courses emphasized the importance of data analysis and encouraged me to act as my own buyer’s agent, they didn’t equip me with the necessary negotiation skills or teach me how to interpret data effectively. I would often bring real property examples to course instructors, hoping for personalized feedback. Unfortunately, I was met with vague responses, often being directed back to the course materials rather than receiving the practical guidance I needed. 
  • Lack of confidence and direction: Despite investing significant time and money into these courses, I felt stuck. I had gained knowledge about potential opportunities and strategies, but I lacked the confidence to apply them in real-life situations. The lack of tailored advice left me feeling like I was spinning my wheels.

The Turning Point: Finding a Mentor

  • A mentor who understood the challenges: Realizing that I needed more than just theory, I sought out a mentor who could offer the real-world experience I was craving. This mentor had a portfolio of nearly 20 properties and, most importantly, had walked the path I was trying to follow. He understood the nuances of the market and the challenges of navigating financing, lending, and risk mitigation. 
  • Personalized guidance: My mentor’s approach was completely different. Rather than offering generic advice, he provided tailored strategies that directly addressed my unique situation. He guided me through the complexities of lending, showed me how to assess deals more accurately, and introduced me to creative financing strategies like Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs). His insights were invaluable and helped me make sense of the more complicated aspects of property investing. 
  • Breaking through barriers: With his mentorship, I learned how to think strategically, not just as an investor but as a problem solver. He helped me navigate the roadblocks created by the banks and gave me the tools I needed to secure more properties. This allowed me to break free from the limitations I had once faced and continue expanding my portfolio.

A Game-Changer for My Investment Journey

Looking back, I can confidently say that finding a mentor was the game-changer I needed. While the courses had some merit, they lacked the personalized, hands-on approach that my mentor offered. His real-world experience, combined with his willingness to share knowledge, gave me the confidence and practical insights I needed to make informed decisions. 

Under his guidance, I was able to secure my next five properties and expand my portfolio in ways I had never imagined. Beyond the properties, the mentorship instilled in me a sense of clarity and direction. It wasn’t just about accumulating more knowledge — it was about knowing how to apply that knowledge effectively in a complex and competitive market. 

That mentorship was a pivotal moment, and I can now look back with gratitude for the support that propelled me forward in my investment journey. 

Overcoming Financial Roadblocks: Finding New Strategies

Facing that wall was frustrating, but it pushed me to think outside the box. I realized I needed new strategies to keep growing my portfolio, so I sought out a mentor who had successfully built a large property portfolio himself. He introduced me to Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) and other creative financing strategies that allowed me to navigate around the banks’ lending limits. 

Armed with this new knowledge, I was able to break through the financial roadblocks and, in the same year, took the leap to buy five more properties all at once. This was a significant risk, but I had learned how to structure the deals in a way that allowed me to continue growing. It was a huge milestone for me and a testament to how far I had come from those early days filled with fear and hesitation. 

Reflecting on the Journey

From start to finish, this entire journey—from my first two properties to scaling up to eight—unfolded within a mere three years. The path was not without challenges, but with each new purchase, I became increasingly knowledgeable and confident in my abilities. 

Looking back, I now recognize that I overpaid for my first five properties. I was inexperienced and didn’t know how to negotiate better deals at the time, which led to a number of mistakes. However, by the time I was ready to acquire five properties simultaneously, I had developed a robust system, learned from my previous errors, and honed my negotiation skills. This evolution marked a turning point in my investment journey.
 

This newfound financial freedom empowered me to step back from my trade business and redirect my focus toward something I am genuinely passionate about: helping others navigate the world of property investing. 

That passion led me to become a buyer’s agent. I’ve experienced the highs and lows, faced uncertainty, and learned invaluable lessons from my mistakes along the way. But more importantly, I’ve witnessed firsthand how property can be a powerful tool for transformation. It has the potential to change lives, create wealth, and provide security for families. 

Now, I am dedicated to helping others experience that same transformation. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to scale your portfolio, I’m here to guide you through the complexities of property investing. Together, we can explore opportunities, overcome obstacles, and build a path to financial freedom. 

If my journey has taught me anything, it’s that success in real estate doesn’t come from luck or a one-size-fits-all approach; it comes from knowledge, strategy, and the willingness to learn from every experience. I invite you to join me on this journey, where together we can unlock the potential of property investing and pave the way for a brighter financial future. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What advice would you give someone starting their property investment journey?

Start small, focus on properties with strong rental yields, and don’t hesitate to ask for help. Learn from each experience and adjust your strategy as needed.

Strong rental yields, potential for capital growth, and a location with demand are key factors to consider.

Explore creative financing options like SPVs, joint ventures, or alternative lending solutions. Seek advice from experienced mentors or professionals.

Yes, by being strategic, focusing on affordable properties with good yields, and leveraging financing options effectively.

Risks include market downturns, tenant issues, and financial strain. You can mitigate these by maintaining an emergency fund, conducting thorough research, and building a diversified portfolio.

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