It’s a sobering statistic: roughly 92% of investors never progress beyond their first or second investment property. Even more telling, fewer than 20,000 Australians own six or more investment properties. This means that the dream of building lasting financial freedom through property investment remains out of reach for most, despite their initial ambitions and good intentions.

But why is this the case? What keeps so many investors from achieving the portfolio—and the financial independence—they desire? The answers are as varied as the investors themselves, yet certain patterns emerge time and again. Some investors purchase the wrong property, seduced by hype or misleading data rather than sound fundamentals. Others make critical errors in structuring their investments, choosing the wrong entity or ownership arrangement, which can create unnecessary tax burdens or limit future flexibility. And many fall victim to poor or misaligned advice, following guidance that doesn’t suit their personal goals or market realities.

Yet, above all, the most common reason investors fail is surprisingly simple: the absence of a strategic plan for wealth creation. Without a clear, comprehensive, and tailored plan, even the best intentions can flounder in the shifting tides of the property market.

A plan is more than just a wish list or a vague intention to “invest in property.” It is a living document—a roadmap—that guides each decision, helping investors to sidestep pitfalls, seize opportunities, and adapt to changes along the way.

At Imagine Wealth Investments, our expertise is dedicated to helping you build and grow your wealth with confidence.