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ActOn Wealth Team | May 15, 2025

The Property Myth Busted: Do Homes Really Double in Value Every Decade?


Explore the reality behind the belief that Australian property values double every 10 years, and learn how market factors influence investment outcomes.


Explore the reality behind the belief that Australian property values double every 10 years, and learn how market factors influence investment outcomes.
The Property Myth Busted: Do Homes Really Double in Value Every Decade?
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"The belief that Australian property values double every decade is a widely held notion among investors and homeowners. However, recent data and expert analyses suggest that this "rule of thumb" may not hold true across all markets and timeframes."

ActOn Wealth TeamThe belief that Australian property values double every decade is a widely held notion among investors and homeowners. However, recent data and expert analyses suggest that this "rule of thumb" may not hold true across all markets and timeframes.

ActOn Wealth Team

Team ActOn Wealth


Key Insights into Property Value Trends and Investment Strategies

Understanding Australian Property Growth: Is Doubling Every Decade Realistic?

The popular belief that Australian property values double every ten years has long guided the decisions of investors and homeowners alike. However, as market dynamics evolve, it's essential to scrutinize this assumption critically. Is the idea rooted in fact, or merely a comforting myth?

What Does the Data Say?

Recent CoreLogic data reveals a more nuanced perspective on property value growth. From April 2015 to April 2025, national property prices increased by approximately 67.3%, which falls significantly short of the 100% required for a property to double in value over a decade. Cities like Adelaide and Brisbane have shown impressive growth rates of 93.6% and 91.2%, while Sydney (61.6%) and Melbourne (54.8%) lagged behind. This variability underscores how different regions can experience disparate growth rates.

Understanding the Rule of 72

To further understand property investment returns, the Rule of 72 offers a practical estimation method. To determine how long it takes for an investment to double, simply divide 72 by the expected annual growth rate. For example, if your property is projected to grow at 6.8% annually, you can anticipate it to double in about 10.6 years—slightly longer than the common ten-year assumption. This perspective is crucial for aligning investment expectations with reality.

Factors Influencing Property Value Growth

  1. Location: Property values are often driven by location, particularly those near city centers or sought-after neighborhoods. High demand in these areas typically translates to greater appreciation.

  2. Economic Conditions: Broader economic factors, like employment rates and interest rates, significantly impact property markets, influencing buyer sentiment and overall demand.

  3. Supply and Demand: A limited housing stock paired with strong demand can push prices upward, while oversupply may stall growth. Understanding these dynamics can help inform purchasing decisions.

  4. Infrastructure Developments: New amenities such as schools, parks, and transport links enhance property value. Recognizing upcoming infrastructure projects in your target area can be a game-changer for investment potential.

Strategic Considerations for Investors

While hoping for property values to double in the upcoming decade is tempting, it's vital for investors to maintain realistic expectations. Here are some strategies to consider:

  • Conduct Thorough Research: Diving deep into your local market trends, economic indicators, and forthcoming developments can provide clarity on potential investment performance.
  • Diversify Investments: Avoid putting all your eggs in one basket; consider varying your investments across different regions and property types.
  • Seek Professional Advice: Engaging with financial advisors or property experts can offer tailored insights to support informed decision-making.

How ActOn Wealth Can Assist

At ActOn Wealth, we understand the complexities of the Australian property market and offer expert guidance tailored to your investment goals. Whether you're a first-time buyer or a seasoned investor, our financial advisors can provide you with insights to navigate property investments effectively. We'll help you explore options such as whether to buy or rent, the impact of market conditions on investment types, and strategies to safeguard your portfolio against inflation.

Invest in Your Future with Expert Financial Planning

With determination and the right guidance, you can position yourself for financial success. Engaging in comprehensive financial planning allows you to establish a solid foundation for your investments, ensuring you remain on track towards achieving your goals.

Contact Us Today

Ready to make informed property investment decisions? Reach out to ActOn Wealth today to schedule a consultation tailored to your financial ambitions.

SEE MORE ON PROPERTY


All You Need To Know About Investing

Welcome to a broad introduction to investment. This topic can quickly become as complex as you want it to be, and thats where our team of financial advisors in Melbourne can assist.


Welcome to a broad introduction to investment. This topic can quickly become as complex as you want it to be, and thats where our team of financial advisors in Melbourne can assist.
Property Investment Advice

Real estate investments are in Australians DNA. So whether you want to buy your first home, upgrade to your dream home, or build your property portfolio, our highly experienced financial advisors in Melbourne can help make it a reality.


Real estate investments are in Australians DNA. So whether you want to buy your first home, upgrade to your dream home, or build your property portfolio, our highly experienced financial advisors in Melbourne can help make it a reality.
Should You Buy a Home or Rent

Should you rent or buy a property? Well, until we find out more about your situation and aspirations, there is no clear-cut answer to this. There is no one-size-fits-all solution no matter what the property market is doing. However, there are some salient questions you can ask yourself that should provide good insights and nudge you in one direction or the other. Lets explore these here.


Should you rent or buy a property? Well, until we find out more about your situation and aspirations, there is no clear-cut answer to this. There is no one-size-fits-all solution no matter what the property market is doing. However, there are some salient questions you can ask yourself that should provide good insights and nudge you in one direction or the other. Lets explore these here.

How can ActOn Wealth help?

Ready to make informed property investment decisions? Reach out to ActOn Wealth today to schedule a consultation tailored to your financial ambitions.

Ready to make informed property investment decisions? Reach out to ActOn Wealth today to schedule a consultation tailored to your financial ambitions.

Get Tailored Advice


  • Achieve Your Financial Goals with Expert Planning

    Partner with our financial experts who will tailor a strategy to align with your long-term goals. Whether you're planning for retirement, saving for education, or optimising investments, we guide you every step of the way.

  • Tailored Lending Solutions for Every Need

    Explore a range of lending options crafted to fit your financial situation. From first-home buyers to refinancing or investment loans, our team provides the expertise to secure the best rates and terms for you.

  • Expert Property Advice for Buyers and Sellers

    Maximise your property outcomes with our comprehensive advisory services. Whether you're entering the market for the first time or a seasoned investor, get personalised consultations that drive value and results.

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Questions
Is investing in property still worth it?

Property prices will forever rise and fall, but the market doesn’t always dictate the best time to invest. Why? Because it’s far more complex than market fluctuation. Your cash flow, tax deductions, overall financial health, and goals are all critical factors. Our property investment advisors take a holistic look at your situation and provide tailored advice to see if it’s worthwhile for you.

How do i choose the right property for investment?

The answer depends on factors like goals, risk tolerance, capital, and market conditions. Residential properties offer rental demand, affordability, and potential capital growth but may have higher tenant turnover. Commercial properties offer higher income potential, longer leases, diversification, but require larger investments and market knowledge. Thorough research, professional advice, and considering individual circumstances are essential for making an informed decision. Seek sound property investment advice in Melbourne and contact our team today.

What are some common risks associated with property investment?

Common risks in Australia include the fluctuation of property prices, the possibility of rental vacancy, maintenance and repair costs, changes in government regulations and taxation policies, and unexpected expenses. Investors should conduct thorough research, seek professional advice, and carefully assess and manage these risks. For property advice in Melbourne you can trust, contact our team today.

What Others Say


★★★★★

Matt and Thomas did an online presentation for my work-place. They went through the process of buying and lending when it come's to first homes and answered any questions that came up. They made something difficult to understand, very easy to comprehend. It brought forward a lot of new information, especially for me, being a recent first-home buyer. An excellent presentation conducted by some very knowledgeable people! If you're unsure about where to start when buying a home, or even managing your finances, it would be silly not to speak to the team at ActOn Wealth.


Thalia Galea
Matt and Thomas did an online presentation for my work-place. They went through the process of buying and lending when it come's to first homes and answered any questions that came up. They made something difficult to understand, very easy to comprehend. It brought forward a lot of new information, especially for me, being a recent first-home buyer. An excellent presentation conducted by some very knowledgeable people! If you're unsure about where to start when buying a home, or even managing your finances, it would be silly not to speak to the team at ActOn Wealth.
★★★★★

ActonWealth and our personal broker (Hayden Dewar) provided multiple solutions for our borrowing needs. The bank we have banked with for 20 years and were dragging their heels regarding a home loan (despite a large deposit, no debt and a 6 figure income on a 2.50 multiplier). The service certainly made the property purchase as stress free as we had hoped. 10/10.


Seamless And Hassle Free From Start To Finish
ActonWealth and our personal broker (Hayden Dewar) provided multiple solutions for our borrowing needs. The bank we have banked with for 20 years and were dragging their heels regarding a home loan (despite a large deposit, no debt and a 6 figure income on a 2.50 multiplier). The service certainly made the property purchase as stress free as we had hoped. 10/10.
★★★★★

The team at ActOn Wealth have recently assisted me with my first home purchase, and I couldn't have asked for a better service. Applying for a home loan was particularly daunting, and finance isn't something that I understand, so to have someone there to guide me through was exactly what I needed. They answered all of the questions I had, and kept me up to date with exactly where my loan was at. Being my first home purchase, this was really important to me. If you are after advisers who genuinely care about their clients and who have amazing communication skills, then you can't go past ActOn Wealth.


Thanks ActOn Wealth For Helping Me With My First Home Purchase!
The team at ActOn Wealth have recently assisted me with my first home purchase, and I couldn't have asked for a better service. Applying for a home loan was particularly daunting, and finance isn't something that I understand, so to have someone there to guide me through was exactly what I needed. They answered all of the questions I had, and kept me up to date with exactly where my loan was at. Being my first home purchase, this was really important to me. If you are after advisers who genuinely care about their clients and who have amazing communication skills, then you can't go past ActOn Wealth.

Looking for more


Buying your first home? Our First Home Buyer Finance Pack is your go-to guide for loans, grants, budgeting tips and what to expect — all in one easy download.

Get your property guide

Buying your first home? Our First Home Buyer Finance Pack is your go-to guide for loans, grants, budgeting tips and what to expect — all in one easy download.

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