Money not spent or invested depreciates over time and compound interest is a thing of the past.  Property is one of the few positive yielding, durable and secure assets available to regular buyers. In a world where other investment products, including government bonds, are more uncertain than ever, property remains a safe and steady option. 

If you find a property that looks like an amazing investment, take a very deep breath and figure out what you are not seeing. Probably one time in twenty, it will be a great deal and you just happened to get there first. More often that not, others will have seen it before you and will have passed on it for a reason. 

Consider your appetite to risk very carefully. Plenty of people will tell you that you can have it all (high income, high safety) but it just doesn´t work that way. The safest deals don´t have the highest yields, but they are dependable, less time consuming and easier to sell on exit. 

Have a plan, follow it and you’ll be surprised at how successful you can be. Most people don’t have one. 

Budget for repairs and vacancy periods: all properties, from the very top to the very bottom of the food chain are going to have vacancy periods and repairs that will eat into your income stream. Older properties, cheaper properties and properties in low income neighborhoods will have much higher vacancy and repair costs than newer properties in middle class and upper middle class areas.

Always double-check what an off-plan developer says to you - too many people believe everything they are told by a salesperson. Double check planning permits, local rental rates, comparable sales prices and much else besides.

Invest with more confidence overseas – make sure the deal has a stand-alone yield rather than relying on a rental guarantee.

If you are seeking a vacation home, it is essential that you view the short listed properties and their surrounding areas with your own eyes.