Does Owning a House Mean You’re a Property Investor?

Real estate is not the only game in town.

The dream of owning a house is ingrained in many of us from an early age. We’re often told that buying a home is a fail-safe way to build wealth.

But does owning your own home truly make you a property investor?

Let me give you my take as someone who bought his first property at age 30. Since then, I bought two more rental properties. And I have a seven-figure stock portfolio.

I don’t have an agenda. I’m a full-time writer, and I don’t work in real estate sales. I simply want to share my thoughts on real estate ownership and investing with you.

Property owner vs property investor

Firstly, it’s important to clarify the distinction between a homeowner and a property investor.

When you buy a house to live in, you’re purchasing an asset, yes. Over time, this asset may be appreciated. When you decide to sell, you could make a profit. In this sense, you might think of yourself as making an investment.

However, there’s a crucial difference between owning a house and being a property investor.