Revealed: why investors would cash in now instead of banking on the future

Even owners of Brisbane’s highest-performing investment properties are deciding now is the time to sell, with local investor Paul Stringer cashing in on years of capital growth over gambling on what comes next. Mr Stringer and his wife Cheralyn bought a unit in Fortitude Valley nearly two years ago, hoping to have an extra stream of rental income before their retirement. “Originally it was a long-term investment,” he said. “We were hoping we’d sell closer to the Olympics … in other cities around the world, the property values rose significantly before the Olympics came to town.” Paul Stringer and his wife Cheralyn bought a renal property in Fortitude Valley nearly two years ago, but are so happy with its growth they’re already looking to sell. Picture: Liam Kidston Signing a deal with Kooii Apartments for management of the unit, the couple were able to use their rental income to pay off the home’s mortgage, allowing them to grow their equity and reduce their taxes through negative gearing. “I think we get about $700 a week,” Mr Stringer said, “which was pretty decent when we signed. It almost covers expenses, because there is strata and that. Cheralyn and I put a little bit in each...