Ep 338: 7 Ways to Start Investing Today with $70k - with Rohit Gehlot & Todd Sloan

In this episode of Pizza and Property, Todd Sloan is joined by Rohit Gellert, founder of Investor's Aid, to explore seven practical strategies for starting property investing with just $70,000 in 2026. The conversation unpacks everything from entry-level owner-occupier purchases using government schemes like the 5% First Home Owner Deposit Scheme and Shared Equity Scheme, to advanced value-add strategies involving renovations, secondary dwellings, relocatable homes, and even call options for future development. The hosts emphasize that while many strategies are possible, profitability depends on market timing, feasibility, and proper due diligence. A major warning is issued around house and land packages, which are often marketed aggressively but carry high risks and inflated costs. The episode concludes with a strong call to action: define your financial goals first, then choose strategies that align with them—because property investing isn’t about buying real estate, it’s about achieving financial freedom through intentional, goal-driven action. Key takeaways include: (1) Use government schemes like the 5% deposit and shared equity to access higher-value properties with minimal upfront cash; (2) Prioritize freestanding homes over units for better capital growth due to higher land-to-asset ratios; (3) Stack strategies—like buying a fixer-upper with renovation potential and later adding a granny flat—to maximize returns; (4) Consider relocatable homes as a cost-effective way to add a second dwelling; (5) Use call options to gain 12–24 months of time to secure development approvals without committing to purchase; (6) Avoid house and land packages unless you’re in a rapidly appreciating market with no other options; and (7) Always start with your goal—your strategy should serve your outcome, not the other way around.