Melbourne couple earn $250,000 investing in Perth property while renting in Box Hill
A Melbourne millennial couple unlocked an astonishing six-figure gain through a savvy property move all while still renting. Find out how.
A Melbourne millennial couple who once thought homeownership was out of reach have pocketed more than $250,000 in property gains — all while continuing to rent.
Pascal Butler and his partner Georgia, who rent in Box Hill with their toddler Mimi and have a second child on the way, broke into the market 18 months ago with a little help from family and a bold shift in strategy.
“When we first spoke to The Herald Sun last year, we’d just bought our first investment property in Perth using equity from my dad’s home,” Mr Butler said.
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“Back then, buying in Melbourne felt impossible.
“But that first step has paid off — our investment’s already grown by over $250,000 in value.”
The 33-year old said the couple are now preparing to buy a second property, while continuing to rent in their preferred suburb to stay close to family and work.
“Our investment doesn’t cost us anything out of pocket, and it’s growing in the background. That puts us in a much stronger position to eventually buy the home we really want,” he said.
The couple turned to property investment group OpenCorp, who built a strategy that made use of Pascal’s dad’s equity while protecting his retirement.
OpenCorp chief executive Cam McLellan said this kind of intergenerational support was becoming more common as property prices push beyond traditional affordability.
“Young families are doing it much tougher now than previous generations — but they’re also getting smarter,” Mr McLellan said.
“Pascal and Georgia are a great example of what’s possible when you think differently and act early. It’s not about getting rich quick — it’s about building a strong foundation.”
Mr McLellan said rentvesting — renting where you want to live while investing where you can afford — has become one of the most effective strategies for young Victorians.
“When done right, it allows families to stay close to jobs, schools, and grandparents, while still building wealth in the background,” he said.
With their second investment on the horizon and their family growing, Mr Butler said the couple had no regrets.
“We’re not chasing status — we’re building security,” he said.
“This strategy has changed our lives.”
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Originally published as Melbourne couple earn $250,000 investing in Perth property while renting in Box Hill
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