As home ownership slips further out of reach for many young Australians, one Gen Z investor is challenging the narrative. Before the age of 30, former semi-professional soccer player Zach Hristodoulopoulos has built a $5 million property portfolio through discipline, strategy and long-term thinking, according to realestate.com.au
Zach’s path to property success began alongside his sporting career, playing for National Premier League South Australia clubs while working in sales and completing a finance degree.
“I was working full-time, I was studying full-time and playing soccer at a semi-professional level,” he said to realestate.com.au
That demanding period, which he calls his “learning and earning stage”, laid the groundwork for his investing knowledge. Long hours on the road became an education through constant exposure to property podcasts and market insights.
His first purchase came at just 22: an older home on a large block in Gilles Plains, Adelaide.
“I’m a big believer in buying properties with land attached to them,” he said.
“This was a great first purchase because 95 per cent of the value was in the land…”
He and his partner paid $400,000 for the property — now worth roughly double. Further purchases followed during COVID-19 and again in 2022, each targeting well-located homes with subdivision potential.
Zach’s strategy focuses on buying “ugly houses” in strong locations and unlocking land value over time.
“Location does 90 per cent of the heavy lifting when it comes to a property’s performance.”
Today, he owns five properties with two more subdivisions planned. Through his buyer’s agency HRISTO, he now helps others invest, urging action over hesitation.
“There’s never a perfect time to invest,” he said.
Zach’s story highlights that with focus, patience and smart choices, property success is still possible – even before 30.
Source: realestate.com.au
