From Struggles to Success: The Inspiring Journey of Rohit Gehlot

In a world where stories of resilience and determination often inspire us, Rohit Gehlot’s journey stands out as a beacon of hope. Arriving in Australia eight years ago with barely a penny to his name, Rohit has transformed his life and that of his family through sheer grit and strategic financial decisions. His remarkable story of acquiring 11 homes before the age of 40 is not just about real estate; it’s a testament to the power of perseverance and timely opportunities.

A New Beginning

On his son’s second birthday in July 2017, Rohit Gehlot made the life-altering decision to leave India for Sydney. With only $7,000 in his pocket and no job prospects, he faced the daunting challenge of starting anew in a foreign land. His only connection was a cousin, who provided a lifeline during his initial struggles. Rohit’s journey was not without hardship; he had to borrow $20,000 from his cousin to cover living expenses while he sought employment.

Despite these challenges, Rohit’s determination never wavered. By February 2018, after experiencing an initial job loss, he secured a position at Commonwealth Bank, which marked a turning point in his financial journey. This job not only stabilized his finances but also allowed him to repay his debts and bring his family to Australia.

The Road to Financial Stability

Rohit’s first salary from Commonwealth Bank in March 2018 was a pivotal moment. He recalls the relief of being debt-free and the joy of finally being able to treat his family to a meal out—a simple yet significant milestone after months of financial strain. “We spent $48 and for the next couple of days we kept talking about how much money we had spent,” he reminisces. This newfound stability laid the groundwork for his ambitious plans for homeownership.

With a renewed work contract and a pay increase, Rohit began to think seriously about buying a home. In early 2019, he managed to secure a 10% deposit for his first property by withdrawing funds from his provident fund in India. With the help of a mortgage broker, he received pre-approval for a loan, combining his savings and provident fund to make his first purchase.

The Property Journey Begins

In May 2019, Rohit bought his first home in Kellyville for $900,000—a property that has since appreciated significantly in value. Timing played a crucial role in his success; he signed the contract just before the Labor Government was elected and shortly before the Sydney Metro Northwest began operations. As interest rates began to drop later that year, Rohit found himself in an advantageous position to expand his property portfolio.

The Reserve Bank of Australia cut interest rates multiple times in 2019, which Rohit credits as a significant factor in his ability to grow his investments. “It helped, for sure, because it left more money in my pocket,” he explains. This financial breathing room allowed him to pay off his mortgage faster and consider additional property purchases.

Learning and Adapting

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Rohit seized the opportunity to deepen his understanding of property financing. He immersed himself in podcasts and followed property experts, which inspired him to explore alternative lending options. A broker from the eastern suburbs introduced him to non-banking lenders, enabling him to borrow around $400,000 due to the favorable interest rates.

In January 2021, Rohit purchased his first investment property in Brisbane, leasing it for $430 a week. Just six months later, he and his wife acquired a second investment property for $310,000, which they leased for $380 a week. This strategic approach allowed him to expand his portfolio rapidly.

Building a Diverse Portfolio

By the end of 2021, Rohit had amassed five investment properties, including his primary residence. His portfolio continued to grow, with additional purchases in Mackay and Townsville, bringing his total to eight properties by June 2022. Last year, he reached a remarkable milestone by acquiring three more properties in Sydney and Melbourne, elevating the total worth of his portfolio to an impressive $10.7 million.

Rohit’s success has not only transformed his life but also inspired him to help others. He has become an accredited buyer’s agent, launching his business, InvestorAid, to guide aspiring property investors through their journeys.

A Message of Hope

Reflecting on his journey, Rohit emphasizes the unique perspective that migrants bring to property investing. “I think migrants are good with property investing because they have nothing to lose and everything to gain,” he states. His story serves as a powerful reminder that with determination, strategic planning, and a willingness to take calculated risks, anyone can achieve their dreams.

Rohit’s journey from a struggling migrant to a successful property investor is not just about financial success; it’s about resilience, learning, and the relentless pursuit of a better life for his family. His story encourages others to prepare, research, and seize opportunities, proving that even the most challenging beginnings can lead to extraordinary outcomes.