Homeownership and property investment have long been key pillars of financial security and wealth creation in Australia. However, the latest CoreLogic Women and Property Report 2025 highlights some stark differences in how men and women engage with property markets. While overall homeownership rates between men and women show near parity, significant gaps persist in property investment and other wealth-building assets.

This article explores the key findings of CoreLogic’s latest report, the barriers women face in property investment, and why closing the gender investment gap is essential for financial independence and long-term security.

Homeownership: Women keeping pace but facing challenges

The report finds that 62.7% of women in Australia own at least one residential property—whether as a home or investment—compared to 64.4% of men. This near-equal ownership rate suggests that women are achieving homeownership at similar levels to men, largely due to dual-income households and long-term financial planning.

However, affordability remains a significant challenge, especially for women on lower incomes. While 85.5% of women earning over $100,000 own property, this figure drops to just 58.9% for women earning under $100,000. The ability to save for a deposit, qualify for a mortgage, and manage ongoing homeownership costs are major barriers for many women—more so than for their male counterparts.

The gender gap in property investment

One of the most concerning findings in the report is the disparity in investment property ownership. Only 11.4% of women own an investment property, compared to 14.2% of men. This gap reflects broader trends in financial decision-making, with women generally being more risk-averse and less likely to invest in property and other wealth-building assets.

In terms of broader investments, the gender gap is even wider:

• 40% of women reported having no investments at all (including property), compared to just 27.8% of men.
• The biggest gender discrepancy in investments was in cryptocurrency ownership, with 24.1% of men owning digital assets compared to just 8% of women.
• Superannuation balances showed a stark contrast, with men reporting an average balance of $232,372 compared to $153,887 for women—a 51% difference.

These statistics highlight the ‘gender investment gap,’ where women are less likely to invest in assets that could provide long-term financial security.

Why homeownership matters for women

Owning property isn’t just about having a place to live—it plays a crucial role in financial stability, wealth accumulation, and even mental well-being. According to the NAB Australian Wellbeing Survey, homeowners report a higher standard of living and greater financial security compared to renters.

The importance of homeownership is particularly pronounced for women in retirement. Research from the Grattan Institute found that two-thirds of renting retirees live in poverty, with single women being disproportionately affected. As outright homeownership becomes an increasingly important component of retirement planning, ensuring more women can access and invest in property is vital for long-term financial security.

The affordability challenge: Barriers to entry

The CoreLogic report identifies several key challenges preventing women from entering the property market:

1. Affordability pressures – Rising property prices were the most common challenge, cited by 41% of women compared to 37.1% of men.
2. Saving for a deposit – 34.7% of women said saving for a deposit was a significant barrier, compared to 27.6% of men.
3. Loan approval difficulties – 17.4% of women found it difficult to qualify for a mortgage, compared to 11.2% of men.
4. Lack of financial literacy and investment confidence – More women than men reported feeling unsure about the property-buying process, particularly among younger generations.

Bridging the investment gap: Solutions and opportunities

Closing the gender investment gap requires a multi-faceted approach, including policy changes, education, and greater financial support. Some potential solutions include:

• Government-backed homeownership schemes – Programs offering low-deposit home loans, such as the First Home Guarantee, can help women enter the market sooner.
• Financial literacy initiatives – Encouraging more women to engage in financial education, investment planning, and property market insights can boost confidence and participation.
• Flexible lending criteria – Addressing gender pay gaps and offering tailored lending solutions can make it easier for women to secure property loans.
• Support for single-income households – Given that many women are single parents or live on a single income, policies that provide greater financial security and rental assistance can improve long-term stability.

Conclusion: Empowering women through property investment

While homeownership rates between men and women are nearly equal, women continue to lag behind in property investment and broader asset ownership. The gender investment gap poses long-term financial risks, particularly for women in retirement. Addressing barriers such as affordability, loan access, and investment confidence is essential to empowering more women to build wealth through property.

At IFP Advisory, we believe in providing the right education, strategies, and financial support to help women navigate the property market with confidence. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or looking to expand your investment portfolio, our expert advisors can help you create a tailored plan to achieve your financial goals.

For further insights on property investment, avoiding common pitfalls and staying informed about market conditions. reach out to John Tsoulos or Frank Pennis at IFP Advisory on (08) 8423 6176. Your investment success depends on making informed, strategic decisions.

IFP Advisory is an Accredited ASPIRE Property Advisor Network advisor and all professionals are Qualified Property Investment Advisors (QPIA). Property investing is about purchasing a property that aligns with your goals and investment strategy. You should never be sold an investment. Know your numbers! If you invest wisely and strategically, the Australian residential property market can be a rewarding venture.

This article is based on findings from the CoreLogic Women and Property Report 2025. All rights reserved to CoreLogic.