In today’s world, where everyone wants instant success, it can feel like we’re all chasing quick wins. But here’s the thing: some of the greatest successes come from playing the long game—and no one knows this better than Warren Buffett. Yes, the man who’s made billions, not by chasing the hottest trends but by sticking to a long-term strategy that’s, well… kind of boring.
But boring can be brilliant. Let me share Buffett’s story with you, why long-term thinking has worked for me in property investment, and a little insight into how I’ve applied this approach in, well… other parts of my life too.
Warren Buffett: The King of Long-Term Thinking
Warren Buffett didn’t make his billions by trying to get rich quick. In fact, if there’s one thing he’s famous for, it’s for being patient. This is a man who plays the long game in a world where everyone else is trying to get rich by next Tuesday.
Buffett bought his first stock at age 11—because what else are you doing when you’re 11, right? And then he waited. And waited. And while everyone else was losing their minds over market swings, he was quietly holding onto his investments, watching them grow.
One of his best-known investments is Coca-Cola. Now, back in the 1980s, when Buffett invested heavily in Coke, people thought he’d gone a bit mad. But here we are, decades later, and Coca-Cola has become one of his most successful investments. The reason? He held onto it. While others were jumping in and out of the market, Buffett knew that patience, paired with quality, beats chasing quick wins every time.
One of his famous quotes sums it up perfectly:
“Someone is sitting in the shade today because someone planted a tree a long time ago.” — Warren Buffett
Buffett’s strategy wasn’t flashy, but it worked. Through stock market crashes, recessions, and global pandemics, Buffett held firm, trusting that time and consistency would reward him in the long run. And it has—big time.
Applying Warren’s Lessons to Property Investment
So, how does Buffett’s stock market wisdom apply to property investment? Honestly, it’s the same game. Just replace “stocks” with “houses,” and you’ve got the same formula for success: buy quality, hold onto it, and let time do the work.
When I first started in property, like many beginners, I made mistakes. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of flipping properties or thinking you’ll make a quick buck. But the truth is, the real money in property—just like in stocks—comes from holding onto quality assets for the long term.
Over the years, I’ve bought and sold properties, but the core of my portfolio is based on a buy-and-hold strategy. These are the properties that give me consistent, reliable income month after month. Sure, there are always ups and downs in the market, but if you’ve got a quality property, it’s going to appreciate over time while you collect rent.
It’s the property equivalent of planting a tree and enjoying the shade later. Not very glamorous, but it works.
As Buffett himself says:
“The stock market is a device for transferring money from the impatient to the patient.”
My Personal Journey: Playing the Long Game in Life and Property
If I’ve learned one thing from my years in property, it’s that I’m definitely a long-term thinker. In fact, I’ve always been this way—even in my personal life. Take my relationship with my now-husband, for example.
We were together for 20 years before we finally got married! No, seriously. And on our first date, I asked him if he wanted marriage and kids—because why waste time if we weren’t on the same page, right? Some people thought I was jumping the gun, but I like to plan ahead. It turns out, we were both on board with the long game. Fast forward a couple of decades, and we’re happily married (finally I can almost hear my family say!).
The same long-term mindset applies to my property investments. I don’t rush in or make decisions based on a quick gain. I plan ahead, look at the big picture, and invest in properties that will continue to pay off over time.
Yes, it takes patience. Yes, there are times when you wonder if it’s all worth it. But trust me—if you’re willing to wait, the rewards come.
Why Long-Term Thinking is Key to Success in Property
Let’s be honest: the property market can be a bit of a rollercoaster. There are times when it feels like the market is soaring, and you’re tempted to sell everything and cash in. But here’s the truth: the real power in property comes from holding onto your investments for the long term.
Take the 2008 financial crash, for example. I knew many investors who panicked, sold off their properties, and lost out in the long run. But those of us who held onto quality properties saw them bounce back—and then some. Property values recovered, rents kept coming in, and those who stayed patient were rewarded.
And we saw the same thing during the COVID-19 pandemic. When mortgage lenders offered a three-month break on payments, many people jumped at the opportunity, even if they didn’t really need it. We didn’t. Why? Because we knew knee-jerk reactions can leave a lasting mark on your file—even if it’s not directly obvious. Being cautious and thinking long-term meant we didn’t have to make decisions we might regret later.
The key is not to get distracted by short-term noise. Markets will go up and down, but if you’re holding onto a solid investment, time will work in your favour. The buy-and-hold strategy works because it gives you the best of both worlds: steady rental income and capital growth over time.
“Time in the market beats timing the market.” — Unknown
My Advice: Plant Your Tree Now
If there’s one thing I’ve learned from both Warren Buffett and my own journey, it’s this: patience pays off. Whether you’re building a stock portfolio or a property empire, the most important thing you can do is plant your tree and let it grow. It won’t happen overnight, but the rewards will come.
You don’t need to rush into anything. Start where you are, think long-term, and make smart decisions. The best part? Once you’ve planted that tree, it will keep giving you shade—aka consistent income—for years to come.
“The best investment you can make is in yourself.” — Warren Buffett
Conclusion: The Long Game Pays Off
Warren Buffett’s success didn’t come from chasing trends or trying to get rich quick—it came from thinking long-term, making smart investments, and sticking to his strategy. And the same holds true for property investment.
Whether you’re just starting out or already have a few properties, remember that long-term thinking is key. Plant your tree, nurture it, and let time do the rest. If you’re ready to get started, download my Property Evaluation Checklist and start making those smart, long-term decisions today.
Better yet, join my community where you’ll receive regular tips, insights, and ongoing support. We’re in this together, and being part of a group of like-minded investors will help you stay on course, even when the market gets rocky. You don’t have to figure it all out on your own—by joining us, you’ll always have access to advice, updates, and guidance to help you stay on track with your long-term goals.
Kelly Lemon
