Sell Down vs Pay Down: Which Strategy Works?

As investors move closer to retirement, the question shifts from growth to income. In this episode, Ben and Paul break down the three big strategies investors typically face: selling down properties to free up cash, paying down debt to boost income certainty, and the once-popular “debt-servicing debt” approach. They unpack the trade-offs of each strategy — including capital gains tax implications, inheritance opportunities, and why relying on property growth alone can be risky. If you’re thinking about how to turn your portfolio into retirement income, this conversation will give you the clarity to understand your options. *Timestamps:* 00:00 – Transitioning into retirement: why income becomes the focus 00:30 – Sell down strategy explained: freeing up cash for lifestyle or reinvestment 01:03 – Capital gains tax and timing the exit 02:06 – Pay down strategy: why it’s preferred for most Australians 03:22 – Debt-servicing debt: the old “seven properties in seven years” plan 04:38 – Why that model no longer works today 06:17 – The tried-and-true path to peace of mind P.S. This is just a snippet from our Ep 562 | CGT for Couples EXPOSED: The Six-Year Rule, First-Home Myths & Victoria’s Rental Crackdown. For the full scoop, check it out here 👉 https://thepropertycouch.com.au/ep561-exit-strategy-land-plane-paul-glossop/ P.P.S. And feel free to send in your questions here 👉 https://thepropertycouch.com.au/topics/ We would love to answer them on the show! #ThePropertyCouch #RetirementPlanning #PropertyInvesting #WealthStrategy #PassiveIncome