Short answer：Neither property nor shares has a universal long-term win rate. Compare the same period, currency, leverage and cost basis, including rent or dividends rather than prices alone.
Separate asset returns from equity returns
Unleveraged shares and a highly mortgaged property take different risks. Deduct property transaction costs, interest, vacancy and repairs; account for share-related fees, tax and reinvestment. Owner occupation provides housing services, but these are not cash rent received.
Consider access to money
Compare partial sale options, sale delays and exit costs. Several stocks in one industry or flats in one district may remain concentrated. Build around financial goals and tolerable losses rather than a selected historical interval.
Before deciding
- Fix the comparison dates
- Disclose borrowing and reinvestment assumptions
- Compare downside and liquidation scenarios
Sources and method
Sources support the specific rules described. Checklists and hypothetical calculations are editorial explanations, not measured market results or individual approvals.
Revision：Removed unsupported experience, case outcomes and statistics; corrected the topic-specific rules and limitations described above.
Scope：General information only, not personalised legal, tax, immigration, admissions or investment advice.