Kicking the Property Ladder: Why buying a house makes less sense than renting - and how to invest the money you save in shares, gold, stamps and more(Harriman Instants)

Is property investment all it is cracked up to be? Buying a house has become a byword for financial security; renting is dismissed as a lacklustre alternative to a mortgage and the bounties of ever-rising property prices. But what if it's not true? What if renting represents far better value for money - and the best financial decision you could ever make is NOT buying your own house? Did you know that half of all people living in poverty in Britain today are home-owners? In this compelling and witty exploration of home ownership in 21st century Britain, author and entrepreneur Robin Bennett reveals the startling truths behind the modern property myth beloved of certain newspapers and estate agents - and why far from guaranteeing profit, buying a house might be an unnecessary drain on your financial wellbeing. He then shows what you should do with your money instead - exploring firsthand how to secure your future with effective investment in stocks and shares, gold, stamps and more. Jargon-free, hilarious and wise, 'Kicking the Property Ladder' is a must-read for anyone despairing of ever getting their own house, wondering what it might mean to rent instead, or puzzled by the impossible promises of an ever-expanding price bubble.

Table of Contents:
About the Author 1. Life on the Farm 2. The Property Myth 3. A (Very) Brief History of Property 4. Pinstripes, Suspenders and Global Financial Meltdown 5. "There's Gold in Them Hills" 6. Geeks Bearing Gifts 7. Philately Can Get You Everywhere Conclusions Where to Look Next PS. On Starting Your Own Business

About the Author :
Robin Bennett came to business relatively late. No selling lemonade to neighbours from the front garden at age six, cleaning cars with rags or a 4am paper round. A cosseted existence lasted until he became a penniless graduate, which forced him to start his first company, aged 23. All of which goes to show that entrepreneurs are just as often made, not born. Since 1992 he has started eight separate companies - each for less than £5,000. Six still trade, always in the black and never at the expense of high borrowing or the really important stuff, like family and friends. Robin is also the author of How to Make a Good Living Running Your Own Business, a guide to starting a business on a budget that can provide a healthy salary within a year.