The Property Couch 578 | How They Built a $125K Rental Income Stream Before Hitting Their Mid-30s – Chat with Ben
Dec 25, 2025
Ben Ruffalo, a chiropractor and property investor, shares his inspiring journey from burnout to building a $125K rental income by his mid-30s. He discusses valuable money lessons from his Egyptian-Australian upbringing and how chasing status led him to reconsider his priorities. Ben highlights the importance of teamwork with his wife, Tanya, their strategic property investments, and the shift to commercial real estate. He encourages listeners to take calculated risks and develop consistent habits for building wealth.
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Early Money Lessons Shaped Priorities
- Ben Ruffalo grew up in a middle-class Egyptian-Australian family where money conversations centered on scarcity and priorities.
- His parents taught him to ask, "Do we want it or do we need it?" which shaped his financial habits early on.
From BMW To Mazda—A Reality Check
- Ben bought a BMW early in his career to signal success but it caused discomfort and high running costs.
- He later sold it for a practical Mazda, prioritising function over status and keeping the car ten years later.
Burnout Reoriented His Purpose
- In 2014 Ben burnt out from chasing money and material success as a chiropractor and nearly left the profession.
- A purpose-driven consult with a patient reignited his mission to serve and he sold the BMW to refocus on meaningful work.
