Why Real Estate Is Better Than Stocks: Insights from Kitsap Peninsula Realtor Bre Enbom

When it comes to building long-term wealth, investors often ask: Is real estate better than stocks? While both have their place in a balanced portfolio, many Kitsap Peninsula investors are discovering that real estate offers distinct advantages—especially in a stable, high-demand market like ours.

According to Bre Enbom, local real estate expert and trusted advisor on the Kitsap Peninsula, “Real estate gives you control, leverage, and tangible value that the stock market simply can’t replicate.” Let’s explore why real estate continues to stand out.

1. Leverage and Control

Real estate allows you to use leverage—meaning you can borrow money to purchase an asset that appreciates over time. For example, a 20% down payment on a $500,000 home gives you control of the entire property. If that property increases in value, your returns are multiplied. This level of stable leverage is far less risky than margin trading stocks.

2. A Tangible, Stable Asset

Unlike stocks, real estate is a physical asset—a home, a rental, or a piece of land. This tangibility offers peace of mind and typically experiences less volatility than the stock market. The Kitsap Peninsula, with its growing population, scenic waterfronts, and proximity to Seattle, continues to enjoy steady demand, which helps support property values even when markets fluctuate elsewhere.

3. Passive Income and Inflation Protection

Owning rental property can create consistent monthly cash flow while acting as an effective hedge against inflation. As prices rise, so do rents and property values, yet your mortgage payment remains fixed—boosting your long-term returns.

4. Tax Benefits and Smart Wealth Building

Real estate comes with unique tax advantages, including deductions for mortgage interest, property taxes, operating expenses, and depreciation. Investors can also use a 1031 exchange to defer capital gains taxes when upgrading properties—something stock investors can’t do.

When Real Estate Shines

While the stock market historically produces higher average annual returns, real estate offers stability, control, and income potential—qualities many Kitsap residents value. With a strong rental market and limited inventory across Bremerton, Silverdale, Poulsbo, and Port Orchard, local properties continue to be a powerful long-term wealth strategy.

Whether you’re ready to buy your first investment property or want to expand your portfolio, Bre Enbom can guide you through Kitsap’s most promising opportunities.

Ready to explore real estate investing on the Kitsap Peninsula? Connect with Bre Enbom, your trusted Kitsap real estate expert, to start building wealth through property ownership today.