The property market is constantly evolving, shaped by economic factors, tech advancements, and changing investor goals.
In this ever fluid landscape, staying informed is not just a choice—it’s a necessity.
Whether you’re a seasoned investor managing a growing portfolio or a newcomer eager to make your first purchase, knowledge is your most powerful tool.
Books remain one of the most accessible and valuable resources for property investors.
They offer timeless principles, cutting-edge strategies, and insights from seasoned professionals who have navigated the ups and downs of the market over many years.
And you can get years of valuable experience within a few pages.
This list of the top 15 books for property investors in 2025 covers a wide range of topics—from mastering residential and commercial property investing to scaling portfolios with creative strategies.
Taking into account that most of these books might not apply fully in every market globally, I usually take the following view going into reading international books on property investing:
“IF I LEARN JUST ONE NEW THING I CAN APPLY, THE BOOK WAS WORTH THE INVESTMENT”
Take this view and you’ll be miles ahead of other property investors who take a narrow view on the books they believe will help them.
Section 1: Books on General Property Investing
1. “The Millionaire Real Estate Investor” by Gary Keller
Review:
A must-read for both new and seasoned investors, this book is a comprehensive guide to building wealth through real estate.
Gary Keller, the founder of Keller Williams Realty, combines insights from over 100 millionaire investors to create a blueprint for success.
What You’ll Learn:
- How to think like a millionaire investor and overcome limiting beliefs.
- Proven strategies for identifying, financing, and managing properties.
- Steps to build and scale a profitable property portfolio.
2. Long-Distance Real Estate Investing by David Greene
Review:
David Greene, co-host of the “BiggerPockets Podcast,” provides a practical guide to investing in properties outside your local area.
This book is especially relevant in 2025 as remote work and globalization expand investment opportunities.
What You’ll Learn:
- Techniques for analyzing markets and properties from a distance.
- How to build a trustworthy team of professionals to manage properties remotely.
- Tools and technology to streamline long-distance property management.
3. Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert T. Kiyosaki
Review:
A timeless classic, this book focuses on the mindset shift needed to achieve financial freedom.
While not exclusively about real estate, it emphasizes property investment as a key vehicle for building wealth.
What You’ll Learn:
- The difference between assets and liabilities and why real estate is a true asset.
- The importance of financial education and leveraging money wisely.
- How to adopt a long-term perspective on wealth creation.
4. The ABCs of Real Estate Investing by Ken McElroyÂ
Review:
Ken McElroy, a trusted advisor in the Rich Dad series, provides a step-by-step guide to identifying, buying, and managing investment properties.
His practical advice is ideal for beginners and intermediate investors.
What You’ll Learn:
- How to find high-potential properties and evaluate their profitability.
- Strategies for financing deals and managing tenants effectively.
- Tips for avoiding common pitfalls and maximizing cash flow.
5. The Advanced Guide to Real Estate Investing by Ken McElroyÂ
Review:
This book is a natural follow-up to “The ABCs of Real Estate Investing,” offering advanced strategies for scaling a property portfolio.
McElroy delves into topics like syndications and partnerships, making it a great resource for experienced investors.
What You’ll Learn:
- Techniques for raising capital and working with private investors.
- Advanced property management and optimization strategies.
- Insights into market cycles and how to capitalize on them.
6. Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, Repeat (BRRRR) by David Greene
Review:
This book introduces the BRRRR method, a powerful strategy for rapidly growing a real estate portfolio.
David Greene shares actionable advice based on his personal experience using this method.
What You’ll Learn:
- How to find undervalued properties and renovate them for profit.
- Steps to refinance and pull out equity to fund your next deal.
- Ways to scale your portfolio without constantly injecting new capital.
7. The Employee Millionaire Real Estate Investor by H.J. Chammas
Review:
This book is perfect for working professionals who want to build wealth through real estate without quitting their day jobs.
H.J. Chammas shares his personal journey from employee to millionaire investor, offering actionable steps tailored to those balancing careers and property investing.
What You’ll Learn:
- How to start investing in rental properties while maintaining a full-time job.
- Strategies for financing, managing, and scaling a rental property portfolio.
- Tools for creating passive income streams and achieving financial independence.
Section 2: Books on Commercial Property Investing
Commercial property offers many opportunities for investors looking to diversify their portfolios and achieve higher returns.
From apartment buildings (block of flats) to office spaces and retail centers, commercial properties often provide greater income potential and long-term growth than residential investments.
However, success in this sector requires specialized knowledge and strategies.
In this section, we’ve provided a list of essential books to help you navigate the complexities of commercial property investing.
8. The Complete Guide to Buying and Selling Apartment Buildings by Steve Berges
Review:
This comprehensive guide focuses on the lucrative world of multifamily properties.
Steve Berges combines his personal experience with actionable strategies, making it a valuable resource for anyone looking to dive into apartment building investments.
What You’ll Learn:
- How to identify profitable apartment building opportunities.
- Techniques for financing, managing, and marketing multifamily properties.
- Strategies for selling properties to maximize your returns.
9. Commercial Real Estate Investing for Dummies by Peter Conti and Peter Harris
Review:
Written in the accessible “For Dummies” style, this book simplifies the often complex world of commercial real estate investing.
It’s ideal for beginners who want a clear understanding of the basics and beyond.
What You’ll Learn:
- The different types of commercial properties and how to invest in them.
- How to analyze deals, assess risks, and secure financing.
- Practical tips for negotiating leases and managing tenants.
10. Mastering the Art of Commercial Real Estate Investing by Doug Marshall
Review:
Doug Marshall delivers a thoughtful guide focused on the principles of long-term success in commercial real estate.
His approach emphasizes sound financial planning and strategic decision-making.
What You’ll Learn:
- The key principles of commercial real estate investing.
- How to evaluate deals and ensure financial sustainability.
- Practical advice on building relationships with lenders and partners.
11. The Due Diligence Handbook for Commercial Real Estate by Brian Hennessey
Review:
This book is an essential guide for avoiding costly mistakes in commercial real estate transactions.
Brian Hennessey draws from his extensive experience to provide a detailed roadmap for performing due diligence.
What You’ll Learn:
- Step-by-step guidance for conducting thorough due diligence.
- Tips for identifying potential deal-breakers and mitigating risks.
- How to streamline the due diligence process to save time and money.
12. How to Succeed in Commercial Real Estate by John L. Bowman
Review:
A practical and straightforward book, this title focuses on the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in commercial real estate.
John L. Bowman shares industry insights that are invaluable for both newcomers and seasoned investors.
What You’ll Learn:
- The fundamentals of commercial real estate, from leasing to investment sales.
- How to build relationships with clients, brokers, and other stakeholders.
- Strategies for negotiating deals and closing transactions effectively.
13. Confessions of a Real Estate Entrepreneur by James A. Randel
Review:
This engaging book combines personal anecdotes with practical advice, making it both entertaining and educational.
James Randel shares his journey as a commercial real estate investor, highlighting lessons learned along the way.
What You’ll Learn:
- How to think creatively and find opportunities in unexpected places.
- Tips for negotiating and structuring profitable deals.
- The mindset needed to succeed as a commercial real estate investor.
14. Raising Private Capital by Matt Faircloth
Review:
Matt Faircloth, a seasoned real estate investor, shares his proven strategies for leveraging private funds to grow a real estate business.
Drawing on his experience raising millions of dollars in private capital, Faircloth provides actionable advice on how to attract investors, structure deals, and build lasting relationships.
This book is ideal for investors looking to scale their portfolios without relying solely on traditional financing.
What You’ll Learn:
- How to identify and approach potential private investors.
- Strategies for structuring win-win deals that benefit both parties.
- Tips for maintaining trust and long-term partnerships with investors.
- Practical insights into using private capital to fund various types of real estate deals.
Faircloth’s engaging writing style and real-world examples make this book a practical and inspiring guide for anyone aiming to take their real estate business to the next level.
15. Real Estate Finance and Investments by William Brueggeman and Jeffrey Fisher
Review:
This book is a staple for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of the financial aspects of real estate investing.
Though academically oriented (basically, it’s a textbook. Hence the much higher price compared to other books on this list), it provides practical applications for commercial investors.
What You’ll Learn:
- Advanced concepts in real estate finance, including valuation and cash flow analysis.
- Insights into market cycles and investment decision-making.
- Techniques for structuring deals and managing financial risks.
Bonus Book Review: Investing in Real Estate with No (and Low) Money Down: Creative Strategies for Investing in Real Estate Using Other People’s Money by Brandon Turner
Review:
Brandon Turner, a well-known figure in the real estate investment community and co-host of the “BiggerPockets Podcast,” delivers a game-changing guide for investors looking to build a real estate portfolio without substantial upfront capital.
In this book, Turner outlines creative financing strategies that allow you to leverage other people’s money (OPM) to fund your deals.
It’s a must-read for those who want to overcome the barriers of high down payments and still capitalize on lucrative investment opportunities.
What You’ll Learn:
- Various methods for financing real estate deals with little to no money out of pocket, such as seller financing, lease options, and using private lenders.
- How to structure deals that benefit both you and your investors, ensuring long-term, mutually profitable relationships.
- The psychology behind creative financing and how to negotiate deals that work for everyone involved.
- Real-life examples of how these strategies have been successfully applied in the field.
This book is particularly valuable for new investors who may not have large amounts of capital but want to get started in real estate.
Brandon Turner’s clear, practical advice will empower you to think outside the box and unlock opportunities that you might have otherwise overlooked.
If you’re looking to break into the real estate market with minimal funds, this book will show you how to do it effectively and sustainably.
Conclusion: Top 15 Books Every Property Investor Should Read In 2025
Investing in real estate is one of the most reliable paths to financial freedom, but success requires more than just capital—it demands knowledge, strategy, and continuous learning.
The books featured in this guide provide a wealth of insights from seasoned professionals who have navigated the challenges and opportunities of property investing.
Whether you’re focused on residential properties, exploring the lucrative world of commercial real estate, or looking to master advanced strategies, these titles offer the tools and inspiration you need to succeed.
By incorporating the lessons from these books into your investment journey, you’ll be better equipped to make informed decisions, maximize your returns, and achieve your financial goals.
As the real estate market continues to evolve in 2025, staying ahead of the curve is more important than ever. Let these books be your roadmap to smarter investing, greater confidence, and long-term success in the world of property investment.
Aslam is from Johannesburg, South Africa and graduated with a BComm degree from the University of South Africa and followed that up with a BComm Hons degree in Finance and Investments.
He has spent over 18 years in the financial services sector, with 12.5 years in the commercial property finance arena with 3 of the major banks in the country.
His specialty being deal structuring and finance solutions for commercial property investors and developers across the commercial property sector, including large scale retail developments, high density residential investments , industrial and office property.
Aslam was also a fast food franchise investor for 7 years, is experienced in digital marketing and online lead generation and has owned and managed multiple residential properties.
