Why More Aussies Are Living Alone And What It Means for the Future
Key takeaways Single-person households are the fastest-growing household type in Australia. This isn’t a short-term shift but a long-term demographic trend reshaping the housing market, economy, and community design. Smaller…
Here’s everything you need to know A to Z
When it’s time to start looking for your next property purchase, you’ll come across a lot of jargon you might not have heard before. Saving for a deposit or house…
How We Got Here—and What’s Next
Key takeaways Homeownership peaked in 1966 at 73%, but has since slipped to 63% by the 2021 Census. While the national drop looks modest, the generational breakdown tells a far…
How a New Generation Is Reshaping Australia’s Housing Future With Simon Kuestenmacher
In today’s show Simon Kuestenmacher and I discuss the significant shift of millennials from urban living to suburban areas. We highlight how millennials are reshaping suburban culture while still valuing…
Are We Losing the Neighbourhood Vibe? Why Changing Social Ties Matter for Property Investors
Key takeaways 72% of Australians believe people are less interested in knowing their neighbours than 20 years ago. 62% admit to living next to someone for over 6 months without…
high premiums but growth remains on the slow track
Key takeaways Homes near Sydney’s Metro stations carry a substantial premium, but growth has generally lagged over both the past 12 and 24 months relative to the Greater Sydney benchmark….
Australia’s Property Boom Has Created More Millionaires – But What Does That Really Mean?
Key takeaways Around 1.9 million Australians hold a net worth above $1.55 million AUD, with numbers expected to grow by another 400,000 by 2028. Real estate makes up 53% of…
Median house prices could soar by up to $154k by the end of 2026 as buyers pile in for spring
Key takeaways Median house prices could soar by up to $154k by end of 2026 as buyers pile in for spring Westpac forecasts suggest Sydney’s median house price could rise…
Here’s where you shouldn’t invest if you want property success
Two-thirds of property investors make the mistake of buying in their own backyard. Now we know that most property investors never achieve the financial freedom they’re looking for. Of the…
Will Young Australians Be Better Off Than Their Parents?
Key takeaways In the past, each generation improved economically: more education, better jobs, homeownership, and longer lives. That upward trajectory is now in question, especially for Millennials and Gen Z….
Construction momentum builds across East Coast
It’s been a dynamic month across Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, with fresh data from Cotality’s August Cordell Construction Monthly revealing a surge in project activity, and some compelling signals for…
Are We Building a Nation of Dependants? Why Australia’s Growing Reliance on Government Income Should Concern Us All
Key takeaways Over 50% of Australian voters now rely on government money as their primary source of income, whether via wages, welfare, subsidies, or aged/disability care. This is a massive…
Dr. Nicola Powell on Why We Need Bold Reform
Australia’s housing market is under pressure from many directions, but one of the most overlooked barriers is stamp duty. Once a relatively modest transaction cost, stamp duty has ballooned into…
Buy Now or Wait? How to Navigate the Property Market as Interest Rates Fall
Key takeaways The RBA is Cautious, You Should be Decisive: Rates are easing, but slowly. The RBA’s data-dependent stance means a return to ultra-low rates isn’t on the cards. Waiting…
Why the housing shortfall is a golden chance for builders and investors
If there’s one industry that promises endless potential today, it’s residential construction and property investment. Australia’s housing market is a mix of challenges and opportunities but there really is no…
The Tradies Supporting Your Strata Manager
With their prominence on the rise across the country, buying a strata unit may be the next step in your property journey – and the fact that strata titles now…
[PODCAST] Australia’s Hottest Winter Property Market in Years – with Dr. Andrew Wilson
This winter has shaped up as the strongest property market we’ve seen in a long time, with strong buyer activity and rising confidence cutting through the usual seasonal slowdown. In…
Home prices reached eighth consecutive month of growth
Key takeaways National home prices rose 0.5% in August, marking the eighth consecutive month of growth and taking home values to a fresh record high. National home prices are up…
Queensland’s productivity wake-up call a golden opportunity
The Queensland Productivity Commission’s Interim Report into construction productivity might not make front-page headlines, but for those of us in the trenches of property development, homebuilding, and investment, it’s a…
Housing values bloom ahead of what is likely to be a very active spring selling season.
Key takeaways Cotality’s Home Value Index rose 0.7% in August — the strongest monthly gain since May 2024 — pushing annual growth to 4.1%. Buyer demand is outpacing supply, with…
4 harsh realities newbie property investors should know
There’s a reason they call property investing “as safe as houses”, right? It’s because generally, buying property – provided you have a clear strategy and set goals – is a…
What the Latest Mortgage Insights Tell Us About Australia’s Property Market
Key takeaways Investors are back in charge. Their confidence in the market signals optimism for growth, but also raises affordability challenges for homebuyers. Homebuyer activity is shifting east. Queensland and…
7 Incontrovertible Truths About Building Wealth
I’ve found that becoming wealthy is not a fluke. I spent five years studying the habits of 233 millionaires — 177 that were self-made — in order to find out…
A Game-Changer for Property Investors
Key takeaways Brisbane’s Olympic bid is a city-building opportunity. The Games are a vehicle to reposition Brisbane alongside Sydney and Melbourne as a global contender, transforming its infrastructure, economy, and…
Why the RBA Won’t Cut Rates in September – But Borrowers Still Have Opportunities
Key takeaways Headline CPI rose to 2.8% in July (up from 1.9% in June), driven mainly by electricity price hikes, delayed rebates in NSW and ACT, and higher holiday travel…
Why 2025 Could Be a Defining Season for Australia’s Property Market
Key takeaways Every year, spring breathes new life into Australia’s property markets. Listings rise +5.9% from winter to spring (on average over 10 years). Sales volumes increase +8.4%, making spring…
It Starts with Where We Live, with Ross Elliott
Today I’m joined by Ross Elliott, a respected urban thinker and commentator, and we discuss something most politicians and planners are ignoring: the danger of concentrating 70% of Australia’s population…
Love or Leverage? How Soaring House Prices Are Trapping Couples Together
Key takeaways Australia’s property market isn’t just about affordability or investment; it’s influencing love, marriage, and family stability. Rising housing costs can trap people in relationships, even unhappy ones, simply…
Are you as good with money as you think you are?
A lot of people say they’re good with money. They say they have a gift for making it. That they love money and that money loves them. This may be…
Top 5 Rope Access Companies in Sydney – 2025 Edition
Key takeaways Sydney’s skyline is famous across the globe – a mix of heritage landmarks, modern towers, and high-rise living by the harbour. Keeping all of that infrastructure safe and…
Unlocking Value in Investment Properties with Greg Hankinson
Have you ever looked at a tired old property and thought, “There’s potential there,” but weren’t quite sure what to do with it? Well, today’s show could be the spark…
Is Capitalism Failing Us? Or Is Australia Still the Land of Opportunity?
Key takeaways Despite living in one of the wealthiest countries, many hardworking Australians are financially struggling. It’s not just numbers — it’s real and lived through rising grocery bills, rents,…
The Brutal Habits Keeping You Broke
I love the Joe Rogan podcast because Rogan cuts through all of the noise with his straight talk and common sense logic. You can learn a lot just from listening…
Understanding Warren Buffett’s Theory on the Ovarian Lottery of Life
Key takeaways Warren Buffett’s theory on the lottery of life is a powerful reminder of the role of luck in shaping our destinies. I suppose it’s easy to feel “extremely…
10 Inspirational Quotes To Start Your Week
Inspirational quotes and motivational quotes have the power to get us through a bad week. Judging by the number of people who read my regular Monday morning dose of motivational…
The Truth About Australia’s Wealthiest
Key takeaways 334,800 High-Net-Worth Individuals (HNWIs) now live in Australia, a 0.5% increase year-on-year, per Capgemini’s 2024 report. They collectively control over AUD $1.6 trillion in assets, with 2,450 “ultra-rich”…
The great mismatch: Smaller households, bigger homes
Key takeaways Most homes don’t match most households: New analysis shows 61% of households are just one or two people, but three- and four-bedroom homes dominate the housing stock. Couples…
Australians Could Slash Their Power Bills by 90% – But Will They?
Key takeaways Households could slash annual energy bills from ~$3,000 to $300 by fully electrifying their homes—installing rooftop solar, electric appliances, electric vehicles (EVs), and improving insulation. That’s a $2,700…
Stamp Duty is Holding Australia Back – Why We Need Bold Reform
Key takeaways Stamp duty is one of the most damaging taxes in Australia, it distorts housing decisions, penalises mobility, and locks people out of home ownership. The burden has skyrocketed:…
[PODCAST] The Housing Time Bomb: Can Australia Keep Up with Its Population Boom?
Imagine inviting thousands of people to a party… but forgetting to organise enough food, chairs, or bathrooms. That’s essentially what Australia is doing by ramping up migration while failing to…
The Housing Revolution That Could Change Gen Z’s Gloomy Outlook
Key takeaways Gen Z is the smallest generation in decades, entering the workforce in a period of low unemployment. Employers are competing for staff, giving young workers bargaining power for…
Why Australia’s Productivity Slump Threatens Wages, Wealth and Property
Key takeaways Productivity growth is the main driver of living standards, wages, and sustainable economic growth. Without improvement, Australia risks declining living standards and fewer opportunities for future generations. Productivity…
[PODCAST] Who pays the most tax in Australia, Plus Clues Behind The News
In today’s Macro Insights Podcast, Ken Raiss and I examine who really pays tax in Australia, and the results may surprise you. We also share what the average wage and…
How to Leave a Lasting Legacy for Your Grandchildren
Key takeaways Passing on wealth is about creating freedom, security, and values for future generations, not just financial gifts. Without a structured plan, much of your generosity can be lost…
How Many Hours Do The Wealthy Work Each Week?
According to my Rich Habits Study, one of the reasons the wealthy accumulated so much wealth was due to the fact that they worked more hours than those who were…
Property Management Has Changed – And Smart Investors Need to Pay Attention
Key takeaways Then vs Now: Previously, property management was mainly about collecting rent and basic maintenance. In 2025, it’s a multifaceted role combining technology, strategy, compliance, and relationship management. Modern…
Another 12 Inspiring Quotes To Start Your Week
It’s Monday again so here’s another collection of the 12 inspiring quotes to help get your week off to a good start: 1. “Twenty years from now you will be…
Ask yourself, who will buy my property?
Who will buy my property? That’s the question you should be asking yourself if you want to create longer-term wealth through property investing. Sure, property markets in many parts of…
Money is an empty victory
What drives you to build wealth? If I deposited $10 million in your bank account today, what would you do differently tomorrow? Do you think money will solve any (or…
Life Insurance Supporting Property Investors On The Path To Financial Success
In the world of property investment, investors often focus on market trends, yield, and capital growth. Although these are critical to success, one vital tool is all too frequently overlooked:…
RBA Rate Cuts Push Borrowing Power, and Property Prices Higher
Key takeaways The average new owner-occupier loan size in Australia has hit a record $678,000, up $18,000 in just three months, equivalent to an extra $198 a day in borrowing…
Profit Still the Norm, but Some Markets Lagging
Key takeaways 97% of house resales and 88% of unit resales in the first half of 2025 were profitable, the highest levels for houses in nearly two decades. Houses remain…
What First Home Buyers Are Really Facing in 2025 With Sarah Megginson
What happens when the Great Australian Dream becomes a financial nightmare? In 2025, buying your first home in Australia has become less of a rite of passage and more of…
Who Will Replace the Baby Boomers? Australia’s Workforce Crossroads and the Role of Smarter Migration
Key takeaways Over the next decade, millions of baby boomers (born 1946–1964) will retire, taking with them decades of skills, leadership, and entrepreneurial know‑how. This is more than just replacing…
10 lessons you can learn from the rich and successful
Have you ever looked at the AFR Rich List or reports on the richest people in the world and wondered what they were doing that you’re not? Well…they’re probably doing…
Rates finally fall, but stretched affordability to keep housing market in check
Key takeaways This is the third cut in the current easing cycle, in what was always expected to be cautious and gradual. The move follows a surprise July ‘hold’ decision,…
Rich people are just better decision-makers
Choices and decisions can make or break a business, career or relationship. One or two bad decisions can and often are forgiven. But those who frequently make poor choices and…
More approvals, more problems? Rethinking the housing pipeline
Key takeaways Approvals are not the problem; delivery is. With 219,000 homes already under construction and completion times ballooning, the real bottleneck lies in the build phase, not planning reform….
[PODCAST] Why Property Investors Achieve Financial Freedom — and Most Others Don’t – with Brett Warren
Have you ever wondered why some people seem to effortlessly build wealth through real estate while others spend their entire lives working hard, only to end up financially stuck? The…
Will Young Australians Be Better Off Than Their Parents? Delay, Decline or Just Different?
Key takeaways For much of the 20th century, there was a strong belief: each generation would be better off than the last. That contract—better financial prospects, easier homeownership, earlier retirement—is…
[Podcast] Property Prices Hit New Highs – Is This the Start of Another Boom? With Dr. Nicola Powell
Have you noticed how Australia’s property market seems to have roared back to life recently? After a sluggish 2024, Domain’s latest House Price Report shows all eight capital cities recorded…
It’s Still a Landlord’s Market – And Has Been for Years
Key takeaways Despite media noise about easing rental conditions, the data clearly shows a persistent and severe rental shortage. While there’s been a lot of noise lately about rental growth…
Why you shouldn’t aim for a work-life balance
Newspapers and magazines are full of stories about work-life balance — why it’s important, how to achieve it, and why so many people struggle to maintain it. It’s a relatively new…
Resilient rents and low vacancies keep east coast investment prospects strong
As we move through the cooler months, Australia’s rental market is showing signs of seasonal rebalancing – but don’t mistake that for relief. In Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, vacancy rates…
The Ant Philosophy | Jim Rohn
Over the years I’ve been teaching children about a simple but powerful concept – the ant philosophy. I think everybody should study ants. They have an amazing four-part philosophy. Here is the…
Home prices reached a record high
Key takeaways National home prices hit a new record high of $827,000 in July, following a rise of 0.3% over the month and 4.9% over the year. Regional areas have…
20 Smart quotes from Warren Buffet
Why not learn from the best? There’s a reason Warren Buffett is one of the most frequently quoted investors around. He’s s a true genius as he is able to…
A Journey Through the Investor’s Mind
Key takeaways Have you ever wondered what leads to the ups and downs of our property cycle? Well…the markets are not just driven by numbers and data, but largely by…
Values rise across every capital as growth cycle warms up
Key takeaways National dwelling values rose by 0.6% in July, with the rate of growth holding firm relative to the prior two months. Every capital city recorded a rise in…
Why Smart Investors Skip the Hotspot Chase
Key takeaways Many of the new buyers’ agents promote so-called “undiscovered” hotspots, urging investors to jump in quickly, ride a price wave, and sell at the peak. But this short-term…
[Podcast] Property Prices Keep Rising – And There’s More to Come – with Dr. Andrew Wilson
Australia’s housing markets just keep marching forward – and the latest numbers are in! Today I’m joined by Dr. Andrew Wilson, Chief Economist of My Housing Market, to break down…
The Practical Must-Haves for Running a Home-Based Childcare Service
Key takeaways A well-prepared space supports both safety and supervision in a home setting Paperwork and planning build trust and keep your service compliant Consistent routines help children thrive and…
Is the RBA About to Cut Rates Again? The CPI Numbers Say Yes
Key takeaways Headline CPI for the June quarter dropped to 2.1% annually, down from 2.4%. Trimmed mean inflation (the RBA’s preferred measure) is now 2.7%, also falling from 2.9%. This…
Double Act or Double Trouble? The Truth About Couple-Run Businesses
Key takeaways Around 70% of Aussie businesses are family owned, and 40% of those are run by couples. That means hundreds of thousands of Australians are navigating both personal and…
How 6 famous billionaires failed before succeeding [Infographic]
“Will I ever succeed?” That’s a question that we all have. No matter how far we’ve come, there’s always more to learn, more to invest, and more to achieve. Why…
Why the RBA’s Job is Only Going to Get Harder
Key takeaways The RBA has pulled off a rare feat: inflation in the 2-3% band while keeping unemployment at 4.1%. Governor Michele Bullock called it a “remarkable” achievement, and she’s…
How do you balance ambition with happiness?
When you’re overly focused on the future and always want to accomplish more, it’s very difficult to be happy today. After all, it is never enough. I see many people…
What They Reveal About Our Broken Housing System
Key takeaways Nearly 200 Australian suburbs saw median property prices rise by more than $500/day between May 2020 and May 2025. 19 suburbs surpassed $1,000/day, with top performers like Wollstonecraft…
Families pay six-figure premiums to secure homes in top public school catchment zones
Key takeaways Families are paying up to $1.3 million more for houses inside sought-after public school catchments in Sydney and Melbourne – but that does not always equate to stronger…
The Wealth Divide is Growing and Property is the Line in the Sand
Key takeaways Income growth has stagnated, while asset values—particularly property—have surged. This has created a tilted playing field, favouring those who already own property or other appreciating assets. The median…
Factors to consider when setting a property budget
Setting the right budget for a property purchase, be it a home or investment, is a very important financial decision. If your budget is too conservative, you risk missing out…
The Real State of Australia’s Property Market – 7 Charts That Matter
Key takeaways The Australian housing market remains far more complicated than many portray it to be. The Australian housing cycle is turning up again; falling interest rates are the key…
The Hidden Costs of Buying Property (and How to Plan for Them)
There’s no greater financial milestone than signing a contract to own a property that you can call your own. While you may be tempted to take out the celebratory champagne…
The issue with AI in property prediction
Some data providers are claiming that data driven AI programs enable them to predict the future of property markets with great accuracy, but in my mind there are huge risks…
Investment property ownership – The facts, not the noise
There is a lot of noise being bantered about regarding property investment of late. No surprises here given the recent federal election result, the tightness of the countries rental market…
Rental growth slows despite tight supply
Key takeaways National rental values saw their lowest second quarter increase since 2020 in the three months to June – up by 1.3%. Over the past five years, rents have…
The 9 Big Forces Driving Australia’s Property Market in 2025, with Brett Warren
If you’re interested in property you’ve probably noticed it’s a confusing time out there . Interest rates are falling, but there are mixed messages about how many rate cuts we…
What Will Life Look Like in 100 Years?
Key takeaways Australia has transformed beyond recognition in the last 100 years. The next 100 will be even more dramatic. The key message: We are already building the future through…
Why Property Investment Isn’t Just About the Property
Key takeaways Property investment success relies heavily on strategy, timing, and financial planning, not just the asset itself. Professional guidance adds insight, structure, and local knowledge that can dramatically improve…
Should I make a pre-auction offer?
Buying property at auction isn’t for the faint-hearted. The high stakes, the public spectacle, the adrenaline—it’s an experience many buyers would prefer to avoid if they can. So, should you…
[PODCAST] Brace Yourself: What’s ahead for property and our economy – the clues behind the news
In this Macro Insights Podcast, Ken Raiss and I examine the big picture and share our perspective on how this may impact our housing markets in Australia, as well as…
What It Means for Property Investors, Renters & the Future of Housing
Key takeaways From Jan 1, 2027: All new homes and most new commercial buildings in Victoria must be built fully electric — no new gas connections for heating, hot water,…
Why Property Investors Don’t Think Rationally — And How Understanding Your Biases Can Make You a Better Investor
Key takeaways Most investors are not rational — their decisions are driven by fear, emotion, and unconscious biases. Emotion clouds judgment — and in property, where the stakes are high,…
How bad does a property need to be to warrant selling it?
If you own a property that you suspect may not be investment-grade, how do you work out if it is worth selling and replacing it with a better-quality property? Risks…
Are our property markets really just a Ponzi Scheme?
Key takeaways While there are frustrations, particularly among younger Australians, who liken the housing market to a Ponzi scheme, this analogy oversimplifies complex market dynamics. A Ponzi scheme is a…
The Bank of Mum and Dad: Fueling the Dream or Risking Retirement?
We often talk about Australia’s housing affordability crisis, but one silent force shaping the market is the Bank of Mum and Dad, now one of the country’s largest “lenders,” unofficially…
The Digital Tools Fueling Property Success Today
In today’s competitive real estate landscape, success isn’t just about having the best listings or the widest network – it’s about how efficiently and intelligently agents move prospects from interest…
Why a surprise jump in unemployment isn’t as bad as it sounds
New figures show Australia’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate unexpectedly rose to 4.3% – its highest level since late 2021 – in June this year, up from 4.1% in May. While…
Exploring 5-Bedroom Display Homes in Melbourne: Spacious Living with Arden Homes Explore 5-Bedroom Display Homes in Melbourne
As families grow, work evolves, and lifestyle needs change, extra bedrooms become a necessity rather than a luxury. A five-bedroom home opens the door to multi-generational living, dedicated workspaces, guest…
Treasury warns the government it may not balance the budget or meet its housing targets
In the runup to each election, federal treasury produces a “blue book” and a “red book”, with advice tailored to the priorities of the two alternative governments. One of these…
Baby Boomers Sitting on Property Goldmines – But Why Aren’t They Cashing In?
Key takeaways Despite expectations that older Australians will downsize as they age, most are staying put. Emotional attachment to the family home—filled with decades of memories—makes it hard to leave….
Richard Branson’s 10 Steps on how to achieve your goals
Sir Richard Charles Nicholas Branson is an English business magnate, investor and philanthropist. He founded the Virgin Group, which controls more than 400 companies. Branson has developed a reputation for…
What to Check Before Selling Your House for Cash
Selling a house for cash can feel like a dream come true—fast closings, no repairs, fewer headaches. But like any real estate transaction, it’s not something you should rush into…
Here’s how to survive difficult property markets
I hate to repeat what everyone else is saying, but clearly, we are living in challenging times. Despite all the bad news in the media, with economic problems, geopolitical problems,…
Why you can’t be successful on your own
I’ve worked with quite a few self-made men and women over the years. These are the people who have impressed me with their level-headed approach to wealth and achieving success….
Why Australians Have Struggled to Accumulate Wealth and What to Do About It
Key takeaways Despite living in a prosperous nation, the majority of Australians fail to build and retain genuine wealth. This isn’t because of a lack of ambition, effort, or intelligence…
Brisbane is now a million-dollar house market: here’s how it happened
Key takeaways Brisbane is now the second-most expensive capital city market after Sydney. Brisbane house values have surged 76% since 2020, coinciding with the early stages of the COVID-era housing…
A Big Win for Tenants or Just Another Band-Aid Solution?
Key takeaways From October 2025, it will be illegal in Victoria for landlords or agents to encourage tenants to offer more than the advertised rental price. The government aims to…
Why Should You Avoid Buying a House on a Main Road?
All investors know that location is one of the most critical components of any successful property investment. When long-term capital growth is the sought-after reward at the end of the real…
Overinvesting puts retirement at risk
A Goldilocks investment strategy means that you are making the most of your financial opportunities without overdoing it and taking unnecessary risks. That is, your level of investing is exactly…
Six things successful people never do…. Twice
There is nothing wrong with making a mistake. We all stumble and fall now and again, yet the property market is full of people who’ve inched their way to the…
Why ‘Safe’ Investments Might Destroy Your Retirement Dreams
You’ve finally done it. You’ve clocked off. After decades of working hard, saving diligently, and building a solid property portfolio, you’ve reached retirement. It’s a milestone worth celebrating. There’s relief,…
Should You Renovate or Relocate? A Homeowner’s Guide to Deciding
Deciding whether to renovate your current home or pack up and move is one of those big life questions many of us face. Both options carry emotional weight, financial stakes,…
3 types of people you must avoid if you want to become rich and successful
One of the most important decisions we make in life is who we choose to be around. In fact, there is an old proverb that reads, “Show me your friends…
Why Australia’s Gender Wealth Gap Still Matters (And What We Can Do About It)
Key takeaways Australian women hold 40% less net wealth than men and retire with significantly smaller super balances. The wealth gap starts early, with girls receiving less pocket money and…
How Demographics Are Quietly Rewriting the Rules of Child Raising
Key takeaways Today’s intense parenting styles, often labelled as “helicopter parenting,” aren’t just cultural fads or generational quirks. They’re rooted in deeper societal and demographic changes—how we live, work, and…
August rate cut to further boost home values, but with limits
Key takeaways The RBA kept the cash rate at 3.85% in July, surprising many, but not completely outside expectations. This pause aligns with a “once-a-quarter cut” rhythm, likely giving the…
[PODCAST] Domain’s Bold Property Forecasts for the Year Ahead – with Dr. Nicola Powell
The Australian property market has been anything but predictable in recent years – booms, corrections, interest rate hikes, and a housing supply crisis have kept everyone on their toes. But…
Housing ahead – What to expect in fiscal 2026
Key takeaways Fiscal 2026 looks like a mature, fundamentals-driven market phase. The “boom” phase is over, but solid, location-driven growth remains. Biggest threats are external (global shock, policy misstep) or…
4 reasons why renovation flips often flop
It happens every year. The TV show “The Block” inspires a new wave of investors keen to get involved in renovating and “flipping’ properties. Just to make things clear “flipping”…
The 9 Biggest Influences on Our Property Markets in 2025 and Beyond
Key takeaways Property markets are powered by a complex web of economic levers, social trends, and psychological triggers. Migration turbocharges demand. Think like a future buyer, where will families and…
Slowing migration puts the brakes on Australia’s population growth – Dec 2024 population
The latest population numbers to December 2024 are out for Australia, States and Territories. Australia’s population is still growing strongly, but the very high overseas migration we saw in 2022-23…
Did the Baby Boomers Really Have It Easier in Property?
Key takeaways Boomers bought homes at 3–4 times their annual income, versus today’s 9+ times in major cities. Millennials and Gen Z typically start saving for property later due to…
How much wealth is enough?
My personal philosophy on wealth building is simple: invest slightly more than necessary to achieve my financial and lifestyle goals comfortably, but no more than that! None of us knows…
New Survey Reveals a Quiet Shift in Aussie Homeownership
Key takeaways Westpac’s latest Housing Pulse shows a quiet shift: Aussies are warming back up to homeownership. While affordability concerns and rate pressures persist, sentiment among owner-occupiers is improving. There’s…
Seven auction sins
I know that many property investors are a little intimidated by the thought of bidding for a property at auction. I can understand why because auctions are an emotional and…
Property investment company: reduce CGT by 28%!
Typically, accountants tend to advise against using a private company structure to hold geared property investments. However, investors shouldn’t automatically dismiss this approach, as it can provide substantial capital gains…
Making an Offer Before Auction
Let me share a little secret with you… Many of the best property deals never make it to auction day. They’re snapped up quietly beforehand by savvy buyers who know…
What the Numbers Are Really Telling Us
Key takeaways After World War II, homeownership became central to the Australian identity, driven by government policy, migration, and the availability of affordable land. Homeownership peaked at 73% in 1966,…
10 Benefits of Self Managed Super Fund (SMSF) in Australia
There are more than 600,000 self-managed super funds (SMSFs) in Australia controlling more than $700 billion – so on average each fund holds more than $1.2 million – and many…
How Global Trade Trends Influence Industrial Property Values in Australia
Few sectors feel the ripples of global trade as directly as industrial real estate. Investors in Australia have learned that shifts in shipping routes, trade agreements, and international demand can…
[PODCAST] 15 Years of Your Mortgage Goes to the Government — What That Means for Australia’s Housing Crisis with Tim Reardon
Did you know that for the first 15 years of your mortgage, you’re working mostly for the taxman, not your future wealth? It’s a startling claim, but one backed by…
There’s More to Property Negotiation Than You Think
Key takeaways Most buyers mistakenly believe negotiation is simply about haggling over dollars. In reality, it’s a strategic process with psychological depth, multiple moving parts, and subtle leverage points. The…
When will the age pension be abolished?
It’s been nearly 12 years since I wrote this blog about the age pension and when it might be changed or abolished. A lot has happened since that time, and we…
The Hidden Winners in Australia’s Property Market Boom – And What This Means for You
Key takeaways The Australian Property Institute (API) has just released its inaugural Valuation Report, and it turns that long-held belief on its head. While housing markets have seen strong growth,…
10 Warren Buffett Quotes for Better Investing
Warren Buffett is obviously incredibly successful. He’s probably the most successful investor of modern times, having built his wealth long-term to over US $136 billion, making him one of the…
Mortgage arrears remain contained despite high rates and cost of living pressures
Key takeaways Despite high interest rates and cost-of-living pressures, only 1.68% of Australian home loans are in arrears, well below pandemic-era peaks and international benchmarks. Tighter serviceability buffers, low levels…
5 lessons property investors can learn from farmers
How often have you thought to yourself, if only I had more money, life would be that much simpler? Do you feel like you never have enough? Are you constantly…
What It Means for Property Investors as Million-Dollar Suburbs Surge Nationwide
Key takeaways Million-dollar-plus medians are becoming the norm in capitals and key regional centres. This means affordability pressures and a widening wealth gap is making it harder for first-home buyers…
What’s Driving Their Decisions in 2025?
Key takeaways Despite affordability issues, rising interest rates, and fierce competition, first home buyers remain very active in our housing markets. Their motivation is largely driven by fear of missing…
What It Really Means for Investors – And Why Melbourne’s Moment Is Coming
Key takeaways Perth’s median home value ($787,000) has overtaken Melbourne’s ($782,000) for the first time in over a decade, according to the PropTrack May 2025 Home Price Index. The headline…
It’s all about gearing, not property
Key takeaways Often, people have trouble deciding whether they should invest in property or shares. Instead, I propose that they first consider whether they should borrow to invest or not….
Life Begins at 40? Why Midlife Could Be the Most Fulfilling Chapter Yet
Key takeaways The saying “life begins at 40” is comforting, but today’s reality is more nuanced. For many Australians, midlife marks a true turning point, a phase where priorities shift…
[PODCAST] Boomers Had It Easier and Took All the Good Properties, With Simon Kuestenmacher
If you’ve ever felt like you’re playing a game of property monopoly in Australia, but someone else got to pass “Go” decades before you and now owns half the board,…
How the 1980s Property Boom Created a Wealth Divide That Still Shapes Melbourne Today
Key takeaways Purchasing property in inner Melbourne suburbs like Fitzroy, Carlton or Northcote in the early 1980s turned out to be a gateway to multi-generational wealth. These areas, once working-class,…
10 things extraordinary people say every day
Want to make a huge difference in someone’s life? According to Inc.com, here are things you should say every day to your employees, colleagues, family members, friends, and everyone you…
How Plumbing Systems Impact Property Value in Australia
When considering property value in Australia, location, size, and infrastructure of the property will often be front and centre. While everyone appreciates having water and sanitation, plumbing systems are usually…
Could 10-Year Interest-Only Loans Be the Lifeline Property Investors Need?
Key takeaways When a lender comes out offering a 10-year interest-only (IO) home loan, it naturally raises a few eyebrows, and some important strategic questions. A 10-year IO loan isn’t…
Governments policies are driving residential property prices out of reach
Key takeaways The dream of home ownership , or even just affordable renting, is slipping further out of reach. The issue isn’t simply population growth or greedy developers. The real…
Australia’s Population Just Grew by 445,000 – Here’s What That Means for Property Investors
Key takeaways Australia’s population grew by 445,800 people in 2024, bringing the total to 27.4 million. Net overseas migration made up 76% of the growth (340,800 people), while natural increase…
The Art Of War for Property Investors
What if I told you there’s a book that’s been on the best-seller list for close to 2,000 years? It’s been translated into virtually every language, read by everyone from…
When to Hire Removalist Services During a Property Flip
Flipping a property means working on a tight schedule. You must know when to hire removalist services to avoid delays and extra costs. In this article, we discuss the key…
You only need to be a little bit better than the competition
Those with a slight edge own the world. As I discovered from my Rich Habits research, those who possess some slight edge, some unique niche they’ve cultivated over many years,…
A New Chapter of Growth, Balance, and Challenge
Key takeaways Property prices across Australia’s capitals are forecast to rising over the next year by Domain, but at a slower, steadier pace than previous booms. Combined capital city house…
[PODCAST] Taxed on Money You Never Made? Why This Super Change Should Scare Every Investor – With Ken Raiss
Today, I want to talk about something that’s really flying under the radar—but it shouldn’t be. Imagine being taxed on money you haven’t actually earned. Not on rent you’ve received,…
Migration Isn’t Just an Economic Story—It’s a Freedom Story
Key takeaways Migration reflects human ambition, courage, and hope, not merely bureaucracy or border policy. As Simon Kuestenmacher said: “Migration is the best indicator of human freedom.” It signals where…
True success is about overcoming adversity
A lot of people think that success is an event. One magical, transformational event. She or he was an overnight success. We’ve all read crap like that in the media…
Why Energy-Efficient Homes Are Australia’s Hottest Property Trend
Key takeaways We’re experiencing a structural shift in the Australian property market—not just a passing trend. Energy-efficient homes have moved from being an ethical or fringe choice to a mainstream…
[PODCAST] Why More Property Investors Are Getting into Small Developments – Greg Hankinson
Have you ever wondered if property development could be your next big wealth accelerator? You’ve probably heard the success stories – investors who’ve turned modest sites into multimillion-dollar assets by…
The #1 Regret Property Sellers Have — And How You Can Avoid It
We often talk about the challenges buyers face — from securing finance to entering a competitive market. But selling a property? That comes with its own set of emotional landmines….
Buyers Falling Nearly $1 Million Short in Top Suburbs
Key takeaways Melbourne’s property market is increasingly split: *Inner-city, blue-chip suburbs like Boroondara and Stonnington-West are pricing out many buyers. *In these areas, the gap between buyer budgets and asking…
Here’s why Gen-X need to start thinking about retirement
Key takeaways Generation X, born between 1964 and 1981, is often referred to as Australia’s forgotten middle child. They are homeowners looking to upgrade their property while maintaining a young…
Inspirational quotes by Warren Buffett
Warren Edward Buffett is an investment guru and one of the richest and most respected businessmen in the world. Here are some of his quotes: 1. If you don’t find…
Brisbane’s Property Market Is Booming—But Buyers Are Being Left Behind
Key takeaways Brisbane’s house prices are rising faster than buyer budgets, especially in inner suburbs. Within 10km of the CBD, buyers are searching at around $1.1 million, but listings are…
How you see the world has a significant effect on your success
There are, broadly speaking, two ways to see the world and these have a great influence on how successful you become. The first is what psychologists call the “external locus…
The Right Property for This Stage?
Key takeaways With inflation now under control and interest rates likely to drop another two through or even four times over the next year, Australia’s real estate markets are moving…
Warren Buffet’s 3 Step Strategy for Success
One day Warren Buffet was sitting in the cockpit of his plane with his pilot, Mike Flint. They were having a conversation. Flint asked Buffet what it takes to succeed. Buffet…
The Property Investor’s Secret Weapon, with Brett Warren
Imagine this… You’ve got a strong property portfolio, you’re working hard, and the market is looking good. Then – boom – life throws you a curveball. Maybe it’s a job…
Buying an Investment Property in Australia (Step-by-Step)
Are you an expat considering buying an investment property in Australia? Well… you’re not alone. Since the pandemic lockdowns eased (remember those?) and our international and domestic borders reopened there…
How Millennials Are Reinventing the Great Australian Dream
Key takeaways Once accused of abandoning suburbia, millennials are now embracing it — just on a later timeline. They delayed life milestones like parenthood, which pushed back traditional housing moves….
How big is your home?
Aussies like their space. Always have. In fact, according to the latest data from World Population Review, Australia ranks number one in the world when it comes to average house…
7 tax tips for the end of the financial year
Smart property investors use all the legal tax rules to minimize their cash flow leakage and maximise their deductions. The government encourages property investors to provide accommodation for those who…
[PODCAST] What the rich won’t tell you. The truth behind building massive wealth
While most of us want to become rich and successful, it’s really not as easy as many suggest on social media. In today’s show Tom Corley and I explain why…
What Australia’s Top Demolition Suburbs Are Telling Us About the Next Phase of the Property Cycle
Key takeaways Gentrification is a powerful force in our property markets. Knockdown-rebuild activity often precedes gentrification and capital growth, offering upside for early movers. High demolition activity often occurs in…
177 Self-Made Millionaires Share Habits They Learned From Their Parents
Why is there only a small percentage of rich people? Why are so many people poor? The experts are quick to point the finger of blame at a variety of…
Melbourne’s Population is Booming—Here’s What That Means for Property Investors
Key takeaways Melbourne is on track to hit 9 million people by 2050, overtaking Sydney and becoming Australia’s largest city. This growth will demand 1.6 million new homes, 1.5 million…
What’s Really Holding You Back? (Hint: It’s Not the Market)
Let me share something personal with you… I almost failed English in school. That’s not an exaggeration—it’s the truth. And for years, I told myself a story:“I’m not a writer.”“I’m…
What makes an “investment grade” property?
Key takeaways There are 11 million dwellings in Australia with a total value of over $111trillion, but not all properties make good investments. And what makes an investment grade property…
7 money lessons in 7 minutes
Let’s face it — managing money isn’t always intuitive. But the good news is, it doesn’t have to be complicated either. These seven simple yet powerful money lessons can shift…
Don’t base decisions on property data!
Key takeaways Property data often lacks the same level of reliability as share market data, so it’s important to combine data analysis with local geographical expertise. Suburb data can be…
Buying a Home Now Takes 8 Years’ Salary — Here’s What That Really Means (and What Smart Investors Should Do About It)
Key takeaways According to AHURI, it now takes 8 years of average full-time earnings to afford the typical Australian home. Sydney leads the unaffordability pack: 10.2 years of gross salary…
Why the Government’s Super Tax on Unrealised Gains Should Alarm Every Australian Investor
Key takeaways The federal government proposes taxing unrealised capital gains in super accounts over $3 million at 30%, doubling the current 15% tax. This means being taxed on asset value…
Are You an Anchor? Do you have these Poor Habits?
Key takeaways We are our own worst enemy. Our anchors drag us down and everyone around us. Those anchors act like neon billboard signs that tell others: “I am an…
Why It’s Time to Sync Immigration with Housing Strategy
Key takeaways We’re welcoming record migration—446,000 people last year alone—without planning for where they’ll live, work, or study. This disconnect is fuelling an engineered housing and infrastructure crisis, not just…
Nine powerful beliefs of the mega successful
Success is ultimately based on action but your beliefs determine your actions. And the big secret of the mega-successful for getting ahead is what they believe – full stop. Many…
What 9 Million People by 2050 Means for Property Investors – With Brett Warren
Imagine a Melbourne the size of New York City. Yes, really.That’s the trajectory we’re on. By 2050, Melbourne’s population is projected to swell to 9 million people, making it not…
10 Reasons Most People Will Never Become Rich
Reason #1: Uncertain how to become rich In my five-year Rich Habits Study/Research, I learned something profound: There are 4 very specific paths to accumulating wealth: Saver/Investor Path – Save 20%…
How Property Taxes Inflate the Cost of New Housing
Key takeaways Buyers assume their mortgage repayments go toward building equity. In reality, up to the first 15 years of repayments on a typical new build mostly cover government-imposed taxes…
If You Change Yourself, You Can Change Your Life
You cannot change the circumstances. But you can get stronger, wiser, better. Life is about constant, predictable patterns of change, and the only constant factor will be our feelings and…
Why Spreading Your Property Bets is a Winning Strategy
Most investors think diversification is about having lots of properties. But here’s the truth: diversification isn’t about how many properties you own, it’s about what kind you own, where you…
The 11 Property Buying Tips to Overcome Analysis Paralysis
It’s common for many buyers and property investors to experience analysis paralysis when it comes to buying a property. After all, it’s a complex decision and one that has a…
Is This the Beginning of the Great Investor Exodus from Victoria?
Key takeaways For the first time since the Residential Tenancies Bond Authority began tracking data (over 20 years ago), more rental bonds are being refunded than lodged. More properties are…
Victoria’s planning reforms could help solve the housing crisis. But they are under threat
The federal election campaign was dominated by the housing crisis. But the real power to solve it rests with the states. In Victoria, reforms are underway that promise a bigger…
Want to Get Rich with Property? Here’s What Most Investors Get Wrong!
If you bought your home 20 years ago and didn’t check its value until today, you might be stunned. In all likelihood, you’d find it had doubled in value, then…
Your Greatest Asset Isn’t Property — It’s Perspective
Key takeaways You’ve already beaten the odds — your existence is a 1 in 400 trillion miracle. Being born in Australia gives you privileges many in the world can only…
most important property investing golden rule
Key takeaways There is one property investing golden rule that is more important than everything else. The golden rule is that the quality of the property you invest in will determine your long-term investment…
[PODCAST] The Housing Shortage No One’s Fixing (But Everyone’s Complaining About)
Interest rates are falling again. After years of rate hikes, mortgage stress, and a cooling economy, the RBA has now dropped interest rates for the second time this cycle and…
Sea Change, Suburbia and Survival: Australia’s New Demographic Divide
Key takeaways Australia’s population has grown by 3.7 million over the last decade—but growth is heavily concentrated in just five cities: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide. 80% of this…
How Bedroom Upgrades Can Maximise ROI on Renovations
When it comes to property renovations, most investors and homeowners immediately think of kitchens and bathrooms as the key areas for return on investment. However, there’s a compelling case for…
Rentvesting vs Home Ownership: A Strategic Comparison
Rentvesting has become an increasingly popular strategy for wealth creation, especially as a response to the challenges of home ownership in major Australian capital cities. This approach involves renting where…
