1 JUL 2024 · Got a question for the trio? https://forms.zohopublic.com/propertyplanningaustralia/form/GotaquestionforthePropertyTrio/formperma/zYCQAxzE_24CVlDafP1ozyzwtmB-8m1iCNtCTgDvHXM Rentvesting is not for everyone, but many people do not even consider it, which may be to the detriment of their finances or lifestyle.  Maintaining an open mind to rentvesting and exploring it’s potential will provide you with greater clarity on your pathway forward, whether you take that path or cross it off as an option.  Dave explains what rentvesting is, and why it's becoming a popular strategy among first-time buyers. From desireable rental locations to growing wealth, there are plenty of reasons why some choose to adopt this strategy.  Mike touches on the key benefits and he highlights his own rentvesting benefits that he's currently experiencing. Cate covers off some of the reasons why rentvesting is more affordable in capital cities, particularly the lower-rental-yielding cities such as Melbourne and Sydney.  Dave shares a real-time example in Melbourne's leafy Hawthorn East. He contrasts a mortgage versus a rental property for a make-believe couple and the cashflow differentials are quite a surprise! For a first home buyer versus a renter, the difference in monthly cost is more than three times.  Was buying always this difficult? Cate dares to ask the question and Dave steps our listeners through the last forty years. But Cate sheds light on the cost of property on the opposite side of town. How do these locations compare, and what is the multiple of the average annual wage these days? Mike explains why it's so difficult to get into highly sought-after locations, but he also explains why the number of rentvestors is so limited. And there are quite a few reasons!  But how short a tenure is too short for a rentvestor? Tune in to find out.... . ... and our gold nuggets!  Dave Johnston's gold nugget: Carefully consider your own personal situation and goals. Rentvesting can be great, but it's not for everyone. It only makes sense that your property decisions should be informed by your over-arching property strategy. And how will your next purchase impact your future purchases? This is a very important question. Mike Mortlock's gold nugget: Mike uses a car analogy. Selecting the right car for the right track is critical. "Asking the place where you want to live to be the investment as well, is sub-optimal for property success."  Cate Bakos's gold nugget: Cate reminisces about a successful real life client scenario that was based on a well-carved out strategy.  Show Notes: https://www.propertytrio.com.au/2024/07/01/rentvesting/

24 JUN 2024 · Got a question for the trio? https://forms.zohopublic.com/propertyplanningaustralia/form/GotaquestionforthePropertyTrio/formperma/zYCQAxzE_24CVlDafP1ozyzwtmB-8m1iCNtCTgDvHXM Helping versus hindering our children's financial futures... it's all about mindset! Dave hosts today's episode and the Trio enjoy sharing their thoughts about the various ways we can help our children get a foot on the property ladder. First homebuyer participation is up a little bit when contrasted against recent years. Dave runs through some of the key reasons that could be contributing to this increased level.  First home buyer activity bounced up with targeted government incentives during GFC recovery and COVID recovery. Both also had record low interest rates. “The series shows only two substantial spikes in first home buyer loans between 2008-09 and 2020-21. These can largely be explained by temporary government incentives for housing purchases. There was a temporary boost to the first home owner grant introduced around the GFC, and a temporary HomeBuilder grant introduced around the onset of the pandemic (which was not specifically targeted at first home buyers, but could be used in combination with the then recently introduced ‘First Home Loan Deposit Scheme’).” (Source: Core Logic)  The Trio take a walk down memory lane as they recall some of the various first home buyer incentives introduced by our governments since the GFC. Dave canvases the concept of false economy when it comes to incentives and price points that some buyers chase that don't completely align with an optimal strategy. Cate delves into some of the issues that could arise when parents' generosity is too great.  From a lack of appreciation to jealousy among peers, (and many others), there are some significant risks that need to be considered. Cate chats about hers and her husband's approach with their daughter's property deposit savings regime. From a small inheritance from her grandmother a few years ago, followed by ETF share portfolio outperformance of that little nest egg, this seventeen year old has been making regular contributions to her portfolio with her part time job. What is the deal that Cate has struck with her? Tune in to find out...  The Trio reflect on the great encouragement that their own parents imparted. Thinking about the great lessons and moments of pride during our own childhood can lead to some great ideas that can be paid forward.    And lastly, Cate talks about some of the non-financial ways that we can make a positive difference for kids these days.  .... and our gold nuggets!  Cate Bakos's gold nugget: When you're working out how you can help your kids with their financial future, make sure you let it be their journey. Mike Mortlock's gold nugget: Mike reflects on Cate's daughter's $5000 nest egg which was compounding. That 'early win' is a very valuable introduction to good investing.  Dave Johnston's gold nugget: Getting his children applying some research and selecting companies in a share portfolio from the age of grade six is an exciting plan that Dave has been considering.   Show notes: https://www.propertytrio.com.au/2024/06/24/helping-our-children/

17 JUN 2024 · Got a question for the trio? https://forms.zohopublic.com/propertyplanningaustralia/form/GotaquestionforthePropertyTrio/formperma/zYCQAxzE_24CVlDafP1ozyzwtmB-8m1iCNtCTgDvHXM Mike kicks off this episode, and the Trio chat about the ferocity of the Perth market and they ponder the nature of cyclic markets. Is Perth cyclic? And is this city sharing a pattern with any other cities, or is Perth unique? And how is it possible that rental growth is still strong when investors are buying up?   Brisbane's outperformance is noteworthy too, with this beautiful city taking the lead on Melbourne.  Hobart's decline in rents defies most of the nation, but Cate explains some of the driving forces at play. Namely, the sea-change/sea-change moves during lockdown are reversing for many, and combined with the update in overseas holiday activity (to the detriment of domestic travel), cities like Hobart are experiencing different trends to most of our other capital cities. Mike tackles yields and marvels at the combined capitals average yield, but as Cate reminds listeners, average yields are not a perfect measure because the ratio of houses/units across our cities varies greatly. If only Core Logic could give us a separate measure for houses versus units! And what is happening with listings? We have more new listings than previous years, but our total listing figures are below historical levels. This tells us that buyer demand is strong, and is soaking up the listings faster than they are hitting. While the Spring market has returned after two years of glitches to 'the norm' over COVID, some things have changed. Cate talks through some of these, including off-market listings. "Such a tale of eight cities", says Mike as he compares the difference in listing volumes across several capital cities.  But by drawing our listener's attention to the three data sets, (new listings, old listings, total listings), in triplicate they tell a very interesting story. Cate ponders the viability of gauging the retraction of old listings when it comes to identifying markets that may be over-heated. This month's Westpac Consumer Sentiment Index is reasonably unchanged from last month. There is no doubt that the affects of higher interest rates are biting for many households. However, as Cate says, "It's a bit of a boring chart, but right now, boring is good."  Lending indicators are showing some strong numbers; with the exception of construction. Despite investor numbers coming off a low base, Dave explains that buyers are making decisions now that it's obvious that the risk of interest rate increases is lower. Cate shares an interesting chart that segments funding into construction, established, land, new builds and alterations/repairs. There is no doubt that the pain of the construction industry is showing up in the data. The bond yields shows that the rate today is predicted by the markets to be the 'new norm'. Dave steps the listeners through some of the charts, including the unemployment data. "Unemployment has often been the collateral damage as the RBA has been increasing rates to bring down inflation, but this time they are trying a different tact, and they've actually said that", states Dave. And... time for our gold nuggets...  Cate Bakos's gold nugget: Buyers have to consider a broad picture before they circle in on one city that's doing well. Getting our hands on the rate of change of old listings offers a bit of valuable insight. David Johnston's gold nugget: Market updates talk about the monthly market gyrations, but ultimately it's about the big picture and the long term that really matters. And what's right for your personal circumstances is vital. Understand your own strategy and understand the price point that's right for you.  Show notes: https://www.propertytrio.com.au/2024/06/17/ep-262-may-market-update/

10 JUN 2024 · Got a question for the trio? https://forms.zohopublic.com/propertyplanningaustralia/form/GotaquestionforthePropertyTrio/formperma/zYCQAxzE_24CVlDafP1ozyzwtmB-8m1iCNtCTgDvHXM Dave opens our episode with a cautionary tale. We are grateful to our listener, Daniela who wrote to us about a challenging experience she and her husband had with a purchase she described as a "lemon." After having bought a house and land package in Perth that delivered underwhelming capital growth performance for nine years, Daniela and her husband chose to sell the asset when moving to Melbourne for work. Sadly their timing wasn't great and they feel they missed the full cycle (home, upgrade, downsize). Now they find themselves with $110,000 in savings, a limited array of property options that appeal to them, a student son living with them, and a dilemma on their hands. Do they buy a house in the outer suburbs or consider apartments? And if they can afford two apartments instead of a house, will this help them gain a better financial position?  Mike and Cate tackle the houses vs apartment outperformance question. Cate steps back to the heart of the listener question and suggests that finding a suitable home should be the primary focus at this stage, (as opposed to their appetite for capital growth outperformance).  Four unfortunate headwinds have compounded the issue for the couple now, namely;  - Their timing with the Perth market was unfortunate - Markets are cyclical and managing market cycle risk is always a challenge when buy and hold timeframes are short - House and land packages are notorious for underperformance due to the lower Land to Asset Ratio - Melbourne's broad property value is still greater than Perth "Over the previous ten years, Melbourne prices grew 96 percent, yet Perth prices in the same timeframe only delivered eight percent." From managing simultaneous sales/purchases to strategising a surprise interstate move, Dave touches on some of the important elements for buyers to consider.  Daniela and her husband sold the house in Perth, but could have they had a better long term outlook if they'd held onto Perth? And should they be buying in Melbourne now that they have moved there? There are a lot of questions that the Trio bring up for our listener couple to think about. Daniela has nominated two options that she feels could be feasible, but why does Cate suggest that she could be on the wrong track? And what other options could be viable? Tune in to find out...  Stage of life is very important when it comes to determining a property plan. The Trio discuss the next items for Daniela and her husband to canvas in relation to their strategy.  "If they are focusing on Melbourne as their forever place, there is a silver lining. The market has stood still for them", says Cate.  .... and our gold nuggets!  Mike Mortlock's gold nugget: "Avoid perverting the course of what you are trying to achieve with dual ambitions." Having a clear strategy on a primary requirement can mitigate this risk. Cate Bakos's gold nugget: Only once you trigger a sale event is when a result is crystallised. Cate recommends buyers seek professional advice before triggering a loss or a gain.  Shownotes:  https://www.propertytrio.com.au/2024/06/10/recovering-from-buying-a-lemon/

3 JUN 2024 · Got a question for the trio? https://forms.zohopublic.com/propertyplanningaustralia/form/GotaquestionforthePropertyTrio/formperma/zYCQAxzE_24CVlDafP1ozyzwtmB-8m1iCNtCTgDvHXM Mike opens our 260th episodes, congratulating Dave and Cate on five years of podcasting. The Trio have decided to take a trip down memory lane and reflect on some of the eps, and the special bond that they all share, Pete included. Cate gives the listeners a bit of background about what drove the market update deliveries, and how the show has evolved as a result of lockdowns and listener feedback. Reflecting on the initial seven episodes from their pilot run has been fascinating and they share a few fun soundbites.  Why don't the Trio invite guests on the show? They actually imagined at the start that they would, but it's become a point of difference to stick to the Trio, (plus Pete for the occasional appearance). Cate expands on why the show is likely to remain as just the three hosts.  Deep-diving into the data, and in particular their chosen topics has a dual benefit for the Trio. Sometimes they select a topic that really stretches their own knowledge.  Replacing Pete was no mean feat and Cate reflects on Mike's appointment and some of his cheeky antics.   The Trio have each selected some of their favourite snippets from the early days .... we hope you enjoy!  Show Notes: https://www.propertytrio.com.au/2024/06/03/celebrating-five-years/

27 MAY 2024 · Got a question for the trio? https://forms.zohopublic.com/propertyplanningaustralia/form/GotaquestionforthePropertyTrio/formperma/zYCQAxzE_24CVlDafP1ozyzwtmB-8m1iCNtCTgDvHXM This week, we unpack a fabulous listener question from Melissa. "What advice would you give to those of us who have construction loans were the build is dragging and we're being squeezed between increasing rents, increasing interest rates, and increasing construction costs?", she asks. "And what advice would you give to anyone considering a construction loan? "   Cate steps through some of the planning, building and environmental issues that can threaten a build or renovation. Mike sheds light on the flow-on effects that are triggered by planning and building delays. From overcapitalisation to materials surcharges, council enforced orders and others, there are some serious risks that must be considered by those who decide to build or renovate. How can renovators avoid some of the stressors? Dave has some good tips...  How many people consider the contractual details, milestone payments, additional costs and cashflow considerations? It can be tricky to navigate these points, but Mike has some great ideas he shares with the listeners who are considering embarking on a build or a renovation.  How long should people spend in the planning phase?  Mike sheds light on some of the elements that get missed at the design phase. Did you know that approximately 60% of defects occur at the design phase? The Trio share their advice for those who are thinking about a construction loan. Construction lending experience is critical, and Cate and Dave chat about the key differences between traditional, established-property lending versus construction lending.  And what is an "as-if completion valuation"? And what is the process that needs to be followed? Mike gives us some valuable insights into the role of a Quantity Surveyor.  ..... and the gold nuggets!  Cate Bakos's gold nugget: There are three things that Cate thinks are really important to nail. 1. understand the budget. 2. work with someone who will work to your budget. 3. have a very good strategic finance person on your side. Mike Mortlock's gold nugget: "Make sure the contract is reviewed!" Having an firm understanding of all of the important elements is so valuable for those who are building and renovating.  Show notes: https://www.propertytrio.com.au/2024/05/27/home-building-and-development-project-perils/

20 MAY 2024 · Got a question for the trio? https://forms.zohopublic.com/propertyplanningaustralia/form/GotaquestionforthePropertyTrio/formperma/zYCQAxzE_24CVlDafP1ozyzwtmB-8m1iCNtCTgDvHXM Mike kicks off this episode, and directly following Budget Night, the Trio chat all things Federal budget. From the lack of new property initiatives to questioning the impact of the Federal Rental relief, one thing is obvious. The Labour government are acutely aware of the need to see inflation rates reduce, and we are less than one year out from an election. The budget could be described as tame, but that doesn't slow the discussion at all for the Trio. April’s increase takes the current growth cycle into its 15th month, with housing values up 11.1% since the trough in January last year. However, almost every capital city is recording stronger growth conditions across the lower value range of the market. The shift towards stronger conditions across lower value markets can also be seen between the housing types, with growth in unit values outpacing house values over the past three months. Hobart was the only city where houses recorded a larger gain than units over the past three months. Regional markets have shown a slightly stronger quarterly growth rate over the past five months than their capital city counterparts, following a 10-month period where the combined capitals index was outperforming. Regional Victoria (-0.1%) was the only rest of state market to record a decline in values over the rolling quarter. Nationally, rents were up 0.8% in April, a slightly lower rate of growth relative to February and March when the national rental index rose 0.9% and 1.0% respectively. As Dave points out, Although rental growth may be tapering, supply remains extremely short and the trend towards smaller households seen through COVID has been slow to reverse, further amplifying rental demand. It is likely rental growth will remain well above average for some time yet. In April, the national gross rental yield rose to 3.75%, the highest reading since October 2019, up from a record low of 3.16% in January 2021. Vacancies continue to remain tight, although a subtle ease is evident from last month to our current month, with more than half of the capital cities increasing slightly. Dwelling sales look to have moved through a cyclical peak in November last year. Although the monthly trend in home sales is highly seasonal, the less seasonal six-month trend has remained relatively flat since the November rate hike. Estimated sales over the past three months are tracking 8.6% higher than at the same time last year, and about 5.1% above the previous five-year average. Listing volumes tell an interesting story, and as Cate points out, the rate of new listings is remarkably 'normal', in fact it's slightly stronger than the past five year average. However, the total listings tell another story. Demand is exceeding supply, and older listings are now being snapped up by buyers. The trio canvas what the possible driver could be, and they determine that old stock, (in particular, units) could be the reason. Given the the relative outperformance of units in most capital cities, this possibility doesn't seem all that extreme. In an effort to cover off the Consumer Sentiment Index, we turned to the ANZ Roy Morgan poll given Westpac's index is yet to materialise. Consumer Confidence remains very weak, sitting at its lowest level for the year. Show Notes: https://www.propertytrio.com.au/2024/05/20/ep-258-april-market-update/

13 MAY 2024 · Got a question for the trio? https://forms.zohopublic.com/propertyplanningaustralia/form/GotaquestionforthePropertyTrio/formperma/zYCQAxzE_24CVlDafP1ozyzwtmB-8m1iCNtCTgDvHXM Cate circles on on what technically defines a townhouse. She shares an example and talks about the differences between apartments and townhouses when it comes to land on title. Mike asks a tough question, "How do townhouses perform, as compared to houses?" but as Cate points out, it's not a hard and fast rule. There are elements that can bolster up the value (and performance) of a townhouse such as vista, prestigious locale, water views etc. Of course Land to Asset Ratio comes into play, but it isn't fair to classify all townhouses the same.  Dave talks about the complexities of buying a townhouse that is yet to have it's subdivision registered. This is technically deemed an 'off the plan purchase' and this does carry lending risk for some buyers.  But what can buyers do when they need to move in to their new home by a certain date, but title registration is delayed? Cate shares an interesting possible solution .... a license agreement. Cate runs through the various subsets of units; apartments, villa units, and townhouses. She breaks down the hierarchy of land ownership for each subset and details some of the formats of townhouses and common land versus no common land. And how do some townhouses qualify for no owner's (or strata) corporations?  "These types of townhouses are inherently more valuable".  The Trio delve into the attributes that developers look for to optimise their profits on a multi-unit development site, but Cate also talks about some of the investor mistakes associated with medium-density development activity areas.  What are some of the attributes that Cate looks for when assisting developer clients? Tune to find out...  Lending is not always straight-forward or easy for developer finance and Dave shares some of the categories of lending and LVRs, from small-time residential to larger-scale commercial. Buckle in for some valuable, technical insights and explanations, and Cate points out the risks.  And what are some of the things that developers get wrong?   ..... and the gold nuggets! Cate Bakos's gold nugget: Bedroom count can create a difficult compromise. Is the bedroom too tight? Is the proportionality of the unit not feeling right? You have to ask yourself the question; "Have you bought yourself a lemon?" Overcapitalisation risk challenges the profitability of making changes, so buyers need to search in the right area for the right townhouse.   Dave Johnston's gold nugget: If a townhouse is going to be a stepping stone home or an investment, it can be quite feasible for first time buyers. Dave implores buyers to consider buying into a great location that is close to where they would ultimately like to live in their family home.  Mike Mortlock's gold nugget: Mike likes townhouses! Provided, of course, that they are well-located. He notes the stronger rental yields, but his concern is that of scarcity.  Show notes: https://www.propertytrio.com.au/2024/05/13/all-things-townhouses/

6 MAY 2024 · Got a question for the trio? https://forms.zohopublic.com/propertyplanningaustralia/form/GotaquestionforthePropertyTrio/formperma/zYCQAxzE_24CVlDafP1ozyzwtmB-8m1iCNtCTgDvHXM Mike has crafted a great episode from the 2020/2021 tax year data. The average income rose to $68,289. Surprise, surprise, Double Bay came in at first $266,000 and Dover Heights, Rose Bay and Vaucluse came in second at $230,597, and Toorak (Vic) starred, but Cottesloe and Peppermint Bay in WA came in third at $229,000. The median is what’s interesting. Stats can be distorting. The median in the top ten suburnbs is $80,000, but the average is significantly higher”Cate sheds light on the returns lodged during the year 2020/2021 which were up 28.3% on the 2006/2007 financial year. A large proportion of SMSF owners account for this strong differential and the Trio ponder the popularity of SMSF investment. “If you don’t own your own home, you’re in big trouble when you retire.” How much truth to this claim is there?  The Trio unpack the history of superannuation and reflect on super from an employer’s angle too. The big bucks earners start with Surgeons at an average income of $457,281, followed by Anaesthetists, then ‘Financial Dealers’ (whatever that means?!), and fourth with Mining Engineers. Where does the revenue come from? Company tax and GST, followed by individual income tax, and only 15% is GST. Dave dares to raise the concept of bracket creep. Mike shares a startling stat, “88.35% of Aussies earn less than $120K, but the remaining 11.65% pay just over half of all income tax in Australia.” The bracket that most Australians sit within is the $6001 – $37,000 income earners. Dave adds that 4% of income earners pay 35% of tax and he highlights the sensitivities of bracket creep and the required changes. Historically we have always had net rental losses, but what happened in 2020/2021? Cate explains…tune in to find out!How many people earn six or more properties? Cate has some insightful stats to share. Check out our show notes to see an interesting breakdown. .….. and the gold nuggets! Mike Mortlock’s gold nugget: Things are a little bit more complex than the media would have you believe. When you slice and dice the data, you get some interesting results. But stay tuned for the battle leading up to the Federal election. Cate Bakos’s gold nugget: The fiancial year where we saw net rental gains (2020/2021) needs to be contrasted against the following year. We’re on treacherous territory with over 90% of private investors servicing the rental market while our politicians focus on the downside of negative gearing. Dave Johnston’s gold nugget: The word negative gearing needs to be understood better in relation to all business activities. As Dave points out, when this term is associated with property it’s portrayed as ‘the big bad wolf’, but negative gearing is widely misunderstood. Shoe notes: https://www.propertytrio.com.au/2024/05/06/ato-insights-unveiled-what-does-the-data-tell-us-about-investor-behaviours/

29 APR 2024 · Got a question for the trio? https://forms.zohopublic.com/propertyplanningaustralia/form/GotaquestionforthePropertyTrio/formperma/zYCQAxzE_24CVlDafP1ozyzwtmB-8m1iCNtCTgDvHXM Cate kicks off the episode and invites Dave to share a bit of information about our exciting case study couple and their quest to move to Venus Bay to enjoy a simpler life. They asked Dave's team to help them work out how they can achieve their goals, including the generation of a passive income and retaining their Melbourne home as an investment. Is it realistic? Is it achievable? The Trio delve into the emotions that can run when setting these types of goals. They also congratulate our case study couple for having a firm goal and setting about constructing a plan.  "Not having a plan is like chipping away at a piece of marble without knowing what the statue is going to be", says Mike.  Rachel and Marcus have a very solid financial outlook. Cate gives a fiscal snapshot of their debt, income and equity position for context and Dave runs through the critical questions that are asked in order to determine their property plan.  Our case study couple rated themselves on the risk profile meter as 4-4.5 out of 5, however the Trio challenge this and discuss their rationale for down-scaling our couple to lesser risk score.  Dave steps through the assumptions and inputs, and Cate weaves through each of the three scenarios that were presented to the couple.  What is a prudent capital growth forecast rate? And when should consumers be wary? Mike expands on the reasons why some claims can be dangerous and Cate warns about the risks of buying brand new. The three scenarios show a progression of outcomes, and with small tweaks and changes, each scenario is quite different from the last option. But what are some of the most stunning outcomes, and what are the powerful tweaks that could surprise many of us? Tune in to find out....  Cate touches on the risks of buying a future home, and the Trio share some of the mitigants others who find themselves in a similar situation to consider.  One of the three scenarios not only gets our hard working duo to their goals, but enables them to enjoy an even higher passive income. What are some of the tips, tricks and counter-intuitive moves that they had to consider? We wish Rachel and Marcus a wonderful and rewarding journey, and a fabulous future in Venus Bay!  ..... and the gold nuggets!  Cate Bakos's gold nugget: The tiny little decisions that can be made from one scenario to another may not seem significant, but can be very conservative in the long run. The counter-intuitive suggestions can make a huge difference. Dave Johnston's gold nugget: This is a great example of the benefit of creating a property plan. "For anyone who's interested in creating wealth through property, setting a plan will set you a step ahead."  Mike Mortlock's gold nugget: Make sure you have income protection insurance and other risk-mitigating insurances. Congrats to our case study couple!  Shownotes: https://www.propertytrio.com.au/2024/04/29/listener-questions-moving-to-the-coast-for-a-simpler-life/