1970s Average House Prices in Australia
Key takeaways Property prices increase significantly over time, and the earlier you start investing, the better off you’ll be. In 1975, the median house price in Sydney was around $28,000 – almost six times the value of the average annual…
11 things you could do to lose money in property in 2024
Key takeaways There is no real ‘secret’ to property investing success, but there is a strategy. Location is the most important thing to consider when it comes to buying your next investment property. Location is one thing, but the property…
Why Are Young Aussies Searching Looking Beyond AU to Settle Down?
The magnificent coastline, free-spirited lifestyle, and amenities started to weigh less for the young Aussies as they struggled to cover their basic expenses. The salary can’t keep up with the effects of rent, inflation, and climate change. Therefore, fresh graduates…
How to Choose a Property Investment Advisor in Australia
Who do you ask for property advice? With so many mixed messages and vested interests, who can you really trust? And in today’s property markets, there are very few advisers who have the perspective of having lived through and successfully…
Vendor and property buyer activity is high, what’s going on?
Key takeaways Over the past four weeks, new listings were 18% above this time last year, and 7.7% above the five-year average. Almost every capital city and rest of state region has seen an increase in vendor activity relative to…
Habits that separate men and women
Since 2004, I’ve devoted a significant amount of my time to researching habits. One of the questions I get asked by the media often is: Are there differences between the habits of men and women? The answer is always Yes….
How Apps Can Help You Succeed
A whirlwind of change sweeps through Australia’s property investment market. According to a Statista study of August 2022, approximately a quarter of investors held two properties in their portfolios. Even more spectacular: nearly 15% held six or more. This certainly…
Where Should You Buy a Property as an Investment in Australia?
If you had $1 million to spend on property investment in Australia today, where would you invest it? What location would you buy in, and why? And what about if you only have $500,000 to invest? Where is the best…
Where is each Australian capital placed on the property clock?
If you google my name – God forbid – then more often than not, my version of the property clock will be one of the first articles in the run down. I don’t know why, as I have said some…
Self-Determination vs. Predetermination
I’m going to get a little philosophical here. Bear with me. There’s an important point I’m trying to make. There are two opposing schools of thought that divide mankind. School of Thought #1: Self-Determination Drives Life Circumstances School of Thought…
23 lessons from 2023 you don’t want to forget now that we’re well into 2024
Key takeaways We’re almost half way through 2024, and our property markets are surprising many on the upside, so it’s a good time to look back and remember some lessons to help make the rest of 2024 a better year…
What makes a great leader?
I was watching former US President Barack Obama speak at a global event the other week, and I was struck by how charismatic he was. Whatever you think of the Obama administration’s time in office, there’s no getting past his…
7 reasons why so many investors never get past their first property
Key takeaways Most Australian investors own just one investment property, and only 18 per cent own two. There are seven reasons why many investors have no choice but to stop at one property. The majority of Australians think they’re property…
The Business of the Rich is Manufacturing Luck
What do wealthy people do to become wealthy?” The answer is – “They create their own good luck”. But how can you create good luck? Before I answer that question we need to understand luck. There are four types of…
Warning – Avoid these FOMO errors investors make in today’s property market
Key takeaways FOMO (fear of missing out) is starting to show itself – as homebuyers and investors are scared that the market is running away from them. The property market grew strongly last year and has started 2024 firmly, but…
Over-rated work habits you need to ditch now
We only have so many hours in the day so why do some people spend it on tasks that won’t enhance their happiness or lead to success? Baffling, isn’t it? Lots of people work hard. They burn the midnight oil,…
Making our cities better
Key takeaways Australia is going through an infrastructure boom. This follows from a building boom and before that a resources boom. In fact, Australia has experienced sequential economic booms: resources, building, and now infrastructure. These booms are driven by powerful…
10 Success Habits Self-Made Millionaires Learned From Their Parents
I spent five years researching the daily habits and lessons that self-made millionaires learned from their non-millionaire parents. I share all of these habits and lessons in my book Rich Kids but thought I’d share with you ten of the most…
The three big ‘misses’ in the Budget on housing
Key takeaways For a Budget that made housing a central focus, the federal government missed three opportunities to improve housing supply. The budget missed an opportunity to optimise Commonwealth Rental Assistance payments by ensuring they are well-targeted. While a broad-based…
Why I don’t agree with Robert Kiyosaki
During your career as an investor, you’ll no doubt read at least a few books from various experts who’ve all created wealth through a proactive property investment strategy. One of the names you’ve probably come across is Robert Kiyosaki, celebrated…
Am I too old to invest in property?
I’ve had conversations with plenty of discouraged folks who are in their 50s (or even older) and they’re wondering how they’re going to survive in their retirement. They start to question if it’s too late to invest in property. Is…
[Podcast] Property success principles that stand still when everything else moves
What will life be like in 10 years? Strategic property investors think in 10-year time frames, they don’t worry about what’s going to happen to interest rates or the economy in the next six weeks or the next six months….
a necessity to meet Government housing goals
The Housing Industry Association (HIA), has highlighted a significant challenge in meeting the Australian Government’s ambitious goal to construct 1.2 million homes over the next five years. According to HIA’s latest Economic and Industry Outlook report, the rate of apartment…
Are You Willing to do What it Takes to Become Rich?
One of the most revolutionary and groundbreaking discoveries I made in my five-year Rich Habits Study, was the fact that there are Four Paths to Wealth. I cover these paths in more detail in my new book, Effort-Less Wealth, but here’s a…
25 home buyer questions, answered
Key takeaways Deposit requirements vary among lenders, but generally, a 20% deposit is recommended to avoid paying lenders mortgage insurance (LMI). However, some lenders may accept lower deposits. Seeking advice from experienced professionals and understanding the intricacies of the property…
20 “life changing” lessons – great inspirational quotes to start your week
Here’s a selection of great inspirational quotes – many from some great thought leaders. Some would even call these life changing lessons: 1. People who say it cannot be done should not interrupt those who are doing it.” -ANONYMOUS 2….
Here’s one thing you need to change to become a successful property investor
Key takeaways I’ve found that for most property investors to change their level of wealth, they must change. Your Thoughts Lead to your Feelings – Your Feelings lead to your Actions and Your Actions determine your Results. The problem is…
The Habits of Unsuccessful People vs. Successful People [infographic]
Succeeding is hard: it requires a lot of work, strong will and a great deal of patience. So what’s the difference between successful and unsuccessful people? It’s their habits. If you think about it, you are where you are in life today because of all the things…
2.5 million Aussies move in with family or friends in past year – new data reveals
Key takeaways 12% of Australians have switched to shared housing in last 12 months. One million people did so because of soaring rental costs. There are a few ways on how you can save on rent if you can’t move…
How to help your teens become money smart
You may think that being good with money is something that you’re born with. Like being good at English or sports, perhaps you see it as a skill that some people just happen to have. I think this is a…
The Future of Property Investing – Robo-Advisors and Real Estate
Investing in property has never been more dynamic. Emerging technologies are reshaping investment management. Robo-advisors, powered by advanced artificial intelligence, are redefining precision and efficiency. They navigate complex real estate markets, making strategic decisions more accessible. As the digital landscape evolves,…
Estimates suggest there will be 25 million of these by 2100
Estimates suggest there will be 25 million of these by 2100. Take a guess what I’m talking about: Is it: electric vehicles, household robots, wild elephants, centenarians, or streaming services per household? Electric vehicles.There may be far more than 25…
almost one in two capital city suburbs hit record high
Key takeaways Australia’s property market has become a picture of resilience and decline, showcasing stark contrasts across cities, suburbs, and regions. The relatively small capital gain over the past two years is a legacy of the -7.5% drop in national…
The myth of the overnight success
We’ve all heard stories of so-called overnight successes. Well, I’m here to tell you they’re a myth. But what about the people who win the lottery or inherit a large amount of money, you may ask? I don’t consider those…
Guide to Downsizing a House in Australia
Downsizing to a smaller house can sometimes feel overwhelming, but at some stage in our lives, the pros will begin to outweigh the cons. After all, downsizing your home to a smaller one is a great opportunity to save money…
[Podcast] Priceless investing lessons from influential billionaires, with Mark Creedon
Today, I’m joined by Mark Creedon, and together we explore some priceless investment lessons from some of the world’s most successful billionaires. These titans of industry have not only built immense wealth but have also mastered the art of sustaining…
6 Tips to Ensure a Safe Construction Site for your Property
One glance is all it takes to reveal the inherent risk of construction sites. The constant buzz of machinery and construction workers in an unfinished and potentially unstable structure exposes them to a fair share of hazardous conditions. This is…
Advantages and Disadvantages of Growing up Rich
The rich get richer. You’ve no doubt heard that soundbite many times. Is it true? The short answer is no. According to the Williams Group, a wealth consultancy group, 70% of wealthy families lose their wealth by the second generation, and…
3.1% increase in new loans taken out in March – new data reveals
The lending landscape experienced another surge in March, marking the second consecutive month of growth as buyers rushed into the market ahead of anticipated cuts to the country’s official cash rate. According to the latest ABS Lending Indicators seasonally adjusted…
40 best Warren Buffett quotes on investing, business, and life
Key takeaways Warren Buffett is known for many things: his reading habits, his philanthropy, his dedication to teaching the importance of money to kids, his business acumen, his wealth, and especially his investing style. He is also known for giving…
The 10 most important life lessons of a property investor
I recently celebrated a another birthday. I won’t tell you how old I am, but nowadays my candles cost more than my birthday cake! As I’ve been investing in property, and some would suggest rather successfully, for over 5 decades,…
An investment case for putting all your property eggs in one basket
It is generally an accepted investment principle that diversification can reduce your risk and improve investment returns. The common vernacular is, to spread your eggs amongst various baskets. I would agree with this principle, so long as it doesn’t result…
Who Expects to Get Richer in 2024, by Both Generation and Gender
The jury is still out on how the global economy is expected to perform in 2024, but as seen during the pandemic, economic turmoil sometimes provides opportunities for the wealthy. We visualize the percentage of high net worth individual (HNWI)…
Eight charts on how Australia’s population is growing – and changing
People form the foundation of society, determining all manner of things from housing needs to economic well-being. And population characteristics can tell us much about how the inhabitants of a place have changed over time and where the population might…
The shifting rental landscape in Australia
Key takeaways The Australian rental market is witnessing a significant shift, with higher-income earners increasingly dominating the rental space while lower-income earners struggle to find affordable housing. The proportion of higher-income earners in the rental market has grown substantially over…
[Podcast] They’re coming for you! Will the government change negative gearing and CGT, with Mike Mortlock
Today I’m going to discuss several topics of interest for property investors with Mike Mortlock, the Managing Director of MCG Quantity Surveyors. Mike’s team has recently released a report titled ‘Rising Tide of Unit Rents Closes Gap with Houses in…
Navigating Property Transfers with Expertise
In Australia, buying or selling property is a significant legal and financial undertaking, often representing one of the largest transactions you will make. To navigate this complex process, the role of a settlement agent is crucial. Settlement agents, also known…
The Desire To Be Rich is a Good Thing
Is it bad to want to be rich? Let me ask that question a different way. Is it bad to want to be successful at your job or in your business? If your knee-jerk reaction is to say, “Yes, it’s…
CBA pares back cash rate cut prediction to just one in 2024
Key takeaways Australia’s biggest bank, CBA, has revised its cash rate forecast, reducing the number of predicted RBA cuts in 2024 from three 0.25 percentage point cuts to just one, scheduled for November. Last week Westpac e updated the bank’s…
Don’t Let the Status Quo Stop You
Some of us really like the status quo. Even when we have a better alternative, many of us are content to keep on doing what we’re doing. I think about this every time my wife and I swap cars. Depending…
4 easy tips to set up or revamp your home
Creating a comfortable and stylish home doesn’t need to be a lengthy or costly endeavour. Whether you’re starting from scratch with a new property or looking to refresh your current living space, there are straightforward strategies that can transform any…
Money Won’t Make You Happier But It Will Eliminate 58% Of The Unhappiness Caused By Not Having Money
I spent many years studying the rich and the poor in my Rich Habits Study and found that there were twelve problems almost everyone has to contend with in life: Health Problems Financial Problems Family Problems Neighbor Problems Home Repair…
Why free investment advice could cost you a fortune
Key takeaways Of course, nothing in this world is free — especially property investment advice. In fact, free advice is usually worth what you paid for it. Here’s the thing: as a property investor you’ll have to pay “learning fees” —…
Another 25 Tony Robbins Inspirational Quotes
Tony Robbins, is a life coach and performance strategist. He says he is not a motivator. He’s been quoted as saying: “If all you do is motivate, without a strategy, it’s like a warm bath. It’s nice. It’s not enough.” Robbins…
6 ways to teach your kids about money, according to Warren Buffett
Key takeaways Here are six of his best tips for parents wanting to help turn their toddler into the next Warren Buffett. 1. Start the conversation early. 2. Teach them the value of saving. 3. Give them a financial role…
Why you like coffee, and I choose tea – it’s in the genes
Do you drink freshly brewed coffee to start off your day? Or is a cup of English breakfast tea a better option for you? Your choice could be a result of your genes, and how they affect your experience of…
The biggest migration hot spots and the impact on housing trends
Key takeaways Australia is slowly moving through an enormous spike in overseas migration, with a combination of internal migration and overseas migration driving the growth. The top 10 SA2 regions in net migration over FY23 were located in Sydney and…
4 Reasons why you need to be yourself to be successful
We all have a friend or know someone who is a bit unique. They’re the kind of person that other people describe as slightly eccentric and who don’t seem to care what others think. But it’s not that they’re different…
where is it the highest and what does it mean for housing trends
Key takeaways Australia’s population is growing at the fastest rate since the 1950s, and 75% of the population lives in the three largest cities. The density of the population becomes more relevant at a city level. Melbourne records the highest…
Keep Track of Your Results
Three keywords to remember: weigh, count and measure. Now why weigh, count and measure? To see what your results are from your activity, your attitude, and your philosophy. If you find that the results are not to your liking there…
a look at the future with 1 chart
What lies ahead for Australia in the next 10 years? Well, Simon Kuestenmacher highlighted a chart that is pivotal when forecasting the next ten years in Australia in his column in the New Daily. Its simplicity belies its significance in…
5 home expenses renters don’t pay
With our housing markets picking up around Australia there’s a whole young generation of first-home buyers getting onto the property ladder. The problem is, many of these First-time property buyers forget that the purchase price is not the end of…
The 10 Best Luxury Houses for Sale in Australia 2024
Some of the biggest mansions in Australia are fetching record prices as it becomes clear that demand for luxurious homes in Australia is far outpacing supply. And it’s not surprising given that the number of ultra high net worth (UHNW)…
[Podcast] These are the biggest influencers of our property markets that all property investors must understand.
To help you understand what’s ahead and if our property markets are going to keep rising or going to slow down or even go backward, as some property pessimists are still suggesting, in today’s episode I want to outline the…
Water Conservation Hacks for Every Home
Want to save the planet? Or money? Your goal doesn’t matter! Conserving water in North Shore is all you need. Water is a valuable resource. To survive, both plants and animals depend on water. However, people in areas with plenty…
Offset Accounts vs Lines of Credit
Many of the property investors I speak with are often confused about the differences between Line of Credit facilities and Offset Accounts. Understanding how these two types of loan-related products can function will help determine the best fit for your property investment strategy. What…
20 years of poor property growth… is the property party over?
Key takeaways Over the past two decades, median house price growth has been 5.3% p.a., which is considerably lower than the preceding 20-year period from 1983 to 2003, during which median house price growth was 8.7% p.a. The median house…
19 great quotes for top achievement
Recently success coach and best selling author Robin Sharma shared 20 of his quotes for getting bold dreams and bright goals done. They came from his books, blogs and tweets. Here they are: 1. Dream Big. Start small. Act now. 2….
Here are 5 numbers you can use to assess a property’s investment potential
Key takeaways How do you choose an investment-grade property that will outperform the averages and deliver wealth-producing rates of return? Well…you probably know by now that property investment is part science and part art. At Metropole we look at the…
Why leaving it to “Ron” is always a bad idea
Most people have met “Ron” but probably don’t realise it. Ron is not some long-lost Great Uncle or even the person you always smile at at the local café but never got around to learning their name. No, that is…
4 Reasons to Consider Retiring in the Caribbean
Have you ever caught yourself daydreaming about retiring on a sunny Caribbean island? If so, you’re not alone. The Caribbean has become a top retirement destination for good reason. Have you ever considered joining the growing number of retirees flocking…
Aussie homeowners see six-figure gains as property prices soar
About PropertyUpdate PropertyUpdate.com.au is Australia’s leading property investment wealth creation website with tips, advice and strategies from leading real estate investment experts. Featuring topics like property investment, property development (helping you understand the process), negative gearing and finance (so you…
Changing the perspective on first home buyer numbers
Key takeaways Australia’s housing market has become harder for first-home buyers to access over time, with falling rates of home ownership, a deterioration in affordability metrics and an increase in the average age of first-home buyers. One data set seemingly…
[Podcast] Believe it or not – more than one in four properties were purchased with cash in 2023 with Julie Toth
Today, we’re diving into a topic that’s making waves in the property market. I’m joined by Julie Toth, Chief Economist at PEXA, to discuss the findings of their 2023 Cash Purchases Report, which sheds light on a startling trend: over…
A deeper dive on Australia’s high migration trends
Who are Australia’s migrants? In his article in The New Daily, leading demographer Simon Kuestenmacher discussed the likelihood of future Australian governments maintaining our high migration approach. So, let’s delve deeper into the makeup of these migrants and the implications…
How Humility Keeps You From Making Big Mistakes
Remember that kid in your high-school geometry class who raised his hand and asked the question everyone knew the answer to? Remember how the class laughed and thought he was so dumb? It turns out that kid wasn’t dumb. That kid was…
Rental supply is on the rise in these areas
Key takeaways Australia’s rental market is experiencing a severe crisis characterized by record-low vacancy rates, limited rental stock, and rising prices. Despite the overall trend, some regions are seeing an increase in rental properties available for tenants. This includes areas…
Why you need to stop playing it safe
Anyone who knows me will tell you that I’m not really a risk-taker. I don’t believe in hedging bets or property hot-spotting, and I’m not a gambler or adrenalin junkie. However, I do know how to identify a good opportunity…
How your super balance compares to others
Key takeaways It’s important to know how much is in your superannuation, and whether you’re on track to achieve a comfortable retirement. Australians can retire at any age, but to qualify for an aged pension you need to be 67…
Sydney housing market update [video]
Last month’s 0.6% lift in national home values marked the 14th consecutive month-on-month rise, taking the index 1.6% or about $12,000 higher in the March quarter. Since declining 7.5% in the downturn between April 2022 and January 2023, the national…
Should you ever prioritise short-term returns?
Regular readers of this blog would be aware of my unwavering commitment to adopting a long-term perspective when it comes to making financial decisions. While I firmly believe in this approach, I also recognise that there are occasions when short-term…
Worry Isn’t Something We Value
I worry about money. I bet you worry about money, too. But here’s the interesting thing: I’ve never worked with anyone who identified “worry” as something they valued. So why do we let worry about money drive so much of…
a shift towards high-income tenants
If you’re currently renting, this might sound all too familiar. However, for those who haven’t been part of the rental market for some time, the following revelation might come as a surprise: Over the past quarter-century, there’s been a significant…
How Do Banks Value a Property?
Property stakeholders often feel a little nervous about a bank valuer visiting. After all, valuers show up, poke around and then send a verdict to the lender about whether the price paid, or estimate made, ‘stacks up to market’. It…
When Will Australian House Prices Crash?
Key takeaways The probability of an Australian property crash is deemed very low. A crash typically occurs when forced sellers significantly discount properties due to an absence of buyers. Such a scenario could arise from severe recession, high unemployment, or…
Vacancy Rate Records Another New Low As Tenant Competition Eases
Key takeaways Australia’s vacancy rate has reached a new record low of 0.7%. However, there’s a slight alleviation in tenant competition as the average views per rental listing declined in February and continues to remain lower compared to previous years….
Adelaide and Perth Closing In on Melbourne’s Prices – What This Means for Investors!
Key takeaways According to recent data, Adelaide and Perth’s median dwelling price are now nearly as pricey as Melbourne for the first time in up to 15 years. At the same time, the median dwelling price in Canberra and Brisbane…
[Podcast] 5 ways to ensure your property investments outperform this cycle
In today’s episode, I’m going to share two lessons with you. The first is five ways I’m going to ensure that my property investments outperform this cycle. Hopefully, I’ll be able to give you some ideas for your investments as…
suburbs where residents stay put or pack up
Australia is full steam ahead through the next phase of the property cycle, but supply issues continue to weigh heavy on the market. The lack of available properties is a market-wide issue, but there are some suburbs where homeowners are…
Doing Nothing Isn’t a Financial Plan
“I don’t know what to do.” I’ve heard those words a lot over the years. Smart, successful people with good educations would sit across from me and tell me they’d done little to no financial planning. They just didn’t know…
What type of property investor are you?
Key takeaways There are 3 main types of property investor As you read this article you’ll see which category you fall into. 1. Firstly there is the Passive Investor who tends to spend little time looking for a property. 2. The…
[Podcast] Unravelling Australia’s Rental Crisis with Dr. Andrew Wilson: Insights & Endgames
If you’re interested in property, you’ll know that our rental markets are in crisis. Vacancy rates have dropped to all-time lows, rental stock remains extremely slim, and rental prices continue to skyrocket. So how did we get into this rental…
Stamp duty is holding us back from moving homes – we’ve worked out how much
If just one state of Australia, New South Wales, scrapped its stamp duty on real estate transactions, about 100,000 more Australians would move homes each year, according to our best estimates. Stamp duty is an unquestioned part of buying a…
Rapid population growth – and its consequences
“Rapid population growth – at rates above 2 per cent, common in most developing countries today – acts as a brake on development. Up to a point, population growth can be accommodated… but the goal of development extends beyond accommodation…
Aussie suburbs where properties are earning more than their owners
Key takeaways Australia’s national property prices reached a new peak in March, having lifted for 14 consecutive months in a row. The latest data shows that property prices have increased 1.57% so far this year to sit 6.79% above March…
Pull Out Your No Shame, No Blame Hat for Better Money Decisions
I’m a huge advocate of the “no shame, no blame” rule when it comes to money. But I think there’s some confusion about how the rule works. It’s not that you won’t feel guilt. It’s also not about avoiding responsibility. Instead, it’s…
The “Secret” To My Property Investing Success
Key takeaways A journalist asked me what’s been the “secret” to my success in building a very substantial property portfolio and having succeeded through multiple property cycles. I explained that there is no “secret” but there is a strategy. My…
Successful people don’t play the blame game
Life has a way of going wrong. When things go wrong, our natural inclination is to blame someone or something. This knee-jerk reaction helps protect our fragile egos, by taking individual responsibility for our actions, out of the equation. Blame…
Some things that never change in a world that never stops changing
Today I’d like to discuss a few things that never change in a world that never stops changing. And that’s because the things that never change are the most important things to pay attention to. However, change gets the most…
The biggest obstacle to wealth
Key takeaways The biggest barrier to wealth for many Australians is not the lack of information but their financial thermostat, which is often set too low from childhood, dictating their comfort level with wealth. Wealthy individuals like Richard Branson operate…
Stop picking on property investors
Key takeaways A disturbing narrative has taken hold in recent years—a kind of “Tall Poppy Syndrome” that paints property investors as the villains of the Australian dream. One in three Aussie families rent their accomodation. Then there are the 2.1…
Has Australia Kissed Rate Cuts Goodbye? Dr. Andrew Wilson Weighs In
Sometimes good news is bad news. The good news about our unemployment figures and the number of new jobs created is, in some ways, bad news for those hoping for interest rates to drop. So what does the latest data…
Rising land tax to cause havoc
Key takeaways State governments have been sending out land tax notices to property investors recently. The increased levies are prompting them to reassess their investments. The surge in land taxes is expected to worsen the rental crisis, as investors may…
Are there any upcoming projects in Belize real estate?
projects in Belize real estate The Belize Real Estate market offers a variety of opportunities for investment. The country’s natural beauty, growing tourism and political stability make it a popular choice for international property buyers. But there are some things…
The Best Path to Long-Term Change Is Slow, Simple and Boring
Many of life’s choices fall into two categories: ■ Option A: Exciting and complex and quick, but the action rarely works. ■ Option B: Boring and simple and slow, but it works nearly all the time. I have been thinking…
Let’s not kid ourselves that private investors or super funds will build the social housing we need
Treasurer Jim Chalmers is leading a push to get private investors to help build more social and affordable housing. But we shouldn’t kid ourselves about where the money will come from. The defining feature of social and affordable housing is…
This is ridiculous, but my love of ice cream taught me about changing habits to become more disciplined
I love ice cream. It is one of my greatest weaknesses. I like lots of flavours but my all-time favourite is mint choc chip. If there is mint chocolate chip ice cream in the house I can hear it calling…
The 6 Benefits of Steel Buildings
In the construction world, steel has emerged as a formidable contender, offering many advantages over traditional building materials. From commercial warehouses to residential homes, steel’s versatility and durability make it an ideal choice among architects, builders, and property owners alike….
The Devil Made Me Do It. Why We Do Bad Things
Believe it or not, there is a Devil and an Angel residing in each one of us. The Devil says “Do it now” and the Angel says, “Don’t do it now.” The Devil goes by a more scientific name –…
What if we stopped immigration? Would that help our housing crisis?
Key takeaways The Government has designed a Migration Program to address persistent and emerging skills shortages and boost productivity as Australia transitions to net-zero emissions. While universities and colleges have benefited financially from the student boom, the surge in temporary…
Celebrate ‘Good Enough’: The Key to a Fulfilling Journey
To all the high achievers out there, here’s a question: When did you last pause to acknowledge that ‘good enough’ can be a victory too? If you’re anything like the many ambitious property investors and business people I encounter, you’re…
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 has been a shift in demand across all our property…
What’s the white stuff on my Easter chocolate, and can I still eat it?
The words “chocolate” and “disappointment” don’t often go together. But you may have experienced some disappointment if you’ve ever unwrapped the bright foil of an Easter egg to discover white, chalky chocolate inside. What is this white substance? Is it…
Capital city’s population growth the highest on record – new data reveals
Australia’s population keeps on booming. In fact, the population of Australia’s capital cities grew over 500,000 in the year ending June 2023, the largest annual growth recorded by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). Beidar Cho, ABS head of demography…
Inner city areas of Australia are booming – regional population growth 2022-23 update
The 2022-23 population update figures (Estimated Resident Population) have just been released by the ABS. This happens around the end of March every year but is particularly eagerly awaited this year, as we already knew from the state and national…
7 questions to evaluate how 2024 will pan out for you
Key takeaways We’re living in interesting times, aren’t we? A time of social and political unrest but also a year into a new property cycle – a time when lifetime wealth will be created by some people, but unfortunately not…
[Podcast] Wealth Building Strategies from Australia’s Premier Wealth Retreat with Brett Warren and Pete Wargent
Why do some people seem to effortlessly grow their wealth while others work hard but continue to struggle? I’ve got something a bit different for you in today’s episode. Together with Brett Warren, national director at Metropole and financial whiz…
Take action in spite of your fears
Here are some interesting facts… The first car was invented in Germany in 1886 where there were no proper roads, no petrol stations, and it was against at the law. But Karl Benz launched it anyway. Amongst 50 of the…
What Burdens Is That Other Person Carrying?
I was in the airport when I found out that the mother of one of my best friends had just died quite suddenly. She was at dinner with a friend, felt sick and was dead within a few hours. I…
Housing affordability hits crisis level – new report reveals
It’s official – housing affordability in Australia is at a crisis point. A startling report by the Real Estate Institute of Australia reveals that families are now allocating nearly half of their income to mortgage repayments. Specifically, the average household…
[Podcast] Is Australia growing too fast? Population Booms and Their Price, with Ross Elliott
Is Australia growing too fast? That’s the question we’re going to ask today. Joining me today is Ross Elliott, a seasoned urban development commentator whose recent article has stirred the pot by highlighting the consequences of Australia’s population surge, especially…
a critical look at falling approvals
The housing sector in Australia is at a crossroads. With housing approvals at their lowest since August 2009, we’re facing a situation where the current housing shortage could worsen unless decisive action is taken. The challenges at hand Several factors…
Which suburbs has prices jumping to more than $240k in the last three months?
Key takeaways Certain suburbs in Sydney and Melbourne have experienced significant increases in property prices, with some exceeding $240,000 over just three months, indicating a strong housing market recovery trend for 2024. Factors such as improved buyer sentiment, changing interest…
If you knew you would die in 10 years, what would you do today
Key takeaways Considering a 10-year timeframe prompts deeper reflection compared to shorter-term scenarios. It allows for significant but manageable adjustments. Spending time with loved ones becomes paramount, emphasizing meaningful connections and creating lasting memories. Focus shifts towards honing skills, sharing…
15 Thoughts About Life, Wisdom and Success by Famous People
The mind is the most important driving force in determining a person’s chances of being successful. Here is a collection of quotes from famous people to help you stay positive. 1. If you can dream it, you can achieve it….
The Power of Thinking Long-Term in Property Investment
What’s your financial time horizon? If you think about it, the average Australian has a very short financial time frame. Often they live week to week and wonder how they’re going to get through financially till the next pay packet….
How Many Property Investors Are There In Australia?
At a time when affordability issues make headlines every day, Australians are feeling the pinch, and properties are both low in supply and high in price; many fingers are pointed at property investors. The problem is many believe that so-called…
Values rose across almost 90% of house and unit markets over the year
Key takeaways Over the past year, CoreLogic’s Home Value Index has risen by 8.9%, contributing approximately $63,000 to the national median dwelling value, reaching an all-time high in February. A significant majority of house and unit markets (88.4%) across Australia…
Renovating to Rent? Don’t Skimp on the Skip Bin
Renovating a property before renting it out is a smart move that many landlords prefer. This investment can be fruitful because property with fresh paint and new flooring attracts quality tenants. But renovation creates a lot of waste. So, how…
Table Styles
class=”prices-cycles” Sample table’s design: Onset of Feb 2024 Δ COVID to 2024 Δ from peak to Feb 2024 Peak date Sydney 24.80% $224,391 -1.90% 22-Jan Melbourne 11.00% $77,386 -4.10% 22-Mar Brisbane 53.50% $280,881 <at peak> 24-Feb Adelaide 55.30% $259,070 <at…
[Podcast] Our No-Nonsense Big Picture Podcast About the Economy and Property Markets, with Pete Wargent
I feel sorry for property investors trying to make headway in real estate. They face the hurdle of significant media misinformation, which is underwhelmingly and unnecessarily discouraging, and social media which is full of “pretend gurus” who are prepared to…
Melbourne’s apartment market: primed for exceptional performance
Key takeaways Over the last decade or so, the capital growth of most Melbourne apartments has been underwhelming, to put it mildly. Detailed analysis of the established unit market (i.e. townhouses and apartments) shows established units are currently undervalued by…
Rates on hold, next move likely to be down
The decision to keep the cash rate on hold at 4.35% came as no surprise, with most economists agreeing the next move on rates will be down. Although the timing of an RBA rate cut remains uncertain and dependent on…
Unstoppable real estate: Aussies’ bold moves in the face of challenges
Despite pandemics, rising interest rates, and challenging supply issues, the Australian property market remains a remarkably resilient, unyielding force, with two out of every five Australians determined to buy a home within the next five years. A recent Westpac Home Ownership…
Navigating the Minefield of Financial Scams with Stuart Wemyss
In an age where financial transactions have largely moved online, the prevalence of financial scams has surged, catching many Australians off guard. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission reports that Australians lost a record $3.1 billion to scams in 2022….
The Aussie suburbs where property is selling the fastest
Properties in some Aussie suburbs are being snapped up at record rates as issues of scarce supply and high demand continue to strain the market. Recent Ray White data reveals that time on the market (how long it takes to…
How does the location of your house drive your investment strategy?
The location of your “great Australian dream” can dramatically alter your wealth-building activities and as such, you must take this into account when developing your investment strategy. Homes are typically not purchased with the sole or dominant reason of building…
Navigating the uncertainty of mortgage rates: insights from Tarric Brooker
What’s ahead for our mortgage rates? We all want them to come down, but when will that happen? In a recent article on news.com.au commentator Tarric Brooker concludes that the timing of rate cuts remains uncertain and the date could…
Sydney versus Melbourne: an investor’s perspective
Sydney’s housing market has shown robust growth since the early 1980s, with the median house price doubling approximately every decade during this period. In fact, several suburbs have delivered above-average growth. Melbourne has experienced comparable growth rates over the last…
In property investing, the planning trumps the plan
Benjamin Graham wisely said: The best way to measure your investing success is not by whether you’re beating the market but by whether you’ve put in place a financial plan and a behavioural discipline that are likely to get you…
More than one in four properties in Australia purchased with cash in 2023 – latest research reveals
Key takeaways Over a quarter (28.5%) of residential properties in Australia’s major eastern states (Victoria, New South Wales, and Queensland) were purchased entirely with cash in 2023, amounting to $129.6 billion. Cash purchases are dominated by two groups—regional buyers and…
How to shift your mindset and create lasting wealth
Key takeaways Are you tired of the rat race and eager to discover the secrets of financial success? Have you wondered what the rich do differently to become…rich? Now just to be clear… not everyone who is rich is what…
Seven ways COVID changed housing trends – Part 3
Key takeaways Once lockdowns and social distancing measures eased, labour markets tightened significantly. Although labour markets are now loosening, RBA forecasts have the unemployment rate holding below 4.5% through to at least mid-2026. Demographic factors have influenced housing trends. Housing…
Why do some locations outperform blue-chip suburbs?
Key takeaways How crucial is it to exclusively invest in blue-chip suburbs? That’s what I discuss in this article. The reality is that some geographical locations will outperform blue-chip suburbs over the next few years. However, pinpointing these outperforming locations…
[Podcast] Rich habits for real estate success: Tom Corley’s approach
In today’s episode of the Michael Yardney podcast, I explore the power of positivity in wealth creation together with Tom Corley, the co-author of my international best-selling book, Rich Habits, Poor Habits. We’ll be dissecting Tom’s blog post “Don’t Let…
Seven ways COVID changed housing trends – Part 2
Key takeaways Rental markets have tightened substantially with vacancy rates holding around 1% and rental growth surging. Nationally, rents have jumped 32.4% since March 2020, adding approximately $150/week to the median dwelling rent. Despite unprecedented housing demand, a supply response…
The Top 5 Richest Cities in Australia & New Zealand
Do you want to know where Australia and New Zealand’s richest people live? New data, from Henley Global, a firm specialising in residence and citizenship planning, reveals the top 97 wealthiest cities in the world, and Australia and New Zealand…
Seven ways COVID changed housing trends – Part 1
Key takeaways Housing values have surged since the onset of COVID. CoreLogic’s national Home Value Index (HVI) surged 32.5% between March 2020 and February 2024, adding approximately $188,000 to the median value of an Australian dwelling. Despite the strength in…
Simon Kuestenmacher’s Analysis of Decadal Shifts in Property
I’ve often said that demographic changes will be more important in shaping our property markets in the medium to long term than the ups and downs of interest rates or the vagaries of our economy, so I am pleased to…
Australia’s Top Investment Property Suburbs
Key takeaways Recent PropTrack data reveals the Australian suburbs with the strongest growth in house prices over the past 12 months. In many regions, top growth suburbs rose in value by more than 20%, but in some regions, the highest…
Property a priority for Gen Z women but affordability and investment major hurdles
Key takeaways Overall, females (68.2%) had slightly higher dwelling ownership rates than males (67.4%) More than half (51.6%) of Gen Z males own a dwelling, compared to just over one quarter of their female counterparts (27.3%) Overall, 14.1% of males…
Should you sell an underperforming apartment? Part 1
Key takeaways Over the past 13 years, Melbourne apartments have underperformed compared to houses, and the median apartment price has only increased by 2.6% per annum. This is a very poor outcome for investors, and many are considering selling underperforming…
Perth housing market update [video]
Housing values posted a broad-based rise in February, with CoreLogic’s National Home Value Index up 0.6%. The rapid rate of capital gains across the Perth housing market is showing no signs of slowing down, with values rising a further 1.8%…
House Prices in Australia Over the Last 10 Years
When it comes to buying an investment property, you want to make sure you’re putting your money into an investment-grade property in a growth suburb. Tips: Due diligence is key here, so it’s vital to do your research into location, demand levels,…
Two centuries of rapid global population growth will come to an end
Key takeaways Global population has increased rapidly over the past century. This period of rapid growth is temporary: the world is entering a new equilibrium and rapid population growth is coming to an end. Peak population growth was reached in…
High income earners stuck in a rent trap are exacerbating our rental crisis
Key takeaways Higher income earners are being increasingly caught in a rent trap as property prices soar nationwide, and it’s only worsening our rental crisis. The problem is twofold: higher rent prices mean higher income earners have to sacrifice more…
the tightest suburbs for home buyers are not where you think
Key takeaways The inner west, eastern suburbs, and northern beaches of Sydney are identified as the most challenging markets for homebuyers in Australia, with only 0.3% of homes available for purchase. Areas like Rockbank in Melbourne’s west and Leppington in…
One of the best pieces of advice I’ve heard from Warren Buffett
Key takeaways Warren Buffett reigns supreme as the greatest investor in history, with a personal fortune of around US$132 billion. Many years ago I learned that if you want to succeed in business or investing and get rich, it pays…
[Podcast] 40 years, 40 property investment lessons to crack the real estate code
Hindsight is a wonderful thing, isn’t it? Knowing what you know now, what would you have done differently if you had the opportunity to invest in property 10, 20, or even 40 years ago? Well, I’ve been investing for decades,…
What is going on in the new housing space?
Key takeaways Owner residents outnumber investors in new housing loans, indicating a preference for home ownership among individuals seeking new properties. Around 70% of investors opt for existing homes rather than new construction. There is a notable trend where twice…
Booms, busts and investor psychology – why investors need to be aware of the psychology of investing
Key takeaways Investment markets are driven by more than just fundamentals. Investor psychology plays a huge role and helps explain why asset prices go through periodic booms and busts. The key for investors is to be aware of the role…
The worst & the best property advice I’ve been given
Recently one of my nephews, who has taken a keen interest in property investment, asked: What’s the worst advice you’ve ever been given on real estate investing and what’s the best advice you could give me? The worst advice I…
[Podcast] The Federal inquiry into the rental crisis was a “waste of taxpayers” money, with Nicola McDougall
It has become more and more challenging for Australians to find a rental home since the pandemic started. Availability has plunged and rental rates have skyrocketed by as much as 33% in capital cities. Some locations show the vacancy rates…
Navigating Australia’s two-faced property market: insights from John McGrath
In the dynamic world of Australian real estate, we’re witnessing a tale of two markets, according to industry veteran John McGrath. According to McGrath, the contrast is stark: thriving luxury suburbs versus a more cautious lower-end market, each responding differently…
debunking myths and examining the economic landscape in Australia
There is a lot of misleading information out there about things economic and it seems even more so when you combine property and taxation. Negative gearing is a case in point. Australia is a one-off? For example, it has been…
Yes, paying a premium for property is sometimes essential: Here’s why
No one really wants to pay extra for a property purchase, do they? But there are situations where paying a premium makes good financial and investment sense. While you should never buy driven by your emotions, high-quality investment-grade property in…
The Latest Median Property Prices in Australian Cities
Key takeaways Australia’s housing upswing continued through February with the national Home Value Index rising 0.6%, the strongest monthly gain since October last year. While each of the capital cities and rest-of-state regions recorded a lift in values over the…
understanding and overcoming the fears that hold us back
Fear is a powerful emotion that shapes our lives in profound ways, often subconsciously. It can serve as a protective mechanism, alerting us to danger, but too often, it becomes a barrier, preventing us from reaching our full potential. So…
Should I buy property now or wait for interest rates to fall?
Key takeaways While there’s a temptation to wait for the perfect moment to buy property, attempting to time the market perfectly is difficult and often not the best strategy. Instead of trying to pinpoint the lowest prices or waiting for…
Are these Wealth Retreat people really crazy?
Have you ever wondered why the world any normal, sane person would set aside 5 days and pay so much money to join us at Wealth Retreat 2024? And why a large number of them would pay to come back…
Why smaller units are gaining popularity over larger houses
Recent trends reveal a fascinating shift in the housing market: the pandemic-driven appetite for larger homes is making way for a growing preference for smaller, more compact living spaces. This is particularly evident in the rental market. At the height…
When Will Australia’s Rental Crisis End?
Key takeaways Rental price growth has hit record highs, and there is now growing concern that the supply of rental homes could get even worse as higher mortgage costs hit landlords and government interference makes property investment less attractive. The…
Insights from Dr. Nicola Powell
A tenth of the year is already behind us, and as a person who’s interested in the property market, you’re probably wondering what’s coming over the remainder of the year. My guest today is Dr. Nicola Powel, Domain’s Chief of…
Stamp duty costs up to 6x higher than a generation ago: Victorians hit hardest
Property buyers in Victoria are paying 6.1 times more for stamp duty than just one generation ago. In Victoria, wages have increased a bit over five times and the median house price has increased just over 12-fold times in that…
New home demand soars amidst approval downturn
We know that we’re just not building enough homes despite soaring demand for more accommodation. According to PropTrack’s New Homes Report, December saw a 9.5% drop in total building approvals, a stark contrast to the modest 0.3% increase in November….
Predicted House Prices for Australia in 2030
Key takeaways According to Corelogic research, Australia’s national median dwelling value delivered a 6.8% annual growth rate over the 30 years to March 2022, with the 1992-2002 period providing the largest capital gains. The middle decade (2002-2012) saw national dwelling…
Why Labor’s Housing Strategy is a Road to Nowhere for Australians
Australians have a national sport that isn’t played on the field: it’s property talk. Whether it’s dissecting the latest market movements or bemoaning the uphill battle to break into the housing market, it’s a hot topic at every backyard BBQ….
What does Queensland’s 2011 experience tell us about the costs of stamp duty?
Key takeaways Stamp duty imposes a cost of moving equivalent to around 5 months of a person’s take-home. Recent survey results also show that it’s deterring people from downsizing, and is an unpopular policy generally Queensland’s 2011 stamp duty hikes…
navigating Australia’s economic landscape and property market outlook
Given the resilience in local and global economic growth over recent months – along with continued steady declines in inflation – it appears increasingly likely that a soft economic landing is probable this year. In Australia, the December quarter consumer…
5 ways I’m going to ensure my property investments outperform this property cycle
Key takeaways As we commence a new year, many of us will be focusing on the times we’ve experienced over the last few years and try and extract the lessons we’ve learned. Rather than do that, today I’d like to…
The Top 6 Insights on Creating Wealth Through Property
Today I wanted to share my top wealth-creating insights. One I learned from our premier property training event – our 5-day Wealth Retreat. You see… As I start preparing the curriculum for this year’s event that will be held on…
Understanding the sharp rise in unit rents across Australia
Key takeaways The Australian rental market has experienced a significant increase in weekly rents for both houses and units over the past year. Nationally, house rents rose by 10.5%, while unit rents increased by 17%. The trend was more pronounced…
Maximising Property Value: The Impact of Renovation
Renovations are a great way to make your home more functional, comfortable and liveable. They can also add significant value to your property, which is great if you are looking to sell sooner rather than later. However, not all renovation…
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. If the answer is yes, then they should invest in…
New data shows Aussies can now get into the property market earlier – but there’s a catch
Key takeaways The time required for a couple aged 25-34 to save a 20% deposit for an entry-level property has decreased compared to last year. However, significant hurdles remain due to record-high property prices and the rising cost of living….
The suburbs where luxury property has outperformed the strongest in the last 10 years
Key takeaways Luxury houses have seen strong price growth over the past decade compared to the median property on the market. In Sydney, luxury houses in Leichhardt, inner city and Pittwater areas increased 228% and 253% respectively – 30% higher…
198 Sydney suburbs where you can still buy a property for under $1 million
Sydney’s property market turned a corner in 2023, with prices rising consistently over the past 12 months and close to recovering to their pandemic peak. Sydney’s median house price is the highest across the country, at $1.4 million, while the…
A year of confusion, concern and consternation. The perfect environment for strategic property investors
Key takeaways The economic landscape in 2023 and 2024 has been marked by confusion and mixed messages, creating an ideal environment for strategic long-term real estate investors. Recognizing that different locations are at different stages of their property cycles, investors…
Maximizing Property Value with Solar Water Heaters
Pondering how to bolster your home’s worth, while also pitching in for Mother Nature? You might want to consider solar water heaters. Partnering with a trusted service like Metropolitan Plumbing is not only an eco-considerate solution, but it’s a tactically smart…
Is Australia set to miss its ambitious housing targets?
Key takeaways Australia is facing a severe housing crisis, with the need for more homes becoming increasingly urgent. The federal government aims to build 1.2 million new homes by 2029, but achieving this goal is becoming more challenging due to…
Gap widens between house and unit values- suburbs with the largest and smallest house premium revealed
Key takeaways Over the past four years, there has been a significant increase in house values compared to unit values, driven by factors like underlying land value, scarcity, and increased desire for space during the pandemic. The difference between median…
New report reveals mortgage trends shows Aussies tightened their belts in 2023
In 2023, the Australian property market witnessed a distinctive shift, as homeowners and investors navigated the changing financial landscape. According to PEXA’s latest Mortgage Insights Report, the total amount borrowed for property purchases across Australia was $300.9 billion, marking a…
Falling inflation – what does it mean for investors?
Key takeaways Inflation is in retreat thanks to improved supply and cooling demand. A further fall is likely this year. Australian inflation remains relatively high – but this mainly reflects lags rather than a more inflation prone economy. Profit gouging…
6 priceless investing lessons from influential billionaires
Key takeaways There are 2,640 billionaires globally, with a total net worth of $12.2 trillion, according to the 37th annual Forbes list published in 2023. And Australia is home to 139 of them. Billionaires offer a whole wealth of advice…
7 Critical Wealth Lessons You Must Understand
Key takeaways Many property investors have struggled to navigate the markets over the long term and achieve their financial goals. The majority of investors follow a flawed investment model. Investing from a place of ignorance is risky and can lead…
Regional Australia is losing its investment shine
The sun-drenched appeal of regional Australia, once a beacon for tree-changers, those escaping COVID-19, and property investors, is starting to dim. While an initial surge in property prices and remote-working flexibility fuelled a regional renaissance, the tide is turning. Affordability…
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 human psychology. Psychologists have shown that the mind of an…
Adelaide housing market update [video]
Australia’s housing upswing continued through the first month of 2024 with CoreLogic’s National Home Value Index rising by 0.4% in January. Housing momentum across the Adelaide market is carried into 2024, with dwelling values continuing to rise at more than…
Coastal property prices plunge up to $600k as regional markets lose appeal
Property prices in coastal towns have plummeted as much as $614,000 since their peak as demand for regional markets cools thanks to high-interest rates, tighter lending requirements and a change in working requirements. Following a five-year period of sharp growth…
How to overcome analysis paralysis when buying a property
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 long-term impact… especially if you get it wrong. The thing…