The Property Academy Podcast is a daily show that gives you insight, analysis and strategies for how to get the most out of the NZ property market. That's whether you're an existing or aspiring property investor, you want to get into your first home, or you're just interested in the property market. Andrew Nicol and Ed McKnight host the podcast. Andrew is the Managing Partner of Opes Partners and a prolific investor himself. Ed is an economist. Both Stuff and Juno Investment Magazine have previously published his analyses. https://www.opespartners.co.nz/investment/property-investment

Most property renovations don't make you rich. But the right renovation can dramatically increase your rent.In this episode, Ed and Andrew sit down with renovation expert Mark Trafford to uncover the renovation plays that actually move the needle on cashflow. You'll learn:The renovation plays that actually move the rentThe top 3 places to spend renovation dollars for cashflow The question you MUST ASK when choosing a building (that most investors don't)The interesting part? The best renovation isn't always the biggest or most expensive. Often it's the one that delivers the highest return for every dollar you spend.You can also follow Mark on Instagram at marktherenoguy for more renovation tips and project insights.Book a meeting to start your path to financial freedom with a detailed financial plan for $0.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

House prices don't just go up and down. Sometimes they get ahead of themselves.In this episode, Ed and Andrew count down the 5 most overpriced property markets in New Zealand for 2026.You'll learn:Top 5 most overvalued areas in New Zealand right now Why investors are still buying in a district that's 34% overvaluedThe #1 area most at risk of a property price crashThe surprising part? The area at the top of the list probably isn't the one you're thinking of. And some of the places investors love most made this list for a reason.Book a meeting to start your path to financial freedom with a detailed financial plan for $0.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

Most 22-year-olds are saving for their first home. Nick had already bought one ... and was busy renovating it. In this Case Study Sunday, Nick shares how he went from leaving school at 16 and working in construction to building a property portfolio across New Zealand. You'll learn:How Nick bought his first Auckland property at just 22 Then partnered with his mum to add $300k in value How he's going to buy 7 properties by the age of 30The interesting part? Nick isn't chasing flashy developments or complicated strategies. He's focused on finding undervalued properties, adding value where he can, and creating long-term cashflow through simple deals that stack up.Book a meeting to start your path to financial freedom with a detailed financial plan for $0.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

What does financial freedom actually look like?In this episode, Ed and Andrew share 3 real client case studies and the very different paths they're taking to build wealth through property. You'll learn:3 paths to financial freedom through propertyThe Kiwis who are building wealth through property right now The real strategies they're usingThe interesting part? All three couples are chasing financial freedom, but they're taking completely different paths to get there.Book a meeting to start your path to financial freedom with a detailed financial plan for $0.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

Property development looks simple on paper: Buy a site. Build a few townhouses. Make a profit. But once you run the numbers, the reality can look very different.In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down the real cost of developing property in New Zealand. You'll learn:What you must calculate before buying a development site How a development can lose more than $400k despite looking profitable at firstThe 4 costs first-time developers usually forget to include The surprising part? The biggest mistake isn't overpaying for the land. It's getting excited about the potential profit before you've worked through the numbers.Book a meeting to start your path to financial freedom with a detailed financial plan for $0.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

Buying a property with friends, siblings, or family can help you get on the ladder sooner. But what happens when you want to buy your next property?In this episode, Ed and Andrew unpack the different ways co-owners can move forward. You'll learn: How to use a co-owned property to help buy your next one The 6 siblings targeting $250K/year passive income Why some co-ownership structures can accidentally limit your future borrowing power The big lesson? Getting into a property together is usually the easy part. The real challenge is making sure everyone agrees on what happens next.Book a meeting to start your path to financial freedom with a detailed financial plan for $0.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

You buy a retirement home, expecting house prices to rise. Then the market falls. Now you're topping up the mortgage every week and wondering whether it's time to sell.In this episode, Ed and Andrew work through a real retirement property dilemma. You'll learn: The three options How long could it take for Wellington house prices to recover The common mistake many Kiwis make when buying a retirement property The hardest part? Sometimes the question isn't "which property should I sell?" It's whether you're asking the right question in the first place.Book a meeting to start your path to financial freedom with a detailed financial plan for $0.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

Most investors think they need a 30% deposit to buy an investment property. But that's not always true.In this episode, Ed and Andrew sit down with mortgage adviser Robert Cross to unpack the lending options available to investors with smaller deposits – including how some buyers are getting into investment properties with as little as 10% down. You'll learn:How to buy an investment property with a 10% deposit The non-bank lenders saying YES when the big banks say no The most common reason a bank says NO … and how to get the money anywayThe surprising part? A "no" from one lender doesn't always mean you're out of options. Sometimes it just means you're talking to the wrong bank.And if you want to talk to Robert, or any of the other advisers just reach out to Opes Mortgages for a free meeting.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

House prices are flat. Listings are piling up. Thousands of Kiwis are moving to Australia.So… why would anyone invest in New Zealand property right now?In this episode, Ed and Andrew tackle the 5 biggest arguments against investing in NZ property in 2026. You'll learn:5 reasons NOT to invest in NZ property in 2026 The counter-argument for each reason ...So that you can make the right call for youGood investment decisions don't come from hearing only one side. The smartest investors understand both the risks and the opportunities… then decide what makes sense for their own goals and situation.Don't forget to create your free Opes+ account and Wealth Plan here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

Thomas and Joanne own 6 properties, 10 tenancies, and a $4 million portfolio – all built while working full-time. In this Case Study Sunday, they share how they built a portfolio centred entirely in Levin, why they've continued buying in the same town for nearly a decade, and what they've learned along the way. You'll learn: How this couple built a $4 million property portfolio What they do with the $250,000 of rental income they get each year Their hardest won property learning... and what you can learn Perhaps the most interesting part? Even with Levin house prices down around 25% from their peak, Thomas and Joanne aren't worried – Their focus has always been on the long game.Don't forget to create your free Opes+ account and Wealth Plan here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

Renovating a property can make you a fortune.It can also go spectacularly wrong.In this episode, Ed and Andrew share 4 real renovation horror stories from New Zealand investors.You'll learn:Renovations gone wrong... and how much they can cost you The $120K bathroom blowout How one investor made $200 grand over Christmas with a Stanley knifeThe common thread? Most renovation disasters don't come from bad luck. They start with small decisions that seem reasonable at the time... until the costs begin to stack up.Don't forget to create your free Opes+ account and Wealth Plan here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

Interest rates fall. House prices rise. At least, that's what everyone says.But if that's true, why have New Zealand house prices barely moved after the OCR fell from 5.5% to 2.25%?In this episode, Ed and Andrew unpack the relationship between interest rates and property prices... and explain why the market hasn't behaved the way many expected.You'll learn:How much do house prices go up when interest rates go down How interest rates impact how much the bank will let you borrow Why have interest rates fell 3% recently, yet house prices have barely movedAnd here's the catch: lower interest rates help, but they're only one piece of the puzzle.Don't forget to create your free Opes+ account and Wealth Plan here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

Two New Zealand banks want to join forces and take on the Aussie giants.In this episode, Ed and Andrew unpack Heartland Bank's proposed $620 million acquisition of TSB – what it means for competition in the banking sector and why some people in Taranaki aren't convinced it's a good idea. You'll learn:The $620m merger is shaking up NZ banking Will more competition mean lower mortgage interest rates? What it means for you if you're a TSB or Heartland Bank customerThe real question? Is this the start of a stronger New Zealand-owned competitor in banking... or simply two smaller players combining forces without changing much for everyday borrowers?Don't forget to create your free Opes+ account and Wealth Plan here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

In this special bonus episode, you'll hear the audio from the recent Property Live webinar where we looked at "What Happens if NZ Super Gets Cancelled?"In this podcast you'll learn:How to figure out what your retirement actually looks likeThe biggest lie people tell you about retirementcreating the 'perfect' retirement planBook a meeting to start your path to financial freedom with a detailed financial plan for $0.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

A tenant demanded more than $10,000 over a missing duvet. Another claimed an oven was poisoning her...In this episode, Ed and Andrew unpack some of the wildest Tenancy Tribunal cases they could find.You'll learn:What happenedWhat the Tribunal decidedThe practical lessons landlords can actually take away from the chaosEvery one of these cases sounds unbelievable… until you realise they all ended up at the Tenancy Tribunal.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

What do New Zealanders actually want in a home?Not what they say in surveys… What they genuinely search for online.In this episode, Ed and Andrew unpack fresh search data from realestate.co.nz and Trade Me to reveal what buyers and renters are really looking for in 2026.You'll learn:What sort of homes do Kiwis really want New Zealand's most searched for suburb Who's REALLY looking for the housesThe broader takeaway? Property demand isn't random. The homes that attract the most attention tend to align with how real people actually search, filter, and compare properties online.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

“Don't buy now… just wait for the next crash.”Sounds smart. But what if waiting for the “perfect time” actually leaves you worse off?In this episode, Ed and Andrew unpack the surprising maths behind market timing. You'll learn:Why the “bottom of the market” often isn't the cheapest time to buy How consistent investing can outperform perfect timing The psychological trap that keeps investors waiting too long Main lesson? The biggest gains usually come from time in the market ... not predicting exactly when prices will rise or fall.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

Jim walked out of maths class at 16 to start working in civil construction.Today, he owns two rental properties, is pushing toward a third… and is currently “shedvesting” from a garage sleepout to get ahead faster.In this Case Study Sunday, Jim shares the setbacks, risks, and sacrifices behind his investing journey. This is a story about resilience as much as it is about property investing. You'll learn:How this investor left school at 16 … and now has 2 investment properties The messy court battle that nearly cost him everything The crazy sacrifices he's making RIGHT NOW to get ahead in lifeThrough all the setbacks, one thing stands out: Jim just keeps moving forward. And that mindset might be the biggest reason he's getting ahead.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

That beautiful character villa might look like an investor's dream… until you realise it's heritage-listed.In this episode, Ed and Andrew unpack what heritage protections actually mean for property owners ... and the answer isn't as straightforward as most people think. You'll learn:The 9.6% PENALTY for individually heritage-listed houses What you can and can't do The 5-minute heritage checkMain idea? Character homes can absolutely make great investments ... but only if you understand the restrictions before you buy. For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

“Greedy landlord raises rent.” “Investors cash in while renters struggle.”Property headlines can feel relentlessly negative… but is the media actually biased against landlords?In this episode, Ed and Andrew dig into the research behind property coverage in New Zealand media ... and run their own experiment scoring real headlines from major outlets across the country. You'll learn:What academic research says about whether the NZ media is pro- or anti-property investors Which media outlets appeared more pro-landlord or anti-landlord in their analysis What one study found when they looked at 598 housing articlesAlthough some headlines may appear negative, the broader context tells a different story.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

How long does the average tenant actually stay in a rental property? And what happens when a tenant leaves after just 2 days?In this episode, Ed and Andrew unpack tenancy data from 22,000+ rental properties to reveal how long tenants really stay, which areas have the highest turnover, and why vacancy assumptions matter more than most investors realise. You'll learn:The median tenancy length across thousands of New Zealand rentals Why central-city apartments tend to have far higher tenant turnover The hidden financial impact of vacancy periods and tenant replacement costs The big insight? The type of property you buy, and where it's located, can dramatically affect how often you're searching for a new tenant.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

Higher yield. Two incomes. Better cashflow.So why doesn't every investor just buy multi-income properties?In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down the pros and cons of multi-income properties. They unpack where these properties shine… and where the trade-offs start to matter. You'll learn: The 5 main types of multi-income properties in New Zealand Why do these properties often achieve high gross yields The hidden downsidesMain idea? Multi-income properties can generate stronger cashflow… but a higher yield doesn't automatically mean better long-term wealth. For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

Every property investor eventually asks the same question: “What's this house actually going to cost me over the next 10 years?”In this episode, Ed and Andrew sit down with Kyle Brookland, a building inspector, to break down the real maintenance costs of owning property. You'll learn:How much you'll need to maintain your house over 10-years How to spot the specific traps in a 1950s vs 1960's vs 2000s house The silent damage hotspots that drain landlord walletsMain idea? The better you understand the warning signs, the fewer nasty surprises you'll face later.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

Andrew bought his first property at 19. Now, after 23 years in the game and 43 properties later, he's sharing the lessons most investors only learn the hard way.In this episode, Ed puts Andrew in the hot seat ... unpacking the strategies that worked, and what really matters when building long-term wealth through property.You'll learn:What Andrew actually looks for when buying an investment property The advice Andrew gives clients that he doesn't follow himself Whether the classic NZ property strategy still works in an era of higher interest ratesProperty investing isn't about copying someone else's exact strategy. The key is understanding the principles behind the decisions ... not just the tactics.Start your path to financial freedom with a detailed financial plan for $0For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

Seb and Laura arrived in New Zealand with just two bags of clothes. Less than a decade later, they own two properties – with plans to grow to five.In this Case Study Sunday, the couple share how they went from starting over as immigrants to building a property portfolio through disciplined budgeting, structures systems, and an incredibly detailed approach to tracking their money.You'll learn:How these investors went from moving to NZ with just 2 bags of clothes … to now owning 2 investment properties The insane amount of time it took them to pay off a $60k revolving credit What they'd do differently if they started againMain lesson? Building wealth doesn't always come from huge incomes or perfect timing. Sometimes it's the consistency that creates momentum over time.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

Donald Trump reportedly used a US$916 million tax loss to avoid paying federal income tax for years.So… could a New Zealand property investor do the same thing?In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down how tax losses actually work in New Zealand property investing, and the common misunderstandings that trip investors up. You'll learn:How rental property tax losses can reduce future taxable income Why Trump-style tax strategies don't really work the same way in NZWhat actually happens to accumulated tax losses when properties are sold Main idea? Tax losses can absolutely be valuable, but they're far more limited than most investors realise. For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

Simran Kaur achieved financial independence at just 29 years old. Then… she realised retirement wasn't what she expected.In this episode, Ed and Andrew sit down with the founder of Friends That Invest to unpack how she built enough wealth to retire early, and why retirement lasted less than a week.You'll learn:How this Kiwi investor built wealth and retired at 29 What her 60 years of retirement REALLY looks like The surprising thing she learned about retirement that no one ever tells youMain lesson? Financial freedom isn't just about escaping work, it's about having enough flexibility to choose how you spend your time. Reaching the number is one thing… figuring out what comes next is something completely different.You can follow Simran and check out her free budgeting tools, podcast, and investing resources at friendsthatinvest.com.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

The Reserve Bank kept the OCR at 2.25% … but the real story was hidden inside the forecasts.In this episode, Ed and Andrew unpack the Reserve Bank's latest projections for inflation, the OCR, unemployment, and house prices – including why interest rates could rise faster than previously expected. You'll learn:What the Reserve Bank announced Interest rate predictions … and how expensive your mortgage could getWhen the Reserve Bank thinks the price of petrol will get back to normal.The big question now? If inflation keeps rising because of global oil prices – while New Zealand's economy stays weak – what exactly is the Reserve Bank supposed to do next?For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

Australia is overhauling investor tax rules ... and some Kiwi property owners could get caught in the crossfire.In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down Australia's proposed changes to capital gains tax and negative gearing, including why some investors could end up paying significantly more tax… even on New Zealand properties. You'll learn:How Australia just doubled it's capital gains tax The fish-hooks that mean you could pay this extra tax … even if your're a kiwi Could this spread to New ZealandTax rules don't stop at borders. If you live, work, or plan to move overseas, your property strategy can quickly become more complicated than most investors realise ... especially when governments start changing the rules.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

A landlord said no to a tenant's Labrador. The Tenancy Tribunal said yes.In this episode, Ed and Andrew unpack the first major Tenancy Tribunal ruling under New Zealand's new pet laws – including what counts as a “reasonable refusal,” why the landlord lost, and what this means for rental property owners going forward. You'll learn: Why landlords can no longer simply say “no pets” by default The conditions the Tribunal imposed before allowing the dog What arguments are – and aren't – likely to hold up at Tribunal Main lesson? The rules around pets have fundamentally changed. Landlords can still refuse animals in some situations… but they now need clear, evidence-based reasons that would stand up under scrutiny.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

Should New Zealand introduce a capital gains tax… or would it do more harm than good?In this episode, Ed and Andrew go head-to-head on one of the biggest issues heading into the 2026 election – laying out the strongest arguments for and against a comprehensive CGT. You'll learn: The case for a CGT – including whether it could fund lower income taxes The case against – from reduced investment to the “lock-in effect” Why New Zealand is an outlier compared to most OECD countriesMain idea? This isn't a simple yes-or-no policy. A capital gains tax changes behaviour, incentives, and how wealth is created. The real question isn't just “is it fair?” It's what kind of economy New Zealand wants to build.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

Shaun left school at 15, started working at the meat works… and bought his first home at just 19 years old.In this Case Study Sunday, Shaun shares how growing up in Southland shaped his attitude toward money, how he paid off his first property in just 10 years, and why he's now thinking carefully about his next move while living and working in Perth. You'll learn:How this investor bought his first house at 19 How he grew his property portfolio The change he's making NOW to prepare for his futureMain lesson? Property investing doesn't always start with a perfect strategy or deep financial knowledge. Sometimes it starts with strong saving habits, taking action early, and slowly figuring things out as you go.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

Thinking about selling your house privately to save on agent fees?In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down the real numbers behind private sales vs using a real estate agent. They unpack when selling privately can genuinely work, and when it quietly backfires. You'll learn:How agent commissions actually compare to the price premium agents often achieve The situations where private sales work best and where they usually struggle The legal and negotiation risks that many private sellers don't think about Main lesson? Saving money on commission doesn't automatically mean you make more money overall. The best method depends on your property, your market, and whether you've got the skills to handle the process yourself.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

Most investors assume retirement means selling properties to free up cash. But what if you didn't have to?In this episode, Ed and Andrew explore a lesser-known strategy, walk through when it might make sense, and discuss the risks that could catch people out. You'll learn:How some retirees could potentially access equity without selling their rentals Why timing matters... especially before you stop working The pros, cons and alternativesThere may be ways to unlock equity without selling… but only if the numbers, timing, and risk tolerance all line up properly.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

Most Kiwis automatically choose a principal-and-interest mortgage. But for investment properties… that's not always the strategy investors use.In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down the real difference between interest-only vs principal-and-interest lending.You'll learn:Why many investors prioritise cashflow over paying down rental debt fasterThe hidden risk when an interest-only term ends The strategies investors use to extend interest-only lending over time Main idea? Interest-only lending isn't about avoiding debt forever, it's about where you choose to direct your money. Used well, it can improve flexibility and cashflow. Used poorly, it can create serious pressure later on.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

Thinking about turning your property into an Airbnb? You might need more than just a listing and a lockbox.In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down when you actually need council consent to run an Airbnb, and unpack the risks most investors don't think about until it's too late. You'll learn:When Airbnb activity crosses the line from “casual” to requiring consent Why neighbours and body corporates can become the biggest roadblocks How to improve your chances of getting approval before you even apply Airbnb investing isn't just about the numbers – it's also about compliance, neighbours, and local council rules. A seemingly great investment can quickly turn into a headache if you don't understand the process.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

An old church. A near-$1 million budget. And a possible Airbnb conversion in Timaru.So… would Andrew actually invest in it?In this episode, Ed and Andrew walk through a real deal that Andrew looked at. They break down the renovation costs, Airbnb assumptions, and the harsh reality. You'll learn:How to analyse an unusual renovation project step-by-step Why heritage-style properties can become financial traps The biggest risk with complex renovationsMain idea? A property can look incredible and still be a bad investment. The best investors don't just fall in love with the story, they stay disciplined enough to walk away when the maths don't work.Book a meeting to start your path to financial freedom with a detailed financial plan for $0.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

You don't have an income problem… You might have a spending problem.In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down 7 things Kiwis keep buying that quietly destroy their ability to build wealth. You'll learn:The biggest “wealth killers” How small, everyday spending can quietly eat up 15% of your incomeThe 1 rule that keeps you sane … while you save moreWhat this really comes down to: building wealth isn't just about earning more, it's about what you keep. Start your path to financial freedom with a detailed financial plan for $0For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

Mitch grew up watching his family lose everything in the GFC. Now, he owns 15 rental units.In this Case Study Sunday, Mitch shares why he focuses on cashflow over flashy properties, and how he's using social media to show everyday Kiwis what's possible through property investing. You'll learn:How this investor bought 15 rental units with average incomes in just three yearsHow this multi-unit deal in Rotorua changed everythingHow he's now getting a 13.5% gross yieldMain lesson? Great deals rarely fall into your lap. The investors who succeed long-term are usually the ones willing to learn deeply, move fast, and stay disciplined enough to wait for opportunities that genuinely stack up.And to see more from Mitch here are the links to his Instagram and TikTok.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

What does it actually take to pay off your mortgage in 10 years… not 30?In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down 5 proven mortgage strategies used by real Kiwis – including a tradie who smashed his mortgage on a modest income, and families who became mortgage-free decades early. You'll learn:The exact strategies that actually move the needle Why even $50–$200 extra per week can save you years – and over $200k in interestHow these 3 Kiwi families paid off their mortgages in 6, 10, and 12 yearsMain idea? Paying off your mortgage faster isn't about one big move, it's about consistently doing the small things that chip away at the principal. Done right, those small changes can cut years (or decades) off your loan.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

Thinking about turning your property into an Airbnb… but no idea what it actually costs?In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down the real cost of setting up a short-term rental – from big-ticket items like beds and appliances to the small details most people forget. The numbers might surprise you. You'll learn:How much does it cost to fully furnish an Airbnb The must-have items in every room (and where you can save vs where to spend) The hidden costs – including a 15%+ fee that eats into your revenue Main idea? Airbnb can boost your income… but only if the numbers stack up. For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

Most Kiwis think investing is simple… until tax comes into play.In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down how different investments are actually taxed – from term deposits and shares to funds, crypto, and property. And once you see the differences, it's easy to see how investors can overpay (or underpay) without realising it. You'll learn: How tax works across term deposits, shares, funds, and property The “wealth tax” on overseas shares – and why you might pay tax even if your investment goes down How to get a lower tax rate on these investmentsWhat this really comes down to: investing isn't just about returns, it's about what you keep after tax. And if you don't understand the rules, you could end up paying more than you need to… or facing a surprise bill later.And you can check out Kendons: Chartered accountants and business advisors website by clicking the link.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

In this special bonus episode, you'll hear the audio from the recent Property Live webinar where we looked at "How to earn $100k passive income in 15 years (through property)"In this podcast you'll learn:How to build your planWhat sort of properties suit your planAnd how to retire rich at 55Don't forget to create your free Opes+ account and Wealth Plan here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

Are you paying more tax than you need to… without even realising it?In this episode, Ed and Andrew play “Pilfered or Protected” – walking through real scenarios to show how different ownership structures can either protect your profits… or quietly drain them. You'll learn: The 4 main ways to own property – and when each one makes sense How the wrong structure can cost you thousands in unnecessary tax Why sometimes the smartest move is actually to pay more tax Main idea? Tax isn't just about how much you earn, it's about how you structure it. Get it right, and you keep more of what you make. Get it wrong, and you could be handing over more than you need to.And check out Opes Accounting to get a free tax consult.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

What actually makes a “good” floor plan for an investment property… and what quietly puts tenants off?In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down what to look for (and what to avoid) when it comes to floor plans.You'll learn: The key features of a strong floor plan The common mistakes investors make (and why they matter more than you think) When it's still worth buying a property… even if the layout isn't perfect There's no such thing as a perfect floor plan... just better trade-offs. The goal isn't perfection… it's buying something that works well enough for the price, and knowing what you can (and can't) fix later.Book a meeting to start your path to financial freedom with a detailed financial plan for $0.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

What's the fastest way to make $1 million from property?In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down the 5 most common property investing strategies. You'll learn: How long does it take to make $1M through the top 5 strategies How many deals would you need to do Which strategies are investments… and which ones are really just high-paying jobs Main idea? There's no single “best” strategy, but they're not equal either. Some take decades. Others take years but come with serious risk and effort.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

They lived in a 26sqm tiny house for 8 years… then sold it for double what it cost to build.In this Case Study Sunday, Hilde and Michel return to share what's happened since – from selling their tiny home to building a 3-property portfolio, all while keeping their long-term goal of flexibility and sabbaticals front of mind. You'll learn:How living in a tiny house helped them accelerate their investing journeyWhat it's really like living in 26sqm – and whether it was worth it How they built 3 houses in just 3 years.Main idea? It's not about doing exactly what they did, it's about designing a life that supports your financial goals. For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

Why do so many people start investing… and then quit?In this episode, Ed and Andrew use a simple analogy – the gym – to explain why building wealth is less about knowledge… and more about behaviour. You'll learn:Why people who go to the gym are the best investors 5 similarities between going to the gym and investing The one thing you should do NOW if you've been putting it off for yearsMain idea? Getting ahead financially isn't about knowing more, it's about sticking with the basics long enough to see results. The people who succeed aren't perfect… they just don't quit.And check out our list of the Top 10 Financial Advisers in NZFor more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

A developer says this property gets a 15.4% gross yield… but does it actually stack up?In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down a real-world Airbnb deal in Queenstown to show how headline numbers can look incredible... until you dig into the assumptions behind them. You'll learn: How a 15.4% yield is calculated Whether the numbers check out… or are just a flat-out fabrication Why looking at net yield (not gross) gives a much clearer picture What this really comes down to: the numbers aren't always wrong… but they're often presented in a way that makes them look better than they are. If you don't run the full calculation yourself, it's easy to be misled.Book a meeting to start your path to financial freedom with a detailed financial plan for $0.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

If you own a cross-lease property… this could change everything.In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down a major Court of Appeal decision that's been called the biggest shake-up to cross-lease rules in decades. You'll learn: What the court changed and why the old rules were deemed “wrong in law” How does this impact your ability to renovate, extend, or rebuild Whether cross-lease properties could now become more valuableMain idea? It may now be easier to get consent from neighbours, but nothing is guaranteed yet. The ruling could still be appealed, and the practical hurdles (plans, surveys, council approvals) remain very real.Book a meeting to start your path to financial freedom with a detailed financial plan for $0.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

You've got a lump sum of money… and deep down, you know you're going to spend it. So how do you stop yourself?In this episode, Ed and Andrew walk through 4 practical ways to “lock up” your money. You'll learn:How to FORCE yourself not to spend moneyThe 4 levels of lockup – from easy to extremeWhy adding friction can stop impulse spending in its tracks The key takeaway? If you know your weak spots, you can design systems that protect your future… even when willpower runs out.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok