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

Your brain wants wealth, but it also wants comfort. In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down the science of why even smart people make dumb money decisions … and how you can use behavioural tricks to build wealth automatically.You'll learn:The two mental biases that secretly keep you poor Three money systems proven to grow your savings without willpowerThe surprising power of adding “friction” to stop bad financial habits before they startBy the end, you'll know how to outsmart your own brain, and turn wealth-building into something that happens automatically, not accidentally.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

An “interest-free mortgage” sounds incredible, but is it really what it seems? In this episode, Ed and Andrew delve into Liberty Trust's offer, examining how the scheme operates, identifying key red flags for investors to watch, and outlining essential questions to ask before making a decision.You'll learn:How Liberty Trust's interest-free loan scheme actually worksThe key risks hidden in donation-based lending modelsThree questions to test whether any deal is too good to be trueThis one's a must-listen for anyone who's ever seen a headline promising “free money.” Ed and Andrew unpack the facts, the fine print, and the faith behind one of NZ's most unusual lending schemes.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 are falling ... but does that mean you should break your fixed-term mortgage early? In this episode, Ed and Andrew unpack when it's smart to pay the break fee … and when it's just an expensive mistake.You'll learn:What break fees actually are (and how one investor paid a $20,000 penalty)How banks calculate these costs When breaking your loan makes senseEd and Andrew break down real-life examples, including a $150k break fee on a $5 million loan, and share a simple framework to decide if switching to a lower rate will actually save you money.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

Most people are taught that debt is bad. But Ed and Andrew explain why the right kind of debt can actually make you wealthy – if you know how to use it. From poor-kid lessons to multi-million-dollar portfolios, they break down how the rich use leverage to grow their assets (and how you can too).You'll learn:The key difference between good debt and bad debtWhy the rich use debt to buy appreciating assets — not liabilitiesThe two biggest risks that can destroy your portfolio if you get it wrongEd and Andrew also share how they overcame their fear of borrowing, why inflation secretly helps investors, and how to get comfortable using debt to grow your wealth.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

Amber and her husband bought their Auckland home at the height of the 2021 property boom. Four years later, they've smashed $200,000 off their mortgage, but the house still hasn't regained its value.In this episode, Ed and Andrew sit down with Amber to unpack how she's handled redundancy, financial pressure, and the emotional rollercoaster of waiting for recovery.You'll learn:How Amber and her husband stayed afloat after redundancyWhy emergency funds can make your financial resilienceWhat she's learned about discipline, mindset, and not letting online valuations dictate confidenceAmber's story offers a candid look at the unglamorous side of property ownership and why investors who hold steady through downturns are the ones who ultimately win.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

Thousands of Kiwis are making thousands of dollars ... without working an extra hour. In this episode, Ed and Andrew unpack how homeowners are getting up to $5,000 (or more) just by switching banks, and whether refinancing your mortgage every few years is really worth it.You'll learn:How cashbacks actually work, and how much the banks are offering right nowThe hidden costs, clawbacks, and fine print most people missThe 5 simple steps to get itEd and Andrew break down real examples, explain when the numbers stack up, and show how you can make your mortgage work harder.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

For over half a century, politicians have promised – and failed – to bring in a Capital Gains Tax.In this episode, Ed and Andrew trace the 7 times politicians have tried (and failed) to introduce it, revealing what happened to house prices each time.You'll learn:Every major attempt to introduce a Capital Gains Tax in NZ How each proposal shaped investor confidence and house pricesWhy has this policy become one of New Zealand's most consistent election failuresEd and Andrew unpack 50 years of political promises and broken tax dreams, and explain what history tells us about the odds of Labour's latest proposal ever becoming law.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

Labour has just unveiled its plan for a new Capital Gains Tax (CGT) – one aimed squarely at property investors. In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down exactly how it would work, who's affected, and what it could mean for the housing market if Labour wins the 2026 election.You'll learn:How the proposed 28% property-only CGT would be applied from July 2027What investors need to watch for – including partial gains and valuation trapsWhat this could mean for house prices, investor demand, and new buildsIf you own an investment property (or plan to), this episode will help you understand how this policy could reshape the NZ property market.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

Everyone budgets for a deposit and mortgage payments, but what about maintenance? In this episode, Ed and Andrew reveal the real cost of keeping your property in top shape (and how easily it can blow your budget).You'll learn:How much do you really need to spend each year The 5 biggest maintenance costs that catch investors off guardWhy cheap properties can still have expensive problemsFrom re-cladding to rewiring, Ed and Andrew show why maintenance can make or break your returns ... and how smart investors plan ahead for the big jobs before they hit.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

House prices are rising again … but is this the start of a genuine recovery, or just the usual Spring bounce?In this episode, Ed and Andrew dig into the latest data, bank forecasts, and trends to find out what's really happening in the property market.You'll learn:The latest house price data, and what “seasonally adjusted” really meansHow the big banks and the Reserve Bank expect prices to move in 2026The 2 numbers you must look at before trusting any property headlineHouse prices are climbing, but the recovery isn't uniform. Ed and Andrew reveal why some Kiwis are calling this a comeback, and why others think it's just a false start.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 the property market, scams evolve rapidly and are becoming increasingly difficult to spot. In this episode, Ed and Andrew expose the five biggest traps Kiwis could fall into in 2026, from misleading developer schemes to deceptive data that overpromises returns.You'll learn:How one investor lost $50k to a fake “lifetime property coaching” courseThe truth behind developer funds, rental guarantees, and dual-key scamsThe red flags every investor should recognise before signing anythingEd and Andrew break down real examples from inside the industry, including shocking tactics from property promoters and how to protect your hard-earned money.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

Sonja and Kurt spent two years working every weekend, juggling renovations, tenants, and full-time jobs – but their sacrifice is now paying off. In this episode, Ed and Andrew talk to the couple about how they went from a rural lifestyle block to a growing portfolio of investment properties.You'll learn:The tenant renovation nightmare that almost broke themWhat it's really like to self-manage a property when you don't live in the same townHow they're using profits from one property sale to buy three houses in three yearsThis case study is packed with real lessons about resilience, teamwork, and the reality of building wealth through property.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

From private jet to financial failure – this is the true story of Du Val, once one of New Zealand's high-profile property developers. In this episode, Ed and Andrew uncover how the company went from luxury branding and influencer marketing … to insolvency, raids, and hundreds of investors left out of pocket.You'll learn:What really happened when the FMA and police raided Du Val's foundersHow much investors are actually getting back, and who's losing everythingThe warning signs that'll help you avoid the next Du Val-style collapseThis episode dives deep into the culture of hype-driven property deals and how to protect yourself from developers who look rich on Instagram but are broke on paper.We mention our Opes Developer Database and Developers Opes Recommends(And the ones we don't!) on our website...click on the links to read.

Every landlord fears getting stuck with a bad tenant, but how likely is it really? In this episode, Ed and Andrew dig into thousands of Tenancy Tribunal cases (yes, with help from AI and a Russian data scraper) to find out the truth.You'll learn:The real odds of getting a bad tenant in New ZealandWhether property managers actually find better tenants than DIY landlordsThe 4 mistakes that almost guarantee you'll get a nightmare renterEd and Andrew reveal the hard numbers behind tenant behaviour — and the surprising reason why most tenants are actually better than you think.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

Everyone wants the perfect property – one that skyrockets in value, pays for itself, and doesn't cost a cent to buy. But Ed and Andrew reveal why that dream combo doesn't exist … and how every investment comes with trade-offs.You'll learn:Why you can only pick 2 out of 3: capital growth, cash flow, or no depositHow to use the Property Triangle to choose the right strategy for youReal examples showing how deposits, yield, and growth all impact your bottom lineThis episode breaks down the tough choices every investor faces, and helps you find the sweet spot that fits your goals, risk tolerance, and bank balance.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

From Spain's ghost towns to Japan's 86x land price surge, these real-world examples reveal what really happens when house prices go from hot … to hysterical.In this episode, Ed and Andrew unpack the most explosive property booms the world has ever seen, and what caused them to crash. You'll learn:The five biggest housing booms ever recorded, and what triggered themHow much prices actually rose before everything fell apartThe warning signs that appear before every major housing bubble burstsThese lessons aren't just history — they're a playbook for what might happen next. Because every boom follows the same pattern … until it doesn't.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

You've finally bought your first investment property, but what happens next? In this episode, Ed and Andrew walk through what your first 12 months as a property investor actually look like, step by step.You'll learn:What to expect in the first year – from finding tenants to managing cash flowHow to set up your accounts, top-ups, and inspections the smart wayThe #1 mistake first-time investors make (and how to avoid it)This episode highlights the everyday realities of being a landlord and provides guidance in establishing a strong foundation for long-term success.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

You've finally bought your first investment property, but what happens next? In this episode, Ed and Andrew walk through what your first 12 months as a property investor actually look like, step by step.You'll learn:What to expect in the first year – from finding tenants to managing cash flowHow to set up your accounts, top-ups, and inspections the smart wayThe #1 mistake first-time investors make (and how to avoid it)This episode highlights the everyday realities of being a landlord and provides guidance in establishing a strong foundation for long-term success.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

Buying one investment property can be scary, but buying two at the same time? That's next-level. In this episode, Ed and Andrew speak with Alice from Tauranga, who purchased two new builds before buying their own home.You'll learn:How Alice and her partner bought two properties at onceThe challenges of topping up mortgages during high interest ratesWhy building a long-term mindset matters more than short-term gainsAlice's story proves that even with high interest rates and uncertainty, smart strategy and perseverance can turn first-time investors into long-term wealth builders.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

Sometimes, even experienced investors walk away from a deal, and that's exactly what happened to Andrew. In this episode, Ed and Andrew go behind the scenes of a failed off-the-plan purchase in Christchurch and share what every investor can learn from it.You'll learn:The 5 red flags that warn your developer might be in troubleWhat happened when Andrew's apartment deal fell throughWhy walking away can sometimes be the smartest investing move you'll ever makeThis real-life story reveals the complex side of property investing, but also demonstrates how savvy investors safeguard themselves when things go awry.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

If your flatmate's boyfriend or girlfriend keeps staying over, it might be costing you more than you think. In this episode, Ed and Andrew crunch the numbers to reveal just how much those extra nights add up – and what to do about it.You'll learn:The real financial impact of a frequent overnight guestHow the new Flat Guest Cost-O-Metre calculator went viral on 1News and ZMHow to get your flatmate's partner to pay upFrom awkward conversations to laugh-out-loud examples, Ed and Andrew explain why this light-hearted tool is starting serious money talks in flats across New Zealand.Try out the Flat-Guest Cost-o-meter for yourself!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

Every investor faces the same question: Should I invest in property or shares? In this episode, Ed and Andrew sit down with Mark Lister, Investment Director at Craigs Investment Partners, to settle the debate once and for all.You'll learn:The key strengths and weaknesses of property vs shares (and which is best for your goals)Why Ed and Andrew sometimes get it wrong when talking about shares and managed fundsHow an expert investor like Mark balances property, shares, and diversification in his own portfolioThis conversation dives into risk, return, and research – and reveals what most Kiwi investors overlook when comparing these two asset classes.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

We talk a lot about how much you need in retirement. But here's the real question: what do retirees actually spend their money on once they stop working? In this episode, Ed and Andrew examine fresh Stats NZ data comparing the bottom 10% of over-65 spenders with the top 10%. The results are shocking.You'll learn:How some retirees survive on just $344 a week – and what that lifestyle really looks likeWhy the top 10% spend 6.7x more, splashing out on travel, recreation, and healthWhat happens in the “middle” – and how spending priorities shift as income changesThis episode reveals the hidden reality of retirement spending in NZ, from bare-bones survival to living it up with overseas holidays.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

How do you set up your bank accounts as a property investor?In this episode, Ed and Andrew discuss how to structure your bank accounts properly as a property investor – so you can stay organised, keep your accountant happy, and avoid a tax-time headache.You'll learn:The exact number of bank accounts you actually need (and why one per entity beats one per property)The #1 mistake that drives accountants mad, and how to fix it in 5 minutesHow to automate your payments and top-ups to make property management effortlessWe also reveal the simple tweaks that'll save you $483 a year, even without fancy accounting software.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

Is our Government really manipulating house prices?In this episode, Ed and Andrew discuss whether the New Zealand Government is quietly manipulating house prices, and the surprising reasons why they might want to.You'll learn:The top 5 ways politicians and policymakers influence property values (without admitting it)How rising house prices create a “wealth effect” that boosts spending and voter confidenceWhy some housing policies – even the well-intentioned ones – can push prices higherThis isn't about conspiracy theories; it's about understanding how government incentives, Reserve Bank decisions, and election cycles all affect the property market.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

From flipping burgers to flipping houses (almost)... How did Alex's McDonald's career give him the numbers skill to invest in?In this episode, Alex shares the key turning points that helped him move from crew member to property investor.You'll learn:How Alex turned his first home extension into the equity needed to invest Why did he partner with a mate to buy his first investment propertyHis bigger vision – from property investing to eventually buying into a $4 million McDonald's franchise.This Case Study Sunday shows that even in a regular job, you can build wealth with the right mindset, focus, and numbers behind you.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

Why can't you sell your house to your trust for just $1?In this episode, Ed and Andrew discuss why you can't just sell your house to yourself (or your trust) for $1 – even though it might sound like a clever move.You'll learn:How investors legally “sell their house to themselves” – and when it makes sense.The top 3 reasons Kiwis shift property ownership into trusts and companies.The #1 mistake investors make when restructuring ownership could trigger unexpected taxes.It's a must-listen for anyone thinking about asset protection, tax planning, or building a more secure portfolio. 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

Most Kiwis ask the wrong question when it comes to investing – they focus on returns, not risk.In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down what “risk” actually means in investing (and why your home might be riskier than you think).You'll learn:How to actually measure investment risk (with one simple equation).What the “standard deviation” is… and why it's the most important concept you've never heard of.How to compare the volatility of shares vs property, and what it means for your portfolio.Understand your risk before you invest. Learn how to calculate it for your own plan with this in-depth guide to property investment risk.And here is the link to the article Ed mentioned 'How risky is property vs shares vs managed funds?'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

The Reserve Bank just surprised everyone – cutting the Official Cash Rate (OCR) by 0.5%.In this episode, Ed and Andrew unpack what happened, why the cut was bigger than expected, and what it means for your mortgage.You'll learn:Why the economy's weaker-than-expected GDP pushed the RBNZ to act fastHow this surprise cut could drop the 1-year fixed rate to around 4.35%How much could you saveEd and Andrew also discuss what's next – when the next OCR cut could land and how far the Reserve Bank might go.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 how the "7 Must Have Tools For Every Property Investor In NZ"In this podcast you'll learn:what the tools arewhere to get themAnd how to use Opes+ Check out all the tools here:Can I afford an investment property?SortMe (click the link to get the discount)Area Analyser Developer DatabaseLive Net Worth Tracking (coming soon)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

As a property investor, you likely have many questions: Can I afford an investment property? Which one should I buy? How do I set it up right? In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down the 7 essential tools every property investor needs to plan, buy, and manage their portfolio in 2026 — all for less than $10 a month.You'll learn:The 2-minute tool that shows if you can afford an investment propertyHow to find the best investment areas with real-time dataThe new “Live Net Worth Tracker” helps you measure progress every monthWhether you're just starting out or managing multiple rentals, this episode shows how to use tech to make smarter, faster, and more confident investment decisions.Check out all the tools here:Can I afford an investment property?SortMe (click the link to get the discount)Area Analyser Developer DatabaseLive Net Worth Tracking (coming soon)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

Most Kiwis know about compounding returns, but few actually take advantage of them. Why? Because they're stuck thinking in days or weeks, rather than decades.In this episode, Ed and Andrew explain why short-term thinking keeps you broke, and how to shift your mindset to unlock long-term wealth.You'll learn:Why even smart people struggle to commit to investing How the wealthy think in decades, not days – and why that changes everythingThe free tool that forces you to confront your own timeline and rethink your money decisionsThis episode is a practical guide to delayed gratification, compounding returns, and how to think like the wealthy do.Try out our calculator to see how long your retirement savings will need to last.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

One senior politician has openly said what few dare to – house prices in New Zealand should fall. But is he really fixing the housing crisis, or just tinkering at the edges?In this episode, Ed and Andrew tested his policies and scored his performance so far.You'll learn:The three tests to figure out if the reforms are actually workingWhat's been delivered (like fast-track approvals) and what's still just political talkWhen – if ever – house prices could truly become affordable againThis episode digs into the heart of the housing debate: are bold promises finally turning into results?Don't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

In this episode, we sit down with Nick for a candid case study on building wealth through property while still making space for life. Nick has slowed his investing pace, but not because he's stopped progressing. Instead, he's made deliberate choices that balance financial growth with enjoying the present.You'll hear:How Nick has grown and reshaped his property portfolio over timeThe crucial step he took before buying a car (and why you should too)What he gave up to go to a friend's birthday partyThis episode reminds us that investing isn't just about numbers – it's also about flexibility, trade-offs, and building a life we want.Don't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

Most Kiwis watch the Official Cash Rate (OCR) to guess where interest rates are heading. But there's another number that actually drives your mortgage rates day to day.In this episode, Ed and Andrew go full nerd-mode to explain how swap rates work, why banks care about them, and how you can use them to predict future mortgage cuts (or hikes).You'll learn:What swap rates are and why they matter more than you thinkHow GDP shocks and economic surprises cause swap rates to dropA simple rule of thumb to see where mortgage rates could be heading nextIf you've ever wondered why banks don't instantly follow OCR announcements, this episode connects the dots and shows you where to find the real data.Don't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

You've heard of a double-dip recession. But did you know property downturns in NZ often follow the same “W-shaped” pattern? In this episode, Ed and Andrew explain how the latest housing slump has played out just like the 90s, the GFC, and 2021-24.You'll learn:Why recent property price data shows we've likely just hit the second dipThe historical patterns that prove New Zealand downturns often run in W-shapesThe key signs to watch to know when the recovery is realThis isn't about scare tactics, it's about learning from history so you can make smarter investment calls today.Don't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

The Tenancy Tribunal is where landlords and tenants battle it out, and sometimes the results are jaw-dropping. In this episode, Ed and Andrew unpack the five largest Tribunal cases they could find, and what they mean for landlords and tenants alike.You'll learn:Why one landlord had to pay $21,000 for renting out an unlawful propertyHow toxic lead paint and cockroach infestations cost other landlords dearlyThe staggering case of a tenant who racked up $49,000 in unpaid rentThese are the true stories that show just how high the stakes can be in property management.Don't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

A revolving credit mortgage can be confusing. Is it an overdraft? A savings account? Or just another type of loan? In this episode, Ed and Andrew explain revolving credit, how to use it properly, and the common mistakes Kiwis make.You'll learn:How to pay off your mortgage up to 20 years faster using the “Mortgage Buster” strategyThe difference between reducing and non-reducing revolving credits (and which one works best)The traps that catch out investors – like overspending, floating rates, and monthly feesThis episode will show you the step-by-step process if you've ever wondered how to make your mortgage work harder.Don't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

Every investor has felt that sinking feeling after a decision: "Did I just make a mistake?” In this episode, Ed and Andrew unpack investor remorse, who's most likely to feel it, and how to keep it from derailing your financial future.You'll learn:The two types of investor remorse — and which one haunts people most in the long runWhy “maximisers” feel regret more often than “satisficers” Practical steps to stop regret from leading you into poor money decisionsThis episode reminds us that hindsight is always 20/20, but smart investors focus on the future, not the deals they missed.Don't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

1.9 million Kiwis don't own the home they live in – but the reasons why go far beyond “greedy landlords” or “high house prices.”In this episode, Ed and Andrew discuss the data, myths, and structural changes that have reshaped the housing market.You'll learn:Why house prices have risen 4.7x since 2000, while incomes only grew 2.7xHow tougher bank deposit rules have made it harder for first-home buyersWhy lifestyle changes, later marriages, and even retirement villages distort the numbersThis isn't just about affordability, it's about how Kiwis live, borrow, and buy in 2025.Don't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

At 23, Sam was recovering from a life-changing accident with just $3,000 to his name. Fast forward to today, and he's built $800,000 in equity through property investing. In this episode, Sam shares his investing journey's real ups and downs. You'll learn:How Sam turned $3k into a property portfolio worth over $800k in equityWhy aggressively paying down debt gave him options when markets shiftedThe lessons he learned through mistakes and setbacksThis case study is a blueprint for Kiwis who feel they're starting from nothing but still want to build a future through property.Don't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

Not all work is created equal. Some tasks are worth $40 an hour… but others can build wealth at the equivalent of $10,000 an hour.In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down the high-value tasks, why most Kiwis avoid them, and how you can carve out time to focus on them.You'll learn:The difference between $40/hour busywork and $10k/hour wealth-building tasksWhy the most valuable moves are important but never urgentHow to use a matrix to prioritise what really matters for your financial futureThis episode will change how you think about time, productivity, and wealth-building. It will also show you how to focus on the tasks that move the needle.Don't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

Many landlords believe the Tenancy Tribunal is stacked against them, but is that actually true? In this episode, Ed and Andrew examine the data, the law, and 1,000 real Tribunal cases to uncover whether the system really favours tenants.You'll learn:What MBIE told us when we asked for Tribunal outcome dataWhat happened when we hired a data scraper and analysed 1,000 rulings ourselvesWhy the numbers show landlords often win more cases than most people thinkThis episode busts one of the biggest myths in property investing and gives you a data-driven look at how fair the Tribunal really is.Don't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

Ever wondered what sets the wealthy apart? It's not just luck – it's mindset, strategy, and action. In this episode, Ed and Andrew unpack the 7 lessons that the top 1% live by and explain how everyday Kiwis can apply them, too.You'll learn:Why the wealthy focus on long-term wins instead of chasing daily gainsHow to use leverage the smart way, without putting yourself at riskThe single biggest mindset shift that stops you from following the “average Kiwi script” This episode reveals how the rich think differently, and why small shifts in your approach could transform your financial future.Don't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

When disaster strikes, you hope your insurer will come through. But do they actually pay out – and when do they say no?In this episode, Ed and Andrew unpack the facts behind insurance payouts in New Zealand, including real case studies where claims were denied, underpaid, or fully covered. You'll learn:Why over 90% of claims get paid – but the small print still mattersThe top reasons insurers reject claims And 3 tactics you can use to avoid getting trapped by insurance companiesThis is a practical guide to understanding how insurance works and protecting yourself from nasty surprises.Don't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

Most properties don't start cashflow positive. In fact, the first year is usually the least profitable. But your rental income rises over time while your mortgage stays the same (or even falls).In this episode, Ed and Andrew explain why inflation is a property investor's best friend, and how it steadily turns money-losing rentals into cashflow machines.You'll learn:Why the first year of owning a rental is usually the hardest financiallyHow rent increases and fixed mortgages flip properties from negative to positive cashflowReal numbers showing how a property bought 20 years ago would now earn $388 more per weekIf you're wondering why investors have held properties for decades, this episode shows you the math behind patience.Don't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

Many Kiwis hit 40 and suddenly realise… “I've got almost nothing saved for retirement. What do I do?” In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down the five steps you need to take to get back on track – and why it's never too late to build a plan.You'll learn:How to calculate how “screwed” you actually are (without needing a budget)Why tweaking your timeline, income, or investment strategy can make retirement achievableThe 5-step process to reset your finances and create a practical plan you can actually stick toThis episode isn't about wishful thinking. It's a real roadmap for Kiwis who feel behind and want to take control today.Book your free wealth planning session to get your future sorted.Don't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

Marcus spent a decade searching for his first investment property. It hasn't all been smooth sailing, but it's changed how they see investing.In this episode, Marcus shares what it's like to take over tenancies, run inspections, and host open homes himself. You'll learn:How a 10-year property search finally led to buying two dwellings on one titleWhy self-managing tenants went from uncomfortable to empoweringWhat a $1.1M home + $985k in rentals + $500k business says about his overall strategyThis case study reveals the challenges and wins of going DIY, from awkward moments with tenants to gaining confidence as a landlord.Don't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

If you own an investment property, your property manager will send you inspection reports. But here's the catch – most landlords don't actually know what to do with them.In this episode, Ed and Andrew crack open real inspection reports from their own rentals to show you what matters, what doesn't, and how to avoid unnecessary stress.You'll learn:How to spot hidden problems before they become expensive repairsWhich issues are serious (and which are just cosmetic wear and tear)Why even brand-new properties can reveal surprising problems in reportsThis is a practical guide to making sense of inspection reports to protect your investment without sweating the small stuff.Don't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

Imagine this: you buy a brand-new property, but the shower is leaking, the bathroom is getting damaged… and the developer's gone bust. What do you do?In this episode, Ed and Andrew reveal the forgotten gem of NZ's legal system: the Disputes Tribunal. You don't need a lawyer, it only costs a couple hundred dollars, and you could win up to $30,000.You'll learn:How the Disputes Tribunal works (and how to apply online)Real cases where Kiwis fought back – from leaky showers to dodgy cat breedersThe 5-step process to prepare your case and maximise your chances of winningThis episode shows you how to fight back when things go wrong without breaking the bank.Don't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok

Build-to-rent (BTR) is taking off in New Zealand, with major players pumping hundreds of apartments into the rental market. But will this solve the housing crisis – or just make a small dent?In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down how build-to-rent works, who's behind it, and what it means for investors, renters, and the wider housing market.You'll learn:How BTR could add 25,000 new rental homes in the next decade – without a single one being soldWhy this might ease rents slightly, but have almost no impact on house pricesWhat NZ can learn from the US, UK, and Australia, where BTR is already much biggerThis episode cuts through the hype and asks: Is build-to-rent a game-changer, or just one small piece of the housing puzzle?Don't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok