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
What happens when your career has an expiry date? Ian West, a professional cricket coach, turned to property to secure his financial future.In this episode, Ed and Andrew chat with Ian about how he and his wife bought two investment properties, and how he's applying his coaching mindset to build long-term wealth off the pitch.You'll learn:How Ian turned financial uncertainty into a clear investment planWhy a sports mindset can be a powerful advantage in property investingThe moment he realised it was time to build a retirement safety netThis episode proves that you don't need a perfect career to build financial security; you just need a strategy that works beyond your day job.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
Banks are throwing around some of the biggest cashbacks we've ever seen – up to 1.5% just for moving your mortgage. In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down the banks' new massive cashback deals, who qualifies, and how long they'll last.You'll learn: Which banks are offering the biggest cashbacks The rules, clawbacks, and traps that could wipe out your profitHow do you get that massive cashbackThis episode helps you decide if chasing cashback is a smart financial move – or just a distraction.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 Labour brings in a Capital Gains Tax, does that mean investing in property is over, and shares become the better option? In this episode, Ed and Andrew run the numbers to find out which performs better once tax is factored in.You'll learn:Whether property still beats shares when a Capital Gains Tax appliesHow leverage shapes your total returnWhen shares actually outperform, and when property still wins bigUsing real modelling from Opes+, Ed and Andrew show how much more (or less) you could make from each investment after 15 years.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
Ever thought you were a shoo-in for mortgage approval … only for the bank to slash your borrowing in half?In this episode, Ed and Andrew unpack a real-life case study where a couple thought they'd secured a mortgage – until the bank said otherwise.You'll learn:The real reasons strong-looking applications get turned down4 actions you can take today to boost your mortgage approval chancesHow hidden factors quietly crush your borrowing powerEd and Andrew reveal what the banks really look for, and how a few clever tweaks can turn a “declined” into a “yes.”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 your first investment property is exciting, until you realise it already has tenants. What happens next?In this episode, Ed and Andrew walk through the exact steps to take when you inherit a tenant, from transferring the bond to managing your first inspection.You'll learn:The 6 key things you need before taking ownershipHow to handle the bond, rent increases, and tenancy agreements correctlyCommon mistakes new landlords make, and how to avoid themEd and Andrew share a real listener's story and break down what every investor needs to know before settlement day.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
Should you hire a property manager or manage the property yourself? In this episode, Ed and Andrew dig into the real numbers, time commitment, and stress levels to find out which approach actually makes sense.You'll learn:The actual cost difference between DIY and a property managerHow many hours will you actually spend managing your own rentalWhen hiring a property manager is a necessityEd and Andrew reveal why “saving” money by self-managing can backfire, and how the right approach depends on your time, location, and tolerance for tenant texts at 9 p.m.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 dream of a comfortable retirement – but what if you could retire filthy rich instead? In this episode, Ed and Andrew unpack five smart, practical strategies to help you hit the top 20% of retirees in New Zealand (that's around $1,630 a week).You'll learn:5 different retirement strategies that actually workHow to use your own home to fund your retirement without selling itWhy you might only need two properties to achieve financial freedomEd and Andrew reveal what it really takes to turn your house, investments, and income into lasting wealth – and why timing your property moves can make all the difference.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
At just 20 years old, Tony ran the numbers and decided five rental properties could set him financially free. Now in his 40s, he's well on his way – building a global property portfolio spanning the UK and New Zealand.In this episode, Ed and Andrew chat with Tony about how a spreadsheet turned into a real portfolio, the lessons learned along the way, and the pivotal decision to switch advisers mid-journey.You'll learn:How Tony used a 0% deposit to buy his first property in the UK — right before the GFCWhy he changed financial advisers (and how it transformed his strategy)The “Golden Goose” plan he's using to build long-term wealth and freedomTony's story is packed with real numbers, renovation wins, and a few financial mistakes that taught him more than any degree ever could.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
When the Reserve Bank cuts the OCR, how long does it actually take for the banks to follow? In this episode, Ed and Andrew dig into two years of real data to reveal which banks move fastest, how long rate cuts really take, and whether it's worth floating your mortgage before a drop.You'll learn:The median time it takes each major bank to cut rates after the OCR fallsWhich banks move the fastest (and which drag their feet)Whether floating before a cut could actually save you moneyEd and Andrew break down the numbers and show how timing your loan decisions could mean hundreds (or even thousands) in savings.And you can download your copy of the spreadsheet mentioned here.And you can check out the Current NZ mortgage interest rates here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
Big news for property investors – from 1st December 2025, the pet bond law takes effect, reshaping how landlords and tenants handle pets in rentals. In this episode, Ed and Andrew unpack what this means for both sides – when you can say no to pets, when you can't, and how to protect your investment under the new rules.You'll learn:How the new pet bond works When it's reasonable to decline a pet Why these changes actually strengthen landlord protectionEd and Andrew break down the grey areas so you know exactly where you stand, and how this law might finally balance the scales between tenant rights and investor security.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 built equity in your first home, so should you sell it or keep it as a rental when you upgrade? In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down one of the biggest questions homeowners face, revealing when keeping your home as an investment makes sense … and when it's a trap in disguise.You'll learn:How to tell if your home would make a good investment propertyThe mistake that makes investors think their rental is profitable (when it's not)How to compare your current home to other potential investmentsEd and Andrew show why the best decision isn't always the obvious one, and how running the numbers properly can mean the difference between a solid investment and a financial drain.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
Donald Trump wants to introduce 50-year mortgage terms in the US – a move that could shake global property markets.In this episode, Ed and Andrew explore what it means, why it matters, and whether something similar could ever happen here in New Zealand.You'll learn:How 50-year mortgages could make repayments cheaper – but homes more expensiveWhy longer loan terms might help more buyers get in (and push prices up)Whether New Zealand could follow the same path, and what that would do to affordabilityEd and Andrew reveal how this policy could boost borrowing by 20%, shift bank behaviour, and potentially drive the next property boom ... if it ever crosses the Pacific.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
Many Kiwis plan to sell the family home and buy something smaller to fund retirement. But does downsizing still work in 2025, or is it another myth about ageing gracefully?In this episode, Ed and Andrew explore when downsizing pays off and when it leaves you short. You'll learn:3 reasons downsizing fails and 4 times it actually worksHow timing (before 72) can make or break your planWhy some retirees walk away with less than $200k after sellingWhether you're dreaming of a smaller home or wondering if you've left it too late, this episode shows what it really takes to retire comfortably in New Zealand. 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
After 23 years in the market, a Wellington couple has lost half a million dollars investing in property. In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down the real reasons their plan fell apart, and what they (and others) could do to get back on track.You'll learn:Why property investing doesn't always work out – and when it can failThe biggest mistake investors make when structuring their debtHow getting the right advice could have saved this couple from losing $500,000Ed and Andrew explain how this story is less about property … and more about planning. And if you're close to retirement or wondering whether to stay in the game, this episode shows what to do next before it's too late.Click here to book your free Wealth Plan session with one of our advisers.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
At 14, Charlie biked to the local stockbroker's office with a cheque in hand to buy his first shares. 25 years later, that same drive had turned into a portfolio of 4 investment properties across Auckland and the Waikato. In this episode, Ed and Andrew sit down with Charlie to unpack how his early money lessons turned into a lifelong investing mindset.You'll learn:The real reason Charlie kept buying in the same Auckland apartment blockHow trust structures, dual-income properties, and mindset build long-term resilienceHow he's still finding ways to grow his wealth while balancing family lifeCharlie's journey proves that great investors aren't just lucky – they're consistent, disciplined, and willing to make sacrifices today for freedom tomorrow.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 best investment strategy changes as you do. In this episode, Ed and Andrew unpack how to invest at every stage of life – from your first job to your final pay cheque – and reveal the single most important number in investing (it's not what you think).You'll learn:What to invest in during your 20s, 30s, 40s, and beyondWhy your time horizon matters more than your income or returnsHow much do you actually need to invest each decade to reach your goal by retirementThis episode shows that what works at 25 could ruin you at 60, and that your investment strategy should evolve with 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
Is success all about hard work, or just being in the right place at the right time? In this episode, Ed and Andrew go head-to-head to debate whether it's effort, talent, or pure luck that determines who wins in life (and in investing).You'll learn:Why Andrew believes hard work is the biggest driver of successWhy Ed says luck plays a much bigger role than we like to admitHow to “bend luck in your favour” through education, risk-taking, and focusEd and Andrew explore how opportunity, timing, and preparation intertwine – and why the smartest investors know that while you can't control luck, you can control what you do when it shows 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
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
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