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
Loan sharks are still operating in New Zealand – charging desperate families up to 800% interest for small loans to cover basics like food, rent, and power bills. In this episode, Ed and Andrew sit down with Vijay Farley-Naiker from Ngā Tāngata Microfinance to expose the tactics these lenders use, and what support is available for those trapped in debt.You'll learn:How loan sharks lure people in with “cash now, no checks” promises – and why it's a trapThe shocking interest rates and hidden fees borrowers actually faceWhat support services exist to help Kiwis break free from the cycle of debtThis episode shines a light on a hidden issue affecting thousands of households across Auckland and beyond.Don't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
Developers often pitch furniture packages as a quick and easy way to get your new property rental-ready. But are they really worth the $35,000 price tag … or are you just paying for convenience?In this episode, Ed and Andrew dig into a real example of a $35k furniture pack for a Queenstown townhouse and compare it against what you'd spend furnishing the same property yourself.You'll learn:What's actually included in a $35k furniture package (and how much the same items cost from mainstream retailers)The 3 simple tests to tell if a furniture pack is good value … or a rip-offWhen it makes sense to pay for convenience, and when you're better off doing it yourselfIf you're considering a New Build or an Airbnb property, this episode gives you the framework to make sure you're not overpaying for “extras.”Don't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
Some tenants say landlords are greedy, careless, or even exploitative. And while many investors are fair and responsible, there are real horror stories that explain why tenants sometimes feel this way.In this episode, Ed and Andrew dig into the frustrations tenants talk about most – from sudden rent hikes to mouldy houses and landlords who show up unannounced. They also share what it actually takes to be a landlord that tenants respect rather than resent.You'll learn:4 shocking stories that reveal why tenants often feel burnedThe biggest complaints tenants have (and how to avoid being “that landlord”)A simple framework to build better landlord-tenant relationshipsIf you want to grow your wealth without damaging your reputation, this episode shows you how to invest smarter and keep your tenants onside. Don't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
“House prices crash!” “Full-blown meltdown!” The headlines scream disaster, but is the media really telling the truth … or just playing with your emotions?In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down how Stuff, the Herald, and OneRoof frame the property market — and why their clickbait headlines might be costing you money if you panic and make the wrong move.You'll learn:Why negative headlines get more clicks (and how our brains are wired to react to them)The 3-step process to decode any scary property story and separate fact from fictionThe hidden downside of pulling back from investing just because of media hypeIf you want to protect yourself from being spooked into poor decisions, this episode gives you the tools to see through the noise and invest smarter.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 countries are created equal when it comes to property investment. In this episode, Ed and Andrew put different markets head-to-head — scoring them on tax rules, house price growth, rental yields, affordability, and whether Kiwis can even buy there.From the US and UK to Spain, Dubai, Australia, Singapore, and New Zealand itself, you'll hear the good, the bad, and the ugly of investing overseas.You'll learn:Which countries deliver the best long-term returns for investorsThe markets where taxes and regulations crush your profitsWhy New Zealand still ranks near the top — despite high house pricesIf you've ever thought about investing beyond NZ's borders, this episode gives you the framework to compare international markets and spot the traps before you jump in.Don't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
Karen and her husband have built a 3-property portfolio … but was every purchase a winner? In this episode, Ed and Andrew unpack their journey, the choices they made, and whether one of their Hamilton investments was actually a mistake.You'll learn:How this couple managed to buy 3 properties while paying off their personal mortgage earlyWhy two of their Hamilton investments raised doubts — and whether selling might make senseThe big financial milestone they're about to hit (and what it means for their future strategy)This case study reveals the challenges real investors face — and the tough calls you may need to make in your own portfolio.Don't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
Most first-home buyers start by scrolling listings on Trade Me and guessing what they can afford. But that's often misleading – because sellers (and agents) control which price bracket their property appears in.In this episode, Ed and Andrew walk you through a step-by-step process to find the right property and avoid overpaying — and the whole thing can be done in under 22 minutes.You'll learn:Why “listings are vanity, sales are sanity” when working out what you can affordThe websites you should actually use to find real sale prices (and how to get the photos agents try to hide)How to build your own mini-database of comparable sales to know if you're getting a good dealIf you want a practical, no-fluff guide to buying smarter, this episode is for you.Don't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
Sometimes the truth hurts – but it's what you need to hear if you want to build real wealth. In this episode, Ed and Andrew share 8 pieces of brutal money advice that cut through the fluff and force you to face your financial future.You'll learn:Why wanting to be rich isn't enough (and what actually moves the needle)The limit of cutting back – and why earning more is often the only answerThe rare skill factor: why two people can study the same degree but earn vastly different incomesThis episode isn't about beating yourself up for past mistakes. It's about giving you the no-nonsense truths that can save you years of wasted effort – and even add $20k a year to your bottom line.As mentioned, here is the How Much Will Your Retirement Cost calculatorAnd don't forget to create your free Opes+ account here to create your Wealth Plan.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
It's the nightmare scenario every investor worries about: the market crashes, your property value halves, you lose your job … and you're left with nothing but debt.In this episode, Ed and Andrew tackle that fear head-on. They walk through what a true worst-case scenario might look like – and why it's often not as devastating as you think once you break it down.You'll learn:The 3-step process to work through the fear of losing everythingWhy even in downturns, most Kiwi property owners still make a profit on resaleHow to weigh the upside against the downside (with real numbers from NZ property data)This episode isn't about ignoring risk – it's about putting it into perspective so you can keep investing with confidence.Don't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
One investor in Rolleston just saw their council rates nearly double overnight – going from $2,351 to $5,117 a year. That's a 118% jump. What on earth is going on?In this episode, Ed and Andrew dig into the story behind the shock rates bill, why new builds are especially at risk, and how you can make sure you're not blindsided by the same problem.You'll learn:Why brand-new properties can see rates skyrocket once the house is completeThe real reason this Rolleston street saw rates bills almost double across the boardHow to challenge your rates bill if you think it's wrong – and how to budget for the increases if it's notThis is a must-listen if you're buying or building in fast-growing districts like Selwyn, where rates hikes are well above the national average.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 assume that once they hit 65, they'll automatically qualify for NZ Super. But that's not always the case. In fact, thousands of people will miss out entirely – even if they're New Zealand citizens.In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down the surprising rules that can stop you from receiving Super, and the “gotchas” you need to watch out for. You'll learn:The exact criteria you need to meet – including how long you must have lived in New ZealandWhy spending too much time overseas could see your Super cancelledHow foreign pensions (like UK or US state pensions) can reduce – or even wipe out – your NZ Super paymentsNZ Super isn't an entitlement; it's a benefit. That means you need to play by the rules to qualify. Don't get caught out.Here is the link to check if you meet the criteria for NZ SuperDon't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
Most investors think the biggest risk is choosing the wrong strategy. But the real danger isn't what you invest in … it's how you behave.In this episode, Ed and Andrew reveal the $200,000 mistake most investors don't realise they're making: switching in and out of investments at the wrong time. We show you how emotional decisions can quietly drain your returns – and why staying the course often beats “tinkering” with your portfolio.You'll learn:Why investors often earn less than the very funds they invest inHow switching from property to property (or fund to fund) racks up huge hidden costsThe power of patience: why doing nothing can sometimes make you the most moneyDon't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
Dan and Marie from Wellington took on a challenge most Kiwis wouldn't dare – they built not one, but two of their own homes. In this episode, they share the ups and downs of going DIY, what they'd never do again, and how that hands-on experience shaped their journey into property investing.You'll learn:What really happens when you pick up the hammer and try to build your own homeWhy they shifted from DIY builds to investing in new-builds (and why Christchurch was their pick)How they're now balancing family life, a new business, and the goal of $100k in passive incomeThis is a story about building wealth in every sense of the word – from bricks and mortar to financial freedom.Don't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
What would you do if your investment property dropped nearly $200,000 in value? In this episode, Ed and Andrew tackle one of the toughest calls an investor can face – whether to sell at a loss or hold on and ride it out.You'll hear about a real listener who bought a new-build in Kāpiti Coast that's now worth $196,000 less than he paid. Instead of leaving the market altogether, he's asking: should I sell this property and reinvest in Auckland?You'll learn:The 3 tests that reveal whether to sell or hold onWhy switching one growth asset for another isn't always a mistakeThe real costs of selling (and how long it takes to make them back)Don't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
Would a capital gains tax crush the housing market? Or would it barely make a dent? In this episode, Ed and Andrew explore the evidence from other countries like Australia, Canada, the UK, and the US to see what really happens when a CGT is introduced.You'll learn:Whether a CGT would cause NZ house prices to drop in the first five yearsHow overseas housing markets have performed with a CGTWhy a CGT might be more of a revenue-raiser than a housing market killerIf you've ever worried a CGT could derail your property investing plans, this episode gives you the facts, not just the politics. Don't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
What happens if your home is destroyed in a flood, but the land underneath it is no longer safe to live on? Until now, governments and councils have stepped in with billion-dollar buyouts – but Prime Minister Christopher Luxon says that era might be over.In this episode, we unpack what this shift could mean for homeowners and property investors, and whether the risks of buying in certain areas are about to get much bigger.You'll learn:How past disasters like the Canterbury earthquakes and Cyclone Gabrielle triggered massive government buyoutsWhy Luxon is signalling “no more bailouts” for land lossesWhat this could mean for property values, mortgages, and your investment strategyUnderstanding climate-related risks is becoming essential for property investors. If government support dries up, the financial fallout could be huge.Don't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
For years, investors got used to borrowing at low rates. But with interest costs climbing, many are now asking: is this the end of cheap money?In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down the “grey wave” theory — the idea that retiring baby boomers will reshape global savings and push interest rates higher. But does the data really support that? And what does it mean for property prices here in New Zealand?Listen in as we cover:Why some economists argue baby boomers will drive interest rates upThe evidence from Japan, and why it might point in the opposite directionWhat the Reserve Bank of NZ says about where interest rates are headed nextIf you want to understand what's really driving borrowing costs (and how it affects the housing market), this one's for you.Don't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
Property investing just got easier. In this episode, we reveal the five game-changing tools inside Opes+ that can help you grow and manage your portfolio faster. From analysing Trade Me properties instantly to building your own Wealth Plan for free.We'll also share the major new features we've added, including mortgage tracking, property management insights. Here's what you'll learn:The 5 most powerful property investment tools inside Opes+How to analyse any Trade Me property in secondsHow to build and manage your own Wealth Plan without an adviserWant to take your portfolio to the next level? Discover how these tools can help you grow faster in today's market.Don't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
Everyone has a theory about what makes house prices rise or fall. But in reality, there are only five numbers that really move the market. In this episode, we count them down from least to most important and show you how to track them yourself.You'll learn:The #1 factor driving New Zealand house prices (hint: it's not the OCR).The hidden metric that reveals whether it's a buyer's or seller's market.How supply, demand, and bank lending really influence property values.If you want to stay ahead of the market, forget the noise and follow these five dials instead.Don't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
What happens when you buy at the “top of the market” … and things don't go to plan? In this episode, we share Sam's journey of building a 3-property portfolio by the age of 37.Sam has seen the ups and downs of investing – from doubling his first property's value in just 3 years, to facing engineering issues with a new build, and dealing with negative equity. Despite the setbacks, he's staying the course and has no regrets.You'll hear:How Sam built a 3-property portfolio in Whanganui, Christchurch, and AucklandWhy buying at the “peak” wasn't a mistake (even if the numbers don't look great right now)The real red flags he missed – and the lessons for every investorThis case study is a reminder that while property investing isn't always smooth sailing, it's about playing the long game.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 think financial advisers are only for the wealthy. But the truth is, you often don't need as much money as you think to get started. In this episode, we break down the 5 different types of advisers, how they get paid, and who they're best for – from mortgage advisers to budgeting coaches.You'll learn:The ballpark income and deposit levels advisers usually work withWhy some advisers cost you nothing upfront (and how they actually get paid)The type of adviser you only need around $15 a week to work withIf you've ever thought “I'm not rich enough for a financial adviser,” this episode will show you the reality – and help you feel confident about finding the right adviser for your situation. We also mentioned our Opes Borrowing calculator, try it out.Don't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
What can one of the greatest tennis players of all time teach us about investing? More than you might think. In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down the “Roger Federer Effect” – why winning just over half the time can still make you a champion, both on the court and in the property market.You'll discover:Why Federer only won 54% of points, yet ended up winning 83% of matches.How the same principle applies to investing – and why it pays to zoom out.What the stats really show about house price growth in New Zealand over the short vs. long term.It's not about every single “point” in property or shares – it's the big picture that counts.Don't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
The Reserve Bank has just cut the OCR again, and interest rates are falling. But how low could they really go — and what does that mean for house prices and the economy?In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down:Why the OCR dropped from 3.25% to 3% — and why another cut looks almost certainHow low mortgage rates could go (hint: ANZ's forecasts suggest 4.5% is on the cards)What the Reserve Bank is signalling about house prices in 2026 — and why they might not be rightIf you want to understand where interest rates — and property values — are really headed, this episode is for you.Don't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
Many Kiwi investors reach a point where they're asset-rich but cash-poor.They're sitting on millions in property wealth but not sure how to turn that into weekly income. In this episode, we dive into exactly how to unlock your properties so you can actually live off your investments.You'll learn:How to quit your job and use your properties to fund your lifestyleThe 3-phase sell-down strategy to steadily release equityWhy working with a financial adviser is crucial to avoid running out of moneyThis episode flips the usual property investment strategy on its head – instead of focusing on accumulation, we show you how to decumulate wealth and turn bricks and mortar into real cashflow for lifeDon'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 break down the exact process I use to set goals – the same method that's helped me stick to my targets and stay focused over the long term.You'll learn:How to make it 42% more likely you hit your money goals (with one simple change)The process I use to run my family like a businessHow to create 10-year, 3-year, and 90-day goals that actually get doneThis is the same framework we use with our own clients at Opes Partners – because you can't build a property plan until you know where you're going.As mentioned in the episode, you can download your Vision Traction Organiser here.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 crunch the numbers to answer a deceptively simple question — how many properties do you need to retire by 55? The answer might surprise you. It's not always five properties … sometimes two is enough.You'll hear real examples of different investor profiles and how their income, age, and investment strategy impacts how much wealth they need to build — and how they get there.We also reveal the #1 mistake many investors make when planning for retirement (and how to avoid it).You'll learn:How younger investors can retire with fewer propertiesWhy compounding is your secret weapon (and why later investors need more)How higher income can reduce how many properties you need to buyDon't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
Will and Dawn's first home journey didn't go quite as planned — but it ended up saving them $25,000.In this episode, they reveal how they secured their Dunedin home for the First Home Grant limit of $500,000, even after initially walking away from the deal.We also dive into how redundancy shook their early homeownership journey, and the lessons they learned about emergency funds, income growth, and future investment planning.You'll learn:How walking away from a property deal can strengthen your negotiating positionThe reality of facing redundancy just months after buying a homeTheir strategy to move from first-home owners to hands-off property investorsDon't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
Retirement villages can look like a comfortable option for your parents (or even yourself one day) — but the financial reality can be very different from what you expect.In this episode, we unpack the costs, rules, and traps so you can make an informed decision.You'll learn:The “Licence to Occupy” model used by 95% of villages, and why you don't get any capital gainsHow Deferred Management Fees (DMFs) can take 20–30% of your money — and why payouts can be delayed up to two yearsThe ongoing weekly fees, plus what you still have to pay for yourselfIf you want to understand how these villages really work — and avoid six-figure surprises — this episode is for you.Don't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
Vacancies are one of the biggest fears for property investors right now. They cost you money and cause unnecessary stress. In this episode, we reveal 10 proven tactics to rent your property faster — even in a competitive market.You'll learn:The #1 change that instantly makes your property more appealing to tenantsHow smart marketing can bump your listing to the top and get more eyeballs on itThe one decision that opens you up to over 60% more tenantsDon'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 break down how some Kiwi property investors can legally vote more than once in local council elections — and why it's not as sneaky as it sounds. You'll hear how the Ratepayer Roll works, what forms you need to fill out, and the surprising stats about how few people actually do it. Plus, we tackle the big question: is it ethical?How the Ratepayer Roll lets you vote in more than one local electorateThe simple process to register without breaking the lawThe ethical debate that could shape future election rulesDon't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
In this brutally honest episode, Ed and Andrew tackle a difficult but essential question: Have we misled people into investing in property?After receiving an email from a listener who says some followers are now in financial hardship, the team doesn't brush it off. Instead, they confront the feedback head-on – acknowledging the risks of leverage, and the need for deeper financial education.You'll hear:Why one listener says Opes content might be “misleading” – and whether they're rightEd and Andrew's honest thoughts about taking responsibility as financial influencersWhy past performance ≠ future returns (and why that matters for every investor)Don't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
You don't have to sacrifice the finer things in life just because you're saving for your next investment. In this episode, Ed, Andrew, and Sabby talk about how to live a boujee lifestyle without blowing your budget.You'll learn:The biggest mistake most people make when trying to save – and what to do insteadSabby's favourite “boujee on a budget” hacks, including her take on affordable luxuryHow to still enjoy life (while secretly saving more towards property)Follow Sabby Jey on InstagramDon't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
Thinking about becoming a property investor? Before you take the plunge, you need to hear this.This episode is your brutally honest reality check. Most people think property investing is a quick win. Buy a house, wait a bit, boom — instant equity. But that's not how it works.In this episode, you'll learn:6 hard truths about property investment that most people don't talk aboutWhy 1 in 3 new investors lose money in their first yearHow to decide if property is the right investment for youWe'll be upfront: property is slow, sometimes frustrating, and definitely not a guaranteed win. But for those who can stick with it, the rewards can be big. If you're not cut out for it, that's OK too. Better to find out now than lose tens of thousands later. Don't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
Chris built a 4-property portfolio without using any of his own cash. He started investing while living in the UK – and now owns four houses across Wellington and Rolleston.In this episode, we unpack how he did it and the tactics he used to get great deals – even in a tough market.You'll learn:How Chris used cheeky lowball offers to nab a great dealWhy he doesn't want to retire early (and what he's aiming for instead)How equity (not cash) helped him build a solid investment baseDon't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
Is New Zealand quietly heading toward another leaky home crisis?Right now, over one-third of new homes are failing their final council inspection – and most Kiwis don't know it. In this episode, we reveal what's really going on with the quality of new builds, and whether you should be worried as a property investor.You'll learn:The 4 most common reasons new builds fail their final inspectionWhether this is the start of another systemic building failure like the 2000sWhat this means for your wallet – and how to protect yourselfDon't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
Council rates are surging across the country – but what's really driving the increase? In this episode, we break down the hidden forces that are making rates more expensive for property investors and homeowners alike.You'll learn:Why 2025 is the worst year for rate hikes since 1991The 3-year council that increased rates by a staggering 66%What councils are spending your money on – and whether it's worth itDon't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
Some experts claim that investing in shares grows the economy, while investing in property doesn't. But is that really true?In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down an article from RNZ that encouraged Kiwis to “break up with property,” and challenge the idea that property investment is bad for New Zealand's future.You'll hear:Why comparing $100 in shares vs $100 in property misses the full picture.The hidden productivity behind property investment – from builders to Bunnings sausages.Why both shares and property can contribute to economic growth – and how.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 special bonus episode, you'll hear the audio from the recent Property Live webinar where we looked at how to "Use 1 house to buy 5 more"In this podcast you'll learn:the fundamentals see an example of how someone used 1 house to buy 5 moreHow to use Opes+ to create a plan and see if you can do it tooFor more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
If you've got a budget in mind but don't know where to invest, this episode is your roadmap.We break down the best locations to buy property in New Zealand at every price point – from $100K to $1M+. Using real sales data and listings, we reveal what's actually available at each level and where to look for opportunities.You'll learn:Which areas have real properties available under $200K (yes, they exist)What $400K–$600K gets you in the main centres (and where to avoid)Why some million-dollar properties might be better value than cheaper homesDon't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
It's getting easier to find cashflow positive properties in New Zealand – but only in certain places.In this episode, we reveal brand new data showing where investors are most likely to find properties that don't require a top-up. But we also unpack the truth behind the numbers.You'll learn:The 5 cities with the highest proportion of cashflow positive propertiesWhy Queenstown is still 100% cashflow negativeWhat “cashflow positive” really means (and why the definition matters)Don't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
Airbnb can look like a cash cow … but beneath the glossy headlines, there are risks many investors don't realise.In this episode, we break down the true costs of running a short-term rental and the mistakes that catch Kiwis off guard. Because while Airbnb can boost income, it's not always the money-maker it seems.You'll learn:3 hidden risks every Airbnb investor must knowWhy one Wellington investor lost money despite solid occupancyHow local councils are cracking down – and what it could cost youDon'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 26-year-old Josh – a young investor who's seen both sides of the property game.From buying his first home at just 20 (with his twin brother) to taking a huge financial hit on an Auckland property … Josh is now locking in deals with seriously high cashflow.You'll hear how he turned things around to secure a 20% gross yield on his latest investment – and how joining a property group helped sharpen his strategy.You'll learn:How Josh bought his first house while working full-time and building on weekendsThe costly mistake that led to selling an Auckland house at a lossWhat he's doing now to find high-yield deals (and the 2 properties he's got under contract)Don't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
What if the key to building 3x more wealth wasn't about earning more … but getting help? In this episode, we reveal the surprising reason people build significantly more wealth just by working with a financial adviser – and it's probably not what you think.You'll learn:The key differences between Kiwis who build wealth and those who don'tWhy knowledge isn't enough (and how accountability changes everything)What a gym personal trainer can teach you about growing your wealthWant to build long-term wealth with property? Start with our step-by-step property investment guide.Don't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
This is one of the most common questions we get from older Kiwis: “Is it too late for me to invest?” In this episode, we break down what it takes to get a mortgage in your 60s – and how one listener used the no-cash-needed method to try and make it work.You'll learn:Whether age really is a barrier to investing in propertyHow lenders assess mortgage applications when you're over 60How to boost your chances of getting a “yes” from the bank (even with a modest income)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 reveal the banks now offering 10-year interest-only mortgages – and why this could be a game-changer for property investors.While most banks cap interest-only terms at 5 years, some are now doubling that time frame. But that doesn't mean it's easier to get. In fact, the lending criteria are often stricter. We dig into the differences between ANZ and TSB's approaches, including how much extra income you need to qualify – and how the banks test you differently.You'll learn:Which banks offer 10-year interest-only terms (and how they work)Why interest-only loans are slightly harder to get (despite lower repayments)Who this strategy is right for … and when it could hurt youWant to get an interest-only mortgage? Run the numbers with this interest only mortgage calculator.Don't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
Divorce isn't just emotionally devastating – it can kill your finances. In this episode, we reveal five real-life divorce horror stories and the costly mistakes investors made when their relationships broke down.Whether it's family trusts backfiring, prenups falling over, or messy asset disputes, you'll hear exactly what went wrong – and what you need to do to protect yourself.You'll learn:5 true stories of Kiwi couples whose breakups destroyed their wealthWhy even a valid prenup isn't always enough3 lessons to help safeguard your assets before things go badPlus, we discuss why so few New Zealanders have relationship property agreements – even when they're most at risk.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 think a trust will protect their assets in a break-up.But that's not always true. In fact, without a relationship property agreement (a prenup), even your trust could be challenged in court.In this episode, we break down the real risks of not having a prenup – including how one Kiwi lost his house, despite putting it in a trust – and explain how to put a contracting out agreement in place.You'll learn:How NZ's relationship property law really works – and when the 50/50 split kicks inWhy a trust doesn't always protect your property after a breakupHow much prenups cost, and the life events that should trigger a reviewDon't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
Getting a mortgage isn't just about picking the bank with the best rate. There are key decisions and financial tests you need to understand before the bank will lend you money.In this episode, we break down everything you need to know to master your mortgage – from figuring out how much you can borrow, to setting up your loan the right way.You'll learn:The 3 bank tests you must pass before you can get a mortgageHow to calculate your repayments using the “mortgage factor”Why the structure of your mortgage (term, type, and payment timing) matters more than you thinkDon't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
Most 18-year-olds are worried about uni, flatting or getting their licence … not about mortgage rates and tenant cashflow.But Kaylee is different. At just 18, she bought her first rental property. And she didn't need a $150k deposit to do it.In this episode, we unpack Kaylee's story – and what her journey can teach parents and young Kiwis about getting into the property market early.You'll learn:How Kaylee built a $350k portfolio before turning 20Why her parents made her save 50% of everything she earned as a kidThe property investment structure they used to make it all work Don't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
Weddings are beautiful … but they can also cost a fortune. So in this episode, Ed shares the exact tactics he and his fiancée are using to keep costs down – while still making the big day feel special.You'll learn:How much Kiwis actually spend on weddings (hint: it's not $30k anymore)7 practical, real-world ways to cut wedding costs without cutting joyWhy a smaller wedding might mean a wealthier futureDon't forget to create your free Opes+ account here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
Some people swear by vision boards. Others think they're woo-woo nonsense. So in this episode, we put them to the test.You'll hear what's on Ed and Andrew's personal vision boards and why these visual goals might (or might not) work for you.This episode is for anyone who's ever struggled to stay motivated while working toward financial freedom.The surprising item Andrew put on his vision board – and whyWhy writing down your goals could make them more realA simple 15-minute strategy to stay focused on your goalsDon'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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