The Property Academy Podcast is a daily show that gives you insight, analysis and strategies for how to get the most out of the NZ property market. That's whether you're an existing or aspiring property investor, you want to get into your first home, or you're just interested in the property market. Andrew Nicol and Ed McKnight host the podcast. Andrew is the Managing Partner of Opes Partners and a prolific investor himself. Ed is an economist. Both Stuff and Juno Investment Magazine have previously published his analyses. https://www.opespartners.co.nz/investment/property-investment
Most investors assume retirement means selling properties to free up cash. But what if you didn't have to?In this episode, Ed and Andrew explore a lesser-known strategy, walk through when it might make sense, and discuss the risks that could catch people out. You'll learn:How some retirees could potentially access equity without selling their rentals Why timing matters... especially before you stop working The pros, cons and alternativesThere may be ways to unlock equity without selling… but only if the numbers, timing, and risk tolerance all line up properly.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
Most Kiwis automatically choose a principal-and-interest mortgage. But for investment properties… that's not always the strategy investors use.In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down the real difference between interest-only vs principal-and-interest lending.You'll learn:Why many investors prioritise cashflow over paying down rental debt fasterThe hidden risk when an interest-only term ends The strategies investors use to extend interest-only lending over time Main idea? Interest-only lending isn't about avoiding debt forever, it's about where you choose to direct your money. Used well, it can improve flexibility and cashflow. Used poorly, it can create serious pressure later on.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
Thinking about turning your property into an Airbnb? You might need more than just a listing and a lockbox.In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down when you actually need council consent to run an Airbnb, and unpack the risks most investors don't think about until it's too late. You'll learn:When Airbnb activity crosses the line from “casual” to requiring consent Why neighbours and body corporates can become the biggest roadblocks How to improve your chances of getting approval before you even apply Airbnb investing isn't just about the numbers – it's also about compliance, neighbours, and local council rules. A seemingly great investment can quickly turn into a headache if you don't understand the process.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
An old church. A near-$1 million budget. And a possible Airbnb conversion in Timaru.So… would Andrew actually invest in it?In this episode, Ed and Andrew walk through a real deal that Andrew looked at. They break down the renovation costs, Airbnb assumptions, and the harsh reality. You'll learn:How to analyse an unusual renovation project step-by-step Why heritage-style properties can become financial traps The biggest risk with complex renovationsMain idea? A property can look incredible and still be a bad investment. The best investors don't just fall in love with the story, they stay disciplined enough to walk away when the maths don't work.Book a meeting to start your path to financial freedom with a detailed financial plan for $0.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
You don't have an income problem… You might have a spending problem.In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down 7 things Kiwis keep buying that quietly destroy their ability to build wealth. You'll learn:The biggest “wealth killers” How small, everyday spending can quietly eat up 15% of your incomeThe 1 rule that keeps you sane … while you save moreWhat this really comes down to: building wealth isn't just about earning more, it's about what you keep. Start your path to financial freedom with a detailed financial plan for $0For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
Mitch grew up watching his family lose everything in the GFC. Now, he owns 15 rental units.In this Case Study Sunday, Mitch shares why he focuses on cashflow over flashy properties, and how he's using social media to show everyday Kiwis what's possible through property investing. You'll learn:How this investor bought 15 rental units with average incomes in just three yearsHow this multi-unit deal in Rotorua changed everythingHow he's now getting a 13.5% gross yieldMain lesson? Great deals rarely fall into your lap. The investors who succeed long-term are usually the ones willing to learn deeply, move fast, and stay disciplined enough to wait for opportunities that genuinely stack up.And to see more from Mitch here are the links to his Instagram and TikTok.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
What does it actually take to pay off your mortgage in 10 years… not 30?In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down 5 proven mortgage strategies used by real Kiwis – including a tradie who smashed his mortgage on a modest income, and families who became mortgage-free decades early. You'll learn:The exact strategies that actually move the needle Why even $50–$200 extra per week can save you years – and over $200k in interestHow these 3 Kiwi families paid off their mortgages in 6, 10, and 12 yearsMain idea? Paying off your mortgage faster isn't about one big move, it's about consistently doing the small things that chip away at the principal. Done right, those small changes can cut years (or decades) off your loan.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
Thinking about turning your property into an Airbnb… but no idea what it actually costs?In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down the real cost of setting up a short-term rental – from big-ticket items like beds and appliances to the small details most people forget. The numbers might surprise you. You'll learn:How much does it cost to fully furnish an Airbnb The must-have items in every room (and where you can save vs where to spend) The hidden costs – including a 15%+ fee that eats into your revenue Main idea? Airbnb can boost your income… but only if the numbers stack up. For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
Most Kiwis think investing is simple… until tax comes into play.In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down how different investments are actually taxed – from term deposits and shares to funds, crypto, and property. And once you see the differences, it's easy to see how investors can overpay (or underpay) without realising it. You'll learn: How tax works across term deposits, shares, funds, and property The “wealth tax” on overseas shares – and why you might pay tax even if your investment goes down How to get a lower tax rate on these investmentsWhat this really comes down to: investing isn't just about returns, it's about what you keep after tax. And if you don't understand the rules, you could end up paying more than you need to… or facing a surprise bill later.And you can check out Kendons: Chartered accountants and business advisors website by clicking the link.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
In this special bonus episode, you'll hear the audio from the recent Property Live webinar where we looked at "How to earn $100k passive income in 15 years (through property)"In this podcast you'll learn:How to build your planWhat sort of properties suit your planAnd how to retire rich at 55Don't forget to create your free Opes+ account and Wealth Plan here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
Are you paying more tax than you need to… without even realising it?In this episode, Ed and Andrew play “Pilfered or Protected” – walking through real scenarios to show how different ownership structures can either protect your profits… or quietly drain them. You'll learn: The 4 main ways to own property – and when each one makes sense How the wrong structure can cost you thousands in unnecessary tax Why sometimes the smartest move is actually to pay more tax Main idea? Tax isn't just about how much you earn, it's about how you structure it. Get it right, and you keep more of what you make. Get it wrong, and you could be handing over more than you need to.And check out Opes Accounting to get a free tax consult.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
What actually makes a “good” floor plan for an investment property… and what quietly puts tenants off?In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down what to look for (and what to avoid) when it comes to floor plans.You'll learn: The key features of a strong floor plan The common mistakes investors make (and why they matter more than you think) When it's still worth buying a property… even if the layout isn't perfect There's no such thing as a perfect floor plan... just better trade-offs. The goal isn't perfection… it's buying something that works well enough for the price, and knowing what you can (and can't) fix later.Book a meeting to start your path to financial freedom with a detailed financial plan for $0.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
What's the fastest way to make $1 million from property?In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down the 5 most common property investing strategies. You'll learn: How long does it take to make $1M through the top 5 strategies How many deals would you need to do Which strategies are investments… and which ones are really just high-paying jobs Main idea? There's no single “best” strategy, but they're not equal either. Some take decades. Others take years but come with serious risk and effort.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
They lived in a 26sqm tiny house for 8 years… then sold it for double what it cost to build.In this Case Study Sunday, Hilde and Michel return to share what's happened since – from selling their tiny home to building a 3-property portfolio, all while keeping their long-term goal of flexibility and sabbaticals front of mind. You'll learn:How living in a tiny house helped them accelerate their investing journeyWhat it's really like living in 26sqm – and whether it was worth it How they built 3 houses in just 3 years.Main idea? It's not about doing exactly what they did, it's about designing a life that supports your financial goals. For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
Why do so many people start investing… and then quit?In this episode, Ed and Andrew use a simple analogy – the gym – to explain why building wealth is less about knowledge… and more about behaviour. You'll learn:Why people who go to the gym are the best investors 5 similarities between going to the gym and investing The one thing you should do NOW if you've been putting it off for yearsMain idea? Getting ahead financially isn't about knowing more, it's about sticking with the basics long enough to see results. The people who succeed aren't perfect… they just don't quit.And check out our list of the Top 10 Financial Advisers in NZFor more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
A developer says this property gets a 15.4% gross yield… but does it actually stack up?In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down a real-world Airbnb deal in Queenstown to show how headline numbers can look incredible... until you dig into the assumptions behind them. You'll learn: How a 15.4% yield is calculated Whether the numbers check out… or are just a flat-out fabrication Why looking at net yield (not gross) gives a much clearer picture What this really comes down to: the numbers aren't always wrong… but they're often presented in a way that makes them look better than they are. If you don't run the full calculation yourself, it's easy to be misled.Book a meeting to start your path to financial freedom with a detailed financial plan for $0.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
If you own a cross-lease property… this could change everything.In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down a major Court of Appeal decision that's been called the biggest shake-up to cross-lease rules in decades. You'll learn: What the court changed and why the old rules were deemed “wrong in law” How does this impact your ability to renovate, extend, or rebuild Whether cross-lease properties could now become more valuableMain idea? It may now be easier to get consent from neighbours, but nothing is guaranteed yet. The ruling could still be appealed, and the practical hurdles (plans, surveys, council approvals) remain very real.Book a meeting to start your path to financial freedom with a detailed financial plan for $0.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
You've got a lump sum of money… and deep down, you know you're going to spend it. So how do you stop yourself?In this episode, Ed and Andrew walk through 4 practical ways to “lock up” your money. You'll learn:How to FORCE yourself not to spend moneyThe 4 levels of lockup – from easy to extremeWhy adding friction can stop impulse spending in its tracks The key takeaway? If you know your weak spots, you can design systems that protect your future… even when willpower runs out.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
“I'm waiting for prices to drop.” “I'll buy when interest rates come down.” “I just need to do more research…”Sound familiar? In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down 12 real excuses Kiwis use to avoid investing. Some are valid. Most aren't. You'll learn:The most common excuses stopping people from investing Real reasons we've heard over the last 7 years How to tell the difference between a valid reason and a comfortable excuseThere will always be a reason not to start. The important thing is knowing whether you're making a deliberate decision… or just delaying one.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
Australia's property market is booming… with some cities up 24% in a single year. So does that mean New Zealand is next?In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down what's happening across the Tasman, and whether Kiwi house prices are likely to follow. You'll learn: Which Australian cities are booming, and how fast prices are rising Why Australia's market is recovering faster than New Zealand's Whether NZ house prices actually follow Australia The key takeaway? There is a relationship between the two markets… but it's not a guarantee. For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
They started with $10k in KiwiSaver and a $50k income… and built a 3-property portfolio in 10 years.In this Case Study Sunday, Mike shares how he and his partner went from living with family and saving aggressively, to growing their income 4x and building a solid property portfolio.You'll learn:How they went from a modest income to a $200k household income and three propertiesWhat they had to give up The mortgage strategies that helped them keep buying The key takeaway? Big results don't come from one big move ... they come from consistency over time. For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
Got a big section and thinking about subdividing? In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down the real cost of subdivisions in New Zealand... and why so many people get it wrong.You'll learn: How much does a subdivision really cost The full process from idea to new title (and how long it actually takes) The story of a 29-year-old who ran into major issues The key takeaway? Subdividing can work... but it's not easy money. For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
Should you invest in property with your parents… or is that a mistake waiting to happen?In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down the real pros and cons of co-investing with family.You'll learn:How buying a rental with your parents can STOP you from buying your first homeA real example of a $900k Auckland property to show how these deals actually work in practice4 alternative ways to structure support if co-investing isn't right for you Investing with family can work, but only if you go in with your eyes open. The biggest risks aren't the numbers… they're the long-term consequences if things change. For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
Can you actually live on NZ Super… or is it not enough?In this episode, Ed and Andrew dig into what life really looks like on the pension. Some retirees say they're getting by… others are struggling to make ends meet. So who's right? You'll learn: What NZ Super actually pays in 2026... and what that looks like week to week The real stories of retirees who say it's not enough And those who say it's actually manageableThe key takeaway? NZ Super isn't one-size-fits-all. For some, it works. For others, it's a struggle – which is why planning matters.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
Are Kiwis really leaving Auckland for Christchurch… or is that just a myth?In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down the latest internal migration data to show exactly where people are moving within New Zealand, and what it means for property investors. The shifts might surprise you. You'll learn: The parts of the country Kiwis are leaving – and where they're going instead The satellite town that grew 9x in just 20 years The regions that flipped from boom to bust Population drives property. Where people go, demand follows... but the “hot” locations don't stay hot forever. Smart investors watch the trends early… before everyone else catches on.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
New meth rules are coming into force… and they could save (or cost) landlords thousands.In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down the new meth contamination standards – what's changed, why the old system caused so much confusion, and what you actually need to do if your property is affected. You'll learn: The new legal thresholds – and the one number landlords now need to know Why did some investors pay for decontamination they didn't actually need How to clean up meth contamination yourself – and what it really costs The key takeaway? The rules are finally clearer, but that doesn't mean the risk is gone. Knowing the thresholds, testing properly, and understanding your options could be the difference between a small clean-up… and a $30,000+ bill.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
Could AI replace a $25,000 property investment expert… or make a six-figure mistake on your behalf?In this episode, Ed and Andrew run a live experiment using AI to see if you can skip paying for advice. You'll learn: Whether AI can actually recommend the right type of investment property How well it analyses deals Where AI gets it right… and where it falls short compared to a human adviser The key takeaway? AI is powerful – but it's not a silver bullet. For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
He walked away from his first property with nothing… then made $286,000 on the next one.In this Case Study Sunday, Daniel shares how he went from an easy first deal that ended badly to building real momentum. You'll learn: Why did he walk away from his first property with nothing How he made $286k from a single deal The simple move that helped him sell a property in just 2 daysThe key takeaway? One bad deal doesn't define your investing journey. Daniel's story shows how quickly things can turn around when you learn from experience, back yourself, and keep moving forward.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
Can the average Kiwi really become a millionaire… or is that just a nice idea on paper?In this episode, Ed and Andrew dig into the data to answer that exact question – looking at what the average New Zealander earns over a lifetime, how wealth is actually built, and why more people are millionaires than you might expect. You'll learn: Whether it's realistically possible for the average person to become a millionaire How many Kiwis are already millionaires The exact weekly amount you'd need to invest to hit $1 millionBecoming a millionaire in New Zealand is mathematically possible… but it's not easy. And the biggest drivers? They might surprise you.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
He's 63, divorced, renting… with $265K to his name. Is it too late to turn things around?In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down a real listener's situation – walking through the numbers to figure out whether he can still buy a home, or if renting is actually the better option. You'll learn: Whether buying a home at 63 is still realistic What retirement could look like if he rents vs buys The practical options if you feel like you've “left it too late” The key takeaway? It's not always about owning your home, it's about making your money last. For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
A property manager stole $869,000… and until now, there's been very little stopping it.In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down the new rules being proposed for property managers – and why the government is stepping in to bring more oversight to an industry that handles billions in rent each year.You'll learn: The new laws coming for property managers The real cases that exposed major gaps in how rent and bond money are handled The key changes designed to protect landlords This isn't about punishing good property managers, it's about lifting the standard across the whole industry. Soon, it'll likely be much easier to tell who's running a professional operation… and who isn't.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
Are townhouses actually crashing house prices in New Zealand… or is that just the story people want to believe?In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down the “oversupply” narrative – using real data to show what's really happening in the property market.You'll learn: Whether townhouses are really driving house prices down If New Zealand has actually built too many homes – or if that's a myth Why some properties are sitting unsold (and what they all have in common) The key takeaway? It's not a “too many houses” problem, it's a pricing and product problem. The right properties in the right locations are still selling. The market isn't broken… It's just adjusting.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
Everything's going well… you've got a few properties… then suddenly the bank says: “You've been moved to commercial.”In this episode, Ed and Andrew explain what actually happens when investors cross that line, and why it's not always as bad as it sounds. You'll learn: The 4 triggers that can push you into the commercial side of the bank What really changes (and what doesn't) The hidden upside... and why some investors actually prefer being assessed commercially Getting moved to the commercial team doesn't automatically mean higher rates, but it does mean your lending is being looked at differently. By understanding thresholds and using the right strategy, you can still maintain control and reduce costs.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
One bad property decision… could cost you $750,000.In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down the 7 biggest warning signs that you're about to buy the wrong property – including a real story of a buyer who overpaid at the peak and got stuck when the market turned. You'll learn: The 7 red flags that signal a bad investment before you buy Why chasing a “bargain” or a booming market can backfire The costly mistakes ... like skipping due diligence or misunderstanding what you're buying The key takeaway? Most bad property deals don't look bad at first. They feel excited, logical, even “safe.” But if you ignore the fundamentals, one wrong purchase can set you back years.And here is the 23 Step Checklist to use before you commit to any property – whether you're an investor buying a new build, purchasing an existing rental, or even buying your first home. If a property can't pass these checks, walk away.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
They started with a first home in Auckland… and turned it into something much bigger.In this Case Study Sunday, Jess and Rob share how they built a three-property portfolio – including buying a discounted plaster home and constructing a second dwelling in their own backyard. You'll learn: Three properties, a backyard build, and a plaster home bought at a discount What they'd do differently if they could start it all again How they launched a new business to boost their cashflow The key takeaway? Building a portfolio isn't always a straight line. With the right mindset, practical skills, and a willingness to adapt, you can keep progressing... even when lending gets tight.And if you want to support Jess and Rob's new business, check out Auckland Pre-Purchase Inspections if you need a building inspection.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
Does farmland actually outperform houses… or is that just something farmers tell themselves?In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down how fast New Zealand farmland really goes up in value, and whether it stacks up against residential property over the long term. You'll learn: How has farmland performed over time Why the last decade has been a “lost decade” for farm prices How some farmers are using their cows as leverage to invest in propertyFarmland can grow wealth, but it's not as consistent as many people think. Whether your wealth is tied up in land or property, diversification and realistic expectations matter more than chasing past performance.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
Not all banks treat property investors the same… and choosing the wrong one could stop your next deal.In this episode, Ed and Andrew sit down with one of New Zealand's top mortgage advisers to rank the major banks in 2026 – based on how easy they are to get lending from, and which ones actually work best for investors. You'll learn: Which banks are “rolling out the red carpet” – and which are harder to get deals across the line with How bank policies differ (and why some are better suited to investors) The biggest mistake investors make when choosing a bank The key takeaway? There's no “best bank” – only the best bank for your situation. For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
This might be the riskiest investment Ed has ever made… and it's not property.In this episode, Ed shares why he invested in a musical – how the deal works, what could go wrong, and the very real chance he could lose it all. You'll learn: How investing in a musical actually works — and why it's completely different to property The real risk (it all comes down to ticket sales) and why the odds are brutal What this experience teaches about diversification, emotion, and risk toleranceNot all investments are created equal. Sometimes investing isn't just about returns – it's about understanding the risks you're taking… and whether you can live with them.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 "5 houses in 5 years: How many can I actually buy?"In this podcast you'll learn:How many properties can you buy?How the bank decides whether to give you moneyAnd the free tool that tells you what to do nextDon'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 property market looks flat… but that's hiding what's really going on.In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down the latest data to show where house prices are actually rising, where they haven't recovered yet, and which areas have fully recovered from the downturn. You'll learn: The regions where prices are up... including areas that have grown 20% since the bottom Why some investors are already back in profit… while others are still underwater The major city that has just fully recovered to its previous peakThe key takeaway? The national average tells you almost nothing. If you want to understand what's really happening, you need to look beneath the surface.Click the link to try out The Market Mover tool.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
Bitcoin, gold, shares, property… what would you actually invest in right now?In this episode, Ed and Andrew react to Andrew's viral “skip or invest” takes – breaking down 9 different investments and explaining the reasoning behind each call. You'll learn: Which investments would Andrew skip Where he'd still put money today The big differences between assets like gold (store of wealth) vs true investmentsThere's no one-size-fits-all answer. What Andrew would invest in depends on his goals, experience, and risk tolerance – and yours might be completely different. 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 actually analyse a property deal… in just 15 minutes?In this episode, Ed and Andrew walk through the exact 23-step checklist our team uses to assess every property, and why even deals that look great on paper can still fail. You'll learn: The 23-step framework used to assess any investment property Why you should start with the numbers, not the property A real example of a deal that looked solid… but still failed A good investment isn't just about yield or growth – it has to stack up across the board. Miss one key detail... then a “good deal” can quickly turn into a bad one.In this episode we mention the Area Analyser tool and the 23 Step Checklist to use before you commit to any property – whether you're an investor buying a new build, purchasing an existing rental, or even buying your first home. If a property can't pass these checks, walk away.
He turned $550k into $830k in 9 months… then bought a $1.4M lifestyle block before turning 30.In this Case Study Sunday, Jacob shares how he and his partner built significant equity early – and the big decision he's facing now: flip houses or build a long-term rental portfolio? You'll learn: How they bought a $1.4M property while still in their 20s The real trade-offs between flipping vs buying rentals A simple way to decide which strategy actually fits your situation The “best” strategy isn't the one that sounds exciting – it's the one you can realistically execute. Whether it's flipping or building a portfolio, your time, risk tolerance, and stage of life matter just as much as the numbers.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 rental market looked flat last year… but under the surface, things are starting to shift.In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down the latest rental data to show where rents are rising, where they're falling, and where tenant demand is quietly building across New Zealand. You'll learn: The regions where rents are increasing Why the rents in this region dropped 6%, even as demand rises What happens when searches go up, and listings go down The key takeaway? The rental market isn't moving in one direction. It's not a full recovery yet… but it's definitely one to watch.Don't forget to try our Tenant Tool and see what the data says about what tenants are actually looking for.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
Thousands of dollars… paid for “lifetime” coaching. Then the company shuts down overnight.In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down what happened when a property investment company abruptly closed – and what it means for investors who thought they were signing up for support that would last decades. You'll learn: What to do if you paid for “lifetime” coaching... and it suddenly disappears Why “lifetime” promises often mean the lifetime of the company, not you Your real options – from Disputes Tribunal claims to Commerce Commission complaintsThe key takeaway? If a promise sounds too good to be true, it probably is.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 is forecasting inflation could hit 4.2%… so why didn't they raise the Official Cash Rate?In this episode, Ed and Andrew unpack the latest OCR announcement and why the headline number doesn't tell the full story. From global geopolitics to behind-the-scenes bank pricing, there's more going on than meets the eye. You'll learn: What Trump's ceasefire could mean for oil prices – and why that impacts inflation forecasts Why the Reserve Bank held rates, even with inflation expected to rise The “secret” bank discounts that mean you might not be paying what's advertised The key takeaway? Not all inflation is created equal – and not all of it is permanent. And while headline mortgage rates are creeping up, what borrowers actually pay often tells a different story.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
Yesterday, we talked about what happens when you miss a mortgage repayment. Today, let's talk about how to avoid getting into that situation in the first place – by choosing the right mortgage broker.In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down the top mortgage brokers in New Zealand, what makes each one different, and why using the right adviser can dramatically improve your chances of getting (and keeping) a good loan. You'll learn: The 10 mortgage brokers across NZ What a mortgage broker actually does How much does a mortgage broker really costThe key takeaway? Get the right advice early, and you're far less likely to end up in a position where the bank starts calling.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
Miss one mortgage payment… what actually happens next?In this episode, Ed and Andrew walk through the exact step-by-step process banks follow when you stop paying your mortgage – from the first missed payment all the way to a mortgagee sale. You'll learn: The 7-step process banks follow How long does it really take before a home is sold Why one default could put your entire property portfolio at riskThe key takeaway? Missing one payment isn't the end of the world – but ignoring it is. The earlier you act, the more options you have. And in tomorrow's episode, we'll talk about how choosing the right mortgage broker can help you set things up properly from the 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
Which Auckland suburbs are actually worth investing in right now… and which ones should you avoid?In this episode, Ed and Andrew rank 15 Auckland suburbs from best to worst using real data ... and some of the results might surprise (or annoy) you. You'll learn: The top-tier suburbs (S & A) investors should be looking at right now The common traits of high-performing areas – and why some expensive suburbs rank poorly When a “bad” suburb could still be a great investment with the right propertyThe key takeaway? It's not about picking the “best” suburb, it's actually about knowing where to start looking. Great investors don't chase hype or prestige… they follow the numbers, spot emerging areas, and find the right deal within them.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 one point, his mortgage repayments were equal to his entire weekly income… and he still made it work.In this Case Study Sunday, Mitchell shares how he built, sold, and reinvested his way through tough cashflow years.You'll learn: How Mitchell turned a $500k house build into an $850k sale What it's like when your mortgage equals 100% of your income Why is he now shifting strategy The key takeaway? You don't need a perfect start – but you do need to adapt, learn from mistakes, and build a strategy that actually works for your life.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 think property should “pay for itself”… but what if it doesn't?In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down what negative gearing actually means, why many properties cost you money each week, and whether that still makes them a good investment. You'll learn: What negative gearing really is – and why most investors misunderstand it The 6 key reasons your rent might not cover your costs (even if the deal looks good) How you can still make money from a property that loses cash each weekThe big idea? Negative gearing isn't good or bad, it's just part of the trade-offs in property investing. 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
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