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
Renovating your own home can be one of the best ways to build equity, but it can also turn into a financial (and emotional) nightmare if you don't know where to start.In this episode, Ed and Andrew are joined by Peter Wolfkamp, The Resident Builder and host of Newstalk ZB's Sunday morning show, to reveal how to DIY the smart way.You'll learn:The #1 mistake most DIYers make with renovation budgetsWhich projects can you safely tackle yourself – and which require a licensed builderHow to calculate if DIY is actually cheaper once you factor in your time and toolsPeter also shares real stories, including how overconfidence (or ignoring consents) can cost you thousands.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
What do property investors really want for Christmas?In this special holiday episode, Ed and Andrew unwrap last year's wish list to see what Santa delivered … and which of them ended up with nothing but a lump of coal from the Reserve Bank.You'll learn:What we wished for last Christmas, and which predictions actually came trueThe 2026 investor wishlistWhich one of us clearly landed on the naughty list after getting none of our wishesThis light-hearted episode wraps up the year with insights, reflection, and a festive look at what investors are hoping for next.
You've listed your property … the first offer comes in … but is it really the best one you'll get?In this episode, Ed and Andrew dig into the old real estate saying “the first offer is often the best” – and whether you should trust it or hold out for a higher price.You'll learn:When it makes sense to reject an early offer and wait for competitionWhether the “first offer is best” rule is genuine wisdom or just agent pressureHow one homeowner made an extra $400k by choosing to hold outEd and Andrew unpack real case studies and give you a practical framework to judge any offer confidently and avoid leaving money on the table.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
“Buy the worst house on the best street” – classic Kiwi advice … but is it actually good in 2025?In this episode, Ed and Andrew delve into the data behind this old property mantra, revealing when it works brilliantly and when it can turn into a costly mistake.You'll learn:Whether the “worst house, best street” strategy still stacks up todayWhat the numbers say about capital growth in top suburbs vs cheaper areasWhen this strategy works, and when it's a bad idea for long-term investorsThis episode highlights situations where buying a fixer-upper makes sense … and why many investors are better off choosing properties with stronger yields and fewer maintenance headaches.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
Do property investors really need a financial adviser – or can you just DIY it?In this episode, Ed and Andrew give an honest breakdown of what advisers actually do, what they cost, and the situations where you genuinely need one … and the ones where you absolutely don't.You'll learn:What a property investment adviser actually gives you How adviser fees work The 7 signs you do need an adviser … and the 7 signs you probably don'tThis episode gives you a clear, practical way to decide whether an adviser will genuinely add value to your journey – or whether you're already on the right track without one.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
Tim's journey from Army deployments to Antarctic expeditions – and later, the Aussie mines – wasn't just about adventure. It was about financial independence. In this episode, Ed and Andrew sit down with Tim to unpack how he creates long-term wealth for his young family.You'll learn:How a $170k Whanganui reno turned into a $365k success storyHow working overseas became his secret weapon to fund property dealsWhat he'd do differently if he could start againTim's story proves that you don't need perfect timing or a massive income – just determination, adaptability, and a plan that fits 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 wonder: How much do I actually need to retire – and what will I really spend?In this episode, Ed and Andrew sit down with Associate Professor Claire Matthews, the researcher behind Massey University's Retirement Expenditure Guidelines, to unpack what current retirees spend and what that means for your plans.You'll learn:What the latest 2025 retirement spending numbers revealHow to use – and how not to use – the Retirement Expenditure GuidelinesWhat to do if the big retirement numbers feel overwhelmingThis episode gives you a clear, evidence-based way to understand what retirement might actually cost – and how to build a plan without getting lost in 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
Most Kiwis dream of starting their own business, but what if your biggest source of startup capital is the home you already live in?In this episode, Ed and Andrew unpack how some Kiwi families use their mortgage to launch a business, including real stories from around the country.You'll learn:How to borrow against your house to fund a new ventureWhy over $1.1 billion was taken out of Kiwi homes last year for business purposesThe hidden risks most first-time founders never see comingThis episode shows how using your mortgage can be a powerful way to become your own boss – but also why.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 set big money goals at the start of the year … but how many of us actually follow through?In this episode, Ed and Andrew look back at the goals they set 12 months ago – and reveal whether they actually hit their 2025 targets.You'll learn:Whether Ed and Andrew achieved their renovation, mortgage, and investment goals this yearHow to set money and property goals that actually stick The new goals they're committing to for 2026 This episode shows that progress isn't always linear, some goals change as life does, and even seasoned investors sometimes need to prioritise debt reduction over buying the next 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
Some renovations look good on Pinterest – but won't add a cent to your property's value. In this episode, Ed and Andrew sit down with Wayne Gordon from Refresh Renovations to uncover the upgrades that actually boost your property's return on investment.You'll learn:Which renovations consistently deliver the highest ROI for Kiwi investorsWhen to manage a reno yourself vs. hiring a full-service renovation teamThe biggest traps that cause renovation budgets to spiralIf you're planning a project in 2025, this episode shows how to spend smart – not more – and turn every dollar into a genuine gain.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
Choosing a financial adviser can feel overwhelming – so how do you know who's actually right for you?In this episode, Ed and Andrew reveal a simple 5-step process that every Kiwi can use to find an adviser who fits their goals.You'll learn:How to decide which type of adviser you actually needThe 5 steps to shortlist, check, and compare advisersThe key details you must look for before booking a meetingThis episode provides a clear, practical framework for choosing the right adviser with confidence, enabling you to get the plan, advice, and follow-through you need.In this episode we mentioned MoneyHub's list of financial advisers originally published by Mary Holm.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
Some banks look cheaper than others – but the real question is: which bank actually gives you the lowest mortgage rate once you dig into the data? In this episode, Ed and Andrew reveal what really happens when you compare every bank's mortgage rates over time – and why the “cheapest” bank often isn't the one you think.You'll learn: Which banks consistently offer the lowest 1-year and 2-year rates Why some banks appear more expensive, but aren't once you negotiate How to read between the lines so you don't get fooled by advertised ratesThis episode helps you choose the bank that truly gives you the best deal, and it's better to work with a mortgage adviser.And if you'd like to book a free meeting with one of the Opes Mortgages team, just click the link.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
By his early 30s, Josh had already built a 3-property portfolio – with homes in Twizel, Christchurch, and Milton. In this episode, Ed and Andrew sit down with Josh to unpack how he used creative saving tactics, family deals, and long-term planning to build wealth early.You'll learn:How Josh turned a $210k section in Twizel into a future development opportunityThe clever negotiation that saved $20k on a Christchurch co-ownership dealWhat buying from family taught him about money, boundaries, and mindsetJosh's journey shows that you don't need luck to get started – just a plan, persistence, and a few unconventional choices.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 how long it takes to sell a house – but how long does it actually take to buy one?In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down the real timelines, from getting pre-approval to getting the keys, and why some buyers take months while others move in just weeks.You'll learn:The true timeframe to buy a house How the “perfect property checklist” can stop you from ever making a decisionThe fastest and slowest property purchases Ed and Andrew have ever seenThis episode provides a clear and realistic picture of how long buying really takes, and how focusing on your needs (not endless wants) can help you move faster and with far less stress.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
New Zealanders talk about property like it's a national sport – but why? In this episode, Ed and Andrew dig into the underlying reasons behind our national obsession with property.You'll learn: Where our property obsession actually comes from, and why it's so different to other countriesHow events like the 1987 sharemarket crash pushed a whole generation toward “safe as houses” Whether government policies secretly steer us toward propertyEd and Andrew delve into the Kiwi mindset to understand why property has become the default route to wealth, despite the majority of Kiwis not owning investment properties.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
What really happens when the Financial Markets Authority turns up to review your business?In this episode, Ed and Andrew take you behind the scenes of the FMA's monitoring visit to Opes – what the regulator looked for, what they found, and what it means for property investors.You'll learn:Why the FMA visited OpesWhat it's actually like to sit in front of the country's financial regulatorThe three key improvements the FMA required – and how Opes has respondedThis episode shows how regulation protects investors, and why transparency makes for a stronger, more trustworthy business.Don't forget to create your free Opes+ account and Wealth Plan here.For more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
In this special bonus episode, you'll hear the audio from the recent Property Live webinar where we looked at "What's going to happen to the property market in 2026"In this podcast you'll learn:the predictions we got wrong last yearwhat we think will happen next yearAnd how the 2026 calendar looksFor more from Opes Partners:Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletterInstagramTikTok
Townhouses are now a big slice of New Zealand's new builds. But some investors worry these modern builds could look tired, cheap, or even slum-like in a decade. So … will they?In this episode, Ed and Andrew uncover what makes some townhouses age beautifully – while others fall apart. You'll learn:3 key warning signs a townhouse won't age wellWhy cladding type, location, and upkeep make all the differenceHow to spot a “future slum” before you buyEd and Andrew reveal real examples and explain how to tell if your new build will stand the test of time.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
It's never felt harder to find a good tenant – rents are stalling, and some properties are sitting empty for weeks.In this episode, Ed and Andrew ask economist Tony Alexander whether this is the new normal for landlords … or just another ugly part of the cycle.You'll learn:The real reason it's suddenly so hard to get a good tenant (and why it flipped so fast)When rents are likely to bounce back and start rising againWhat smart landlords should do nowEd, Andrew and Tony show why this tough rental market won't last forever – and how to come out the other side with a stronger portfolio, not a fire sale.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 finally moving again … but is this the start of a proper boom, or just another dead cat bounce?In this episode, Ed and Andrew ask economist Tony Alexander to look into his crystal ball and reveal what he really thinks will happen to New Zealand house prices over the next five years.You'll learn:What Tony expects for house prices in 2026 – and the long-term growth rate he's betting onWhat would actually happen to the market if a capital gains tax landed in NZHow low (or high) interest rates could go over the next three years Ed and Andrew delve deeper with Tony, exploring how cycles, politics, and interest rates intersect to shape your investment strategy for the coming decade.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
Christine bought her first home in Christchurch at just 23, with her parents going as guarantors. Fast-forward 30 years, and she and her husband Ross have built a nationwide portfolio.In this episode, Ed and Andrew chat with Christine about three decades of lessons – how smart investing, patience, and a bit of Kiwi grit built lasting wealth.You'll learn:How Christine turned one guarantor home into a multi-city property portfolioWhat 30 years of market cycles taught her about resilience and timingWhy “boring” investing often wins over flashier, short-term strategiesThis episode demonstrates how steady, long-term investing can transform an ordinary beginning into extraordinary results.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
New Zealand feels like it's falling apart – shrinking GDP, rising unemployment, and a wave of Kiwis heading for Australia.In this episode, Ed and Andrew ask economist Tony Alexander the big question: Is the economy actually munted, or are we just in another normal cycle?You'll learn:Why today's downturn feels dramatic, but isn't the worst we've seenThe real reasons NZ swings harder than other economiesWhen things might finally start getting better (and what will kick off the recovery)Ed, Andrew and Tony break down what's perception, what's data, and why history suggests the upswing may be closer than most people 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
Moving out of Auckland sounds like a fast track to a cheaper, quieter life – but how much money do you actually save? And what do you give up in return?In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down the real numbers behind selling up (or moving out) of Auckland and shifting to a smaller town.You'll learn: How much you can save on housing, rent, commuting and daily expenses The trade-offs that hit your wallet when your income changes The three types of people who benefit the most from movingEd and Andrew also reveal the hidden catches most movers don't see coming, and why your job type – and whether you can work remotely – matters more than anything else. 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 have plunged nearly 3% in two years, but how long will the good times last?In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down the latest forecasts, revealing when rates could fall further … and when they're likely to turn and start creeping up again.You'll learn:What the 1-year mortgage rate is predicted to do from now through 2027How long should you consider fixing your mortgageWhy can all forecasts (including this one) change overnightThis episode provides a realistic outlook on potential interest rate changes and offers guidance on planning your mortgage with confidence.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
Some Kiwis sacrifice everything for their future. Others spend it all today and hope it'll work out. But what's the right balance when you want to enjoy life now without sabotaging tomorrow?In this episode, Ed and Andrew dig into the real tension between investing for the future and living a little today.You'll learn: How to decide when to invest and when to spend (without regret) The #1 way to avoid money arguments with your partner • How to spend guilt-free by setting the right rules upfrontEd and Andrew explain why “sort your future first” is often the simplest solution, how to build a wealth plan in Opes+, and why listening to the same content helps couples get on the same page. 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 don't need to stop earning an income at 65, but the smartest ways to do it aren't always obvious. In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down six different ways to earn income at 65 – from term deposits to managed funds to property income – and reveal the hidden catches in each option.You'll learn: How long $1 million really lasts across different options • The pros and cons of six retirement-income strategies Which method leaves you with the most money after 20 years of retirementEd and Andrew walk through the real numbers and show which strategies preserve your wealth, which drain it, and how to choose the right plan for your retirement.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 to avoid unnecessary costs, stress, and headaches so your properties stay profitable?In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down the biggest mistakes landlords keep making (and why they cost far more than most people realise).You'll learn: The most common landlord errors that quietly drain your returns How simple admin and process mistakes turn into expensive problems The smarter way to manage your properties so they actually make moneyEd and Andrew explain why these slip-ups occur in the first place – and the practical fixes every investor should implement before things go wrong. And click this link if you like to 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
Nicole was terrified to hit “send” on the email that got her here. But now, at just 30, she and her fiancé own three properties. In this episode, Ed and Andrew sit down with Nicole to discuss how she overcame her fear, learned the numbers, and used her $3 million Wealth Gap as motivation to take action.You'll learn:How Nicole built a 3-property portfolio by 30 What a $3 million Wealth Gap is, and how it pushed her to take actionThe mindset shift that turned hesitation into financial confidenceThis is a story for anyone who's ever thought, “I want to invest… but I'm scared to 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
Most Kiwis think they know what makes a house worth more, but the real answers are often totally different once you look at the data. In this episode, Ed and Andrew sit down with Nick Goodall, Head of Research at Cotality NZ, to unpack the country's Hedonic Index – a new way to measure property values by analysing a home's individual features. You'll learn: The real features that make a house more valuable Which renovations statistically add the most value How does this new data help investors understand the market more clearly This episode shows you how to use data, not guesswork, to make smarter renovation and investment decisions.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
Economists are supposed to predict the future, but how do they actually do it? And how accurate are those forecasts, really?In this episode, Ed and Andrew sit down with Sharon Zollner, Chief Economist at ANZ New Zealand, to reveal how economists build (and sometimes miss) their predictions. You'll learn:The maths, data, and gut instinct that go into a forecastWhy house sales, interest rates, and migration are key to predicting property trendsThe biggest mistakes economists (and investors) make when reading the marketEd and Andrew also ask Sharon about her latest ANZ forecasts, whether NZ's economy has truly turned a corner, and why house prices still shape how Kiwis feel about 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
The Reserve Bank has just delivered its final OCR cut of the year ... but what does that mean for mortgages, investors, and house prices heading into 2026?In this episode, Ed and Andrew unpack the numbers from the latest announcement and explain why this cut might be the last one in this cycle.You'll learn:How far has the OCR fallen this year Whether mortgage rates could keep dropping – or start creeping back upWhat the Reserve Bank's “crystal ball” says about house prices next yearThis episode shows why a lower OCR doesn't guarantee cheaper mortgages, how much more rate movement is possible, and what investors should realistically expect in 2026.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 you've built a property portfolio, at some point you'll face the tough question – which one should you sell first? In this episode, Ed and Andrew explain how to decide what to sell, when to sell, and how to make sure you walk away with the most money possible.You'll learn:The 6 most common reasons investors sell Why selling your “worst” property isn't always the smartest financial moveHow to calculate what you'll actually get to keep after fees and taxEd and Andrew reveal how to think beyond quick fixes – and show why sometimes, selling the property with the most equity can set you up for your next big move.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 you've ever looked at buying a property in Christchurch, you've probably seen TC Zones on the map. But do they still matter today, and what do they actually mean for you?In this episode, Ed and Andrew unpack what TC1, TC2, and TC3 really mean, how they were created, and whether they're still useful in 2026.You'll learn:What TC Zones are and how they relate to liquefaction riskWhy are site-specific Geotech reports now more accurate than old zoning mapsHow to use them as a property buyerEd and Andrew also share how insurance, lending, and building standards have evolved – and what every buyer should check before purchasing in a former earthquake zone.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 investors scroll through Trade Me and hope to “spot” a deal. But Ed and Andrew reveal there's a smarter, systematic way to filter out the duds and find the winners.In this episode, you'll learn:7 proven hacks to find property deals before anyone else sees themHow to identify motivated sellers (and avoid costly reno traps)The #1 data tool to analyse whether a property's really a deal or just a dudForget gut feel. Ed and Andrew walk through how to use market data, “days on market,” and off-market listings to find real opportunities others miss.Get the tools mentioned in this episode:Area AnalyserTenant ToolDon'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
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
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