Episodes

  • Deposit Bonds: How Do They Work and Should You Use One?

    Deposit Bonds: How Do They Work and Should You Use One?
    Feb 4 2025
    When buying property, having a cash deposit ready isn’t always straightforward. Maybe you’ve found the perfect home, but your funds are tied up, or you’re waiting on financial support from family. This is where deposit bonds can make all the difference, and they’re not as complicated as they might seem. In this episode, Bella Minns from Deposit Assure joins us to explain what deposit bonds are and how they work. Think of it as a guarantee that lets you secure your property now, even if the cash deposit isn’t immediately available. Bella takes us through real-life scenarios where deposit bonds come in handy, from first home buyers to those dealing with longer settlement periods or off-the-plan purchases. We also explore the costs involved, common misconceptions, and how deposit bonds have become a practical and accepted tool in today’s market. Bella shares insights on why this approach could work for you, especially if you’re managing the timing of your finances. If you’ve ever been curious about deposit bonds or are looking for alternatives to a traditional cash deposit, this episode offers a straightforward guide to help you understand how they can work in your favour. Tune in to learn more! Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Introduction 02:14 - Who is Bella Minns? 02:44 - What is a deposit bond? 04:14 - How deposit bonds work 05:44 - Are deposit bonds suitable for everyone, or just specific buyer types? 06:51 - How much do deposit bonds cost and how are they paid for? 09:54 - How do developers respond to long-term deposit bonds, and is pushback common? 12:33 - What changes have taken place in the perception of deposit bonds over two decades? 14:19 - How do buyers secure a deposit bond, and what happens if QBE has to pay? 15:30 - Steps buyers must complete before they can receive a deposit bond 16:53 - Is there a maximum amount for coverage? 19:23 - Key benefits of using the deposit bond 19:54 - Does the one-day turnaround for a deposit bond include both application and approval? 21:10 - If you miss out on a property, can you reuse the deposit bond for another purchase? 23:03 - Potential drawbacks of using a deposit bond that buyers should be aware of 27:21 - Do buyers need to discuss deposit bonds with their broker first? 28:56 - Bella’s advice for first home buyers considering using deposit bonds 29:38 - What’s a key topic you’d like to be answered as a first home buyer? About Our Guest: Bella Minns is a recognized Business Development Manager at Deposit Assure, known for her expertise in deposit bonds and strategic property solutions. She has been acknowledged as one of the top Business Development Managers in NSW/ACT and frequently shares her knowledge through webinars and industry discussions. Bella plays a vital role in promoting innovative products like the FLEXI Deposit Bond, helping brokers, buyers, and developers navigate complex purchase scenarios with ease and confidence. Connect with Bella Minns: Website https://www.depositassure.com.au/LinkedIn https://au.linkedin.com/in/bella-minns-9b64881aa Resources: FREE MINI COURSE: How to price property like a professional https://www.homebuyeracademy.com.au/freecourseMeet our recommended mortgage brokers at Home Buyer Academy https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/brokersVisit our website https://www.homebuyeracademy.com.au/Join our Facebook Group to get access to free monthly live Q&A sessionshttps://www.facebook.com/groups/yourfirsthomebuyerguideaustraliaLearn how to buy property without making a mistake with our ultimate 10-step online course for first time home buyers https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/YFHBGIf you have any questions or would like to be featured on our show, contact us at: Your First Home Buyer Guide Podcast support@homebuyeracademy.com.auLooking for a Sydney Buyers Agent? https://www.gooddeeds.com.auWork with Veronica: https://www.veronicamorgan.com.auLooking for a Brisbane Buyers Agent? https://www.propertypursuit.com.au/Work with Meighan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meighanwells/ If you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey! Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@YourFirstHomeBuyerGuidePodcastSubscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/your-first-home-buyer-guide-podcast/id1544701825Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7GyrfXoqvDxjqNRv40NVQs?si=7c8bc4362fab421fSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    38 mins
  • Sydney Case Study: How This Couple Turned a “Pass” Property Into Their Perfect Home

    Sydney Case Study: How This Couple Turned a “Pass” Property Into Their Perfect Home
    Jan 28 2025
    What does it take to turn a property you initially overlooked into the perfect home? In this episode, we talk about the journey of these first home buyers in Sydney who transformed their approach to property hunting and made an unexpected purchase of their dream home. From passing on a property they weren’t sure about to seeing its true potential months later, their story is full of lessons for anyone feeling stuck or overwhelmed in their search. We’ll hear about what it’s like to buy a home in Sydney’s competitive market, especially when starting with limited knowledge. From saving for a deposit to tackling new challenges like auctions and market research, this couple’s journey highlights the importance of preparation and staying flexible. They took the time to learn the process, refine their approach, and stick to their plan, no matter the pressure. What’s most inspiring is how they adjusted their expectations as they went. From rethinking non-negotiables to uncovering the hidden potential in a property others had overlooked, they learned that sometimes the best decisions come from seeing the bigger picture—and a fresh coat of paint doesn’t hurt either. If you’re starting your property search or feeling stuck along the way, this episode is a must-listen. It’s a reminder that with preparation, persistence, and a willingness to adapt, you can make smart, confident decisions and find the home that’s right for you. Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Introduction 04:05 - When they first decided they wanted to buy a property 05:00 - How long have they been in Australia, and how quickly did they save for a deposit? 09:15 - What drove them to learn and figure out the property-buying process? 10:48 - Did they take the home buyer course together or separately? 11:12 - How did their property search evolve after they started looking? 20:06 - Biggest ‘aha’ moments or key insights they had during their property-buying journey 22:23 - Handling the pressure during auctions and ensuring they stayed within their budget 27:18 - How they ultimately found and secured the property they purchased 30:42 - How did they take advantage of spring’s property market opportunities? 34:40 - How they feel now that they have a mortgage 36:56 - Advice they'd give to someone considering taking the home buyer guide course Resources: FREE MINI COURSE: How to price property like a professional https://www.homebuyeracademy.com.au/freecourseMeet our recommended mortgage brokers at Home Buyer Academy https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/brokersVisit our website https://www.homebuyeracademy.com.au/Join our Facebook Group to get access to free monthly live Q&A sessionshttps://www.facebook.com/groups/yourfirsthomebuyerguideaustraliaLearn how to buy property without making a mistake with our ultimate 10-step online course for first time home buyers https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/YFHBGIf you have any questions or would like to be featured on our show, contact us at: Your First Home Buyer Guide Podcast support@homebuyeracademy.com.auLooking for a Sydney Buyers Agent? https://www.gooddeeds.com.auWork with Veronica: https://www.veronicamorgan.com.auLooking for a Brisbane Buyers Agent? https://www.propertypursuit.com.au/Work with Meighan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meighanwells/ If you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey! Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@YourFirstHomeBuyerGuidePodcastSubscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/your-first-home-buyer-guide-podcast/id1544701825Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7GyrfXoqvDxjqNRv40NVQs?si=7c8bc4362fab421fSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    41 mins
  • What Happens When Due Diligence Isn’t Enough?

    What Happens When Due Diligence Isn’t Enough?
    Jan 21 2025
    When purchasing a property, due diligence is critical, but what happens when it isn’t enough? What happens when due diligence doesn’t uncover everything? In this episode, we tackle situations where hidden risks and undetected issues surface after the deal is done. From illegal building works to encroachments and zoning complications, we explore how title insurance steps in to protect homeowners from the unexpected. Paul Watkins from Stewart Title Insurance joins us to explain what title insurance is and why it’s so important. Unlike the usual home and contents insurance, title insurance covers issues with your property’s title—things like unapproved structures, council building notices, or disputes about boundaries. Paul walks us through how these risks work and shares some examples of how they’ve caused major headaches for property buyers. We also talk about what happens when councils issue building notices, often for things the new owners didn’t even know about, like an unapproved retaining wall or a deck. We talk about the steps you might have to take—like showing cause or applying for retrospective approvals—and why it’s often not as straightforward as you’d hope. And the kicker? These issues don’t just disappear because you weren’t the one who caused them. If you’ve ever wondered about the risks you take on when buying a property—or if you’ve already come across something unexpected—this is one conversation you don’t want to miss. Understanding title insurance could be the difference between a smooth experience and a costly, time-consuming mess. Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Introduction 02:22 - Meighan’s special house of the week 03:21 - Who is Paul Watkins? 03:34 - What is title insurance? 06:21 - Does title insurance cover injuries caused by unapproved structural failures? 08:16 - What buyers should know about building notices on purchased properties 13:40 - Rules of title insurance on unapproved or illegally built structures 14:32 - What is a GIPA? 18:01 - Does title insurance cover issues like missing certifications? 26:46 - How title insurance can address gaps in the due diligence process 40:05 - Does title insurance apply to strata property owners? 47:11 - Does title insurance cover unapproved flooring in strata apartments? 49:24 - How much does title insurance typically cost? 51:59 - Why title insurance is valuable, even for experienced property buyers 55:12 - What steps should buyers take to secure title insurance? 57:14 - What Paul wishes he knew as a first home buyer About Our Guest: Paul Watkins oversees the Underwriting and Legal Departments at Stewart Title, managing policy development, regulatory compliance, claims, and corporate legal matters. With a focus on building a knowledgeable and responsive team, he ensures efficient and ethical handling of title insurance and claims. Before joining Stewart in 2004, Paul gained extensive experience in insurance, property conveyancing, and development through private practice. He frequently presents on real estate topics and has contributed to Australian legal publications on title insurance. A finalist for “Insurance Lawyer of the Year” in 2019, Paul holds degrees in Law (Hons) and Social Sciences from the University of Canberra and is admitted as a solicitor in multiple Australian jurisdictions. Connect with Paul Watkins: Stewart Title Insurance Australia https://www.stewartau.com/LinkedIn https://au.linkedin.com/in/paul-watkins-39223936 Resources: FREE MINI COURSE: How to price property like a professional https://www.homebuyeracademy.com.au/freecourseMeet our recommended mortgage brokers at Home Buyer Academy https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/brokersVisit our website https://www.homebuyeracademy.com.au/Join our Facebook Group to get access to free monthly live Q&A sessionshttps://www.facebook.com/groups/yourfirsthomebuyerguideaustraliaLearn how to buy property without making a mistake with our ultimate 10-step online course for first time home buyers https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/YFHBGIf you have any questions or would like to be featured on our show, contact us at: Your First Home Buyer Guide Podcast support@homebuyeracademy.com.auLooking for a Sydney Buyers Agent? https://www.gooddeeds.com.auWork with Veronica: https://www.veronicamorgan.com.auLooking for a Brisbane Buyers Agent? https://www.propertypursuit.com.au/Work with Meighan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meighanwells/ If you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey! Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@YourFirstHomeBuyerGuidePodcastSubscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/your-first-home-buyer-guide-podcast/id1544701825Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7GyrfXoqvDxjqNRv40NVQs?si=7c8bc4362fab421fSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    1 hr and 2 mins
  • What Tax Benefits Can First-Home Buyers Gain from Rentvesting?

    What Tax Benefits Can First-Home Buyers Gain from Rentvesting?
    Jan 14 2025
    Rentvesting offers first-home buyers a unique way to get on the property ladder, but what about the tax implications? In this episode, we sit down with Catherine Simons, a seasoned tax accountant, to explore the nitty-gritty of how rentvesting can work in your favour financially. If you’re wondering about deductions, depreciation, and capital gains tax, you’re in the right place. We unpack the key differences between owning a home to live in and purchasing an investment property. We also explain concepts like negative gearing and how depreciation can be a cash-flow booster—even if the property is positively geared. We cover why planning is everything, from resetting valuations to understanding which expenses you can claim now versus those that get capitalised over time. For first-home buyers, we discuss common scenarios, like living in a property before renting it out versus renting first and moving in later. These situations come with vastly different tax rules, and Catherine shares practical tips to avoid costly mistakes. Her advice? Always keep detailed records and have the right experts guiding you. Sure, rentvesting can be a smart strategy for entering the property market, but it’s crucial to approach it with careful planning and the right advice. And this episode highlights the importance of understanding tax rules, making informed decisions, and working with professionals to maximise benefits while avoiding costly mistakes. Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Introduction 02:44 - Who is Catherine Simons? 03:21 - Key tax considerations for buying a home vs. an investment property 05:51 - Tax benefits and drawbacks: Owning a home vs. An investment property 10:21 - What property-related expenses can and cannot be claimed as tax deductions? 15:03 - Tax implications for first home buyers: Renting vs. Living in the property first 24:42 - Catherine’s advice for first home buyers 27:21 - Should you invest in property to lower your tax liability? 30:19 - What are the penalties for small claims on property expenses or deductions?? 33:09 - Misconceptions about restructuring debt for tax-deductibility in property investment 34:59 - What to know before transitioning from rentvesting to homeownership 37:40 - How hard is it for everyday investors to find a suitable accountant? 41:43 - What Catherine wishes she knew as a first home buyer Resources mentioned in this episode: WSC Group https://wscgroup.com.au/ Your First Home Buyer Guide Episode #205: Rentvesting: What You Need to Know Before Taking the Leap https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/podcasts/205 Your First Home Buyer Guide Episode #207: How Rentvesting Can Secure—or Sabotage—Your Financial Future https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/podcasts/207 Resources: FREE MINI COURSE: How to price property like a professional https://www.homebuyeracademy.com.au/freecourse Meet our recommended mortgage brokers at Home Buyer Academy https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/brokers Visit our website https://www.homebuyeracademy.com.au/ Join our Facebook Group to get access to free monthly live Q&A sessions https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourfirsthomebuyerguideaustralia Learn how to buy property without making a mistake with our ultimate 10-step online course for first time home buyers https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/YFHBG If you have any questions or would like to be featured on our show, contact us at: Your First Home Buyer Guide Podcast support@homebuyeracademy.com.au Looking for a Sydney Buyers Agent? https://www.gooddeeds.com.au Work with Veronica: https://www.veronicamorgan.com.au Looking for a Brisbane Buyers Agent? https://www.propertypursuit.com.au/ Work with Meighan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meighanwells/ If you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey! Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@YourFirstHomeBuyerGuidePodcast Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/your-first-home-buyer-guide-podcast/id1544701825 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7GyrfXoqvDxjqNRv40NVQs?si=7c8bc4362fab421f See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    45 mins
  • First Home Buyer Q&A: Loans, Career Changes, and Maximising Your Borrowing Potential

    First Home Buyer Q&A: Loans, Career Changes, and Maximising Your Borrowing Potential
    Jan 7 2025

    What happens when your dream of buying your first home collides with the realities of changing jobs, working overseas, or stretching your budget? In this episode, we’re joined by Chris Bates, one of Australia’s top mortgage brokers and co-founder at Blusk, to tackle these challenges head-on with practical advice and real-world examples to guide you through some of the common challenges of first-home buying.

    We start by addressing a common concern: how job changes impact your loan eligibility. Chris explains how banks assess different employment situations, including probation periods, career shifts, and even casual or part-time roles.

    Next, we dive into expat lending, a topic many Australians working abroad grapple with. We then explore the trade-offs between using first-home buyer grants and maximising borrowing power by purchasing an investment property.

    Finally, we talk about budget-stretching tips, including buying unrenovated properties, considering nearby suburbs, and keeping financial buffers. Chris also dives into the benefits of lender’s mortgage insurance, showing how it can be a valuable tool for first-home buyers when used strategically.

    Tune in to get clear, practical answers and build the knowledge you need to approach your first home purchase with peace of mind!

    Episode Highlights:

    00:00 - Introduction

    01:21 - How long should I work at my new job to qualify for a first-time home loan?

    05:58 - How much of a disadvantage is it to apply for a mortgage as an expat?

    10:51 - What’s the smarter choice: higher borrowing power or first-home incentives?

    16:09 - Does renting out spare rooms help increase loan capacity?

    22:32 - Is it better to buy a house now or after finishing my career change?

    36:42 - Chris Bates’ first home buyer property dumbo

    Resources:

    • FREE MINI COURSE: How to price property like a professional https://www.homebuyeracademy.com.au/freecourse

    • Meet our recommended mortgage brokers at Home Buyer Academy https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/brokers

    • Visit our website https://www.homebuyeracademy.com.au/

    • Join our Facebook Group to get access to free monthly live Q&A sessions

    • https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourfirsthomebuyerguideaustralia

    • Learn how to buy property without making a mistake with our ultimate 10-step online course for first time home buyers https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/YFHBG

    • If you have any questions or would like to be featured on our show, contact us at: Your First Home Buyer Guide Podcast support@homebuyeracademy.com.au

    • Looking for a Sydney Buyers Agent? https://www.gooddeeds.com.au

    • Work with Veronica: https://www.veronicamorgan.com.au

    • Looking for a Brisbane Buyers Agent? https://www.propertypursuit.com.au/

    • Work with Meighan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meighanwells/

    If you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey!

    • Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@YourFirstHomeBuyerGuidePodcast

    • Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/your-first-home-buyer-guide-podcast/id1544701825

    • Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7GyrfXoqvDxjqNRv40NVQs?si=7c8bc4362fab421f

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    43 mins
  • What You Need to Know Before Buying a Property in 2025

    What You Need to Know Before Buying a Property in 2025
    Dec 31 2024
    Buying a property in 2025 presents unique opportunities and challenges, but how can you make sure you're ready? The property market can feel overwhelming, with interest rates, media noise, and endless opinions flying around, but we’re here to cut through the confusion and give you practical advice that actually helps. We’ll start by breaking down why trying to time the market is a waste of energy. Let’s be real—no one knows exactly what’s going to happen. Instead, we’ll focus on what you can control, like getting your finances in order and understanding how to make a solid decision when the time is right. It’s all about buying when you’re ready, not when the media tells you it’s a good idea. We also touch on big trends shaping the market, like immigration, rental shortages, and government incentives. Schemes like Shared Equity sound great on the surface, but there’s a lot to think about. We’ll help you figure out if it’s the right move for you—or if it could end up costing you more in the long run. And, as always, we’ll talk about price research. If you’re serious about buying, you need to know your market inside and out. We’ll show you why understanding current sales data is the key to making confident offers and avoiding common mistakes. So, if you’re serious about making 2025 your year to buy, this episode is packed with insights to get you on the right track. Let’s make sure you’re ready to hit the ground running. Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Introduction 03:02 - A little throwback to what the 2023 and 2024 property market looked like 04:31 - How to prepare for property market shifts and rising competition 07:41 - Why timing the property market in 2025 might cost you more than you think 12:24 - Seasonal factors should buyers consider when entering the property market 18:12 - Current and ongoing challenges in the property market 26:13 - How immigration could impact Australia's housing demand 32:04 - Shared equity schemes and government interventions to address the housing crisis 36:36 - Cautions for property buyers: Strategies for 2025 success Resources mentioned in this episode: Grab our where to buy tutorial for only $39 right here: https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/workshop Resources: FREE MINI COURSE: How to price property like a professional https://www.homebuyeracademy.com.au/freecourse Meet our recommended mortgage brokers at Home Buyer Academy https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/brokers Visit our website https://www.homebuyeracademy.com.au/ Join our Facebook Group to get access to free monthly live Q&A sessions https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourfirsthomebuyerguideaustralia Learn how to buy property without making a mistake with our ultimate 10-step online course for first time home buyers https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/YFHBG If you have any questions or would like to be featured on our show, contact us at: Your First Home Buyer Guide Podcast support@homebuyeracademy.com.au Looking for a Sydney Buyers Agent? https://www.gooddeeds.com.au Work with Veronica: https://www.veronicamorgan.com.au Looking for a Brisbane Buyers Agent? https://www.propertypursuit.com.au/ Work with Meighan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meighanwells/ If you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey! Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@YourFirstHomeBuyerGuidePodcast Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/your-first-home-buyer-guide-podcast/id1544701825 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7GyrfXoqvDxjqNRv40NVQs?si=7c8bc4362fab421f See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    43 mins
  • Q&A: Deposit Risks, Rentvesting, and Grading Property

    Q&A: Deposit Risks, Rentvesting, and Grading Property
    Dec 24 2024
    Ever wondered if rentvesting is the way to go, what happens to your deposit if things fall through, or whether it’s worth stretching for an A-grade property? We’re tackling these big questions straight from our Facebook group in this episode. First, let’s talk about deposits. Did you know the rules around conditional offers and cooling-off periods vary state by state? We break it all down, from what happens if conditions aren’t met to why having a good solicitor is non-negotiable. Seriously, don’t sign anything without advice—your deposit might depend on it. Next, we dive into rentvesting. For some, it’s the perfect solution, but is it the right fit for you? Especially if you’re further along in life and buying your first home, we talk about how to weigh up living where you want versus making a smart investment. And spoiler: the right answer depends on what really matters most to you. Finally, we tackle the A-grade versus B-grade property debate. Should you go for a top-tier asset, even if it means tighter finances? We chat about when it’s worth stretching your budget, what makes a property truly “A-grade,” and why overcapitalising on a renovation in the wrong location is a big no-no. This episode is packed with real talk and practical advice to help you make better decisions on your home-buying journey. Let’s get started! Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Introduction 02:31 - Meighan’s special house of the week 03:05 - Will I lose my deposit if conditions I set aren't met in a conditional offer? 09:25 - Should a 59-year-old first-time buyer choose rentvesting over buying in Sydney? 13:07 - Is the financial stress of an A-grade property worth the potential benefits? 16:57 - Should you raise and renovate a property near a main road and apartments? Resources mentioned in this episode: Your First Home Buyer Guide Podcast Episode #135: How to Navigate the Unknown: Finding Homes in Unfamiliar Territory https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/podcasts/135 Your First Home Buyer Guide Podcast Episode #205: Rentvesting: What You Need to Know Before Taking the Leap https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/podcasts/205 Your First Home Buyer Guide Podcast Episode #173: Rentvesting or Homeownership: What’s the Smarter Move? https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/podcasts/173 Resources: FREE MINI COURSE: How to price property like a professional https://www.homebuyeracademy.com.au/freecourse Meet our recommended mortgage brokers at Home Buyer Academy https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/brokers Visit our website https://www.homebuyeracademy.com.au/ Join our Facebook Group to get access to free monthly live Q&A sessions https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourfirsthomebuyerguideaustralia Learn how to buy property without making a mistake with our ultimate 10-step online course for first time home buyers https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/YFHBG If you have any questions or would like to be featured on our show, contact us at: Your First Home Buyer Guide Podcast support@homebuyeracademy.com.au Looking for a Sydney Buyers Agent? https://www.gooddeeds.com.au Work with Veronica: https://www.veronicamorgan.com.au Looking for a Brisbane Buyers Agent? https://www.propertypursuit.com.au/ Work with Meighan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meighanwells/ If you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey! Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@YourFirstHomeBuyerGuidePodcast Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/your-first-home-buyer-guide-podcast/id1544701825 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7GyrfXoqvDxjqNRv40NVQs?si=7c8bc4362fab421f See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    24 mins
  • How Rentvesting Can Secure—or Sabotage—Your Financial Future

    How Rentvesting Can Secure—or Sabotage—Your Financial Future
    Dec 17 2024
    Rentvesting—it sounds like a smart way to get into the property market while keeping your lifestyle intact, doesn’t it? But is it the right move for your long-term financial future? This week, we unpack what it takes to make rentvesting work and how to avoid falling into common traps that could cost you more than you bargained for. Joining us is David Johnston, Mortgage Strategist at Property Planning Australia, to help us break it all down. We explore a hypothetical scenario where Kath, a first-time buyer, is trying to decide whether to buy a home to live in or an investment property while continuing to rent where she loves. Through this scenario, we unpack the hidden factors people often overlook—like borrowing capacity, government incentives, tax implications, and the risks of investing in markets that may not perform as well as expected. It’s about more than just numbers; it’s about having a plan that aligns with your lifestyle and future goals. David shares why forward planning is key, including structuring your loan in a way that keeps your options open down the track. Then, we also explore the trade-offs between high-yield and high-growth properties and why asset selection is critical if you want to avoid the pitfalls that catch so many first-time buyers out. If you’re considering rentvesting as a way to get ahead, this episode is for you. We unpack how to take a long-term view, weigh up your options, and make smart decisions that will set you up for success—not just now but for years to come. It’s all about being strategic and confident in your choices. Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Introduction 02:13 - Our guest for today – David Johnston 03:27 - To set the scene: should Kath buy a home to live in or an investment property? 06:37 - Does borrowing capacity differ when buying an investment property vs a home to live in? 07:52 - Short-term considerations when choosing between a home and an investment property 11:03 - Do interest rates have an impact on the choice between buying a home or investing? 14:09 - Challenges of rentvestors buying properties outside their state 25:21 - What needs to go right for rentvestors to afford their dream home later? 28:43 - Why does borrowing capacity go down when interest rates go up? 31:58 - Is it risky to buy a cheap property for rental income while saving for a home? 34:55 - What are the risks and benefits of renting out rooms in your owner-occupied property? 37:20 - What happens if you become an accidental investor by buying in an unfamiliar area? 45:14 - One thing David knows now that he wishes he knew as a first home buyer About Our Guest: David Johnston is the founder of Property Planning Australia, a firm dedicated to providing independent property and mortgage strategy advice. With a focus on helping families build wealth and security, David believes in the power of property as both a home and a financial asset. His approach centers on unbiased, client-focused advice, free from conflicts of selling investment products. David is also the author of How to Succeed with Property to Create Your Ideal Lifestyle and Property for Life – Using Property to Plan Your Financial Future, both published by Wiley. Connect with David Johnston: Website https://propertyplanning.com.au/ LinkedIn https://au.linkedin.com/in/david-johnston-8534871 The Property Trio Podcast https://www.propertytrio.com.au/ Resources mentioned in this episode: Your First Home Buyer Guide Podcast Episode #9: What is the Importance of a Borrowing Strategy? https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/podcasts/009 Resources: FREE MINI COURSE: How to price property like a professional https://www.homebuyeracademy.com.au/freecourse Meet our recommended mortgage brokers at Home Buyer Academy https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/brokers Visit our website https://www.homebuyeracademy.com.au/ Join our Facebook Group to get access to free monthly live Q&A sessions https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourfirsthomebuyerguideaustralia Learn how to buy property without making a mistake with our ultimate 10-step online course for first time home buyers https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/YFHBG If you have any questions or would like to be featured on our show, contact us at: Your First Home Buyer Guide Podcast support@homebuyeracademy.com.au Looking for a Sydney Buyers Agent? https://www.gooddeeds.com.au Work with Veronica: https://www.veronicamorgan.com.au Looking for a Brisbane Buyers Agent? https://www.propertypursuit.com.au/ Work with Meighan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meighanwells/ If you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey! Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@YourFirstHomeBuyerGuidePodcast Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/your-first-home-buyer-guide-podcast/id1544701825 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/...
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    50 mins