Smart Property Investment Podcast Network

In this episode of The Smart Property Investment Show, host Liam Garman sits down with Aus Property Report founder Myles Clark to unpack what investors really need to look for in building reports, as he debunks myths and clarifies confusing report language. They discuss the most common and costly defects that can catch investors off guard, from structural problems to hidden maintenance issues. The conversation then turns to the limitations of building inspections – what an inspector can't see, how to manage these blind spots, and how investors can distinguish between good and bad inspectors. Finally, they explore the differences investors should expect between houses and strata properties, including units and townhouses, before sharing Clark's top tips on protecting assets from long-term damage. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts and by following Smart Property Investment on social media: Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and LinkedIn. If you would l

In this episode of The Property Nerds podcast, hosts Arjun Paliwal, Jack Fouracre, and Adrian Lee sit down with Mark Speakman from the NSW Liberal Party to unpack Sydney's housing crisis and explore potential solutions. The discussion highlights how skyrocketing house prices, now 13 times the average income, have made home ownership increasingly unattainable for median earners. Speakman explains that the crisis is driven not only by demand but also by supply constraints, high construction costs, and significant government taxes that can add 25–40 per cent to the cost of a new home. The conversation covers recent planning reforms aimed at speeding approvals for medium-density housing and the importance of a simpler, more predictable planning system Speakman stresses that community consultation should guide master planning but not stall implementation at every stage of development. "Quick-fix" solutions like 5 per cent deposit schemes are debated, with experts cautioning that they address demand, not supply, an

In this episode of The Smart Property Investment Show, host Liam Garman is joined by seasoned investor Alex Whitlock to discuss the critical role of property managers in maximising returns and protecting investor portfolios. The conversation explores the differences between competent and mediocre property managers, the impact of compliance and legislative changes, and how proactive management can enhance rental yield. Whitlock shares personal insights and examples, highlighting how effective property management contributes to long-term portfolio growth. The duo also discusses technological advancements, such as automated payments and owner portals, and provides practical advice for investors considering a change in management. Overall, they emphasise that investors who align with a skilled, proactive property manager will achieve greater financial success. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts and by following Smart Property Investment on social media: 

In this episode of The Smart Property Investment Show, host Emilie Lauer is joined by Knight Frank's chief economist Ben Burston to explore what 2026 holds for Australia's commercial property market. Reflecting on 2025, Burston notes a year of recovery across sectors, with retail bouncing back, industrial continuing strong growth, and offices stabilising. Over the last 12 months, investor behaviour shifted, with private buyers diversifying into commercial sectors like childcare, quick-service restaurants, and data centres. Looking ahead, Burston expects steady growth, tempered by interest rate fluctuations, with opportunities for investors to acquire quality assets at attractive yields. State-specific insights highlight Melbourne's long-term potential, while Sydney and Brisbane are set for quicker gains, and construction costs and "high economic rent" dynamics are likely to drive rent growth and stabilise values. Burston sector-specific analysis points to prime offices and industrial infill locations as p

In this episode of The Property Nerds podcast, hosts Arjun Paliwal, Jack Fouracre, and Adrian Lee sit down with Kit Gunasekara from InvestorKit to explore why investors shouldn't wait for the "perfect opportunity" and take action to drive momentum. The conversation centres on the idea that taking imperfect action delivers progress, a mindset Gunasekara credits with helping him build a $5 million portfolio by his early 30s. Gunasekara shares how the discomfort of advising others before fully committing himself pushed him to start investing and think long-term about scalability. He reflects on early mistakes, including a poorly timed purchase of a Melbourne apartment, and explains how those setbacks became critical learning points rather than failures. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding land value, market cycles, and fundamentals instead of chasing hype. Gunasekara also outlines how a data-led approach in Queensland delivered strong growth by aligning strategy with market conditions. Now

In this episode of The Smart Property Investment Show, host Phil Tarrant is joined by Finni Mortgages principal Eva Loisance, along with brokers Costa Arvanitopoulos and Rebecca Carlson, to unpack standout property deals from 2025 and the strategies behind them. The discussion highlights how transparency, strategic planning, and creative financing can transform client outcomes, from first home buyers using the 5 per cent deposit scheme to investors leveraging self-managed super funds (SMSFs) to expand their portfolios. Loisance emphasises the importance of trust, warning against "financial infidelity" where undisclosed debts or hidden expenses can derail applications. Carlson shares examples of clients achieving ambitious property goals, while Arvanitopoulos illustrates how innovative solutions, such as debt consolidation and lenders mortgage insurance (LMI) waivers, can improve cash flow and unlock additional investment opportunities. The brokers stress the value of aligning with a knowledgeable professional

In this episode of Inside Commercial Property, host Phil Tarrant sits down with Scott O'Neill, CEO of Rethink Group, to review the performance of the Australian commercial property market in 2025 and unpack what investors should be preparing for as the market moves into 2026. This in-depth discussion revisits early-year predictions and holds them to account, analysing how interest rate cuts, supply shortages, lending conditions and investor sentiment shaped outcomes across key asset classes, including retail property, industrial property, and office assets. Drawing on insights from hundreds of transactions completed throughout the year, Scott provides a ground-level view of how capital has actually been deployed in the commercial market. Key commercial property trends from 2025 The episode explores why large format retail and neighbourhood shopping centres emerged as some of the strongest-performing commercial asset classes, supported by yield appeal, limited new supply, and resilient tenant demand. Scott a

In the second part of their discussion on The Smart Property Investment Show, managing editor Liam Garman and deputy editor Emilie Lauer explore how investors can position their portfolios for 2026 as market conditions shift. The conversation focuses on rising demand driven by government schemes, constrained housing supply, and the need for more disciplined, price-sensitive strategies. The pair urge investors to use the slower summer period to review cash flow, equity, rental performance, and portfolio structure, rather than chasing outdated hotspots. Additionally, they warn that widely publicised postcodes and AI-driven research tools can inflate demand and erode opportunity, reinforcing the importance of on-the-ground research and experienced advice. Looking ahead, diversification, particularly into commercial property, is emerging as a key theme for 2026. Garman and Lauer also stress the need for emotional discipline, cautioning against rushed end-of-year decisions, and highlight goal-setting and investor

In this episode of Inside Residential Property, host Liam Garman is joined by Rethink Residential senior buyer's agent James Thompson and investor Daniel to break down the realities of the buy-and-renovate property strategy – including when it works, when it doesn't, and why many investors underestimate the risks involved. Using Daniel's real investment journey as a case study, the episode explores how manufacturing equity through renovations and granny flats can accelerate portfolio growth – but also why rising construction costs, time commitments, cash flow pressure, and life-stage changes often force investors to reassess their strategy. Daniel shares how he began investing at a young age, purchasing uninhabitable properties, completing hands-on renovations, and adding significant equity through disciplined budgeting, suburb research and targeted upgrades. The conversation details how equity releases were used to fund granny flat construction and further property acquisitions, before examining how consecut

In a special summer episode of The Smart Property Investment Show, Phil Tarrant is joined by Eva Loisance, principal at Finni Mortgages, to reflect on the property deals that made a difference in 2025. The episode highlights the pivotal role mortgage brokers play in guiding Australians through complex investment finance decisions. Loisance shares real-world examples, including refinancing a neighbour's high-interest loan to save over $2,500 per month and dramatically reduce the mortgage term. Another case explores a client leveraging equity and strategic refinancing to grow a substantial property portfolio. The discussion also covers innovative strategies such as family pledges, which enable younger investors to enter the market without large deposits. Tarrant and Loisance emphasise the importance of ethical practices and informed decision-making in the broking industry. The conversation touches on challenges faced by self-employed investors and self-managed super fund (SMSF) users, underscoring the need for

In a special December episode of Property Investing Insights with Right Property Group, Phil Tarrant, co-host Victor Kumar, and guest Melissa Matheson wrap up the Design Your Decade series, reflecting on key lessons from property investment over 2025. The episode reviews insights from the series, sharing practical strategies, case studies, and real-world examples of building and optimising investment portfolios. Matheson illustrates how disciplined planning, strategic sell-downs, and professional guidance can streamline a portfolio for better long-term outcomes. With support from Kumar and the Right Property Group, she refined her holdings to a 10-property portfolio valued at nearly $10 million, with manageable debt. The conversation covers common challenges investors face, including refinancing, cash flow management, and navigating lending and tenant issues. Kumar emphasises that goal-setting, patience, and adaptability are key traits for successful investors. Matheson's story reinforces that property invest

In this episode of The Smart Property Investment Show, managing editor Liam Garman and deputy editor Emilie Lauer break down the year that was in Australian property, examining which markets surged, where momentum stalled, and why demand-side policy is setting the scene for further growth into 2026. The conversation explores interest rate predictions, refinancing options, and the economic forces driving inflation, highlighting why expert advice has become critical in an increasingly complex market. Garman and Lauer also unpack regional performance across the country, shifting buyer priorities, and the rise of the "compromise or miss out" mindset reshaping purchasing decisions, particularly among younger buyers. Looking ahead, they discuss why strategy will be central to navigating the next phase of the property cycle and tease part two of the series, focused on building sustainable, long-term property outcomes in 2026. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podc

In this episode of The Property Nerds, Arjun Paliwal, Jack Fouracre, and Adrian Lee explore the evolving landscape of property investment, focusing on regulatory changes, lending policies, and market dynamics shaping investor strategies. The discussion highlights the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority's (APRA's) new policy limiting high-risk investor lending to 20 per cent of banks' portfolios, potentially shifting opportunities toward brokers and non-bank lenders. The trio emphasises the importance of maintaining a long-term perspective, as life changes and cash flow constraints can affect borrowing capacity despite debt-to-income (DTI) ratios. Strategies such as rentvesting are discussed as ways to maintain a DTI under six while building a property portfolio. Lender Mortgage Insurance (LMI) waivers and extended 40-year loan terms are highlighted as tools that can reduce upfront costs and increase borrowing flexibility. Additionally, the discussion addresses the nuances of shading rental income in DT

In this episode of The Smart Property Investment Show, Phil Tarrant is joined by Lachlan Vidler from Atlas Property Group to challenge the myth that successful investors need massive property portfolios. They discuss how the idea of building $10 million portfolios is often driven by vanity rather than sound financial strategy. Drawing on Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) data, Tarrant notes that most Australian property investors own just one or two properties, not sprawling portfolios. Vidler explains that managing multiple properties brings similar complexity regardless of value, often increasing stress without improving outcomes. The conversation highlights how tighter lending conditions, elevated prices, and regulatory changes have made large-scale portfolio building far more difficult than it was decades ago. Instead, the duo argues that fewer, higher-quality assets can deliver stronger long-term results with fewer headaches. A practical example shows how acquiring a small number of properties over t

In a recent episode of How I Met My Broker, SPI host Liam Garman and director of Strategic Brokers Hung Chuy are joined by director of Australian Property Scout (APS) Sam Gordon to discuss the challenges and opportunities in commercial property investment. Chuy highlights the busy end-of-year lending period, noting that clients are seeking guidance amidst changing market conditions. Gordon reflects on APS's strong growth in 2025, including recognition as Entrepreneur of the Year and inclusion in the Australian Financial Review (AFR) Fast 100, setting the stage for a strategic 2026. The conversation explores the complexities of commercial property, including understanding yields, tax benefits, vacancies, and asset selection, emphasising that insufficient knowledge can lead to costly mistakes. Both Chuy and Gordon stress the importance of building a solid residential portfolio before transitioning into commercial investments to establish equity and minimise risk. Differences between residential and commercial l

In this episode of The Smart Property Investment Show, Phil Tarrant sits down with Jonathan Bell, founder of Housemark, to discuss the evolving role of property management in Australia. According to Bell, property managers often form the longest-lasting relationship an investor will have in their journey, making their role critical to portfolio success. Since founding Housemark in 2019, Bell has grown the company to manage 3,500 properties across Queensland and Victoria, focusing exclusively on property management rather than sales. He stresses that investing in people, training, and processes allows agencies to retain top talent and deliver superior service to landlords and tenants. Technology and economies of scale are key to Housemark's efficiency, enabling innovative solutions like roaming property managers and dedicated investment services. Bell also emphasises the importance of treating investment properties like a business, balancing rental yields with tenant satisfaction to maximise returns. Looking a

In this episode of The Smart Property Investment Show, host Liam Garman sits down with Sam Gordon, director of Australian Property Scout, to explore the strategy behind portfolio consolidation and when investors should make the leap into commercial real estate. Gordon begins by challenging the "never sell" mindset, arguing that strict buy-and-hold approaches can trap investors in years of stagnation. He breaks down how to identify when a market is nearing its peak, how to read stock levels and sentiment shifts, and why selling at the right moment allows capital to be recycled into higher-performing assets. The conversation turns to goal setting and reverse-engineering a strategy. Gordon explains how to map realistic and personalised financial targets, set monthly milestones, and build confidence through education, ensuring investors stay active and adaptable rather than locked into rigid plans. Gordon then offers a 101 on commercial real estate, discussing when it's the right time to consider transitioning in

In this episode of The Smart Property Investment Show, host Alex Whitlock is joined by Ross Le Quesne and Darsan Keshav to discuss navigating Melbourne's property market through a self-managed super fund (SMSF) and broader investment strategies. Whitlock shares his first SMSF purchase, highlighting Melbourne's potential for long-term capital growth despite recent market stagnation. Le Quesne explains the benefits of SMSFs, including opportunities for leverage and a favourable tax environment, while also noting the regulatory complexities involved. Keshav provides insights into Melbourne's current market, identifying growth pockets in the western and northern suburbs with strong rental yields and undervalued properties. The conversation includes a case study of Whitlock's St Kilda apartment purchase, showcasing strategic bidding, prime location, and careful analysis of comparable sales. The hosts also explore opportunities in other major cities like Brisbane and Sydney's surrounding areas, advising a focus on

In this episode of The Pure Property Podcast, Phil Tarrant and Paul Glossop explore the shifting landscape of Australian property investment as the market heads into 2026. They discuss the impact of government initiatives such as the 5 per cent deposit scheme and how these initiatives are influencing buyer behaviour and property values. While Treasury predicted only a modest 0.5 per cent price increase over six years, early signs suggest a more immediate market impact. The hosts caution that such initiatives may raise demand without easing the underlying supply shortage, especially as dwelling approvals decline and construction costs have dropped significantly since 2019. This environment presents both opportunities and risks for investors, particularly in the lower quartile, where growth potential remains strong. Cultural expectations around home ownership are evolving, prompting wider discussions on affordability and the role of rental markets. As 2026 approaches, investors are advised to monitor policy cha

In this episode of The Property Nerds, hosts Arjun Paliwal, Adrian Lee, and Jack Fouracre are joined by Molly Benjamin, founder of the Ladies Finance Club, to dive into how women are taking charge of their finances and turning education into confident investing. The conversation begins with Benjamin sharing her journey from living paycheck to paycheck to creating a platform supporting over 70,000 women in wealth-building and financial literacy. She recounts a pivotal moment in a London supermarket, where needing to ask a friend for money sparked her determination to take control of her finances and establish the club. The discussion highlights common psychological barriers, such as embarrassment about financial knowledge and women's tendency to save diligently but hesitate to invest. Benjamin emphasises practical strategies, including 'rentvesting', allowing women to enter the property market without overextending financially while building wealth elsewhere. Through real-life examples, she demonstrates how ac