For too long, the finance and property investing conversation has been dominated by masculine energy – risk-taking, aggression, and competition. But there’s a shift happening. Women are stepping up, not only as earners but as investors and wealth creators. And it’s about time.
On Episode 208 of the Australian Property Investment Podcast, Aaron Christie-David sat down with Amanda Thompson – Ironwoman, heart attack survivor, and author of Financially Fit Women – to unpack the realities of what it’s like for women to take control of their money in a system that hasn’t always included them.
This isn’t just a token conversation about gender. It’s a deep dive into the fears, habits, emotions, and social conditioning that shape how women approach finances – and what needs to change. Watch the full episode here.
Aaron kicks off the conversation by calling out the elephant in the room: the finance and property space has traditionally been geared toward men.
Amanda agrees. “We’re all driven by fear,” she says, “but how we respond to fear differs. Women often seek safety and stability. Men tend to push forward and take risks.”
In financial terms, that can look like women delaying investing because it “feels risky,” or hesitating to use equity because it’s tied to their sense of security. Meanwhile, men may be more likely to “give it a crack” without fully assessing the emotional consequences.
And that’s not a stereotype – it’s backed by Amanda’s years of experience advising both men and women.
Let’s be clear: it’s not a woman’s lack of intelligence or interest that’s holding her back from building wealth.
It’s fear.
Amanda often hears female clients say, “I’m just not good with numbers,” or “My ex used to handle all the finances.” There’s shame, embarrassment, and a deep fear of looking silly in front of a professional.
But as Amanda bluntly puts it: “You don’t need to be good at spreadsheets to have financial acumen. That’s our job – to explain money in a way that makes sense to you.”
Atelier Wealth’s team has long embraced this philosophy through visual strategy videos, easy-to-understand breakdowns, and ongoing education for clients. Because let’s face it: an email full of finance jargon doesn’t work for anyone – not even men.
Many women today are earning more than their fathers ever did. Yet they’re still expected to retire with less.
Amanda explains why: “I’m 49 and statistically, I’ll live six years longer than a man my age – but with less superannuation. We take more career breaks. We care for children, parents, and others. And we’re still catching up from the generations where women weren’t allowed to work after marriage.”
It’s no wonder many women lean towards conservative money habits. They’ve been taught – consciously or not – that it’s safer to save than to invest.
But safety can also mean stagnation.
Here’s a surprising truth: Amanda hates the word “budget.”
“It feels restrictive, like someone’s pointing a finger telling me what I can and can’t do,” she laughs.
Instead, she reframes it as a “spending plan.” One that empowers clients to choose where their money goes and builds a surplus through intentionality – not restriction.
This shift in mindset creates a more positive association with money. Like training for a marathon, Amanda believes financial habits should start small, feel achievable, and build momentum.
Start with $50 a week in savings. Get a win. Increase to $70. The endorphins from success? Just as powerful in money as they are in sport.
Both Amanda and Aaron agree that there’s no such thing as a purely rational investor.
“We’re talking about money, risk, and our future – how could it not be emotional?” Aaron says.
For women especially, financial decisions are often intertwined with legacy, family, and lifestyle – not just spreadsheets.
Amanda explains how she uses the “Five Whys” method to help clients go deeper:
Why do you want to buy a home?
Because I want security.
Why is security important?
Because I want to raise my family in one place.
Why?
Because I grew up in a stable home and want the same for my kids.
By the fifth “why,” the true driver is revealed: love, safety, belonging. Those are powerful reasons to build wealth.
One of the most powerful takeaways from this episode is the idea that couples cannot build a financial future on two different blueprints.
Aaron shares candidly about the moment he and Bernadette aligned on their financial goals – and how it changed everything.
Amanda encourages all couples to write down their financial goals separately before bringing them together.
“You won’t be completely honest if you’re doing them jointly,” she says. “But once you understand what drives your partner – and find common goals – you can create a unified plan.”
A recurring myth Amanda and Aaron both encounter is the fear that “using the equity in my home is dangerous.”
Let’s be blunt – it’s not.
Amanda encourages clients to ask themselves why they believe that. Is it a genuine financial concern, or inherited fear from a parent or past partner?
Aaron adds: “Not investing is risky. Sitting on equity in your home while inflation eats away your savings is a risk. There are safe ways to access and leverage equity.”
But it requires education, support, and guidance – something both Amanda and the Atelier team provide through transparent, values-led conversations.
Amanda is adamant that good financial advice is about more than just numbers.
“If you don’t feel a personal connection with your adviser – male or female – you’re with the wrong one,” she says.
She encourages clients to ask questions. Be curious. And push back when they don’t understand something.
“I’m not your best friend,” Amanda says. “I’m here to hold you accountable for your financial future.”
That blend of empathy and tough love is exactly what clients need – and what the best professionals offer.
Every person carries a money story – often inherited, unexamined, and full of emotional baggage.
Maybe you grew up watching your parents fight about money. Maybe you were told it’s “rude” to talk about wealth. Maybe you were praised for saving but never taught how to invest.
Amanda’s advice? “Understand your money story. Ask yourself: where did this belief come from? Does it still serve me?”
Only then can you rewrite the script.
From estate planning to risk-taking, Amanda reminds listeners that financial empowerment is a form of self-care.
“When I was in ICU after a heart attack, I had to call my lawyer to update my will. That moment made it real,” she says.
Clarity is kindness – for you and your loved ones.
So whether it’s setting up power of attorney, insurances, or finally learning how your super works, these are not just tasks. They’re acts of love for your future self and your family.
Aaron closes the episode with a powerful reminder:
“Don’t compare your journey to someone else’s. A 27-year-old investor is playing a very different game to a 45-year-old parent. Stay in your lane.”
At Atelier Wealth, we’re here to meet you where you are – with empathy, strategy, and a roadmap that feels right for you.
Whether you’re just starting your financial journey or ready to level up, know this: there’s no shame in asking questions. Only strength in starting.
Looking to build a values-aligned property investment plan?
Get in touch with the team at Atelier Wealth. Whether you’re flying solo or planning as a couple, we’ll help you build a blueprint that’s right for you.
In the world of property investing, most conversations focus on hotspots, yields, and lending strategies. But for those who’ve truly succeeded, there’s a common thread: mindset.
In this episode of the Australian Property Investment Podcast, host Aaron Christie-David opens the door to a deeper discussion with mindset coach Jodie Cooper—one that goes beyond the numbers to unpack the psychology of wealth-building. If you’ve ever felt stuck, regretful, or uncertain on your investing journey, this conversation will help reframe how you approach property, money, and life. Watch the full episode here.
In this blog, we’ll explore the 5 key mindset themes from the episode:
And most importantly, how these shape your capacity to succeed in property and life.
We’ve all heard it—or said it ourselves:
“I should’ve bought before COVID.”
“I missed the boat.”
“If only I’d started sooner.”
Regret is one of the most common emotional roadblocks for investors. And while it’s natural to feel frustrated over missed opportunities, Jodie shares that regret, if left unchecked, becomes a ball and chain.
🔑 Key takeaway: Acknowledge regret with compassion—but don’t dwell. According to research in positive psychology, when we linger in regret, our focus narrows and we become less likely to engage, grow, or take action.
💡 Mindset shift: Instead of asking “What if I’d bought sooner?”, start asking “What can I do now?” That simple reframe unlocks possibility, planning, and forward momentum.
Resentment often builds under the surface—whether it’s frustration with a partner who wasn’t on board, or comparisons to friends who had family support. For couples, this emotional undercurrent can derail both relationships and financial goals.
Aaron shares a common dynamic: one partner deep-dives into podcasts and research, while the other is blindsided by a “we should buy this” conversation out of nowhere.
Jodie explains the importance of alignment, especially in partnerships:
“You can’t build a house with two different blueprints.”
🎯 Practical step: Don’t just talk strategy. Talk values. Ask each other:
These conversations create shared vision, not division.
What’s the difference between investors who give up after one burst hot water system—and those who keep growing despite setbacks?
Resilience.
And here’s the twist: Jodie says resilience isn’t about being hit repeatedly and bouncing back. It’s about managing your own well-being so you can stay in a positive state more often. That’s where good decisions get made.
“Resilience is about taking care of your well-being—so you can make good choices more often.”
Aaron calls this wealth-being: your mental state is closely tied to your financial reality. When you’ve got buffers in the bank, you sleep better. When you’re redlining, even small issues feel overwhelming.
🛠 Resilience-building habits:
Accept that pain is part of the game—and learn to move through it, not avoid it.
So many investors chase portfolios without stopping to ask: what am I actually working toward?
Clarity isn’t just about how many properties you want. It’s about understanding:
Aaron reflects on his own journey—balancing business success with being a present father and partner. He admits he’s struggled to celebrate wins or feel like he’s “made it,” because the to-do list is never-ending.
Jodie offers a simple but powerful reframe:
“You are enough. You have enough. And from here, anything else is a bonus.”
🌱 Actionable tip: Define your version of “rich moments.” It could be time with your kids, walking the beach, or sleeping well knowing your mortgage is covered. These moments fuel contentment—and help you avoid the burnout that comes from endless striving.
Ultimately, investing isn’t a solo game. And while many focus on financial ROI, Jodie and Aaron highlight emotional ROI: the strength of your relationships.
Connection means:
Aaron’s Property Accelerator community is a perfect example. It’s not just about sharing property tips—it’s about being surrounded by like-minded people who get it.
“If you’re listening and you lack community or accountability, that’s what the Accelerator is here for. There’s no advice, just people walking the journey with you.”
👥 Connection builds:
It also gives you a safe space to explore ideas, challenges, and growth without judgment.
Aaron sums it up beautifully:
“This game is won and lost in the mindset.”
You can have the borrowing capacity, the cash, and the strategy—but if your mindset isn’t dialed in, you won’t make the most of the opportunities in front of you.
If this episode stirred something in you—whether it’s a desire for more alignment, more self-compassion, or a stronger community—start there.
✅ Talk to your partner about your values.
✅ Reflect on what season of life you’re in.
✅ Join a community that supports growth without pressure.
✅ And most importantly, give yourself the grace to be a work in progress.
Whether you’re a first home buyer trying to get over the deposit hurdle, or a seasoned investor planning your next move — having the right lending strategy is key.
💬 Contact the team at Atelier Wealth — we’ll help you structure your finance for success, make the most of what’s available to you, and find a path forward in any market.
📣 Want to join a community of growth-focused property investors?
DM us “Accelerator” and we’ll share how to get involved.
In Australia, property ownership has long been seen as a rite of passage — the milestone that marks adulthood, financial success, and stability. But what happens when an entire generation starts to question whether it’s even worth it?
In this eye-opening episode of the Australian Property Investment Podcast, host Aaron Christie-David sits down with Professor Elizabeth Sheedy, household finance expert and lecturer at Macquarie University, to unpack one of the most thought-provoking studies on young Australians and their evolving relationship with home ownership.
Professor Sheedy’s research, based on months of deep qualitative interviews with 70 Australians aged 18–40, reveals a surprising shift: many young adults are rejecting the dream of owning property altogether — not because they can’t afford it, but because they no longer see it as desirable.
This blog dives deep into the key findings from the episode, the societal and financial forces behind them, and what they mean for home buyers, renters, property investors, and policymakers alike. Watch the full episode here.
We often assume that home ownership equals financial success. That it’s the end goal. That once you own a property, you’ve “made it.” But Professor Sheedy’s data tells a more complex story.
Through intimate, repeated interviews with participants across various life stages, she found that:
This study isn’t just about money — it’s about mindset, values, and how shifting life priorities are influencing our biggest financial decisions.
One of the most startling insights from Professor Sheedy was this:
“Homeowners, particularly in the early years, actually experience lower financial wellbeing than renters.”
Wait — what?
That’s right. Owning a home doesn’t automatically make you wealthier or happier. Especially in the beginning, many homeowners feel financially stretched, burdened by hidden costs, maintenance, unexpected damage, or bad construction.
Add to that:
And you begin to understand why home ownership isn’t always the fairytale it’s cracked up to be.
In finance, we talk a lot about interest rate risk — and yes, most buyers today are aware of how RBA rate decisions affect their loans.
But there are many under-discussed risks in property:
And perhaps most dangerously: the false sense of security that owning a property = stability. For many, that illusion is shattered the first time a major issue arises.
What do you call a 30-year mortgage?
According to Patrick (38, good income, renting in Sydney’s eastern suburbs): “A death contract.”
Patrick’s story was one of many in the study who equated a mortgage not with freedom, but with bondage. And he’s not alone.
Professor Sheedy highlighted a growing psychological trend among younger Australians:
Some would rather rent forever than give up travel, creativity, or career agility just to “climb the ladder.” For these people, property doesn’t feel like a dream — it feels like a trap.
Another recurring theme was the tension between freedom and stability.
One participant, Linda, bought a home with a partner. After a breakup, a storm damaged the roof, her insurance short-changed her, and she was left paying a mortgage on an uninhabitable house and her rent interstate. The result? She’s scarred for life and never wants to own again.
Then there’s Jessica, 24, who says she might want to buy later — but right now, it’s all about travel, friends, and experiences.
Aaron put it well:
“At 24, you should be able to live life on your terms. You don’t have to be shackled to a mortgage.”
This highlights a profound generational change: freedom and flexibility now rank above security and status for many young Aussies.
Michelle Obama coined the phrase “house poor”: when you technically own a home but are financially stressed and stretched thin.
It’s a reality for many new homeowners today. With property prices skyrocketing and interest rates climbing, more people are:
Aaron raised a crucial point:
“No one’s heart bleeds for you if you own a home — but behind the scenes, many are suffering silently.”
One silver lining for property investors?
If more Australians choose to rent permanently, demand for quality rentals will increase.
But here’s the catch:
Professor Sheedy shared horror stories of renters being mistreated — something that’s fuelling demand for institutional landlords (like build-to-rent models) over “mum and dad” investors.
So, for individual investors, the message is clear:
“If you want to stay competitive, be a good landlord. Otherwise, renters will seek more professional alternatives.”
In a follow-up study, Professor Sheedy tracked how the same 70 participants navigated the rising cost of living in 2023.
Key insight?
Financial resilience isn’t just about how much you earn — it’s about how well you adapt.
Some strategies participants used:
Others felt totally stuck. Particularly single parents, who lacked time, flexibility, or mental bandwidth to pivot.
Social capital (having family/friends to lean on) and psychological resilience (ability to accept discomfort and change) played a massive role.
Yes, Bernard Salt’s famous smashed avo comment came up.
And surprisingly, Professor Sheedy agrees — to an extent.
Yes, some young adults are extremely disciplined. But others are spending freely on Botox, luxury travel, and designer brands without saving or planning.
“I’m 62 and I’ve never had Botox,” she laughed. “Why spend your money that way in your 20s?”
Aaron made the connection to fitness:
“It’s like wanting to get fit but eating junk food every day. If you want property, your bank statements have to match your ambition.”
Here’s where things get real.
If you choose not to buy a home, you must still invest elsewhere — or risk retiring in poverty.
Professor Shi stresses this:
“Our pension system assumes people own their homes. If you plan to rent for life, you need to invest the savings you make from not having a mortgage — in shares, ETFs, or super — or you’ll be eating cat food in retirement.”
Aaron added:
“Investing never goes out of fashion. Whether you buy your home or rentvest, you’ve got to move the needle on your financial future.”
A big takeaway from the episode is that current policies assume everyone wants to own property. But what if that’s no longer true?
Should we:
Professor Shi predicts that as attitudes change, policy will have to catch up. Investors should prepare for that debate.
“Why do we give massive tax breaks for one asset class (property) and not others (like shares)? It’s hard to justify long-term.”
Whether you’re a seasoned investor, a first-time buyer, or someone trying to figure out your next move — here’s what this episode reinforces:
Not everyone wants it. Not everyone needs it. But everyone needs a plan.
It’s not always a guaranteed path to wealth — and early years can be financially draining.
But you must invest that surplus money, or risk falling behind long-term.
It’s not just how much you earn. It’s how well you pivot.
Better tenants want better landlords — professionalism and ethics will win in the future market.
Whether you’re a first home buyer trying to get over the deposit hurdle, or a seasoned investor planning your next move — having the right lending strategy is key.
💬 Contact the team at Atelier Wealth — we’ll help you structure your finance for success, make the most of what’s available to you, and find a path forward in any market.
📣 Want to join a community of growth-focused property investors?
DM us “Accelerator” and we’ll share how to get involved.
The great Australian dream of home ownership is under threat — but is it too late to save it?
In this eye-opening episode of the Australian Property Investment Podcast, Aaron Christie-David sits down with Senator Andrew Bragg, the Shadow Minister for Home Ownership, to unpack what’s really going on behind the scenes of the housing crisis — and what can be done about it.
From policy reform to superannuation to planning red tape, this episode takes a hard look at what’s standing in the way of younger Australians owning a home and how the government could — and should — respond. Watch the full episode here.
Forget super balances and share portfolios — Senator Bragg makes it clear that home ownership is the number one predictor of a stable retirement. The catch? It’s slipping out of reach for an entire generation.
“Since World War II, we’ve always been a country of homeowners. But now, we risk becoming a country where owning a home is the exception — not the norm.”
It’s not just about wealth creation. It’s about giving families a stable foundation, encouraging population growth, and keeping Australians invested in their communities. If millennials and Gen Z can’t buy in, Australia changes — socially, economically, and politically.
Bragg doesn’t sugarcoat it: Australia has a massive supply problem. Housing completions have dropped from 195,000 a year under the previous government to just 170,000 — all while the population grew by over one million in two years.
“We’re not building fast enough, and we’ve let migration soar. That’s a recipe for crisis.”
Add in rising construction costs, rigid building codes, and planning bottlenecks, and it’s no wonder first-home buyers are struggling. To address this, Bragg is proposing a $5 billion national supply fund — aimed at unlocking new land by funding essential infrastructure like sewerage, roads, and utilities.
Here’s what Bragg and his party are advocating for:
This is the headline policy — and one of the most controversial.
“The average 38-year-old has $90,000 in super. Let them use it to buy a home.”
Bragg argues that allowing younger Australians to access up to $50,000 of their super for a first home deposit bridges the “deposit cliff” without relying on government handouts. He claims the policy would have minimal market impact, dismissing the pushback from industry super funds as “self-serving lobbying.”
APRA’s 3% serviceability buffer has become a roadblock for many borrowers, even those on strong incomes. Bragg believes it’s time to reassess these rigid rules, especially for first-home buyers.
“We’ve got regulators making decisions that are crushing buyers — and they’ve never been elected or held accountable.”
He proposes reducing the buffer and reforming how APRA makes its decisions, adding much-needed flexibility to the lending landscape.
Building costs have skyrocketed, in part due to constantly evolving building code requirements. Bragg suggests a 10-year freeze on the National Construction Code to reduce costs and give developers certainty.
Naturally, these policies have their critics. Bragg isn’t shy in responding.
On the claim that letting people use super will destroy their retirement outcomes:
“The data says otherwise. Homeowners retire in better shape than renters — financially and psychologically.”
On accusations that policy tweaks will distort the market:
“An $11 trillion property market isn’t going to wobble because 150,000 first-home buyers accessed super.”
On the idea that negative gearing and capital gains tax reform would fix the problem:
“It’s a red herring. Tweaking those would barely shift prices. The real issue is not enough houses.”
Aaron raises a critical point: what about those who don’t qualify for schemes or lack support from the “Bank of Mum and Dad”? Bragg is clear-eyed in his response:
“We can’t save everyone. But we can give people more levers — and most importantly, build more homes. That’s how we help everyone.”
Whether it’s renters, migrants, or second-time buyers, more supply benefits all demographics. And better access to lending and deposits gives individuals the chance to meet the system halfway.
One of the most thought-provoking sections of this episode is the debate around government responsibility.
Bragg acknowledges that housing is complex — federal, state, and local governments all play a role. But he insists the federal government has powerful levers at its disposal: banking policy, superannuation rules, migration settings, and funding mechanisms.
“We’re not here to run planning departments, but we are here to pull the big policy levers — and we should be using them.”
This conversation isn’t just political commentary — it has real implications for buyers and investors:
Aaron and Senator Bragg also touch on the importance of public sentiment and media narratives. In the absence of strong policy direction, fear and misinformation thrive — and that doesn’t help anyone.
This episode isn’t a political pitch — it’s a reality check. The dream of home ownership isn’t dead, but it is under pressure. Senator Andrew Bragg brings forward bold (and sometimes controversial) ideas — and whether you agree with them or not, they’re part of a vital national conversation.
“The two biggest issues this election? Cost of living and housing affordability. And we need real solutions — not just slogans.”
Whether you’re a first-home buyer trying to get over the deposit hurdle, or a seasoned investor planning your next move — having the right lending strategy is key.
💬 Contact the team at Atelier Wealth — we’ll help you structure your finance for success, make the most of what’s available to you, and find a path forward in any market.
📣 Want to join a community of growth-focused property investors?
DM us “Accelerator” and we’ll share how to get involved.
What does it really take to achieve financial freedom through property? Is it an inheritance? A high income? Or something far less glamorous — like relentless consistency, uncomfortable conversations, and the courage to start before you’re ready?
In Episode 204 of the Australian Property Investment Podcast, Aaron Christie-David sits down with returning guest Ravi Sharma — founder of Search Property and author of Retire Filthy Rich — to unpack the mindset, strategy, and sacrifices behind building a high-performing property portfolio. And spoiler: it’s not about luck.
If you’ve ever wondered whether the dream of retiring comfortably (or “filthy rich,” as Ravi cheekily calls it) is still within reach for young Australians, this conversation proves the answer is yes — but only for those willing to play the long game. Watch the full episode here.
Ravi’s book title, Retire Filthy Rich, triggered mixed reactions from publishers. In a market where housing affordability is under fire, the phrase sounded tone-deaf.
But for Ravi, being “filthy rich” isn’t just about money.
“Filthy rich to me is being absurdly rich in life — in relationships, in contentment, in purpose.”
It’s a mindset shift. And it’s that shift — not a silver spoon or secret strategy — that’s propelled Ravi to a 15+ property portfolio by his early 30s.
That said, mindset without action is just wishful thinking. Ravi credits his success not to being extraordinary, but to making above-average decisions — consistently. It’s about staying in the game, even when it gets hard.
Ravi’s journey didn’t begin with a million-dollar inheritance or a six-figure salary. It started with a decision: to stop being average.
His property journey is the condensed essence of his book — real stories, real numbers, and the lessons he’s picked up from years of investing and speaking to thousands of Aussies trying to do the same.
Here’s a staggering stat he shares:
Less than 0.01% of Australians own more than six investment properties.
It’s not that most people don’t want financial freedom — it’s that very few are prepared to make the sacrifices required to get there. From dealing with trust structures and legal paperwork to pushing through lending roadblocks and renovation setbacks, the process is rarely glamorous.
But Ravi insists: “Property rewards those who can be resilient and think long-term.”
One of the most powerful takeaways from this episode? Most investors don’t stop scaling because of money. They stop because of mindset — or misalignment with their partner.
Aaron and Ravi both highlight how crucial it is for couples to be on the same page.
“What starts out as a journey toward financial freedom often becomes financial friction,” Aaron observes.
In fact, Ravi points to mismatched financial compatibility between couples as one of the biggest handbrakes on building wealth. “One partner wants to go for it, the other wants to play it safe. That gap kills momentum,” he says.
This is why Aaron and the Atelier Wealth team encourage pre-investment conversations — the property version of pre-marital counselling — to align visions and get buy-in before jumping into major financial decisions.
Social media, property forums, and YouTube can make you feel like everyone is buying their fifth investment or flipping properties on the weekend. Ravi warns against this echo chamber.
Just because someone you follow online is 10 steps ahead doesn’t mean you’re behind — they’ve just been playing the game longer.
Instead of comparing, Ravi suggests zooming out and recognising how rare your current position is:
“Even owning one investment property puts you ahead of the vast majority of Australians.”
The AFA estimates that only around 635,000 Australians fall into the “rich” category, defined as $2.5–$10 million in assets excluding the family home. Most are over 60, own a business or SMSF, and have multiple sources of wealth — with property playing a starring role.
One of Ravi’s most powerful lines from the episode?
“You’re making average decisions but expecting extraordinary results. It doesn’t work that way.”
Too many people say they want financial freedom — but they outsource the desire. They wait for the market to cool, for their partner to get on board, for their broker to “just make it happen.”
What they really need is clarity, courage, and accountability. Aaron calls it out:
“If you’re not in the driver’s seat, don’t be surprised if you end up somewhere you don’t want to be.”
That’s exactly why he built the Accelerator community — to give ambitious investors a space where they’re supported, challenged, and celebrated. Because the truth is, most investors don’t have people in their circle who get it.
Whether it’s Ravi flying to LA for a podcast creator program with Spotify, or Aaron signing his 20th trust deed for a new property acquisition — this conversation is about seeing what’s possible when you stay in the game.
Ravi’s advice for those starting out?
“Don’t get caught up in comparison. Just start. Take the first step. Learn. Commit. And don’t stop.”
For those further along the journey?
“Level up your circle. Stop listening to average advice if you want above-average results.”
Whether you’re trying to buy your first investment or scale from 3 to 10, you don’t have to figure it out alone.
💬 Get in touch with Atelier Wealth — our team of strategic mortgage brokers can help you map out your next move, boost your borrowing capacity, and structure your loans like a pro.
📣 Want to join a community of like-minded investors?
DM us “Accelerator” and we’ll share how to get involved.
If you gave a builder two different blueprints for the same house, they’d look at you like you were nuts. And yet, that’s exactly how many couples try to build wealth together. One partner wants to invest aggressively, the other wants to feel secure in a family home. One is all about the numbers, the other leads with emotion. One’s thinking equity, the other’s thinking school zones. And because they never really sit down and get on the same page, they spin their wheels for years—debating, delaying, second-guessing—and never build the life they both want.
In this episode of The Australian Property Investment Podcast, I sat down with Arjun Paliwal from InvestorKit to dive into one of the most important, yet rarely discussed, aspects of property investing: doing it as a couple. What emerged was a conversation far deeper than locations and lending structures. We talked about mindset, health, partnership dynamics, and the simple but powerful systems that separate those who scale from those who stall. If you’re in a relationship and you’re serious about building wealth through property, this is the roadmap you’ve been waiting for. Watch it here.
We kicked off the episode not with interest rates or suburb picks—but with health. And that’s no accident. Arjun opened up about a serious health scare he had last year: emergency open-heart surgery. It wasn’t planned. It wasn’t expected. But it changed everything. Coming out the other side, he dropped 30+ kilos, reset his focus, and made his wellbeing the number one priority. And rightly so—because if your health fails, your wealth doesn’t matter.
Think about it. What’s the point of a 10-property portfolio if you’re too exhausted, unwell, or mentally burnt out to enjoy it? We’ve both seen clients who’ve built impressive portfolios… but are miserable. And we’ve seen others who’ve built a sustainable life that includes both financial security and happiness. If your health—physical, mental, emotional—isn’t part of your wealth strategy, you’re missing the foundation. It’s not just about cash flow and capital growth. It’s about creating a life worth living.
You’d be surprised how many couples come through our doors earning six figures each—and yet they’re stuck on one or two properties. On paper, they’ve got it all: stable incomes, good savings, plenty of borrowing capacity. But behind the scenes? Indecision, misalignment, and emotional tension. One person wants to buy their forever home now, the other wants to keep investing. One feels anxious about debt, the other sees it as leverage. Without clarity, the strategy falls apart.
It’s not always dramatic, either. Often it’s subtle. You’ll hear things like “We were going to buy again this year, but we’re still unsure if we should buy a home first.” And just like that, another year slips by. It becomes this cycle of half-decisions and false starts. Arjun calls it “champagne taste on a beer budget”—where the desire is big but the execution never follows through.
The first step is the simplest—and the most overlooked. Sit down together and talk about your vision. Not just for the next purchase, but for your lives. What do you actually want your future to look like? What kind of lifestyle are you building? What level of income do you want in retirement? Where do you want to live? What kind of flexibility or freedom matters to you?
It sounds obvious, but most couples never take the time to really articulate this. When you set shared goals, something shifts. You move from being two individuals with separate ideas… to a team with a shared mission. You can align your strategy to that vision, and suddenly decision-making gets easier. It’s not about who’s right—it’s about what gets you closer to your agreed destination.
Once you’ve got the shared vision, the next step is structuring your roles. Think about your property journey like a business. No successful company has everyone doing everything. The CEO doesn’t run payroll. The CFO doesn’t do social media. Great businesses have clear divisions of responsibility—and great investing couples do too.
Arjun and his wife split their investing roles into macro and micro. He handles the big-picture stuff: strategy, location selection, acquisition timing. She handles execution: finance paperwork, liaising with brokers, managing insurance, organising contracts. There’s no micromanagement or double-checking—just trust. And that’s key. When each person owns their lane, you stop arguing over details and start making real progress.
Not every couple will split things the same way. Maybe your partner is the strategy person and you’re the executor. Doesn’t matter. What matters is that each person feels empowered and supported—and that no one’s stepping on toes. You’re not fighting over decisions; you’re collaborating on outcomes.
One of the biggest sources of tension for couples is the question of rentvesting versus buying a home. You know the story. One person wants stability. They want to nest, put up pictures, settle down. The other wants to chase equity and leverage into multiple properties before locking in a principal place of residence. This emotional tug-of-war can derail even the best-laid plans.
What Arjun shared was powerful. He and his wife had this exact debate. But instead of brushing it off, they broke it down. They looked at the time, cost, and stress of moving every year or two. They factored in hotel stays during transitions, removalist fees, and emotional energy. And guess what? Even with all that, renting still came out cheaper than a mortgage in their target area. More importantly, it allowed them to build their portfolio first—setting them up for a better home purchase later.
If you’re struggling with this conversation as a couple, try removing the emotion and doing the math. Run the numbers. If it makes financial sense to rent and invest, then anchor back to your shared goals. What’s more important—painting walls this year, or buying time and options for the next ten years?
Investing should not be a once-every-five-years kind of activity. The best investors operate on routine. They review their valuations yearly. They meet with their broker annually. They set KPIs—how much they want to save, how many deals they want to do, what their next purchase should achieve.
Rules matter too. Just like businesses have financial rules—buffers, budgets, reinvestment ratios—so should your portfolio. For example, you might set a rule that once your buffer exceeds $50K, the next $20K goes into a deposit. Or, you might review your properties annually and draw equity only if you’re above a certain loan-to-value threshold. These rules remove decision fatigue. They give you a roadmap so you’re not constantly asking “Should we invest again?” You already know when and why.
This is the question I hear all the time: Can I do both? Can I build a portfolio and own my dream home?
The answer is yes—but it takes discipline, sequencing, and trade-offs. For some couples, the best approach is to delay the home until the portfolio has traction. For others, it means buying a long-term family home now—but avoiding the trap of constant upgrades. As Arjun pointed out, if you’re always upgrading every few years, chasing the bigger backyard or the nicer suburb, you’re constantly resetting your mortgage and slowing your momentum.
What works better is buying a home you can comfortably live in for 10+ years, and then focusing on investment properties that deliver passive income. And don’t forget, your home is capital gains tax exempt. If you downsize later, that equity can fund a debt-free investment portfolio. So yes, it’s possible—but only with intention and planning.
Here’s the trap most high-income earners fall into: as their income goes up, so does their lifestyle. A nicer car. More holidays. An upgraded kitchen. And suddenly, the surplus cash that could have been invested gets swallowed up by consumption.
We talked about this at length in the episode. Delayed gratification isn’t about never enjoying your money—it’s about being smart with timing. Just because you can take on a $1.5M mortgage doesn’t mean you should. Just because you can buy the new BMW doesn’t mean it’s the right move now.
Discipline compounds. If you can hold off lifestyle upgrades until your portfolio is humming, the payoff is exponentially greater. And down the track, you won’t be saying no to your kids or to experiences. You’ll be saying yes—without stress.
Let’s address the elephant in the room. Can you invest successfully without using a buyer’s agent? Sure. Plenty of people do. But here’s the catch: it’s slower, harder, and riskier.
Most DIY investors take 6–12 months to buy a property. Arjun’s clients? 2–4 months. That time difference isn’t just convenience—it’s lost compounding. It’s missed capital growth. It’s the cost of inaction.
More importantly, buyer’s agents bring access. Arjun’s team secures 70% of their properties off-market. These are deals the public never sees. And because of their volume and relationships, they get first dibs on stock, better insight into price movements, and more influence with agents.
Execution matters more than education. You can read all the reports and listen to all the podcasts—but if you don’t act, nothing changes.
At the end of the day, property is just a tool. The real wealth is clarity.
Clarity about what you want.
Clarity about your timeline.
Clarity with your partner.
Clarity in your strategy.
Clarity in your next move.
When you and your partner get aligned—really aligned—everything else becomes easier. You’ll stop second-guessing. You’ll stop stalling. And you’ll start building something that truly reflects the life you want to live.
If you take one thing away from this episode, let it be this: the most important real estate you can ever develop is the space between your ears. Because when your mindset is strong, your vision is clear, and your partnership is united—there’s no limit to what you can build.
Join the Property Accelerator—our free investor community built for action-takers who want to surround themselves with the right people. DM us “Accelerator” on Instagram or LinkedIn to join.
Talk to our award-winning team at Atelier Wealth. We’ll help you get clear, confident, and on the move—without the stress or confusion
Every investor wants the edge. The suburb no one’s talking about. The golden postcode with explosive growth. The off-market deal that turns $50K into $500K. But after nearly a decade as a mortgage broker with a front-row seat to thousands of transactions… I can confidently say this:
The greatest hotspot for property investment in Australia is not on any map. It’s in your mindset.
That’s right. The most undervalued, underdeveloped, and underutilised piece of real estate? It’s between your ears.
This episode is your wake-up call. If you’ve been sitting on the sidelines, stuck at one property, or spinning your wheels waiting for the “perfect time”—then what follows could change everything.
Let me walk you through my 10-point blueprint to investing in yourself first—so you can grow your property portfolio with clarity, resilience, and real wealth. Watch it here.
Want to know what every seasoned investor, top athlete, and high-performing businessperson has in common?
They’ve done hard things.
The most transformative moments in my life—whether it was launching Atelier Wealth, scaling to multiple properties, or speaking on national stages—started with discomfort. And honestly? That’s where the real growth lives.
I’ve said this in front of 1,000+ brokers across the country: comfort is the enemy of progress.
Whether you’re buying your first property or your fifteenth, there will be fear. There will be self-doubt. And there will be challenges. But each time you push through, you level up—not just your portfolio, but your mindset.
I learned this the hard way—lugging sandbags up sand dunes during a Commando-style boot camp. I thought I was being smart, only filling my bag 70%. But one of the instructors clocked it and said, “How you do anything is how you do everything.”
That slapped me in the face—and it stuck.
In property, I see it all the time: people chasing silver bullets. Buying through exotic structures. Hunting for the next “hotspot.” Trying to fast-track results without putting in the reps.
But here’s the truth: there are no shortcuts to building a solid property portfolio.
Smart strategy. The right finance. Buying boring fundamentals. Rinse and repeat. That’s how the long-term players win.
If no one around you is doing what you’re trying to do, it’s going to feel lonely—and hard.
I’ve been lucky to spend time with some of Australia’s wealthiest investors. One dinner at a $28 million mansion in Brisbane changed the game for me. The owner, a former refugee, didn’t flaunt his wealth. He shared how he built it—step by step, through property, from absolutely nothing.
That dinner wasn’t just inspiring. It expanded what I believed was possible.
You can’t become what you’ve never seen modeled. That’s why mentorship, community, and proximity to success matter. Surround yourself with people who’ve done it—or are on the same path.
Let me keep it real: property investing can be stressful. Rates rise. Tenants move out. Hot water systems fail. And just when you’re ready to go again, a lender throws you a curveball.
But guess what?
That pressure means you’re in the game.
Pressure is a privilege. It means you’re not sitting in the stands—you’re on the field.
If you’re lucky enough to own one, two, or more properties in Australia, you’re already ahead of 90% of the population. And if you’re chasing six or more? You’re in the top 1%.
Your problems are champagne problems. The key is learning how to manage pressure—not run from it.
So many investors come from a place of fear.
Fair questions. But here’s a better one:
What if it works?
What if this next purchase sets up your retirement? What if you build generational wealth? What if your kids grow up with a new financial blueprint because you broke the cycle?
Fear and caution have their place. But if they stop you from taking action, they’re costing you more than they’re protecting you.
This one might sting a little.
Over the years, I’ve had hundreds of people book in for loan strategy sessions… only to do nothing.
Three years later, they return saying, “I wish I’d bought when we first spoke.”
I don’t say that with judgment. But it proves a point: the market rewards action, not analysis paralysis.
Are you an investor? Or just someone who likes the idea of investing?
Don’t just talk about building wealth. Make moves. Meet the broker. Call the buyer’s agent. Book the inspection. Submit the offer.
Building wealth isn’t about big bursts of effort—it’s about showing up consistently over time.
Here’s a stat that blew my mind: 90% of podcasters quit before episode 3. Of those who make it past 3, 90% quit before episode 20.
We just hit Episode 202.
That’s what resilience looks like. That’s what building a portfolio looks like too.
It’s easy to buy one property. Two, maybe. But to get to 5, 6, or 10+? You need a plan. You need grit. And you need to keep going when others quit.
One of the most common things I hear from clients is: “No one in my life gets it.”
That’s exactly why I launched the Property Accelerator community. A space where goal-driven investors can grow together—share wins, ask questions, and stay accountable.
Success isn’t a solo sport. If your inner circle thinks you’re crazy for buying another property… it might be time to find a new circle.
You don’t have to do this alone. Join a community that matches your ambition.
Success shouldn’t come as a surprise. If you want a 10-property portfolio, you’ve got to act like the kind of person who builds a 10-property portfolio.
You need:
I highly recommend Atomic Habits by James Clear and Mindset by Carol Dweck. They’re both practical roadmaps to building a stronger you.
Because the person you are today won’t get you to where you want to be tomorrow. You need to evolve. And the best part? You can.
This episode wasn’t about a hot suburb. It wasn’t about yields, offsets, or capital gains. It was about the real work—the internal work—that drives external results.
So now it’s over to you.
👉 Will you invest in your mindset? 👉 Will you take action on your goals? 👉 Will you surround yourself with people who lift you higher?
Because if you’ve read this far, I know one thing: you’re serious.
People will borrow $40K at 12% for a car. But won’t invest $2K into a course, a mentor, or personal development.
People complain about 6% investment loan rates—but don’t blink at paying $130 for car detailing.
Let that sink in.
If you’re not investing in the one thing that drives all your income—you—then you’re missing the highest ROI play there is.
I call it wealth-being: the intersection of your health, mindset, and financial future.
You want a better portfolio? Start by being a better investor. Start by investing in yourself.
🎯 Join the Property Accelerator: DM “Property Accelerator” on LinkedIn or Instagram and we’ll get you into the community.
💰 Need a lending strategy that matches your ambition?
Book a strategy session with the team at Atelier Wealth.
Let’s build your wealth—between your ears and beyond.
As the Australian property market heads into a new phase, investor sentiment is shifting—but confusion remains. With rate cuts finally on the table, political noise getting louder, and headlines declaring everything from a housing crash to a new boom, many buyers are asking the same question:
“What should I do next?”
In Episode 201 of the Australian Property Investment Podcast, Aaron Christie-David sits down with one of the most trusted voices in the industry—Michael Yardney—to unpack exactly that.
Michael’s no stranger to long-term investing. With over five decades of property experience, a blog ranked among the top 50 worldwide, and an empire that spans residential, commercial, and development assets, he offers a rare combination of insight, data, and lived experience.
Here’s what they uncovered—and why 2025 may look very different to what the so-called experts are predicting. Watch the full episode here.
Michael opens with a strong statement: most predictions will be wrong.
It’s not that experts don’t have the tools. They’ve got access to interest rate models, population data, housing supply pipelines, and macroeconomic forecasts. But they’re missing the one variable that changes everything: human behaviour.
“Investor sentiment is what really moves the market—and it’s impossible to quantify.”
Michael argues that while it’s easy to track things like wage growth or building approvals, it’s far harder to predict how confident Australians will feel in 3, 6, or 12 months’ time. And yet, it’s that confidence that drives action. Buyers don’t wait for the perfect rate—they act when they feel safe.
In short? Don’t wait for the experts to call the bottom or the top. They’re usually wrong. Instead, build a plan that allows you to move with confidence, regardless of where the market’s at.
In a line that sums up his whole philosophy, Michael says:
“Predicting rain doesn’t count—building an ark does.”
What he means is this: market ups and downs are inevitable. The smart investors aren’t the ones who try to time every rise or fall—they’re the ones who build resilience into their portfolios. That means:
At Atelier Wealth, we’ve always championed this strategic approach. Rate cuts and lending tweaks might spark a short-term surge, but your long-term success depends on having the right structures and a portfolio built to withstand the storms.
Following the first RBA rate cut since 2020, confidence has started to creep back into the market. And while the financial benefits of a 0.25% drop might seem small, the psychological shift is significant.
“It’s not the rate cut—it’s what the rate cut signals,” Aaron explains.
Michael agrees. With each policy move—whether it’s loosening of APRA’s buffers, government incentives, or rate cuts—more Australians feel ready to act. Not because their borrowing power suddenly doubles, but because they’re no longer frozen by fear.
This is how markets turn. Not overnight. Not with a headline. But with a slow, steady return of confidence.
Let’s be clear—Michael doesn’t chase hotspots. He doesn’t gamble on speculative mining towns or chase short-term yield. His strategy is timeless: buy in gentrifying, middle-ring suburbs in major capital cities, where demographic trends support long-term growth.
“Don’t buy in the cheapest areas,” he warns. “Buy in locations where tenants have the capacity to pay more rent over time.”
Affluent renters, dual-income households, and lifestyle-friendly suburbs are where your cash flow and capital growth will align.
As we head toward another federal election, some buyers are pausing their property plans. But Michael sees this as a mistake:
“Businesses don’t wait. Life doesn’t wait. Why should you?”
Unless a party is proposing a significant tax overhaul (like Labor’s capital gains tax shakeup in 2019), there’s little reason to let politics put your future on hold. And the truth is, most election policies are more rhetoric than reality.
Waiting “just to see” often results in missed opportunities—and buyers who sat out the last cycle know this all too well.
The discussion turns to how market momentum really builds. It’s not one thing—it’s the flywheel effect.
And the cycle builds. That’s why, as Aaron points out, the real price surges come not when rates fall, but when lending policy changes allow more buyers to act.
That’s the “horse bolting” moment.
Michael shares a concept that every investor should embrace:
“You need two businesses: one for cash flow, one for capital growth.”
But here’s the kicker: most people ignore the first and obsess over the second.
“The more you earn, the more you can invest. You are your greatest asset,” says Aaron.
Want to build wealth faster? Don’t just pick better properties—build a stronger income. Invest in your career, business, or side hustle so you can buy better assets sooner.
Too many people think buying a property is the strategy. Michael flips this.
“Buying a property is not a plan. It’s just one part of the plan.”
The real wealth-building journey includes:
Aaron notes: couples who don’t align on their financial strategy often get stuck, because one person is pushing while the other is catching up. Your success in property hinges on having clarity together.
This part hits home.
Most investors will insure their car, but not their own income. Michael warns this is short-sighted.
“If you earn $200k a year, that’s $4 million over 20 years. That’s your real asset—protect it.”
At Atelier Wealth, we’ve seen firsthand how important insurance, structures, and strategy are as portfolios grow. Risk isn’t just about the market falling. It’s about job loss, health shocks, or partnership breakdowns derailing your future.
“Your insurance needs to reflect your level of sophistication and debt,” Aaron adds.
This is especially critical as your income grows, your equity increases, and your dependents (kids, business, aging parents) increase too.
Michael doesn’t sugarcoat the stats:
Why? No strategy. No support. No patience.
“Don’t do what most investors do. If you follow the herd, you’ll get herd results.”
The ones who succeed?
Invest in education and mentorship, not just properties.
If there’s one message to walk away with from this episode, it’s this:
“Property is a game of finance—with some houses thrown in the middle.”
The winners aren’t the ones who chase the next shiny suburb or try to time the bottom. They’re the ones who understand the numbers, master the strategy, and keep showing up year after year.
And in a market like 2025—filled with headlines, uncertainty, and noise—that’s never been more important.
Whether you’re just getting started or already have a property portfolio, we’re here to help.
At Atelier Wealth, we help you: ✅ Get crystal clear on your borrowing power
✅ Build a strategy that suits your goals
✅ Select the right property for your life stage
✅ Protect your income and assets with the right structures
📞 Contact us to book a strategy session with our lending experts.
Australia has waited over three years for this moment: the Reserve Bank of Australia has finally cut interest rates.
On the surface, a 0.25% drop may seem modest. But for property owners, investors, and aspiring buyers alike, this small percentage could represent a massive shift in opportunity. For some, it will mean hundreds in monthly savings. For others, tens of thousands in extra borrowing capacity. For everyone? A change in sentiment that might just mark the beginning of the next property upswing.
So what does it all mean—and what should you do about it?
Let’s break it down. Watch the full. episode here.
The Reserve Bank’s February 2025 announcement marks its first interest rate cut since the height of the pandemic. With inflation easing to 3.2%, and household spending clearly curbed, this decision was both expected and urgently needed.
Cost of living and housing affordability are top-of-mind issues for Australians. With a federal election on the horizon, it was widely speculated that the government needed a financial win for households. This rate cut provided it.
And while the move has already stirred excitement among mortgage holders, it has broader implications for both market sentiment and strategy.
This is the question on every mortgage holder’s lips. The good news: real savings are on the table. Here’s how much monthly repayments could drop, based on your loan size:
Sure, it’s not enough to fund a luxury holiday. But in an environment of grocery inflation and budget tightening, it’s meaningful relief—especially for families doing it tough.
Important Tip: Not all banks automatically reduce your repayments. Some will keep your repayments unchanged, simply shortening your loan term. If you need that cash flow, contact your lender or broker ASAP to:
At Atelier Wealth, this is already in motion for our clients.
Confidence is often the true catalyst for property growth.
In the lead-up to this rate cut, our team saw a major uptick in buyer activity. Clients reached out, reactivated strategies, and in many cases moved quickly to buy ahead of the cut.
This reflects a broader truth: Australians are no longer in wait-and-see mode. The moment the RBA hinted at easing, the market stirred. With further cuts forecasted (some major banks are tipping up to four more in 2025), the broader mood is shifting from cautious to confident.
And that confidence? It’s contagious—and competitive.
This 0.25% rate cut isn’t just about saving money—it boosts what lenders will allow you to borrow. Let’s look at the numbers:
The math is simple: every 1% drop in interest rates gives back around half your income in borrowing capacity.
This is game-changing for:
But here’s the kicker: property prices are likely to outpace these borrowing boosts.
In fact, CoreLogic’s recent insights predict some areas could see price increases of up to 19% from a 1% rate cut.
So while your borrowing may rise by $50K or $100K, property prices might jump by even more.
What does this mean in real terms?
If you’re waiting for affordability to improve, you’re running uphill. Waiting won’t help you save fast enough to match rising values. And once investor and FHB demand heat up (as it already is), you’ll be competing in a tighter, faster-moving market.
Beyond interest rates, one of the biggest levers affecting borrowing power is HECS debt.
With mounting public pressure, the government is considering removing HECS from borrowing assessments. If they do? Expect a massive flood of FHBs into the market.
That makes now an ideal window to act before policy changes push demand (and prices) even higher.
Credit cards are another silent killer. Even unused, a $10,000 limit can reduce borrowing capacity by tens of thousands. And interest rates on credit cards don’t fall with the RBA.
Our advice:
With a rate cut, rising sentiment, and potential HECS and super policies in the works, first-home buyers are uniquely positioned to make moves.
But here’s the caveat: you won’t be the only one.
When the government announces schemes or changes like:
…prices surge almost overnight. We saw it with past grants, and we’ll see it again.
So if you’re in a position to buy now—do it before the crowd arrives.
Forget the Sydney-Melbourne headlines. Here’s what the CoreLogic February 2025 Chart Pack shows:
Regional NSW areas like Newcastle, Shoalhaven, the South Coast and Central Coast are seeing strong demand from buyers chasing lifestyle, space, and affordability.
And with more families questioning inner-city livability (think traffic, density, development), expect this trend to continue.
Let’s not forget one of the biggest elephants in the room: supply.
The Federal Government pledged to build 1.2 million new homes by 2030. But we’re not on track. Current projections fall short by at least 200,000 dwellings.
When you:
…you get one outcome: prices rise.
With changing lending conditions, we’re seeing a rise in smart, creative strategies:
We’re also seeing a surge in interest around commercial property in 2025, with many seasoned investors diversifying from residential.
The bottom line? There are options—you just need the right advice.
There are two paths we see clients taking:
In either case, we’re here to help. DM us or book a session to map your next move.
Lastly, we’re launching a brand-new investor network (formerly Property Powerhouse – new name pending!).
This isn’t a passive Facebook group. It’s a place to:
If you’re planning to buy your first or fifth property this year, we want you in.
DM us “community” and we’ll send you the invite.
2025 has kicked off with a bang. The RBA rate cut is the first domino in what could be a major shift in the market.
You can:
Because the market is moving, whether you’re in or not.
If you’re ready to:
Let’s talk.
Book your Atelier Wealth strategy call today. Let’s build a plan that puts you in the driver’s seat for 2025 and beyond.
Running a business and building a property portfolio may look like two separate tracks—but in truth, they share more similarities than most realise. Both require strategic thinking. Both rely on smart use of cash flow. And both reward those who think long-term, not just short-term tax savings.
In this episode of the Australian Property Investment Podcast, host Aaron Christie-David sits down again with Andy Teece, Director of SAAB & Teece & Co., to unpack the intersections between business ownership, property investing, tax structuring, and future-focused planning. Watch the full episode here.
Andy brings decades of accounting experience to the table, having worked in a family firm that spans three generations. He knows what it looks like when business owners and investors get it right—and where they often go wrong.
In this blog, we’ll break down the key insights from the episode, giving you a fresh lens on how to run your portfolio like a business, avoid the biggest tax traps, and create real momentum in your financial life—whether you’re a business owner or a high-performing employee.
Andy opens the episode by sharing a common thread he sees among successful clients: they treat their finances like they would a business.
They review performance, adjust strategy, and make informed decisions rather than reactive ones. Whether it’s buying property, paying down debt, or restructuring loans—there’s planning behind the moves.
“People think of investing as something you do outside of your main job. But if you own even two properties, you’re running a business. You’ve got cash flow, risk, overheads, and performance to track. So why not run it like one?” — Aaron Christie-David
Many investors don’t see it that way—especially business owners who already feel maxed out. But Andy argues that separating your personal wealth from your business priorities is essential if you want both to thrive.
This one hit home for a lot of listeners.
Andy and Aaron discuss how many business owners spend years building their company—pouring in time, money, and mental load—without seeing a comparable wealth return. Meanwhile, someone on a PAYG income can buy a couple of properties, let the market (and compound interest) do the heavy lifting, and build wealth with fewer late nights and lower stress.
“We’ve seen clients work themselves into the ground for years to break even. But if they’d put that energy into a simple, scalable property strategy, they might’ve been better off. It’s a tough thing to admit.” — Andy Teece
The lesson isn’t to abandon your business—it’s to step back and assess whether it’s generating long-term wealth or just keeping you busy. And if it’s not working? Maybe it’s time to pivot or diversify.
There’s no denying Aussies love a good tax deduction. But Andy warns that obsessing over tax minimisation can be counterproductive—especially if it’s at the expense of borrowing power and future growth.
“We treat tax like a national sport. But if minimising tax is costing you cash flow and lowering your reported income, you’re potentially cutting off your ability to borrow and grow.” — Andy Teece
Aaron adds that the same goes for mortgage broking. Chasing the lowest rate or trying to avoid LMI (lender’s mortgage insurance) might seem like wins—but not if it means delaying action, missing growth, or using up cash reserves.
Their advice? Tax strategy should be part of the plan—but not the whole plan. Especially in your 30s and 40s, your focus should be on building—not just preserving.
Think AI is just a tech buzzword? Andy doesn’t.
In one of the most practical segments, he shares how he’s already using ChatGPT to summarise complex tax scenarios, break down correspondence between clients and lawyers, and even sanity-check advice.
“I put the full tax conversation into ChatGPT and asked it to flag key risks, summarise points, and identify any unclear areas. It did a brilliant job. Then I could add my insights on top of that.” — Andy Teece
Aaron adds how investors can use AI tools like Gemini or ChatGPT to:
The message? Don’t be afraid to start small. Use AI to save time, run numbers, and explore scenarios—not to replace human advice, but to enhance it.
Land tax isn’t the most exciting topic, but if you’re building a portfolio—it matters. A lot.
Andy breaks down the differences between land tax thresholds across states, and how ownership structure affects what you pay.
“We love trusts for tax streaming, but they come at a cost—especially in states like NSW where they get hit with land tax from dollar one.” — Andy Teece
Many investors hear blanket advice like “just buy through a trust,” but the reality is far more nuanced. The right entity depends on your location, yield, borrowing strategy, and long-term goals.
💡 Pro tip: A poorly structured purchase could cost you thousands per year in tax—or limit your ability to leverage further. Always speak to both your broker and accountant before signing the contract.
Andy shared one of the most underrated insights in the episode: the power of pre-made decisions.
He recommends that investors and business owners set decision-making rules in advance. For example:
That removes emotional decision-making in high-stress periods—and creates clarity around next steps.
“So many people say, ‘Let’s give it another 6 months,’ and 6 becomes 12… becomes 5 years. Having timelines and review points keeps you honest.” — Andy Teece
Whether it’s your next purchase or business milestone, writing down those decisions ahead of time is a game-changer.
Aaron closes the episode by reflecting on how important it is for couples to align on money, even if one person is more financially inclined.
Whether it’s doing a quarterly finance date at a café, a short getaway to talk strategy, or bringing a partner along to meetings—it matters.
“If you’re 50 podcast episodes in and your partner’s not, give them time to catch up. Don’t just drop them into a Zoom with a broker or buyer’s agent and expect them to feel safe. This is a shared journey.” — Aaron Christie-Davi
There’s no denying that property investing, like business ownership, comes with complexity. But complexity isn’t a reason to pause—it’s a reason to plan.
The most successful clients we work with aren’t the ones who make perfect decisions. They’re the ones who ask good questions, get the right people in their corner, and stay open to evolving the plan as life changes.
And whether it’s navigating land tax, reassessing your trust structure, planning for retirement, or preparing for your next acquisition—the time to act is now.
Whether you’re self-employed, PAYG, or somewhere in between—our team at Atelier Wealth can help you navigate lending with clarity and confidence.
💼 For lending strategy, loan structuring, or borrowing power reviews:
👉 Book a call with Atelier Wealth
📊 For tax planning, trust advice, or business structure reviews:
👉 Contact Andy Teece and the team at SAAB & Teece & Co
You don’t have to do this alone—and you shouldn’t.
