Case Study: Six-fold increase and now ready for retirement

May 5, 2025

A couple's incredible financial journey reveals a six-fold increase in their investment assets, positioning them for a comfortable retirement. Key strategies included diversifying investments, optimizing superannuation, and effective cash flow management. Discover how a new Melbourne property added significant equity while debt reduction played a crucial role. Learn about the importance of timing in seeking financial advice and the risks of co-investing with others. Plus, insights into testamentary trusts and estate planning for future generations.

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ANECDOTE

Ten-Year Wealth Turnaround

A couple who began with ~$500k in investable assets in 2015 grew to about $3.2M by 2025.
They combined debt reduction, property and super strategies plus regular share investments to reach retirement readiness.

ANECDOTE

Melbourne Apartment Purchase

They bought an investment-grade Melbourne apartment for $740k in 2018 that hasn't yet grown in value.
The purchase added significant equity reduction and will be used long-term to underpin super.

ADVICE

Use A Family Trust For Extra Growth

Do build growth assets outside super when you hit contribution caps by investing in a family trust.
Gradually move those assets into super to optimise tax and retirement flexibility.

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In this case study episode, Stuart Wemyss shares the success story of a couple who experienced a six-fold increase in their investment assets, now positioning them for a comfortable retirement. When they first sought advice in 2015, the couple, aged 54 (him) and 51 (her), had a home valued at $900k with no debt, and co-owned three investment properties worth $1.2 million with $760k of debt. Their superannuation was $180k, and their combined income ranged from $300k to $400k annually.

Fast forward to today, their home is now worth $1.6 million, and they have reduced debt on their properties, resulting in $760k of equity. A new investment property purchased in Melbourne in 2018 has added $600k in equity. Their superannuation has grown to $1.2 million, and family trust investments amount to $595k. Their net investment assets now total $3.15 million, a six-fold increase, with $1 million of that coming from debt reduction.

Stuart highlights key strategies that contributed to their success, such as diversifying investments, optimizing super, and consistently investing in shares since 2020. He also discusses the importance of effective cash flow management and reducing unnecessary insurance cover. The couple, now 64 and 61 years old, are ready to retire comfortably.

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