Property Investment, Success & Money | The Michael Yardney Podcast

Today, women live longer than men, but retire with far less money. And despite all the progress we've made, Australia's gender wealth gap remains stubbornly wide. Today I'm joined by Sarah Megginson, money expert and Head of Editorial at Finder, to unpack the insights from their 2025 State of Women’s Wealth Report. We explore why women continue to fall behind financially, what drives the wealth gap beyond pay inequality, and most importantly, what women (and men) can do about it. You might be thinking, "Well, I’m not a woman — why does this affect me?" I think you really should listen to today’s show because financial security isn’t just about individuals. It’s about families. Communities. Generations. When women build wealth, everyone benefits: More kids grow up in financially secure homes. More wealth gets reinvested into our economy. More retirees live independently, not dependent on government handouts. This is all about building a stronger, fairer, wealthier Australia.   Takeaways  ·         Women hold 40% less net wealth than men. ·         The gender pay gap begins in primary school. ·         Women are more likely to work part-time, affecting their superannuation. ·         Education is crucial for financial empowerment. ·         Cultural shifts are changing financial goals for younger generations. ·         The sandwich generation faces unique financial challenges. ·         Women over 50 are at a higher risk of homelessness. ·         Negotiating pay remains a hurdle for women. ·         Small financial steps can lead to significant changes. ·         Parents play a vital role in shaping children's financial attitudes.   Chapters  00:00 Introduction to Women's Wealth Report 04:36 Understanding the Gender Wealth Gap 07:28 The Impact of Career Breaks on Women's Finances 13:04 The Role of Parenting in Financial Education 18:46 The Sandwich Generation: Balancing Care and Career 21:25 Risk of Homelessness for Women Over 50 24:14 Taking Control of Your Financial Future 29:29 Empowering Women to Manage Money   Links and Resources:   Answer this week’s trivia question here- www.PropertyTrivia.com.au ·         Win a hard copy of How to Grow a Multi-Million Dollar Property Portfolio – in your spare time. ·         Everyone wins a copy of a fully updated property report – What’s ahead for property for 2025 and beyond.   Finder’s State of Women’s Wealth Report https://www.finder.com.au/insights/state-of-womens-wealth-report-2025  Sarah Megginson - money expert and Head of Editorial at Finder https://www.finder.com.au/author/sarahmegginson  Get the team at Metropole to help build your personal Strategic Property Plan Click here and have a chat with us Michael Yardney – Subscribe to my Property Update newsletter here    Get a bundle of eBooks and Reports at www.PodcastBonus.com.au

The Australian property market has been anything but predictable in recent years - booms, corrections, interest rate hikes, and a housing supply crisis have kept everyone on their toes. But what lies ahead? In today’s episode I’m joined by Dr Nicola Powell, Chief of Research and Economics at Domain, to unpack their latest Price Forecast Report for the 2025–26 financial year. This isn't just another forecast - we take a deep dive into how affordability, population growth, government incentives, and even the psychology of homebuyers will shape our markets in the year ahead. Whether you’re a seasoned investor, a first-home buyer, or just a curious observer of our housing rollercoaster, you’ll get real insights into where property values are headed, which cities are poised to outperform, and how you can navigate, or capitalise on, what’s coming next.   Takeaways  ·         The property market is experiencing a transition with varying growth rates across regions. ·         Interest rates significantly influence property values, especially in major cities. ·         First home buyers face challenges in accessing the market due to high prices. ·         Population growth remains strong, impacting housing demand. ·         Government policies play a crucial role in shaping market dynamics. ·         Rental markets are currently favoring landlords, but growth rates may slow down. ·         Melbourne is expected to see significant price growth in the coming year. ·         Affordability issues persist, particularly in high-priced markets like Sydney. ·         The cash rate's stability is a key concern for future market performance. ·         Understanding market dynamics is essential for making informed investment decisions.   Chapters  00:00 Market Overview and Price Forecasts 02:38 Melbourne's Market Potential and Price Predictions 13:16 Sydney's Performance and Affordability Challenges 15:54 Brisbane's Growth and Infrastructure Impact 18:47 Perth's Market Slowdown and Future Outlook 21:19 Adelaide and Canberra's Market Trends 24:11 Rental Market Insights and First Home Buyer Support 26:59 Navigating the Unpredictable Australian Property Market   Links and Resources:   Answer this week’s trivia question here- www.PropertyTrivia.com.au ·        Win a hard copy of How to Grow a Multi-Million Dollar Property Portfolio – in your spare time. ·        Everyone wins a copy of a fully updated property report – What’s ahead for property for 2025 and beyond.     Get the team at Metropole to help build your personal Strategic Property Plan Click here and have a chat with us Michael Yardney – Subscribe to my Property Update newsletter here Dr Nicola Powell, Chief of Research and Economics at Domain Domian Property Forecast Report:  https://propertyupdate.com.au/australias-housing-market-fy25-26-a-new-chapter-of-growth-balance-and-challenge/   Get a bundle of eBooks and Reports at www.PodcastBonus.com.au    Also, please subscribe to my other podcast Demographics Decoded with Simon Kuestenmacher – just look for Demographics Decoded wherever you are listening to this podcast and subscribe so each week we can unveil the trends shaping your future.  

We’ve all heard the phrase “rent money is dead money,” right? But is it really? As property prices surge and affordability challenges mount—especially for younger Australians—a growing number of people are turning to an alternative path: rentvesting. That’s where you rent the home you live in and invest in a property elsewhere. Is this just a clever workaround, or is it a genuinely smart wealth-building strategy? In today’s episode I’m joined once again by Stuart Wemyss to explore this in depth. And even if you’re not particularly interested in rentvesting, I’m sure many of the investment principles Stuart and I will be discussing today will be of benefit to everyone interested in property.   Takeaways  ·         Rent-vesting allows flexibility in property investment. ·         Owning a home can provide long-term financial security. ·         Demographic shifts are changing home ownership trends. ·         Tax implications play a significant role in property decisions. ·         Rent-vesting may not suit everyone financially. ·         Understanding personal goals is crucial in property investment. ·         Long-term strategies are essential for financial success. ·         Common mistakes in rent-vesting can derail financial goals. ·         The importance of a holistic financial strategy. ·         Buying a property is a long-term commitment.   Chapters  01:40 Introduction to Rent Vesting and Home Ownership 04:34 Understanding Rent Vesting: Pros and Cons 06:56 Financial Analysis of Rent Vesting vs Home Ownership 09:46 Demographic Shifts and Home Ownership Trends 12:36 Tax Implications: Capital Gains and Negative Gearing 15:17 Long-Term Financial Strategies and Retirement Planning 18:23 Common Mistakes in Rent Vesting 20:52 Final Thoughts: Making Informed Property Decisions   Links and Resources:   Answer this week’s trivia question here- www.PropertyTrivia.com.au ·         Win a hard copy of How to Grow a Multi-Million Dollar Property Portfolio – in your spare time. ·         Everyone wins a copy of a fully updated property report – What’s ahead for property for 2025 and beyond   Michael Yardney   Stuart Wemyss – Prosolution Private Clients Stuart’s Book – Rules of the Lending Game & Investopoly   Get the team at Metropole to help build your personal Strategic Property Plan Click here and have a chat with us Get a bundle of free reports and eBooks – www.PodcastBonus.com.au   Also, please subscribe to my other podcast Demographics Decoded with Simon Kuestenmacher – just look for  Demographics Decoded wherever you are listening to this podcast and subscribe so each week we can unveil the trends shaping your future. 

Did you know that for the first 15 years of your mortgage, you're working mostly for the taxman, not your future wealth? It’s a startling claim, but one backed by data from the Housing Industry Association — and it sheds new light on why housing affordability is getting worse, not better. Today, I’m joined by Tim Reardon, Chief Economist at the HIA, to unpack this extraordinary insight. We explore how government taxes and regulatory charges are silently front-loading the cost of home ownership, inflating house prices, and burdening Aussie families before they’ve even laid a brick. And while there’s some good news on the horizon — with interest rate cuts expected to drive a recovery in home building — the longer-term challenges are immense. Think taxes, planning bottlenecks, and a construction industry on its knees due to chronic underbuilding and workforce shortages. Whether you’re a property investor, homeowner, or policymaker, this conversation will leave you thinking differently about the hidden forces shaping the housing market — and why just building more homes won’t be enough.   Takeaways  ·         The first 15 years of mortgage repayments primarily cover taxes. ·         Approximately 50% of the cost of a new house is attributed to taxes and fees. ·         Government policies significantly impact housing supply and affordability. ·         Subsidizing first home buyers does not address the root causes of housing unaffordability. ·         The 1.2 million homes initiative requires substantial policy changes to succeed. ·         Foreign investment is crucial for increasing housing supply. ·         Build-to-rent projects are not currently providing affordable housing options. ·         Interest rates directly influence the volume of new home building. ·         Labor availability is a significant challenge for the construction industry. ·         Policy reforms are necessary to improve housing supply and affordability.   Chapters  01:12 Understanding Mortgage Repayments and Taxes 04:54 Challenges in Housing Supply and Infrastructure 09:00 Government Schemes and Their Limitations 10:39 The 1.2 Million Homes Initiative 14:41 The Future of Build-to-Rent Projects 17:01 Market Dynamics and Housing Affordability 20:27 Structural Challenges in the Housing Industry 23:18 Conclusion and Future Outlook   Links and Resources: Answer this week’s trivia question here- www.PropertyTrivia.com.au ·         Win a hard copy of How to Grow a Multi-Million Dollar Property Portfolio – in your spare time. ·         Everyone wins a copy of a fully updated property report – What’s ahead for property for 2025 and beyond   Get the team at Metropole to help build your personal Strategic Property Plan Click here and have a chat with us Michael Yardney – Subscribe to my Property Update newsletter here  Tim Reardon HIA Chief Economist  Get a bundle of eBooks and Reports at www.PodcastBonus.com.au   Also, please subscribe to my other podcast Demographics Decoded with Simon Kuestenmacher – just look for Demographics Decoded wherever you are listening to this podcast and subscribe so each week we can unveil the trends shaping your future.

If you’re a property investor, I have an important question for you… When was the last time you thought seriously about your property manager? If you think their main job is collecting the rent and organising tradies when something breaks, I’ve got news for you—things have changed dramatically. In fact, the world of residential property management has been turned on its head in the last five years. New legislation, shifting tenant expectations, work-from-home dynamics, and rapid tech adoption mean that managing your investment property is no longer a simple job you can entrust to just anyone—or worse, do yourself. And if you get this wrong, the consequences can be expensive… and stressful. In today’s show I’m joined by Leanne Jopson, National Director of Property Management at Metropole. Leanne’s been at the coalface of this transformation, and today she’ll reveal how the role of property managers has shifted, what changes are still coming down the pipeline, and what smart investors need to be thinking about to future-proof their portfolios. And while this might sound like an episode just for landlords, I promise you—it’s more than that. Whether you own one property or a dozen, what we discuss today could save you thousands and help you sleep a lot better at night.   Takeaways  ·         The role of property managers has evolved significantly in recent years. ·         Legislative changes have increased compliance requirements for landlords. ·         Tenants are now more informed and have higher expectations. ·         Technology is reshaping property management practices. ·         Outdoor space has become a priority for tenants post-COVID. ·         Landlords are increasingly focused on meeting minimum housing standards. ·         Property management is now viewed as strategic asset management. ·         Future-proofing investments is essential for landlords. ·         Building relationships with tenants is crucial for retention. ·         Understanding market trends is vital for successful property management.   Chapters  02:10 The Changing Landscape of Property Investment 04:54 Legislative Changes Impacting Property Management 07:35 The Role of Technology in Property Management 09:49 Evolving Expectations of Tenants and Landlords 12:30 The Impact of Work-from-Home on Property Demand 19:02 Future Trends in Property Management 22:45 Preparing for the Future of Property Investment   Links and Resources:   Answer this week’s trivia question here- www.PropertyTrivia.com.au ·         Win a hard copy of How to Grow a Multi-Million Dollar Property Portfolio – in your spare time. ·         Everyone wins a copy of a fully updated property report – What’s ahead for property for 2025 and beyond   Leanne Jopson- National Executive -  Property Management at Metropole As Metropole specialises in property management, our vacancy rate is considerably below the market average, our tenants stay an average of 2 years and our properties lease 10 days faster than the market average. Click here to see how we can help you. Get a bundle of free reports and eBooks – www.PodcastBonus.com.au   Also, please subscribe to my other podcast Demographics Decoded with Simon Kuestenmacher – just look for  Demographics Decoded wherever you are listening to this podcast and subscribe so each week we can unveil the trends shaping your future. 

If you’ve ever felt like you’re playing a game of property monopoly in Australia, but someone else got to pass “Go” decades before you and now owns half the board, you’re not imagining it. That “someone else”? It's the Baby Boomers. They’ve won the property game in Australia. Not just because they got in early, but because the rules of the game have increasingly worked in their favour, at the expense of younger generations. Today leading demographer Simon Kuestenmacher and I chat about whether the Baby Boomers really did have it easier or not, as well as how younger generations can catch up and build their own property wealth as well as how younger generations can catch up and build their own property wealth. We also discuss the impact of debt, changing cultural expectations regarding home ownership, and the challenges faced by Generation X.   Takeaways  ·         Baby boomers have a significant advantage in property ownership. ·         Younger generations face higher debt levels than baby boomers. ·         Cultural expectations around home ownership have shifted dramatically. ·         The Bank of Mum and Dad plays a crucial role in helping younger buyers. ·         Rent vesting is becoming a popular strategy for young investors. ·         Generation X is squeezed between supporting their children and aging parents. ·         Policymakers need to consider strategies to make housing more affordable. ·         Long-term strategies and education are key for younger generations. ·         Every generation faces unique challenges based on their historical context. ·         Wealth transfer from baby boomers to younger generations is significant.   Chapters  01:55 Introduction to Generational Wealth Dynamics 02:49 Wealth Distribution and Baby Boomers 06:35 Challenges for Younger Generations 12:31 Cultural Shifts and Housing Expectations 17:01 The Squeeze on Generation X 20:36 Emerging Trends: Rent Vesting 22:18 Policy Recommendations for Future Generations   Links and Resources: Answer this week’s trivia question here- www.PropertyTrivia.com.au ·         Win a hard copy of How to Grow a Multi-Million Dollar Property Portfolio – in your spare time. ·         Everyone wins a copy of a fully updated property report – What’s ahead for property for 2025 and beyond   Michael Yardney  Get the team at Metropole to help build your personal Strategic Property Plan Click here and have a chat with us Simon Kuestenmacher: Australia’s leading demographer and partner in the Demographics Group Get a bundle of free reports and eBooks – www.PodcastBonus.com.au  Also, please subscribe to our other podcast Demographics Decoded with Simon Kuestenmacher – just look for  Demographics Decoded wherever you are listening to this podcast and subscribe so each week we can unveil the trends shaping your future.

Today, I want to talk about something that’s really flying under the radar—but it shouldn’t be. Imagine being taxed on money you haven’t actually earned. Not on rent you’ve received, not on a capital gain you’ve banked, but just on the increase in value of an asset you still hold. Sounds crazy, right? Well, that’s exactly what the federal government’s proposed new tax on superannuation above $3 million aims to do—taxing unrealised capital gains. And while they say it’ll only affect a handful of wealthy Australians today, the truth is—because that $3 million cap isn’t indexed to inflation—it could very well affect many, many more of us tomorrow. Worse still, it sets a precedent. If the government can tax you on unrealised gains in your super, what’s to stop them doing the same outside of super? To your investment property? Your business? Your share portfolio? So today, I’ve chat with Ken Raiss, Director of Metropole Wealth Advisory and Australia’s leading property taxation strategist. We unpack exactly what this policy means, why it matters far more than most people think, and what smart investors should be doing now to prepare. Trust me—this episode isn’t just about super. It’s about the future of taxation in Australia. And whether you’re a seasoned investor or just planning your financial future, you need to understand what’s really going on. Takeaways  ·         The proposed tax on superannuation targets unrealised profits. ·         This tax could affect more Australians than initially stated. ·         Investors need to be aware of the implications of taxing unrealised gains. ·         The new tax policy may create a complex valuation process for assets. ·         Property investors may face increased financial burdens as a result of this tax. ·         Seeking expert financial advice is crucial in navigating these changes. ·         The tax system's integrity is at stake with these new policies. ·         Long-term planning is essential for adapting to tax changes. ·         Investors should consider alternative investment strategies outside of superannuation. ·         The proposed tax could set a precedent for future taxation policies. Chapters  00:00 Introduction to Proposed Tax Changes 04:34 Understanding the Tax on Unrealized Gains 06:59 Implications for Future Generations 09:15 The Complexity of Valuation and Taxation 11:57 Fairness and Exemptions in Taxation 14:26 Investor Confidence and Market Reactions 16:57 Strategies for Wealth Management 19:36 The Role of Professional Advice 22:12 Future Taxation Trends and Concerns Links and Resources: Michael Yardney Get the team at Metropole Wealth Advisory create a Strategic Wealth plan for your needs Click here and have a chat with us  Ken Raiss, Director of Metropole Wealth Advisory  Get a bundle of eBooks and Reports at www.PodcastBonus.com.au  Also, please subscribe to my other podcast, Demographics Decoded with Simon Kuestenmacher – just look for Demographics Decoded wherever you are listening to this podcast and subscribe so each week we can unveil the trends shaping your future. Or click here: https://demographicsdecoded.com.au/

Have you ever wondered if property development could be your next big wealth accelerator? You’ve probably heard the success stories – investors who’ve turned modest sites into multimillion-dollar assets by building just two townhouses.  But what you don’t often hear about are the sleepless nights, the missteps, the cost overruns, the unexpected council headaches, or the “learning experiences” that chew up profit and time. Today, I’m joined by Greg Hankinson – Director of Metropole’s Project Development Division. Greg has almost 3 decades of experience managing hundreds of successful small to medium-scale projects. Just to make things clear… what are we going to be discussing today isn’t about becoming a full-time developer. It’s about how smart investors are adding a powerful strategy to their portfolio – one that’s backed by professionals who’ve done it hundreds of times before. So whether you’re looking to build wealth faster, reduce your reliance on market growth, or just explore what’s possible beyond buying and holding, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.   Takeaways  ·         Property development can be a game changer for wealth creation. ·         Understanding the current market dynamics is crucial for investors. ·         Planning and preliminary research are essential for successful developments. ·         Development finance differs significantly from traditional home financing. ·         Identifying suitable development sites requires thorough due diligence. ·         Designing properties to meet market demand is key to maximizing returns. ·         Having the right team of experts can significantly impact project outcomes. ·         Contingency planning is vital to manage unexpected costs during development. ·         Common mistakes include misunderstanding development finance and costs. ·         Long-term holding of developed properties can lead to greater financial benefits.   Chapters 01:50 Introduction to Property Development 03:10 The Appeal of Townhouse Developments 05:18 Understanding Market Demand and Supply 07:19 Planning and Strategy in Development 11:22 Navigating the Property Cycle 12:46 Criteria for Development Sites 15:52 Budgeting and Cost Management 18:10 Building the Right Team 19:37 Designing for the Market 21:40 Common Mistakes in Property Development   Links and Resources:   Answer this week’s trivia question here- www.PropertyTrivia.com.au ·         Win a hard copy of How to Grow a Multi-Million Dollar Property Portfolio – in your spare time. ·         Everyone wins a copy of a fully updated property report – What’s ahead for property for 2025 and beyond   Join us at the Ultimate Property Development Workshop in Sydney on 19th July Click here for all the details https://realestateworkshop.com.au/  Greg Hankinson -  Director, Metropole Constructions  Interested in getting involved at the “wholesale” end of the property market? We’ll help you become a property developer. Click here and find out how. https://metropole.com.au/develop/   Get the team at Metropole to help build your personal Strategic Property Plan Click here and have a chat with us Michael Yardney – Subscribe to my Property Update newsletter here  Get a bundle of eBooks and Reports at www.PodcastBonus.com.au   Also, please subscribe to my other podcast Demographics Decoded with Simon Kuestenmacher – just look for  Demographics Decoded wherever you are listening to this podcast and subscribe so each week we can unveil the trends shaping your future.

Imagine this… You’ve got a strong property portfolio, you're working hard, and the market is looking good. Then – boom – life throws you a curveball. Maybe it’s a job loss, a health issue, or a tenant stops paying rent for months. What now? Most investors panic. But the savvy ones? They just lean on their financial buffer – a quiet little fund sitting in the background that buys them something more valuable than money: time. In this podcast episode of the Michael Yardney Podcast, Brett Warren and I discuss the critical importance for property investors of having a financial buffer.   We explore how a financial buffer can provide peace of mind, protect against unexpected expenses, and allow investors to navigate financial challenges without panic.   Through real-life examples and case studies, we illustrate the benefits of maintaining a buffer and offer strategies for building one effectively.   Takeaways  ·         A financial buffer is essential for property investors. ·         Buffers provide peace of mind during financial uncertainty. ·         Unexpected expenses can arise, making a buffer crucial. ·         Building a buffer gradually is a smart strategy. ·         Financial planning helps identify the right buffer amount. ·         Real-life examples show the effectiveness of buffers. ·         Buffers can prevent the need to sell assets in tough times. ·         Investors should prioritize creating a buffer before market shocks. ·         Having a buffer allows for better decision-making during crises. ·         It's important to reassess and rebuild buffers regularly. Chapters  00:00 The Importance of a Financial Buffer 04:08 Examples of Financial Buffer Importance 10:32 Practical Strategies for Building a Buffer 18:11 Real-Life Examples of Buffers in Action Links and Resources: Get the team at Metropole to help build your personal Strategic Property Plan Click here and have a chat with us Michael Yardney – Subscribe to my Property Update newsletter here Brett Warren - National Director of Property at Metropole Get a bundle of eBooks and Reports at www.PodcastBonus.com.au Also, please subscribe to my other podcast Demographics Decoded with Simon Kuestenmacher – just look for  Demographics Decoded wherever you are listening to this podcast and subscribe so each week we can unveil the trends shaping your future.

While most of us want to become rich and successful, it’s really not as easy as many suggest on social media. In today’s show Tom Corley and I explain why building wealth is a two-step process and the requirements to not only build wealth, but retain wealth. Takeaways The easiest way to grow wealth in Australia is through residential real estate. Becoming rich involves a two-step process: accumulating wealth and maintaining it. Daily growth habits, such as reading and self-education, are crucial for success. Building rich relationships can significantly impact your journey to wealth. Avoid spontaneous purchases to maintain financial discipline. Isolate a portion of your wealth for retirement planning. Wealth management requires a team of experts, including financial advisors and tax experts. The habits to get rich differ from those needed to stay rich. Mentorship is vital; seek mentors who are two levels above you. Wealth is a journey that requires continuous learning and adaptation. The world doesn't owe you anything; take responsibility. We owe the world our talents and efforts. Chapters 00:00 The Two-Step Process to Wealth 03:59 Habits for Accumulating Wealth 06:43 Daily Growth and Relationship Building 09:41 Persistence, Patience, and Risk-Taking 12:21 Controlling Emotions and Building Teams 15:02 Mentorship and Learning from Others 17:58 Maintaining Wealth and Smart Spending 20:46 Investing Wisely and Planning for Retirement 23:20 The Importance of Expert Guidance 25:54 A New Beginning: Imagining Life Anew 29:59 Embracing the Present: Letting Go of the Past Links and Resources:   Michael Yardney  - Subscribe to my daily Property Update newsletter    Metropole’s Strategic Property Plan – to help both beginning and experienced investors    Subscribe to Tom Corley’s daily blog here.    Order your copy of Rich Habits, Poor Habits here    Join us at Wealth Retreat - Australia’s Premier Wealth Retreat for Elite Investors and Business People www.WealthRetreat.com.au     Get a bundle of free reports and eBooks – www.PodcastBonus.com.au     Also, please subscribe to my other podcast Demographics Decoded with Simon Kuestenmacher – just look for Demographics Decoded wherever you are listening to or watching this podcast and subscribe so each week we can unveil the trends shaping your future.  Shownotes plus more here: What the rich won’t tell you. The truth behind building massive wealth | Tom Corley