Investopoly

Read full blog here.In this episode, Stuart Wemyss distils insights from over a decade and 150+ blogs into four golden, evidence-based rules for successful property investing. He begins with the foundational principle: prioritise capital growth over income when buying, focusing on high-quality, investment-grade assets in tightly held, established suburbs. Income, he explains, can be improved later, but land location is forever.Rule two highlights the importance of understanding property cycles, and timing your purchases to coincide with upcoming growth phases can dramatically fast-track wealth building. Drawing on real client case studies from Brisbane, Stuart illustrates how identifying the right cycle makes a significant difference.Next, he breaks down the math behind wealth accumulation, leveraging full borrowings, negative gearing, and compounding capital growth to create outsized long-term returns. He contrasts property with shares to explain why property is often the better vehicle for gearing.Finally, Stuart stresses future buyer capacity; understanding who will be able to afford your property in 10, 20, or 30 years is key to selecting high-performance assets. He unpacks the roles of credit policy, urban sprawl, and wealth inequality in fuelling long-term growth.This episode is a must-listen for anyone serious about building long-term wealth through strategic property investing.Do you have a question? Email: questions@investopoly.com.au or for a faster response, post a comment on the episode's video over on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@investopolypodcast/podcasts If you're interested in working with my team and me, discover how we can work together here: https://prosolution.com.au/prospective-client/If this episode resonated with you, please leave a rating on your favourite podcast platform. Subscribe to my weekly blog: https://www.prosolution.com.au/stay-connected/ Buy a one of Stuart's books for ONLY $20 including delivery. Use the discount code blog: https://prosolution.com.au/books/DOWNLOAD our 97-point financial health checklist here: https://prosolution.com.au/download-checklist/IMPORTANT: This podcast provides general information about finance, taxes, and credit. This means that the content does not consider your specific objectives, financial situation, or needs. It is crucial for you to assess whether the information is suitable for your circumstances before taking any actions based on it. If you find yourself uncertain about the relevance or your specific needs, it is advisable to seek advice from a licensed and trustworthy professional.

In this Q&A episode, Stuart tackles one of the most pressing challenges facing many Australians today: how to make smart financial moves when most of your wealth is tied up in property. He explores the tension between long-term investment strategy and short-term lifestyle pressure, helping listeners find a better balance between financial progress and personal well-being. From assessing whether a self-managed super fund (SMSF) is a wise move to managing multiple investment properties with tight cash flow, Stuart offers clear, strategic thinking on how to future-proof your finances while reducing financial stress.He also delves into key questions like whether to upgrade your home or invest further, how to think about property versus shares in a changing market, and the value of liquidity and flexibility as you approach retirement. Throughout, Stuart keeps the focus practical and empathetic, guiding listeners through complex decisions with clarity and a long-term lens.If you’re trying to decide what to do with your next investment dollar, wondering whether to hold or sell, or simply aiming for more freedom without sacrificing your financial future, this episode is packed with insights to help you move forward with confidence.Do you have a question? Email: questions@investopoly.com.au or for a faster response, post a comment on the episode's video over on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@investopolypodcast/podcasts If you're interested in working with my team and me, discover how we can work together here: https://prosolution.com.au/prospective-client/If this episode resonated with you, please leave a rating on your favourite podcast platform. Subscribe to my weekly blog: https://www.prosolution.com.au/stay-connected/ Buy a one of Stuart's books for ONLY $20 including delivery. Use the discount code blog: https://prosolution.com.au/books/DOWNLOAD our 97-point financial health checklist here: https://prosolution.com.au/download-checklist/IMPORTANT: This podcast provides general information about finance, taxes, and credit. This means that the content does not consider your specific objectives, financial situation, or needs. It is crucial for you to assess whether the information is suitable for your circumstances before taking any actions based on it. If you find yourself uncertain about the relevance or your specific needs, it is advisable to seek advice from a licensed and trustworthy professional.

Read full blog here.In this episode, Stuart breaks from tradition to deliver an exclusive review of Vanguard Super, Vanguard’s bold foray into the Australian superannuation market. Known for his commitment to independence and strategy-first insights, Stuart explores why Vanguard’s entry could be a game-changer for Australians dissatisfied with the opaque and politically entangled operations of traditional industry super funds. He delves into Vanguard’s unique not-for-profit structure, ultra-low fees, tech-forward administration through Grow Inc., and its world-class investment expertise. While Vanguard Super is still small, its rapid growth and financial sustainability signal promising potential. Stuart also offers a deep dive into Vanguard’s investment options, explains why he recommends the High Growth option for long-term investors and compares fees with heavyweights like AustralianSuper and UniSuper, revealing a clear cost advantage. He even tackles often-overlooked areas like insurance quality and tax implications of pooled vs. non-pooled products. If you're exploring superannuation alternatives or want expert insight into how Vanguard stacks up, this episode is packed with analysis you won’t want to miss.Do you have a question? Email: questions@investopoly.com.au or for a faster response, post a comment on the episode's video over on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@investopolypodcast/podcasts If you're interested in working with my team and me, discover how we can work together here: https://prosolution.com.au/prospective-client/If this episode resonated with you, please leave a rating on your favourite podcast platform. Subscribe to my weekly blog: https://www.prosolution.com.au/stay-connected/ Buy a one of Stuart's books for ONLY $20 including delivery. Use the discount code blog: https://prosolution.com.au/books/DOWNLOAD our 97-point financial health checklist here: https://prosolution.com.au/download-checklist/IMPORTANT: This podcast provides general information about finance, taxes, and credit. This means that the content does not consider your specific objectives, financial situation, or needs. It is crucial for you to assess whether the information is suitable for your circumstances before taking any actions based on it. If you find yourself uncertain about the relevance or your specific needs, it is advisable to seek advice from a licensed and trustworthy professional.

In this Q&A episode, Stuart dives into real-life financial dilemmas from listeners navigating pivotal moments in their wealth journeys. Daniel, a self-employed father of three, outlines his comprehensive plan to retire at 60 with $100k passive income, using property, super, and ETFs. Stuart unpacks the nuances of risk mitigation when income is uncertain and weighs in on a Geelong investment property. An anonymous listener from Perth wants to buy their “forever home” in 7–10 years and seeks advice on how to balance their growing family with smart asset leverage. K, facing a windfall of inheritance, asks about the best long-term ETF strategy in a volatile market, and Stuart offers perspective on diversification and timing. Finally, Blair and Robyn wrestle with whether to sell and upgrade their Sunshine Coast home before moving to New Zealand, trying to predict growth and manage cash flow with future repatriation plans. Stuart brings thoughtful insights to each case, blending strategy, realism, and empathy—perfect for anyone planning for property, retirement, or investment in uncertain times. Tune in for practical takeaways and sharp commentary!Do you have a question? Email: questions@investopoly.com.au or for a faster response, post a comment on the episode's video over on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@investopolypodcast/podcasts If you're interested in working with my team and me, discover how we can work together here: https://prosolution.com.au/prospective-client/If this episode resonated with you, please leave a rating on your favourite podcast platform. Subscribe to my weekly blog: https://www.prosolution.com.au/stay-connected/ Buy a one of Stuart's books for ONLY $20 including delivery. Use the discount code blog: https://prosolution.com.au/books/DOWNLOAD our 97-point financial health checklist here: https://prosolution.com.au/download-checklist/IMPORTANT: This podcast provides general information about finance, taxes, and credit. This means that the content does not consider your specific objectives, financial situation, or needs. It is crucial for you to assess whether the information is suitable for your circumstances before taking any actions based on it. If you find yourself uncertain about the relevance or your specific needs, it is advisable to seek advice from a licensed and trustworthy professional.

Read full blog here.In this episode, Campbell Wallace explores one of the most crucial steps in any property journey: setting the right budget.He breaks the process into two key questions, how much you can borrow vs. how much you should borrow, and explains why borrowing capacity alone shouldn't drive your decision.Campbell outlines:How to calculate a sustainable borrowing limit based on your surplus investable cash flowWhen it might make sense to borrow to your full capacity, especially for younger investors with a long time horizonWhy property quality should trump quantity, and how to avoid false economies with your home purchaseThe risks of under borrowing or compromising too much on asset qualityHow other factors like super contributions, diversification, and age should influence your investment approachHe also warns against letting location dictate your budget and shares the golden rule: budget first, property second. Plus, a reminder not to ask your barber if you need a haircut—always be mindful of biased advice.If you're thinking about your next property purchase, this episode will help you set a smart, strategy-aligned budget that supports your long-term wealth goals.Do you have a question? Email: questions@investopoly.com.au or for a faster response, post a comment on the episode's video over on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@investopolypodcast/podcasts If you're interested in working with my team and me, discover how we can work together here: https://prosolution.com.au/prospective-client/If this episode resonated with you, please leave a rating on your favourite podcast platform. Subscribe to my weekly blog: https://www.prosolution.com.au/stay-connected/ Buy a one of Stuart's books for ONLY $20 including delivery. Use the discount code blog: https://prosolution.com.au/books/DOWNLOAD our 97-point financial health checklist here: https://prosolution.com.au/download-checklist/IMPORTANT: This podcast provides general information about finance, taxes, and credit. This means that the content does not consider your specific objectives, financial situation, or needs. It is crucial for you to assess whether the information is suitable for your circumstances before taking any actions based on it. If you find yourself uncertain about the relevance or your specific needs, it is advisable to seek advice from a licensed and trustworthy professional.

In this Q&A episode, Stuart addresses a wide range of listener questions, from technical ETF tax adjustments to retirement planning strategies using superannuation.He starts by explaining how ETF investors need to account for AMIT cost base adjustments when calculating capital gains tax—an often overlooked detail that could mean paying more tax than necessary. He breaks down what AMIT is and why it matters for investors who regularly receive ETF tax statements.Next, Stuart gives thoughtful advice on helping children into the property market, tackling the challenges of managing differing time horizons and property goals across siblings. He outlines a balanced approach to structuring property purchases with long-term capital growth in mind.He also responds to a listener planning to move to Brisbane and build a home while selling underperforming investment properties. Stuart discusses how to balance serviceability, construction timing, and preserving cash against inflation.Finally, he covers asset allocation in retirement, addressing whether it’s risky to have all super invested in a lifecycle fund when to consider diversifying into property and whether cash buffers are needed for market downturns.This is a helpful episode for anyone navigating wealth building, tax strategy, or long-term planning.Do you have a question? Email: questions@investopoly.com.au or for a faster response, post a comment on the episode's video over on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@investopolypodcast/podcasts If you're interested in working with my team and me, discover how we can work together here: https://prosolution.com.au/prospective-client/If this episode resonated with you, please leave a rating on your favourite podcast platform. Subscribe to my weekly blog: https://www.prosolution.com.au/stay-connected/ Buy a one of Stuart's books for ONLY $20 including delivery. Use the discount code blog: https://prosolution.com.au/books/DOWNLOAD our 97-point financial health checklist here: https://prosolution.com.au/download-checklist/IMPORTANT: This podcast provides general information about finance, taxes, and credit. This means that the content does not consider your specific objectives, financial situation, or needs. It is crucial for you to assess whether the information is suitable for your circumstances before taking any actions based on it. If you find yourself uncertain about the relevance or your specific needs, it is advisable to seek advice from a licensed and trustworthy professional.

New Report: The Evidence-Based Approach to Investing in Property & Shares: download here.Read full blog here.In this episode, Stuart tackles a tricky but important question: how bad does a property need to be to justify selling it?If you suspect a property in your portfolio isn't investment-grade, Stuart walks through a step-by-step process to assess whether replacing it could make you significantly better off—after factoring in selling costs, stamp duty, buyer’s agent fees, and capital gains tax.He explains how to:Estimate your current property’s future returnSet a realistic benchmark for what investment-grade property should deliver (2% yield + 7% capital growth)Weigh opportunity cost and transactional expensesUse detailed scenario modelling to compare long-term wealth outcomesHe also highlights key questions to consider before making a decision:Can you afford to upgrade to a superior asset?Will underperformance materially impact your retirement plans?Do you have enough time before retirement to justify the switch?Could you hedge by buying a better asset now and selling the underperformer later?This episode is packed with real numbers, smart frameworks, and cautionary insights. If you're unsure whether to hold or sell a lagging property, this is essential listening.Do you have a question? Email: questions@investopoly.com.au or for a faster response, post a comment on the episode's video over on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@investopolypodcast/podcasts If you're interested in working with my team and me, discover how we can work together here: https://prosolution.com.au/prospective-client/If this episode resonated with you, please leave a rating on your favourite podcast platform. Subscribe to my weekly blog: https://www.prosolution.com.au/stay-connected/ Buy a one of Stuart's books for ONLY $20 including delivery. Use the discount code blog: https://prosolution.com.au/books/DOWNLOAD our 97-point financial health checklist here: https://prosolution.com.au/download-checklist/IMPORTANT: This podcast provides general information about finance, taxes, and credit. This means that the content does not consider your specific objectives, financial situation, or needs. It is crucial for you to assess whether the information is suitable for your circumstances before taking any actions based on it. If you find yourself uncertain about the relevance or your specific needs, it is advisable to seek advice from a licensed and trustworthy professional.

Stuart dives into the wealth gap in Australia, emphasizing the importance of broad financial strategies. He clarifies the nuances of investing in US-domiciled ETFs, tackling the tax implications and risks involved. The discussion shifts to investment loans, weighing the pros and cons of interest-only versus principal and interest repayments. Finally, he provides insights on family financial planning, evaluating whether to stretch a home budget or focus on ETFs and super, while considering future expenses like education and inheritance.

Register for live event on 28 May at 7pmNew Report: The Evidence-Based Approach to Investing in Property & Shares: download here.Read full blog here.In this episode, Stuart tackles one of the most important financial planning questions: how much is enough? He shares his personal philosophy—invest just enough to meet your goals comfortably, but no more—and reminds listeners that wealth is a means to enjoy life, not just a number to chase.Stuart explains how to think about wealth targets, offering a clear framework for calculating how much you need to fund different retirement lifestyles. He covers:How to plan around supercaps and tax-free thresholdsWhat to do with property in retirementWhy you should consider reducing property exposure and using super for tax efficiencyWhen to invest more, and when to start spendingHe also addresses the mental challenge of switching from saver to spender, and why starting early—even with small amounts—makes a big difference.Whether you’re in your 30s, 50s, or already retired, this episode offers a grounded, practical, and values-based approach to wealth building. Tune in to rethink your goals, reset your expectations, and align your money with your life.Do you have a question? Email: questions@investopoly.com.au or for a faster response, post a comment on the episode's video over on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@investopolypodcast/podcasts If you're interested in working with my team and me, discover how we can work together here: https://prosolution.com.au/prospective-client/If this episode resonated with you, please leave a rating on your favourite podcast platform. Subscribe to my weekly blog: https://www.prosolution.com.au/stay-connected/ Buy a one of Stuart's books for ONLY $20 including delivery. Use the discount code blog: https://prosolution.com.au/books/DOWNLOAD our 97-point financial health checklist here: https://prosolution.com.au/download-checklist/IMPORTANT: This podcast provides general information about finance, taxes, and credit. This means that the content does not consider your specific objectives, financial situation, or needs. It is crucial for you to assess whether the information is suitable for your circumstances before taking any actions based on it. If you find yourself uncertain about the relevance or your specific needs, it is advisable to seek advice from a licensed and trustworthy professional.

Register for live event on 28 May at 7pmIn this Q&A episode, Stuart dives into questions around co-investing in property with family, selling to adult children, managing tax exposure, and adjusting share portfolios amid market volatility.He begins by exploring the complexities of joint property ownership among siblings, highlighting the importance of equal ownership, clear legal structures, and protective clauses to manage risk, especially around relationship breakdowns or financial stress. He also covers how to structure a family property when parents will live in it, including handling rental income and tax compliance.Next, Stuart responds to a parent considering selling 50% of an investment property to their daughter and her partner. He explains the capital gains tax and structuring implications, and whether the strategy is a sound path toward intergenerational wealth transfer.The episode also features guidance on portfolio rebalancing in volatile markets, including whether to reduce concentrated holdings or invest in emerging market ETFs—plus a few fund suggestions for those looking at Asia.Lastly, Stuart clarifies the six-year CGT exemption rule and answers a property strategy question for a couple struggling to balance rentvesting, affordability, and long-term home ownership.Do you have a question? Email: questions@investopoly.com.au or for a faster response, post a comment on the episode's video over on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@investopolypodcast/podcasts If you're interested in working with my team and me, discover how we can work together here: https://prosolution.com.au/prospective-client/If this episode resonated with you, please leave a rating on your favourite podcast platform. Subscribe to my weekly blog: https://www.prosolution.com.au/stay-connected/ Buy a one of Stuart's books for ONLY $20 including delivery. Use the discount code blog: https://prosolution.com.au/books/DOWNLOAD our 97-point financial health checklist here: https://prosolution.com.au/download-checklist/IMPORTANT: This podcast provides general information about finance, taxes, and credit. This means that the content does not consider your specific objectives, financial situation, or needs. It is crucial for you to assess whether the information is suitable for your circumstances before taking any actions based on it. If you find yourself uncertain about the relevance or your specific needs, it is advisable to seek advice from a licensed and trustworthy professional.