Brick to the Future: Property Investment Show OpenCorp

Cam McLellan joins OpenCorp CEO, Matt Lewison to run through the most common questions people ask them around Fears, Avoiding Mistakes & Lessons Learnt.
 In this discussion, Cam and Matt touch on:
 Buying close to homeSelf-managing tenantsBuying at auction - competing to pay more than everybody elseAsking a real estate agent or a buyers advocate for investment adviceOver-capitalising - and how to avoid itSelling to realise profit, or to avoid a 'softer market'Failing to have a 'subject to finance clause’Matt points out, that out of 10.5 million properties - what is the chance that the perfect one is just around the corner from you?
The guys agree that building too big or too expensive for the local market and designing the property as if they are going to move in themselves, is a common mistake, and one to avoid. Smart tip: stick to neutral or white colours.
This episode is perfect for anyone looking at a new investment property - either their first, or to ensure they get their next optimised for performance!

The second part of this series is all about the reasons why it makes financial sense to build a new property, rather than buying established.
Cam introduces a foundational point: If you think about 2 properties, one new and one looking tired, the newer one will rent faster and for more each week.
Cam and Matt discuss the following points:
Repairs and maintenance - buying existing can cost thousands in hidden issues i.e painting over cracks to hide foundation issuesLike new cars, new homes still require maintenance, but there are less risks of hidden major issues.If you are an owner builder, and spend more than $15k on renovations, you can be liable for for any repairs or structural issues for 7 years.  The 'do-er-up-erer' can send you broke if your held liable for all the works.When you buy new, there is much less stamp duty.  It is only payable on the land, which is typically half the cost of buying established.Deprecation schedules are a huge advantage for investors, as they can reduce the payable tax on income.  This all adds up to reduce holding costs.Matt describes how with current market conditions, you can secure land for the cost of a deposit.  You don't have to settle on it until the developer has finished producing it.  Its possible to generate great equity in the meantime.  Some OpenCorp clients are making over $50,000 just while the land settles.
This is a really enlightening episode for aspiring property investors figuring out that important question:  New or established.

Cam McLellan chats with OpenCorp CEO, Matt Lewison, to discuss why some investors buy established rather than build new properties.
In this discussion, Cam and Matt touch on:
Maximising rental yieldWhy new investors invest 90% with their eyesHow smart investors invest 90% with their brainsTaking emotion out of the equationDoing due-diligence into builders reputations and build qualityCam mentions how it's understandable if you can't see something it clouds your mind during the decision making process.  Its comforting being able to hang your hat on what it looks like.
This show gets into the logic behind the different strategies of property investing, with practical tips and insights into how these two highly successful investors have mitigated risks when building new properties.

Cam McLellan chats with his colleague, Matt Lewison, about the number one question people ask: 'How Much Is Enough?'
Cam discusses his method of calculating how much is needed for retirement, working backwards from where someone would be without an investment plan. 
Cam's initial goal of $100k annually in passive income was not achievable using super.
Matt stresses the importance of revisiting and adjusting goals along the way. OpenCorp can provide a goal sheet for those who need some assistance with this step!
They both agree, that its the reason for investing that is really the important things: 
HolidaysDeposits for kids own housesFreedom from 'bad debt'Turning assets into an incomeMatt mentions the problem of expenses increasing to match the upswing of income.
There are three phases to the investment journey:
Acquisitions phase - Buying as many properties as you can hold while you are able to have strong earningsHolding phase - let the assets increase in value but do not let the debt go up. Clear your principle place of residence debt as possibleEnd phase - use your portfolio to provide incomeThe pair finish by discussing the upcoming OpenCorp client portal and the data clarity it will provide to clients.
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Cam McLellan and Matthew Lewison are directors of OpenCorp, Australia's leading property investment specialists.

In this episode, Cam and Matt provide the clarity in the second of a two-part 'mini-series' discussing 'What is Sustainable Financial Independence'.
Steps to achieve SFIGoals & PlansKeeping on trackMeasure your successWhat are the differences between assets and liabilities, and the power of decision making using the beneficial/not beneficial liabilities comparison.

And lastly, they discuss making smart choices - ensuring you have diverse investments to capture market growth.

OpenCorp's Cam McLellan and Matt Lewison discuss the concept of sustainable financial independence in this two part podcast:
Why it looks differerent for different peopleWhy its impossible to save your way to financial securityThe three legs of the stool - income, spending & investmentsWorking hard to get initial savings to start an investment portfolioCam and Matt break down the importance of clarity when it comes to investing, including understanding your aspirations, setting realistic goals, and creating an action plan.

And lastly, they discuss what's involved in achieving financial independence - creating passive income that covers all expenses, and growing your savings.

Don't miss out on this podcast, and part 2 releasing soon!