A fast-moving Q&A covering the questions most first-time property investors are thinking, but not always asking out loud.This panel discussion tackles common decision points around budgeting, strategy, yield vs growth, market trends, depreciation basics, and the practical steps to take before applying for your first investment loan.Key takeaways:Why planning and budgeting come before property selectionHow to think about yield vs growth based on where you are in the journeyStaying informed without getting swept up in hypeWhy pre-approval and borrowing clarity matter earlyThe value of building a support team around youDepreciation as a factor to consider, especially for newer homesGuests: Panel featuring seminar speakers and Future Finance Group team.

If you’re a first-time property investor, your next best move might be getting clarity on the bigger plan first.Ricky Jewell explains how property fits into long-term wealth strategy, why structure and tax matter over time, and how risk planning protects the progress you’re trying to make.Key takeaways:Setting goals that guide every investment decisionWhy structure and tax shape long-term outcomesSuperannuation considerations as a wealth vehicleThe importance of tailored advice over “mate’s rates” decisionsRisk planning: key insurance types and why they matterReviewing strategy as life changesGuest: Ricky Jewell - Partner and Specialist Financial Planner, Index Wealth.

First-time investors often ask “where should I buy?” - but the better question is “what’s my strategy?”Patricia Zurrer explains how to define goals, use Australia-wide research, and understand property cycles so you’re not buying at the wrong time based on headlines.Key takeaways:Why strategy should lead the buying processHow to think about cycles, timing, and growth driversWhy infrastructure only matters if timelines stack upBalancing low risk, low vacancy, and long-term outcomesThe role of research and support teamsCase studies and what they reveal about compounding resultsGuest: Patricia Zurrer - Owner and Managing Director, Property Consulting Australia.

Depreciation is one of the most misunderstood parts of property investing - and one of the most useful for cash flow.Daniel Ward explains what depreciation is, how schedules work, and the key differences between new and older properties when it comes to deductions.Key takeaways:Depreciation basics and why it mattersWhat quantity surveyors do and why compliance mattersCapital works vs plant and equipment (and what changes with second-hand)How depreciation can reduce the cost of holding a propertyRenovations and scrapping considerationsWhen it’s “too late” - and what can still be claimedGuest: Daniel Ward - BMT Tax Depreciation.

Finding the right property is only half the job - the buying process and rental reality matter too.Ash Marton shares how first-time investors can get closer to real opportunities and negotiate with more confidence. Kevin Ljungberg follows with a practical leasing view: what renters want, what to budget for, and how compliance affects costs.Key takeaways:How to stay “across the deal” before it becomes obvious valueNegotiation questions that protect your positionFeatures that widen your tenant pool (and lift rent potential)Budgeting for vacancy and setup costsWhy compliance checks can protect you long termThe practical mindset shift from buyer to landlordGuest: Ash Marton - Principal and Director, Ash Marton Realty.Guest: Kevin Ljungberg - Business Development Manager, Leasing.

Structure is one of the biggest early decisions a first-time property investor makes.Adam Pasquill unpacks the basics of negative gearing, CGT, and the high-level differences between common ownership structures, plus the considerations that should guide the decision.Key takeaways:What negative gearing means and how deductions workHow CGT treatment differs from regular incomeHow goals (growth vs income) influence structureIndividual vs trust vs SMSF - core pros and trade-offsWhy costs, flexibility, and state factors matterWhy early advice can prevent painful unwind laterGuest: Adam Pasquill - Associate Partner, Highview Accounting.

Borrowing power is the real starting line for first-time property investors.Amie Tennant shares the lending foundations that help investors move from “someday” to a real plan - including what lenders look at, how to prepare early, and why pre-approval can change your buying position.Key takeaways:How brokers compare lenders and guide you through approval to settlementDeposit, costs, and building a bufferUsing equity (where relevant) to support an investment purchaseCleaning up consumer credit before applyingWhy pre-approval matters and why timing mattersWhy personalised strategy beats generic online adviceGuest: Amie Tennant - Director and Senior Mortgage Broker, Future Finance Group.

If you’ve wondered whether to fix, stay variable, or run a split - this one’s for you. We break down the real drivers of your interest rate, from LVR tiers and credit score to product choice and lender appetite. You’ll hear when a basic loan beats a package, how offsets shave years off your term, and why keeping repayments steady after a rate cut can save a fortune. Clear, practical, and built for Australian borrowers who want confidence at every step.

If you are self-employed and thinking about buying, refinancing or investing, this one is for you. Amy Tennant sits down with Mandy and Sarah to break down exactly what lenders want to see from business owners. They cover full doc and low doc options, when one year of financials can work, how BAS and business bank statements are used, and why net profit - not just turnover - is what banks care about. You will also hear practical tips on ABN and GST settings, keeping a clean banking setup, planning with your accountant, and the timing traps that can cost you borrowing power.

The First Home Buyer Scheme just changed — and it could make buying your first home in Australia easier than ever.In this episode, Sarah, Mandy, and Molly from Future Finance Group explain what’s new: income caps removed, higher price limits, eligibility expanded to permanent residents and NZ citizens, and how rent ledgers can now help prove genuine savings.We also share the key documents you’ll need, plus honest advice on the real costs and considerations before buying your first home.Property Price Caps: https://firsthomebuyers.gov.au/australian-government-5-percent-deposit-scheme/property-price-caps