Episode Details

History shows us that our property markets move through a cycle.

There's a downturn, followed by a stabilisation phase, then an upturn, then a boom. And then the cycle starts all over again.

Now that we're in a downturn phase of the property cycle, I want to share some valuable lessons that I've learned from past property cycles.

I'll be explaining what you can do when you find that the property markets have gone a little crazy.

I'll also talk about how you can make or lose a fortune in 2019. And I'll share a mindset moment all about acting in spite of feeling afraid.

Are you set to gain or lose a fortune in property in 2019?

What goes up, as they say, must come down.

And segments of Australia's property market are now in the slump phase of their cycle, catching out some naïve investors who hoped the value of their properties would rise forever.

This means you will probably lose money in this property downturn

Now hear me out. I'm not one of those doomsayers saying our property markets will collapse.

I firmly believe the outlook for Australia's property market remains robust and when prices rebound, the value of well-located investment grade properties will reach new peaks.

That's because Australia's real estate markets are supported by two solid fundamentals:

1. Our strong population growth, which ensures consistent high housing demand.
2. The wealth of our nation, which means the majority of Australians can afford a property.

But between now and the next upturn there's going to be a painful learning curve for some property investors. Those who got carried away during the boom, often because of a fear of missing out, and took on maximum debt not understanding how the cycle works.

Of course, you could be the exception.

In every property downturn, some strategic investors do well.

I kept investing during the property slump of the early 1980s because I didn't know better. At the time there was limited information available and property statistics were only delivered annually – long after the fact.

However, in the downturn of the early '90s, during the GFC in 2008-10 and in the slump of 2011-12 my portfolio performed well because I followed a few simple rules that helped me come out on top no matter what the market is doing.

So, here's my advice to you:

1. Become financially fluent

Learn everything you can about how money, finance and property work and start investing early. While a trusted mentor and team will help immensely, you still need a solid understanding of how things work to make sound decisions, otherwise, you'll be easy prey for the many spruikers.

2. Adhere to a proven investment strategy

Follow a time-tested proven system and don't speculate. The problem is many investors find my strategy is too simple and boring. They're looking for something more complicated.

Your property investing should be boring so the rest of your life can be exciting.

3. Only buy investment grade properties

I think that less than 5% of the properties on the market at present are what I call "investment grade" and will deliver stable wealth producing rates of returns.

Sure, there is plenty of investment stock out there, but don't confuse the two. These are built specifically for the investor market and sold by property marketers to naïve investors. They lack scarcity and appeal to homeowners and are sold at a premium with no opportunity to add value.

On the other hand, investment-grade properties are in the right location, appeal to a wide range of affluent owner-occupiers, have street appeal and a favourable aspect.

4. Invest for the long term

Real estate is a long-term investm