Tom's journey from NAB debt collections at 19 to founding ALBA reveals the future of property investment advisory. With 16 years across major banks, he's seen how inefficiency costs investors thousands.

Alba solves the broker problem by applying Royal Commission-level standards to buyer's agent selection, matching investors with vetted experts in under 24 hours. Tom explains why 75% of Australians trust their mortgage broker for property advice, yet brokers can't vet the hundreds of buyer's agent pitches flooding their inbox.

From the Channel Nine primetime moment that brought 50 people's worth of leads with only three staff, to why buyer's agent fees keep rising while broker commissions drop, Tom shares startup realities. He reveals the $54,000 opportunity cost of waiting in today's market and why technology will amplify but never replace human investment conversations.

With buyer's agents growing from 7% to potentially 80% market penetration, understanding how to access quality advice without the legwork has never been more critical.

(0:00) Growing up in Melbourne's northwest

(10:00) From banking to buyer's advocacy: the Alba vision

(32:00) Why broker commissions drop while buyer's agent fees rise

(48:00) The Channel Nine refinance war story that created chaos

 

About Tom:

Thomas Mifsud has built his career at the intersection of property, finance, and innovation with a mission to make the property buying process smarter, faster, and more transparent for Australians. 

With over 16 years of experience across major banks and private lending including leadership roles at NAB, Bendigo Bank, ANZ’s 1835i, and Wingate - he’s seen firsthand how both investors and professionals can get caught in inefficiencies, misinformation, and missed opportunities. 

As the Founder of ALBA - Australian Leading Buyers Agents, Tom is pioneering a new model: a national aggregation of trusted, ethical, and vetted buyer’s agents that connect investors to the right expert in less than 24 hours. His focus is simple: protect leverage, build long-term wealth, and raise the bar across the buyer’s agent industry.

Connect with Tom

Visit the website: ALBA Australian Leading Buyers Agents

Follow Tom on LinkedIn: 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomasmifsud/

Follow ALBA on Instagram: 

https://www.instagram.com/albaprop_/

Follow ALBA on Facebook: 

https://www.facebook.com/share/1BMGwsBPdw/

About Julian:

Julian Khursigara is the CEO of Search Party Property, a Sydney-based buyers agency helping busy professionals build sustainable investment portfolios with clarity and confidence. With over two decades in customer experience and loyalty across the Asia-Pacific region, Julian brings a sharp, data-driven lens to property investing. What began as a personal passion quickly became a mission—to close the knowledge gap and empower everyday Australians to invest smarter. In recognition of this impact, Search Party Property was named a Finalist for Buyers Agency of the Year, and Julian a Finalist for Buyers Agent of the Year at the 2025 REB Awards.

As host of Invest Smarter Grow Faster, Julian draws on his own investing journey and years of strategic insights to demystify property for time-poor professionals. His philosophy is simple: life’s no dress rehearsal, and smart property decisions today create the freedom to choose tomorrow. Through the show, he shares real-world lessons, expert conversations, and proven strategies to help listeners take control of their financial future—one property at a time.

Connect with Julian:

Visit the website: https://searchpartyproperty.com.au/

Follow Julian on LinkedIn: 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/buyersagent-sydney-brisbane-melbourne-adelaide-perth/

Follow Julian on Instagram: 

https://www.instagram.com/juliankhursigara_buyersagent/

Follow Julian on Facebook: 

https://www.facebook.com/investmentpropertybuyersagent/

Follow Julian on Tiktok: 

https://www.tiktok.com/@julian_buyersagent

Subscribe to Julian Khursigara YouTube Channel: 

https://www.youtube.com/@juliankhursigara_buyersagent

If you’d like a personalised review of your financial situation, help setting clear investment goals, and a data-driven strategy to guide your property journey—including insights into high-growth areas and a roadmap to financial freedom—book a time with Julian here: https://calendly.com/julian_spp/45min

Disclaimer

Invest Smarter Grow Faster provides general information and commentary about property, finance, and investing. It does not constitute financial, legal, tax, or investment advice tailored to your personal circumstances. Before making any financial decisions, you should seek professional advice from a qualified adviser.

While we aim for accuracy and quality, we cannot guarantee all information is complete, up-to-date, or free from errors. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results.

Axel's journey from Paris housing commission to owning a multi-million dollar Australian property portfolio is proof that background doesn't determine destiny. Arriving in 2014 with no English and $5,000, he started a landscaping business with borrowed equipment and built it into Sydney's premier garden service with Australia's first subscription model.

But this isn't just a business success story. In five years, Axel went from pushing a mower to owning three Australian investment properties plus a Spanish apartment for his mum - all while working 80-hour weeks in the garden industry, where cash is king and property investing seems impossible.

In this conversation, Axel reveals why he rejected cash jobs to show bank-worthy numbers, how he used 10% deposits and LMI strategically when everyone said don't, and why he bought properties he's never inspected while flying to Spain to sign papers in person. From listening to audiobooks while mowing lawns to understanding equity release and compounding growth, his self-education transformed a tradesman's income into a portfolio heading toward $100 million.

Axel shares the brutal mortgage broker rejection after year one, the tax mistake that delayed his second purchase, and why cutting expenses and eating hot dogs on footpaths was his secret to rapid portfolio growth. His goal isn't just wealth - it's giving back to young people trapped in environments like the one he escaped.

(11:00) Arriving in Australia with no English and three "whats"

(21:00) The crushing mortgage broker rejection after year one

(29:00) The 10% deposit LMI strategy most investors avoid

(33:00) First property: $520k to $900k in three years

(47:00) Hot dogs on footpaths: the real cost of wealth building

About Axel:

Axel Verite is an entrepreneur and innovator with a remarkable journey. He is the founder of Gardenlust, Sydney’s number one landscape company specialising in horticulture. In 2019, he not only launched and scaled the business quickly but also pioneered the industry’s first subscription model, securing over $1 million in subscribed customers in less than a year. 

Beyond business, Axel is also a multi-property investor across Europe. His story of building a thriving company while growing a property portfolio is a powerful example of how vision, determination, and smart investing can create long-term wealth. What makes Axel’s journey so inspiring is that he’s achieved success across very different industries, showing that the principles of discipline and innovation apply everywhere. 

Today, we’ll unpack not just his business journey, but also his property journey, and the lessons listeners can take away for their own investing path. 

Connect with Axel:

Visit the website: https://www.gardenlust.com.au/

Follow Axel on Instagram: 

https://www.instagram.com/axel.verite/

Follow Gardenlust on Instagram: 

https://www.instagram.com/gardenlust.au/

Follow Axel on LinkedIn: 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/axel-v%C3%A9rit%C3%A9-7046a9aa/

About Julian:

Julian Khursigara is the CEO of Search Party Property, a Sydney-based buyers agency helping busy professionals build sustainable investment portfolios with clarity and confidence. With over two decades in customer experience and loyalty across the Asia-Pacific region, Julian brings a sharp, data-driven lens to property investing. What began as a personal passion quickly became a mission—to close the knowledge gap and empower everyday Australians to invest smarter. In recognition of this impact, Search Party Property was named a Finalist for Buyers Agency of the Year, and Julian a Finalist for Buyers Agent of the Year at the 2025 REB Awards.

As host of Invest Smarter Grow Faster, Julian draws on his own investing journey and years of strategic insights to demystify property for time-poor professionals. His philosophy is simple: life’s no dress rehearsal, and smart property decisions today create the freedom to choose tomorrow. Through the show, he shares real-world lessons, expert conversations, and proven strategies to help listeners take control of their financial future—one property at a time.

Connect with Julian:

Visit the website: https://searchpartyproperty.com.au/

Follow Julian on LinkedIn: 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/buyersagent-sydney-brisbane-melbourne-adelaide-perth/

Follow Julian on Instagram: 

https://www.instagram.com/juliankhursigara_buyersagent/

Follow Julian on Facebook: 

https://www.facebook.com/investmentpropertybuyersagent/

Follow Julian on Tiktok: 

https://www.tiktok.com/@julian_buyersagent

Subscribe to Julian Khursigara YouTube Channel: 

https://www.youtube.com/@juliankhursigara_buyersagent

If you’d like a personalised review of your financial situation, help setting clear investment goals, and a data-driven strategy to guide your property journey—including insights into high-growth areas and a roadmap to financial freedom—book a time with Julian here: https://calendly.com/julian_spp/45min

Disclaimer

Invest Smarter Grow Faster provides general information and commentary about property, finance, and investing. It does not constitute financial, legal, tax, or investment advice tailored to your personal circumstances. Before making any financial decisions, you should seek professional advice from a qualified adviser.

While we aim for accuracy and quality, we cannot guarantee all information is complete, up-to-date, or free from errors. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results.

Manpreet Singh's journey from Indian migrant to founding one of Australia's most trusted accounting firms reveals the financial foundations every investor and business owner gets wrong. After seven years climbing the accounting ladder, he made a bold one-week decision that changed everything.

In this conversation, Manpreet exposes the critical mistakes that destroy businesses and investment portfolios. He reveals why a simple 1% price increase can double your profit, how "micro improvements" transform cashflow, and why most people set up trust structures at exactly the wrong time.

From his unique SIS framework (Situation, Intention, Structure) to busting dangerous SMSF myths, Manpreet shares the strategies big firms use for major clients that small businesses and property investors never hear about. He explains why "turnover is ego but cashflow is existence," the hidden costs of credit cards on borrowing capacity, and how parents can help their children without risking everything.

Whether you're a first-time property investor or scaling a business empire, Manpreet's insights on systems, discipline, and strategic thinking could save you thousands in mistakes and multiply your wealth through smarter structures.

This episode cuts through the barbecue talk and DIY disasters to reveal what actually works in Australian property investment and business growth.

(2:00) The one-week decision to quit and start Ace Biz

(4:00) Key learnings from small vs large firms: strategy and technology gaps

(7:00) The two foundations every business needs: systems and discipline

(10:00) Why having systems is like bringing a gun to a knife fight

(14:00) How a 1% price increase can double your profit

(16:00) Turnover is ego, cashflow is existence - focus on survival first

(17:00) Property investor basics: record keeping and expense reviews

(19:00) Think like a business owner, not just an investor

(20:00) SMSF surge: why investors are moving to self-managed super

(21:00) The SIS analysis: Situation, Intention, Structure framework

(23:00) SMSF myths busted: what you can't do with super property

(25:00) Single contract rule and renovation restrictions in SMSF

(28:00) Why setting up structures too late costs you everything

(33:00) Land tax thresholds and why trusts aren't always right

(35:00) Bank of mum and dad: helping kids without losing everything

(37:00) Co-guarantor risks and relationship protection strategies

(40:00) Two essential tips for first-time property investors

(42:00) Offset accounts vs savings: the negative gearing advantage

About Manpreet:

Manpreet Singh is the Founder and Managing Director of Ace Biz. Manpreet is a confident and highly skilled accounting professional with a track record of working across both commerce and practice, supporting organisations from small businesses to multimillion-dollar companies. 

Since establishing Ace Biz in 2012, Manpreet and his team have redefined excellence in accounting by combining precision with innovation. With global expertise, experience in Big Four firms, and recognition such as the Local Business Award for Outstanding Professional Services and finalist in the Sydney Young Entrepreneur Awards 2023, Ace Biz has grown into one of Australia’s most trusted financial partners. 

Manpreet specialises in SMSF accounting and audit, tax planning, business structuring, and financial advisory with a strong focus on leveraging technology to streamline efficiency and empower business growth. He believes every business deserves more than standard accounting, that means delivering solutions that save time, cut costs, and reduce stress while helping clients scale with confidence. 

Connect with Manpreet:

Visit the website: Leading Accounting Firm in Sydney - Ace Biz

Follow Manpreet on LinkedIn: 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/manpreet-singh-08a46b1b/

About Julian:

Julian Khursigara is the CEO of Search Party Property, a Sydney-based buyers agency helping busy professionals build sustainable investment portfolios with clarity and confidence. With over two decades in customer experience and loyalty across the Asia-Pacific region, Julian brings a sharp, data-driven lens to property investing. What began as a personal passion quickly became a mission—to close the knowledge gap and empower everyday Australians to invest smarter. In recognition of this impact, Search Party Property was named a Finalist for Buyers Agency of the Year, and Julian a Finalist for Buyers Agent of the Year at the 2025 REB Awards.

As host of Invest Smarter Grow Faster, Julian draws on his own investing journey and years of strategic insights to demystify property for time-poor professionals. His philosophy is simple: life’s no dress rehearsal, and smart property decisions today create the freedom to choose tomorrow. Through the show, he shares real-world lessons, expert conversations, and proven strategies to help listeners take control of their financial future—one property at a time.

Connect with Julian:

Visit the website: https://searchpartyproperty.com.au/

Follow Julian on LinkedIn: 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/buyersagent-sydney-brisbane-melbourne-adelaide-perth/

Follow Julian on Instagram: 

https://www.instagram.com/juliankhursigara_buyersagent/

Follow Julian on Facebook: 

https://www.facebook.com/investmentpropertybuyersagent/

Follow Julian on Tiktok: 

https://www.tiktok.com/@julian_buyersagent

Subscribe to Julian Khursigara YouTube Channel: 

https://www.youtube.com/@juliankhursigara_buyersagent

If you’d like a personalised review of your financial situation, help setting clear investment goals, and a data-driven strategy to guide your property journey—including insights into high-growth areas and a roadmap to financial freedom—book a time with Julian here: https://calendly.com/julian_spp/45min

Disclaimer

Invest Smarter Grow Faster provides general information and commentary about property, finance, and investing. It does not constitute financial, legal, tax, or investment advice tailored to your personal circumstances. Before making any financial decisions, you should seek professional advice from a qualified adviser.

While we aim for accuracy and quality, we cannot guarantee all information is complete, up-to-date, or free from errors. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results.

Nick Georges' journey from footballer to director of one of Australia's fastest-growing offshore providers is a masterclass in turning setbacks into success. After his football dreams ended at 18, his painter father got him a job in real estate - a decision that would change thousands of lives across two countries.

Now Director of Growth at Wingman Group, Nick oversees 1200 remote professionals working across 900 Australian and New Zealand real estate businesses. But this isn't just another offshoring story - it's about humanising remote work, building genuine relationships, and creating systems that allow property managers to handle 300+ managements while business development managers sign 35 new clients monthly.

In this conversation, Nick reveals the brutal academy process where only 150 graduates emerge from 4000 monthly interviews, why most remote professional arrangements fail, and how AI will transform the industry without replacing the human element. He shares insights from working with Australia's top agents, the leadership lessons from Richard Branson that drive Wingman's culture, and why he believes the best agents focus on relationships and play the long game.

From losing his licence and accidentally becoming a property management expert to meeting his future business partner at a Brisbane football game, Nick's story proves that sometimes the biggest opportunities come from unexpected detours.

(5:00) Six years learning the trade at an independent Chatswood office

(7:00) Ray White Willoughby with Australia's top female agent

(8:00) Losing his licence and the sliding doors moment into property management

(10:00) Building Atlas Property Management and LJ Hooker national role

(12:00) Meeting Jonathan Bell at a Brisbane football game

(14:00) The mini roadshow that changed everything - 10 businesses signed

(15:00) The big decision: leaving corporate security for a startup

(16:00) Wingman's explosive growth: 1200 staff across 900 businesses in 2 years

(17:00) The emotional impact of changing lives in the Philippines

(19:00) Annual Philippines conference: 60 Australians meeting 700 staff

(20:00) The biggest problem in real estate: lack of process and structure

(22:00) House Mark's secret: 100+ new managements per month systematically

(25:00) Why Wingman evolved beyond just remote professionals

(27:00) Humanising offshoring and changing perceptions

(29:00) The brutal academy numbers: 4000 interviews, 150 graduates

(31:00) Why most remote professional arrangements fail

(34:00) The future of AI and offshoring working together

(37:00) Why property managers could manage 600+ properties with AI support

(39:00) The human element will never disappear from real estate

(42:00) What separates the best agents: relationships and long-term thinking

(45:00) Why young associates leave top teams too early

(47:00) The Richard Branson leadership philosophy at Wingman

(51:00) The sold-out industry event that started with one phone call

(55:00) Property investment advice: buy and hold when you're ready

About Nick:

Nick Georges is the Director of Growth at Wingman Group, one of Australia and New Zealand’s fastest-growing offshore providers, trusted by over 750 real estate agencies and recently ranked in the Deloitte Fast Tech Top 50 and AFR Fast Starters Top 100. 

Wingman helps real estate agencies and property service businesses scale sustainably by combining industry-trained remote professionals, smarter systems, and process improvement. They connect clients with degree-qualified, trained talent who integrate seamlessly into their teams, freeing up time, improving efficiency, and boosting the bottom line. With real-world experience inside high-performing real estate businesses, Nick knows what it takes to build a team that can handle growth.

Connect with Nick:

Visit the website: https://wingmangroup.com.au/

Follow Nick on LinkedIn

About Julian:

Julian Khursigara is the CEO of Search Party Property, a Sydney-based buyers agency helping busy professionals build sustainable investment portfolios with clarity and confidence. With over two decades in customer experience and loyalty across the Asia-Pacific region, Julian brings a sharp, data-driven lens to property investing. What began as a personal passion quickly became a mission—to close the knowledge gap and empower everyday Australians to invest smarter. In recognition of this impact, Search Party Property was named a Finalist for Buyers Agency of the Year, and Julian a Finalist for Buyers Agent of the Year at the 2025 REB Awards.

As host of Invest Smarter Grow Faster, Julian draws on his own investing journey and years of strategic insights to demystify property for time-poor professionals. His philosophy is simple: life’s no dress rehearsal, and smart property decisions today create the freedom to choose tomorrow. Through the show, he shares real-world lessons, expert conversations, and proven strategies to help listeners take control of their financial future—one property at a time.

Connect with Julian:

Visit the website: https://searchpartyproperty.com.au/

Follow Julian on LinkedIn: 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/buyersagent-sydney-brisbane-melbourne-adelaide-perth/

Follow Julian on Instagram: 

https://www.instagram.com/juliankhursigara_buyersagent/

Follow Julian on Facebook: 

https://www.facebook.com/investmentpropertybuyersagent/

Follow Julian on Tiktok: 

https://www.tiktok.com/@julian_buyersagent

Subscribe to Julian Khursigara YouTube Channel: 

https://www.youtube.com/@juliankhursigara_buyersagent

If you’d like a personalised review of your financial situation, help setting clear investment goals, and a data-driven strategy to guide your property journey—including insights into high-growth areas and a roadmap to financial freedom—book a time with Julian here: https://calendly.com/julian_spp/45min

Disclaimer

Invest Smarter Grow Faster provides general information and commentary about property, finance, and investing. It does not constitute financial, legal, tax, or investment advice tailored to your personal circumstances. Before making any financial decisions, you should seek professional advice from a qualified adviser.

While we aim for accuracy and quality, we cannot guarantee all information is complete, up-to-date, or free from errors. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results.

Peter Ristevski, CEO of Investment Plus Accounting Group and named Australia's Best Accountant in 2024, reveals why most property investors are making expensive structural mistakes that could cost them hundreds of thousands.

From running a mail order business in high school that earned more than his dad to building an accounting empire with offices across Australia, Dubai, Hong Kong and New Zealand, Peter's journey is anything but ordinary. Known as "The 1% Accountant," he's built his reputation on challenging the status quo and creating asset protection structures that no other firm in Australia offers.

In this conversation, Peter shares the costly mistakes investors make by putting properties in the wrong names, why negative gearing should never be your primary strategy, and how testamentary trusts can protect generational wealth from divorce courts. He also reveals his thoughts on the ATO's upcoming changes, why Sydney's property dominance is a myth backed by 40 years of data, and his predictions for potential taxation on family homes.

Whether you're buying your first investment property or building a multi-million dollar portfolio, Peter's insights on structures, tax minimisation and asset protection could save you more money than any property deal ever will.


(5:00) From construction worker's son to accounting practice owner at 25

(7:00) Why he's called "The 1% Accountant" and standing out from 10,000 firms

(11:00) The biggest mistake investors make with property structures

(12:00) Equity bank trusts and the four-year rule for asset protection

(13:00) How their structure accidentally protects against divorce

(14:00) Bank of mum and dad strategies and testamentary trusts

(16:00) The $10 million inheritance disaster that could have been prevented

(20:00) Why putting properties in different names saves $20K+ per year

(22:00) Land tax strategies across different states

(28:00) International tax strategies: Dubai, Hong Kong and New Zealand opportunities

(29:00) Why New Zealand offers four years of tax-free foreign income

(34:00) ATO changes and the superannuation unrealised gains tax

(37:00) Will family homes ever be taxed in Australia?

(39:00) Self-managed super funds: the ultimate property investment structure

(41:00) When to consider trust structures for multiple properties

(43:00) Why Sydney's property dominance is a 40-year myth

(44:00) The apartment crisis: waterproofing, builders and bank lending restrictions

(48:00) Why first home buyer grants just go to developers

(50:00) Peter's golden rule: get advice before you spend a million dollars

About Peter:

Ristevski is the CEO of Investment Plus Accounting Group, named Australia’s Best Tax Accountant in 2024, and known as ‘The 1% Accountant’, a Forbes Trusted Advisor who helps clients legally minimise their tax and protect their assets in ways most accountants wouldn’t even consider. 

With more than 20 years’ experience across accounting, finance, and property, Peter has built a reputation as a disruptor creating asset protection structures and tax strategies that no other firm in Australia offers. He’s been featured in the Australian Financial Review, Channel Nine News, and Channel 7’s Industry Leaders, and runs offices not just in Sydney and Adelaide, but also in Dubai, Hong Kong, and New Zealand, helping clients tap into strategies used by global giants like Google and Apple. 

Connect with Peter:

Visit the website: https://www.investplusaccounting.com.au/

Follow Peter on LinkedIn: 

About Julian:

Julian Khursigara is the CEO of Search Party Property, a Sydney-based buyers agency helping busy professionals build sustainable investment portfolios with clarity and confidence. With over two decades in customer experience and loyalty across the Asia-Pacific region, Julian brings a sharp, data-driven lens to property investing. What began as a personal passion quickly became a mission—to close the knowledge gap and empower everyday Australians to invest smarter. In recognition of this impact, Search Party Property was named a Finalist for Buyers Agency of the Year, and Julian a Finalist for Buyers Agent of the Year at the 2025 REB Awards.

As host of Invest Smarter Grow Faster, Julian draws on his own investing journey and years of strategic insights to demystify property for time-poor professionals. His philosophy is simple: life’s no dress rehearsal, and smart property decisions today create the freedom to choose tomorrow. Through the show, he shares real-world lessons, expert conversations, and proven strategies to help listeners take control of their financial future—one property at a time.

Connect with Julian:

Visit the website: https://searchpartyproperty.com.au/

Follow Julian on LinkedIn: 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/buyersagent-sydney-brisbane-melbourne-adelaide-perth/

Follow Julian on Instagram: 

https://www.instagram.com/juliankhursigara_buyersagent/

Follow Julian on Facebook: 

https://www.facebook.com/investmentpropertybuyersagent/

Follow Julian on Tiktok: 

https://www.tiktok.com/@julian_buyersagent

Subscribe to Julian Khursigara YouTube Channel: 

https://www.youtube.com/@juliankhursigara_buyersagent

If you’d like a personalised review of your financial situation, help setting clear investment goals, and a data-driven strategy to guide your property journey—including insights into high-growth areas and a roadmap to financial freedom—book a time with Julian here: https://calendly.com/julian_spp/45min

Disclaimer

Invest Smarter Grow Faster provides general information and commentary about property, finance, and investing. It does not constitute financial, legal, tax, or investment advice tailored to your personal circumstances. Before making any financial decisions, you should seek professional advice from a qualified adviser.

While we aim for accuracy and quality, we cannot guarantee all information is complete, up-to-date, or free from errors. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results.

Mat's story is one of the most compelling migrant success stories in Australian property. Arriving from Serbia at 17 without speaking English, he went from construction sites to building one of Australia's most sophisticated property analytics platforms.

In this conversation, Mat reveals how he and co-founder Alex created HTag Analytics - a platform that analyses over 80 metrics and 2 billion data points to predict property growth before the market catches on. We explore the crucial difference between "hotspots" (already expensive) and "warm spots" (where smart money goes), and why 80% of property returns come from location choice, not the property itself.

Mat shares the mistakes that nearly killed their business, why most property courses fail investors, and how AI is revolutionising property analysis. Plus, he gives his current buying recommendations for different budgets.

This episode is packed with insights on data-driven property investing, building a tech business, and why community beats competition every time.

Mat's migration story and early struggles (0:00)
From construction worker to estimating director in 6 months (8:00)
Meeting co-founder Alex through Russian language classes (13:00)
The problem with property seminars and spruikers (15:00)
Building HTag Analytics for themselves first (18:00)
How the RCS predictive algorithm actually works (20:00)
Why hotspots vs warm spots thinking is crucial (24:00)
The Melbourne prediction that everyone laughed at (24:00)
Why property has enduring trends unlike shares or crypto (31:00)
The biggest business building mistakes they made (32:00)
Why community and partnerships beat going solo (34:00)
Can everyday investors use data without professionals? (38:00)
The $7 million portfolio built using HTag only (44:00)
Three biggest mistakes property investors make (45:00)
How AI is transforming property analysis (48:00)
Why ChatGPT fails at property investing advice (50:00)
Building custom AI agents with 5 decades of property data (51:00)
Current buying recommendations for different budgets (56:00)
Why Melbourne is the top pick right now (56:00)
The ACT opportunity no one's talking about (57:00)

About Mat: 

Matija Djolic is someone who’s been on a mission to change the way Australians invest in property. In 2018, alongside his co-founder Alex, Mat set out with a bold vision: to help investors cut through the hype, avoid costly mistakes, and make smarter property decisions based on facts, not fads. Together, they founded HtAG Analytics, a platform that’s like having a data analyst in your pocket, giving everyday investors and property professionals the tools they need to find locations with higher-than-average growth potential. 

By 2020, the HtAG team had spent two years building a treasure trove of reliable property data from historical prices and market trends to economic indicators and demographic shifts all with a commitment to data integrity. Their work led to the creation of RCS™, a predictive model that analyses over 80 metrics and nearly 2 billion data points using advanced machine learning. This was a game-changer for identifying profitable suburbs before the market caught on. 

Fast forward to today, HtAG is more than just a platform; it’s a thriving community of investors and professionals who share knowledge, collaborate on strategies, and stay ahead of the market together. Matija’s mission remains crystal clear: to democratise property research, empower investors with trustworthy insights, and help them invest with confidence. 

Access exclusive 3-step prediction method, get coaching form industry experts and leverage AI-powered research applications to build high performing portfolios here: https://mastermind.htag.com.au/

Unlock the full power of HtAG today. Compare plans and check out their products, features and services here: 

https://www.htag.com.au/services/

 

About Julian:

Julian Khursigara is the CEO of Search Party Property, a Sydney-based buyers agency helping busy professionals build sustainable investment portfolios with clarity and confidence. With over two decades in customer experience and loyalty across the Asia-Pacific region, Julian brings a sharp, data-driven lens to property investing. What began as a personal passion quickly became a mission—to close the knowledge gap and empower everyday Australians to invest smarter. In recognition of this impact, Search Party Property was named a Finalist for Buyers Agency of the Year, and Julian a Finalist for Buyers Agent of the Year at the 2025 REB Awards.

As host of Invest Smarter Grow Faster, Julian draws on his own investing journey and years of strategic insights to demystify property for time-poor professionals. His philosophy is simple: life’s no dress rehearsal, and smart property decisions today create the freedom to choose tomorrow. Through the show, he shares real-world lessons, expert conversations, and proven strategies to help listeners take control of their financial future—one property at a time.

Connect with Julian:

Visit the website: https://searchpartyproperty.com.au/

Follow Julian on LinkedIn: 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/buyersagent-sydney-brisbane-melbourne-adelaide-perth/

Follow Julian on Instagram: 

https://www.instagram.com/juliankhursigara_buyersagent/

Follow Julian on Facebook: 

https://www.facebook.com/investmentpropertybuyersagent/

Follow Julian on Tiktok: 

https://www.tiktok.com/@julian_buyersagent

Subscribe to Julian Khursigara YouTube Channel: 

https://www.youtube.com/@juliankhursigara_buyersagent

If you’d like a personalised review of your financial situation, help setting clear investment goals, and a data-driven strategy to guide your property journey—including insights into high-growth areas and a roadmap to financial freedom—book a time with Julian here: https://calendly.com/julian_spp/45min

Disclaimer

Invest Smarter Grow Faster provides general information and commentary about property, finance, and investing. It does not constitute financial, legal, tax, or investment advice tailored to your personal circumstances. Before making any financial decisions, you should seek professional advice from a qualified adviser.

While we aim for accuracy and quality, we cannot guarantee all information is complete, up-to-date, or free from errors. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results.

In this episode of The Smart Investor Show, Julian sits down with Nick Reilly, founder of Inovayt, to unpack what smart investing looks like in today’s fast-moving world. With nearly two decades of experience in lending and financial planning, Nick brings clarity to common pitfalls—from high-rise apartment traps to outdated SMSFs—and the red flags in property spruiking. They discuss the rise of buyer’s agents, the myth of the “best rate,” the increasing role of AI in finance, and why structure and planning matter more than ever. Nick also opens up about what makes a good advisor, how investors are changing post-COVID, and why confirmation—not just data—is what clients really seek. If you're planning to build a portfolio, refinance, or just want to avoid financial mistakes that could cost you decades, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.

(06:00) The evolution of mortgage broking
(07:00) Compliance then vs now
(08:00) How the industry changed post-Royal Commission
(09:00) Lessons from business: trust your gut
(10:00) The cost of hiring the wrong people
(19:00) Unwinding failed SMSF strategies
(20:30) When to sell underperforming assets
(21:30) Poor structure = poor returns
(23:30) Government schemes: pros, cons, and fine print
(27:00) The role of buyer’s agents in owner-occupier deals
(32:00) The rise in buyer’s agent leads
(34:00) AI in finance: threat or ally?
(38:00) Caution in AI implementation
(39:00) Why rates aren’t everything
(42:00) Avoiding rate traps and bank switches
(44:00) Land tax, cashflow, and chasing numbers
(45:00) The negative gearing myth
(46:00) Property growth expectations vs reality

About Nick:

Nick Reilly is the CEO and Founder of Inovayt Group, one of Australia’s leading independent financial services firms. Since 2007, he has built Inovayt into a nationally recognised organisation that delivers tailored solutions across mortgage broking, wealth planning and financial strategy. With a career in financial services that began in 2001, Nick combines a Bachelor of Business (Accounting & Finance) with extensive industry qualifications to guide both clients and his team toward long-term success.

His leadership focus is on helping clients make smarter financial decisions while also creating an environment where his team can thrive. Over nearly two decades, Nick has developed expertise in scaling financial services businesses, diversifying into complementary markets and building strong referral partnerships.

Beyond leading Inovayt, Nick is also a co-host of The Numbers Game podcast, where he joins Jason Robinson and Marty Vidakovic to share insights on finance, business and investment in a practical, conversational way. Passionate about helping people understand their numbers, Nick’s focus is on creating strategies that empower clients to build wealth and achieve their goals.

Connect with Nick:

Visit the website: https://www.inovayt.com.au/team/nick-reilly/

Follow Nick on LinkedIn: 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickreilly/

Follow Inovayt on Instagram: 

https://www.instagram.com/inovayt.your.finance/

Follow Inovayt on Facebook: 

https://www.facebook.com/share/16sD23fhCt/

Subscribe to The Numbers Game podcast: 

https://thenumbersgamepodcast.com.au/

About Julian:

Julian Khursigara is the CEO of Search Party Property, a Sydney-based buyers agency helping busy professionals build sustainable investment portfolios with clarity and confidence. With over two decades in customer experience and loyalty across the Asia-Pacific region, Julian brings a sharp, data-driven lens to property investing. What began as a personal passion quickly became a mission—to close the knowledge gap and empower everyday Australians to invest smarter. In recognition of this impact, Search Party Property was named a Finalist for Buyers Agency of the Year, and Julian a Finalist for Buyers Agent of the Year at the 2025 REB Awards.

As host of Invest Smarter Grow Faster, Julian draws on his own investing journey and years of strategic insights to demystify property for time-poor professionals. His philosophy is simple: life’s no dress rehearsal, and smart property decisions today create the freedom to choose tomorrow. Through the show, he shares real-world lessons, expert conversations, and proven strategies to help listeners take control of their financial future—one property at a time.

Connect with Julian:

Visit the website: https://searchpartyproperty.com.au/

Follow Julian on LinkedIn: 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/buyersagent-sydney-brisbane-melbourne-adelaide-perth/

Follow Julian on Instagram: 

https://www.instagram.com/juliankhursigara_buyersagent/

Follow Julian on Facebook: 

https://www.facebook.com/investmentpropertybuyersagent/

Follow Julian on Tiktok: 

https://www.tiktok.com/@julian_buyersagent

Subscribe to Julian Khursigara YouTube Channel: 

https://www.youtube.com/@juliankhursigara_buyersagent

If you’d like a personalised review of your financial situation, help setting clear investment goals, and a data-driven strategy to guide your property journey—including insights into high-growth areas and a roadmap to financial freedom—book a time with Julian here: https://calendly.com/julian_spp/45min

Disclaimer

Invest Smarter Grow Faster provides general information and commentary about property, finance, and investing. It does not constitute financial, legal, tax, or investment advice tailored to your personal circumstances. Before making any financial decisions, you should seek professional advice from a qualified adviser.

While we aim for accuracy and quality, we cannot guarantee all information is complete, up-to-date, or free from errors. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results.

In this episode of The Smart Investor Show, Julian is joined by finance strategist and Entourage Finance broker Katherine Stephens. With over a decade in banking, commercial lending, and now broking, Kat shares how she helps clients go beyond a transaction to build real financial strategy.

From leveraging equity the smart way, to structuring for long-term growth, and avoiding pre-approval traps, Kat reveals the common mistakes buyers make — and how to avoid them. They also deep-dive into SMSF borrowing, the power of pre-planning, and how working with the right team (accountant, buyer’s agent, broker, and solicitor) is the secret weapon of top investors.

(04:00) Breaking into commercial banking and working with high-net clients

(06:00) Why she moved from banking to broking

(08:00) The big difference a broker can make

(10:00) Why broking allows true long-term client relationships

(11:00) How Kat preps clients for strategy, not just loans

(13:00) Building a team around your finance plan

(14:00) The trust trap: why BBQ advice costs real money

(15:00) Why fully assessed pre-approvals matter

(16:30) The hidden risks of computer-generated approvals

(18:00) Business owners and finance — what’s changed?

(20:00) SMSF lending: boom, trends, and what’s possible

(22:30) What minimum balance do you really need for SMSF property?

(25:00) Common SMSF mistakes: equity access, off-the-plan traps

(27:00) Why “trusted” advisers still get it wrong

(28:30) Cashflow errors that could’ve been avoided

(30:00) Staying across government grants and schemes

(32:00) Rentvesting is back — and it’s smarter than ever

(34:30) Real growth vs. emotional buying

(36:00) Case study: how a client went from one to two properties fast

(37:00) Where investors are buying in 2024

(39:00) Why most investors stall after property #1

(40:00) How to unlock and leverage equity

(42:00) Structuring for growth: trusts, names, and the ATO

(44:00) The reality of owning 10+ properties

(45:00) Mindset, maintenance, and managing expectations

(46:00) Knowing your comfort zone and cashflow limits
(47:00) Final thoughts: plan early, build your finance team

About Kat:

Kathryn Stephens is Finance Broker at Entourage Finance based in Cremorne, Victoria. Kathryn has over 9 years of experience in the financial services industry. Prior to joining Entourage Finance, Kathryn held various roles within the financial services industry, including analyst and relationship executive roles at CBA. She worked at the Australian Lending & Investment Centre for 2 years gaining her experience around strategy and structure for her clients. In her current position, she is responsible for providing ethical lending solutions to clients across diverse industries, helping them to build their wealth.

On a day-to-day basis, Kathryn meets with clients, helps them make informed financial decisions, and provides them with personalised advice and guidance. She takes a holistic approach to her work, leveraging her experience in retail, corporate, commercial, and premier banking to provide tailored solutions that meet her clients’ specific needs. What sets her apart from her peers is her commitment to building long-term relationships with her clients, with the goal of enabling them to eventually work because they want to, not because they have to.

Kathryn is a certified MFAA and AFCA member, with a Certificate IV in Banking and Finance and a Bachelor of Business and Finance, giving her the qualifications and experience to provide exceptional service to her clients. Positive results in her role are measured through happy client feedback and referrals via word of mouth.

Connect with Kat:

Visit the website: https://entourage.com.au/about/

Follow Kat on LinkedIn: 

Follow Kat on Instagram: 

https://www.instagram.com/entourage_au?igsh=NTI4Mm5sNm5vM24y

Follow Kat on Facebook

About Julian:

Julian Khursigara is the CEO of Search Party Property, a Sydney-based buyers agency helping busy professionals build sustainable investment portfolios with clarity and confidence. With over two decades in customer experience and loyalty across the Asia-Pacific region, Julian brings a sharp, data-driven lens to property investing. What began as a personal passion quickly became a mission—to close the knowledge gap and empower everyday Australians to invest smarter. In recognition of this impact, Search Party Property was named a Finalist for Buyers Agency of the Year, and Julian a Finalist for Buyers Agent of the Year at the 2025 REB Awards.

As host of Invest Smarter Grow Faster, Julian draws on his own investing journey and years of strategic insights to demystify property for time-poor professionals. His philosophy is simple: life’s no dress rehearsal, and smart property decisions today create the freedom to choose tomorrow. Through the show, he shares real-world lessons, expert conversations, and proven strategies to help listeners take control of their financial future—one property at a time.

Connect with Julian:

Visit the website: https://searchpartyproperty.com.au/

Follow Julian on LinkedIn: 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/buyersagent-sydney-brisbane-melbourne-adelaide-perth/

Follow Julian on Instagram: 

https://www.instagram.com/juliankhursigara_buyersagent/

Follow Julian on Facebook: 

https://www.facebook.com/investmentpropertybuyersagent/

Follow Julian on Tiktok: 

https://www.tiktok.com/@julian_buyersagent

Subscribe to Julian Khursigara YouTube Channel: 

https://www.youtube.com/@juliankhursigara_buyersagent

If you’d like a personalised review of your financial situation, help setting clear investment goals, and a data-driven strategy to guide your property journey—including insights into high-growth areas and a roadmap to financial freedom—book a time with Julian here: https://calendly.com/julian_spp/45min

Disclaimer

Invest Smarter Grow Faster provides general information and commentary about property, finance, and investing. It does not constitute financial, legal, tax, or investment advice tailored to your personal circumstances. Before making any financial decisions, you should seek professional advice from a qualified adviser.

While we aim for accuracy and quality, we cannot guarantee all information is complete, up-to-date, or free from errors. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results.

In this episode of The Smart Investor Show, Julian is joined by Kaveer Soni, commercial lawyer and founder of Soni Legal. With legal experience spanning South Africa and Australia, Kaveer breaks down how investors can protect themselves in an increasingly complex property market.

From risky house-and-land packages and joint ventures with family or friends, to trust structures, asset protection, and commercial property traps—this episode is a legal reality check for every investor.

Kaveer shares his personal investment journey, the pros and cons of buying property with others, and the one thing you must do before signing a contract. If you're buying property, especially off-the-plan or with others, this is essential listening. Legal protection isn't just for worst-case scenarios—it's how smart investors plan for success.

(00:00) Buyers caught out in shady contracts

(01:00) Meet Kaveer Soni: dual-qualified lawyer and investor

(02:00) South Africa, the US, and settling in Australia

(04:00) How property built the Soni family foundation

(06:00) From Johannesburg to Sydney: starting Soni Legal

(07:00) The danger of buying property with friends and family

(08:30) JV deals: love isn’t always enough

(09:00) Legal documents that protect partnerships from breakdown

(10:00) Trusts, structures, and asset protection

(11:30) Risk profiles: business owners vs PAYG employees

(13:00) Why six properties puts you in the 0.2%

(14:00) House-and-land packages: contracts you must review

(15:30) Developers reselling land and the legal loopholes

(16:30) Independent legal advice: the $2,000 mistake that costs $200k

(17:30) Social media marketing vs real due diligence

(18:30) Why Kaveer uses buyer’s agents for independent guidance

(19:00) Commercial property: leases, risks, and red flags
(20:30) Final advice: talk to your lawyer before things go wrong

About Kaveer:
Kaveer Soni is an experienced commercial lawyer with a strong background in insolvency, litigation, and business advisory. Admitted in both South Africa and Australia, he brings over a decade of legal expertise to the table helping businesses navigate growth, manage risk, and resolve complex legal challenges.

As the founder of Soni Legal, Kaveer is known for delivering frank, non-judgmental advice and realistic strategies that support his clients’ best interests. His experience spans negotiation, strategic planning, and supporting directors and insolvency practitioners through high-stakes decisions.

With active memberships across local and international legal associations, Kaveer’s insights are both globally informed and grounded in practical outcomes.

Connect with Kaveer:
Visit the website: https://www.soni.legal/

Follow Kaveer on LinkedIn

Follow Soni Legal on LinkedIn Business Page

Follow Soni Legal on Instagram

Follow Soni Legal on Facebook 

About Julian:

Julian Khursigara is the CEO of Search Party Property, a Sydney-based buyers agency helping busy professionals build sustainable investment portfolios with clarity and confidence. With over two decades in customer experience and loyalty across the Asia-Pacific region, Julian brings a sharp, data-driven lens to property investing. What began as a personal passion quickly became a mission—to close the knowledge gap and empower everyday Australians to invest smarter. In recognition of this impact, Search Party Property was named a Finalist for Buyers Agency of the Year, and Julian a Finalist for Buyers Agent of the Year at the 2025 REB Awards.

As host of Invest Smarter Grow Faster, Julian draws on his own investing journey and years of strategic insights to demystify property for time-poor professionals. His philosophy is simple: life’s no dress rehearsal, and smart property decisions today create the freedom to choose tomorrow. Through the show, he shares real-world lessons, expert conversations, and proven strategies to help listeners take control of their financial future—one property at a time.

Connect with Julian:

Visit the website: https://searchpartyproperty.com.au/

Follow Julian on LinkedIn: 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/buyersagent-sydney-brisbane-melbourne-adelaide-perth/

Follow Julian on Instagram: 

https://www.instagram.com/juliankhursigara_buyersagent/

Follow Julian on Facebook: 

https://www.facebook.com/investmentpropertybuyersagent/

Follow Julian on Tiktok: 

https://www.tiktok.com/@julian_buyersagent

Subscribe to Julian Khursigara YouTube Channel: 

https://www.youtube.com/@juliankhursigara_buyersagent

If you’d like a personalised review of your financial situation, help setting clear investment goals, and a data-driven strategy to guide your property journey—including insights into high-growth areas and a roadmap to financial freedom—book a time with Julian here: https://calendly.com/julian_spp/45min

Disclaimer

Invest Smarter Grow Faster provides general information and commentary about property, finance, and investing. It does not constitute financial, legal, tax, or investment advice tailored to your personal circumstances. Before making any financial decisions, you should seek professional advice from a qualified adviser.

While we aim for accuracy and quality, we cannot guarantee all information is complete, up-to-date, or free from errors. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results.

In this episode of The Smart Investor Show, Julian sits down with economic futurist, behavioral finance expert, and bestselling author Evan Lucas. From his unexpected career journey to hard truths about rentvesting, regional trends, and the misunderstood "Bank of Mum and Dad," Evan unpacks how emotions drive our money decisions.

They dive into affordability, post-COVID shifts, investing mindsets, and why owning 10 properties might not equal financial freedom. It’s a candid, insightful conversation that blends global insight with real, human behavior. Whether you're a seasoned investor or just money-curious, this episode will challenge how you think about wealth.

In this episode of The Smart Investor Show, Julian sits down with economic futurist, behavioral finance expert, and bestselling author Evan Lucas. From his unexpected career journey to hard truths about rentvesting, regional trends, and the misunderstood "Bank of Mum and Dad," Evan unpacks how emotions drive our money decisions.

They dive into affordability, post-COVID shifts, investing mindsets, and why owning 10 properties might not equal financial freedom. It’s a candid, insightful conversation that blends global insight with real, human behavior. Whether you're a seasoned investor or just money-curious, this episode will challenge how you think about wealth.

[01:00] Introducing Evan Lucas: futurist, author, economic mind

[04:00] Evan’s early life, med school dreams & pivot to finance

[11:30] Creating your own luck and building momentum

[13:30] Property as taboo: Why families don’t talk money

[15:00] Evan’s first property purchase – a rare fast-track

[18:30] Perth, Brisbane, and why infrastructure still misses the mark

[21:00] Should we limit negative gearing?

[25:00] Cultural approaches to shared wealth vs Aussie individualism

[30:00] Escapism, value, and why lifestyle is trumping location

[33:00] Rentvesting: smart strategy or future trap?

[35:00] Wealth, autonomy & when to sell investments

[41:00] Australia’s domestic focus vs global economic shocks

[43:00] COVID’s reminder: don’t ignore the outside world

About Evan:

Evan Lucas is a behavioural finance expert, economic futurist, and keynote speaker with over 15 years of global experience across Australia, the UK, Singapore, and the Netherlands. He is passionate about helping people understand the psychology behind financial decision-making and how our behaviour not just the numbers shapes our financial outcomes. With a background in macro strategy, portfolio modelling, and market analysis, Evan brings a uniquely human lens to the world of finance.

As a trusted voice in media, Evan regularly appears on ABC News, The Project, SBS’s Insight, Sky News, and more, breaking down complex financial themes for everyday Australians. He is also the author of Mind Over Money, a book that explores how emotions and habits influence our money choices. Whether he’s on TV or delivering a workshop, Evan’s mission is simple: make the complex simple, so people can make better choices with their money.

Through his keynotes and live events, Evan challenges audiences to rethink their relationship with money, tune into their behaviours, and build stronger financial habits. His dynamic speaking style, rooted in real-world data and behavioural insigh,t educates, energises, and empowers people to take action in an ever-changing economic landscape.

Connect with Evan:
Visit the website: www.evanlucas.com.au

Follow Evan on LinkedIn

Follow Evan on Instagram

Subscribe to Evan's YouTube Channel

About Julian:

Julian Khursigara is the CEO of Search Party Property, a Sydney-based buyers agency helping busy professionals build sustainable investment portfolios with clarity and confidence. With over two decades in customer experience and loyalty across the Asia-Pacific region, Julian brings a sharp, data-driven lens to property investing. What began as a personal passion quickly became a mission—to close the knowledge gap and empower everyday Australians to invest smarter. In recognition of this impact, Search Party Property was named a Finalist for Buyers Agency of the Year, and Julian a Finalist for Buyers Agent of the Year at the 2025 REB Awards.

As host of Invest Smarter Grow Faster, Julian draws on his own investing journey and years of strategic insights to demystify property for time-poor professionals. His philosophy is simple: life’s no dress rehearsal, and smart property decisions today create the freedom to choose tomorrow. Through the show, he shares real-world lessons, expert conversations, and proven strategies to help listeners take control of their financial future—one property at a time.

Connect with Julian:

Visit the website: https://searchpartyproperty.com.au/

Follow Julian on LinkedIn: 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/buyersagent-sydney-brisbane-melbourne-adelaide-perth/

Follow Julian on Instagram: 

https://www.instagram.com/juliankhursigara_buyersagent/

Follow Julian on Facebook: 

https://www.facebook.com/investmentpropertybuyersagent/

Follow Julian on Tiktok: 

https://www.tiktok.com/@julian_buyersagent

Subscribe to Julian Khursigara YouTube Channel: 

https://www.youtube.com/@juliankhursigara_buyersagent

If you’d like a personalised review of your financial situation, help setting clear investment goals, and a data-driven strategy to guide your property journey—including insights into high-growth areas and a roadmap to financial freedom—book a time with Julian here: https://calendly.com/julian_spp/45min

Disclaimer

Invest Smarter Grow Faster provides general information and commentary about property, finance, and investing. It does not constitute financial, legal, tax, or investment advice tailored to your personal circumstances. Before making any financial decisions, you should seek professional advice from a qualified adviser.

While we aim for accuracy and quality, we cannot guarantee all information is complete, up-to-date, or free from errors. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results.