In this investor episode, Sammy sits down with Yao Chen, a migrant from Taiwan whose journey from humble beginnings and financial hardships to building an impressive $2.7 million property portfolio is nothing short of remarkable. Listeners may remember Yao-Chen’s moving speech at the GC APS Summit in 2024, where he shared how changing his family’s financial path meant everything to him. Today, Yao-Chen opens up about the real-life struggles, setbacks, and turning points that shaped his approach to investing and life. Sammy and Yao-Chen dive into the transformative power of property, the lessons learned from costly mistakes, and the drive it takes to persevere through adversity. Yao-Chen reveals the realities of working multiple jobs, falling victim to an investment scam, and pulling through with sheer determination and the right guidance. From door-knocking for work in Darwin to navigating complex property deals and finally securing financial stability, this episode is packed with honest insights, practical strategies, and heartfelt reflections for anyone dreaming of building wealth through real estate; no matter where they’re starting from. School of Property is the ultimate education destination to master property investment, with a curriculum meticulously designed and crafted with both beginners and experts in mind. Whether you are a complete novice, or you’re ready to take things to the next level in your portfolio, this is the program for you! To find out more, head to www.schoolofproperty.com.au.

If you loved this episode please send it on to someone who would take some value, and please give us a 5 star review if you haven't yet and are loving the poddy!

If you want your question answered on our podcast DM us on our socials or email us at apsteam@australianpropertyscout.com.au

Send us your questions to:

Instagram: @australianpropertyscout

Want to book a call with us:

Website: https://australianpropertyscout.com.au

Any information, comments, opinions or content that we provide in this podcast is our general observations and information only and it is not to be taken as, or in any way, considered to be financial advice, accounting advice, superannuation advice or legal advice. We strongly recommend all and any listener and participant to obtain their own independent financial advice, accounting advice, superannuation advice and legal advice before acting in any way in relation to any investment at all including any investment in property such as what we might be discussing in this podcast. No warranty, guarantee or representation is to be taken and you cannot reproduce it in any way. Every persons financial or investment situation is different and you must consider your own circumstances before undertaking any investment and be sure to obtain independent advice.

Australian Property Scout Pty Ltd | License Number: 10094798 | ABN: 64 638 266 369

Chapters:

(00:01:45) Welcome

(00:06:14) Motivation: a better future

(00:07:59) Moving to Australia and an unexpected scam

(00:10:22) Arriving in Darwin and job struggles

(00:12:19) Early jobs and saving money

(00:17:54) Mining scam causing financial devastation

(00:20:52) Experience with other buyer’s agents

(00:30:32) Selling off bad investment

(00:34:45) First APS property

(00:37:26) School of Property

(00:43:23) Insurance claim + renovation

(00:48:38) Building up to 6 properties

(00:53:59) Never give up mindset

(00:56:56) Advice for starting investors

(01:01:06) Rapid fire questions!

In this week's episode, Sam Gordon is joined in the studio by Brendan Geoghegan, Head of Education at School of Property, for an energetic and insightful chat all about mid-year goal resetting and practical tax strategies as we approach the end of financial year. Brendan shares his personal experiences, actionable advice, and some pro tax tips fresh from a chat with his accountant. Together, Sammy and Brendan dive into why a mid-year check-in is crucial for anyone on a property journey, exploring how to reflect, reset, and reprioritise financial, lifestyle, and family goals. The conversation wraps up with updates on the much-anticipated School of Property Bootcamp! Whether you’re new to property investing or well along your path, this episode is packed with real-life strategies, and a ton of value to help you thrive as a property investor. To join the School of Property Virtual Training this Thursday 26th June at 6:00pm AEST, register here! School of Property is the ultimate education destination to master property investment, with a curriculum meticulously designed and crafted with both beginners and experts in mind. Whether you are a complete novice, or you’re ready to take things to the next level in your portfolio, this is the program for you! To find out more, head to www.schoolofproperty.com.au.

If you loved this episode please send it on to someone who would take some value, and please give us a 5 star review if you haven't yet and are loving the poddy!

If you want your question answered on our podcast DM us on our socials or email us at apsteam@australianpropertyscout.com.au

Send us your questions to:

Instagram: @australianpropertyscout

Want to book a call with us:

Website: https://australianpropertyscout.com.au

Any information, comments, opinions or content that we provide in this podcast is our general observations and information only and it is not to be taken as, or in any way, considered to be financial advice, accounting advice, superannuation advice or legal advice. We strongly recommend all and any listener and participant to obtain their own independent financial advice, accounting advice, superannuation advice and legal advice before acting in any way in relation to any investment at all including any investment in property such as what we might be discussing in this podcast. No warranty, guarantee or representation is to be taken and you cannot reproduce it in any way. Every persons financial or investment situation is different and you must consider your own circumstances before undertaking any investment and be sure to obtain independent advice.

Australian Property Scout Pty Ltd | License Number: 10094798 | ABN: 64 638 266 369

Chapters:

(00:01:45) Welcome & episode overview (00:08:52) Learning from setbacks and mindset shifts (00:14:13) Top tax tips: Tax time readiness (00:17:27) Tracking interest & refinances for deductions (00:20:09) Depreciation schedules & commercial property (00:25:39) Reviewing expenses: Personal and portfolio (00:28:49) PAYG variations for property investors (00:32:26) Bonus tax tip: School of Property deductibility (00:36:26) School of Property Bootcamp update (00:43:39) Commercial masterclass & real deal highlights

In this very special episode, Sammy Gordon and Jimmy Ibrahim are back in the studio after a HUGE event. Sam takes us on a personal and candid journey as he reveals a major milestone: after years of championing the benefits of rent-vesting and building a massive property portfolio, he’s finally bought his dream primary residence. Sammy opens up about what led him to make this decision, the emotional rollercoaster leading up to auction day, and the challenges he faced; even in the final minutes before making the biggest purchase of his life. This episode isn’t just about the lead up to purchasing an incredible home; it’s an honest, behind-the-scenes look at the strategy, mindset shifts, and sheer hard work it takes to turn dreams into reality. Hint: the lessons along the way are invaluable! School of Property is the ultimate education destination to master property investment, with a curriculum meticulously designed and crafted with both beginners and experts in mind. Whether you are a complete novice, or you’re ready to take things to the next level in your portfolio, this is the program for you! To find out more, head to www.schoolofproperty.com.au.

If you loved this episode please send it on to someone who would take some value, and please give us a 5 star review if you haven't yet and are loving the poddy!

If you want your question answered on our podcast DM us on our socials or email us at apsteam@australianpropertyscout.com.au

Send us your questions to:

Instagram: @australianpropertyscout

Want to book a call with us:

Website: https://australianpropertyscout.com.au

Any information, comments, opinions or content that we provide in this podcast is our general observations and information only and it is not to be taken as, or in any way, considered to be financial advice, accounting advice, superannuation advice or legal advice. We strongly recommend all and any listener and participant to obtain their own independent financial advice, accounting advice, superannuation advice and legal advice before acting in any way in relation to any investment at all including any investment in property such as what we might be discussing in this podcast. No warranty, guarantee or representation is to be taken and you cannot reproduce it in any way. Every persons financial or investment situation is different and you must consider your own circumstances before undertaking any investment and be sure to obtain independent advice.

Australian Property Scout Pty Ltd | License Number: 10094798 | ABN: 64 638 266 369

Chapters:

(00:01:45) Welcome

(00:07:12) The purpose of rentvesting

(00:11:09) Mindset shift: home ownership vs. wealth building

(00:17:47) How the dream home vision evolved

(00:21:29) First impressions at the inspection

(00:25:27) Crunching the numbers: funding the purchase

(00:36:23) Chaos pre-auction: contract issues & teamwork

(00:41:45) Auction strategy & emotions

(00:45:55) The auction experience: winning the home

(00:52:16) Documenting the journey & 15 years in the making

(00:57:46) What’s next for Sammy Gordon

(01:03:56) The importance of showing up & consistency

In this episode, Sammy Gordon is joined by his co-host Jimmy Ibrahim for a no-holds-barred myth-busting session on Australian property investment. Jimmy brings in insights straight from the front lines; sharing the questions, concerns, and misconceptions he has been hearing from a wave of first-time property investors.

Together, Sammy and Jimmy break down some of the most persistent property myths handed down through generations: from “rent money is dead money” to the classic “buy and hold forever” and “debt is bad.”

Whether it’s advice from your parents, headlines in the media, or industry “experts” pushing outdated strategies, this episode separates fact from fiction and shines a light on what actually works for building a property portfolio today.

No matter where you are in your investment journey, whether you’re just getting started or have a handful of properties under your belt, this episode is packed with practical examples, sharp commentary, and the tough love every investor needs.

School of Property is the ultimate education destination to master property investment, with a curriculum meticulously designed and crafted with both beginners and experts in mind. Whether you are a complete novice, or you’re ready to take things to the next level in your portfolio, this is the program for you! To find out more, head to www.schoolofproperty.com.au.

If you loved this episode please send it on to someone who would take some value, and please give us a 5 star review if you haven't yet and are loving the poddy!

If you want your question answered on our podcast DM us on our socials or email us at apsteam@australianpropertyscout.com.au

Send us your questions to:

Instagram: @australianpropertyscout

Want to book a call with us:

Website: https://australianpropertyscout.com.au

Any information, comments, opinions or content that we provide in this podcast is our general observations and information only and it is not to be taken as, or in any way, considered to be financial advice, accounting advice, superannuation advice or legal advice. We strongly recommend all and any listener and participant to obtain their own independent financial advice, accounting advice, superannuation advice and legal advice before acting in any way in relation to any investment at all including any investment in property such as what we might be discussing in this podcast. No warranty, guarantee or representation is to be taken and you cannot reproduce it in any way. Every persons financial or investment situation is different and you must consider your own circumstances before undertaking any investment and be sure to obtain independent advice.

Australian Property Scout Pty Ltd | License Number: 10094798 | ABN: 64 638 266 369

Chapters:

(01:45) Welcome

(06:43) Challenging property investment myths

(08:10) Strategy: deposits and equity

(11:39) Commercial lease benefits

(15:02) Rigid investment beliefs

(20:28) "Good vs. bad debt"

(27:17) Affordability limits market growth

(29:43) Take advice from someone who's done what you want to do

(32:52) Importance of circle of influence

(37:17) Essential use of all tiers of lenders

In this week's episode, join Sammy Gordon and APS Head of Strategy Luke Teeuwsen for an in-depth discussion on one of the hottest topics in the Australian housing market right now: the housing supply crisis and whether government solutions are really addressing the root of the problem.

Sammy and Luke break down recent election promises and policies aimed at first home buyers, dissecting why government handouts and grants may be missing the mark and potentially making things worse for future generations. They explore how skyrocketing construction costs, decreasing new home builds, and massive infrastructure projects are all converging to keep supply tight and prices on the rise. Whether you’re an investor, a hopeful homebuyer, or just curious about the forces shaping property in Australia, this episode is packed with critical insights, practical solutions, and plenty of straight talk.

School of Property is the ultimate education destination to master property investment, with a curriculum meticulously designed and crafted with both beginners and experts in mind. Whether you are a complete novice, or you’re ready to take things to the next level in your portfolio, this is the program for you! To find out more, head to www.schoolofproperty.com.au.

If you loved this episode please send it on to someone who would take some value, and please give us a 5 star review if you haven't yet and are loving the poddy!

If you want your question answered on our podcast DM us on our socials or email us at apsteam@australianpropertyscout.com.au

Send us your questions to:

Instagram: @australianpropertyscout

Want to book a call with us:

Website: https://australianpropertyscout.com.au

Any information, comments, opinions or content that we provide in this podcast is our general observations and information only and it is not to be taken as, or in any way, considered to be financial advice, accounting advice, superannuation advice or legal advice. We strongly recommend all and any listener and participant to obtain their own independent financial advice, accounting advice, superannuation advice and legal advice before acting in any way in relation to any investment at all including any investment in property such as what we might be discussing in this podcast. No warranty, guarantee or representation is to be taken and you cannot reproduce it in any way. Every persons financial or investment situation is different and you must consider your own circumstances before undertaking any investment and be sure to obtain independent advice.

Australian Property Scout Pty Ltd | License Number: 10094798 | ABN: 64 638 266 369

Chapters:

(01:45) Welcome (06:41) Generational wealth gap in housing (13:11) Australian housing market outlook (17:52) Housing crisis amid population growth (24:07) Construction workforce shortage and challenges (32:29) Infrastructure projects boost economy (35:36) Infrastructure challenges for developers (41:13) Promoting mature age apprenticeships (45:28) Crisis: rising house prices unaddressed

If you loved this episode please send it on to someone who would take some value, and please give us a 5 star review if you haven't yet and are loving the poddy! If you're taking tremendous value from these episodes why not share them with your mate? If you want your question answered on our podcast DM us on our socials or email us at apsteam@australianpropertyscout.com.au Send us your questions to: Instagram: @australianpropertyscout Want to book a call with us: Website: https://australianpropertyscout.com.au Any information, comments, opinions or content that we provide in this podcast is our general observations and information only and it is not to be taken as, or in any way, considered to be financial advice, accounting advice, superannuation advice or legal advice. We strongly recommend all and any listener and participant to obtain their own independent financial advice, accounting advice, superannuation advice and legal advice before acting in any way in relation to any investment at all including any investment in property such as what we might be discussing in this podcast. No warranty, guarantee or representation is to be taken and you cannot reproduce it in any way. Every persons financial or investment situation is different and you must consider your own circumstances before undertaking any investment and be sure to obtain independent advice. Australian Property Scout Pty Ltd | License Number: 10094798 | ABN: 64 638 266 369

In this powerful episode, Sammy Gordon sits down with long-time Australian Property Scout client and committed property investor David, who shares his journey from a self-confessed “super green, super naive” beginner to building a multi-million dollar property portfolio. David opens up about his humble beginnings, the early spark of inspiration he found listening to podcasts, and the life-changing moment he connected with a young buyer’s agent whose story deeply resonated with him.

From reaching out for help in 2020 to now owning 8 investment properties and a family home with his wife Alicia, David reflects on the mindset shifts, sacrifices, and lessons that shaped his growth. Tune in to hear how he overcame setbacks, balanced family life with investing, and how surrounding himself with the right team helped unlock his success in the property game.

School of Property is the ultimate education destination to master property investment, with a curriculum meticulously designed and crafted with both beginners and experts in mind. Whether you are a complete novice, or you’re ready to take things to the next level in your portfolio, this is the program for you! To find out more, head to www.schoolofproperty.com.au. If you loved this episode please send it on to someone who would take some value, and please give us a 5 star review if you haven't yet and are loving the poddy!

If you want your question answered on our podcast DM us on our socials or email us at apsteam@australianpropertyscout.com.au

Send us your questions to:

Instagram: @australianpropertyscout

Want to book a call with us:

Website: https://australianpropertyscout.com.au

Any information, comments, opinions or content that we provide in this podcast is our general observations and information only and it is not to be taken as, or in any way, considered to be financial advice, accounting advice, superannuation advice or legal advice. We strongly recommend all and any listener and participant to obtain their own independent financial advice, accounting advice, superannuation advice and legal advice before acting in any way in relation to any investment at all including any investment in property such as what we might be discussing in this podcast. No warranty, guarantee or representation is to be taken and you cannot reproduce it in any way. Every persons financial or investment situation is different and you must consider your own circumstances before undertaking any investment and be sure to obtain independent advice.

Australian Property Scout Pty Ltd | License Number: 10094798 | ABN: 64 638 266 369

Chapters:

(01:45) Welcome (10:03) David and Alicia's journey (16:20) David's relocation overseas (24:52) Motivation for financial drive (32:15) Portfolio hardship and lessons (38:17) Priorities and making a commitment (43:58) Juggling a young family (52:15) Consistent accumulation and team work (59:05) The importance of strong foundations (01:06:39) Confidence from School of Property (01:13:23) Identifying as an investor (01:24:09) Trusting and backing the correct team

If you loved this episode please send it on to someone who would take some value, and please give us a 5 star review if you haven't yet and are loving the poddy! If you're taking tremendous value from these episodes why not share them with your mate? If you want your question answered on our podcast DM us on our socials or email us at apsteam@australianpropertyscout.com.au Send us your questions to: Instagram: @australianpropertyscout Want to book a call with us: Website: https://australianpropertyscout.com.au Any information, comments, opinions or content that we provide in this podcast is our general observations and information only and it is not to be taken as, or in any way, considered to be financial advice, accounting advice, superannuation advice or legal advice. We strongly recommend all and any listener and participant to obtain their own independent financial advice, accounting advice, superannuation advice and legal advice before acting in any way in relation to any investment at all including any investment in property such as what we might be discussing in this podcast. No warranty, guarantee or representation is to be taken and you cannot reproduce it in any way. Every persons financial or investment situation is different and you must consider your own circumstances before undertaking any investment and be sure to obtain independent advice. Australian Property Scout Pty Ltd | License Number: 10094798 | ABN: 64 638 266 369