Show Notes
Most people say property is too hard in 2026.
But what if the real problem is not the market… it’s your decisions?
In this episode of Future Proof Property, Dawn sits down with Harley Giddings (Property With Harley) to break down exactly how he built a multi-property portfolio before 25.
We go deep into borrowing power, debt traps, guarantor loans, and the real mindset required to get ahead in today’s market.
This is not a theory.
This is real strategy, real numbers, and real sacrifices.
We cover: How Harley bought 4 properties before 25
Why car loans and credit cards destroy borrowing power
The truth about guarantor loans and how to use them safely
Why most people stay stuck financially despite earning more
The role of a second job in accelerating your portfolio
How to structure your first property the right way
Why chasing validation keeps people broke
The biggest mistakes investors make early
Why mindset, discipline, and consistency matter more than timing
How to build a long-term plan that actually compounds
If you are in your 20s or 30s and want to get into property, this episode will change how you think.
This is about playing the long game.
Chapters 00:00 Borrowing Power vs Lifestyle Choices 00:49 Meet Harley Giddings01:41 From Small Town to 4 Properties 03:20 Is It Really Hard to Buy Property in 2026? 05:44 Guarantor Loans Explained 08:29 How to Remove a Guarantor 09:46 Timing the Market vs Taking Action 11:14 Why Harley Is Selling One Property 12:22 Portfolio Breakdown (Perth, Bunbury, Townsville) 13:49 Maintenance and Being a Good Landlord 15:05 Investing Plans for 2026 16:29 Mistakes Investors Make Early 18:45 Why Strategy Matters More Than Budget 19:42 Questions to Ask Your Broker 21:02 Delayed Gratification vs Looking Rich 22:01 Social Media and Validation 24:57 Finding Your “Why” 28:44 Increasing Borrowing Power 30:33 Car Loans, Credit Cards and Afterpay 32:10 Using a Second Job Strategically 33:54 Why Harley Became a Broker 37:21 Broker Commissions and Ethics 39:23 Long-Term Plan: Residential to Commercial 42:02 Why Growth Beats Cash Flow Early 43:23 Units, Townhouses and Entry Strategies 45:44 Where Investors Are Buying Now 49:34 What To Do If You Feel Stuck 51:22 Budgeting and Saving Tips 54:43 Lifestyle vs Wealth 56:56 Work, Travel and Balance 58:15 Advice to Your Younger Self
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