Starting with nothing: How to build a property portfolio from scratch in a tough market

Starting a portfolio in today's market takes more than buying the right property, with strategy, cash flow, and borrowing power shaping how far investors can go.

On The Smart Property Investment Show, deputy editor Emilie Lauer is joined by Josh Crealy, founder of LEVR, to discuss how investors can start building a property portfolio from scratch in a tougher market.

Crealy explains why investors need to look beyond Australia's headline market and understand the different cycles playing out across capital cities, particularly when working with a limited borrowing capacity.

The pair discuss why lower-priced properties remain resilient, with affordability pressures pushing demand into cheaper parts of the market and creating opportunities for investors who understand where that demand is heading.

Crealy shares why he still sees opportunity in Melbourne, pointing to population growth, falling dwelling supply, and rising rents, while established units are also gaining appeal as investors place greater emphasis on cash flow and borrowing capacity.

The conversation also explores the importance of having the right team, structuring investments correctly and using equity and refinancing strategically, while Crealy warns against taking on high-risk developments too early in a portfolio-building journey.

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