Sharon Cullwick is a well-known figure in the New Zealand property investment community.

She’s spent 22 years involved with various Property Investors’ Associations across the country and currently she’s president of the Hawke’s Bay Property Investors’ Association.

She now manages a lifestyle block and takes care of 50 baby cows each year, something she could not have imagined doing without the income generated from her property investments.

Here’s how Sharon used her entrepreneurial spirit to build a portfolio big enough to support her lifestyle dream.

How Did You Start?

Sharon says her journey into property investment began in an unexpected place … Australia.

While watching a television show she was inspired by a forklift driver who owned five properties on a modest salary. Despite earning more than him, Sharon realised she had no assets to her name, and this led her to study property investment.

Before Sharon’s foray into property, she had an entrepreneurial spirit from a young age. At 15 she had several businesses, including a successful venture selling hand-spun, hand-knitted jerseys. By hiring outside contractors, she scaled her business and sold her products through a shop in Manawatu, catering to university students.

And this early experience in business likely laid the foundation for her later success in property investment.

How Many Properties?

Today, Sharon owns three titles, encompassing six houses. This is on top of the lifestyle block where she lives.

Although her portfolio was as large as nine properties, she downsized following a divorce. Despite this, she has maintained a solid investment strategy, focusing on multi-income properties which she believes offer better yields and financial stability.

Her preference for multi-income properties stems from their potential for higher yields and financial security. She says by having two properties on one title, she can mitigate the risk of vacancies.

She also points out these properties can still achieve good capital growth despite the perception they may only appeal to investors.

The Strategy

Sharon’s initial strategy was to ensure her rental income was double the property’s purchase price, although this formula is difficult to achieve in today’s market.

Over the years her strategy has evolved, particularly after downsizing her portfolio. Sharon has shifted from actively expanding her portfolio to maintaining and managing her existing properties.

She now prioritises paying off loans and consolidating her financial position. This shift reflects her current lifestyle, where she enjoys the freedom and responsibility of managing her land and animals.

Top Tips

Sharon says don’t overextend yourself by purchasing expensive properties right away. Start with something affordable, like a two-bedroom unit. This way you can avoid being saddled with too much debt from the get-go.

This conservative approach allows for more financial flexibility, particularly when life circumstances change, such as starting a family. Her advice to new investors is grounded in her own experiences: start small, leverage wisely, and always be prepared to adapt your strategy to changing circumstances.

Next Steps

Sharon’s experience might resonate with many investors. If you’re wanting to use property to create a different future lifestyle for yourself, consider booking a Portfolio Planning Session with us at Opes Partners.

Disclaimer: Just remember this is a column in a magazine, going out to thousands of people. It’s not personal financial advice. But, it is an example of what can be achieved with personalised financial advice. If you are wanting to book a consultation, email us through the website at https://www.opespartners.co.nz