Starting a property investment journey can feel daunting, especially for young people navigating today’s market. However, Allan Cuevas, founder of Foundation Property and a passionate advocate for first-time investors, believes there’s no better time to get started. In a recent episode of the For the Property Investor podcast, Allan shared his unconventional path into real estate and the strategies he uses to help young investors build wealth.
From Teaching in Budapest to Real Estate in Melbourne
Allan’s journey into real estate was far from traditional. Living in Budapest and working as an English teacher, Allan stumbled upon Robert Kiyosaki’s Rich Dad, Poor Dad, a book that would change his life. “I was hooked,” Allan recalls. “I got obsessed with passive income and the idea of financial freedom.”
With no formal background in real estate, Allan began managing properties in Budapest for friends, turning underperforming rentals into profitable investments. This hands-on experience sparked his passion for real estate, eventually leading him back to Australia, where he transitioned into the property investment world.
Helping Young Investors Get Ahead
Now based in Melbourne, Allan focuses on helping younger clients take their first steps in property investment. “We tend to attract a lot of younger clients, many of them in their early 20s, who want to start building wealth early,” Allan explains. Contrary to media reports suggesting that young people are being priced out of the market, Allan sees a shift. “Younger people are becoming more savvy with money. They don’t just want to buy a house to live in for 30 years—they want to invest smartly and build a portfolio.”
Finding the Right Markets
Allan’s approach to property investment is strategic and data-driven. He focuses on identifying markets that offer immediate growth potential, allowing investors to quickly build equity and expand their portfolios. “We look at places like Perth, Townsville, and northern Adelaide—markets that are moving right now,” Allan notes. These areas offer strong rental yields and the potential for rapid capital growth, making them ideal for young investors looking to build wealth quickly.
The Power of Rentvesting
For many of Allan’s clients, the idea of rentvesting—renting where they live while investing in more affordable markets—makes sense. “Younger clients often don’t have roots yet, so they don’t mind renting. But they want to be smart with their money and start building a portfolio,” Allan explains. This approach allows them to take advantage of lower entry points and higher returns in markets outside of major cities like Melbourne and Sydney.
Advice for Aspiring Investors
Allan’s message to young people is clear: stop waiting and start planning. “The hardest part is getting into the market, but once you’re in, everything else follows,” he advises. His top tip? Set aside time to plan and reflect on your goals. “Take an hour, sit down, and write out what you want in life. Once you’ve got a clear picture, start looking at ways to get there—whether it’s through improving your income, researching the market, or working with a buyers agent.”