Apparently Mike Meyers had the character of Austin Powers kicking around in his head for years. After a while, it got so bad, he couldn’t drop it. At breakfast, at the shops, on the phone to his friends, he had that stupid Brit-pop accent and corny lines going 24/7.
Eventually his wife cracked the shits and said if you don’t do something with that character, I’m leaving.
And so the first Austin Powers movie was born.
These blogs kind of have a similar back-story. My wife said, “If we spend one more breakfast talking about affordability indexes, I’m leaving.”
And so the blogs were born.
I have a passion for all things property. I love talking about it. And when I started, it was just a bit of fun – a passion project.
But then I found I just had so much I wanted to say, and so it became a regular gig.
But then I realised I was getting a lot out of the discipline that comes with writing on a topic regularly. All the reading I was doing, all the stats I was pouring through, I found I needed to get extra systematic with it if I was to turn it into a regular blog.
And I found the commitment to weekly deadlines made me extra hungry and curious – to explore leads and lines of thought that I might never have followed through on in the past.
As a result, I found my picture of the property market – and the economy in general – was taking on greater and greater definition. I became a better investor as a result.
(And I could recommend this process to all serious investors. Explaining something to someone really pushes your understanding of the topic. It’s hard work, but you can feel the knowledge seeping into your bones.)
I also saw it as a way to open up a dialogue with the Knowledge Source community, and as a way for me to give something of value to the people on the wealth journey with us.
And as it went on, I realised that a lot of my investment philosophy and read on the property market came from my particular view of the world. And so I felt a need to explain how I thought the economy worked and what the bigger picture was.
That sometimes morphed into rants and tirades against what I saw as the madnesses and injustices of the world – taxation regimes, planning laws, banks, minor celebrities. I’ve always had a bit of a caped-crusader streak in me.
And I also saw that knowledge won’t get you very far if you don’t have the right mindset. And so with No BS Friday’s I set out to put down on paper what I thought the fundamental principals of success were. Again, that’s been a journey of learning that I think could go on forever.
Anyway, four years down the track, I’ve now written over 250 articles. The odd email every now and then when I felt like it has become a solid commitment to 3 articles a week…
There was even a point there when I was thinking of going daily with it. (I know. Totally nuts.)
And if I take a week off, my inbox lights up with people wanting to know what’s happened, and where their Friday missive has ended up… Get of your arse Giaan and get back to the computer…
gheez. You’d think people were paying for it or something.
… anyway, it all started to feel a bit like a monster that’d gotten out of control.
So what’s with the this-is-your-life retrospective?
Well, I’m reflecting on all this for 3 reasons.
First up, I want to say thanks for taking the time to read these things, and dropping in your thoughts from time to time. I pay attention. I do like read everything and watch what’s being said, track what web pages you open up afterwards….
(I’m telling ASIO.)
Second, I’m interested in getting some genuine feedback.
How have the Knowledge Source emails helped you in your investments?
What have you learned?
Are you smarter now? Do you feel better-informed?
Does the market, and the macro and micro cycles make more sense to you now?
…and ultimately did you make money in real estate in the last 4 years? Did these messages help you become a better investor??
Post you comments here… Any feedback is gratefully accepted. Even if you feel you need to unload… I can take it.
(Important side note: – by saying nice things or bad stuff about me, and posting your comments, you are giving me permission to use them to put them on other pages on my site, like the testimonials sections, and to share them with my world – like my mum and my aunty Stavroula in Greece… you cool with that?)
Thirdly, I'm think of dialling it back to one a week.
It’s just an idea, but the truth of it is I’m pretty flat out with my own investments, business opportunities, family life, personal dreams, this cancer vaccine I’m working on in my spare time…
The truth is there’s only so much time I can spend staring at this little laptop screen…
It’s just a thought, but by the time I fact-check all my sources, find the right graph, and then write it all up, some posts take 6 hours to pull together!
That’s almost two days of my work week. Given I’m normally too drunk to work by Friday lunchtime, it’s a substantial chunk of my productive time.
And there are a few other projects that are glittering on the horizon. I can never sit still for long.
Anyway, if you’ve gotten anything out of these blogs, I’d love to hear it. I do read everything and take it on board. (I know, get a life Giaan!)
But seriously, drop us your thoughts. It’d be greatly appreciated.
Wishing you all great success.
Eric says
I like reading them Thanks, but generally find that they just help to reinforce the facts I have already analised.
What I would like to find out more about is an expert base of knowledge we can tap into.
A good example, I have watched two commercial developments go up over the past few years where the land was sub $1M and the tilt up cement building could not have cost much more. These properties were then leased to long term clients and generated over $450k annual rental return.
I’d love to talk to the people that put those deals together becaus eit doenst look like it was the property but rather the negotiation of the lease that was the deal.
Any way just putting something out there because your basically preaching to the quire!
Thanks.
Tim says
Hi JG,
I have enjoyed your letters, often they make me laugh. I enjoy your perspective. Importantly they help me understand the big picture from an investor’s mindset and how that is achieved. I have not taken action with property as I am focused on the financial markets. I do find many letters hard to keep up with and would like just 1 a week. Thanks.
Graeme says
Love your articles Jon… Always make me think much deeper than I would without them. BUT you do need a life and I have been wondering for some time how you do it and keep on doing it. Once a week is better than you burning out and us getting none. So good on you for realising that you need to look after you.
I am looking at opening an office in Melb… in Docklands to be specific so if and when I do I’d love to buy you lunch to say thanks. Obviously not on a Frid…
Deanne says
Jon – love your sharing, your insights, your knowledge and yes sometimes a bit of a soapbox rant. I like your genuine, heartfelt style in your writing. I don’t always agree but I respect your commitment to telling the truth as you see it. I like No BS Friday – it’s part of MY Friday but I don’t need you visiting more than once a week. It’s like weekly family dinner night – love doing it, but once is enough! Focus on your other stuff – it’s bound to make BS Friday’s more interesting and informative. Cheers, Deanne
Nev Stone says
I appreciate the tone of irreverence while still dealing with the serious big issues. I also appreciate that you have stats to back your beliefs.
It is nice to have an experienced voice talking away from the sensationalising media articles that focus on capturing attention regardless of accuracy. I am NOT interested in hearing reactive rubbish, but want a sensible analysis. It may only be your opinion, however I value your observations and the observations of some other trusted advisors to give me good information about the choices I make.
One letter a week is ample (so you can cut down on your workload), just don’t skimp on the quality!
Keep up the great work!
Noel says
Hi JG,
I normally read all your emails. What disturbs me is all the so called property experts that are still pushing American property.I’m invested in the market over there and spend up to 5 months of the year there. My advise is get out before its to late. A lot of people have no idea of the problems they will face when trying to sell. The Australian, UK or German property markets are a safer deal. Noel
John says
Hi Noel,
can you expand on that thought? US property (i’m investing in Texas) versus European…
John
andrew says
Hi Jon, I like your blogs as they give me more of a truth in media context. i now really don’t pay any attention to the media any more so you have done me a favor by switching off those idiots.i cant even look at a newspaper now and I look forward to your insights. I’m on my investing journey and could see myself as a blogger in time. Once a week is probably more than enough to get your muses across.
I think more than two a week is getting too much as i feel like im overloaded now with property professionals and their insights.Im actually starting to close down some of the “infomercials “as I’m finding it info overload. Whilst you and others are finding the time hard to write this info me on the receiving end is finding it hard to find the time to read and respond. I enjoy your posts particularly over some of the others so Ill stay tuned for now.
regards
Andrew
Benny says
Like the rest, your “No BS Friday” is my fave read. You seem to find points of major interest, and drill down to depths I would have never considered. And stick with the PI too (political incorrectness – you beauty) – makes you more real, like us out here !!
hd1111 says
My first experience of Knowledge Source has been an absolute shocker. This morning I turned up to Mark Rolton’s introductory property seminar at the Novotel Brighton Beach (apparently hosted by Knowledge Source) along with a number of other people. We stood around waiting for the 9am start when Mark emerged from the conference room to inform us all that ‘they didn’t have enough people’ for the seminar to go ahead and that he was cancelling it. He then offered us a DVD and promised to pay us $50 to turn up to his seminar tomorrow at Parramatta where he would ‘help us all make money’. I’m not sure kind of numbers he was expecting but in my experience if one person shows up then that’s ‘enough people’ for the seminar to go ahead. We all gave up our time to hear what Mark had to say only to have him blatantly show how little he valued it. I’ve done a number of seminars over the years and I’ve never experienced the speaker cancelling it right on the start time with such little regard for the people in attendance. This is such poor form and has meant that I want nothing to do with either Knowledge Source or Mark Rolton.
Jarad says
That’s a pretty crap bit of behavior by Mark. They know how many people are registered well in advance so there is no excuse for that. I made quite an effort to go hear him speak once early on when knowledge source started working with him. I can’t say I felt like I got my monies worth considering the expense of getting there and the time off work.
That said, I’ve heard others speak for knowledge source and felt like it was well worth it, so it’s just the risk you take. If you live close to where one of the events is it is worth the risk.
As for what you would learn from Mark… get online and research options on the property forums and you’ll pretty much cover it.
Jarad says
I really enjoy the read and particularly the Friday blog. More than two a week is too much. I often pass on the articles around my group of investment friends and it usually causes some good discussion. We don’t always agree with you, or each other, but it’s great to have a will written and backed up perspective.
Cheers…
Russell W says
Jon I really value the ‘spin free’ viewpoint you have on both property issues and the wider economic environment. It is rare to find a rational and objective and experienced view and especially one that avoids jumping on the ‘catastrophe’ band wagon that is currently so popular with media commentators. They typically don’t look carefully at the data when composing their ‘price bubble’ headlines. That would limit the sensationalist impact they are seeking in order to sell the extra copies. I often forward your writings to my clients (fully attributed of course) – so they can get a balanced idea of the broader market and not be blown around in the breeze by populist mis-information.
If you do need to cut down a little then maybe my week would survive with only two blogs. One would seem like a starvation diet
Adam S says
Insightful, educational, humorous and entertaining. Can’t blame you Jon for considering paring it back to once per week. I always make the effort to read your blogs and will continue to do so.
Jenny Day says
Jon, I really enjoy reading Knowledge Source.Like most people I get a lot of newsletter type emails in my inbox but yours is one I look forward to reading and always do. I love your irreverent and self depreciating style and I have learned a lot about the economy and various investment strategies from that as you are generally quite objective. You mange to make a topic that can be quite zzzz inducing actually interesting to me so congratulations and thank you 🙂
caroline says
How have the Knowledge Source emails helped you in your investments?
You don’t hear from me much but I wanted to say that I appreciate your honest commitments and generous efforts in sharing your experiences, thoughts and wisdoms.
What have you learned?
To become immune to media manipulation, to become a more relaxed investor and do what’s right for me.
Are you smarter now? Do you feel better-informed?
There is always so much to learn but I do especially with regards to asset protection, doing my own due diligence rather than just accepting what the so called experts say and with my new found confidence and the help of a switched on FP, I manged to get a major bank to do things my way even though they tried to manipulate me into doing things their which of course would have cost me a lot more.
Does the market, and the macro and micro cycles make more sense to you now?
Yes
…and ultimately did you make money in real estate in
the last 4 years? Did these messages help you become a better
investor??
Happy to say I did of course there is always room for more
Ken. says
Hi Caroline, Were you being sarcastic or did I miss something.
caroline says
No I wasn’t. What makes you ask this question?
Erica Biagioni says
Jon, when my inbox gets so full it looks set to take over, your blog is never one that i delete. I find your information, common sense and obvious altruism refreshing and inspiring. Thank you for all your time and work and good luck in finding that home/passion/life balance.
ANNE MORELLI says
Bloody great Jon!! Love your stuff. But once a week would be ok, I’m sure 🙂 Take it easy old son!! I read a few other email newsletters regularly of course, but always finds yours has some REAL content. I often dont have time to read them all, so on those occasions, I just read yours. And yes, it has helped me, and also to help mentor others.I agree how helping educate others also helps oneself!! Anne Morelli
Anita says
I look forward to Friday’s newsletter more so than any others – you cut the hype surrounding often emotive subjects and bring it back to the basics in a humourous, easy to comprehend manner.
Definitely helped our investing journey, as we now look at subjects differently to what we did years ago. Your insights/opinions are appreciated!
The Once-Ponzied Kiwi says
Dang Jon – Really appreciate the Knowledge Source info’ (eternal student complex!), Thanks.
But does it all eventually lead to being ‘drunk by Friday lunchtime’ (gasp)?
You are a living example of, ‘free can be valuable’. Really going against the grain of normal thought 🙂
Bless ya Heaps.
OPK.
Steve says
While I don’t necessarily agree with everything you say, I not only respect your right to say it but also enjoy reading those comments. I must admit there are occasions I get two thirds the way in and think nope it just more of the same, but most times I read to the bitter end and enjoy every word. If you keep sendin’ ’em I will keep readin’ ’em
Robert says
Jon, you’re a sharp guy. Your commentary is great. I read it every time.
Jac says
Yes Jon please keep writing and I’ll keep reading. Im overseas most of the year and need to keep up to date with the issues/markets in Australia, you help me do that. I usually take a look at the seminars/speakers links too.
Jack says
Hi Jon
I’ve been in the property market as investor, planner,
renovator, developer, sellers agent, buyer’s agent (advocate), and quite
a few other iterations for more than 30 years. I’ve consulted to
REAgents and investor panels and assisted developers and architects in
their endeavours. I’ve even acted as “property business doctor” in a couple of
instances.
As a “professional” so called, I’m always looking to
improve my knowledge, and I read most the important commentators
ramblings, voraciously. I’ve gotta say your thoughts resonate and your
research is paramount. I appreciate it and especially the rather “black
humour” slant you approach most articles with. I was bemused recently to
see one of your blogs repeated almost word for word, by a commentator (infomercial style), without a shred of acknowledgement.
Jon,
one of my deciding factors to read or not is the amount of advertising
I’m assaulted with on a blog or information post. Is it interesting and
topical (new) information or an infomercial full of repeats of other
stuff from other commentators, or is it so basic to defy any thought or
critique? Yours is generally of the former, so thanks.
I guess
we put these things together, initially as a way to get our thoughts out
there for the good of the information flow. Perhaps we then see that we
can make a buck promoting an event or product or program, usually, or
at least at the start, from a friend’s or associated party’s business.
Unfortunately for some, as we move on, it’s for the $$$’s, rather than
the content. Sometimes our best endeavours to help a friend are let
down, by whatever gets in the way, and we perhaps look a little less to
our readers.
So far so good, especially your “no BS Friday” posts.
Generally, if you’re promoting something, then its obvious and I can
read or pass onto the next.
Keep up with it. I value your
thoughts and appreciate the work involved to produce the regular
articles. Honestly Jon, I have sometimes paraphrased them in talking
within a training environment and even chatting to clients.
Happy to chat at your convenience
Best wishes
Jack
Ps, seems we almost met a couple of times on one or other of those Port M Friday nite soirees but circumstances prevented.
jang says
Love what you write – if you were to give up one of your commitments don’t repeat don’t give up No BS Friday – they give me a great perspective on investments and – life. Alternatively to No B S Monthly and keep up the weekly insights
Yonie says
Yonie,
Tell you the truth hold on it;s not bad.
My getting into American market has been keeping me on my toes last 3 to 4 months.
I,m about to go back to an earlier blog to read as I only skimmed over it.
KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK XX
Bomber says
Simply put; I love them. Your blogs are one of very few sources of reasoned “non-fear-mongering” out there. One a week – Scarcity will only make them more sought after. See I have learnt something.
debbie roberts says
I can’t wait to start it sounds good
sam says
John,
You’re a gem. Too many journalists and writers give us more of the same top-down babble. You are someone with a keen eye for value investing, and with the talent to be able to write about it and share your ideas with others. Keep writing, and I’ll keep reading.
All the best to you and your family.
gary says
I work in the building industry and banks wont lend me money to buy a home because my pay fluctuates from year to year, is there a way with no deposit for somebody like me to get a home through your teachings?
Ken says
Hi Gary, read Mark Rolton’s Options.
gary says
Thank you Ken, but im not sure were to find that?
gary says
I don’t think it really answers my question, im starting to think that this seminar coming up will not benefit somebody like me.
GMP says
Still pretty new to reading this blog, so just starting to learn. But with my personality type, I like people to get to the point as much as possible, especially when life is so busy!
Would also like to see a new profile photo on the email that lets us see who you are!
Otherwise, love the fact you cut through the bull!
Trent says
Great reading Jon, I always look forward to receiving your blogs and really appreciate your time and expertise in creating them. Your intellect and wit has provided me with information and facts and figures I would never have known. It keeps me motivated with my real estate endeavors whilst is enjoyable and entertaining reading at the same time, much appreciated for the time you have spent on the laptop producing them.
Gary says
Every time I check my email I look forward to hearing what you have to
say and it usually ends up being a topic of discussion with friends and family.
Your column is clearly explained and underpinned with sensible logic. I suppose
I could forgive you for going back to once a week, but no less. Thanks for the
work you put in never underestimate how appreciated and thought provoking it is.
Kris says
Hi Jon,
You’re like a good friend to me.Love reading your market analysis, in depth economic updates and complex graphs delivered with humour and wit !
Yes, Knowledge Source has been very helpful to us through Phil Anderson group of property investors.
We weren’t sure how to start and with great help of our local group coordinator, we set up our own SMSF, purchased three investment properties and look forward to learn more and be independent of government pension when we retire.
Great stuff, keep it going, people need independent and intelligent information even if it arrives only once a week !
Cheers Kris
Tom says
“- – It’s a true and honest thought,
That when YOU become a teacher,
By your pupils you’ll be taught” (From “The King & I”)
Having ‘Matriculated’ and done a BSc at Uni, I was pleasantly surprised when I realised that in trying to explain the basics of mathematics to “Remedial” classes at Secondary School, I myself was coming to a deeper understanding of those basics. Prior to that, I had just blindly followed the recipes – “Put down the five and carry the one” etc.
As you say Jon, in order to convey the message effectively, you must have a thorough understanding of not only the individual facts, but also of the environment in which they have application.
On many occasions, I have written a “letter” to someone, defining my thoughts on some topic – with absolutely no intention of ever sending it! By making it clear to another, it becomes much clearer to me!
So I can understand how you find the exercise of blogging very rewarding for your own appreciation of a topic, and its place in the bigger pictures.
For quite a while, I have been wondering how you find time to do the research. Now, I realise that much of your educational product was a byproduct of your own business research. But rest assured, that is not to imply that it is of secondary importance to us. On the contrary!!!
Work took me away from my computer for nearly three months. Just as one of the above comments above also said, your blogs were among the few that were not deleted en masse, when I returned.
Most commentators have ulterior motives. So, we appreciate your blogs much more, because we know they are based in philanthropy.
Please keep kicking those holy cows in the guts and exposing the self-important manipulators of public opinion.
Kay says
Hi Jon, I have only recently started to read your blogs and I am really enjoying them and it is a big help to my understanding of what is going on in the world. I have discovered in the past few years that although nearly 60 years old and with many jobs under my belt, I did not understand money at all. I have been to a number of different seminars over the past 3 years and have learnt so much that I didn’t know that I didn’t know. I enjoy your comments because they add to my learning. thanks
Bob says
Hi John,
I have been investing in real estate for 25 years and I believe your column is the most easily to understand column from any analyst I have read from that time. Further more I find your opinions and predictions generally on the money. Property is a cycle and you understand this very well. I thoroughly enjoy reading your articles and look forward to continue reading them as we sail through this current boom cycle whilst accumulating excellent capital growth for effectively doing nothing.
Janina Murrell says
Hey Jon your blogs are great value…very insightful, very knowledgeable, very witty and entertaining!
i look forward to your No Bullshit Fridays! they are a great read! the only gripe i have is the constant barrage of advertising of the latest guest speaker —- this really takes your credibility away! TAKE NOTE! sometimes i feel like unsubscribing because of the “ads” please no more “ADS”, constant repetition serves as constant irritation. love your stories don’t taint them…keep up the great work!
cheers Nina
Jonnyacidseed says
Janina, you could view Jon’s articles the same as “fee T.V” ……..You get the show for free, as long as you put up with the adverts!…..just sayin……Jonny Gardner
Janina Murrell says
Thanks Jonnyacidseed,
I thought there was request for a ‘tell me what you really think – no holes barred’…I don’t watch commercial tv for that very reason …. Thank you JM
Joe says
I look forward to your articles. It’s one of the few emails I actually read (and I get a hundred a day!). It is very time consuming so I understand you wanting to taper off. I hope you manage to keep going perhaps less frequently. Looking forward to the next one!
Shelley Winkel says
Dear Jon,
Are you breaking up with me? Because it’s starting to feel like it. I know what you are doing. You start off with “i’m still into you, but I kind of want to hang with the boys” and next thing you are in the Greek Isles sailing Santorini and sipping ouzo.
Well Jon. it’s not good enough. When you signed up with me, it was a fiscal marriage … till death do us part, or at least until I find a means to trade out.
You see, you agreed to teach me. And I agreed to learn. That was our binding agreement. At first, ours was free trade. No mulah required. Nada. Just the joy of you watching a few lightbulbs go off in my brain and a few laughs come out. But things changed. Your “rants” inspired me to do something. I signed up for a few courses, got a friend involved, invested in education, and even did a few daring things – and you got the cut. Don’t you remember. Jon. I think I have personally funded your first born’s tuition.
But I don’t begrudge that at all, Jon.
Because in a world where media comments are blotted by media owners with a bunch of PC skirts watching on, your voice is refreshing and the courses I’ve done are so much more real than what I learned at uni. What you say is honest, and it’s straight from the hip. Sometimes it’s bang on. Sometimes I think you should have stopped at the first Friday pint. But if I’m the litmus test for dummies, then consider yourself universally understood.
Your rants are giving me a dream. An out. Some hope.
Jon, you probably didn’t’ know this about me (you always have been a little you-focused) but I also blog on the side. And yes it also takes me six hours to do a post. The difference is, I get paid. Hardly enough to fork out for one of your florid Friday lunches, but I do get paid. The other difference is — unlike you — no one cares about the pfaff (sic) that I write.
(Cue the sad scene in a blockbuster flick here). You’ve got something Jon. You have a voice. And if you need a reminder every now and then that people are listening, I hope this is it. I hope there’s enough glowing comments to shore up your confidence and beg you to stay on for the long haul.
I don’t mind us cutting down Jon. After all, we are no longer in our teens. Maybe we can do two days a week. But cutting out – that’s not on. After all, we made that pact, remember? For better or worse.
Ken. says
Skim, Could you please say that in one or two lines please. That was a bit painful and boring. I hope I’m wrong and all is well. Cheers, Ken.
sanjay says
Hi Jon,
Your emails have provided quite a good insight into property investment in Australia for many of us, we regularly read your emails, in last 2 years since I started reading your emails I have done quite well in my investments
Thanks for all the hard work you are putting in to help people get ahead in life
Regards
Sanjay
Vicki says
I enjoy the straight talk and you’re a good writer. One a week is plenty
Jonnyacidseed says
Love yr work Jon. You have a great way of cutting thru the crap and delivering your views with a humorous bent. Dont blame you for cutting back to once a week. Just dont stop completely!
Keith Ward says
Jon
I really enjoy your emails. I find them insightful and full of great information. I agree with you these must take up a lot of your time, especially Friday drinking time. Taking them back to once a week will give you more time to plan your investments and I am sure your emails will be early awaited. Thank you for your efforts.
Keith
James D says
If I’m honest, I don’t read all of your emails Jon, so cutting back to once a week makes sense to me and for you. What I do read is encouraging and educative – I am situated in the country, so being able to access up to date information and ideas on property investment is a real bonus. Appreciate your passion and honesty.
Just one little correction – spelling of ‘pouring’ in above article indicates flowing over as a liquid – it should be ‘poring’ as in examining or studying closely.
Rajni says
Hi Jon It took me a while to get to understand that your emails have some substance to them!. Usually they are with some kind of marketing this or that seminar which I usually can’t attend as they are not held in Adelaide (investors mostly live on the East coast hun……?). And once I dished out the information laced with your style of humor I got hooked onto them. I wouldn’t say I’ve become a better investor due to them but certainly better informed and even now I read about 6-7 out of 10 as some are either not important or don’t make sense to me. But I appreciate your time and sharing the knowledge with us. Keep up the good work!
Paul Pinto says
Hi Jon
Your email is fantastic, thriving. I think you should become Australian senior economist. You predict the exact property market. I made some profits from realestate by your guidance.
Thanks
Paul
Malcolm says
Hi- I receive all your emails and put the tips into my own strategies- never too proud to take and action a different strategy that becomes a hybrid.
Like others, reading is essential but sometimes we all get snowed; so once a week would still be
VeryUseful.
Malcolm
Jenny Kennedy says
Hi Jon, I really enjoy your emails, but especially the NO B.S. FRIDAY ones – they are very insightful, full of commonsense and interesting. I enjoy your teaching on investment and the economy, which is helping me to learn about those topics while I am saving to be able to invest in the future. I understand that you find it difficult to do so many emails, so here’s a thought if you want to reduce to one a week: what about doing one normal email one week, the next week do the NO B.S. FRIDAY one. But whatever you do, please don’t stop altogether, what you write is just too good!
Cheers
Jenny
Owen Peters says
Hi Jon,
I really enjoy your emails, I wouldn’t say I’m a full time investor but I have a genuine strong interest in property (it excites me, weird I know). I appreciate your straight forward approach and explaining things simply so they make sense without having to read to much into it.
Your emails give me the knowledge and confidence to discuss property related matters with others and somehow I sound like I know what I’m talking about.
Keep them coming Giaan.
Owen.
Jenni Radke says
Jon – once a week is fine! I esp. enjoy No BS, and while these sometimes get more general, it’s still good to ponder life’s bigger issues and how they affect us and our decisions/biases/ relationships etc. Sharing the many feedback responses is great. As a long term investor, I guess I haven’t learned much, but it is good to keep up to date with what is happening …. your economics made simple approach is made for people like me who switch off long boring financial ‘lectures’. Last 4 years – we have lost money – but overall are fine as we have many eggs in many baskets!! Not just property. One property we sold at a loss (the reno. was a waste of time and effort) with the market downturn. Our other drama was 2 properties in the USA …. Basically the (Australian registered) company we bought through was a scam …. I started to get wise part way through the process, and we actually own the properties and have had rent – but it is all a pain in the a….! Many people did put life savings with this lot and have lost it. OK – among the good stuff there is the bad – but what has been the biggest frustration is the inability of ASIC/ Office of Fair Trading to act and stop such thieves quickly and then bring them to justice. We are all still waiting – more than 2 years for me! I first alerted ASIC to it around September 2012 (as did a few others) and it took until about March this year to close him down (and where will he crop up next???). In that time many more people have had their financial lives ruined – and that is what really upsets me! The sad bit is, it could have been a good business – but his self-centred greed ruined it! Here we are trying to encourage people to invest in property! So – maybe this is another topic for you – what do the powers that be do to help burnt investors – or rather, why are they so useless!!!!! Same with companies not paying sub-contractors and declaring bankruptcy/insolvency and getting away with the destruction it’s caused. Hard-working Australians who are trying to do the right thing with their earnings need much better protection.
Steven Hambly says
Hi Jenni, Very interested to know if the USA property man was JKW Inc? I bought a place in Phoenix Arizona in 2012 and know for a fact I paid $20000 more than was necessary. Really bad experience all round and the rental yield is only 8% gross which is nothing like what was advertised. Almost everyone I dealt with was a grub trying to extract as much money as possible.
Lucas says
Love your work, Jon. Whatever you can do, I’ll take it.
Pete G says
Hi Jon, I think Kris said it best “Love reading your market analysis, in depth economic updates and complex graphs delivered with humour and wit !”
I have two favourite articles that I have bookmarked to re-read every now and again: One is about the cross-dressing politicians (Labour is Mum and Liberal is Dad). The other one is “Don’t manifest, just do. There is no…?”, which distilled new-age philosophy to its core. While some of your articles may take 6 hours to research, these two show insight, humour and originality that we simply don’t get from any other commentator.
I don’t s’pose you would ever consider doing a speaking tour?
Boredgirl says
I love the way you express yourself…I am currently experiencing how it’s socially acceptable to say nothing…and oh boy is it confronting to have to blend in….I love property I read, I study and no one is interested in me discussing it….so to read about a subject I love in a open witted manner is refreshing….thank you
Helen says
Hi Jon, Another Friday another giggle! Thank you 🙂 Yep life is busy (and yes Friday lunchtime drinks is the only civilised MO). So sure we will let you ease off (a bit) – but you are a lighthouse now so you have to keep the beacon shining & deliver once a week. Seriously, I’ve only been reading your blog this year and it’s kept me informed, entertained and inspired. Keep up the great work – love it !! Yiamas
Sarah says
Jon, I always read your articles “BS Friday and others” especially concerning the real estate market. I’m a real estate investor and your insights to the property market are superb!… please keep up the good work. And thank you.
Craig says
Hi Jon, don’t always have time to read the “rants” but certainly find them not only interesting but very thought provoking. Thanks.
Sowrabh Behl says
You can’t retire!! We need more No BS Fridays!!!!!
Qld says
I get a lot of emails with property rhetoric, I am property investor and registered valuer with a property economics degree, so I sign up for a lot of stuff to keep abreast, I don’t end up reading or following 99% of them, I have though enjoyed yours for quite some time now and take the time to read them through, so I say keep it up.
June says
I’m new to reading your posts Jon, and love reading your views, love your sense of humour even more. Enjoy your time off gained from cutting back, we all need to cut back but not many of us have the sense to do it. Will look forward to your once a week report 🙂
Steven Hambly says
Hi Jon,
I have been reading your posts for years which is impressive since I either ignore or unsubscribe from the majority of crap coming my way. You write very candidly and provide great information on the property market, with an element of humour which is very appealing. I would miss your posts if they disappeared entirely so think that if you just dialled it back to one a week that would be fine. You have worked hard and deserve some time for yourself.
Steve
Helena says
Ditto! I just lurk quietly, but I read and share your posts. Fewer posts is never a problem for me, (I’m sure they’ll remain gems) and surely you are ready to do other things in your life.
Chris says
Jon,
I love your aticles! I share them with all my friends, family & work colleagues. Thanks for taking the time to keep us all motivated! The news can be a real damper on Property Investing…and we are really lucky to have someone like you who cuts through all the crap!
Kind Regards,
Chris
Craig says
Hi Jon,
I am fairly new to real estate investing and I have been reading you blogs for about 12 months. In that time, your communication has helped me learn a great deal about real estate investing and life in general.
Whilst I sometimes disagree or find your views amusing, I have benefited greatly just by witnessing a different perspective to an argument. There is always more than one side or perspective to everything in life and being able to understand your viewpoint has help me reconsider and refine my own viewpoint so thank you for this.
I would be sad to see an end to your “No BS Friday” and other random updates and communique.
Regards,
Craig.
Andrew says
Hi Jon, I read each of your articles. I didn’t value your views greatly initially, however as time has gone on i’ve observed the information / trends you often discuss / predict. As they say the “proof is in the pudding”, most things you discuss seem to evolve in alignment with your thinking as opposed to many other sources that constantly get presented to us.
I sense that you write the articles with no hidden agenda which is great (this keeps them unbiased). I do now look forward to reading your articles as I greatly value your opinion. Interest rates is one thing that comes to mind, I value your opinion out of anyone else’s on where you think this is heading.
I have invested in property myself over the last few years, and I gain more confidence in what I am doing through your views in addition to other things I research look at.
I would hope that you can still find the time to pen a few articles regularly and maintain the balance with other aspects of your life. I’m sure it will keep you marriage in order if nothing else
I have no doubt many people get great value from the compilation of your thoughts.
Thanks
Andrew, Brisbane
Dennis says
Hi Jon, Have been following your blog for a few months & have been hooked on it since.
Its really insightful – not merely about property but your reflections on wealth & life.
Just want to say Thanks!
Dennis
ruthfrombrisbane says
I look forward to reading your thoughts Jon
Judith says
Hi Jon,
We all get a lot of info pushed at us over the net, most of it aimed at getting something from us. I really appreciated the time and effort put into your work and the generosity of you sharing it. (I am too lazy myself to get my brain working) You make me think and I am better informed for it. Cut back sure but don’t stop as your passion and insights is appreciated. I have not commented before and apologise because you deserve positive feedback.
Jr
Kidist Dady says
With my third degree laguage level I hardly understand few of your things but the good thing is I alway get something useful from anything. And sometime it could great sometime just few thing to learn, it depend what i and other are looking for. My advice for you is take both kinds of comment positive or negative but whatever it is you are the owner and the head of the message. If you don’t feel good first then what others say will add on it. Be true and helpful then the positive energies will add to you. One more thing please advice the big people to not hold me down.
Yours
Life is knife
sidney wiapo says
bro im yet to make my first real estate investment I am currently married going through some big changes with my marriage as well as financial. I have purchase Dymphna Boholts ultimate real eastate success hm tutoring thingo because I wanted freedom. Your rants (not all) have kept me inspired to keep going giving me knowledge and sometimes a kick up the arse.
im a carpenter and have always manufactured growth in every house I’ve bought Kiwi at heart, I live in Perth and I am aching to do my first investment deal. keep on truckin bro I do get a lot out of your head.
no bullshit
RT of Sydney says
My coffee experience isn’t complete without No BS Fridays! I love that your views are well articulated fact based and cuts through the BS and what are essentially side stories
Luke says
Agreed, I time the coffee break on Friday in expectation of reading the No BS Fridays.
Justin says
Hi Jon,
I agree you could dial it back to one a week, maybe just keep your Friday blog.
Your NO B.S Friday blog is very informative. For a few reasons:
1. A different perspective on topics which often the media are blowing to far out of proportion.
2. You holistic approach to the discussion about real estate, such as deep questions and discussion about what our goals and purpose is and ways or thoughts to maintain such focus.
3. Motivational thoughts, concepts and inspiration which lifts spirits and opens peoples ideas to different approaches unlocking the potential locked within.
4.Lastly, I really look forward to reading each Friday your next wacky installment on NO BS Friday which I rarely find predictable.
Keep on trucking
Cheers
Justin
suren says
Giaan.
Mate you deserve a break.
I do enjoy your friday rants,they are amusing, exciting, informative, and always the lighter side of investing.
Its that fact of not taking it too seriously that I really enjoy, and like reading your articles.
I would love to keep reading these at least once a week and summarise the week that has been and what to look forward to the next.
I have learnt a lot about the economy and how to drill into the graphs as you do and this has definitely improved my investing skills, I now have a lot more patience while investing, and hopefully do not make as many mistakes I have done in the past.
So, Keep spreading the word,
Thanks, grateful for your contribution to the investing world.
Someone told me we are only 2% of the population that are investors with more than 3 property in Australia. Well, if that is true we are a unique club, and we should keep each other informed of things that will affect us individually and collectively.
regards
Suren
Luke says
You got me moving on my property journey with the constant emails (which were originally forwarded by a friend). After reading them for many months in 2011, I signed up for one of the speakers courses you promote, completing a boot camp. After making an original house purchase 11 years earlier, I took hold of the reigns again, which resulted in the purchasing of 7 properties from 2012, quitting my job in the process. I have worked on property full-time since late 2013. These blogs provide incredible knowledge, and I constantly wonder why the minority of people on the blog struggle to understand how property does increase your wealth when transacted correctly. The mix of property knowledge and discussions of other things in life really give a great balance. Especially loved the blog (re: Steve Jobs) about how property/investment isn’t the passion, but will give the ability to do what you want, when you want. I look forward to reading future blogs, wishing this was taught at school #InvestmentEducation
Ben says
Hi Jon,
I’ve been reading your blogs for years. It is very hard to find information that is true, dependable, and honest. My favourite article was the “What is your number” post you wrote very early in these blogs. While it was general in nature it inspired me to go and buy my next property, and more importantly to get serious about putting a real target in place. I’ve been acting on that plan daily since, and each post you write reminds me of it.
I’ve personally got a lot from reading your articles and look forward to finding it in my inbox every time. I know anything can become bouring after doing it for 4yrs, but I hope you keep it up for a while longer…!
Good luck with your future plans, whatever they are…
Donna says
Hi Jon,
I love getting your NO BS Fridays. Other email blogs I subscribe to always seem to say the same old thing and eventually they get deleted, unsubscribed. But I look forward to yours with anticipation as I never know what you are about to reveal. I find in this fast paced world, the news and media are constantly bombarding us with information including that of the economy, most of which is old or has a hidden agenda to impress a belief on to the public as to what is happening. And while we focus on that, what is really going on we can be totally oblivious to. Your big picture thinking and high perception just oozes out of your blogs. And I love your cheeky style. An entertainer and an educator roled into one.
Whilst I haven’t purchased any property since reading your blogs (5 months), you keep my eyes and mind open. It is only a matter of time before I invest again and when I do I’ll be so the much wiser compared to the other times.
Thankyou for all those hours! 😉
Schwartzy says
Hi John,
Just wanted to say how much I enjoy reading your blogs. I have subscribed to at least a dozen newsletters etc and yours is the only one I still read.
What I find sets you apart is that you don’t just talk out your backside like a lot of others do. You say here is a graph, this is what it means an this is what we can infer from it. It’s a very scientific approach. As long as you keep writing, I’ll keep reading. Thanks for all you work!!
Josh
Reza Layeghi says
Giaan
I must say that you were one of the few people that I spent a bit of time reading your materials and somewhat I found them educational specially in the field of property. Many things you said open the way of rational thinking about some matters which i had no idea about them. Opened the way to see things more clearly.
Thank you mate
I wish the best of the bests for you in life and in money.
Kindest regards
Reza
An Iranian/ Australian ex-pat from Sydney.
Joe Sacca says
Hi Jon, I enjoy reading your emails they come straight from the heart and come from years of experience with you dealing in property, so you know what you are talking about. This is much different than following the media which usually means they are reporting things to create headlines and most of these people do not own investment properties or aren’t wealthy so I think they talk a whole lot of rubbish and mislead investors.
So, keep up the good work Jon.
Rowan says
Hi Jon
I reckon you make plenty of sense and are pretty smart as to your thinking… it makes for good reading. Keep up the good work, but don’t kill yourself. I never delete your messages…. keeping them for reference material.
Tony says
I think once a week is fine but its important that you don’t loose your passion and don’t stop writing, as your blog is the only one I actually read on a weekly basis.
All credit to you, I have definitely been better informed since reading your updates and caught your passion and from being almost broke with 50k to our name as a result of investments lost to the GFC, we moved in with the in laws, saved and saved. Now we have an investment property purchased at the bottom of the cycle with a great rental return.
We didn’t expect to travel for many years due to the finance situation, but I’m writing this reply from a balcony overlooking Positano in Italy. We have done more traveling this year than the 5 years prior.
Thanks so much for sharing your passion.
Tony
Jane says
Hi Jon, Thank you for your blog .I do appreciate your comments which always cause me to think and evaluate and measure what I’m thinking. all the best to you.
Michael says
JG, I wonder if you have seen the U-Tube Doco ” The Biggest Scam In The History Of Mankind” regarding the financial system we have in the world today and the fact that currency is created out of nothing and the risk of carrying debt
What are your thoughts?
len welsh says
g,day jon. read your emails every week , go have a break pal , you need it , ONE THING, wish i had the no how that you have , would love to have a go at it but , have not got the skills to do it , I NEED A GOOD MENTORE TO STEER ME ON THE PATH ,TO GOOD WEALTH AND HAPPYNESS , , look forward to your blogs , chow len
Bea says
Hi Jon,
Thank you for your informative, intelligent, reliable, inspirational and full of humour and common sense posts. Thank you for your hard work to keep them coming every week. You have helped me to filter through the sea of information in the media and I really appreciate your view on investing in real estate and your interpretation of varius current events. I do understand that you want to cut back but I would love to have your no BS Friday articles. You keep so many of us motivated. Please continue if you can.
Many thanks,
Bea
Peter says
Is it cheaper to rent than buy . If someone is prepared to make three per cent . And pay tax why not put the money in the market . Which over fifteen years rises faster. And no worries . You can negatively gear the same way ..peter
Ken. says
Hi Jon, I always read your posts and often all the replies you get. It’s a bit hard to say anything different to all the nice replies you get. So don’t think I don’t appreciate your blogs. I do, quite often get a bit pissed off with some of the idiots that don’t appreciate your posts, especially the ones who think they sound more qualified than anyone else, and wonder why they can’t keep their crap to themselves. Keep sending your stuff as I have great interest in what you say. I’m not a good writer so I try not to bore anyone as newspapers do with their bullshit headlines. I guess it’s a bit like calling a spade a spade. Cheers, Ken.
MikeAtOz says
Jon
I don’t normally post to discussion groups although I love to read the blogs and the feedback.
But I would like to say that I find your blogs to be very entertaining and well worth my time reading. I love the insights and the real information you include.
I am grateful that you spend the time that you obviously do to research. And I find that I can take some guidance from your summaries and conclusions about the current direction of the economy. It makes sense to me.
So if you can spare the time, please keep blogging.
But take a break if you need to recharge 🙂
joe says
Hi Jon
i agree …u should limit your blog to just no BS Fridays only .With todays fast paced lifestyle… all the distractions and then the overload in emails that occupy my inbox ,I would prefer to see fewer but more pertinent topics a week.Your blogs have always been very informative and cut thru the BS and hype that the mainstrem Media provide us.
Thanks for an insightful read.Thumbs up for Friday only
Joe
Charlie says
Hi JG,
I always enjoy what you have to say.
Thanks for the time you put in.
Cheers man
Charlie
jason says
hey jon,as a recent student to mass land I find your articles very educational,I love the way you break down and explain everything with facts,proof charts etc.as a new student to real estate this info is priceless to me,as I find the coarse overwhelming.your wit and left field views on topics cracks me up and always make for an interesting read.Im also known for going on a good rant so you’re very easy to relate to.also love reading the feedback of other readers views and experiences.I’ve been wondering how you find the time to continually educate and amuse us,so let me say how much I have appreciated your insight and patient explanations of the industry as it makes me feel as though I too can achieve financial freedom and time to watch my kids grow and for them to never experience the hardships I have endured over my 43 years.I have learned more from your free information than my coarse of which I paid thousands of dollars that I couldn’t afford.you also would receive very little reward for your time a bit like a chef working their ass off for the occasional comment of”compliments to the chef” big woop,show me the money!so take a break by all means but know that you are greatly appreciated and sorry for my delayed comment,hope you get it.
Paul says
This is the first time I have blogged any where, ever.Your weekly posts are just great,optimistic,intelligent ,research based,and downright funny sometimes.I wish you well, how you spend your time is your business and yours alone.The time and massive effort that you have put into all your postings and blogs to date is incredible. I am positive that it all has been received well by myself and many others.I have bought a couple of property’s in the last couple of years and now I have 8 .I have done real well, but I have been at it a long time. A word of encouragement is never misplaced.Keep up the great work.If your feeling tired have a rest.No one can blame you as it is very well deserved.Thanks again great job Paul
John Crawley says
Hi Jon,
You have put in a mighty effort and deserve time to yourself. Your blogs have always been informative, educational, amusing and interesting. I wish you all the success you so richly deserve and hope that you find the time to write an ocassional blog to keep us up to date with your thoughts and ideas.
Thanks,
John
Tom says
Thanks Jon, love your bloggs, and your unselfish work , have a rest buddy you deserve it. BS Friday’s is sufficient enough..
Cheers mate Tom.
Mel says
Dear Jon, I always read your blogs, I enjoy them greatly, they keep me grounded, I keep looking for ideas and your information always gives me a positive feel as to what is going on compared to the news headlines – please keep them up. Regards, Mel
Alternate... says
Jon.I stopped commenting on your blogs a while back when your bruised ego allowed you to declare somewhere along the lines of,….well..if you dont subscribe to my philosophies you can basically p off and find some other more suitable sites..It was at that stage that i realised..really…(like most ordinary folk sadly) that you would rather surround yourself with sycophants, and you really dont want counter points and opinions…true discussion..counter points.etc. I wonder how this has changed since then. I have certainly seen your blog style mature and expand…and to not now totally be underpinned by the “spruiker” image that you have had…(and perhaps deservedly?). Sadly, to deny ones inherent biases..perspectives..to attempt to hide these and to come across as altruistic and all knowing and seeing “commentator” does underpin your credibility somewhat. I grew up in a similar economic time as you, and basically believe that it did not take great investing skills to derive a fortune from real estate at that time.. (i certainly did)…..and this doesnt give one the right to proclaim ones self as a guru. Personally, I think the key to a happy life is when to get out of this narrow paradigm of investment , and to step out with the security that ones plans have created. Money and the next deal are a far cry from what life is about. So to the happiness from things philosophy. Hence it has been with interest that i read your relatively recently broadened viewpoints, and i enjoy your No BS friday rants…I certainly would be stepping back from more writings mate..get a life…Theres so much more away from the keyboard…
David Kirke says
Hi Jon, I don’t read all your posts as yes, you do write a lot so reducing the number is probably good for everyone. However it is interesting to read your articles. I guess that as a contrarian you do set yourself up if the future takes a different track and for that reason I haven’t followed your advice with hard cash into the market but I do enjoy and appreciate your work. I just hope the endless optimism you invoke doesn’t bring a whole bunch of disciples to their knees with an unexpected correction 🙂
Peter says
Hi ya
Interesting stuff with a strong positive spin always. But always too too too long with far too much anecdotal or rambling language and at least 50% more words than are either needed (to communicate your message), or wanted (by me at least) …. In fact I DON’T READ much of your stuff because it is just a drag to get through it and I believe you often obscure your message within an overabundance of words.
Keep up your work going (why not), I am not yet investing but could and I sense that your opinions draw from a vast well of experience. But maybe trial a NBS perfunctory direct approach in the delivery and writing style….. for example you could have made this request in maybe 100 words instead of the lengthy text above 75% of which is superfluous. Give it a go and if your interested I would do a few weeks work writing for you at a really good rate.
The point here is this….. many people receive inputs from a raft of sources. In my view, those that can transfer meaning and a message briefly and crisply and with impact will win the day.
Go well
Pete
Lucy says
Hi Jon, I really enjoy your articles. I have learnt so much. I am hoping to help my son who has aspergers syndrome and I didn’t know where to start. I have some cash – but no investments and your funny,honest opinions have meant the world to me. I wish you the best of the best in whatever you decide to do.
Belinda says
John,
I just love your No BS Friday posts.
You totally crack me up. It is awesome to get information on economics that doesn’t bore one to death.
I have learnt a lot and your wit keeps me interested. I do however only read the Friday post so would be all good with you getting on with other areas of your life and only posting on Friday.
Thanks for your time and energy in keeping me aware of the overarching influences in the property market.
Carlijn says
Hi Jon,
Thank you so much for your no BS Friday rants. They’ve been so inpirational. If I have a comment to make and a suggestion it’s this; I’d like to see more figures related to success of property investment. For instance; could you tell us in one paragraph what your strategy is? In order to be cash flow positive do you have a formula in mind? Like LVR under 40%, costs no more than 25% of rent, anything we can use in our own portfolio. I love the economic stats and world views on everything under the sun relating to Aussie property, but it would help if we could see some stats on the impact of negative gearing, versus positive cashflow/gearing etc.
I hope I make sense. I feel so lost at times as I find this information lacking and I’m not too confident of doing it all by myself.
mark says
Hi
This is the first time ever that i have replied to any thing. So you must be special.
Reading your articles gives me an insight into politics, finance and social reasoning that i would not normally have. I enjoy your reasoning and the way you make light of the stuffed wigs out there.
A lot of what you write confirms what i feel inside, you put a balance in the play makers games out there. I think they must feel threatened by your ability to see another side to what is being said, or what they want you to see / think.
With your reach to the general public and still growing you will be some one to be reckoned with. As long as its kept simple so we can understand it, people will talk to each other with their limited reasoning and understanding and hopefully be a bit more enlightened and informed when we next see a news article, hear a political agenda, or how a decision is reached.
regards mark
Tash Clyne says
Jon, I’ve been reading all your brilliance for almost eight years now. But a couple of months ago, almost as if something guided my hand to register for Dymphna’s one-dayer in Sydney, I signed up then and there – purely based on the integrity and good morals of your people. These qualities were blindingly obvious.
I had been stuck for those 8 years, I was rearing to go with all your knowledge, but I didn’t have like-minded people in my life to support me, and I didn’t trust any lawyers, accountants etc after a big financial loss.
After Dymphna’s day and the prospect of support and advisers I could trust, I finally understood more clearly than ever before how to put everything I’d read from both of you over those eight years into play. I have since turned my life right around from negative to positive in every way as a result. I don’t sit about worrying about my financial future anymore, I’m just focused on getting out there to secure it.
I religiously read everything I can of yours now as it is invaluable to me. I couldn’t go on without No BS Fridays! You’re banned from not writing them!! But seriously, I’ve finished beating myself up for not getting involved 8 years ago because I see now, thanks to all of you, that it just doesn’t matter, there are opportunities out there all over the place, every day.
I do hope I’m communicating how important all your hard work has been to me. You’ve done more for me than two fathers ever did and you don’t even know me! You should be awfully proud of what you have created, as I’m sure you are, but I’m also sure that it’s probably nice to be reminded sometimes too : )
God Bless you Jon!
Heartfelt Thank Yous,
Tasha Clyne, Sydney.
Elizabeth says
Hi Jon,
I want to thank you for your informative, no B.S. emails. I have used your info to improve my investment skills/strategies not realising the toll it was having on you. I think cutting back to one a week to see how you go is the answer at this stage, if you can.
Best of luck,
Elizabeth