The year 2020 has flown by fast, but we found some time to interview Tristan Markulija, the founder and principal property adviser at Crest Property Investments.
Here were a few questions we asked:
What influenced you to create Crest Property Investments?
I spent nearly 15 years working in the financial planning industry. I have always found it satisfying to help people better their financial situation. Over the years I found a close connection with investing in direct property and felt I could help more Australians learn how to commence a property portfolio that was both rewarding and sustainable.
Rather than helping a vendor sell their property, I felt buyers lacked access to a professional service that helped them buy the right property. This contributed to my decision to create a buyers advocacy known as Crest Property Investments.
Why do you specialise in helping buyers purchase brand new and off the plan property?
When buying property, most successful investors purchase to own long term. As a property ages it requires more maintenance and over time starts to become outdated.
When buying a brand new or off the plan property you get to take advantage of its longevity. It lasts longer, looks modern and takes greater interests from tenants to occupy. The tax benefits and warranties provided make it a great investment.
Buying an old property also has its benefits, but it lacks many opportunities that a new property provides, particularly the need to maintain it for your tenant.
What sort of academic background do you have?
Prior to real estate, I completed a number of higher education courses. I first completed a dual course, a Bachelor of Business and an Advance Diploma in Accounting. I later finished a Diploma and Advanced Diploma in Financial Planning, then later complimented this with educating myself in specialised areas such direct shares and self managed super funds to name a few.
I additionally completed a Diploma in Finance (Mortgage Broking) and some other short courses that gave me a clear understanding around borrowing to invest in property.
My previous education and experiences provides me with a clear understanding on how to approach people and property investment. Not everyone thinks and feels the same way I but no one wants to lose money.
What motivates you each day?
My family is a significant influence in motivating me in all facets of life. Having a boutique team at Crest Property Investments has kept me enthusiastic as I see the team equally passionate to property investment. We really approach our work with pride, but maintain an informal office environment.
I’m sure everyone asks… Which property is the best?
This is true. We all live in a property in some form. If its boarding, renting or occupying our own home. The old cliché continues to ring true. Location.. Location… Location… In my experiences, I have seen all property types enjoy some form of income and capital growth. Each property type will outperform at certain intervals, while others may underperform. Having a diversified property portfolio, (which takes time) is a great way to smooth out your returns.
It is uncommon for a property investor to only own a property for 12 months. Most will look at investing long term with the aim of eliminating the debt before retirement. Having a regular income stream through rent is one of the best forms of investment returns you’ll have. To receive a rental income every month as apposed to other investments that pay once or twice a year, really helps smooth out returns while you look to building your property portfolio.
What else do you do in your spare time?
I am a fitness enthusiast. I train and compete in CrossFit. I think function fitness is so good for you. I really enjoy the olympic lifting and gymnastics components, but most of all I love the people I hang out with.
I also play regular tennis. I have been playing night tennis for a while. Nothing beats hitting a bigger winner!
Can someone else join the team at Crest Property Investments?
Absolutely. If the person has the right attitude, we are always looking for someone to join our team. I call it our team, but really we have become long life friends.
Thank you Tristan Markulija for sharing some insight to Crest Property Investments.
January 2021
