Tracy Stevenson

The starting point

At the start, the thinking was simple: buy, renovate, add value, and move on. That works for a while, but it does not answer the real question of what retirement will require, or whether the next decision gets you there.

The turning point

The shift came when the numbers were put in front of her in a wealth plan and strategy session. A move into commercial, which had felt out of reach, suddenly looked possible; the discussion changed from what seemed affordable to what would support the long-term plan.

What changed

Since then, the portfolio has started to reflect that plan, including 37 Kelly Street, Harlaxton, bought for about $385,500 and later valued at $420,000. She now has a clearer path from residential holdings in places like Balcatta toward the income profile she wants later in life.