At just 22, Simon Hicks bought his first investment property, and his portfolio has grown steadily ever since. Louise Hegarty talks to a young man with a big net worth and an even bigger plan.

“It was an opportunity that just really needed to be jumped on,” says Simon of his first investment property. “It was back in 2009 when the first home buyer’s grants were all in place, and a good property at a good price came up.” Buying off the plan meant Simon received the maximum grants, and maximum tax depreciation benefits for years to come. “There’s all this money if you know where to look,” he says, with a quiet wisdom well beyond his years.

No stranger to the market, Simon works in the property development industry and comes from a family of investors. “My father taught me a lot, he used to explain what he was doing with his portfolio, and I guess I’ve always been interested.” Simon also has the benefit of a degree in Property and Construction from the University of Melbourne, some of which was attained in Sweden. “I’m a bit of a nerd sometimes, I have a definite interest and even check out the ATO website.” Continue reading →