Maximising Property Investments with Mike Mortlock

In this episode of The Smart Investor Show, host Julian is joined by Mike Mortlock, Managing Director of MCG Quantity Surveyors and a leading authority on property investment and tax depreciation.Mike shares his journey, the key services his firm offers, and how he helps investors boost their returns through smart tax strategies. With fresh data and sharp analysis, he offers a clear picture of Australia’s property market—what’s happening now, what’s ahead, and where the real opportunities lie in 2024 and beyond.They also explore the often-overlooked power of depreciation schedules and why getting them right can make a big difference to your bottom line. (01:41) Mike's Early Life and Career Journey(05:37) The Birth and Growth of MCG Quantity Surveyors(07:14) Current Property Market Sentiments and Trends(17:24) Insurance and Property Protection Insights(20:42) Ensuring Compliance in Property Investments(20:54) Market Predictions for 2025(21:20) Current Trends in Perth and Brisbane(22:25) Victoria's Property Market Dynamics(25:52) The Role of Buyer's Agents(31:49) Depreciation Schedules and Missed DeductionsAbout Mike:Mike Mortlock, a distinguished leader in tax depreciation, co-founded MCG Quantity Surveyors with Marty Sadlier. Their journey from humble beginnings in 2011 to being featured in the AFR's Fast 100 in 2018 demonstrates their significant impact on the industry. As a seasoned consultant, Mike has worked with top-tier firms like McDonald's, Stockland, and Hilton Hotels, delivering comprehensive depreciation schedules across various property types. His expertise has also led him to be a vital member of the advisory board for the Australian Institute of Quantity Surveyors, shaping industry standards.Recognised as a top 50 thought leader by Elite Agent Magazine, Mike's insights on investment trends, including remote investing and market dynamics, have made him a respected voice in real estate. He hosts the Geared for Growth Property Investing Podcast and co-hosts the Property Trio podcast, emphasising his dedication to investor education.Mike's contributions extend to regular appearances on TV and in publications like the Australian Financial Review and Elite Agent, where he shares his passion for maximising client benefits through tax depreciation. As a board member of the Property Investment Professionals of Australia (PIPA), he advocates for the interests of investment professionals and investors, underscoring his commitment to the real estate sector.Connect with Mike:Visit the website: https://www.mcgqs.com.au/Follow on Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/mcgquantitysurveyorsFollow on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/mcgquantitysurveyorsFollow on LinkedIn:https://au.linkedin.com/company/mcg-quantity-surveyors About Julian:Julian Khursigara is the CEO of Search Party Property, a Sydney-based buyers agency helping busy professionals build sustainable investment portfolios with clarity and confidence. With over two decades in customer experience and loyalty across the Asia-Pacific region, Julian brings a sharp, data-driven lens to property investing. What began as a personal passion quickly became a mission—to close the knowledge gap and empower everyday Australians to invest smarter. In recognition of this impact, Search Party Property was named a Finalist for Buyers Agency of the Year, and Julian a Finalist for Buyers Agent of the Year at the 2025 REB Awards.As host of Invest Smarter Grow Faster, Julian draws on his own investing journey and years of strategic insights to demystify property for time-poor professionals. His philosophy is simple: life’s no dress rehearsal, and smart property decisions today create the freedom to choose tomorrow. Through the show, he shares real-world lessons, expert conversations, and proven strategies to help listeners take control of their financial future—one property at a time.  Connect with Julian:Visit the website: https://searchpartyproperty.com.au/ Follow Julian on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/buyersagent-sydney-brisbane-melbourne-adelaide-perth/ Follow Julian on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliankhursigara_buyersagent/ Follow Julian on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/investmentpropertybuyersagent/ Follow Julian on Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@julian_buyersagent Subscribe to Julian Khursigara YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@juliankhursigara_buyersagent If you’d like a personalised review of your financial situation, help setting clear investment goals, and a data-driven strategy to guide your property journey—including insights into high-growth areas and a roadmap to financial freedom—book a time with Julian here: https://calendly.com/julian_spp/45min DisclaimerInvest Smarter Grow Faster provides general information and commentary about property, finance, and investing. It does not constitute financial, legal, tax, or investment advice tailored to your personal circumstances. Before making any financial decisions, you should seek professional advice from a qualified adviser.While we aim for accuracy and quality, we cannot guarantee all information is complete, up-to-date, or free from errors. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results.