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  • #273: Mastering the Art of Intuitive Property Inspection - Using Your Sixth Sense to Spot Invisible Warning Signs
    2024/09/02
    Got a question for the trio? https://forms.zohopublic.com/propertyplanningaustralia/form/GotaquestionforthePropertyTrio/formperma/zYCQAxzE_24CVlDafP1ozyzwtmB-8m1iCNtCTgDvHXM

    This week our topic comes from Cate. Dave kicks off the episode by delving into the concept of a "sixth sense", and questions the science behind it. From pattern recognition experience, to subconscious processing, and a study called heuristics, Dave questions the notion of this ability.

    "When do your spidey senses start to ring alarm bells?" Cate steps through some of the signs that she has picked up on when canvasing a neighbourhood or a neighbouring property. What are the subtle signs? And what should buyers keep an eye out for? Cate shares some real life experiences in this gripping episode.

    Safety is paramount, and the Trio talked together about some of her hair-raising, less than pleasant inspections. Having safety protocols in place is essential for all buyers, including buyer's agents.

    When else do you get a sense of an issue with a dwelling? Being familiar with issues such as illegal conversions, works that have been conducted without permits, and questionable extensions/renovations that may not have insurance cover is a valuable accrued experience. How does Cate tackle some of these issues to determine whether a property is worth pursuing or not?

    Mike delves into vendor behaviours and vendor personalities. How can an experienced person determine a potentially difficult vendor? And what insights can buyers apply to get a better idea of what type of vendor could be on the other side of the transaction. Cate shares some of her past actions when it comes to protecting buyers from vendors who attempt to do the wrong thing. One of her stories includes a vendor who swapped out good appliances for inferior appliances.

    Contract inclusions and documentation is critical. Strata managers are another key person in the due diligence steps for a strata property, but gleaning information is not always easy. However, there are some warning bells that buyers should be aware of. Sometimes issues can stem from legal representatives that aren't responsive or throw other stressful challenges into the mix. Cate steps through some of the tell-tale signs and things to look out for.

    And what about sinister issues? The Trio unpack some of the more spooky elements that can sometimes strike in a property.

    ..... and our gold nuggets!

    Mike Mortlock's gold nugget: Mike shares a good tip he remembered about meeting the neighbours if in any doubt.

    Cate Bakos's gold nugget: "If it's an important thing, and it's been agreed to, get it in writing. And if the other person is reluctant to sign, there is your warning bell.

    Show notes: https://www.propertytrio.com.au/2024/09/02/intuitive-property-inspection-sixth-sense/
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    45 分
  • #272: How Proximity to the CBD Across 10km Rings Impact Property Yields, Contrasting Houses vs. Units & the Regions
    2024/08/26
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    This week our topic comes from a research report commissioned by Mike’s business MCG Quantity Surveyors, and it focussed on how yields change per city as distance from the centre of the town or CBD increases, so there’s a lot to unpack here. We often hear people quoting about buying within say 10, 20 or 30kms from the CBD, but Dave unpacks the factors that also need to be taken into account with this consideration, and Cate questions whether commute times are the more important measure.

    But how do units and house metrics differ when it comes to distance from CBD? Rental yields are one interesting metric that MCG's study has focused on in each capital city. There is one city that bucks the trend... and it's Melbourne. Melbourne's unit rental yields decrease as the distance from CBD increases. What is driving this? Could it be buyer attitudes towards outer ring locations? Is infrastructure the problem? Or is Melbourne's landscape physically different? Tune in to find out. A

    Affordable and aspirational are two very different drivers. Cate and Dave ponder how our urban make up differs around our capital cities. In particular, Dave cites some interesting student population statistics. The results may surprise our listeners!

    Regional areas were also canvased in the study and some of the drivers for double-digit yields are explained by Mike, and he cautions those investors who target rental yields without understanding the other aspects of investment strategy and asset selection.

    The Trio take a trip around Australia and uncover some of the highest rental yields across the nation. Cate and Dave agree on the importance of looking beyond the rental yields. Conducting thorough due diligence is essential for any investment area.

    "The study has essentially confirmed our thoughts that regions are higher yielding than cities and the super-yields are often associated with mining and the like. So getting back to these concentric rings of distance from the CBD. What do we think the strengths and weaknesses of an arbitrary division like that is for investors?"

    The Trio loved bringing this episode to life and MCG Quantity Surveying have provided the report for listeners to access. We've saved it in our show notes and we hope our listeners enjoy digesting it.

    ..... and our gold nuggets! Cate Bakos's gold nugget: It's integral for investors to know what their purpose is for investing. Different life stages and different retirement strategies could shine a spotlight on yield.

    David Johnston's gold nugget: "That's a great one Cate. I might just double down on that!"

    Mike Mortlock's gold nugget: Mike likes the fact that they took a metric that is often used, and demonstrated that research is not always valuable to investors. Yield is not everything, it's just one part of the puzzle.

    Show notes: https://www.propertytrio.com.au/2024/08/26/proximity-to-cbd-across-10km-rings-impact/
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    42 分
  • #271: Market Update July 24 – Adelaide Closing in on Melbourne’s Median, Investors Return in Force & Renters See Relief as Growth Slows
    2024/08/19
    Got a question for the trio? https://forms.zohopublic.com/propertyplanningaustralia/form/GotaquestionforthePropertyTrio/formperma/zYCQAxzE_24CVlDafP1ozyzwtmB-8m1iCNtCTgDvHXM

    Mike kicks off this episode, and the Trio reminisce about Pete Koulizos's special place in the history of the show as they marvel at Adelaide's stellar growth. How sustainable do they think the City of Church's continued growth is?

    Dave references the quartile performance breakdowns, and the possible leading indicators when it comes to capital city growth cycles. The softening of the higher priced quartile of the market is important to note.

    The market sentiment is currently hinging on interest rates and the possibility of a rate cut, and Cate canvases the challenges associated with this, and in particular, her local market. Despite the heightened listing activity, interstate investor interest is buffering Melbourne's price falls. The difference between the heated markets and the softer markets at the coal face boils down to the sense of urgency. Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth are plagued with tough buying conditions, while other softer markets are experiencing longer days on market, more indecision and relaxed competition.

    The chart illustrating the onset of COVID in March 2020 relative to peak levels attracts some attention and the Trio consider the growth drivers, inhibitors and obvious reasons for the vast differential in growth figures.

    Considering that during this time, three cities that have delivered between 64%-70%, contrasted to 10.6% and 28.7% in Melbourne and Sydney, respectively is fascinating. How important is timing, and can we pick a market peak and trough?

    The rate of rental growth is the smallest monthly rise since August 2020 and some markets are exhibiting rental drops. It's fair to say that rental movement appears to be plateauing now. Cate reminds listeners about the seasonality of asking rents and rental stock, particularly in cooler climates. Dave hints at the impact of reducing rental rates on the CPI money markets also, and considers that the impact on inflation could be positive.

    And what is happening with listings? We have more new listings than previous years, but our total listing figures are still below historical levels. Mike points out the correlation between listing figures and capital growth and Dave circles in on Brisbane. Could heightened new listing figures hint that Brisbane's market is peaking?

    The standouts in the Westpac Consumer Sentiment Index are relate to the Interest Rate Expectations index and the Family Finances vs a Year Ago. Are households getting accustomed to the conditions now, or have household savings stabilised now that some of the other costs like fuel and consumables have calmed down..... or could it relate to the recent tax cuts? Mike points out the impact of insurance and the costs associated with natural disasters on the inflation figures. Breaking the figures down into states and territories is interesting though, and NSW records the bleakest outlook for Time to Buy a Dwelling, as Dave cites.

    The figures within the ABS lending indicators data demonstrate that investors are certainly strong. Owner occupier finance for first home buyers is reasonably strong in both QLD, VIC and ACT and Dave puts this down to incentives and government support.

    Lastly, Dave discusses the delicate balance between interest rates, the unemployment rate, and the complexity that the Reserve Bank board have to consider at every step.

    And... time for our gold nuggets...

    Mike Mortlock's gold nugget: While the monthly updates are great, month to month isn't a big indicator of movement. It's really the trends that we need to pay attention to.

    David Johnston's gold nugget: "If you're not willing to purchase interstate, then the month to month figures aren't that relevant. If you're not willing to purchase interstate, then the best time is now."

    Cate Bakos's gold nugget: Household spending of toys has been curbed, and Cate takes some encouragement from the decrease in travel/holidays in the finance and spending activity figures. Here's hoping for an interest rate cut soon!

    Show notes: https://www.propertytrio.com.au/2024/08/19/ep-271-july-market-update/
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    56 分
  • #270: How to Build a Diversified Investment Portfolio - Aligning Personal Goals with Timing, Age & Inheritance
    2024/08/12
    Got a question for the trio? https://forms.zohopublic.com/propertyplanningaustralia/form/GotaquestionforthePropertyTrio/formperma/zYCQAxzE_24CVlDafP1ozyzwtmB-8m1iCNtCTgDvHXM

    Emma has a great question: "I am early thirties and my husband late thirties, we have two young children. We recently made our forever home purchase in Seaholme around a year ago (not many in Melbourne know where that is but Cate will!) $2+ mil. Our mortgage is approx $880k, mostly offset. I love the area and all going to plan we stay here forever, no plans to upgrade. Our combined income is just over $500k per year (gross) I work part time and will increase my income when kids go to school. We own an inner city apartment that is rented at $900 a week and will sell when kids are out of childcare. We have cash savings that could enable a deposit on an investment property. My husband has purchased multiple properties in the past, (mostly smaller interstate properties) and our PPOR is my first property purchase. I have always been into shares and have done quite well for us investing pre home purchase. My default thinking has been 100% share investment after buying the PPOR however perhaps an investment property is the way to go first. My query is timing, now or wait?"

    Alignment of investment timing with personal financial stability is crucial for several reasons.
    • Financial stability determines an investors ability to manage and sustain and investment, particularly in volatile markets.
    • It also puts an investor in a stronger stronger position to absorb any unexpected costs or economic downturns that might affect their investment.
    • Factoring in time and compound growth, an investor has some positive outcomes to look forward to, and Dave talks our listeners through some realistic modelled projections.
    "And this is why starting early is so advantageous."

    Emma has also asked for the Trio's thoughts on shares vs property and what would be a good diversification mix. Emma has a background in shares and has done well. Starting off with diversification first, how should this consideration be factored into an overall investment strategy? From superannuation to asset allocation, there are many important considerations for investors to canvas. Tune in to find out...

    How does a person's age factor into an investment strategy? Mike dares to answer... but there is a common theme.... TIME.

    What role does property play in property investment, and how does it compare to shares? Dave shares another fantastic example of leverage vs cash. Over 10,20 and 30 years, the outcomes are astonishing.

    Shares versus property... Mike is in the hotseat, but Dave details the pros and cons of each too. But canvasing a balanced strategy; for someone who is ambivalent and not particularly swayed towards either property or shares, the Trio have a few thoughts about how investors can achieve a balanced strategy. Dave's key points include;
    • An initial focus on securing a home and acquiring 1-3 investment properties as soon as possible,
    • Opening a focus to shares, whilst maximising super contributions in the early days
    • Retaining the ability to continue paying down any existing debt
    • Timing share investments when rental cash flow becomes positively geared, and
    • Maintaining a healthy balance of both asset classes
    Cate's knowledge of Melbourne's inner-west shines through, but she reminds listeners that there is more to property strategy than just circling capital growth prospects. Assuming Emma is circling capital growth, Cate has some local insights to share.

    What advice does Dave have for those who are anticipating inheritance and/or bonuses? Research suggests that this can impact negatively on people's diligence with budgeting and investing

    ..... and our gold nuggets!

    Cate Bakos's gold nugget: These listeners are young and they are thinking pro-actively about investing. Time is their best friend!

    David Johnston's gold nugget: What jumps out for Emma and her husband is the fact that they have been investing since a young age. Dave marvels at their diligence, and reminds listeners that this couple are in a great position because they started young.

    Mike Mortlock's gold nugget: Mike reflects on the shares vs property discussion and he challenges our duo to consider the power of leveraging.

    Show Notes: https://www.propertytrio.com.au/2024/08/12/demystifying-auction-campaigns-2-2/
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    47 分
  • #269: Auction Day Drama - Setting Reserves, Mastering Your Strategy, Handling Setbacks, Auction Day Pressures & Preparing for Success
    2024/08/05
    Got a question for the trio? https://forms.zohopublic.com/propertyplanningaustralia/form/GotaquestionforthePropertyTrio/formperma/zYCQAxzE_24CVlDafP1ozyzwtmB-8m1iCNtCTgDvHXM


    We often talk about property acquisition experiences from the buyer’s perspective, but this second part episode is all about the auction campaign process from an agent’s perspective. The Trio specifically circled in on the challenges and flavours of auction day, noting the various twists and turns that campaigns can take.

    What visibility does the vendor have throughout the campaign?

    From campaign updates to online buyer activity reports, the agents can track a multitude of leading indicators to share with the vendors along the way. Dave promps Cate to share some of the things that can go wrong for the vendor and their agent in the final week of the auction campaign. Buyers circumstances can change, finance delays could ensue, legal issues could arise, or buyers could purchase alternative properties. So many challenges can crop up and agents need to be prepared to pivot quickly.

    And what happens when another similar property comes onto the market with a lower auction quote range?

    Mike questions vendor-led curveballs and Cate chats about the things that can lead vendors to change things up.

    Cate walks the listeners through some of the behind-the-scenes things that most buyers wouldn't realise, including reserve price setting. The Trio delve into the pro's and cons of leaving the reserve price setting to auction day.

    The pressure that many vendors face is quite significant, and Cate's insights into the 'half time show' (or referral) sheds light on the intensity of the decision to place the property on the market.

    Pass-ins can be terrifying for some, but being equipped with knowledge and comparable sales research can make a huge difference. Cate shares some tips for buyers who may face a pass-in.

    Cate demystifies heckling, auction disrupters and intimidating behaviours. She also delves into the risks that buyers take if they annoy the auctioneer.

    Intimidating bidding is tough for buyers who are ill-prepared, but there are other mistakes that buyers make at auction. Cate's real life story about bidding increments and auction rules illustrates the critical mistakes that buyers sometimes make. The auctioneer, agents and vendor's plights must be considered when bidders make mistakes.

    .... and our gold nuggets!

    Mike Mortlock's gold nugget: Mike reflects on the complexity of auction campaigns.

    Cate Bakos's gold nugget: How you are viewed by the vendor. The agent is the conduit between the buyer and the vendor. Buyers need to consider the impact and influence that the agent can have on the vendor when it comes to favouring certain buyers.

    David Johnston's gold nugget: Agents deal with different vendor personalities all the time. It's OK to ask for a bit of background about the vendor if you are wanting to understand more about what the agent is dealing with behind the scenes.

    Show Notes: https://www.propertytrio.com.au/2024/08/05/demystifying-auction-campaigns-2/
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    40 分
  • #268: Demystifying Auction Campaigns - Navigating Underquoting, How Agents Attract Buyers, Pricing Tactics and Assessing Buyer Interest
    2024/07/29
    Got a question for the trio? https://forms.zohopublic.com/propertyplanningaustralia/form/GotaquestionforthePropertyTrio/formperma/zYCQAxzE_24CVlDafP1ozyzwtmB-8m1iCNtCTgDvHXM

    We often talk about property acquisition experiences from the buyer’s perspective. We have spoken a lot on the show over the years from Cate's perspective as a buyer’s agent. But this episode is a little bit different. The Trio have delved into the auction campaign process from an agent’s perspective to share behind the curtain for our listeners. We often find that when we step into another person’s shoes, we get an appreciation of the situation from their side. This episode is all about demystifying some of the agent-speak when it comes to auctions, but it’s also about educating our listeners to be able to get a better appreciation of the twists and turns auctions can deliver.

    What are the key differences between an auction campaign and private sales campaigns?

    The conversation quickly arrives at underquoting, and Cate distils the limitations to the transparency of the campaign, and the Trio chat about the variability of auction results. Cate also touches on the power of social proof, and also the situations when underquoting backfires on agents.

    The Trio canvas the challenges that agents and vendors face when competing campaigns are quoting lower estimated auction price ranges.

    "Appraising a property is a combination of art and science."

    Dave delves into the challenges that a real estate professional, (and even a valuer) faces when appraising or valuing a property.

    Cate chats about the skill of the agent to manage good dialogue with their buyers, but she also sheds light on the usefulness of CRM's. What are some of the hallmarks that buyers exhibit that agents take note of? Tune in to find out.

    Mike reminds buyers to channel their disinterested-teenager vibes!

    What steps could an agent take if they sense that they have limited buyer interest on an auction campaign? And what does it mean when an auction quote range changes? Cate shares her industry insights and explains some of the pivots that agents sometimes initiate during a campaign.

    The Trio chat about the best way for vendors to approach agent selection when selecting a property. Those who promise the world aren't necessarily the best agents to go with. Due diligence is critical and a science-based approach from the agent at the commencement should be obvious.

    Dave delves into the planning and the campaign calendar that agents present to their vendors. From photos to styling, advertising to open for inspections... there are a lot of important steps that agents manage.

    And why do agents resist pre-auction offers from some buyers, but allow others to trigger a pre-auction sale with a sharper offer? There is a reason why this sometimes happens...

    .... and our gold nuggets!

    Mike Mortlock's gold nugget: Mike chats about the benefits of buyer's agents and the skills and services they bring to the table.

    Cate Bakos's gold nugget: Agents deal with different vendor personalities all the time. It's OK to ask for a bit of background about hte vendor if you are wanting to understand more about what the agent is dealing with behind the scenes.

    Show notes: https://www.propertytrio.com.au/2024/07/29/demystifying-auction-campaigns-1/
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    47 分
  • #267: Crafting a Winning Property Strategy - Navigating Asset Selection, Growth vs Cash Flow & Changing Property Purpose
    2024/07/22
    Got a question for the trio? https://forms.zohopublic.com/propertyplanningaustralia/form/GotaquestionforthePropertyTrio/formperma/zYCQAxzE_24CVlDafP1ozyzwtmB-8m1iCNtCTgDvHXM

    Mike kicks off the episode with the first listener question. Josephine writes in... she and her partner have just secured their first property with the help of the First Home Guarantee, and the purchase is about to settle. They were initially planning to reside in the property, but after discussions they are wondering if they have made the right move. They are keen to continue building a property portfolio and they are worried that they should have considered an investment first. Was it a mistake? Should they revise their strategy? And is it costly to switch the property to an investment now?

    The Trio unpack this dilemma... or is it a dilemma?

    Dave breaks down the questions and congratulates Josephine and her husband on a great achievement. They have navigated the purchase of a potential family home that could be improved/extended, getting "the big rock in the jar." Dave concedes that they have actually got the purchase mechanism in the right order.

    Our listener is planning on moving out and renting the property out for a while before moving back, and while there are tax considerations and critical dates to consider, their overall strategy sounds feasible. Moving back in with parents will enable them to manage their cashflow optimally and continue saving hard. Cate acknowledges their Lender's Mortgage Insurance advantage also.

    Dave addresses the burning technical question: Are there big implications to switching from owner occupier to investment and back again? Paying interest only and preserving all of the debt is an important consideration if they are considering this property as a stepping stone to later be converted to an investment property later on. Cate's sage words about the importance of getting great tax advice before making firm decisions that can't be reversed, resonate.

    Mike revels in sharing some tax details with our listeners. There are two main elements of depreciation topic; Division 40, (Plant and equipment) and Division 43 (Structural components). Both are treated differently when a borrower renovates and Mike sets out some examples of how each are treated.

    "You're 26 and you've got a house. You're crushing it!", says Mike.

    Catherine's listener question is all about the optimal configuration of a character dwelling in Melbourne. She wonders if she should be targeting two bedroom, one bathroom cottages, larger three bedroom houses or improved dwellings with ensuites. Cate details the styles, eras and historical timeframe of Melbourne's growth during the turn of the century through to pre-war. Where can you find the different categories and styles? How do they perform? Why are they so special? And what changes did COVID create to demand for Victorian cottages? The Trio discuss the variables, from price points, to the work from home phenomenon, and renovation opportunities. Yield, (cashflow) and Land to Asset Ratio are important considerations when an investor is considering layouts and configurations.

    Dave tackles the strategy-piece that Catherine should be considering as she devises her purchase plan for this purchase.

    Cate shares some A-grade period property selection tips... tune in to catch them! .

    ... and our gold nuggets!

    Cate Bakos's gold nugget: If a buyer can identify a property that has no obvious detractors to a mainstream buyer, they are poised well for capital growth.

    Dave Johnston's gold nugget: Getting the big rock in the jar sooner, the better. For most people it's the most expensive asset they hold, (and for some, the only asset they hold). Getting the big rock in the jar early enables borrowers to get the debt down sooner, and allows them to focus on their investment plans for retirement.

    Mike Mortlock's gold nugget: "It's all about strategy, and Dave and Cate are all in for the period homes!"

    Shownotes: https://www.propertytrio.com.au/2024/07/22/winning-strategy-and-asset-selection/
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    47 分
  • #266: Market Update Jun 24 – Record House Price Expectations, Mid-Size Capitals Soar & Finding Rental Growth Equilibrium
    2024/07/15
    Got a question for the trio? https://forms.zohopublic.com/propertyplanningaustralia/form/GotaquestionforthePropertyTrio/formperma/zYCQAxzE_24CVlDafP1ozyzwtmB-8m1iCNtCTgDvHXM


    Mike kicks off this episode, and the Trio unpack the latest stats. Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth continue to be the star performers, with Perth taking up first place with an annualised growth rate of 23.6%.

    On the flip side, Cate shares her coalface findings on Melbourne's climate, citing opportunities as "low hanging fruit." Cate describes some of the interstate investor interest in Melbourne as speculative and opportunistic. Dave raises the point that interstate migration has played a key role in some of the growth data also, as have investors whose purchase and selling activity has been triggered by tax and legislation changes.

    While the pace of growth of rents has slowed, rents are still all positive, and with the exception of Darwin, Canberra and Hobart, our rents are still out-pacing CPI. The Trio reflect on Peter Koulizos's sage observation in past years; rents are only just catching up after a long period of limited growth.

    Mike wonders what the driving force is for rental growth easing. Could it be a supply and demand factor? Are more people cohabitating? Have rents reached a natural cap based on affordability? The Trio debate some of the possibilities, including re-partnering of couples following the COVID response.

    And what is happening with listings? We have more new listings than previous years, but our total listing figures are still below historical levels. However, the increasing number of 'old listings' in Victoria is showing signs of total supply potentially outpacing buyer demand.

    This month's Westpac Consumer Sentiment has some changes since last month. As Cate says, "Everybody seems to think that the next twelve months isn't looking so rosy but they can visualise good times ahead of that."

    Dave distils consumer sentiment into states and territories. Time to buy a dwelling index had the largest declines in the capital cities that have recorded the highest price gains. The Trio tackle a conflicting driver of sentiment; the wealth effect.

    Mike cites the 'crane index', which is a crude measure of building activity and supply. It is as basic as counting the cranes on the city landscape.

    The Trio uncover two interesting extra charts. The cash rate target vs cumulative change in national home values proves Peter Koulizos's point that there is not a direct correlation between house price growth and interest rates.

    The chart below shows the difference between median monthly rent value and mortgage repayment for the equivalent property. It illustrates the huge differential between the mortgage repayments and the rental payments for the same dwelling.

    And... time for our gold nuggets...

    David Johnston's gold nugget: Dave wants Core Logic do conduct a deep dive analysis into the Victorian market purchaser/investor activity following recent land tax changes.

    Cate Bakos's gold nugget: Cate would also love access to our various state and territory revenue offices to understand the impact of the reforms and taxes, particularly on overseas investors.

    Mike Mortlock's gold nugget: Mike shares the importance of buying when you are ready, as opposed to attempts to time the market. While the white noise and doomsayer stories float around in the media, it's important for investors to keep a long term focus.

    Shownotes: https://www.propertytrio.com.au/2024/07/15/ep-266-june-market-update/
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    51 分