The Elephant In The Room Property Podcast | Inside Australian Real Estate

Today, we sit down with Scott Aggett, founder of Hello Haus, a negotiation service shaking up Australia’s property buying landscape. Scott pulls back the curtain on the high-stakes game of real estate negotiation and reveals why most buyers are unknowingly walking into traps laid by experienced selling agents. If you’ve ever felt outmatched or overwhelmed in the home-buying process, this conversation will open your eyes to what’s going on behind the scenes. Listeners will gain deep insights into the psychological tactics agents use to push buyers into emotional decisions, often costing them tens of thousands more than necessary. Scott explains why traditional buyer’s agents may not be equipped to negotiate effectively, and how negotiation as a service provides a smarter, leaner alternative for buyers who want to retain control without losing leverage. He shares examples of real-world mistakes and outlines how simple behavioural cues—like revisiting a property too many times or discussing price too early—can weaken your position. Whether you're a first-home buyer or a seasoned investor, this episode is packed with actionable tips to help you think more strategically and negotiate with confidence. We also explore how market dynamics are changing, what smart buyers are doing differently in 2025, and why negotiation is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. If you're serious about buying better, this is one you don't want to miss. Episode Highlights 00:00 – Welcome 03:10 – Why Most Buyers Are Outmatched by Selling Agents 05:47 – The Buyer’s Agent Problem: Sourcing ≠ Negotiating  18:10 – Emotional Buying: How It Undermines Your Leverage 25:32 – What to Say (and Not Say) When Dealing with Agents 37:42 – Auction Theatre: How FOMO is Engineered  42:10 – Negotiation as a Service: A Smarter Model for Modern Buyers 50:50 – The Future of Property Negotiation in Australia About the Guest Scott Aggett is one of Australia’s leading property negotiation experts, with over 30 years of experience and more than 4,000 successful real estate deals across Australia, the UK, and Asia.  Beginning his career as a sales agent before launching multiple Belle Property franchises in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs, Scott is renowned for his innovative "Negotiation as a Service" approach, which he pioneered through his company, Hello Haus. His negotiation-focused model has empowered countless Australian buyers to secure top-performing investments and dream homes with less stress and below-market prices. After Hello Haus was acquired by major industry players in 2024, Scott continues to advocate for transparent, client-focused property negotiations, regularly sharing market insights across major media and industry platforms. Connect with Scott Website: https://www.scottaggett.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottaggett Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottaggett Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/scott.aggett/ Resources Visit our website: https://www.theelephantintheroom.com.au If you have any questions or would like to be featured on our show, contact us at: The Elephant in the Room Property Podcast - questions@theelephantintheroom.com.au Looking for a Sydney Buyers Agent? https://www.gooddeeds.com.au Work with Veronica: https://www.veronicamorgan.com.au Looking for a Mortgage Broker? https://www.alcove.au Work with Chris: chrisbates@alcove.au Enjoyed the podcast? Don't miss out on what's yet to come! Hit that subscription button, spread the word, and join us for more insightful discussions in real estate. Your journey starts now! Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theelephantintheroom-podcast Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-elephant-in-the-room-property-podcast/id1384822719 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Ge1626dgnmK0RyKPcXjP0?si=26cde394fa854765 If you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey! See you on the inside, Veronica & ChrisSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

James Wrigley, a Principal and Certified Financial Planner at First Financial, shares invaluable insights on securing financial freedom in Australia. He demystifies the misconception that property is the ultimate retirement asset, advocating for a strategic focus on superannuation. Discover how to maximize tax returns, the power of catch-up contributions, and shift your mindset from being a 'property person' to an outcome-focused investor. Wrigley emphasizes early planning, the emotional side of finances, and the potential growth of super from $300K to $2M.

When it comes to property ownership in Australia, few topics are as misunderstood—and as crucial—as insurance. In this episode, Veronica sits down with Kimberley Jonsson, CEO of CHU Insurance, to unpack the growing risks in strata and property insurance and why many owners might be underprepared. From the rising cost of premiums to the unseen dangers lurking in older buildings, Kimberley brings expert insight into the systemic issues shaping Australia’s housing market—and what that means for you. We dive into how the Insurance Affordability Index reveals a stark difference between houses and strata properties, why mandatory strata insurance may be more affordable than you think, and the real consequences of underinsurance. Kimberley also shares powerful case studies—including a Bondi building on the brink of collapse—that challenge conventional thinking about risk, responsibility, and return on investment in the property space. Whether you're an investor, owner-occupier, strata manager, or buyer's agent, this episode will shift how you think about property protection and help you make smarter, faster decisions. Because when it comes to insurance, delaying action costs more than just money. Enjoyed this episode? Be sure to subscribe, share with your property network, and leave us a review on your podcast app. Got a question or topic suggestion? Reach out—we’d love to hear from you!       Episode Highlights: Welcome [00:00] The Underinsurance Crisis [03:48] Strata Insurance Is More Affordable Than You Think [11:30] The Challenges with Insurance Valuations [18:45] What It Takes to Be ‘Uninsurable’ [29:40] Don’t Delay Repairs: The $1M Roof Story [37:54] The Bondi Building That Nearly Collapsed [51:07] Final Advice for Buyers and Investors [59:40]   About our Guest: Kimberley Jonsson is the CEO of CHU Underwriting Agencies, Australia’s largest and longest-standing strata insurance underwriting agency. With over two decades of experience in strata and insurance, she is a leading advocate for transforming the perception of strata living from a fallback option to the "new Australian dream" by fostering vibrant, informed, and resilient strata communities. Under her leadership, CHU focuses on innovation, education, and sustainability to enhance risk management and build resilience for more than 4.2 million Australians living in strata. Recognized globally for her influence and innovation in insurance, Kimberley also serves as a Director of ANZIIF and has been featured on the Insurance Business Global 100 List     Connect with Kimberly: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberley-jonsson-92300342/       Resources: Visit our website: https://www.theelephantintheroom.com.au If you have any questions or would like to be featured on our show, contact us at: The Elephant in the Room Property Podcast - questions@theelephantintheroom.com.au Looking for a Sydney Buyers Agent? https://www.gooddeeds.com.au Work with Veronica: https://www.veronicamorgan.com.au Looking for a Mortgage Broker? https://www.alcove.au Work with Chris: chrisbates@alcove.au Enjoyed the podcast? Don't miss out on what's yet to come! Hit that subscription button, spread the word, and join us for more insightful discussions in real estate. Your journey starts now!   Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theelephantintheroom-podcast Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-elephant-in-the-room-property-podcast/id1384822719 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Ge1626dgnmK0RyKPcXjP0?si=26cde394fa854765   If you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey!   See you on the inside, Veronica & ChrisSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What happens when a city goes from being “uninvestable” to a national hotspot almost overnight? In this episode, Perth-based buyer’s agent Matthew Hughes joins Veronica to unpack what’s driving the WA property surge—and what investors are getting wrong. With boots-on-the-ground insight, he shares why affordability alone is a flawed strategy, how investor FOMO is distorting the market, and why timing and fundamentals still matter. While many are chasing quick wins, Matthew and Veronica challenge the hype. They dig into the risks of borderless buying, the pitfalls of relying solely on data, and why buying cheap doesn’t always mean buying smart. For investors chasing long-term outperformance, this conversation is packed with insights on due diligence, owner-occupier demand, and how to avoid the traps of short-term sugar hits. Whether you’re investing in Perth or watching from the East Coast, this episode is a must-listen for anyone serious about sustainable growth. Hit play now and learn how to think long-term in a market driven by short-term noise.       Episode Highlights: Welcome [00:00] Perth Property Market Overview [00:59] Current State of the Perth Market [01:28] Impact of Investors and Local Buyers [03:11] Challenges for Local Buyer's Agents [05:51] Market Trends and Investment Strategies [07:33] Common Mistakes by Investors [08:49] Impact of Market Cycles on Investors [15:25] Role of Lending Advice in Investment Strategies [38:11] Due Diligence and Risk Management [42:35] Property Market Trends and Future Outlook [49:05]       About our Guest: Matthew Hughes is the Managing Director and Senior Buyer's Agent at Capital Property Advisory (CPA), Perth’s highest-rated buyer’s agency and development consultancy. With over 20 years of experience in property investment and development, Matthew has a deep passion for wealth creation through strategic property acquisition. He began investing at 19 and has since dedicated over a decade exclusively to working with buyers, guiding clients with unbiased, research-backed advice tailored to their individual goals. Matthew is a Qualified Property Investment Adviser (QPIA®), a licensed real estate and business agent, and a respected leader in the industry, recently winning the 2025 National Property Investment Adviser of the Year award from the Property Investment Professionals of Australia (PIPA). He also serves on the PIPA Board of Directors, advocating for ethical standards and investor education across Australia\     Connect with Matthew: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewhughesqpia/       Resources: Visit our website: https://www.theelephantintheroom.com.au Visit our website https://www.theelephantintheroom.com.au If you have any questions or would like to be featured on our show, contact us at: The Elephant in the Room Property Podcast - questions@theelephantintheroom.com.au Looking for a Sydney Buyers Agent? https://www.gooddeeds.com.au Work with Veronica: https://www.veronicamorgan.com.au Looking for a Mortgage Broker? https://www.alcove.au Work with Chris: chrisbates@alcove.au Enjoyed the podcast? Don't miss out on what's yet to come! Hit that subscription button, spread the word, and join us for more insightful discussions in real estate. Your journey starts now!   Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theelephantintheroom-podcast Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-elephant-in-the-room-property-podcast/id1384822719 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Ge1626dgnmK0RyKPcXjP0?si=26cde394fa854765 If you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey!   See you on the inside, Veronica & ChrisSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we’re joined by Tim Riley, founder of Property Collectives, to explore a new way of thinking about housing—one rooted in collaboration, not speculation. Tim breaks down how the group build model works, why it’s gaining traction, and how it empowers people to co-create their homes rather than buy off the plan. We cover a wide range of topics, including long-term land leases, co-op residency structures, cost-based living models, and how these ideas could offer an alternative to rising rents and traditional home ownership. Tim also talks through the realities of group decision-making, equity capital requirements, and the mindset shift needed to embrace collective development. If you’re interested in housing affordability, innovative ownership structures, or just want to understand where the future of property might be heading, this conversation is packed with insights. Tune in now to hear how Property Collectives is challenging the status quo in Australian housing.   Episode Highlights: Welcome [00:00] Tim Riley's Journey and Initial Projects [02:14] Details of Group Builds and Decision-Making [04:53] Financial Benefits and Social Aspects [06:33] Formation and Management of Groups [12:16] Challenges and Solutions in Group Builds [15:10] Expansion and Future Plans [31:05] Impact and Broader Implications [55:21]   About our Guest: Tim Riley is the founder and Development Director of Property Collectives, a pioneering Australian property development group known for its innovative, community-led approach to housing. With a background in marketing, Tim transitioned into property development in 2010, establishing Property Collectives to empower individuals and groups to collaboratively design and build architecturally distinctive homes at cost. Under his leadership, the company has delivered numerous projects across Melbourne, focusing on affordability, sustainability, and social impact. Tim’s vision centers on creating quality homes and vibrant communities by enabling participants to become co-developers, sharing both the responsibilities and rewards of property ownership   Connect with Tim: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timykriley/ Website: https://propertycollectives.com.au/team/tim-riley/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/timykriley1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/propertycollectives   Resources: Visit our website: https://www.theelephantintheroom.com.au Visit our website https://www.theelephantintheroom.com.au If you have any questions or would like to be featured on our show, contact us at: The Elephant in the Room Property Podcast - questions@theelephantintheroom.com.au Looking for a Sydney Buyers Agent? https://www.gooddeeds.com.au Work with Veronica: https://www.veronicamorgan.com.au Looking for a Mortgage Broker? https://www.alcove.au Work with Chris: chrisbates@alcove.au Enjoyed the podcast? Don't miss out on what's yet to come! Hit that subscription button, spread the word, and join us for more insightful discussions in real estate. Your journey starts now!   Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theelephantintheroom-podcast Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-elephant-in-the-room-property-podcast/id1384822719 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Ge1626dgnmK0RyKPcXjP0?si=26cde394fa854765 If you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey!   See you on the inside, Veronica & ChrisSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What’s really behind the shift we’re seeing in regional property market trends, especially along the NSW South Coast? In this episode, we sit down with our good friend and local expert Matthew Knight as someone who’s been living and breathing this stuff for years, to give us the real story. We’ve heard all the noise about COVID booms and tree changers flooding coastal towns, but what happens after the rush settles? Are people still moving out of the city, or has the tide gone out? Matthew walks us through what he’s seeing on the ground; where prices surged way too far, where they’ve pulled back, and which areas are starting to bounce back. We talk about the rise of Airbnb buyers again, the return of holiday home interest, and how first-home buyers have actually had some solid opportunities, despite what the headlines say. The regional property market trends aren’t one-size-fits-all, and this chat really digs into why. We also get into infrastructure changes like the Shell Cove Marina and new hospitals, and how those are making a real difference for retirees, families, and essential workers looking to settle in. And of course, we couldn’t help but talk about schools, childcare, and what happens when a region grows faster than it’s ready for. This one’s a grounded, honest look at life beyond the cities; what’s working, what’s struggling, and what might be next. If you’ve been watching regional property market trends and wondering where things are headed, this episode’s got plenty to chew on. Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Introduction 01:12 - Who is Matthew Knight? 01:29 - How has the South Coast property market changed since COVID? 05:44 - Which areas were hit hardest when the South Coast boom was corrected? 08:18 - Did city buyers push prices beyond what locals consider fair value? 10:53 - Why are some beach towns struggling more than others? 13:15 - Are more investors shifting to short-term rentals like Airbnb? 15:49 - Why have some people reversed their sea change and returned to the city? 23:36 - Did first-home buyers take advantage of softer conditions in 2024? 28:40 - What infrastructure upgrades are reshaping the region? 32:01 - Are zoning changes and new housing keeping up with growth? 33:41 - What broke when the population boomed and is it being fixed? 36:45 - What does the next five years look like for the regional market? 39:37 - How much does the future of remote work affect the coast’s appeal? 42:07 - Do locals just visit the city when they need a dose of culture or convenience? 46:22 - Matthew Knight’s property dumbo About Our Guest: Matthew Knight is the Founder and Director of Precium, a buyer’s agency specialising in regional New South Wales, particularly the NSW South Coast. With over two decades of experience in property investment and market analysis, Matt combines data-driven insight with a practical understanding of local dynamics. A long-time resident of the South Coast himself, he has firsthand knowledge of the region’s unique challenges and opportunities. Matt is widely respected for his integrity, deep local expertise, and commitment to helping homebuyers, investors, and downsizers make informed, confident property decisions. Connect with Matthew Knight: LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattknightprect Instagram https://www.instagram.com/preciumproperty/ Website https://precium.com.au/ Resources: Visit our website https://www.theelephantintheroom.com.au If you have any questions or would like to be featured on our show, contact us at: The Elephant in the Room Property Podcast - questions@theelephantintheroom.com.au Looking for a Sydney Buyers Agent? https://www.gooddeeds.com.au Work with Veronica: https://www.veronicamorgan.com.au Looking for a Mortgage Broker? https://www.alcove.au Work with Chris: chrisbates@alcove.au Enjoyed the podcast? Don't miss out on what's yet to come! Hit that subscription button, spread the word and join us for more insightful discussions in real estate. Your journey starts now!   Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theelephantintheroom-podcast Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-elephant-in-the-room-property-podcast/id1384822719 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Ge1626dgnmK0RyKPcXjP0?si=26cde394fa854765 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join Peter Mares, an independent journalist and author of 'No Place Like Home,' as he unpacks the real reasons behind Australia's housing crisis. He challenges the myth that lack of construction is the sole issue, revealing how historical policy decisions favor wealth over stability. Peter dives into the effects of negative gearing, the cultural obsession with homeownership, and the missed opportunities with medium-density housing. He also offers practical solutions to shift the focus towards affordable housing for everyone.

Is all this property wealth we talk about actually real—or is it just theoretical? That’s what we unpack in this episode with our guest Martin North, founder of Digital Finance Analytics and someone who’s been watching the numbers and the story behind them for years. We ask him: is Australia’s $11 trillion property market built on something solid, or are we clinging to an illusion that’s quietly reshaping the country? Martin walks us through what he calls a “Python swallowing an elephant” moment; the massive bulge of intergenerational wealth that’s moving slowly through the system. We get into what’s really happening with downsizing, why reverse mortgages might not be the win they’re often sold as, and what happens when kids start relying too heavily on the Bank of Mum and Dad. Spoiler: it’s not as simple or as safe as people think. We also look at what governments are doing, policies around death tax fears, proposed taxes on unrealized gains in super, and the broader impact of kicking the can down the road. Martin doesn’t hold back when it comes to calling out flawed thinking or dangerous policy decisions, and it makes for a really thoughtful, at times surprising, conversation. If you’re trying to make sense of where the market’s heading or what might be brewing beneath all this apparent prosperity, you’ll want to sit with this one. It’s not about panic—it’s about facing the bigger picture and asking the harder questions most people still avoid. Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Introduction 01:26 - Who is Martin North? 02:20 - Why is intergenerational wealth transfer such a big issue today? 07:38 - Are we double counting superannuation totals when comparing asset classes? 11:29 - Why can’t many older Australians downsize, even if they want to? 13:04 - Financial traps hidden in retirement villages and reverse mortgages 18:31 - How wealth and mortgage debt are distributed across generations, and why it matters 23:21 - Cultural shift in how families are handling financial support across generations? 28:05 - Are younger generations developing a sense of entitlement toward parental financial support? 33:52 - Martin's thoughts on the proposed policy to tax unrealized gains in superannuation 39:01 - Did tax reforms under Howard trigger Australia’s property boom? 41:57 - Why has Australia’s property market outpaced the UK since 2000? 45:00 - Will Australia’s $11 trillion in property wealth ever truly change hands? 48:48 - What happens when the property wealth wave finally hits the end of the line? 52:56 - Are Australians starting to see the deeper layers behind the housing crisis? 57:19 - Martin North’s property dumbo About Our Guest: Martin North is the founder of Digital Finance Analytics, a boutique research and analytics firm focused on the intersection of finance, property, and consumer behavior in Australia. With a background in banking, data science, and strategic consulting, Martin is known for his in-depth housing market surveys and independent commentary on financial systems. He regularly appears in media and podcasts to share insights grounded in data, particularly on topics like intergenerational wealth, mortgage stress, and housing affordability. His work combines macroeconomic analysis with real-world household data, making him a respected voice in Australian property and finance conversations. Connect with Martin North: LinkedIn https://au.linkedin.com/in/martin-north-6a799182 Website https://www.digitalfinanceanalytics.com/ X (formerly Twitter) https://x.com/DFA_Analyst Resources: Visit our website https://www.theelephantintheroom.com.au If you have any questions or would like to be featured on our show, contact us at: The Elephant in the Room Property Podcast - questions@theelephantintheroom.com.au Looking for a Sydney Buyers Agent? https://www.gooddeeds.com.au Work with Veronica: https://www.veronicamorgan.com.au Looking for a Mortgage Broker? https://www.alcove.au Work with Chris: chrisbates@alcove.au Enjoyed the podcast? Don't miss out on what's yet to come! Hit that subscription button, spread the word and join us for more insightful discussions in real estate. Your journey starts now! Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theelephantintheroom-podcast Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-elephant-in-the-room-property-podcast/id1384822719 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Ge1626dgnmK0RyKPcXjP0?si=26cde394fa854765 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The building industry in Australia 2025 is still feeling the ripple effects of COVID, supply chain chaos, and builder collapses, and we wanted to know what it actually looks like to survive all that. So we brought in Brad Duggan, CEO of Metricon, to pull back the curtain on what went wrong, what they got right, and what others need to understand if they’re going to build homes (and stay afloat) in this market. Brad doesn’t hold back. He talks about the grind; the fixed-price contracts, the cost blowouts, the tough calls they had to make just to finish the work they promised. We got into what shifted for buyers too: smaller homes, simpler choices, and a stronger demand for turnkey builds. There’s a reason Metricon pivoted in that direction, and it’s not just about profit, it’s about stability. We also talked through some of the bigger picture issues shaping the building industry in Australia 2025. Delays in planning, lack of trades, materials tied up in tunnels and infrastructure jobs, councils dragging their feet. Brad’s got strong views on all of it, and some practical thoughts on what actually needs to change. If you’re buying, building, or even just trying to wrap your head around the future of housing in Australia, this chat cuts through the noise. So let's dive in and get started. Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Introduction 01:11 - Who is Brad Duggan? 01:33 - How bad has it really been for builders in the last few years? 04:14 - The toughest truths Brad had to face in stepping in as CEO 05:56 - How much building capacity did the industry lose due to insolvencies? 07:26 - If builders went under, why is there still a skilled labor shortage? 09:05 - What’s driving the increase in home building costs today? 11:45 - How much of the 50% cost increase is due to materials vs labour? 14:48 - Is outsourcing builds to China a practical solution to supply shortages? 16:05 - What makes modular construction so expensive and hard to scale? 18:29 - Are Australians too picky about customisation for mass-market housing to work? 20:31 - Why aren’t apartments a good entry point for young buyers? 21:21 - What types of builds make up Metricon’s current portfolio? 22:41 - What are the cost and risk differences between custom builds and volume builders? 25:19 - The risk of cookie-cutter suburbs in affordable housing 29:38 - Has construction productivity actually improved in Australia or not? 32:43 - Should buyers focus more on land content for better capital growth? 36:38 - Have all affected customers from collapsed builders been helped? 37:45 - What role should regulators play in builder accountability? 39:05 - Are investors finally returning to the market? 40:07 - What’s wrong with how some investment properties are sold? 47:14 - Does protecting the ‘neighbourhood feel’ stall progress? 51:39 - Brad Duggan’s property dumbo About Our Guest: Brad Duggan is the Chief Executive Officer of Metricon, Australia’s largest home builder. He stepped into the CEO role in July 2023 after serving as the company’s Chief Financial and Operating Officer. With over two decades of experience in finance and construction, Brad has held senior leadership positions at Probuild, WBHO Infrastructure, Australian Unity, and PwC. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting and Finance from the University of Tasmania and is a Chartered Accountant. Brad is known for his pragmatic leadership during one of the most challenging periods in the construction industry, guiding Metricon through a successful financial turnaround while maintaining its position as the country’s top residential builder. Connect with Brad Duggan: LinkedIn https://au.linkedin.com/in/brad-duggan-96160818 Website https://www.metricon.com.au/ Resources: Visit our website https://www.theelephantintheroom.com.au If you have any questions or would like to be featured on our show, contact us at: The Elephant in the Room Property Podcast questions@theelephantintheroom.com.au Looking for a Sydney Buyers Agent? https://www.gooddeeds.com.au Work with Veronica: https://www.veronicamorgan.com.au Looking for a Mortgage Broker? https://www.alcove.au Work with Chris: chrisbates@alcove.au Enjoyed the podcast? Don't miss out on what's yet to come! Hit that subscription button, spread the word and join us for more insightful discussions in real estate. Your journey starts now! Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theelephantintheroom-podcast Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-elephant-in-the-room-property-podcast/id1384822719 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Ge1626dgnmK0RyKPcXjP0?si=26cde394fa854765 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What do zoning shakeups mean for your suburb, your street, and your property’s value? In this Q&A episode, we answer real questions from listeners and unpack the property market trends that are shaping the way people buy, build, and invest right now. We talk about what makes a home “A-grade” beyond land size and location, how to avoid overcapitalising, and why things like natural light and flexible layouts matter more than fancy finishes. We also break down the reality of rentvesting with a family and whether that under-$600K “positively geared” investment still exists. Here’s what we break down in this episode: Zoning changes are reshaping Sydney’s character suburbs—some areas will win, others could lose. Future-proofing your build matters: think layout, street appeal, and long-term resale. High rental yield doesn’t always mean better—capital growth still does the heavy lifting. Rentvesting only works if it fits your long-term goals and lifestyle. Don’t chase trends. Understand why the property market is shifting before you buy. If these are the questions keeping you up at night, or at least making you pause, this episode’s worth a listen. Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Introduction 01:49 - How will zoning and development changes affect Sydney’s heritage suburbs? 11:44 - What should I consider when building a home to maximise resale or rental value? 18:50 - Are three-bedroom apartments really being bought by first home buyers? 22:41 - Should I focus on capital growth or rental yield while building my portfolio? 34:03 - Is it still possible to buy a positively geared property under $600K? 43:56 - Should we rentvest or try to buy in an area we’ve been priced out of? Resources: Visit our website https://www.theelephantintheroom.com.au If you have any questions or would like to be featured on our show, contact us at: The Elephant in the Room Property Podcast - questions@theelephantintheroom.com.au Looking for a Sydney Buyers Agent? https://www.gooddeeds.com.au Work with Veronica: https://www.veronicamorgan.com.au Looking for a Mortgage Broker? https://www.alcove.au Work with Chris: chrisbates@alcove.au Enjoyed the podcast? Don't miss out on what's yet to come! Hit that subscription button, spread the word and join us for more insightful discussions in real estate. Your journey starts now! Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theelephantintheroom-podcast Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-elephant-in-the-room-property-podcast/id1384822719 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Ge1626dgnmK0RyKPcXjP0?si=26cde394fa854765 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.