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

What’s really driving property investors in 2025? The latest PIPA Investor Sentiment Survey lays it bare — and the results matter for every investor, renter, and policymaker in Australia.In this episode, we’re joined by Lachlan Vidler, Chair of the Property Investment Professionals of Australia (PIPA), to unpack the top findings. The survey shows investors are selling under pressure—with debt reduction, compliance costs, and land tax topping the list of reasons. But here’s the kicker: when those properties are sold, only 42% stay in the rental pool, shrinking rental supply and pushing rents higher.Policy risk looms large too. More than half of investors said they’d exit if negative gearing was altered, while others flagged land tax, compliance, and rental caps as breaking points. Yet in the same breath, nearly 60% of investors still believe it’s a good time to buy. That fragile optimism is keeping the market alive even as costs bite.Finally, the survey reveals who investors actually turn to for advice—mostly mortgage brokers and accountants, not property specialists. Why does that matter? Because it explains why investor behaviour often swings between optimism and panic, shaping rental markets and property prices in ways that affect us all.This episode is packed with insights every property investor needs to hear—because the decisions you and your peers make today are reshaping Australia’s housing market for tomorrow.Episode Highlights00:00 – Introduction02:04 – Why the Rental Market Is Being Reshaped03:11 – Top Reasons Investors Are Selling Properties04:39 – How Rising Costs Erode Investor Confidence07:08 – Pain in Melbourne, Gains in Brisbane08:15 – Federal Reforms Driving Investor Uncertainty12:02 – The Rental Pool Is Shrinking—What It Means14:29 – Supply, Demand, and Speculative Investment22:34 – Why Industry and Government Clash on Reform26:17 – How Politics Shapes Investor Outcomes28:40 – Lobbying, Legislation, and Investor Reaction31:06 – Who Investors Really Trust for Property Advice34:15 – Why Investors Need Holistic Property Guidance38:29 – Fragile Optimism: 60% Still Say It’s Time to Buy47:39 – Property Dumbo: Signing Contracts Too Soon50:01 – Wrap-Up and Where to Find PIPA ResourcesMentionsRental crisis worsens as more investors exit the market – 2025 PIPA Investor SurveyAbout the GuestLachlan Vidler is the Chair of the Property Investment Professionals of Australia (PIPA), the peak body advocating for higher standards and transparency across the property industry. With deep experience as a property advisor and investor, Lachlan brings unique insight into the data and psychology behind investor behaviour.At PIPA, he works to raise professional standards, educate investors, and shape better policy outcomes for the housing sector. His leadership positions him at the centre of Australia’s most pressing conversations on affordability, rental supply, and the future of property investment.Connect with LachlanLinkedInInstagramResourcesVisit our website: https://www.theelephantintheroom.com.auIf 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.auLooking for a Sydney Buyers Agent? https://www.gooddeeds.com.auWork with Veronica: https://www.veronicamorgan.com.auLooking for a Mortgage Broker? alcove.com.auWork with Chris: chrisbates@alcove.com.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-podcastSubscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-elephant-in-the-room-property-podcast/id1384822719Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Ge1626dgnmK0RyKPcXjP0?si=26cde394fa854765If 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 & Chris

Short-term rentals have faced caps, levies, and rising costs. Investors are asking the big question: Does the short-stay model still work?In this episode, Quirin Schwaighofer, co-founder and co-CEO of MadeComfy, joins us to unpack the state of the short-stay market in 2025. We talk about how regulations like NSW’s 180-day cap and Byron Bay’s 60-day limits are reshaping operations, where demand is shifting post-COVID, and why distribution has moved far beyond Airbnb.We also dive into when mid-term furnished rentals can outperform, what investors should track weekly to stay ahead, and the pitfalls that even seasoned owners fall into.If you’re weighing short-term vs mid-term or wondering how to keep income resilient under new rules, this episode is for you.Episode Highlights00:00 – Introduction01:15 – Meet Quirin Schwaighofer: MadeComfy's Journey01:51 – Acquisition by Prism: A New Chapter04:06 – Post-COVID: a tougher, smarter short-stay market07:11 – NSW rules, caps, and what they really mean11:15 – How other markets handle short-stay caps14:14 – Demand shifts and investor behaviour in 202519:21 – Strategies for short-term rental success25:04 – Where short-stays still shine (and struggle)26:03 – What MadeComfy actually does for owners27:02 – Beyond Airbnb: competing channels and share28:26 – Common short-stay pitfalls (and fixes)31:36 – Supply, yield, and the housing market picture32:58 – Byron Bay: balancing tourism and housing39:16 – What government should fix—and how44:17 – Closing advice for owners and investorsAbout the GuestQuirin Schwaighofer is the Co-CEO & Co-Founder of MadeComfy, the Australian accommodation innovator helping real estate professionals and investors enter and scale in short-term and mid-term rentals with tech-driven operations and a trusted consumer brand. Since 2015, he’s raised $20M+ in growth capital, won multiple Shortyz awards, and led MadeComfy to recognition in AFR BOSS’s Best Places to Work and the AFR Fast 100.In 2025, MadeComfy reached a major milestone with its acquisition by global hospitality platform OYO, marking Australia’s second-largest short-term rental industry exit after Stayz. Prior to MadeComfy, Quirin co-founded a mobile workforce platform (HiKey Resources), led large-scale projects at BHP Billiton Iron Ore, and even launched a hospitality venue while completing a Master in Industrial Engineering and an Executive MBA (AGSM @ UNSW). A German-born entrepreneur and dad of three, he blends strategic vision with hands-on ops across sales, marketing, and market expansion.Connect with QuirinWebsite (MadeComfy): https://www.madecomfy.com.au/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/quirin-schwaighofer/ResourcesVisit our website: https://www.theelephantintheroom.com.auIf 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.auLooking for a Sydney Buyers Agent? https://www.gooddeeds.com.auWork with Veronica: https://www.veronicamorgan.com.auLooking for a Mortgage Broker? alcove.com.auWork with Chris: chrisbates@alcove.com.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-podcastSubscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-elephant-in-the-room-property-podcast/id1384822719Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Ge1626dgnmK0RyKPcXjP0?si=26cde394fa854765If 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 & Chris

Property management in Australia has been facing challenges for years — tenants feel ignored, landlords are frustrated, and managers are burning out. The question is: is the entire model broken beyond repair?In this episode, we sit down with Scott Bateman, strategist, innovator, and founder of property management platform Kolmeo, to unpack what’s gone wrong and what the future could look like. Scott brings unique insights from running Australia’s largest property management business, where outdated systems, legislative overload, and high staff turnover made clear that incremental fixes weren’t enough.We explore why property management has long been treated as a poor cousin to sales, why one in three managers leave the industry within 11 months, and how fragmented tech solutions have created more problems than they solve. Scott also explains how AI and structured processes could standardise quality, reduce burnout, and make renting a dignified experience rather than a second-class one.Along the way, we tackle the unintended consequences of well-meaning legislation, why institutional investment won’t solve the rental crisis, and whether property managers could evolve into strategic advisors rather than administrators. This conversation isn’t just about real estate — it’s about reimagining an industry at a crossroads.Episode Highlights00:00 – Introduction: Is Property Management Broken?01:41 – Why the Current Property Management Model Fails05:25 – Tech: Part of the Problem or the Solution?15:52 – Why the Industry Struggles to Embrace Change17:20 – Market Shifts Reshaping Property Management19:52 – How Tenant Behavior Is Changing the Market21:36 – The Future of Property Management Technology22:22 – Shifting Perspectives on Offshoring and Technology23:20 – AI and the Promise of Radical Efficiency25:08 – Challenges in Property Management Compliance25:59 – Tenant Data, Bias, and the Rental Dilemma31:26 – Can Property Managers Become Advisors?36:26 – Balancing the Landlord-Tenant-Manager Triangle41:42 – Why Scaling Property Management Is So Hard42:19 – Lessons Learned: Rethinking the IndustryAbout the GuestScott Bateman has firmly cemented himself as one of Australian real estate’s most influential voices on organisational strategy, technology, and innovation. With a career spanning banking, insurance, and property, Scott spent more than a decade at Westpac and IAG before leading the growth and transformation of Australia’s largest property management business.In 2020, he launched Kolmeo, a game-changing property management platform now embraced by some of the country’s most innovative agencies, including Nelson Alexander, Xceed, Melbourne Real Estate, and Marshall White. Educated at Harvard Business School, Scott blends rigorous academic research with real-world practice, offering a unique perspective on how strategy and technology can reshape industries.Connect with ScottWebsite (Kolmeo): https://kolmeo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/batemanscott/X: https://x.com/batemanscottResourcesVisit our website: https://www.theelephantintheroom.com.auIf 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.auLooking for a Sydney Buyers Agent? https://www.gooddeeds.com.auWork with Veronica: https://www.veronicamorgan.com.auLooking for a Mortgage Broker? alcove.com.auWork with Chris: chrisbates@alcove.com.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-podcastSubscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-elephant-in-the-room-property-podcast/id1384822719Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Ge1626dgnmK0RyKPcXjP0?si=26cde394fa854765If 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 & Chris

Australia’s housing market has been facing growing pressures in recent years.Homeowners often sit on millions in equity but can’t easily access it, while aspiring buyers without the “Bank of Mum and Dad” struggle to get into the market. At the same time, investors chase capital growth but face the costly, stressful reality of being landlords.In this episode, we sit down with Evan Thornley, CEO of LongView, to explore a smarter alternative: a residential property fund that unlocks equity for homeowners and delivers strong returns for investors. Through products like HomeFlex and Buying Boost, LongView’s fund allows existing owners to access cash without selling, while helping buyers bridge the deposit gap. For investors, the fund offers exposure to capital growth across a diversified pool of quality homes — without the headaches of tenants, maintenance, or leverage.Evan explains how LongView uses data science and on-the-ground expertise to identify “RODWELLs” (Robust Older Dwellings on Well Located Land), ensuring the fund consistently outperforms the market. We also hear real-world stories: families who avoided selling during divorce, homeowners funding life-changing renovations, and younger buyers who gained a foothold in the market sooner.If you’re a homeowner looking to unlock equity, or an investor seeking a lower-risk, higher-return alternative to landlordism, this conversation reveals why LongView’s fund might be the future of property investing in Australia.Episode Highlights00:00 – Introduction01:37 – Innovative Property Ownership Models04:02 – HomeFlex: Unlocking Home Equity06:26 – Predicting Capital Growth in Property13:44 – Investment Strategies and Market Insights17:09 – Client and Investor Perspectives26:36 – Diversification and Risk Management28:26 – Portfolio Distribution Across Cities28:46 – Future Fund Plans and Social Purpose30:18 – Challenges in Setting Up Funds31:23 – Clarifying Equity vs. Growth33:23 – Investor Appeal and Market Potential36:07 – Buying Boost and Shared Equity38:03 – Client Success Stories44:26 – Final Thoughts and ConclusionAbout the GuestEvan Thornley is the co-founder and CEO of LongView, a recognised leader in residential property buying and management that is pioneering funds management in Australia’s existing dwelling asset class. A technology and social entrepreneur, Evan has been a property investor for more than 30 years across Australia and the US.Before turning his focus to housing, Evan co-founded LookSmart Ltd, one of the first Australian tech companies to list on NASDAQ, reaching a peak market value of AUD $14.2 billion and returning its investors 100x. He also co-founded GoodStart, Australia’s largest social venture and the world’s largest early childhood education provider. His career has spanned entrepreneurship, social impact, and public policy — including serving as Parliamentary Secretary for Innovation under Premier Steve Bracks, co-founding the think tank Per Capita, and helping launch activist network GetUp!For the past eight years, Evan has been consumed with finding solutions to Australia’s housing challenges. Through LongView, he has built a platform that blends data science, deep property expertise, and innovative financial structures. His mission: to unlock housing wealth in ways that deliver both strong investor returns and better outcomes for Australian homeowners and buyers.Connect with EvanWebsite: https://LongView.com.au/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/evan.thornley/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evanthornley/ResourcesVisit our website: https://www.theelephantintheroom.com.auIf 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.auLooking for a Sydney Buyers Agent? https://www.gooddeeds.com.auWork with Veronica: https://www.veronicamorgan.com.auLooking for a Mortgage Broker? alcove.com.auWork with Chris: chrisbates@alcove.com.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-podcastSubscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-elephant-in-the-room-property-podcast/id1384822719Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Ge1626dgnmK0RyKPcXjP0?si=26cde394fa854765If 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 & Chris

Australia’s housing crisis isn’t just a social problem — it’s an economic one.In this episode, Robert Pradolin, founder of Housing All Australians, argues that secure, affordable housing must be treated as essential infrastructure for the nation’s prosperity. With over 40 years in residential development, Robert brings both insider knowledge and bold solutions to a system that has been failing for decades.We dig into how the private sector can mobilise unused buildings as “pop-up shelters,” why compassionate capitalism is redefining the role of developers, and how innovative construction methods like lightweight timber can cut costs and carbon emissions. Robert also lays out the staggering numbers behind the crisis: a $290 billion shortfall in social and affordable housing, and the economic risks of inaction — including the threat of civil unrest.The conversation challenges the myth that profit and purpose are mutually exclusive, showing instead how private capital, community land, and government policy could combine to unlock large-scale solutions. We also explore global models like inclusionary zoning, what Australia can learn from them, and the need for a national pipeline of prefabricated housing.If you’ve ever wondered why governments keep stalling, what’s holding back institutional investment, and what it will really take to solve this crisis, this episode is essential listening. The message is clear: housing for all isn’t optional — it’s the foundation of a stable, productive, and fair society.Episode Highlights00:00 – Introduction01:51 – The Journey and Motivation Behind Housing All Australians03:04 – Compassionate Capitalism and Private Sector Involvement04:10 – Strategies and Initiatives for Affordable Housing05:52 – Success Stories and Case Studies09:51 – Challenges and Economic Imperatives21:23 – Comparing Global Approaches to Affordable Housing26:21 – Innovative Construction Techniques and The Green Project27:57 – The Cost of Urban Growth and Housing Diversity28:51 – Timber Construction and Its Benefits30:43 – Innovations in Construction Techniques33:15 – The Role of Government and Private Sector in Housing35:18 – Addressing Homelessness and Housing Affordability37:30 – Unlocking Empty Bedrooms for Key Workers43:11 – Final Thoughts and RecommendationsAbout the GuestRobert Pradolin is the founder of Housing All Australians, a national for-purpose organisation working to harness the resources of the private sector to deliver housing solutions for vulnerable Australians. With a 40-year career spanning greenfield subdivisions to high-rise towers, Robert has held senior roles in some of the country’s largest property companies.His journey from mainstream development to housing advocacy was sparked by a confronting realisation: while the industry was serving those who could afford it, government had abandoned its responsibility to house society’s most vulnerable. Since then, Robert has become one of the most vocal advocates for treating housing as essential economic infrastructure, not just social welfare.Through Housing All Australians, he has spearheaded projects repurposing vacant buildings into temporary shelter, advanced economic research on the cost-benefit of social housing, and promoted innovative construction methods to reduce costs and emissions. His vision of “compassionate capitalism” challenges the perception of developers as greedy profiteers and instead calls for a business-led response to one of Australia’s most urgent crises.Connect with RobertWebsite: https://housingallaustralians.org.au/about-us/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-pradolin/ResourcesVisit our website: https://www.theelephantintheroom.com.auIf 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.auLooking for a Sydney Buyers Agent? https://www.gooddeeds.com.auWork with Veronica: https://www.veronicamorgan.com.auLooking for a Mortgage Broker? alcove.com.auWork with Chris: chrisbates@alcove.com.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-podcastSubscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-elephant-in-the-room-property-podcast/id1384822719Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Ge1626dgnmK0RyKPcXjP0?si=26cde394fa854765If 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 & Chris

NIMBY vs YIMBY? Is saying “no” to change protecting community character — or blocking the homes our cities desperately need? In this episode, we sit down with Jonathan O’Brien, lead organizer of YIMBY Melbourne, to unpack what’s at stake when communities resist — or embrace — change. We dig into whether opposing development is simply selfish or a legitimate defense of lifestyle and character, and whether YIMBY optimism sometimes overlooks practical realities. From heritage streetscapes and leafy suburbs to missing-middle density and downsizer demand, this is a frank look at the trade-offs that come with growth. Jonathan also explores the politics of planning: why local councils resist, why states override, and why those locked out of housing are the most under-represented stakeholders in the debate. We tackle sensitive questions about fairness: who pays when new homes aren’t built, and who loses when change does come? If you’ve ever wondered why housing reform feels so stuck, and why both sides of the NIMBY/YIMBY divide can be right and wrong at the same time, this episode will challenge assumptions and reframe the conversation. Episode Highlights 00:00 – Welcome 01:14 – Jonathan O'Brien's and YIMBY Melbourne 01:48 – Progress and Challenges in Melbourne's Housing Policy 03:21 – Success Stories and Comparisons with Sydney 04:44 – Docklands: A Controversial Development 07:39 – The Missing Middle and Medium Density Housing 22:06 – Balancing Heritage and Development 28:39 – Planning Regulation Challenges 30:01 – Developer Strategies and Urban Planning 31:39 – Heritage and Housing Density 32:47 – Quality Concerns in New Developments 35:07 – Zoning and Urban Planning Dynamics 38:27 – Economic and Social Impacts of Rezoning 41:53 – Balancing Development and Community Needs 50:13 – State vs. Local Control in Urban Planning 52:05 – Conclusion and Final Thoughts About the Guest Jonathan O’Brien is the lead organizer of YIMBY Melbourne, an advocate for smarter housing policy, and an award-winning writer and publisher. A passionate voice for effective altruism and urban reform, he works to shift the conversation around density, planning, and affordability toward more equitable outcomes. With a background in community organizing and a commitment to evidence-based change, Jonathan brings both sharp analysis and lived experience to the often polarizing debate between NIMBYs and YIMBYs. His mission: to help shape cities that are inclusive, adaptable, and built for the next generation. Connect with Jonathan Website: https://jonobri.com/ YIMBY Melbourne website: https://www.yimby.melbourne/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jonobridotcom/ X: https://x.com/jonobri LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonobri/ 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? alcove.com.au Work with Chris: chrisbates@alcove.com.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.

Dive into the world of commercial property with expert Helen Tarrant. Discover the unique challenges and rewards compared to residential investing. Learn how mindset plays a crucial role and why education is essential to avoid costly errors. Uncover the key drivers of property value, from lease terms to tenant quality. Explore the benefits of syndication for smaller investors and the pitfalls to watch out for. Get practical strategies for managing tenant risks and enhancing portfolio value, all aimed at empowering both seasoned and new investors.

Australia’s strata sector is under pressure — and it's no longer a niche issue. Following high-profile investigations by Four Corners and 7.30 Report, strata governance failures, building defects, and financial blowouts are now front and centre. With more Australians living in apartments and townhouses than ever before, what happens next in this space will impact millions. In this episode, Kate McHugh, co-founder of the Strata Futures Stakeholder Engagement and Roundtable, joins us to unpack what’s driving the crisis—and what needs to change. Drawing from her work on the Strata Futures Report, Kate outlines the six key reform pillars that emerged from cross-sector collaboration, covering everything from governance and professional standards to owner advocacy and sustainability. We explore how opaque commissions, underfunded capital works, power imbalances, and a fragmented regulatory system are eroding trust in strata—and why many apartment owners are left feeling blindsided by defects and skyrocketing levies. Kate also shares what it would take for the sector to turn itself around—before government intervention does it for them. Whether you're a strata owner, buyer, investor, or professional, this episode offers critical insight into the future of high-density living in Australia.   Episode Highlights 00:00 – Welcome 02:09 – The Strata Sector's Challenges 04:14 – Governance and Regulation Issues 05:08 – The Round Table Initiative 11:54 – Sustainability in Strata 17:13 – The Six Pillars of Reform 26:07 – Understanding Strata Obligations 27:19 – The Importance of Maintenance and Governance Data 28:30 – Investing in the Strata Sector 29:08 – Personal Mission to Improve Property Decisions 30:18 – Challenges in Strata Education and Awareness 31:29 – Public Awareness and Training Initiatives 33:32 – Strata Management and Building Maintenance 37:00 – The Future of Strata Development 40:30 – Sector Collaboration and Task Force 44:14 – Final Thoughts and Call to Action Mentions Strata Futures - https://www.katemchugh.net/strata-futures About the Guest Kate McHugh is the co-founder of the Strata Futures Stakeholder Engagement and Roundtable and co-author of the Strata Futures Report. With a background in governance, policy, sustainability, and stakeholder engagement, Kate works at the intersection of lived experience and systemic reform in Australia’s strata sector. Partnering with former NSW Strata Commissioner John Minns and a wide network of industry and consumer leaders, Kate helped convene a cross-sector discussion to explore what’s broken—and what could be rebuilt. The outcome: a collaborative report outlining six key reform areas designed to make strata more equitable, transparent, and functional. Her work is helping push the conversation forward at a time when strata’s role in housing affordability, sustainability, and urban planning has never been more critical. Connect with Kate Website: https://www.katemchugh.net/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katemchughh/   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? alcove.com.au Work with Chris: chrisbates@alcove.com.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.

With property data becoming increasingly available, investors face a growing challenge: accurately interpreting the numbers. In this episode, Veronica and Chris speak with Matija Djolic, co-founder of HtAG Analytics, to discuss how investors can effectively use property data and avoid common mistakes. Matija outlines four essential questions investors need to address before making decisions, emphasizing the importance of clearly understanding risk profiles, investment timeframes, and personal objectives. He highlights frequent pitfalls, including chasing short-term gains, misunderstanding suburb-level data, and misinterpreting market "hotspots." This conversation equips investors with practical insights on responsible data use, clarifying when data can help… and when it might mislead. Whether you're an experienced investor or a first-time buyer, you'll gain valuable strategies for making smarter property decisions in today's data-rich environment. Episode Highlights 00:00 – Welcome 01:42 – The Origin of HtAG Analytics 03:35 – Key Questions for Property Investment 04:56 – Understanding Risk in Property Investment 12:35 – The Role of Data in Property Markets 15:30 – Challenges of Data Interpretation 17:57 – The Impact of Data Accessibility 24:37 – Strategies for Property Investment 34:11 – Navigating Tricky Real Estate Decisions 34:28 – Connecting with Veronica Morgan's Resources 35:12 – Understanding Property Scarcity and Sales Volume 36:01 – The Role of Data Accuracy in Real Estate 38:04 – Tech and Human Expertise in Real Estate 40:21 – Challenges with Real Estate Transparency 41:55 – The Importance of Personal Touch in Real Estate 43:10 – Buy and Hold vs Transacting Property 44:53 – Key Metrics for Long-Term Property Investment 46:11 – Affordability and Shifting Demographics 51:42 – Compounding Good Decision Making 55:32 – Common Myths in Real Estate 58:04 – Property Dumbo: A Cautionary Tale About the Guest Matija Djolic is the co-founder of HtAG Analytics and a leading data analytics coach specializing in the property investment sector. With a PhD in Organizational Psychology, Matija brings over seven years of experience guiding thousands of investors and buyer's agents through the complex maze of market analytics. Known for his expertise in both qualitative and quantitative pattern recognition, Matija empowers investors to make smarter, data-driven decisions that align with their long-term goals and risk profiles. His practical, no-nonsense approach challenges traditional investment assumptions, encouraging a more nuanced and informed understanding of property analytics. Connect with Matija Website: https://www.htag.com.au/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-matija-djolic-386475152/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/matijadjolic/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/matija.djolic.14/ 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.

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.