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

We’re all familiar with energy ratings on appliances and cars, but what if your home came with one too? Could this be where the housing market is headed? Today, we sit down with Cecille Weldon, Australia’s top expert in residential energy efficiency, to explore what this could mean for the future of housing. Could energy ratings become the next game-changer in real estate? Cecille breaks it down for us — how homes might be rated, who will cover the costs, and whether property buyers and tenants are really willing to pay more for energy-efficient living. With rising energy costs and climate change in the spotlight, this couldn’t be a more timely discussion. We also talk about the big moves happening behind the scenes with Cecille giving us the scoop on her work with the NSW Government’s Sustainable Homes team, which is pushing for energy ratings to become a standard at the point of sale or rent. It’s all about making homes healthier, more comfortable, and cheaper to run in the long term. Tune in to understand how these upcoming changes could reshape the property landscape — and what it potentially means for your next move. Let's get started! Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Introduction 01:12 - Who is Cecile Weldon? 02:29 - How has livability and sustainability evolved in the property industry since? 05:27 - What role does energy efficiency play in property value beyond just purchase price? 09:05 - How are rising energy costs affecting buyers' decisions in the property market? 13:03 - The complexities of property value and buyer behaviour in the property market 19:35 - Are homeowners choosing kitchen upgrades over energy efficiency improvements? 21:31 - Will energy efficiency standards for properties be mandatory or voluntary in Australia? 25:51 - Will energy efficiency improvements be viewed as non-essential expenses? 30:10 - How properties are going to be assessed for energy efficiency plus potential costs 32:56 - Will living in a home for 10-15 years drive the adoption of energy-efficient solutions? 38:34 - How homeowners can make energy-efficient changes without big expenses 43:13 - Are investors in Victoria required to upgrade to new energy standards? 47:10 - Challenges in the real estate sector regarding energy efficiency upgrades 50:45 - What challenges exist for upgrading energy efficiency in strata buildings? 53:00 - How to encourage strata owners to prioritise cladding safety upgrades? 58:07 - Cecille Weldon’s property dumbo About Our Guest:   Cecille Weldon is the founder of Future Agent Academy and director of Weldonco Advisory, recognised as one of Australia's leading experts in residential energy efficiency, property value, and the property marketing sector. An accomplished Proptech entrepreneur with a background in real estate, franchising, research, communications, and education, Cecille provides insights on consumer demands, the impact of climate change, and new regulations in the property industry. With qualifications including a BA, DipEd, and GradDipLing, she has developed courses for real estate agents and serves on various boards, including the Proptech Association and the REEDI Forum. Cecille's passion lies in enhancing property capabilities, emphasising the importance of energy efficiency in boosting property value, and addressing the need for healthier, more affordable homes. Connect with Cecille Weldon: LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/cecille-weldon-56100a13/ Weldonco's Website https://www.weldonco.com.au/ Future Agent's Website https://www.futureagent.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.flintgroup.au Work with Chris: chrisbates@flintgroup.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’s really going on in Australia’s property market? In this episode, we sit down with Cameron Kusher, Executive Director of Economic Research at REA Group, to unpack the trends shaping the Australian property market right now. With access to some of the country’s most comprehensive property data, Cameron sheds light on what buyers are searching for, where listings are rising, and how this all connects to transactions and prices. We dig into regional differences in price growth—why places like Perth and Adelaide are surging, while Melbourne struggles—and what’s driving these changes. Cameron explains how the rental market is finally loosening up, making it easier for sellers to transition, and we discuss the growing influence of investors in certain areas. We also talk through the impact of interest rates and how expectations of future cuts are influencing sellers’ behaviour. There’s a fascinating shift happening with buyers too—more selectiveness, fewer bidders at auctions, and changing preferences driven by necessity rather than desire. We touch on how affordability is pushing renters out to the fringes, and Cameron shares insights into how the work-from-anywhere trend is reshaping migration patterns. This episode really gets under the hood of the property market. If you’re curious about how things are tracking and what’s around the corner, you won’t want to miss it! Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Introduction 01:09 - Who is Cameron Kusher? 01:39 - How is the spring market shaping up for real estate? 03:33 - Spring selling season dynamics 06:02 - Regional market trends and price divergence 08:26 - Is property market urgency on the rise based on recent search data? 14:00 - Perth's unique market conditions 17:25 - How does REA view the long-term decline in property turnover rates? 20:00 - Factors influencing established dwelling prices 23:20 - Which property types or areas show the best capital growth based on transaction data? 25:24 - Key factors that contribute to the established dwelling price movements 28:47 - Are relocation trends shifting based on geotagged property inquiries? 35:00 - Have you noticed a drop in online demand as rental price growth has slowed recently? 39:13 - Are you seeing trends in rental properties being sold as investors exit the market? 46:33 - What exciting innovations in buyer products are on the horizon at REA? 50:11 - Cameron Kusher’s property dumbo 50:42 - Is there alignment between the PIPA survey results and REA’s online user interest? About Our Guest: Cameron Kusher is the Executive Director of Economic Research at REA Group, with 20 years of experience across residential and commercial property sectors. His expertise spans valuations, property development, consulting, and market research, giving him a deep understanding of demographics, trends, and economics. Before joining REA, he spent over 11 years at CoreLogic as Head of Research for Australia. Cameron oversees the production of REA’s market reports and engages with media, customers, and industry stakeholders. Known as a thought leader, he frequently provides commentary, delivers keynote speeches, and writes on housing trends, demographics, mortgage markets, and industry opportunities. He holds a Bachelor of Applied Science in Property Economics from Queensland University of Technology. Connect with Cameron Kusher: Website https://realestate.com.au/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/cameron-kusher-bbb71b46/ 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.flintgroup.au Work with Chris: chrisbates@flintgroup.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.

How can it be that investors are both selling off properties and borrowing record amounts of money at the same time? In a market with rising interest rates, stricter tenancy laws, and increasing property taxes, why is investor activity still so high? And what does this say about the future of property investment in Australia? In this episode, we are joined by Stuart Wemyss from ProSolution Private Clients to dig into this situation and break down why, despite all the economic pressures, investor lending is hitting all-time highs in some regions, like Western Australia, while cities like Melbourne and Sydney are feeling the pinch. We talk about how government policies, borrowing capacities, and market psychology are driving these surprising trends. We also talk about the mindset behind continued property investment – especially in more affordable markets – and why the belief in property as a wealth builder remains so strong. There’s a lot more to it than just the numbers. So if you’re trying to wrap your head around what’s happening in the property investment space right now, this episode will give you the clarity and insight you need to make sense of it all. Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Introduction 01:13 - Who is Stuart Wemyss? 01:50 - Is now an ideal time for property investment? 07:01 - Did pre-2013 lending levels ever match today’s highs? 14:03 - Will banks create new products to help first home buyers enter the market? 16:42 - What's really behind the rising investor borrowing and selling rates? 19:13 - How is the shift to investment properties changing Australia's rental dynamics? 36:03 - Is there a shift in investor behaviour due to upcoming policy discussions? 38:53 - Is there growing interest in using superannuation to invest in property? 42:05 - How are current borrowers responding to the potential direction of interest rates? 43:45 - What attitudes are shifting among generations in the Melbourne property market? 52:10 - Stuart Wemyss’ property dumbo About Our Guest: Stuart Wemyss is a qualified chartered accountant, independent financial adviser and mortgage broker with over 20 years' experience. His business, ProSolution Private Clients, has helped hundreds of people invest successfully. Stuart is licensed to provide financial, credit and tax advice, which means he's able to give holistic advice.Stuart has always believed in the need for people to be able to access trustworthy, independent financial advice. Nothing upsets him more than to hear about selfish advisers ripping off their unsuspecting clients! This passion is what drives him daily to write books and blogs, publish podcasts, appear in the media, advise his clients, mentor his staff and give presentations &– whatever it takes to help more people access a source of unbiased information and advice. Connect with Stuart Wemyss: Follow Stuart on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stuartwemyss/ Check out Stuart’s book: https://www.prosolution.com.au/buy-investopoly/ Visit Stuart’s website: https://www.prosolution.com.au/ Listen to Stuart’s podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/investopoly/id1348458167 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.flintgroup.au Work with Chris: chrisbates@flintgroup.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.

Why are so many property investors pulling out of the market, and what’s driving this trend? In this episode, we dive deep into the findings of the 2024 PIPA Investor Sentiments Survey with Nicola McDougall, Chair of The Property Investment Professionals of Australia (PIPA). The survey uncovers some surprising data, challenging common assumptions about where and why investors are selling their properties. Nicola sheds light on the growing trend of investors abandoning the property market and shares insights into what’s fueling their decisions. Are rising interest rates to blame, or are there deeper, underlying factors at play? We explore how the shifting landscape is affecting the future of property investment in Australia. Join us as we discuss the current state of the market and explore strategies investors can consider amidst the uncertainty. Stick around for this eye-opening discussion as you wouldn’t want to miss these insights! Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Introduction 01:05 - Who is Nicola McDougall? 01:55 - Why Nicola’s last episode went viral, and if her new research has the same impact 04:29 - What internal and external insights emerged from the 2024 PIPA investor survey? 10:56 - A comparison of this year’s (2024) survey results from last year’s (2023) 13:07 - Why new investors are avoiding apartments and choosing established houses 14:41 - Is government intervention driving investors out of the market? 20:52 - Is government intervention worsening the rental crisis for investors? 28:36 - What’s driving investors to exit the market? 36:12 - Are there any positive results in the 2024 PIPA investor sentiment survey? 39:53 - PIPA's breakthroughs, and their role in maintaining high standards 45:18 - The importance of being a member of either PIPA/REBAA 50:25 - Nicola McDougall’s property dumbo About Our Guest: Nicola McDougall has served as the Chair of PIPA (Property Investment Professionals of Australia) since early 2022, bringing to the role her expertise as an award-winning property and finance journalist, author, and successful property investor. As the Director of Bricks & Mortar Media, she has co-authored notable works such as "The Female Investor: Creating Wealth, Security & Freedom Through Property," which secured the personal finance and investment category award at the 2022 Australian Business Book of the Year. Additionally, Nicola has contributed to the 3rd edition of "Property Investing For Dummies" and authored the 1st editions of "Buying a Property for Dummies" and "Property Investing Essentials for Dummies," all published in 2023 by Wiley. With a background as the former editor of Australian Property Investor magazine and head of corporate affairs at the REIQ, Nicola has been a dedicated PIPA board director since 2014. Connect with Nicola McDougall: Nicola’s LinkedIn profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicola-k-mcdougall/ Resources mentioned in this episode: The Elephant in the Room Property Podcast Episode #307: Why Are Investors Abandoning the Australian Rental Market? https://www.theelephantintheroom.com.au/podcasts/307 2024 PIPA Investor Sentiment Survey https://www.pipa.asn.au/pipa-annual-property-investor-sentiment-survey-2024/ 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.flintgroup.au Work with Chris: chrisbates@flintgroup.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.

Is equity the most underused wealth-building tool? Owen Rask believes it is—and we’re missing out by not tapping into it. In this episode, we sit down with Owen from the Rask Group to explore how equity, particularly in property, can be a game-changer for growing your wealth. From property investment to ETFs and self-managed super funds (SMSFs), Owen breaks down how leveraging equity can open up opportunities you may not have considered. We also get into financial literacy in Australia, and Owen has some sharp insights. While more people are paying attention to their finances, many are still making risky decisions due to a lack of understanding. Owen highlights the importance of asking the right questions and getting proper advice to avoid costly mistakes. Curious about SMSFs? Owen unpacks the risks and rewards of SMSF property investing and explains why it’s crucial to diversify. He also shares why you need to be cautious about SMSF lending schemes and one-stop-shop setups that might not always have your best interests at heart. As we look ahead, Owen talks about how AI could reshape financial advice and offers practical tips on how to protect yourself from scams in an increasingly digital world. This episode is packed with actionable insights that can help you take control of your financial future. Don’t miss it! Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Introduction 00:59 - Who is Owen Rask? 01:53 - Owen Rask’s take on the financial literacy in Australia 05:28 - Should you consider purchasing property through a self-managed super fund? 12:50 - What people need to think about before setting up an SMSF 16:03 - Where to go for guidance on managing your super effectively? 27:12 - Fractional property investment and what Owen thinks about it 34:13 - Is the perceived safety of ETFs being undermined by riskier funds? 37:21 - Is AI going to make it easier to get holistic and cost-effective advice? 50:40 - How to protect yourself from scams in an increasingly digital & tech-reliant environment 55:48 - Owen Rask’s property dumbo About Our Guest: Owen Rask is The Rask Group's Founder, and Chief Investment Officer of Rask Invest. He also co-founded and is a Partner at Inflection, the business accelerator. Owen holds Masters Degrees in Financial Planning and in Applied Finance, and a Bachelor's Degree of Technology. Owen co-hosts podcasts and live shows with over 200,000 unique monthly listeners. Rask has now enrolled 30,000 Aussies into free online finance courses, on a pathway to 100,000 before 2027. Connect with Owen Rask: Website https://www.rask.com.au/ Resources mentioned in this episode: The Wolf of Wall Street: Money Lessons & Financial Scams to Avoid https://bit.ly/3Bbdlkd 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.flintgroup.au Work with Chris: chrisbates@flintgroup.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.

Why do Alec and Bryce from Equity Mates think the next generation won’t own homes? In this episode, we have a chat with Alec Renehan and Bryce Leske, the co-founders of Equity Mates Media, to explore why more young Australians are steering away from the idea of property ownership and leaning towards investing in shares instead. We discuss how the wealth gap between those who can get financial help from family and those who can’t is influencing this shift. How is this gap making property less accessible for younger generations? And why are many looking to the stock market as a more viable option for building wealth? Throughout the episode, we cover the challenges young people face when trying to enter the property market and what they’re considering as alternatives. Alec and Bryce share their insights from years of working with young investors and reflect on the changing attitudes towards property and investing. If you’re curious about how investing mindsets are evolving, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Tune in and let's dive right into it! Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Introduction 01:05 - Who are our guests for today? 02:22 - Why is Equity Mates so successful as a podcast? 04:04 - How do you balance finance discussions and compliance? 08:12 - Are young Australians moving from property to equities for wealth building? 11:12 - The psychological security of property ownership 13:31 - Has international investing become more popular due to US tech success? 20:03 - Is bad advice also common in your industry due to people seeking easy solutions? 23:53 - How the focus on behavioural finance has changed their understanding of investing 26:49 - Lessons from investment errors reflect the serious impact of choosing the wrong path 31:15 - How Alec & Bryce balance their core investment strategies with new investment ideas 36:41 - After a recent purchase, did your perceptions of property investing change? 40:33 - The benefits of using a buyer’s agent and the importance of expert advice 50:05 - Is it true that the best property deals are reserved for those who pay for early access? 56:19 - Do you have a notable property investment fail story? About Our Guests: Alec Renehan and Bryce Leske are the cofounders of Equity Mates, Australia's #1 finance and investing brand for young Australians. They met at university and both developed a passion for investing. As they spoke to friends and family about their interest, they realised a lot of people faced the same challenges. So, they set out to record their journey of learning to invest, in the hope others would join them. Equity Mates Investing Podcast was started in 2017 and in the years since has grown a community of young investors in Australia and around the world. Connect with Alec and Bryce: Website https://equitymates.com/ Alec Renehan’s LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/alec-renehan/ Bryce Leske’s LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryce-leske/ Equity Mates Investing Podcast https://equitymates.com/show/equity-mates-investing-podcast/ Get Started Investing Podcast https://equitymates.com/show/get-started-investing-podcast/ 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.flintgroup.au Work with Chris: chrisbates@flintgroup.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.

Are you ready to find out where property investors are putting their money and what trends are shaping the market right now? In this episode, we dive deep into the latest suburb trends report and explore the surprising insights revealed by the latest property investment data. From unexpected investment hotspots in Sydney and Melbourne to some major shifts in regional markets like Perth and Adelaide, this conversation will give you a fresh look at where investors are heading—and why. We're joined by Kent Lardner, our resident property geek and we break down the numbers behind the rising trends in investor activity. We discuss how investor lending has been on the rise, why houses are dominating the market, and where clusters of activity are emerging across the country. If you’ve been wondering where the smart money is flowing, this episode will give you the answers. Tune in for an in-depth look at what the data is saying and what it means for investors right now. This is a must-listen for anyone keen to understand the latest movements in the property space! Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Introduction 01:00 - Analysis of the top 25 SA4 regions shows surge in house purchases in Sydney & Melbourne 03:11 - Detailed analysis of the top 25 SA4 regions 08:11 - Abundance of properties in & around Beverly Hill influenced by the new metro in Sydney 09:36 - Why are Sydney and Melbourne seeing increased interest in different property types? 16:13 - Could property investors buying apartments in Melbourne be influenced by land tax? 17:31 - What factors are influencing suburb choices in Perth right now? 19:02 - What are the major rental surge figures across Australia’s states? 23:53 - Is the surge in investor activity due to first time home buyers or new market areas? 27:13 - Comparing investment markets: Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane 39:29 - Has there been a notable rise in inventory, and how might this affect market prices? 45:06 - How are construction shortages and low approvals influencing the property market? 46:29 - Kent talks about his newly launched partnership with Faith Housing Australia About Kent Lardner: Kent Lardner is an expert data science and business leader with 30+ years of experience at leading companies like JLL, CoreLogic, and General Electric. He has led teams of 5 to 200 people across Australia and China, driven by his passion for high-growth digital businesses. Kent is also the founder of Suburb Trends, a leading property research firm trusted by major names in Australian property and featured in mainstream media. Connect with Kent Lardner: Kent Lardner’s LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/in/kentlardner Kent Lardner’s Website: https://suburbtrends.com/ 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.flintgroup.au Work with Chris: chrisbates@flintgroup.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.

Why is it so tough to ramp up housing supply when it seems like everyone’s talking about it? In this episode, we’re joined by Jill Garner, the Victorian Government Architect, who gives us a behind-the-scenes look at why boosting supply isn’t as simple as just setting targets. Jill brings her extensive experience to the table, sharing insights into the realities of urban planning and design from both government and industry perspectives. Jill helps us understand the challenges that come with trying to increase housing supply discussing the struggles that state and local governments face in balancing the need for more homes with the importance of good design and quality construction. She explains why meeting housing targets isn’t just about making plans—it’s about dealing with real-world obstacles like costs, time, and planning rules. Our conversation also touches on the “Future Homes” initiative, which aims to provide more housing options in Melbourne’s suburbs without sacrificing livability and explore why simply rezoning areas for higher density doesn’t automatically result in new homes and what’s really holding back development. This episode is perfect for anyone who wants to understand the real reasons behind the housing shortage and what needs to happen to make more homes available. The insights presented in this episode offer a clear look at the challenges and possibilities in solving this complex issue. So let's dive right into it! Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Introduction 01:06 - Who is Jill Garner? 02:38 - What is a government architect and their role in the Victorian government 05:04 - How does each level of government address housing supply and affordability issues? 08:02 - How does the state government coordinate with local councils in Victoria? 10:48 - Is Melbourne seeing similar government rhetoric on housing density as other places? 12:59 - Where is the disconnect between housing targets and actual construction? 15:33 - Can pre-designed homes compete with custom builds? 22:45 - Can rezoning truly improve housing affordability, or is something missing? 25:18 - Is the pushback on future homes driven by consumer resistance or developer concerns? 28:55 - How are Victoria's ongoing projects impacting developers' building costs and decisions? 33:28 - Is Melbourne better equipped for density with its transport system? 38:52 - How can Melbourne address city-level needs and past high-density apartment mistakes? 43:37 - Should other states follow Melbourne’s lead on sustainability and passive design? 48:24 - How are government plans for Melbourne adapting to the rise in remote work? 52:58 - Jill Garner’s property dumbo About Our Guest: Jill Garner, the first woman to serve as Victorian Government Architect, was appointed in 2015 and brings 40 years of experience in both practice and government. She leads a team promoting integrated design and collaboration within the state government. Jill continues her architectural practice through Garner Davis Architects, which has earned numerous awards. An RMIT Masters by Design alumnus, she has taught at RMIT and Melbourne Universities and served on several industry boards. Jill chaired the Australian Committee for the 2018 Venice Architecture Biennale and became a Life Fellow of the Australian Institute of Architects, receiving the President’s Prize in 2022. In 2023, she was appointed Member of the Order of Australia for her contributions to architecture, education, and professional associations. Connect with Jill Garner: Office of the Victorian Government Architect https://www.ovga.vic.gov.au/jill-garner Garner Davis Architects https://garnerdavis.com.au/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/jill-garner-ab5a214a/ 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.flintgroup.au Work with Chris: chrisbates@flintgroup.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.

How does the UK property market compare to ours here in Australia? In this episode, we sit down with Martin North from Digital Finance Analytics to really break it down. We’re diving into what makes the UK property market tick and how it stacks up against what we see in Australia. What are the key drivers over there? And how do they align—or differ—from what’s happening on our home turf? Martin’s got a ton of insights on property trends across the globe, and in our conversation, we dig into the unique factors shaping the UK market, from economic policies to how buyers behave. Are there things we can take away from the UK’s approach, or are we carving out our own distinct path here in Australia? We also get into how history and culture influence the property scene in each country. Are there common threads, or are the differences too big to ignore? Most importantly, what can Australian investors learn from the UK’s journey in the property market? If you’re looking to expand your knowledge of global property markets or just want a fresh perspective on what’s happening here in Australia, this conversation with Martin North is one you won’t want to miss. Tune in as we explore the dynamics of the UK and Australian property markets, and discover valuable insights that could impact your next investment decision. Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Introduction 00:57 - Who is Martin North? 03:48 - Can Australia gain confidence from the UK's inflation decline? 07:35 - How does the UK's property investment culture compare to that of Australia’s? 11:04 - Proportion of owner-occupier vs rented property in UK 13:51 - Has borrowing capacity in the UK stayed steady despite rate hikes? 18:55 - How does city migration in the UK compare to Australia? 21:30 - Is there a trend of early wealth transfer in the UK for earlier housing market entry? 26:40 - How do UK and Australian rental issues compare? 28:16 - Despite the UK investing more in social housing, why is there still a shortage? 32:51 - Has the existence of inheritance tax impacted entry into the housing market? 33:50 - Over 5 years of hosting "Walk the World", how have your views and insights evolved? 40:00 - How should one approach property investment after missed chances? 45:55 - How does Martin feel about the property market’s outcome? 49:58 - Can the UK manage the demand for millions of new homes? 51:51 - Martin North’s property dumbo About Our Guest: Martin North is a prominent researcher who specialises in the mortgage lending, savings payments, and superannuation sectors. He is the founder of Digital Finance Analytics — a boutique research, analysis, and consulting firm. He has a long history of research in mortgage stress in Australia and publishes relevant indices on defaults, mortgage stress, and consumer confidence. In addition to his work in finance, he curates the YouTube channel "Walk the World," where he covers finance and property news with a distinctively Australian flavour and invites controversial guests. He is also a founding director of Asbestos Awareness Australia, a registered charity he established with his late wife, Jill, in 2021. Connect with Martin North: Subscribe to Martin’s YT Channel “Walk the World”: https://www.youtube.com/c/walktheworlddfa Connect with Martin North on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/martin-north-6a799182/ Visit Martin North’s website: https://www.digitalfinanceanalytics.com/ 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.flintgroup.au Work with Chris: chrisbates@flintgroup.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.

Strata management—it’s one of those areas in property where things can get tricky if you’re not in the know. In this episode, we’re joined by Michael Teys, who’s been in the trenches of strata for years, tackling some of the biggest issues that come up in this space. If you’re involved in a strata scheme—whether as an owner, investor, or part of a committee—this is a conversation you just can’t afford to miss. Today, we dive into the real problems that strata communities face every day. From dealing with disputes that can turn neighbors into enemies to sorting out financial messes that can sink a scheme, he’s got the inside scoop on what works and what doesn’t. We also chat about the legal side of things—what’s changing, what’s staying the same, and how it all impacts you. But it’s not all doom and gloom. We also talk about how to keep the peace in a strata setup and why being proactive can save you a world of headaches. And as for the future? We touch on where strata management is heading and what that means for everyone involved. This is your chance to get a handle on the biggest issues in strata management today, straight from someone who’s seen it all. So, grab a coffee, settle in, and get ready to learn from one of the best in the business. Let's get started! Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Introduction 01:03 - Who is Michael Teys? 02:22 - What did the ABC Four Corners exposé reveal about controversial strata practices? 10:23 - How strata managers started charging like real estate agents, and how they can regain trust 16:50 - Are strata companies or owners to blame for management issues? 21:36 - What are the challenges in keeping good strata professionals? 30:11 - What are the obstacles to reforming strata management? 36:06 - Does unpaid service affect local government and strata roles? 40:01 - Are builders learning from past strata mistakes? Will quality improve? 44:17 - Given the current leadership vacuum, where might we see effective leadership emerge? 50:27 - Michael shares a lesson/humorous story in property that we can all learn from About Our Guest: Michael Teys is one of Australia’s leading strata experts. He works for corporate owners of strata property, property professionals and strata managers providing advisory, research and training on complex strata issues. With over 30 years’ experience in strata titled property issues, Michael is now an advisor to corporate and institutional owners of strata property. He is a member of the City Futures Research Centre at UNSW and provides training to strata managers and allied property professionals. Connect with Michael Teys: Website https://michaelteys.com/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelteys/ 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.blusk.au Work with Chris: hello@blusk.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.