

The Elephant In The Room Property Podcast | Inside Australian Real Estate
Veronica Morgan & Chris Bates
Who's really in control when you buy a property?
The Elephant In The Room is where the things that no one wants to talk about, actually get talked about.
Veronica Morgan, real estate agent, buyers agent and co-host of Foxtel’s Location Location Location Australia & Chris Bates, financial planner, mortgage broker and wealth coach have joined forces to find out what’s really going on in the world of real estate.
Veronica and Chris talk to property owners and buyers every day in their respective lines of business. They’ve observed a wide spectrum of confidence in people’s decision making ability when buying and selling property, often to the detriment of the individuals concerned. They are both fascinated by consumer behaviour and together they’re going to uncover who’s really making the decisions when you buy a property.
In each episode they get into the psyche of buyers, agents, auctioneers and other industry experts to learn the truth about how buyers are influenced and why they do the things they do. In every episode you’ll learn from the mistakes of a “property dumbo” as well as Chris & Veronica’s “elephant rider bootcamp” training session.
The plan? This property podcast has been created to help us all make better property decisions!
The Elephant In The Room is where the things that no one wants to talk about, actually get talked about.
Veronica Morgan, real estate agent, buyers agent and co-host of Foxtel’s Location Location Location Australia & Chris Bates, financial planner, mortgage broker and wealth coach have joined forces to find out what’s really going on in the world of real estate.
Veronica and Chris talk to property owners and buyers every day in their respective lines of business. They’ve observed a wide spectrum of confidence in people’s decision making ability when buying and selling property, often to the detriment of the individuals concerned. They are both fascinated by consumer behaviour and together they’re going to uncover who’s really making the decisions when you buy a property.
In each episode they get into the psyche of buyers, agents, auctioneers and other industry experts to learn the truth about how buyers are influenced and why they do the things they do. In every episode you’ll learn from the mistakes of a “property dumbo” as well as Chris & Veronica’s “elephant rider bootcamp” training session.
The plan? This property podcast has been created to help us all make better property decisions!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 24, 2024 • 58min
Queensland’s Housing Crunch: What Can Be Done to Ease the Strain?
With Queensland’s housing market facing an unprecedented crunch, many are left wondering: What can be done to ease the strain? The consequences of this housing crisis are far-reaching, affecting individuals, families, and communities across the state because it's not just about finding a roof over your head anymore. With housing prices soaring and options dwindling, the dream of owning a home is slipping out of reach for many Queenslanders. Today, we have Jackson Hills from Q Shelter — Queensland’s leading authority on housing and homelessness services. With years of experience and expertise in the field, you can trust him to give us the lowdown on what's really going on. Tune in as we break down the housing crisis in plain and simple terms and figure out what we can do to make things better. Your home is your sanctuary – let's work together to keep it that way. Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Introduction 01:05 - Who is Jackson Hills? 02:08 - Making sense of the complex issues on Australia’s housing crisis 05:18 - How can we promote inclusive housing policies that benefit all sectors of society? 09:20 - What are some of the more acute housing problems in Queensland vs other states? 13:36 - Understanding the impact of oversupply concerns on property prices 15:31 - How feasible is the build-to-rent sector considering current challenges? 19:19 - What factors are influencing landlords' decisions to increase rents? 21:49 - Ways governments can aid build-to-rent and community housing? 24:50 - Can private developers profitably engage in build-to-rent on government-owned land? 32:03 - How can developers contribute to designing inclusionary planning frameworks? 37:37 - Understanding the universal housing continuum 42:29 - Insights on rising rental prices resulting in displacement 45:45 - Are there any developers focusing on more than just selling or renting units? 48:20 - Jackson Hills’ property dumbo About Our Guest: Jackson Hills, Manager of Policy and Strategic Engagement at Q Shelter, brings over 15 years of experience in not-for-profit and community organisations, previously serving with Tennis Australia, the AFL, and the Australian Sports Commission. With a master’s in business administration from SCU and accreditations from the AICD, Jackson leads efforts at Q Shelter, Queensland’s primary body for housing and homelessness services. He also serves on the Board of Common Ground Gold Coast, the executive committee of National Shelter, and advises at Collective Leisure, alongside mentoring at the Gold Coast Youth Service. Connect with Jackson Hills: LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackson-hills-3702a825/ Website https://qshelter.asn.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.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.

Mar 17, 2024 • 60min
Why Is Negative Gearing Making Headlines Again?
Negative gearing and its companion, the capital gains tax discount, have reemerged as hot topics in economic and political circles. But why does it matter? Well, it affects investors, homeowners, and the economy as a whole. There's a lot of confusion about what it all means and what might happen next. In this episode, we explain what negative gearing and the capital gains tax discount are all about. We clear up any confusion and explore why they're in the news again. By the end, you'll have a better grasp of these topics and what they mean for you. Tune in to learn why negative gearing is making waves and what it could mean for your finances. Whether you're a seasoned investor or just curious, this episode will give you the insights you need to understand the headlines. Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Introduction 02:06 - Why is negative gearing back in the headlines again? 04:40 - What are some of the unintended consequences of negative gearing? 06:28 - What is negative gearing? 10:22 - Why is negative gearing controversial? 12:30 - Understanding property investment yields and capital growth 16:49 - Capital gains concession tax and how it works 20:30 - How can investors benefit from changing the capital gains tax 27:30 - How could modifications in negative gearing influence the property market? 33:36 - Is it true that negative gearing contributes to making housing less affordable? 40:01 - How do these tax changes affect the housing market? 44:46 - Are there potential repercussions in removing negative gearing? 47:25 - How can borrowing capacity reductions slow down portfolio investors? 50:29 - Do current tax rules reward "bad behaviour" in property investment? 55:24 - Chris discusses the potential negative impact of attacking negative gearing 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.

Mar 10, 2024 • 59min
The Data Conundrum: Brisbane’s Boom, Hobart’s Decline, and Perth’s Renaissance Revealed
The real estate landscape is constantly evolving, and recent data has unveiled surprising trends in Australian cities' property markets. Brisbane's boom, Hobart's unexpected decline, and Perth's resurgence raise intriguing questions and we're unsure if the numbers we're seeing are telling us the whole truth. Are these trends indicative of long-term changes, or are there underlying factors that could challenge our understanding of the data? In this episode, we are once again joined by Eliza Owen, the Head of Research at CoreLogic Australia whose vast experience in housing market research makes her an authority on key issues such as housing affordability, credit conditions, and the impact of external factors like the COVID-19 pandemic on the housing market. If you're thinking about buying or selling a house, this episode could help you make better decisions. So join us and gain a better understanding of the data conundrum shaping Australia’s property market landscape. Let’s get started. Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Introduction 01:14 - Who is Eliza Owen? 02:22 - Are experts predicting positive trends for the housing market in 2024? 05:17 - How can Brisbane's dwelling values be higher than Melbourne's despite lower prices? 12:01 - What factors are driving the shift in migration patterns away from Sydney? 14:11 - Differences between Brisbane, Hobart, and Perth's property markets 17:48 - Understanding the factors influencing property prices beyond internal migration 19:19 - What factors influence borrowing capacity for property purchases? 21:36 - How is investor behaviour impacting the stability of the housing markets? 25:38 = Criteria used to identify rentvestors and owner-occupiers in the housing market 28:03 - Understanding Eliza’s women and property report 40:29 - How research methods account for women who co-own properties with male partners 50:44 - How financial literacy influences consumer response to reduction in interest rates 53:52 - What changes have occurred in property market drivers since Eliza started? About Our Guest: Eliza Owen is an experienced property data analyst with a background in economics. She has worked for Residex, Domain Group, and CoreLogic, specialising in descriptive and inferential data analysis, data visualisation, and framing data trends with broader economic concepts. Eliza is also a passionate communicator who explains economic concepts to diverse audiences. She has presented on the TEDX stage, written for prominent publications, and been a regular commentator on commercial radio and television. Eliza is a popular keynote speaker, having presented to audiences in real estate, construction, banking and finance, property development, and consumer markets. Connect with Eliza Owen: Follow Eliza on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eliza-owen-2554ab65/ Visit their website: https://www.corelogic.com.au/ Resources mentioned in this episode: CoreLogic Australia’s Women and Property Report 2024 https://www.corelogic.com.au/news-research/reports/women-and-property-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.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.

Mar 3, 2024 • 51min
Rental Pressures in 2024: Analysing Trends and Forecasts
Are rental pressures set to continue in 2024, or is there hope for easing in certain areas? Securing a rental property is becoming increasingly challenging in 2024, posing difficulties for landlords and tenants alike. For property investors, it’s about facing the task of strategically investing their funds. Meanwhile, tenants are faced with the uncertainty of rising rental rates and limited housing options. Today, we are joined by our resident data geek, Kent Lardner to dissect these pressing issues. With Kent's expertise in analysing real estate trends, he brings invaluable insights into the factors shaping the rental market landscape in 2024. Tune in to get some helpful tips and actionable takeaways in dealing with the rental market in 2024. Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Introduction 01:00 - Kent's approach to investigating the outlook for the rental market in 2024 04:41 - The difference in gathering and reporting rental data compared to sales data 06:32 - Analysing the current state and potential future developments in the rental market 09:06 - The challenges of housing affordability and the resulting trends 14:07 - Rental trends in the context of affordability and price increases in various capital cities 18:55 - Key factors influencing equity and borrowing capacity for investors 21:12 - Does prefab construction offer a solution to housing affordability? 26:09 - The dynamics of affordability and price increases in Brisbane, Melbourne, Sydney 30:27 - Why is the majority moving OUT of Sydney? 34:45 - Displacement in the rental market and its implications on supply and demand 36:43 - The potential impacts of legislative reforms on rental data transparency 42:23 - What role should policymakers play in addressing rental insecurity? 43:45 - What steps can be taken to ensure equitable access to affordable housing for all? 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 Suburbtrends, 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.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.

Feb 25, 2024 • 54min
How Do First Home Buyer Incentives Impact Affordability?
Do first home buyer incentives actually help make housing more affordable, or do they unintentionally worsen affordability issues? As the debate surrounding first home buyer incentives continues, we seek to understand their true effect on property prices and overall housing affordability. Governmental interventions, such as lending to first home buyers, raise questions about the source of funding and who ultimately benefits from these policies. Today, we are joined by property valuer, Will Phillips — whose extensive research and expertise in property valuation brings valuable insights into how first home buyer incentives are affecting the housing market. Tune in to this episode as we explore the complexities of first home buyer incentives and gain a deeper understanding of how these policies are affecting housing affordability and the broader socio-economic landscape. Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Introduction 01:04 - Who is Will Philips? 03:25 - Why does Perth exhibit higher rates of homeownership in contrast to other areas? 09:34 - How Will separated macro-environmental factors from incentives in his research 14:24 - Do Perth residents benefit from simplified housing access? 16:46 - What's the impact of keystart loans on suburban financial trends? 19:39 - Do incentives create imbalance between new and established markets? 22:17 - What challenges do homeowners in suburbs face amid recent price changes? 26:45 - Examining the correlation between mortgage rates and long-term unemployment 30:44 - Additional questions arising in the discussion about homeownership and employment 37:20 - What's Will's take on Perth's investor appeal amid changing market factors 39:54 - Will's philosophy on assessing risk and return in property investment 42:48 - How does owner-occupier appeal differ between Perth and Southeast Queensland? 47:01 - Exploring the relationship between market dynamics and build quality 49:05 - Will Phillips’ property dumbo About Our Guest: Will Phillips is a property valuer with a 15-year career spanning Australia's diverse landscape. Beginning in South-East Queensland, he assessed properties in urban and remote areas before gaining unique insights in Outback NSW, Outback QLD, Coastal QLD, and Western Australia. Coupled with a Master of Economics (2023), Will dedicated his "spare time" to a 20,000-word dissertation investigating the impact of the mining industry, first home buyer grants and low deposit home loans on Western Australia's property market over the past 20 years. His extensive experience equips him with unparalleled insights into regional dynamics and market cycles across Australia. Connect with Will Phillips: LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/will-phillips-cbre/ 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.

Feb 18, 2024 • 57min
What Are the Unseen Challenges in Managing the Surge of New Dwellings in Strata?
Are we adequately prepared for the consequences of the rapid surge in apartment construction and the subsequent increase in strata dwellings? As we witness a significant increase in the number of new dwellings within strata schemes, it's essential to assess whether our current strata management practices are sufficient to handle the associated challenges. From potential conflicts among residents to the strain on resources and infrastructure, the implications of this rapid growth in strata dwellings are far-reaching and require careful consideration. Today, we're joined by Michael Teys, an experienced consultant who specialises in strata management. With over three decades of hands-on experience in the field, Michael has a deep understanding of how strata systems work. He's also written several easy-to-understand books about strata management and has helped lots of strata communities with his expert advice. Don't miss out on this opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the evolving landscape of strata management – tune in now! Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Introduction 01:07 - Who is Michael Teys? 01:48 - How does Australia stand out in terms of strata? 05:26 - Will Sydney continue to see more buildings deemed unsafe? 09:00 - Could individual past owners of buildings face lawsuits for building neglect in Australia? 12:03 - What can Australia learn from global solutions for building issues? 17:31 - The importance of having more proactive steps for Australian strata issues 21:19 - Why and how the government could potentially help in addressing strata issues 29:34 - What can be done to improve the strata property purchasing processes? 35:15 - What property investors and home buyers should understand about strata levies 36:29 - How do global policies tackle strata safety and developer accountability across borders? 39:37 - How can potential buyers obtain reliable safety information about strata properties? 44:49 - What strategies could be considered to ensure building safety remains a priority? 49:56 - Where to find hope amidst the challenges and discussions within the strata community? 52:50 - Michael Teys’ property dumbo 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.

Feb 11, 2024 • 1h 1min
Can YIMBYs Revolutionise Urban Living Without Compromising Quality?
The YIMBY (Yes In My Backyard) movement proposes increasing urban density while maintaining the quality of life. This raises questions about the potential impact on developer profits, the power struggle between YIMBYs and NIMBYs, and the broader implications for city planning and community dynamics. Join us as we talk with Melissa Neighbour, an urban planner, community builder, and the co-founder of Sydney YIMBY. With her extensive experience and expertise in sustainability, Melissa is uniquely positioned to shed light on the intricacies of the YIMBY movement and its potential to reshape urban landscapes. Listen to this episode to learn about the YIMBY movement and its implications for urban living. Get insights into the future of city planning and the ongoing argument between YIMBYs and NIMBYs. Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Introduction 01:23 - Who is Melissa Neighbour? 02:31 - What is the origin of the Sydney YIMBY movement and how has it been growing? 05:10 - How do YIMBYs reconcile urban development's impact on infrastructure? 08:34 - Do YIMBYs shift their views and become NIMBYs after buying property? 12:24 - How does the YIMBY movement aim to influence urban planning reforms? 18:32 - Addressing the challenges that arise from negative perceptions of development 23:53 - What is “design done well” 25:56 - How does housing diversity impact the realisation of the Great Australian Dream? 31:01 - Is zoning alone enough to solve housing supply issues? 32:56 - What is the balance between development and preservation in urban infill? 35:25 - Strategies for addressing housing supply constraints within the planning system 42:12 - What additional changes are necessary to create a fair market environment? 43:11 - How can urban development balance heritage preservation and housing density? 46:48 - The role of investment returns, affordability, and preferences in property trade-offs 53:01 - What role does planning play in high-density development success? 59:36 - Melissa Neighbour’s property dumbo About Our Guest: Melissa Neighbour is an urban planner, community builder and sustainability specialist. She is the owner and Director of Sky Planning, a purpose-driven town planning consultancy based in Sydney, and co-founder of Sydney YIMBY. She has developed and implemented award-winning sustainable development projects across Australia, and is a strong advocate for building progressive, inclusive cities that unleash and amplify your peak potential as a human being, while regenerating the natural environment. Melissa regularly consults to government and industry and presents at major fora including TEDx, on the innovations, trends and forces that are shaping urbanism and defining our communities. Connect with Melissa Neighbour: LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissaneighbour-future-city/ Website https://www.sydney.yimby.au/ Twitter https://twitter.com/missneighbour 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.

Feb 4, 2024 • 49min
Strata Due Diligence, Manager Woes, Land Tax Strategies, East Coast vs. Perth, and Modular Homes – Listener Q&A Session
Join us in today's episode as we tackle real estate head-on, responding to questions from our listeners that hit close to home. Ever found yourself rushing to perform strata due diligence on a property about to slip through your fingers? We've got you covered with practical strategies for navigating this time-sensitive challenge. And what do you do when your strata manager seems to have disappeared into thin air? We share practical and effective advice on effective communication to break through those managerial roadblocks. For investors struggling to understand the complexities of land tax, we break down the tipping point for selling, ensuring you make informed decisions about your investment portfolio. Dive into the regional dynamics of property markets as we explore why East Coast property enthusiasts might turn their noses down at Perth real estate. We discuss the cultural perceptions influencing this divide. Plus, get the lowdown on the rising trend of modular and kit homes, helping you separate fact from fiction in this innovative housing landscape. Tune in for a no-nonsense Q&A session, where we tackle real estate challenges, providing insights that will empower your investment journey. Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Introduction 01:05 - How to conduct thorough due diligence solely with vendor-provided strata reports? 10:15 - When should investors sell in Sydney considering land tax impact? 15:59 - Veronica shares a property dumbo related to land tax 28:49 - Is building with pre-built and modular homes economically viable? 35:56 - What to do if strata manager ignores queries on solar panels and insurance? 41:12 - Is there a Perth property market misconception among East Coasters? Resources mentioned in this episode: The Elephant in the Room Property Podcast Episode #308: Pros vs Cons: Relying on Vendor-Paid Pre-Purchase Inspection Reports https://www.theelephantintheroom.com.au/podcasts/308 Listen to the Your Strata Property Podcast https://yourstrataproperty.com.au/listen-to-podcasts/ 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.

Jan 28, 2024 • 58min
Why Are Housing Prices Rising Amidst an Affordability Crisis?
Have you ever wondered why, despite the widely recognised affordability crisis in Australia, housing prices continue to soar? This puzzling situation raises questions about how the housing market works and what it means for those trying to buy a home or invest in property. In today's episode, we talk to senior economist Paul Ryan from REA Group’s PropTrack. Paul's been digging into real estate trends for quite a while, and he's got a practical grasp of the subject. His straightforward insights into what's driving housing prices gives us a clear picture of the current market. If you'd like to understand why homes are becoming more expensive even in the face of affordability concerns, or maybe you're curious about the disconnect between affordability and rising prices, this episode is for you. Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Introduction 01:06 - Who is Paul Ryan? 01:56 - Paul’s take on the 2023 property market coming into 2024 03:57 - Factors behind the decline in housing turnover over the past decade 06:09 - How are economic factors affecting the downsizing phase of homeownership? 08:49 - What role does Australia's economic well-being play in housing affordability? 10:39 - Metrics used to assess affordability and which one labels Australia as highly-priced 16:24 - How will intergenerational wealth transfer impact future housing affordability? 19:02 - Strategies on the government's roadmap for housing challenges in the next decade 22:08 - How Paul thinks the shortage of homes in desirable locations should be tackled 30:23 - Is the COVID-driven home builder initiative really causing a profitless boom for builders? 33:12 - Should heritage preservation take precedence over urban densification? 36:27 - Explain the inconsistency of crowded living and spare bedrooms near the CBD 39:29 - How can the real estate industry make downsizing more appealing for empty nesters? 43:05 - What factors contribute to the surprising affordability of buying versus renting? 45:26 - Exploring the RBA's mindset during periods of slowing inflation 50:47 - What’s the disconnect: 40% negative cash flows, but no widespread property sales? 54:45 - Paul Ryan’s property dumbo About Our Guest: Paul Ryan is an economist at REA, specialising in housing finance, market forecasting and big data analysis. Before joining REA in December 2020, Paul spent a decade at the Reserve Bank of Australia conducting research on the Australian economy, focusing on housing markets, lending risks and regulatory effects on property markets. Paul is based in Sydney. Connect with Paul Ryan: LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-ryan-524ba456/ Read Paul’s articles here https://www.realestate.com.au/news/author/paul.ryan/ Visit PropTrack’s Website https://www.proptrack.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.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.

Jan 21, 2024 • 52min
What’s Driving Property Market Moves Among Aussie Expatriates?
Have you been keeping an eye on how the world's reopening is influencing the choices of Australian expats in the real estate market? Wondering if the trend of returning home is on the rise or if new destinations are emerging as hotspots for Aussies living abroad? What's really happening now that the world is opening up again? Are Aussies flocking back home, or are they still loving the expat life? In today's episode, we sit down with Brett Evans from Atlas Wealth Management to get into the real deal about Australians living overseas and their impact on the property market. He's seen it all and knows the ins and outs of why Aussies are choosing to live where they do. We also tackle money matters as we all know that while living abroad can be exciting, it also comes with its own set of financial challenges. So Brett gives us the lowdown on taxes, investments, and all that important stuff that can make or break the expat experience. Tune in and let's dive right into the world of Aussie expats and understand their impact on the property market. Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Introduction 01:02 - Who is Brett Evans? 01:56 - How has the expat community evolved in the years following 2021? 05:06 - Brett provides insights into the tax implications for expatriates working globally 10:50 - Is working for Australian companies from overseas becoming more common? 13:52 - Three distinct silos or groups identified in expatriate perspectives 15:13 - Factors affecting property buying behaviour among Australian expats 22:52 - Tax implications for expats when they return to Australia for a limited period 24:01 - What concerns arise for Australian retirees regarding asset sales when retiring abroad? 27:36 - How proper advice mitigates the risks of costly decisions for expatriates 31:49 - Horror stories about mistakes people make when purchasing property abroad 35:45 - Are there noticeable patterns in expatriates moving and returning? 40:35 - What considerations shape investment choices for Australians overseas? 45:50 - Does Brett consider the 2021 policy on expatriate properties short-sighted? 49:00 - Brett Evans’ property dumbo About Our Guest: Brett Evans, founder and Managing Director for the EMEA region at Atlas Wealth Management, boasts over 24 years in finance and investments, with roles at major firms like ASX, HSBC, Suncorp, and Citigroup. Specialising in financial advice for Australian expats, he established Atlas in 2011, serving clients across 38 countries. A seasoned expat himself, residing in Dubai, Brett holds a Bachelor of Commerce and various financial diplomas. Both he and Atlas Wealth Management have received numerous awards for their outstanding advice to Australian expats. Connect with Brett Evans: LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/brettaevans22/ Website https://atlaswealth.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.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.