Imagine turning up at auction ready to bid, only to find yourself blown out of the water by buyers paying emotional prices far beyond logic. That’s what many Melbourne buyers are experiencing right now.

In this episode of How’s the Market, Tristan Larkin and James Rankin break down why Melbourne auctions feel out of control and what you can do about it. From clearance rates trending sharply upwards since January, to underquoting, FOMO-driven buyers, and the ripple effects of interest rate cuts and first-home guarantee changes, they explain what’s really driving the frenzy.

They also share practical strategies for buyers to stay competitive without overpaying. From making pre-auction offers to building relationships with agents and auctioneers, and even practicing “strategic patience,” you’ll hear real-world examples of how clients avoided overspending and still secured great properties.

What You’ll Learn:

• Why Melbourne auction clearance rates have surged compared to last year
• How FOMO is fueling emotional bidding and record-breaking results
• The role underquoting and shifting reserves play in buyer frustration
• How government schemes and interest rate cuts are adding fuel to the fire
• Why timing matters if you want to settle before Christmas
• Smart strategies: pre-auction offers, networking with agents, and reading auctioneers
• The importance of “strategic patience” in a hot market

If you’re bidding in Melbourne right now or planning to soon don’t miss this episode. Tristan and James lay out the tools you need to stay in the game, avoid buyer burnout, and secure the right property without paying overs.

👋 About the Show

How’s The Market is Melbourne’s go-to podcast for buyers who want to make smarter property decisions. Hosted by Tristan Larkin and James Rankin from Tomii Property, we bring you expert tips, market insights, and real stories from the frontlines of real estate, finance, and construction. Auctions, rates, off-markets — we’ve got you covered.

🔗 Resources & Links

Join our mailing list & read the blog → www.tomii.com.au

Subscribe for weekly auction results → www.tomii.com.au/auction-results

Follow Tristan on TikTok & Instagram → @tristanlarkin

Follow James on TikTok & Instagram → @james__rankin

Imagine turning up at auction ready to bid, only to find yourself blown out of the water by buyers paying emotional prices far beyond logic. That’s what many Melbourne buyers are experiencing right now.

In this episode of How’s the Market, Tristan Larkin and James Rankin break down why Melbourne auctions feel out of control and what you can do about it. From clearance rates trending sharply upwards since January, to underquoting, FOMO-driven buyers, and the ripple effects of interest rate cuts and first-home guarantee changes, they explain what’s really driving the frenzy.

They also share practical strategies for buyers to stay competitive without overpaying. From making pre-auction offers to building relationships with agents and auctioneers, and even practicing “strategic patience,” you’ll hear real-world examples of how clients avoided overspending and still secured great properties.

What You’ll Learn:

• Why Melbourne auction clearance rates have surged compared to last year
• How FOMO is fueling emotional bidding and record-breaking results
• The role underquoting and shifting reserves play in buyer frustration
• How government schemes and interest rate cuts are adding fuel to the fire
• Why timing matters if you want to settle before Christmas
• Smart strategies: pre-auction offers, networking with agents, and reading auctioneers
• The importance of “strategic patience” in a hot market

If you’re bidding in Melbourne right now or planning to soon don’t miss this episode. Tristan and James lay out the tools you need to stay in the game, avoid buyer burnout, and secure the right property without paying overs.

👋 About the Show

How’s The Market is Melbourne’s go-to podcast for buyers who want to make smarter property decisions. Hosted by Tristan Larkin and James Rankin from Tomii Property, we bring you expert tips, market insights, and real stories from the frontlines of real estate, finance, and construction. Auctions, rates, off-markets — we’ve got you covered.

🔗 Resources & Links

Join our mailing list & read the blog → www.tomii.com.au

Subscribe for weekly auction results → www.tomii.com.au/auction-results

Follow Tristan on TikTok & Instagram → @tristanlarkin

Follow James on TikTok & Instagram → @james__rankin

Imagine buying a beautifully renovated home only to discover months later that the works weren’t council-approved, your insurance won’t cover damage, and you might have to spend tens (or hundreds) of thousands to fix or demolish the improvements.

In this episode of How’s The Market, Tristan Larkin and James Rankin unpack Section 137B Reports what they are, what they’re not, and why they matter for Melbourne buyers. They explore how these reports can reveal unapproved renovations, missing permits, and even works that aren’t built to code. More importantly, they explain how these disclosures shift all the risk to the buyer.

From real-world examples of buyers being left with demolition orders to lender finance risks and insurance claim nightmares, this episode is a must-listen if you’re house-hunting in Victoria. Tristan and James share a recent case study where they advised a client to walk away from a stunning property after uncovering major risks hidden in the contract saving them from a potential financial disaster.

What You’ll Learn:

• What a Section 137B Report actually is and when it’s required
• The difference between “disclosure” and true council approval
• Why these reports can protect vendors but expose buyers
• Key risks: council action, insurance refusal, and finance rejections
• Red flags to look out for in special conditions
• Why getting your own building & pest inspection is crucial
• Real-world examples of when to walk away—no matter how beautiful the property

If you’re bidding at auction or reviewing a contract with a 137B in it, don’t miss this one. Tristan and James break down exactly what to check, who to speak to (conveyancer, building inspector, council), and how to protect yourself from nasty surprises after settlement.

👋 About the Show

How’s The Market is Melbourne’s go-to podcast for buyers who want to make smarter property decisions. Hosted by Tristan Larkin and James Rankin from Tomii Property, we bring you expert tips, market insights, and real stories from the frontlines of real estate, finance, and construction. Auctions, rates, off-markets — we’ve got you covered.

🔗 Resources & Links

Join our mailing list & read the blog → www.tomii.com.au

Subscribe for weekly auction results → www.tomii.com.au/auction-results

Follow Tristan on TikTok & Instagram → @tristanlarkin

Follow James on TikTok & Instagram → @james__rankin

FOMO in Melbourne’s Property Market: When to Stretch and When to Walk Away | Ep 41

With interest rate cuts looming, the First Home Guarantee kicking in, and media headlines buzzing about rising prices, Melbourne buyers are rushing back into the market many driven by pure FOMO. But how do you know when stretching your budget makes sense and when it’s smarter to walk away?

In this episode of How’s The Market, Tristan Larkin and James Rankin unpack the psychology behind Melbourne’s current FOMO wave, why cafes and open homes are buzzing with property talk, and how emotional bidding can quickly spiral into overpaying. From auction lines stretching around the block to buyers tapping into the Bank of Mum and Dad, this is the reality of Melbourne’s spring market in motion.

Drawing on real-world auction stories, market data, and hard-won buyer strategies, Tristan and James reveal the signals to watch, the pitfalls to avoid, and the limits you should set to keep your property journey on track.

What You’ll Learn:

• How interest rate cuts, media hype, and the First Home Guarantee are fuelling buyer urgency
• Why Melbourne’s spring auction calendar is creating a “pressure cooker” environment
• The role of emotional buffers when paying 3–5% extra is reasonable and when it’s too much
• Why frustration and urgency often push buyers past their walk-away point
• The truth about overpaying: when it might catch up and when it won’t
• How to educate yourself on value by attending opens, auctions, and playing the “price game”
• Why some properties are still selling below the quoted range, despite all the hype

Packed with insights, practical strategies, and cautionary tales, this episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating Melbourne’s competitive market whether you’re a first home buyer, upgrader, or simply trying to avoid the trap of paying too much.

👋 About the Show

How’s The Market is Melbourne’s go-to podcast for buyers who want to make smarter property decisions. Hosted by Tristan Larkin and James Rankin from Tomii Property, we bring you expert tips, market insights, and real stories from the frontlines of real estate, finance, and construction. Auctions, rates, off-markets — we’ve got you covered.

🔗 Resources & Links

Join our mailing list & read the blog → www.tomii.com.au

Subscribe for weekly auction results → www.tomii.com.au/auction-results

Follow Tristan on TikTok & Instagram → @tristanlarkin

Follow James on TikTok & Instagram → @james__rankin

What the First Home Guarantee Changes Mean for Melbourne Buyers | Ep 40

The government’s First Home Guarantee changes are set to take effect on October 1st, and they’re already creating ripples across Melbourne’s property market. From unlimited scheme places to increased price caps and the removal of income limits, these shifts are designed to make it easier for first home buyers to enter the market but what do they really mean in practice?

In this episode of How’s The Market, Tristan Larkin and James Rankin unpack the reforms, how they differ from existing schemes, and the likely flow-on effects for Melbourne buyers. Will it open the door for more people to break into the market, or will it simply push prices higher in already competitive suburbs?

Drawing on past policy changes, current buyer sentiment, and predictions for which property types and suburbs will feel the sharpest impact, we break down the opportunities and risks you need to be aware of.

What You’ll Learn:

• How the new First Home Guarantee changes differ from current schemes
• Why Melbourne’s $950k price cap may not go far enough
• Which property types like villa units are set to feel the biggest price pressure
• The truth about borrowing power, serviceability, and LMI savings under the scheme
• How stamp duty still plays a crucial role for buyers, despite the 5% deposit promise
• Why population growth and limited supply mean these changes could accelerate price rises

Packed with real-world insights, examples, and predictions, this episode is essential listening for anyone planning to buy in Melbourne whether you’re a first home buyer trying to break in, or simply watching how these changes could reshape the market.

👋 About the Show

How’s The Market is Melbourne’s go-to podcast for buyers who want to make smarter property decisions. Hosted by Tristan Larkin and James Rankin from Tomii Property, we bring you expert tips, market insights, and real stories from the frontlines of real estate, finance, and construction. Auctions, rates, off-markets — we’ve got you covered.

🔗 Resources & Links

Join our mailing list & read the blog → www.tomii.com.au

Subscribe for weekly auction results → www.tomii.com.au/auction-results

Follow Tristan on TikTok & Instagram → @tristanlarkin

Follow James on TikTok & Instagram → @james__rankin

Do You Really Need a Buyer’s Agent? | Ep 39

Buyer’s agents are becoming a bigger presence across Melbourne’s property market - especially in hotly contested suburbs like Boroondara, Stonnington, Yarra, and Port Phillip. But what does that mean for everyday buyers? Should you consider engaging one yourself, or is it possible to go it alone?

In this episode of How’s The Market, we break down the rise of buyer’s agents, the advantages they bring to the table, and the key tipping points where having one on your side could make all the difference. From dealing with real estate agents you don’t fully trust, to navigating fast-moving auctions and making sure you don’t overpay, we’ll cover the scenarios where a buyer’s agent can protect you — and when you might be fine without one.

We’ll also unpack whether all buyer’s agents are created equal, and how to assess whether working with one is the right move for you.

What You’ll Learn:

• Why buyer’s agents are becoming more common at Melbourne auctions
  
  
• The key challenges buyers face without professional representation
  
  
• The “tipping points” where engaging a buyer’s agent could save you time, stress, and money
  
  
• How buyer’s agents level the playing field when competing for scarce stock
  
  
• Why not all buyer’s agents are the same - and what to look for if you’re considering one

This episode is packed with insights to help you decide if working with a buyer’s agent is right for your situation - or if you’re better off tackling the market solo.

👋 About the Show

How’s The Market is Melbourne’s go-to podcast for buyers who want to make smarter property decisions. Hosted by Tristan Larkin and James Rankin from Tomii Property, we bring you expert tips, market insights, and real stories from the frontlines of real estate, finance, and construction. Auctions, rates, off-markets - we’ve got you covered.

🔗 Resources & Links

Join our mailing list & read the blog → www.tomii.com.au

Subscribe for weekly auction results → www.tomii.com.au/auction-results

Follow Tristan on TikTok & Instagram → @tristanlarkin

Follow James on TikTok & Instagram → @james__rankin

Melbourne’s Market Outlook – Why the Big Banks Are Lifting Their Price Forecasts | Ep 37

Interest rates are on the move and so are the forecasts. In this episode of How’s The Market, we break down why the big banks have just upped their property price predictions for Melbourne and what it means for buyers and sellers heading into the final stretch of the year.

We’ll unpack how lower interest rates are already influencing buyer behaviour, what history tells us about market momentum in cutting cycles, and why 2025 and 2026 could look very different to the start of the year’s forecasts. Plus with only a handful of good auction weekends left before the holidays we’ll share our thoughts on how to navigate the tight stock situation and position yourself to make a smart move.

What You’ll Learn:

• The key shifts in ANZ’s latest Melbourne price growth forecast for 2025 and 2026
• How past rate-cutting cycles have driven housing demand and price momentum
• Why lower rates change auction dynamics and buyer competition
• The stock shortage challenge  and how the spring calendar could impact your strategy
• Why the next few weeks might be your best buying window before year-end

This episode is packed with timely insights to help you understand the forces shaping Melbourne’s property market right now - and how to adjust your game plan accordingly.

👋 About the Show

How’s The Market is Melbourne’s go-to podcast for buyers who want to make smarter property decisions. Hosted by Tristan Larkin and James Rankin from Tomii Property, we bring you expert tips, market insights, and real stories from the frontlines of real estate, finance, and construction. Auctions, rates, off-markets — we’ve got you covered.

🔗 Resources & Links

Join our mailing list & read the blog → www.tomii.com.au

Subscribe for weekly auction results → www.tomii.com.au/auction-results

Follow Tristan on TikTok & Instagram → @tristanlarkin

Follow James on TikTok & Instagram → @james__rankin

Timing the Offer: When to Strike in a Private Sale | Ep 36

You don’t need to be Harvey Specter to negotiate like a pro - but you do need the right timing, tactics, and information.

In this episode of How’s The Market, we’re diving into the private sale process: when to strike, what questions to ask, and how to position your offer to win without overpaying. If you’ve ever felt unsure about how to approach a non-auction property, this one’s for you.

What You’ll Learn:

• The first question you should ask the agent (hint: it’s not “why are they selling?”)
• How to uncover the vendor’s motivation and tailor your offer strategy accordingly
• What “rules of engagement” agents follow - from silent auctions to two-bid processes
• Why speed can win deals - and when it’s worth doing a building inspection in week one
• How to read between the lines and outsmart your competition without overplaying your hand

This episode is packed with actionable strategies to help you master the timing game in private sales - so you can secure the right home at the right price.

Tune in now and get ready to level up your negotiation game..

👋 About the Show

How’s The Market is Melbourne’s go-to podcast for buyers who want to make smarter property decisions. Hosted by Tristan Larkin and James Rankin from Tomii Property, we bring you expert tips, market insights, and real stories from the frontlines of real estate, finance, and construction. Auctions, rates, off-markets — we’ve got you covered.

🔗 Resources & Links

Join our mailing list & read the blog → www.tomii.com.au

Subscribe for weekly auction results → www.tomii.com.au/auction-results

Follow Tristan on TikTok & Instagram → @tristanlarkin

Follow James on TikTok & Instagram → @james__rankin

The Auction Isn’t Over: How to Win When a Property Passes In | Ep 35

Most buyers dread a property passing in —  but in reality, it’s often your best chance to secure a great deal.

In this episode, we’re diving into what really happens when a property doesn’t sell under the hammer, and how you can use that moment to your advantage. From understanding what “passed in” actually means, to insider negotiation tactics and real-life case studies — we’re giving you the full breakdown.

What You’ll Learn:

• What "passed in" actually means — and why the highest bidder gets first shot at negotiating.
  
  
• What to expect after the auction ends — including vendor reserve disclosures, sudden price changes, and pressure tactics.
  
  
• How to prepare like a pro — from comps and walk-away numbers to spotting vendor motivation.
  
  
• Clever negotiation strategies — like slowing things down, buying time, and anchoring your offer just above the final bid.
  
  
• Real-world examples — including purchases well below the quoted range and one that beat out a renovated unit in the same block.

If you’ve ever walked away confused after a passed-in auction, this episode gives you the clarity and confidence to turn it into a winning opportunity.

Tune in now and learn how to play the post-auction game to your advantage — because sometimes, the real deal starts after the gavel drops.

👋 About the Show

How’s The Market is Melbourne’s go-to podcast for buyers who want to make smarter property decisions. Hosted by Tristan Larkin and James Rankin from Tomii Property, we bring you expert tips, market insights, and real stories from the frontlines of real estate, finance, and construction. Auctions, rates, off-markets — we’ve got you covered.

🔗 Resources & Links

Join our mailing list & read the blog → www.tomii.com.au

Subscribe for weekly auction results → www.tomii.com.au/auction-results

Follow Tristan on TikTok & Instagram → @tristanlarkin

Follow James on TikTok & Instagram → @james__rankin

Pre-auction offers can feel like the fast-track to buying a home  no crowds, no auctions, no stress. But going in early isn’t always the smart move. In fact, it can cost you big if you get it wrong.

In this episode, we unpack when a pre-auction offer actually makes sense, how to execute it the right way, and most importantly  when to hold off.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

• When it is the right time to offer early  like when the vendor’s already bought, or the home is wildly underquoted
  
  
• The warning signs that say don’t offer yet  like slow campaigns or persistent agent follow-ups
  
  
• How to move quickly and strategically  including getting contracts reviewed and inspections done early
  
  
• Real examples of what we did in a falling market vs. a heated one and why
  
  
• The biggest mistakes buyers make when offering pre-auction  and how to avoid them

If you’ve ever wondered whether you should offer early or wait for auction day, this episode gives you the strategy to decide with confidence.

Listen now so you can play the pre-auction game like a pro.

👋 About the Show

How’s The Market is Melbourne’s go-to podcast for buyers who want to make smarter property decisions. Hosted by Tristan Larkin and James Rankin from Tomii Property, we bring you expert tips, market insights, and real stories from the frontlines of real estate, finance, and construction. Auctions, rates, off-markets — we’ve got you covered.

🔗 Resources & Links

Join our mailing list & read the blog → www.tomii.com.au

Subscribe for weekly auction results → www.tomii.com.au/auction-results

Follow Tristan on TikTok & Instagram → @tristanlarkin