In this episode, we examine the ACCC’s investigation into REA Group and whether Australia’s leading real estate portal is misusing its market dominance. With vendors and agents under pressure from rising listing costs, we unpack the economics behind online advertising, growing use of off-market listings, and how competition (or lack of it) is shaping vendor behaviour.

We also touch on:

• The price disparity between Balmain and Mount Druitt listings
• Domain’s recent $3 billion acquisition by CoStar
• The May rate cut’s effect on auction clearances, now just above 50%
• Rising inflation figures and how they might influence the RBA’s next move

As mentioned in this episode, listen to our previous discussion around REA market dominance here.

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The RBA has delivered a 0.25% interest rate cut, opting for a cautious step down while acknowledging growing international risks. In this episode, Ciaran O'Brien and Peter O'Malley break down what this move signals for property buyers, investors, and the broader economy.

We examine the deteriorating labour market, wage growth dynamics, and why a global economic downturn could reshape the Australian property landscape. From Scott Pape’s warning to Westpac’s workforce cuts, we connect the dots on how this cycle might play out.

Sydney’s auction clearance rates remain stuck below 50%, the housing shortage worsens, and winter conditions start to chill market activity.

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Hosts Ciaran O'Brien and Peter O'Malley unpack renewed activity in Sydney's property market as the first "clean weekend" since mid-April brings more buyers through open homes—yet clearance rates linger at just 46%.

We look ahead to the anticipated 0.25% RBA rate cut on May 20 and explore ongoing rental market strength, signs of stagflation, and political pressures influencing housing policy. Plus, we discuss growing concerns around personal banking privacy after a controversial move by the Commonwealth Bank.

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Hosts Ciaran O'Brien and Peter O'Malley dissect the RBA’s controversial decision to hold rates during the federal election—despite inflation now sitting comfortably within target bands and business conditions described as “putrid” across multiple sectors.

With Sydney auction clearance rates collapsing to 44%, high vendor withdrawals, and predictions of a 0.5% cut in May, we explore whether the RBA’s delay will cost households and the broader property market. We also analyse how the Labor government’s decisive win and immigration policy will affect housing supply and rental pressure moving forward.

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On this week's Current Market Insights - Harris Partners' Peter O'Malley joined 'Ugly Phil' O'Neil on 2GB Nights to discuss all things property. In this insightful chat, they discuss market trends over this Easter/ANZAC Day holiday period, the role of the Bank of Mum & Dad in the housing market and the risks in friends pooling together to purchase a property. You can listen to the full chat here

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Hosts Ciaran O'Brien and Peter O'Malley take a hard look at the NSW Government’s underquoting reforms, which have resulted in just 95 fines—each a mere $2,200—doing little to curb misleading price guides in Sydney’s high-stakes market. With buyers now instinctively adding 10–25% to quoted prices, transparency is collapsing, and trust is eroding.

We break down why the current system enables compliant underquoting, how buyers and vendors are responding, and what lies ahead as the market enters a typically slower stretch around Easter, Anzac Day, and the looming federal election.

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Hosts Ciaran O'Brien and Peter O'Malley unpack the global trade tensions rattling the Australian economy as Trump-era tariffs hit allies like Australia with a 10% sting—and China even harder. We explore how this “generational reset” in trade is stirring uncertainty across the property market and why the RBA may be forced into multiple emergency rate cuts.

From volatility in the prestige sector to weak auction results and market patchiness, we assess the current landscape and the smarter strategies agents and vendors should consider as economic pressures mount.

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Hosts Ciaran O'Brien and Peter O'Malley break down the Federal Government’s Budget and its ambitious housing plan, which aims to address Australia’s housing crisis by increasing supply beyond what the private sector can deliver alone. With targets for 1.2 million new homes, increased social housing investment, and changes to planning and infrastructure, we explore what this means for buyers, renters, and investors.

We also discuss the latest market trends, including declining auction clearance rates, tightening rental supply, and the impact of upcoming NSW tenancy law reforms. With inflation easing, will we see further rate cuts to support the market?

As mentioned on the show, listen to our previous podcast on No Grounds Evictions in NSW.

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Hosts Ciaran O'Brien and Peter O'Malley reveal how every listing, price change, and failed auction creates a permanent digital record that can impact your property's value. With property data companies storing this information indefinitely, sellers must be strategic about pricing, timing, and online exposure.

We discuss how failed auctions, underquoting risks, and even unrelated online content can affect buyer perceptions. Understanding your property’s digital footprint is key to protecting its value in an era where every detail is just a search away.

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Hosts Ciaran O'Brien and Peter O'Malley analyse the impact of the recent RBA interest rate cut on Sydney’s property market, where premium properties are attracting intense buyer interest while generic listings struggle.

We break down shifting stock levels, auction clearance rates, and the rental market’s renewed tightening. With investment properties moving to owner-occupiers and immigration consuming housing supply, we examine whether another rate cut in April or May will be enough to stimulate demand. Tune in for insights on how market conditions are evolving and what it means for buyers and sellers alike.

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As always if there is a specific topic you would like for us to cover, please reach out and let us know!