Have you ever stopped to think about what actually happens to the property market when a big weather event hits? In this episode, we’re tackling a topic that’s becoming more and more relevant, especially after ex-Cyclone Alfred swept through parts of Queensland and northern New South Wales. We’re talking about the real impacts of natural weather events – floods, bushfires, cyclones, and extreme heat – on lending, insurance, and property values.

We’ve seen firsthand how these events affect homeowners and buyers. Meighan shares what it’s like packing up everything before a weather event, and we both reflect on personal stories: like her dad’s laundromat in Lismore and how often they had to evacuate. It’s not just the damage; it’s the emotional toll, the disruption, and the long road to recovery. But there’s also a bigger picture here: how the market reacts, how affected and unaffected properties start to shift in value, and why the price gap can change drastically.

We walk you through what you need to know to manage risk when you’re buying, because we don’t want you to end up in a property you can’t insure properly or, worse, can’t sell when you need to. We cover flood maps, bushfire zones, overland flow, insurance exclusions, building codes… all the things that can really affect your long-term experience as a homeowner. It’s not about scaring you off, it’s about making sure you go in with eyes wide open.

There’s a lot to consider, but it comes down to being thorough with your due diligence. If you’re prepared and you know what to look for, you can absolutely make a smart and informed decision, even in areas where natural disasters are a reality. And let’s face it, that’s most of Australia.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 - Introduction

03:34 - What actually happens to property markets when a major weather event occurs?

07:24 - Properties affected by floods or disasters drop more in value than unaffected ones

08:49 - In hot markets, people still pay top dollar, even for flood-prone properties

11:55 - Short-term effects of natural disasters on insurance and lending

14:11 - Loan approvals can depend on location risk

16:03 - What if insurance doesn’t cover temporary accommodation?

18:48 - The biggest natural disaster risks in Australia buyers should know about

21:34 - Top 5 steps to manage risk as a first time home buyer

29:12 - What to look for in an insurance policy when buying in disaster-prone areas

34:31 - Should you buy in an area with natural disaster risks?

Resources:

• FREE MINI COURSE: How to price property like a professional https://www.homebuyeracademy.com.au/freecourse
• Meet our recommended mortgage brokers at Home Buyer Academy https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/brokers
• Visit our website https://www.homebuyeracademy.com.au/
• Join our Facebook Group to get access to free monthly live Q&A sessions
• https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourfirsthomebuyerguideaustralia
• Learn how to buy property without making a mistake with our ultimate 10-step online course for first time home buyers https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/YFHBG
• If you have any questions or would like to be featured on our show, contact us at: Your First Home Buyer Guide Podcast [email protected]
• Looking for a Sydney Buyers Agent? https://www.gooddeeds.com.au
• Work with Veronica: https://www.veronicamorgan.com.au
• Looking for a Brisbane Buyers Agent? https://www.propertypursuit.com.au/
• Work with Meighan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meighanwells/

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