Sam Black Sessions

An inside look at the “thrill of the chase” in property development — from spotting the perfect site to making smart, logical offers that beat emotional buyers without blowing your margins.

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of subdivisions and how savvy investors can manufacture equity and fast-track their portfolio growth. From deciding whether to buy in your personal name or through a trust or company, to understanding how to finance not just the purchase but also the renovation and subdivision costs — this is your complete guide. We unpack why subdividing first (rather than post-build) can unlock greater valuations, how to leverage that uplift to fund your construction without using more of your own money, and what consents you’ll need from council, surveyor, the bank, and more. We also clear up common myths around stamp duty and highlight the structuring traps to avoid. If you’re serious about turning one title into two and accelerating your property journey, this episode is a must-listen.

Development Insight with Ryan Houston

Money Chats Ep 36 (with Brenden Lowbridge)

Development Insight with Ryan Houston

Development Insight with Ryan Houston

Money Chats Ep 35 (with Brenden Lowbridge)

In this episode of Development Insights, we sit down with Ryan Houston to unpack the real challenges first-time developers face—particularly navigating the DA and CC process in NSW. We dive into key differences between a DA (which sets what you can do) and a CC (how you actually do it), the importance of early due diligence, and why engaging consultants—like town planners, heritage or soil experts—before purchasing a site can save you from costly mistakes. We touch on knowing your build costs via square meter rates, understanding planning controls, and building the right team around you to avoid development pitfalls.

In this episode, Sam and Brendan break down Labor’s new first homebuyer policies following the federal election. Key changes include a $1.5M purchase cap, no income threshold, and the Help to Buy scheme, where the government co-owns up to 40% of a home to boost affordability.

They explore how these changes could reshape buyer behaviour, unlock opportunities for essential workers, and shift demand in sub-$1M markets—while also questioning whether it’s a Band-Aid solution to the deeper housing crisis caused by limited supply.

A must-listen for first homebuyers, investors, and anyone navigating the changing property finance landscape.

In this episode, Sam and Brendan break down the real financial journey of a development project—from buying land to securing construction finance and managing interest costs. Using a $2 million duplex example, they explore the equity requirements, borrowing strategies, and key timing factors that can make or break a deal.

They discuss the importance of working with a builder early, understanding valuations, and avoiding costly surprises from lenders or rising build costs. Plus, they reveal why delays can eat heavily into profits and how to model interest during construction to stay on track.

Packed with practical insights, this episode is a must-listen for first-time and experienced developers alike.