“Our motto is simple: buy without regrets.” – Veronica Morgan

Sydney’s Inner West is one of the most complex and competitive property markets in Australia. In this episode of Street Secrets, buyers’ agent Veronica Morgan breaks down the suburb-by-suburb nuances that even seasoned locals get wrong. From one-way streets that turn into daily headaches, to aircraft noise that changes with the seasons, she reveals the hidden traps outsiders rarely see.

Veronica has spent over 25 years in real estate, with 18 years as a buyers’ agent and 16 years running her business, Good Deeds Property Buyers. She’s also a qualified property investment advisor and co-host of Location Location Location Australia. Her insider knowledge of Sydney’s Inner West, Eastern Suburbs, and Lower North Shore gives her a unique edge in guiding clients to smarter, safer buys.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why Sydney buyers are “tribal” and how bridges and roads shape demand

• The difference between A-grade, B-grade, and C-grade assets (and why it matters)

• What makes some Inner West pockets truly special — and others a long-term liability

• How Veronica uses “property therapy” to help clients align on the right decisions

If you’re planning to buy in Sydney, Veronica’s strategies will show you how to avoid regret, cut through suburb myths, and focus on quality assets that stand the test of time.

00:00 – Introduction

01:15 – Veronica Morgan’s Journey in Sydney Property

02:05 – Beyond Off-Markets: What Buyer’s Agents Do

04:38 – Sydney’s Inner West: Pockets and Micro-Markets

07:21 – Why Non-Locals Struggle in Sydney’s Market

24:40 – Negotiating with Agents: Experience vs. Tactics

27:37 – Property Therapy: Aligning Couples on Decisions

30:43 – Mentoring the Next Generation of Buyer’s Agents

33:21 – Final Thoughts: Smarter Property Decisions

Veronica Morgan is the founder and principal of Good Deeds Property Buyers, one of Sydney’s most respected buyers’ agencies. With over 25 years in real estate and 18 years as a buyer’s agent, she has built a reputation for helping clients secure quality assets in Sydney’s Inner West, Eastern Suburbs, and Lower North Shore.

She is a Qualified Property Investment Advisor (QPIA) and a familiar face as the co-host of Location Location Location Australia on Foxtel’s Lifestyle Channel. Veronica also co-hosts the popular podcasts The Elephant in the Room and Your First Home Buyer Guide, where she shares transparent, evidence-based advice for buyers.

Veronica combines sharp market insight with emotional intelligence to guide clients through high-stakes decisions. Whether working with first-time buyers or seasoned investors, her focus is clear: help people make informed choices and buy without regrets.

• Business webpage Link - https://veronicamorgan.com.au/
• Good Deeds Property Buyers webpage - https://gooddeeds.com.au/
• Linktree - https://linktr.ee/veronicamorgan
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronicakaymorgan/
• Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/veronicamorganproperty/
• Facebook (business page)- https://www.facebook.com/veronicamorganproperty/
• X - https://x.com/veronicakmorgan
• YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@veronicamorganproperty

• Business Webpage Link - https://www.alcove.com.au/
• Phone: 0489 913 227
• Email - [email protected]
• Socials: 
• LinkedIn (Alcove)  - https://www.linkedin.com/company/alcovemb
• LinkedIn (Chris) - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherbates/
• Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/alcove.au

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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!

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The information provided in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as financial, investment, or credit advice. It does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation, or needs. You should consider the appropriateness of the information to your circumstances and seek advice from a licensed financial adviser, mortgage broker, or other qualified professional before making any decision. Canopy Private Pty Ltd holds Australian Credit License 558709.

“The type of dwelling that people want in Brisbane is a detached house… but you’ve got to be careful where you buy.” – Pete Wargent

Brisbane might look affordable and straightforward, but buying well takes more than picking a suburb and a budget.

In this episode, Chris Bates sits down with Pete Wargent, co-founder of AllenWargent Property Buyers and long-time investor in the Brisbane market. Pete shares lessons from over a decade on the ground—why scarcity value matters more than suburb names, how affordability gaps with Sydney shaped Brisbane’s cycles, and why local knowledge about streets, aspects, and even traffic patterns often separates the best purchases from costly mistakes.

From renovated Queenslanders in leafy Ascot to townhouses in tightly held inner-ring pockets, Pete explains what makes some homes double in value while others stagnate. He also unpacks why interstate buyers often misread Brisbane, bringing southern habits north only to run into risks they never saw coming.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer or an investor eyeing Brisbane, this conversation gives you the on-the-ground insights to buy with clarity, avoid the pitfalls, and find real long-term value.

00:00 — Introduction

01:28 — Meet Pete

02:24 — How Market Exposure Shaped Pete’s Investing

03:39 — Why Every Suburb Has Good and Bad Parts

04:22 — Pete’s Books, Podcasts & Experience

06:18 — Brisbane Demand: Families and Detached Homes

09:20 — Why Interstate Buyers Struggle in Brisbane

10:38 — Flood Maps, Zoning & Supply Cycles

14:29 — High-Rise vs. Boutique Apartments

23:11 — Detached Homes, Townhouses and Units

26:51 — Agent Relationships and Off-Market Deals

29:26 — Lessons from 13 Years in Brisbane

34:25 — Conclusion and Where to Find Pete

Pete Wargent is a co-founder of AllenWargent Property Buyers, a boutique buyer’s agency operating in Sydney, Newcastle, and Southeast Queensland. He has been a buyer’s agent since 2011, following a career as a chartered accountant with Deloitte. Pete is also a property investor, having built experience in markets across the UK (London, Cambridge) and Australia (Sydney, Brisbane).

Beyond buyer’s advocacy, Pete is a published author of eight books on investing and property, a media commentator, and co-host of the Australian Property Podcast with Chris Bates. Today, he focuses on helping clients secure quality properties in growth markets, with a particular specialty in Brisbane’s inner-ring suburbs.

• Business webpage Link - https://petewargent.com/
• Email - [email protected]
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/pete-wargent-37228322/
• Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/petewargent/
• Facebook (business page)- https://www.facebook.com/PeteWargent/
• Facebook (blog page) - https://www.facebook.com/pwargent/
• X - https://x.com/PeteWargent
• Daily Blog (blogspot) - https://petewargent.blogspot.com/

• Business Webpage Link - https://www.alcove.com.au/
• Phone: 0489 913 227
• Email - [email protected]
• LinkedIn (Alcove)  - https://www.linkedin.com/company/alcovemb
• LinkedIn (Chris) - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherbates/
• Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/alcove.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/@street-secrets
• Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/street-secrets/id1837331268
• Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7sBYmpcuxCYwceQiHdBnaq?si=2Gdl60HRRWCBoUlcBHB0nA

The information provided in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as financial, investment, or credit advice. It does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation, or needs. You should consider the appropriateness of the information to your circumstances and seek advice from a licensed financial adviser, mortgage broker, or other qualified professional before making any decision. Canopy Private Pty Ltd holds Australian Credit License 558709.

"Just 'cause it's on the same street, that doesn't necessarily mean it's worth the same price."

– Frank Russo

Buying property in Sydney’s eastern suburbs isn’t just about location — it’s about strategy, foresight, and knowing where the hidden value lies.

In this episode of Street Secrets, Chris Bates sits down with Sydney-based buyer’s agent Frank Russo, founder of Search Find Invest, who shares insights from over 12 years in the industry.

From his builder background to negotiating multi-million-dollar deals, Frank explains why not every property on the same street is worth the same price, the importance of long-term planning and exit strategies, how to uncover overlooked value pockets across the east, and the common mistakes buyers make when emotion takes over.

Whether you’re a first-home buyer or an investor eyeing Sydney’s toughest markets, this conversation reveals how experience, relationships, and strategy separate good purchases from costly regrets.

00:00 — Introduction

01:10 – Meet Frank Russo: Sydney Buyer's Agent

01:39 – Frank's Journey to Becoming a Buyer's Agent

03:05 – The Skills and Challenges of a Buyer's Agent

06:17 – Navigating the Eastern Suburbs Real Estate Market

10:27 – Common Mistakes and Strategies in Property Buying

16:15 – Building Trust and Relationships with Agents

25:13 – The Importance of Property Location and Condition

32:13 – Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Frank Russo is the founder of Search Find Invest, a Sydney-based buyer’s agency he established over 12 years ago.

With a trade background as a carpenter and builder, Frank brings a unique perspective to property — blending building knowledge, investment strategy, and market expertise.

Specializing in Sydney’s eastern suburbs, he helps clients, from first-home buyers to seasoned investors, navigate one of Australia’s most competitive markets. Known for his honesty, strategic approach, and strong relationships with local agents, Frank has built a trusted reputation as a buyer’s advocate who delivers long-term value.

• Business webpage Link - https://www.searchfindinvest.com.au/
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/searchfindinvest/
• Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/frankrusso_buyersagent/
• Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/searchfindinvest.com.au
• YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFW25vEYAgCHjWwG2rnRkWQ
• X - https://x.com/searchfindinvst

• Business Webpage Link - https://www.alcove.com.au/
• Phone: 0489 913 227
• Email - [email protected]
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/alcovemb
• Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/alcove.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/@street-secrets
• Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/street-secrets/id1837331268
• Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7sBYmpcuxCYwceQiHdBnaq?si=2Gdl60HRRWCBoUlcBHB0nA

The information provided in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as financial, investment, or credit advice. It does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation, or needs. You should consider the appropriateness of the information to your circumstances and seek advice from a licensed financial adviser, mortgage broker, or other qualified professional before making any decision. Canopy Private Pty Ltd holds Australian Credit License 558709.

“You need to know what’s happening from zoning right through to flight paths if you want to buy well.” – Cate Bakos

In this first episode of Street Secrets, Melbourne-based buyer’s agent Cate Bakos explains the factors that separate a smart purchase from a costly mistake in the city’s inner north and west.

With a background in chemistry and mortgage broking, Cate approaches property with a sharp, analytical eye. She breaks down how zoning changes, flight paths, and heritage overlays can impact a home’s value and livability. She also highlights the traps that catch new buyers—like cheap-looking properties that banks won’t finance, or contracts hiding red flags.

Drawing on more than 2,000 property deals, Cate shares real-world examples of what to avoid and what to look for, from Yarraville’s gentrification story to why one side of a street can be worth far less than the other.

If you’re planning to buy in Melbourne, or want to avoid expensive mistakes anywhere, this episode gives you the insider knowledge. Tune in to learn the street-level secrets that could save you thousands.

00:00 — Introduction

01:52 — Cate  Bakos' Journey into Real Estate

03:20 — The Role of a Buyer's Agent

04:44 — Understanding Property Analysis

06:04 — Specializing in Melbourne's Inner West

09:00 — Navigating the Real Estate Market

10:37 — The Importance of Local Knowledge

23:25 — Building Relationships with Agents

28:44 — Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Cate Bakos is one of Melbourne’s most respected buyer’s agents, with more than 16 years of experience helping clients secure the right properties across the city’s Inner North and West. Starting her career in chemistry before moving into real estate sales and mortgage broking, Cate brings a unique mix of analytical skills and on-the-ground knowledge to every deal.

She has secured over 2,000 properties for clients and is known for her deep understanding of zoning laws, heritage overlays, and the local factors that make or break a property’s performance. Beyond transactions, Cate is a trusted advisor who guides buyers through the emotional and financial challenges of purchasing, always with honesty and a focus on long-term success.

• Business Webpage Link - https://www.catebakos.com.au/
• Phone - 03 7000 6026
• Mobile - 0422 638 362
• Email - [email protected]
• Socials:
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/catherinebakos/
• Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cate_bakos_property/
• Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/catebakosproperty/

• Business Webpage Link - https://www.alcove.com.au/
• Phone: 0489 913 227
• Email - [email protected]
• Socials: 
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/alcovemb
• Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/alcove.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/@street-secrets
• Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/street-secrets/id1837331268
• Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7sBYmpcuxCYwceQiHdBnaq?si=2Gdl60HRRWCBoUlcBHB0nA

The information provided in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as financial, investment, or credit advice. It does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation, or needs. You should consider the appropriateness of the information to your circumstances and seek advice from a licensed financial adviser, mortgage broker, or other qualified professional before making any decision. Canopy Private Pty Ltd holds Australian Credit License 558709.

Property decisions go beyond suburb names and floorplans, they hinge on the insights only locals and experts share.

Street Secrets introduces you to Australia’s most experienced buyer’s agents, uncovering the insights and strategies that help you buy smarter.

In this trailer, you’ll get a taste of what’s to come: short, sharp episodes released every Thursday, packed with real-world knowledge that turns confusion into clarity.

If you’re a first-home buyer, investor, or upgrader looking to make better property decisions, then this show is for you. 

👉 Hit follow now so you never miss an episode, and join us each week as we ask: what’s the word on the street?

The information provided in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as financial, investment, or credit advice. It does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation, or needs. You should consider the appropriateness of the information to your circumstances and seek advice from a licensed financial adviser, mortgage broker, or other qualified professional before making any decision. Canopy Private Pty Ltd holds Australian Credit License 558709.