Your First Home Buyer Guide Podcast

Are you sure those common property beliefs you've heard are actually sound advice? In this episode, we dig into some widely accepted opinions about property that simply don’t hold up when you look at them more closely. From the idea that "you should buy as soon as you can afford anything" to "buying under market value" or "starting with an investment property," we discuss why these might not be as foolproof as they seem.

We explore how rushing to get on the property ladder by purchasing any available property can backfire. It’s not just about getting your foot in the door—what you buy can have long-term implications on your finances and future choices. We also dive into the real costs associated with choosing the wrong property or falling into the trap of thinking a "bargain" always means value.

Beyond the initial myths, we challenge the belief that buying an investment property before your first home guarantees success. While this may work for some, it’s not the blanket solution that many claim it to be. We also touch on the misleading allure of buying "under market value" and why properties without competition could be signaling red flags you need to watch out for.

If you’ve ever been tempted by quick-fix solutions like “instant equity uplift” or the idea that the only way to make money is through renovation, this episode offers the insights you need to avoid costly mistakes. We wrap it up with tips on how to apply critical thinking to common property advice, ensuring you're making informed decisions that suit your unique circumstances.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 - Introduction

02:04 - Meighan’s special house of the week

04:42 - Buy as soon as you can afford anything just to get on the property ladder

07:34 - Buy an investment property before buying a home to live in

10:59 - Buy under market value

14:25 - Instant equity uplift

24:01 - Buy the worst house on the best street

26:12 - Grab all the government grants you can

29:00 - Never buy strata title

32:43 - Avoid lender’s mortgage insurance at all costs

35:51 - The only way to make money in property is to renovate

39:22 - You can time the market

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Lender’s Mortgage Insurance Calculator https://helia.com.au/the-hub/calculators-estimators/lmi-fee-estimator

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/

If you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey!

• Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@YourFirstHomeBuyerGuidePodcast

• Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/your-first-home-buyer-guide-podcast/id1544701825

• Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7GyrfXoqvDxjqNRv40NVQs?si=7c8bc4362fab421f

 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When you buy a property, no amount of online research replaces actually getting out there and inspecting it in person. In this episode, we share our top five property inspection tips, including one powerful insight that could transform your home-buying journey.

We start with time management—because when you’re rushing between multiple open houses on a Saturday, it’s easy to miss important details. We show you how to stay organised with checklists, so you get the most out of each visit.

Next, we dive into the importance of exploring the neighbourhood. From checking out local shops and parks to observing the playground atmosphere, understanding the area’s vibe is key. And of course, we cover what to look for in the property’s structure, helping you spot potential red flags early and save yourself from unnecessary costs.

Finally, we leave you with a crucial tip that could make or break your chances of closing the deal so don’t miss out on this game-changing advice!

Episode Highlights:

00:00 - Introduction

02:07 - Meighan’s special house of the week

07:23 - Tip #1: Plan your time carefully

09:53 - Tip #2: Do an area recce

13:06 - Tip #3: Be systematic

19:50 - Tip #4: Watch for common faults

25:47 - Top Tip # 5

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/

If you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey!

• Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@YourFirstHomeBuyerGuidePodcast

• Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/your-first-home-buyer-guide-podcast/id1544701825

• Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7GyrfXoqvDxjqNRv40NVQs?si=7c8bc4362fab421f

 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wondering if you can buy a home without a full 20% deposit? You’re not alone. As property prices climb, saving that much can feel impossible, but there are other ways to get your foot in the door sooner. In this episode, we explore the range of options available to first-home buyers who are looking for alternatives to the traditional deposit size.

Cara Haynes, a seasoned mortgage broker, joins us to shed light on strategies that could work for different situations. From family guarantees to lenders mortgage insurance (LMI), and even some government schemes—there’s more out there than you might think. These aren’t one-size-fits-all solutions, but they might be worth considering depending on your circumstances.

We break down the potential benefits and trade-offs of these paths without making it complicated. Cara shares real-world examples and tips, giving you insights that could help you make sense of your options with more confidence. You’ll also hear about some banks offering perks like waived LMI for certain professions—a game changer for those eligible.

This episode is packed with eye-opening details, designed to help you explore what could work for you. It’s not about quick fixes, but about understanding the landscape and weighing up what’s right for your home-buying journey.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 - Introduction

02:33 - Who is Cara Haynes?

05:56 - Why banks typically require a 20% deposit from home buyers

10:32 - Key factors financiers consider when assessing a client's borrowing potential

12:42 - How can high earners prove their loan eligibility without sufficient savings?

13:48 - What alternatives exist for high-income buyers with insufficient savings?

17:37 - Bank of mum and dad

20:37 - Shared equity schemes

29:51 - Lender’s mortgage insurance

35:45 - Is pre-approval necessary?

37:31 - What do first home buyers need to know about pre-approval when buying at auction?

42:17 - Key takeaways from the conversation

44:45 - What Cara wishes she knew as a first home buyer

About Our Guest:

Cara Haynes is a seasoned mortgage broker at Loan Market, based in Northgate, Queensland. With over a decade of experience, Cara transitioned into mortgage broking from a background in legal administration and marketing, bringing a unique perspective to her role. Known for her clear communication and dedication to helping clients navigate the property market, she frequently receives high praise from clients for her professionalism and attentiveness. Her approach focuses on offering customized support, making her a popular choice for first-time home buyers and investors alike.

Connect with Cara Haynes:

• Facebook https://www.facebook.com/CaraHaynesAtLoanMarket/

• LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/cara-haynes-b59b1737/

• Instagram https://www.instagram.com/carahaynes_loanmarket/

• Website https://www.loanmarket.com.au/

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/

If you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey!

• Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@YourFirstHomeBuyerGuidePodcast

• Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/your-first-home-buyer-guide-podcast/id1544701825

• Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7GyrfXoqvDxjqNRv40NVQs?si=7c8bc4362fab421f

 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Over the years, we’ve helped tons of first home buyers get on the property ladder, avoid costly mistakes, and become proud homeowners. And we can hardly believe we’ve already hit 200 episodes! 

Today, we’re pulling together the very best tips, lessons, and advice from our most popular episodes—all in one place. If you’ve just joined us or have been with us for a while, this is a fantastic shortcut to the most important things you need to know.

This episode is packed with practical advice, real stories, and those “aha” moments that can really make a difference. So, grab a cup, sit back, and let’s celebrate 200 episodes together — because there’s no better time to learn how to get it right when buying your first home.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 - Introduction

03:21 - Meighan’s special house of the week

06:29 - A short breakdown of the last 200 episodes

16:36 - Episode 1: What is Your First Home Buyer Guide?

17:06 - Our annual how to prepare to buy each year

18:18 - Episode 9: What is the Importance of a Borrowing Strategy?

19:26 - Episode 41: 6 Things We Wish We Knew Before Buying Our First Property

21:18 - Episode 59: A Quick Step-by-Step Guide to Purchasing Property

22:51 - Episode 40: How Can You Identify A, B, and C Grade Properties?

25:14 - Episode 105: Your First Home Buyer Quick Start Guide

26:01 - Episode 121: Top 5 Tips for Dealing with Real Estate Agents

28:49 - Episode 27: How to Work Out the Right Price to Pay

Resources mentioned in this episode

• Your First Home Buyer Guide Podcast Episode 1: What is Your First Home Buyer Guide? https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/podcasts/001
• Your First Home Buyer Guide Podcast Episode 9: What is the Importance of a Borrowing Strategy? https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/podcasts/009
• Your First Home Buyer Guide Podcast Episode 41: 6 Things We Wish We Knew Before Buying Our First Property https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/podcasts/041
• Your First Home Buyer Guide Podcast Episode 59: A Quick Step-by-Step Guide to Purchasing Property https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/podcasts/059
• Your First Home Buyer Guide Podcast Episode 40: How Can You Identify A, B, and C Grade Properties? https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/podcasts/040
• Your First Home Buyer Guide Podcast Episode 105: Your First Home Buyer Quick Start Guide https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/podcasts/105
• Your First Home Buyer Guide Podcast Episode 121: Top 5 Tips for Dealing with Real Estate Agents https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/podcasts/121
• Your First Home Buyer Guide Podcast Episode 27: How to Work Out the Right Price to Pay https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/podcasts/027

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/

If you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey!

• Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@YourFirstHomeBuyerGuidePodcast
• Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/your-first-home-buyer-guide-podcast/id1544701825
• Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7GyrfXoqvDxjqNRv40NVQs?si=7c8bc4362fab421f

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever wondered how you can get your hands on those hidden property listings? Today, we're diving into some of the juiciest property questions from our Facebook group, and we’re starting with a big one—how to access those off-market properties that everyone’s talking about.

We’ll also cover how to know when you’re really ready to buy your first home. It’s a huge decision, but there are signs to look out for that can help you feel more confident.

Then there’s the debate: houses versus townhouses—what should you be buying? And what about if you’ve bought a house with a sibling and things aren’t quite working out? We’ll walk you through how to handle that split without too much drama.

These are the kinds of questions we get all the time, so if you’ve been asking yourself the same thing, stick around! We’ve got some practical answers that might just help you out.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 - Introduction

02:20 - Factors to help you decide when you’re ready to buy your first home

07:05 - In terms of future capital growth, which would perform better — house or townhouse?

15:35 - Are there any advantages in buying marketed vs. off-market properties?

23:08 - How to remove your name from a mortgage with a sibling and get into your own property

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Home Buyer Academy's Kick Start Package: https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/tutorial
• Your First Home Buyer Guide Podcast Episode #68: 10 Signs You're Ready to Buy Your First Home https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/podcasts/068
• Your First Home Buyer Guide Podcast Episode #84: Units vs Townhouses: What's Best for First Home Buyers? https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/podcasts/084

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/

If you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey!

• Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@YourFirstHomeBuyerGuidePodcast
• Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/your-first-home-buyer-guide-podcast/id1544701825
• Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7GyrfXoqvDxjqNRv40NVQs?si=7c8bc4362fab421f

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever feel like you’re stuck in no man’s land after making an offer? That weird silence from the agent that probably leaves you wondering—what’s next?

In this episode, we tackle exactly what happens between submitting your offer and hearing back. It’s one of the most frustrating parts of the home-buying process, and if you’ve ever found yourself asking, “Do we counter again or is this a one-and-done situation?”—you’re not alone.

We break down how skipping key steps—like reviewing the contract or researching pricing—can throw you off track and leave you scrambling while also talking about the emotional rollercoaster of negotiations and why it’s critical to know if you’re bidding against others or in a straight negotiation because believe us, knowing the difference can save you a lot of stress (and money). And then, we share the go-to magic question that every buyer needs to ask an agent to avoid misunderstandings.

So, if you want to avoid rookie mistakes, keep your cool during negotiations, and handle the offer process like a seasoned pro, this episode’s got you covered. (Stay with us till the end to hear the most important question you should ask that could make or break your deal.)

Episode Highlights:

00:00 - Introduction

02:27 - “We’ve offered and are waiting to hear back…what do we do?”

03:28 - The football analogy

05:46 - A quick run through of the 10 steps in the first home buyer guide

07:00 - What are the key steps in the offer process?

13:49 - How to handle multiple offers and negotiations

15:16 - How the process of making offers on property can vary widely between agents

20:00 - Effective negotiation strategies

23:09 - Emphasis on emotional control and why it’s so important in the offer process

27:45 - A good question to ask when you find out there are other offers on the property

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• FREE MINI COURSE: How to price property like a professional https://www.homebuyeracademy.com.au/freecourse
• Your First Home Buyer Guide Episode 197: How Do You Handle the Stress When Buying a Home on Your Own? https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/podcasts/197

Resources:

• 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/

If you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey!

• Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@YourFirstHomeBuyerGuidePodcast
• Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/your-first-home-buyer-guide-podcast/id1544701825
• Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7GyrfXoqvDxjqNRv40NVQs?si=7c8bc4362fab421f

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Buying a home is easily one of the most stressful things you’ll ever do, especially when you’re flying solo. Today, we’re tackling this question from one of our Facebook group members: how do you get past the terror of making a massive financial mistake as a single person? We totally get it—between skyrocketing property prices and the thought of no safety net, it’s enough to make anyone feel nervous.

So today's episode is all about helping you go through the rollercoaster of buying on your own. We share some personal stories about what it’s like to buy without a fallback and the kind of pressure that comes with knowing it’s all on you. We dig into some surprising stats—did you know nearly a quarter of buyers are doing it alone? Yep, that’s right. And what’s interesting is more women are stepping up, even as the number of single male buyers has dipped. The question, however, remains: Is it doable at all?

Join us as we walk you through the process. This episode is full of advice to help you make the best decisions and come out the other side feeling good about your purchase. So let's get started!

Episode Highlights:

00:00 - Introduction

02:09 - Meighan’s special house of the week

04:36 - Moving past the terror of making a huge financial mistake when buying your first home

05:24 - Statistics and emotional aspects of buying alone

08:30 - Emotional vs logical decision-making

12:04 - The importance of logical decision-making

13:40 - Planning and preparation for buying a property

19:20 - Understanding your own unique set of compromises

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Where to buy tutorial https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/workshop
• Check out all of our courses here: https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/all-courses
• Emotions and property investment – do they mix? https://channels.realty.com.au/realtytalk/emotions-and-property-investment-do-they-mix-veronica-morgan/
• The Art and Science of Removing Emotions when Buying a Property https://propertyplanning.com.au/the-art-and-science-of-removing-emotions-when-buying-property/
• The Elephant in the Room Property Podcast https://www.theelephantintheroom.com.au/podcasts

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/

If you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey!

• Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@YourFirstHomeBuyerGuidePodcast
• Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/your-first-home-buyer-guide-podcast/id1544701825
• Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7GyrfXoqvDxjqNRv40NVQs?si=7c8bc4362fab421f

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, we continue with part two of our East Coast property market update, once again joined by Cate Bakos. In this episode, we delve into the nitty-gritty of what your budget can buy in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, as the market shifts through 2024. From first home buyers eyeing properties in the $600k-$700k range to those with budgets up to $1.5 million, we break down the opportunities and challenges each city presents.

We start with Melbourne, where Cate shares insights on how infrastructure projects are shaping affordable areas, particularly in the outer suburbs. Then, we head to Brisbane, where increasing competition and unique risks—such as black soil issues—require careful consideration for buyers, especially in the $700k-$800k bracket. Finally, we turn to Sydney, where the market remains highly competitive, and buyers with budgets below $1 million will face difficult choices between apartments and older homes in outlying suburbs.

Tune in to find out how these three markets compare, what to watch out for, and where the best value for money can still be found.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 - Introduction

02:19 - Buying a property in Melbourne, Brisbane and Sydney for $600k - $700k

09:08 - Buying a property in Melbourne, Brisbane and Sydney for $700k-$800k

13:41 - Buying a property in Melbourne, Brisbane and Sydney for $800k - $1 million

21:57 - Buying a property in Melbourne, Brisbane and Sydney for $1.1 million - $2 million

25:15 - Investment strategies and property selection in Sydney, Melbourne & Brisbane

32:00 - Rental market & legislative shifts in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane

44:42 - The challenges of increased land tax and rental reforms

51:29 - Property risks, key drivers, and opportunities — Melbourne

54:10 - Property risks, key drivers, and opportunities — Brisbane

56:57 -  Property risks, key drivers, and opportunities — Sydney

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Buying Property in Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane? Here’s What You Need to Know (Part 1) https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/podcasts/195

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/

If you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey!

• Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@YourFirstHomeBuyerGuidePodcast
• Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/your-first-home-buyer-guide-podcast/id1544701825
• Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7GyrfXoqvDxjqNRv40NVQs?si=7c8bc4362fab421f

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you’re thinking about buying property in Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane, you’re in the right place. In this episode, we talk about the key differences between these three major Australian cities—because let’s be honest, what works in one city might be a complete disaster in another. We’re here to help you figure out where your money goes further, what’s happening in 2024, and how to avoid some of the biggest traps buyers fall into.

We have Cate Bakos joining us from Melbourne who shares what’s really happening in the Victorian market—especially after those long lockdowns and the media hype. Next up, we bring you all the latest on Brisbane’s booming market, which is moving faster than it has in years. And of course, we also cover Sydney, where even in a so-called “normal” market, there are still plenty of surprises to handle.

We know there’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to the best buying strategy, so we’re giving you real, on-the-ground insights to help you make the best decision for your situation.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 - Introduction

02:54 - Who is Meighan Wells?

03:26 - Who is Cate Bakos?

04:05 - Who is Veronica Morgan?

05:41 - General Market Conditions in Melbourne

07:59 - General Market Conditions in Brisbane

18:23 - General Market Conditions in Sydney

22:21 - Is there a sweet spot for investors at the moment in Melbourne?

33:08 - Is the property market competitive in Brisbane at the moment?

39:35 - What are the most competitive price ranges and property types in Sydney

About Our Guest:

Cate Bakos, with a Chemistry degree from Monash University, transitioned from a successful career in sales and marketing with Orica to becoming an award-winning real estate professional. After purchasing her first property at 21, she moved into Melbourne’s Bayside property market, later founding Cate Bakos Property in 2014. Cate has guided over 2,000 clients through property purchases and strategies, leveraging her expertise in lending policy and cash flow analysis. A regular media commentator, Cate co-hosts “The Property Trio” podcast and authored “Successful Property Investment.” She served as REBAA President from 2019 to 2023 and continues to mentor young industry professionals.

Connect with Cate Bakos:

• Website https://www.catebakos.com.au/
• LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/catherinebakos/
• Instagram https://www.instagram.com/cate_bakos_property/

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/

If you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey!

• Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@YourFirstHomeBuyerGuidePodcast
• Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/your-first-home-buyer-guide-podcast/id1544701825
• Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7GyrfXoqvDxjqNRv40NVQs?si=7c8bc4362fab421f

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When you’re looking to buy a property, how can you truly tell if it has renovation potential? That’s the question we dive into in this episode. With a focus on the top six things to look for, we cover what adds value and what doesn’t, how to spot hidden costs, and which projects are best left untouched.

We start with why location is key, and why it’s something you must get right before you even think about renovations. We also break down the difference between a cosmetic facelift and a full-on renovation project, so you can figure out if you’re better off avoiding that fixer-upper. You’ll hear about the importance of good bones, solid maintenance, and why not all renovations will actually increase your property’s value.

We also deep dive into how the layout and orientation of a property can impact both livability and resale value. Plus, we touch on the importance of flow—because no one wants a home that doesn’t make sense, no matter how nice it looks. And let’s not forget those big expenses like rewiring or re-stumping. They’re essential, but we explain why they don’t always add the kind of value you might expect.

By the end of this episode, you’ll have a much clearer idea of what to look for when assessing a property’s renovation potential. So if you’re ready to dive into the nitty-gritty and avoid making costly mistakes, we’ve got you covered! Tune in for all the details.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 - Introduction

02:16 - Example of a home that you wouldn’t want to bother renovating

03:41 - The importance of location when choosing a property

08:14 - Top 6 things to look for when assessing the renovation potential of a property

08:36 - Number 1: Bones of the property/Structural soundness

11:42 - Number 2: Is it well-maintained or neglected?

17:27 - Number 3: Orientation

20:22 - Number 4: Layout

24:48 - Number 5: Ensure appropriate room proportions for the upgraded layout

28:33 - Number 6: Feasibility

30:54 - Non-value adding renovations — necessary but don’t necessarily add value

37:43 - Danger zones — things you can’t fix

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/

If you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey!

• Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@YourFirstHomeBuyerGuidePodcast
• Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/your-first-home-buyer-guide-podcast/id1544701825
• Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7GyrfXoqvDxjqNRv40NVQs?si=7c8bc4362fab421f

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.