039: Chris Curtis of Curtis Associates | Inner City - Sydney

“Scarcity drives value… and most people don’t understand what real scarcity looks like.” – Chris CurtisInner city Sydney is one of the most competitive and misunderstood property markets in Australia. In this episode, Chris Curtis breaks down what actually drives value—and where buyers get it wrong.With over 20 years as a buyer’s agent (and a background as a barrister and Macquarie Bank executive), Chris shares how trust, off-market access, and deep due diligence separate good deals from costly mistakes. From Potts Point to Surry Hills, he explains what buyers should be looking for—and what to avoid.We dive into downsizer demand, why many developments are missing the mark, the risks hiding in strata, and how planning changes like LMR and TOD are reshaping the market.If you’re buying or investing in Sydney’s inner city, this episode will sharpen how you assess value, risk, and long-term upside.Episode Highlights01:09 – From Barrister To Sydney Buyer’s Agent03:54 – Buyer’s Agent Regulation Crisis Explained05:14 – Why Trust Matters More Than Transactions07:00 – Off-Market Access Through Agent Relationships09:16 – What’s Driving Sydney’s Inner-City Demand?09:46 – Budget Changes, Tax Risks & Owner-Occupiers12:43 – Downsizers, Developers & Market Disconnects16:12 – Why Affordable Housing Isn’t Affordable19:30 – Rethinking Space: The Case For Vertical Living23:24 – Scarcity Drives Value: The Estate Trap25:01 – Finding Scarcity In Sydney Apartment Markets27:23 – Due Diligence Mistakes That Cost Millions29:31 – AI, Property Research & Off-Market Myths31:19 – LMR, TODs & The Planning Uncertainty AheadAbout the GuestChris Curtis is the founder of Curtis Associates and a highly experienced buyer’s agent specialising in Sydney’s inner city property market.Before becoming a buyer’s agent over 20 years ago, Chris spent 17 years as a barrister and later worked in property at Macquarie Bank. His career blends legal, financial, and property expertise, giving him a unique edge in high-stakes acquisitions.Chris has acted for a wide range of high-profile clients, including senior legal figures and executives, with over 85% of his business coming from repeat clients and referrals.He is known for his conflict-free approach, deep off-market access (often sourcing 90–95% of deals this way), and a strong focus on fiduciary duty—prioritising client outcomes over transactions.Connect with ChrisWebsite - Curtis AssociatesFacebook Page - Curtis AssociatesLinkedIn - Chirs CurtisLinkedIn - Curtis AssociatesWork with Chris (Alcove)Business Webpage Link - https://alcove.com.auEmail - [email protected] Alcove at: (1300 252683)Socials:LinkedIn (Alcove) - https://www.linkedin.com/company/alcovembLinkedIn (Chris) - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherbates/Instagram (Chris) - https://www.instagram.com/chrisbates_alcove/🗓️Book a chat with us!🗓️Follow us on our socials!YouTubeLinkedInInstagramTikTokEnjoyed 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-secretsSubscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/street-secrets/id1837331268Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7sBYmpcuxCYwceQiHdBnaq?si=2Gdl60HRRWCBoUlcBHB0nAThe 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 Licence 558709.