041: Michael Ramsay of The Advocates | Geelong - Bellerine Peninsula

“People say buyers' advocates help you buy the right house. They help you not buy the wrong house.” – Michael RamsayGeelong and the Bellarine Peninsula have transformed from lifestyle destinations into some of Australia's most talked-about property markets. But beneath the headlines, local knowledge still matters more than ever.Chris Bates is joined by Michael Ramsay, one of Australia's longest-serving buyer's advocates, who has spent nearly 30 years helping buyers secure property across Melbourne, Geelong, the Bellarine Peninsula and the Surf Coast.They discuss the migration of Melbourne buyers to coastal Victoria, the lifestyle differences between the Bellarine and Surf Coast, Geelong's long-term growth prospects, school zones, prestige pockets, and why local relationships remain critical when buying property.Whether you're an investor, upgrader, sea-changer or first-home buyer, this episode offers an insider's perspective on one of Victoria's most dynamic regions.Episode Highlights01:12 – Meet Michael Ramsay: 28 Years in Property04:32 – Lessons from Melbourne’s Inner-City Market06:39 – Spotting Opportunity on the Bellarine13:09 – Surf Coast or Bellarine: Where Buyers Choose14:35 – Land Tax: Real Impact or Overblown Concern?17:16 – The Mistakes Coastal Buyers Keep Making20:28 – Acreage Living: Lifestyle vs Investment23:20 – How Schools Shape Local Property Demand25:10 – Geelong vs Coastal Living: What Buyers Prefer31:10 – Why Geelong Still Has Strong Fundamentals35:52 – How Agent Relationships Unlock Better Deals38:02 – The Trust Factor in Property Negotiations41:08 – Michael’s Final Advice for BuyersAbout the GuestMichael Ramsay is one of Australia's longest-serving buyer's advocates, having started his buyer's advocacy business in 1998 after a decade in residential real estate sales. He began his career selling real estate in Melbourne before becoming a partner at RT Edgar, eventually leaving sales to represent buyers exclusively.Michael spent approximately 14 years operating in Melbourne before relocating to the Bellarine Peninsula, where he now specialises in Geelong, the Bellarine Peninsula and the Surf Coast markets.He was also a founding figure behind REBAA (Real Estate Buyers Agents Association of Australia), helping establish professional standards within the buyer's advocacy industry. Throughout his career, Michael has built a reputation for deep local knowledge, strong agent relationships, and helping buyers avoid costly property mistakes.Connect with MichaelLinkedIn | Michael RamsayLinkedIn | The Advocates Property AdvisoryWork 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.