Behind The Numbers: Property Wrap

When someone loses motivation, leaders often respond with more targets, more accountability and another burst of “rah-rah” energy. But what if the real issue sits beneath the behaviour we can see? In this episode of Behind the Numbers: The Leadership Series, Sadhana Smiles speaks with executive coach and leadership consultant Holly Cole-Havens about what really shapes motivation and performance. They explore the role leaders play in influencing their team’s energy, why motivation often follows action, and how pressure, personal habits and workplace culture affect our capacity to perform. Holly also explains why leaders need white space in their calendars to manage people well, how to respond when a high performer damages the team, and why the emotional highs and lows of success can make sustained performance harder. Holly will continue this conversation in her session, Understanding Motivation Through Neuroscience, at The Business of Real Estate Conference on the Gold Coast.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What does it really take to build a team that performs under pressure without burning people out? In this episode of Behind the Numbers: The Leadership Series, Sadhana Smiles is joined by Drew Ginn OAM, four-time Olympian, triple Olympic gold medallist, member of Australia’s legendary Oarsome Foursome and General Manager of Marshall White Bayside. Drew shares what he learned when, at just 21, he joined an established championship crew and had to earn trust, find his place and learn how four ambitious individuals could move as one. The conversation explores the less visible side of elite performance: honest feedback, shared accountability, recovery, injury and the personal cost of constantly striving to be the best. Drew also challenges the belief that high performance means operating at 100 per cent every day. People are not machines, and sustainable success requires leaders to understand when to push, when to reset and what each person needs to perform. Today, Drew applies those lessons inside real estate. He discusses how he builds team culture at Marshall White Bayside, develops people across every role and creates an environment where performance and wellbeing strengthen one another. Behind the Numbers: The Leadership Series is presented in partnership with the RISE Initiative, working to improve mental health and wellbeing across the real estate industry.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Financial uncertainty is part of life. But when it comes to super, waiting for the perfect time to act can carry a lasting cost. In the final episode of Future-Proof, our special series with REI Super on women’s financial wellbeing in real estate, Sadhana Smiles is joined by Vanessa Rader, Head of Research at Ray White, and Chris D'Astoli from REI Super. Together, they explore how global events, inflation, interest rates, unemployment and market volatility can affect our investments and super balances, and why reacting emotionally to every headline may do more harm than good. The conversation also examines the financial gaps that can quietly grow across a woman’s working life, particularly through career breaks, changing family circumstances, multiple super accounts, outdated insurance and delayed planning. Vanessa and Chris share practical guidance on staying informed, understanding your risk profile, reviewing your super, considering additional contributions and deciding whether a self-managed super fund is right for you. Most importantly, they challenge the belief that financial confidence depends on having a particular amount of money. It begins with knowing where you stand, understanding your options and having a plan, even a simple one. You do not need to have everything figured out. But the perfect moment to begin does not exist. Start where you are, take one practical step and give that decision time to compound.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For many Australians, superannuation will become one of the largest assets they'll ever own. Yet it's often one of the least understood. In Episode 2 of Future-Proof, I am joined by Khyati Halani from REI Super to explore the practical steps every real estate professional can take to build greater financial security. From the introduction of Payday Super and understanding investment options, to insurance, salary sacrifice and navigating commission-based income, this episode cuts through the jargon to focus on the decisions that can make the biggest difference over time. Khyati also explains why women continue to retire with significantly less super than men, how career breaks contribute to that gap, and why staying engaged with your super throughout every stage of your career is one of the most important financial habits you can build. Whether you're an employee, business owner or working on commission, this episode is packed with practical insights to help you better understand your super and take greater control of your financial future. Because building wealth through super isn't about making one big decision. It's about making better decisions consistently.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Financial wellbeing isn't built in a single moment. It's shaped by the decisions we make throughout our lives. In the first episode of our special three-part Future-Proof series, proudly presented by REI Super and Real Estate Industry Partners, Sadhana Smiles is joined by Jacqui Barnes from LSRE and Khyati Halani from REI Super for an honest conversation about the financial realities many women experience throughout their careers. From parental leave and career breaks to business ownership, separation and rebuilding, they explore how life's milestones can quietly shape our long-term financial future, and why so many women find themselves playing catch-up with their superannuation. Drawing on their own personal experiences, the conversation explores the financial lessons they wish they'd learnt earlier, the barriers that stop women engaging with their super, and why confidence, education and open conversations matter just as much as dollars and cents. Whether you're just starting your career, returning to work, running your own business or beginning to think more seriously about retirement, this episode is a reminder that it's never too early, or too late, to take control of your financial future. Because the best time to start thinking about your super was years ago. The second-best time is today.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Behind the Numbers, we unpack the 2026 Federal Budget and what it could mean for housing, renters, investors, inflation, and the broader Australian economy. The government says the proposed changes to negative gearing and capital gains tax are designed to improve affordability and create more opportunity for first home buyers. But with Australia already facing critically low rental vacancy rates, rising construction costs, and not enough housing supply, we ask whether these reforms risk placing even more pressure on renters. We discuss: why the Budget may have created two property classes in Australia what happens if investors leave the market faster than new housing is built how rising rents could become an unintended consequence of the reforms why regional Australia could feel the pressure hardest and whether younger Australians are facing a very different pathway to wealth creation than previous generations We also explore the broader economic contradiction sitting underneath the Budget, with inflation still being driven by global instability and energy costs while the Reserve Bank continues using higher interest rates to slow the economy down. It is a direct and practical conversation about what these changes could actually mean for everyday Australians over the next few years.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The RBA’s latest rate decision was anything but straightforward. A 5–4 split has pushed the cash rate higher, at a time when households are already facing rising fuel costs and ongoing pressure on affordability. So what problem is this rate rise actually trying to solve? In this episode, we unpack the growing divide in economic thinking. Is inflation being driven by demand, or by global forces beyond our control? Are we moving too early, or doing what’s necessary to stay ahead? We also explore what this means on the ground. Consumer confidence, spending behaviour, borrowing capacity, and the early signals in the labour market. And with the RBA acknowledging that a recession is a risk, we ask the question many are starting to consider. How far does this tightening cycle go, and what does the economy look like on the other side?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Behind The Numbers, we unpack exclusive REIP behavioural data revealing how the market is really moving beneath the headlines. Seller appraisals strengthened early in the year, signalling renewed intent. Buyer inspections have been active but sensitive to interest rate shifts. And in the rental market, actual lease outcomes are showing tighter conditions than advertised rents suggest. We also examine the growing conversation around potential changes to the Capital Gains Tax discount. What could this mean for investor confidence, rental supply and long-term market stability? Joining us are Cate Bakos and Cameron Kusher as we explore how policy signals, investor sentiment and real-time activity are shaping the next phase of the property cycle. This is not speculation. It’s behaviour. And the signals matter.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

January has confirmed what many already felt – Australia’s property market is moving, but not in one direction. In this January Behind the Numbers wrap, we unpack a highly diverse market. National home values lifted modestly, but growth varied sharply by location. Sydney, Melbourne, Hobart and Canberra recorded slower conditions, while Perth, Brisbane, Adelaide and Darwin continued to outperform. Several regional markets also posted stronger growth than their capital city counterparts. We explore why Melbourne unit prices are now rising faster than houses, driven largely by first home buyers seeking affordability and proximity. We also discuss investor behaviour, rental yields, and why Melbourne is increasingly viewed as a value market. On lending, higher prices are translating into larger loan sizes, with average settled loans up around 11 per cent year on year. With inflation back in focus and interest rate expectations shifting, we look at how borrowers are responding, particularly around serviceability, pre-approvals and timing. Migration, supply constraints and tight rental conditions continue to shape outcomes across the country, keeping vacancy rates low and rents under pressure. As always, this episode focuses on what the data is really telling us – and how Australians are navigating the market right now.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As 2025 draws to a close, Australia’s property market is sending some new and important signals. In this episode of Behind the Numbers, we unpack the December data and the early trends shaping 2026, with a sharp focus on one of the biggest forces in the market right now: listings. National stock levels remain well below long-term averages, and where listings are tight, prices have continued to hold up. At the same time, we saw the first pockets of negative monthly price movement in key markets, raising questions about whether the market is cooling, pausing, or simply resetting. Our panel breaks down what the data is telling us about listing volumes, price momentum, metro versus regional performance, auction conditions, and rental trends, and what it all means for buyers, sellers, investors and renters heading into the year ahead. Clear numbers, practical insights, and a calm look at what to watch next.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

November delivered one of the clearest market signals of the year, and in this episode we break it all down with three experts who see the market from every angle. National home values continued to rise, but the pace has started to shift. Affordability is now at record levels. Auction volumes surged then fell away. Lending remains tight. And buyer behaviour is changing as conditions become more complex. I’m joined by economist Cameron Kusher, lending specialist Alya Manji, and buyer’s advocate Cate Bakos to unpack what the November numbers really mean for buyers, sellers, investors and agents heading into 2026. We cover the markets that are still running hot, where the slowdowns are emerging, how credit tightening will shape the year ahead, why first home buyers are feeling the squeeze, and what to make of the Victorian Government’s proposal for sellers to disclose their auction reserve a week out. If you want a clear, grounded view of the property market as we close out the year, this episode takes you inside the data and the decisions shaping the road ahead.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australia’s housing market just won’t sit still. Prices are climbing, listings are thin, and the race to buy is getting fierce. In this episode, we unpack the real story behind October’s numbers on why low supply is keeping pressure on prices, why we’re not building the homes we actually need, and what it means as we head into the final stretch of the year. Economist Cameron Kusher, buyer’s advocate Cate Bakos, and mortgage expert Alya Manji join Sadhana Smiles to explore the national picture from the rise of lone households to shifting investor activity, the growing demand for smaller homes, and the changing balance of power between buyers and sellers. It’s a candid, grounded look at what’s driving Australia’s “housing paradox” and what to expect as the market charges toward 2026.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Spring is here, and so is the heat in Australia’s property market. In this month’s episode, we are joined by Cate Bakos and Cameron Kusher to unpack the impact of the new First Home Buyer Scheme, the surge in investor activity, and the market movements across every capital city — from Darwin’s double-digit growth to Melbourne’s quiet comeback. Plus, Aussie Home Loans joins the conversation for the first time, with mortgage broker Anya sharing what’s really happening with borrower behaviour, refinancing, and lending policies on the ground. Will the mix of incentives, sentiment, and stability push prices higher as we head into summer? Tune in for the data, the debate, and the insights you need to stay ahead of the market. 🎧 Presented by REIP and Aussie Home Loans.   PIPA 2025 Report See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

August felt like someone flicked the market’s light switch. A fresh RBA cut lit the fuse, values nudged higher across almost every city, and Melbourne strapped on a jet pack as tight listings stirred real FOMO. We unpack where prices rose, why interstate investors are eyeing Victoria, and why units under 950k are suddenly the hottest ticket. We also look at rents creeping up while vacancies hover near 1 per cent, plus the First Home Buyer Guarantee expanding on 1 October and what that could do to entry-level stock. Cameron Kusher and Cate Bakos join Sadhana Smiles to map the next moves, including whether there may be only one more cut in the tank, and how to buy or sell smart as spring gathers pace.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this month’s episode, I’m joined by economist Cameron Kusher and buyer’s advocate Cate Bakos for a conversation that goes far beyond prices and predictions. Yes, we talk market movements — but we also tackle the hard truths behind Australia’s housing shortfall, why the building pipeline isn’t keeping up, and how investor sentiment is shifting under the weight of tax reform, policy uncertainty, and supply pressure. From stubborn listings to the social housing gap, Cate and Cameron bring sharp insights and bold truths that every property watcher needs to hear. 🎧 Listen now for a timely pulse-check on what’s really shaping the market — and what lies ahead.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Behind the Numbers, we explore the latest shifts in the Australian property landscape with two industry experts: economist Cameron Kusher, now part of the REIP Commentary Team, and award-winning buyer’s agent Cate Bakos. Cameron shares a national overview of market movements — from tightening listing volumes and interest rate impacts to rising investor activity, rental pressures, and growth on the city fringes. Cate brings sharp, real-world insights into buyer behaviour, the return of investor confidence, and her advice for first home buyers and auction-goers navigating today’s competitive environment. A timely, practical conversation grounded in data and experience.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Election outcomes, policy shifts, and price surges—April delivered it all.In this episode of Behind the Numbers – Property Wrap, I am joined by Cate Bakos and Atom Go Tian to unpack the key market movements: rising stock levels, affordability reforms, and Southeast Queensland’s rise as a property powerhouse. From Sydney’s luxury resilience to Darwin’s investor spike, we explore what’s driving price gaps, regional booms, and where buyers are heading next.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Behind the Numbers – Property Wrap, I’m joined by Buyers Advocate Cate Bakos and Commercial Property expert Vanessa Rader for a deep dive into what’s shaping the Australian property market right now. We explore: The ripple effects of the recent RBA rate cutHow sentiment is driving buyer and investor activity across the countryWhy cities like Melbourne, Darwin, and Adelaide are showing strong momentumAnd in a special segment, Vanessa Rader breaks down the commercial property market—what’s hot, what’s holding, and where new investors are jumping in From regional booms to rental stabilisation, and the growing interest in converting underused office space, this episode covers both the numbers and the stories behind them.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

 In this episode of Behind the Numbers, we’re joined by Cate Bakos and Jordan Tormey, two of the sharpest minds in property analysis. Cate dives into the impact of recent rate cuts, exploring whether buyer urgency is being driven by opportunity—or just fear of missing out. She breaks down the markets within markets, looking at where things are heating up, where they’re cooling, and what investors are paying attention to right now. Jordan takes us behind the data, revealing the trends that are shaping the Australian real estate landscape. From auction timing and competition shifts to how local brands are competing against international players, his insights challenge traditional thinking and offer a fresh perspective on where the market is heading.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to our first episode of Behind the Numbers Property Wrap with Nerida Conisbee.  Australia’s property market is constantly shifting—house prices, interest rates, global trends, and government policies all play a role. But what does it mean for you? Each month, we break down the latest data, analyse key market trends across every state, and discuss the impact of economic forces—(both local and global)—on property prices, affordability, and investment opportunities. Join us as we cut through the noise with expert insights and real talk about what’s driving Australian real estate. Let’s dive into the numbers that matter.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to Behind the Numbers, the podcast that helps you make sense of the Australian real estate market. Whether you’re buying, selling, investing, or working as an agent, we break down the latest trends and insights to help you navigate the property landscape with confidence. I’m your host, Sadhana Smiles, and with over 30 years in real estate, I’ve seen how tricky it can be to keep up with fluctuating prices, clearance rates, and market shifts. That’s why we’re here—to cut through the noise and give you clear, actionable insights. So, whether you’re planning your next move or just curious about what’s driving the market - let’s dive into the numbers shaping Australian property with a team of experts in the know. Reach out at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sasmiles/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.