Current Market Insights

We react to the Federal Budget’s big property moves and explain why the headline promise of helping first home buyers may actually tighten rentals and lift prices in new stock. We break down how the negative gearing reset and capital gains tax changes could reshape investor behaviour, developer margins, and the next few years of the Sydney property market.• the budget framing on property policy and broken promises • negative gearing restricted to brand new dwellings and what that shifts in demand • why a premium can form in new builds and how off-the-plan buyers get caught • the longer-run path to higher rents as established-market investors exit • why price falls are unlikely to be fast or dramatic despite investor pullback • capital gains tax basics plus the move to inflation indexing and marginal rates • pre-1985 assets and the fairness argument around untaxed gains • winners and losers across big developers mid-sized developers flippers and rentvestors • the curveball view that New Zealand property may look more attractive for investors • practical caution on overseas buying and leasehold risksSend us Fan MailAs always if there is a specific topic you would like for us to cover, please reach out and let us know!    

On Across Australia, host Chris Smith is joined by Peter O’Malley to cut through the political noise surrounding negative gearing and capital gains tax reform. Rather than focusing on headlines, the discussion examines what’s actually unfolding on the ground across Sydney’s property market — from weakening auctions to rising rental pressure and shifting buyer behaviour.They also discuss: Why tax reform headlines don’t automatically trigger a housing crash  Interest rate rises as the true driver behind falling property prices  Immigration and population growth continuing to outpace housing supply  Tenants bearing the brunt of tightening rental conditions  How negative gearing changes could push rents even higher if investors exit  Sydney auction clearance rates falling below 40% and what that signals  Why buying before selling becomes especially risky in fragile markets  The mindset shift required to identify value during downturn conditionsSend us Fan MailAs always if there is a specific topic you would like for us to cover, please reach out and let us know!    

We unpack the RBA’s 0.25% rate rise to a 4.35% cash rate and read the statement for what it really says about inflation risk and what comes next. Then we shift to the on-the-ground property impacts, from Sydney’s tightening rental market to what falling clearance rates mean for buyers and sellers. • what the rate rise means for mortgage rates and household pressure • why we prefer reading the RBA statement ourselves • how global conflict and fuel prices feed inflation assumptions • whether politics shapes how the RBA frames blame • why Sydney rents keep climbing with vacancy near 1.1% • what “homelessness” looks like when people are priced out • why CGT tweaks do little if demand keeps rising • the case for slowing immigration or building far more homes • auction clearance rates below 40% and what that signals • practical tips like upgrading in a down market and avoiding buy-before-sell Well, I’ll make sure to link it in this episode for our listeners to have a listen Send us Fan MailAs always if there is a specific topic you would like for us to cover, please reach out and let us know!    

A ten-year ban doesn’t just end one agent’s career. It detonates a trust problem that’s been sitting in plain sight across Australian real estate for years. Ciaran O'Brien sits down with industry veteran Peter O'Malley to unpack why the Josh Tesolin case has triggered a genuine public brawl between high-profile agents, trainers, and business leaders, and why the loudest arguments aren’t really about personality, they’re about power, money, and credibility.We get specific on the mechanics that matter to consumers: how underquoting becomes normalised, why it can look “strategic” in a hot market, and why it turns ugly when incentive fees enter the picture. Peter explains the moment many people stop seeing it as sales theatre and start seeing it as misconduct: vendors being told there’s no buyer interest, then being pushed into paying a bigger commission, only to learn demand was strong all along.From there, we switch to practical guidance for anyone selling a home in NSW or anywhere watching these reforms closely. With auction clearance rates softening, the old tricks can backfire fast, and regulators like NSW Fair Trading are increasingly focused on price guides, compliance, and the digital footprint of campaigns. If you’re hiring an agent, we share the questions worth asking so you can protect your price, your timeline, and your peace of mind.If this helped, subscribe, share it with a friend who’s selling, and leave a review so more Australians can find straightforward property advice.Send us Fan MailAs always if there is a specific topic you would like for us to cover, please reach out and let us know!    

Sydney feels like it has hit a new gear, and not the fun kind. Buyer confidence has slipped hard, open home crowds have thinned out, and auction clearance rates are now printing numbers many people have not seen in years. We sit down and get specific about what that looks like on the ground, from the way buyers are negotiating to the brutal reality of properties that simply cannot find competition, even after price guides move.We also pull apart what’s driving the hesitation. Interest rate risk is back in focus, with the RBA and inflation sitting over every borrowing decision, while global shocks and supply chain fears add another layer of uncertainty. Then we zoom out and ask the bigger question: if this is a downturn, why hasn’t Sydney property collapsed? We cover the key supports still holding the market up, including high immigration, rapidly rising Sydney rents, the eye watering cost of renovations, and the fact that unemployment remains steady for now.Finally, we dig into the politics that could reshape the next phase, especially talk of capital gains tax changes aimed at property investors. If investors exit, does that free up homes for owner occupiers, or does it pour fuel on the rental crisis and make saving a deposit even harder? If you’re buying, selling, investing, or renting in Sydney, this conversation connects the dots across housing affordability, tax policy, and real world market behaviour. Subscribe, share this with someone arguing about house prices, and leave us a review with your own read on the Sydney market.Send us Fan MailAs always if there is a specific topic you would like for us to cover, please reach out and let us know!    

The New South Wales government just tabled legislation that could fundamentally change how real estate agents operate. Fines are tripling, agents will be forced to publish a price on every listing, and a new statement of information will create a paper trail that makes underquoting almost impossible to hide. In this episode Peter O'Malley breaks down what the proposed bill actually says, why the days of "price on application" are numbered, and how the government is quietly laying the tracks to prosecute agents who have been getting away with this for years.If you're buying, selling or even just watching the market, this is essential listening. You'll learn why agents underquote in the first place and why it works so well, how the new statement of information creates a trap for agents who advertise one price and expect another, and why properties passing in more than 10% above the guide will now trigger government scrutiny. Peter also shares a real example from this week of an agent quoting 2.6 million on a property where the seller wants 3.1 million and explains why that kind of behaviour is exactly what this bill is designed to catch. Whether you're about to list your home or you've ever felt misled at an auction, this episode shows you what's changing and what to watch for so you're not the one left exposed.Send us Fan MailAs always if there is a specific topic you would like for us to cover, please reach out and let us know!    

The RBA just hiked rates for the second time this year and the board was split 5-4, which is rare and significant. In this episode, Ciaran O'Brien and Peter O'Malley unpacks what that split really signals, why markets are already pricing in a third hike on May 5th, and how the combination of rising rates, a Middle East conflict and growing recession talk is reshaping the property market in real time.If you're a buyer, seller or investor trying to figure out your next move, this is the episode to listen to. You'll learn why auction clearance rates have dropped into the low 40s, what conversations agents are actually having with sellers right now, and why Peter believes buying before you sell in this market is one of the most dangerous moves you can make. You'll also hear how the rental crisis has quietly disappeared from headlines even though nothing has improved, and why the current environment ranks alongside the GFC and the pandemic in terms of market disruption. Whether you're actively in the market or watching from the sidelines, this episode gives you the real picture so you can make smarter decisions while everyone else is reacting to noise.Send us Fan MailAs always if there is a specific topic you would like for us to cover, please reach out and let us know!    

In Episode 111, Peter O’Malley and Ciaran O’Brien unpack one of the most important issues sellers face during a sales campaign: the difference between genuine buyer feedback and agent conditioning. They explore how some agents win listings with overblown price expectations, then try to walk vendors back through negative commentary, and how sellers can spot the difference. It is a practical conversation about pricing, trust, market shifts, and the questions every vendor should ask before signing with an agent.Send us Fan MailAs always if there is a specific topic you would like for us to cover, please reach out and let us know!    

In Episode 111, Ciaran O’Brien and Peter O’Malley sit down with special guest Mike Salvartsis, Owner Director of Real Property Buyers, for a sharp look at what is really happening across the Sydney property market. The conversation covers how global uncertainty and interest rate pressure are shaping buyer confidence, why investor activity is shifting, what is happening with first home buyers, and where the market may be heading as conditions keep changing. It is a practical, on the ground chat packed with buyer side insight, market nuance, and straight talk on where value and risk are showing up.Be sure to check out Mike Salvartsis from Real Property Buyers at realpropertybuyers.com.au, and connect with him on LinkedIn and Instagram for more property insights, market updates, and expert buying advice.Send us Fan MailAs always if there is a specific topic you would like for us to cover, please reach out and let us know!    

In this episode of Current Market Insights, Ciaran O’Brien and Peter O’Malley unpack the part of buying in NSW that most people think they understand, until it gets real. Offers are easy. Exchange is the moment it becomes binding. And the pathway you choose changes everything.  They break it into the non binding world of verbal, letter, text, and email offers, versus the binding options where a contract is actually signed. Cooling off gets explained in plain English, including why it is designed to balance risk and why pulling out costs you 0.25% of the purchase price. Then they get into 66W and what it really means to waive your right to cool off and go unconditional.From there, they talk about why agents push to move you from offer to contract, how gazumping happens right up until exchange, and why the modern, frictionless digital signing process can make people feel safe when they are anything but safe.To bring it to life, they walk through the Wallara case discussed in the media. A $10.6 million sale, a deposit that was not actually there, a bounced cheque, a $100,000 transfer, and a vendor who says she only found out the full story weeks later. They also cover what happens when a buyer fails to complete, including penalty interest, the 14 day notice to complete, and why people misunderstand open ended damages.Send us Fan MailAs always if there is a specific topic you would like for us to cover, please reach out and let us know!    

Ciaran O’Brien sits down with Peter O’Malley for a boots on the ground read of the Sydney property market as February 2026 wraps up. They unpack a softer feel behind the headlines, including Marrickville results that raised eyebrows and why comparing February to the same time last year matters more than week to week noise. Peter explains what he is seeing in buyer and seller behaviour right now, with vendors often taking early offers and buyers pushing back harder when expectations get ahead of reality.They also dig into the auction stats, including the big tilt toward sold prior results, and what that says about confidence and campaign strategy. From interest rate pressure and bidder numbers, to why premium family homes still attract attention across the city, the episode lands on a clear theme. The market is moving, but it is tighter, more measured, and less forgiving of overreach. They finish with a practical outlook through March, Easter, and Anzac Day, plus what could shift if another rate hike returns in May.Send us Fan MailAs always if there is a specific topic you would like for us to cover, please reach out and let us know!    

This week on Current Market Insights, Kieran O’Brien and Peter O’Malley unpack the key points from Peter’s latest monthly newsletter and what they mean on the ground in Sydney real estate.They cover why the market is likely to brush off the latest rate hike, and why the bigger story is what happens next if the RBA goes again.They also dig into the New South Wales Fair Trading name and shame register and what it is designed to do, especially around underquoting. Plus the rental market outlook, with Peter on the record saying Sydney rents could rise 10% in 2026, and why interest rates, land tax, supply, and demand are lining up for a tough year for renters.To finish, they look at stock levels early in the year, relistings colliding with new listings, and the shifting currency advantage for cashed up migrants and returning expats as the Australian dollar strengthens.Topics include:RBA rate hike and why it may be benignStagflation risk and jobs market contextNSW Fair Trading name and shame register and underquotingSydney rents forecast and landlord pressuresLand tax threshold freeze and more investors getting hit2026 stock levels, relistings, and buyer demandAUD strength and the fading currency bonanza for overseas buyersSend us Fan MailAs always if there is a specific topic you would like for us to cover, please reach out and let us know!    

Hosts Ciaran O’Brien and Peter O’Malley unpack the RBA’s latest rate hike and why inflation in Australia remains stubbornly above target. We explore how the next six weeks could reshape sentiment, borrowing capacity and price momentum, while comparing Sydney’s serviceability risks against other cities and assessing whether policy proposals around land supply can truly shift the housing balance.We also discuss:Cash rate rising to 3.85% with mortgage rates sitting in the high fives to low sixesRBA signalling inflation likely to remain above target for an extended periodWhy the board opted for a smaller, steady hike instead of a 0.5% moveGlobal market volatility versus Australia’s domestic inflation driversGovernment spending and wage policy contributing to persistent price pressuresBorrower resilience alongside growing serviceability risks in SydneyThe typical six-week lag before rate hikes fully impact the real economyRental market stabilising with modest increases and rising house-sharing trendsPolicy discussion around potential military land sell-offs and supply constraintsPractical guidance for sellers, buyers and investors navigating a shifting cycleSend us Fan MailAs always if there is a specific topic you would like for us to cover, please reach out and let us know!    

Hosts Ciaran O’Brien and Peter O’Malley break down the 3.8% CPI print and why housing costs—especially rents and electricity—are doing most of the damage. We explain what a likely 0.25% RBA hike means for prices, buyer sentiment, and negotiations, then turn to NSW’s new name-and-shame register for agents and whether tougher enforcement can rebuild trust in the industry.We also discuss:Headline inflation at 3.8% and the upward trendTrimmed mean inflation closer to target, but not enough to reassure the RBAHousing as the key CPI driver: rents and electricity in focusWhy a 0.25% rate hike is likely at the next RBA meetingJanuary listings lifting as vendors move earlier than usualBuyer sentiment dipping despite APRA buffers and approvals holdingStress risk concentrated in households with thin cash buffersUneven impacts of first-home buyer schemes across suburbsMigration continuing to support house-and-land demandNSW’s name-and-shame register: who it applies to and what offences qualifyUnderquoting incentives versus real consumer harmFee misuse, conflicts of interest, and stricter enforcement aheadPractical tactics for pricing, negotiating, and timing decisions in a tighter settingSend us Fan MailAs always if there is a specific topic you would like for us to cover, please reach out and let us know!    

Hosts Ciaran O’Brien and Peter O’Malley deliver a clear-eyed check on how Sydney’s property market opens in 2026—steady inspections, cautious buyers, and a noticeable shift where apartments begin edging ahead of houses as first home buyer activity concentrates at the affordable end. We map the three key signals to watch this year—immigration, the employment market, and interest rates—and explain how they flow through to rents, sentiment, and price direction.We also discuss:Buyer activity holding steady, but hesitation risingDecember exchanges pulling demand forward into early 2026A slight monthly fall for houses, while apartments liftFirst home buyer schemes pushing more demand into unitsWestern Sydney showing intense entry-level competitionEnergy costs squeezing household budgets and adding pressure to rentsThe “three signals” for 2026: immigration, employment quality, and interest ratesWhy the RBA may “jawbone” markets before making any moveCumulative immigration tightening rentals and feeding CPI pressureUnderemployment reducing borrowing capacity and shrinking buffersA practical read on where prices could bend next as conditions evolveSend us Fan MailAs always if there is a specific topic you would like for us to cover, please reach out and let us know!    

Peter O'Malley joins 2GB's John Stanley to give a clear read on Australia’s property market in 2026, weighing forecasts for modest growth against pressure from rising rates, strong migration, and a tight rental market. Peter looks at investor exits, tax changes, commercial risks, prestige momentum, and how jobs and AI could tip the balance.• four to eight percent growth forecasts versus likely rate hikes• late 2025 softness in Sydney and early January buyer intent• immigration-driven rental pressure and CPI flow-through• NSW land tax bite and investor retreat to Brisbane• commercial risks in retail, office, and tenant durability• RBA’s quarterly inflation focus and policy timing• prestige property decoupling and AML obligations• unemployment trend, AI job risk, and market resilienceSend us Fan MailAs always if there is a specific topic you would like for us to cover, please reach out and let us know!    

In this special Talking Property episode, Harris Partners’ Peter O’Malley is joined by SQM Research Director Louis Christopher, widely regarded as Australia’s leading property analyst, to preview what lies ahead for the housing market in 2026. With Sydney tipped for a strong year, Louis unpacks the key forces that will shape prices, rentals, and market stability.We also discuss:The RBA’s interest rate dilemma and what it means for housingWhy 2026 is shaping up as a strong year for property marketsKey risks that could threaten market stabilityThe slow rebalancing between dwelling supply and demandRental market forecasts and ongoing pressure pointsThe impact of AI on employment and flow-on effects for housingWhat buyers, sellers, landlords, and tenants should be watching closelySend us Fan MailAs always if there is a specific topic you would like for us to cover, please reach out and let us know!    

SQM Research's Louis Christopher offers an insightful breakdown on the State of the Market in Sydney for 2025. We unpack why Sydney’s 2025 property market rose overall yet lost steam late in the year. • three rate cuts then a CPI shock reframing expectations• supply targets missing by a wide margin• electricity prices driving inflation and sentiment• APRA’s soft investor caps in hotter non‑Sydney markets• migration outpacing new dwellings and lifting rents• vacancies near 1% and rental affordability strain• data integrity issues with auction benchmarks• underquoting eroding trust and fair competition• first‑home buyer schemes and high‑LVR risk• late‑year weakness in mid and top‑end Sydney• unemployment risk and the spectre of stagflationSend us Fan MailAs always if there is a specific topic you would like for us to cover, please reach out and let us know!    

Hosts Ciaran O’Brien and Peter O’Malley wrap up a year where rate cuts calmed mortgage distress, yet inflation quietly returned through energy, services, and daily essentials. As AI reshapes jobs, rental markets hold steady, and policy reforms tighten compliance, we reflect on what defined 2025 — and what’s next for Sydney’s property landscape.We also discuss:How rate cuts removed forced selling and lifted sentimentInflation’s reacceleration through energy and service sectorsUnemployment edging up as AI drives underemploymentThe tension between return-to-office mandates and automation riskPublic sector hiring cushioning private sector softnessFirst-home buyer incentives pulling forward demandMigration maintaining pressure on housing and rentalsRental conditions steady but poised for another upswingInvestors chasing yield outside inner Sydney marketsTougher penalties and audits reshaping underquoting practicesReserve-price disclosure proposals threatening the auction modelVendor liability flagged as the missing accountability linkFrom all of us at Current Market Insights — Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. We’ll see you in 2026.Send us Fan MailAs always if there is a specific topic you would like for us to cover, please reach out and let us know!    

Hosts Ciaran O’Brien and Peter O’Malley break down Sydney’s late-year property trends — where prices keep climbing even as auction heat fades. With migration pressure, infrastructure investment, and rate movements all pulling the market in different directions, we map what’s driving demand and how to plan your next move.We also discuss:Why December 2025 is shaping stronger than last year’s marketHow three rate cuts have lifted confidence — but not single-handedlyWestern Sydney’s buyer surge driven by major infrastructure rolloutsMigration pressure continuing to outpace housing supplyInflation risks and the RBA’s warnings on potential rate reversalsInner-city apartments emerging as contrarian value playsAuction clearance rates dipping as volumes reach seasonal highsStock levels tightening into late December and JanuaryVendor strategy: list when others pause to capture buyer attentionInvestor takeaway: follow infrastructure and scarcity for long-term gainsSend us Fan MailAs always if there is a specific topic you would like for us to cover, please reach out and let us know!    

Hosts Ciaran O'Brien and Peter O'Malley unpack how to choose a property manager who genuinely protects your asset — not one who disappears after signing the agreement. From understanding the difference between a BDM and a true property manager to spotting red flags and compliance traps, this episode lays out clear, practical steps for landlords.We also discuss:Why you should always meet the person who will actually manage your propertyThe difference between sales-oriented BDMs and day-to-day property managersWarning signs of a “tenant’s champion” mindset that undermines ownersHow to assess arrears processes, performance metrics, and communication standardsWhat to ask when checking references from current landlordsProtecting your own home when leasing it out for the first timeUnderstanding fair wear and tear versus property damageCommon compliance pitfalls and the impact of new legislationHow AI-driven enforcement is changing property managementWhy service fees should go toward management quality, not cold lead generationSend us Fan MailAs always if there is a specific topic you would like for us to cover, please reach out and let us know!    

Hosts Ciaran O'Brien and Peter O'Malley unpack why buying before selling snares one in ten property owners — and how to avoid panic discounts, bridging finance blowouts, and stressful settlement timelines. With real examples and proven strategies, they show how to trade uncertainty for control when making your next move.We also discuss:Why appraisals often overpromise and mislead sellersHow seasonal stock surges shift buyer power and market dynamicsThe dangers of vendor overconfidence and “social proof” pricing trapsHidden title, access, and compliance issues that derail salesBuying under pressure versus selling under pressure — and which is riskierUsing long settlements to create time and certaintyAligning settlement dates to reduce financial and emotional stressThe true cost and complexity of bridging financeRent-backs and other set plays that give sellers flexibilitySend us Fan MailAs always if there is a specific topic you would like for us to cover, please reach out and let us know!    

Hosts Ciaran O'Brien and Peter O'Malley explore why Sydney’s property market continues to defy broader economic headwinds. As unemployment rises and central banks face pressure to balance inflation with growth, we examine how policy shifts, migration, and housing supply gaps are shaping today’s price dynamics.We also discuss:Sydney’s housing resilience despite a softening national economyCentral banks weighing inflation control against unemployment risksImported inflation and the political pressures shaping RBA decisionsImmigration settings fuelling demand without addressing skills shortagesConstruction sector strain from labour shortages and accreditation hurdlesVendor expectations outpacing genuine buyer depthFirst-home buyer incentives boosting activity at the lower end of the marketOlder walk-up apartments outperforming high-rise developmentsThe ripple effect moving buyers across adjacent suburbsInvestor yield realities and data distortions shaping perception vs. truthSend us Fan MailAs always if there is a specific topic you would like for us to cover, please reach out and let us know!    

Hosts Ciaran O'Brien and Peter O'Malley unpack why a seemingly “small” price change can translate into a substantial real-world loss once you factor in stamp duty, agent fees, legal costs, and market timing. Using real examples, they illustrate how the 10% break-even rule plays out and why meaningful tax reform could help unlock better housing mobility.We also discuss:The 10% break-even reality across different market segmentsHow stamp duty brackets and bracket creep erode gainsReal examples of sellers taking losses despite higher sale pricesWhat transaction costs you can and can’t controlHow capital gains tax (CGT) discounts and losses actually workThe difference between tax-free gains on a primary residence vs. investor treatmentCommon media myths vs. the true net financial outcomesWho to consult for expert financial and property adviceHow strong agency work behind the scenes adds measurable value to a saleSend us Fan MailAs always if there is a specific topic you would like for us to cover, please reach out and let us know!    

Hosts Ciaran O'Brien and Peter O'Malley unpack why a rate hold can still feel like a squeeze for households, even as Sydney’s property market shows firmer prices, mixed clearance rates, and ultra-tight rental conditions. With rezoning plans, first home buyer support, and global risks shaping the outlook, this episode explores the forces driving today’s market.We also discuss:RBA holds rates as the board signals caution on future cutsGold surge and US tariffs raising the risk of imported inflationHousing strength playing a central role in monetary policy decisionsSydney prices edging up as stale stock starts to moveAuction volumes rising, with clearance rates holding in the low 50sRental conditions tightening further as arrivals lift and tenants negotiate earlyInvestors staying cautious amid soft yields and tax settingsFirst home buyer support helping at the entry-level but not B-grade unitsLending limits on sub-40sqm apartments creating barriers for buyersInner West rezoning approval for 30,000+ dwellings over 15 yearsDelivery risks around construction quality, schools, and infrastructurePractical plays for buyers, sellers, tenants, and investors in today’s marketSend us Fan MailAs always if there is a specific topic you would like for us to cover, please reach out and let us know!    

Hosts Ciaran O'Brien and Peter O'Malley expose the hidden risk of insider threats in the real estate industry, where organised crime syndicates are placing moles inside agencies to access sensitive personal information. With data breaches costing consumers and businesses dearly, this episode highlights why protecting client data is now a frontline issue.We also discuss:Criminals purchasing personal data through insiders for as little as $250Why real estate agencies are prime targets due to the volume of sensitive information they holdUnderworld figures using clean associates to infiltrate legitimate businessesThe need for both tech solutions and human vigilance in safeguarding dataHarris Partners’ own security measures, including regular system checks and document shreddingA real-world case of a departing agent downloading 6,000 client contacts, resulting in Supreme Court actionThe role of digital fingerprints in tracing potential breachesEthical responsibility and self-interest driving better business protectionsWhy consumers must be selective about the information they provide and regularly review what’s held about themSend us Fan MailAs always if there is a specific topic you would like for us to cover, please reach out and let us know!    

Hosts Ciaran O'Brien and Peter O'Malley break down Sydney’s spring property market as a surge of new listings puts pressure on clearance rates. With 1,115 auctions scheduled in a single week and clearance rates slipping to 51%, many vendors are choosing to sell prior rather than risk auction day.We also discuss:Growing employment concerns with job losses in banking and the rise of AI/offshore outsourcingThe looming stagflation threat as unemployment and inflation risk moving in opposite directionsSydney rental vacancy rates tightening to 1.4% (down from 1.6% last year) despite earlier “crisis” warningsAnnual Sydney rental price growth at 4.2%, double the 2.1% inflation rateEven stronger rental growth in other cities: Hobart (10.6%), Darwin (8.9%), Brisbane (7.3%)NSW government’s Parramatta Road redevelopment plans — 3,000 new homes from Camperdown to LeichhardtInfrastructure bottlenecks raising doubts about realistic housing supply increasesFirst home buyer incentives (commencing October 1st) influencing some buyers to delay purchasesSend us Fan MailAs always if there is a specific topic you would like for us to cover, please reach out and let us know!    

Hosts Ciaran O'Brien and Peter O'Malley analyse the opening weeks of Sydney’s spring property season. Relentless rain has delayed listings, while three recent rate cuts have eased mortgage stress and reduced urgency for some sellers. Despite fewer properties on the market, conditions are strengthening with clearance rates notably higher than last year.We also discuss:The three distinct phases of Sydney’s spring market: • Mid-August to end of September • October long weekend to early November • Melbourne Cup Day to mid-DecemberTradespeople in high demand, many booked until 2025, slowing property preparationsCurrent market indicators showing rising prices, stronger buyer inquiries, and shorter days on marketFirst home buyer incentives beginning October 1st — yet to significantly affect buyer behaviourGlobal inflationary pressures limiting likelihood of further RBA cuts this yearSigns of buyer regret as some realise they missed the bottom of the property cycleSend us Fan MailAs always if there is a specific topic you would like for us to cover, please reach out and let us know!    

Hosts Ciaran O'Brien and Peter O'Malley unpack major government announcements set to reshape Sydney’s property market. From new first home buyer incentives to large-scale rezoning plans, these policy shifts aim to boost affordability and supply — but will they actually deliver, or simply push prices higher?We also discuss:Federal first home buyer guarantee allowing purchases with 5% deposit and no LMITreasury’s claim of only 0.5% price impact vs. historical evidence of price inflation from incentivesRemoval of income limits potentially opening benefits to higher earnersChris Minns’ announcement of Willara station completion and rezoning for 10,000 homesHigh-density strategy around transport hubs to reduce car dependencyInflation figures at 2.8% reducing chances of a September rate cutElectricity costs emerging as a key inflation driverAuction clearance rates improving to 56.5%, with equal split between sold prior and under the hammerStale listings moving as signs of a heating market emerge ahead of springSend us Fan MailAs always if there is a specific topic you would like for us to cover, please reach out and let us know!    

Hosts Ciaran O'Brien and Peter O'Malley break down the Reserve Bank’s 0.25% interest rate cut — the third in 2025 — and what it means for property buyers and sellers. At the same time, Sydney’s real estate sector is reeling from a major underquoting investigation, with high-profile agents and systemic practices under the microscope.We also discuss:Sydney Morning Herald exposé on widespread underquoting practicesFour-month suspension for top agent Josh TesolinRBA decision to lower the cash rate to stimulate a slowing economyImpact of three consecutive cuts on borrowing capacity and buyer sentimentNSW Fair Trading’s crackdown on misleading price guides“Auction bunnies” and the psychological toll of repeated buyer disappointmentAuction clearance rates holding steady at 52.6% amid rising spring listingsSend us Fan MailAs always if there is a specific topic you would like for us to cover, please reach out and let us know!    

Hosts Ciaran O'Brien and Peter O'Malley uncover the deceptive use of “fictitious buyers” by agents—an unethical tactic designed to pressure genuine buyers into overpaying. Peter explains how this differs from the previously discussed “phantom buyer” strategy, and outlines how buyers can protect themselves from falling victim to false competition.We also cover:Why written confirmation from agents is crucialThe legal implications under consumer lawThe importance of understanding where an agent’s duty of care liesOngoing vendor hesitation ahead of expected August rate cutLow stock levels contributing to increased auction competitionClearance rates rising to 55.4% as market momentum buildsSend us Fan MailAs always if there is a specific topic you would like for us to cover, please reach out and let us know!    

Sydney’s property market remains stable as inflation data supports a likely August interest rate cut. With vendors and buyers anticipating a spring shift, hosts Ciaran O’Brien and Peter O’Malley break down how CPI figures, policy changes, and affordability pressures are shaping the current landscape.In this episode:CPI hits 2.1%, with core inflation at 2.7%—both within the RBA’s targetWhy August 12 could bring the long-awaited rate cutNew AML laws set to reshape real estate from July 2026Auction clearance rates at 53.5% with 800+ properties going under the hammerDomain data puts Sydney’s median house price at $1.7 millionAre spring vendors heading into a crowded market?The renovation boom’s surprising impact on property valuesSend us Fan MailAs always if there is a specific topic you would like for us to cover, please reach out and let us know!    

Hosts Ciaran O'Brien and Peter O'Malley delve into serious allegations against one of Australia’s top agents, accused of misleading vendors and manipulating commission structures for personal gain. Sparked by a series of Sydney Morning Herald exposés, we examine the broader implications for consumer protection, transparency, and regulatory oversight in real estate.We also discuss:Commission incentives and alleged buyer deceptionFamily-linked property deals raising ethical red flagsFair Trading’s response and the role of public accountabilityAuction clearance rates breaking above 50%The RBA holding rates amid economic stagnationWhat lies ahead for vendors as the market edges toward springSend us Fan MailAs always if there is a specific topic you would like for us to cover, please reach out and let us know!    

Sydney's property market shows resilience with auction clearance rates of 76% despite winter conditions and the Reserve Bank holding interest rates. The market is experiencing "artificial strength" due to extremely low housing stock levels while buyer numbers remain consistent.• Domain reports Sydney auction clearance rate at 76%, up from 62% during the same weekend last year• Unit market continues to underperform houses due to ongoing concerns about building defects• Rental crisis shows no signs of improving with queues at winter inspections, which is highly unusual• Basic granny flat in Avalon commanding $690 per week• Immigration policy contributing significantly to rental pressure• Building industry hampered by high costs, labor shortages, and competition from government infrastructure projects• Developers struggling to make projects financially viable due to increased material and labor costs• Market expected to remain strong with little downside risk due to continued low supply and expected future interest rate cutsSend us Fan MailAs always if there is a specific topic you would like for us to cover, please reach out and let us know!    

SQM Research’s Managing Director Louis Christopher recently joined us to outline provide his view on how the Sydney Property Market will perform heading toward Christmas. Louis discusses:Why both the Sydney and National property market are likely to rise in the next 12 monthsThe impact of falling interest rates and rising immigration numbersBenefits infrastructure brings to the suburbs and locations close to the new roads, Metro Stations and AirportsFirst home buyers entering the market and fuelling the bottom end of the marketThe best performing segments of the marketWhy home sellers and buyers should care about the ACCC’s investigation into REA Group andMuch more… This is a deep dive on the factors that will determine the market’s direction in the near term.Send us Fan MailAs always if there is a specific topic you would like for us to cover, please reach out and let us know!    

Australia's best property analyst, SQM Research's Louis Christopher joined us to discuss the Sydney property market. In this chat, we discuss the the market response to the two interest rate cuts, what the RBA are likely to do in July and the rise of the rental market when compared with wage growth. All of this is covered in Louis' market breakdown and much more...Send us Fan MailAs always if there is a specific topic you would like for us to cover, please reach out and let us know!    

Host Chris Smith (2SM’s Across Australia) is joined by real estate expert Peter O'Malley to unpack the ACCC’s investigation into REA Group and the growing backlash against skyrocketing advertising fees. With Australian property sellers now footing the world’s highest real estate ad costs, the discussion exposes how the “Vendor Paid Advertising” model evolved, who really benefits, and whether true competition in the portal space is even possible. Send us Fan MailAs always if there is a specific topic you would like for us to cover, please reach out and let us know!    

Hosts Ciaran O'Brien and Peter O'Malley unpack Premier Chris Minns’ potential pivot to Glebe Island for housing development, after the collapse of the Rose Hill Racecourse plan. With Sydney’s median house price pushing $1.486 million and economic growth flatlining, we examine the state’s struggle to address a worsening housing shortage. From strata issues to land tax pressures and investor flight, this episode highlights the complex dynamics facing buyers, landlords, and policymakers alike. As mentioned in this episode, find the latest Harris Partners Real Estate Report here.Send us Fan MailAs always if there is a specific topic you would like for us to cover, please reach out and let us know!    

In this episode, we examine the ACCC’s investigation into REA Group and whether Australia’s leading real estate portal is misusing its market dominance. With vendors and agents under pressure from rising listing costs, we unpack the economics behind online advertising, growing use of off-market listings, and how competition (or lack of it) is shaping vendor behaviour.We also touch on:The price disparity between Balmain and Mount Druitt listingsDomain’s recent $3 billion acquisition by CoStarThe May rate cut’s effect on auction clearances, now just above 50%Rising inflation figures and how they might influence the RBA’s next moveAs mentioned in this episode, listen to our previous discussion around REA market dominance here.Send us Fan MailAs always if there is a specific topic you would like for us to cover, please reach out and let us know!    

The RBA has delivered a 0.25% interest rate cut, opting for a cautious step down while acknowledging growing international risks. In this episode, Ciaran O'Brien and Peter O'Malley break down what this move signals for property buyers, investors, and the broader economy.We examine the deteriorating labour market, wage growth dynamics, and why a global economic downturn could reshape the Australian property landscape. From Scott Pape’s warning to Westpac’s workforce cuts, we connect the dots on how this cycle might play out.Sydney’s auction clearance rates remain stuck below 50%, the housing shortage worsens, and winter conditions start to chill market activity.Send us Fan MailAs always if there is a specific topic you would like for us to cover, please reach out and let us know!    

Hosts Ciaran O'Brien and Peter O'Malley unpack renewed activity in Sydney's property market as the first "clean weekend" since mid-April brings more buyers through open homes—yet clearance rates linger at just 46%.We look ahead to the anticipated 0.25% RBA rate cut on May 20 and explore ongoing rental market strength, signs of stagflation, and political pressures influencing housing policy. Plus, we discuss growing concerns around personal banking privacy after a controversial move by the Commonwealth Bank.Send us Fan MailAs always if there is a specific topic you would like for us to cover, please reach out and let us know!    

Hosts Ciaran O'Brien and Peter O'Malley dissect the RBA’s controversial decision to hold rates during the federal election—despite inflation now sitting comfortably within target bands and business conditions described as “putrid” across multiple sectors.With Sydney auction clearance rates collapsing to 44%, high vendor withdrawals, and predictions of a 0.5% cut in May, we explore whether the RBA’s delay will cost households and the broader property market. We also analyse how the Labor government’s decisive win and immigration policy will affect housing supply and rental pressure moving forward.Send us Fan MailAs always if there is a specific topic you would like for us to cover, please reach out and let us know!    

On this week's Current Market Insights - Harris Partners' Peter O'Malley joined 'Ugly Phil' O'Neil on 2GB Nights to discuss all things property. In this insightful chat, they discuss market trends over this Easter/ANZAC Day holiday period, the role of the Bank of Mum & Dad in the housing market and the risks in friends pooling together to purchase a property. You can listen to the full chat hereSend us Fan MailAs always if there is a specific topic you would like for us to cover, please reach out and let us know!    

Hosts Ciaran O'Brien and Peter O'Malley take a hard look at the NSW Government’s underquoting reforms, which have resulted in just 95 fines—each a mere $2,200—doing little to curb misleading price guides in Sydney’s high-stakes market. With buyers now instinctively adding 10–25% to quoted prices, transparency is collapsing, and trust is eroding.We break down why the current system enables compliant underquoting, how buyers and vendors are responding, and what lies ahead as the market enters a typically slower stretch around Easter, Anzac Day, and the looming federal election.Send us Fan MailAs always if there is a specific topic you would like for us to cover, please reach out and let us know!    

Hosts Ciaran O'Brien and Peter O'Malley unpack the global trade tensions rattling the Australian economy as Trump-era tariffs hit allies like Australia with a 10% sting—and China even harder. We explore how this “generational reset” in trade is stirring uncertainty across the property market and why the RBA may be forced into multiple emergency rate cuts.From volatility in the prestige sector to weak auction results and market patchiness, we assess the current landscape and the smarter strategies agents and vendors should consider as economic pressures mount.Send us Fan MailAs always if there is a specific topic you would like for us to cover, please reach out and let us know!    

Hosts Ciaran O'Brien and Peter O'Malley break down the Federal Government’s Budget and its ambitious housing plan, which aims to address Australia’s housing crisis by increasing supply beyond what the private sector can deliver alone. With targets for 1.2 million new homes, increased social housing investment, and changes to planning and infrastructure, we explore what this means for buyers, renters, and investors.We also discuss the latest market trends, including declining auction clearance rates, tightening rental supply, and the impact of upcoming NSW tenancy law reforms. With inflation easing, will we see further rate cuts to support the market?As mentioned on the show, listen to our previous podcast on No Grounds Evictions in NSW.Send us Fan MailAs always if there is a specific topic you would like for us to cover, please reach out and let us know!    

Hosts Ciaran O'Brien and Peter O'Malley reveal how every listing, price change, and failed auction creates a permanent digital record that can impact your property's value. With property data companies storing this information indefinitely, sellers must be strategic about pricing, timing, and online exposure.We discuss how failed auctions, underquoting risks, and even unrelated online content can affect buyer perceptions. Understanding your property’s digital footprint is key to protecting its value in an era where every detail is just a search away.Send us Fan MailAs always if there is a specific topic you would like for us to cover, please reach out and let us know!    

Hosts Ciaran O'Brien and Peter O'Malley analyse the impact of the recent RBA interest rate cut on Sydney’s property market, where premium properties are attracting intense buyer interest while generic listings struggle.We break down shifting stock levels, auction clearance rates, and the rental market’s renewed tightening. With investment properties moving to owner-occupiers and immigration consuming housing supply, we examine whether another rate cut in April or May will be enough to stimulate demand. Tune in for insights on how market conditions are evolving and what it means for buyers and sellers alike.Send us Fan MailAs always if there is a specific topic you would like for us to cover, please reach out and let us know!    

Hosts Ciaran O'Brien and Peter O'Malley dive into the impact of strata levies on property purchases, sharing personal experiences and industry insights on managing these shared costs wisely.We explore the rising costs of strata fees—particularly due to insurance—why reviewing strata reports is essential for buyers, and the importance of trusted advisors in the purchasing process. From inspecting amenities firsthand to understanding strata dynamics, this episode equips buyers with the tools to make informed decisions in the apartment market.Send us Fan MailAs always if there is a specific topic you would like for us to cover, please reach out and let us know!    

Peter O'Malley recently joined John Stanley on 2GB to examine the latest auction clearance rates and how buyer confidence is affected by recent interest rate changes. He guides you through the implications of rising land values amidst economic fluctuations.• Review of recent auction results with a 71% clearance rate • Discussion on how interest rate cuts impact buyer behaviour • Examination of land value increases and their implications for investors Thank you for tuning in! Be sure to leave us a review and subscribe for more insights. Send us Fan MailAs always if there is a specific topic you would like for us to cover, please reach out and let us know!