The Elephant In The Room Property Podcast | Inside Australian Real Estate

The buyer’s agent industry has exploded in popularity, attracting new clients and new operators alike. But rapid growth has exposed a deeper problem: experience takes years to build, while a buyer’s agent business can be launched much faster.
In this episode, Bryce Holdaway joins Veronica and Chris to unpack the growing standards problem facing buyer’s agents. They explore the experience gap among new entrants, the risks of borderless investing without genuine local expertise, and what happens when marketing skills outpace due diligence and property-buying skills.
They also challenge the industry’s obsession with “off-market” opportunities and silver-bullet strategies. Bryce argues that parts of the buyer’s agent industry may have contributed to recent government intervention, while Veronica reflects on how poor practices have damaged the trust the profession once enjoyed.
So what actually makes a good buyer’s agent, and how does the industry rebuild consumer trust?
This conversation is a candid look at where buyer’s agency is heading, what needs to change, and why the next generation of professionals needs to get serious about the craft—not just the marketing.
Episode Highlights
02:04 — Why Did Bryce and Veronica Join Forces Again?
06:43 — Can Regulation Really Fix Buyer’s Agency?
09:14 — Is Marketing Getting Ahead of the Craft?
11:22 — Why You Can’t Fake Local Market Expertise
16:09 — Who Pays When Buyer’s Agents Lack Experience?
19:12 — Could the Budget Be Good for Buyer’s Agency?
24:15 — Stop Copying Others: Find Your Own Differentiation
27:41 — Why More Information Isn’t the Answer
30:19 — Why Good Buyer’s Agents Need to Say No
33:42 — Why Community and Accountability Matter
35:14 — Where Are You: Start, Grow or Scale?
38:12 — The Skills Buyer’s Agents Will Need Next
43:30 — Is “Snake Oil” Damaging Buyer’s Agency?
47:42 — Rebuilding Trust in the Buyer’s Agent Industry
51:36 — What Needs to Change From Here?
About the Guest
Bryce Holdaway is a buyer’s agent, property expert, author, speaker, television presenter and business executive with decades of experience in Australia’s property industry. Originally trained as an accountant in Perth, Bryce discovered an interest in property while working with investment property clients before making the move into buyer’s advocacy and building a career focused on helping Australians make better property decisions.
Over his career, Bryce has built significant experience across property investment, buyer’s advocacy and business growth, including building a business with more than 130 staff and over $25 million in revenue. His experience spans investor-focused and owner-occupier property buying, interstate markets, team development and the systems required to build a sustainable property business.
Bryce has now reunited professionally with Veronica through Buyer’s Agent Mastery, an initiative focused on helping buyer’s agents strengthen their skills, businesses and client outcomes. Their aim is to bring greater leadership and professional standards to a rapidly growing industry while helping the next generation of buyer’s agents learn from the experience of those who have already built long-term careers in the field.
Connect with Bryce
LinkedIn
Facebook
Instagram
Website

Resources
Visit our website: https://www.theelephantintheroom.com.au
If you have any questions or would like to be featured on our show, contact us at:
The Elephant in the Room Property Podcast - questions@theelephantintheroom.com.au
Looking for a Sydney Buyers Agent? https://www.gooddeeds.com.au
Work with Veronica: https://www.veronicamorgan.com.au
Looking for a Mortgage Broker? alcove.com.au
Work with Chris: chrisbates@alcove.com.au

Enjoyed 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/@theelephantintheroom-podcast
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-elephant-in-the-room-property-podcast/id1384822719
Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3r0nnJrLUu3t1GpO7X3j6E

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!
See you on the inside,
Veronica & Chris

Selling a property in a slower market is less about timing the market and more about understanding where your property truly sits within it.
In this episode, Veronica and Chris unpack why so many sellers fall short of their expectations, from unrealistic price hopes to choosing the wrong approach when it comes time to sell. They explore how quickly conditions can shift, and why clarity around your property’s position is one of the most important steps in achieving a strong result.
The conversation dives into what separates A-grade properties from those that struggle when buyer demand softens, and why emotional decision-making can quietly cost vendors thousands. Veronica and Chris also discuss the importance of independent advice, and how it can help homeowners avoid common traps that show up during the selling process. From there, they look at the realities of upgrading in today’s market—whether it’s better to buy first or sell first, and how to manage the risks when you’re trying to do both.
They also break down practical considerations like pricing strategy, owner-occupier demand, renovation potential, and why some properties consistently hold their appeal across different market cycles. A key theme throughout is the importance of thinking ahead—understanding resale value and buyer perception long before a property ever hits the market.
Whether you're preparing to sell, planning your next move, or reviewing your long-term property strategy, this episode is packed with grounded, real-world insights to help you make more confident decisions. Hit play to learn why smart planning—not market timing—is what really drives better property outcomes.
Episode Highlights
03:45 – The Sale That Cost More Than Expected
08:29 – Why Property Flaws Matter More in a Slow Market
14:20 – The Buyer–Seller Standoff Slowing the Market
24:50 – Should You Sell First or Buy First?
29:07 – How to Reduce Lending Risk When Upgrading
32:04 – Why Pressure Leads to Expensive Property Mistakes
38:31 – The 'Frog in the Pot' Trap for Property Sellers
43:28 – When Bad Auction Advice Costs You Thousands
53:45 – Knowing When to Walk Away From a Sale
56:35 – Why More Investors Are Selling Interstate Properties
About the Host
Veronica Morgan is one of Australia’s most respected property experts, with decades of experience spanning property investment, buyer advocacy, market analysis, and consumer education. As the co-host of The Elephant in the Room and co-founder of Homebuyer Academy, Veronica is known for her evidence-based approach to property investing and her ability to cut through industry hype with clear, strategic insights. Having worked through multiple property cycles, she specialises in helping buyers understand the long-term drivers of capital growth, asset selection, and risk management in an increasingly complex housing market.
Chris Bates is the founder and CEO of Alcove, an award-winning mortgage broking and property advisory firm that helps Australians make smarter financial and property decisions. With deep expertise in lending strategy, borrowing capacity, debt structuring, and cash flow management, Chris works closely with first-home buyers, owner-occupiers, and investors navigating changing market conditions. He is widely recognised for his analytical approach to property and finance, as well as his willingness to challenge conventional wisdom and hype-driven investment narratives.
Together, Veronica and Chris bring a rare combination of on-the-ground property expertise and real-world lending insight. Their conversations blend macroeconomic analysis with practical strategy, helping listeners better understand not just what is happening in the Australian property market—but why it matters and how to respond intelligently.
Resources
Visit our website: https://www.theelephantintheroom.com.au
If you have any questions or would like to be featured on our show, contact us at:
The Elephant in the Room Property Podcast - questions@theelephantintheroom.com.au
Looking for a Sydney Buyers Agent? https://www.gooddeeds.com.au
Work with Veronica: https://www.veronicamorgan.com.au
Looking for a Mortgage Broker? alcove.com.au
Work with Chris: chrisbates@alcove.com.au

Enjoyed 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/@theelephantintheroom-podcast
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-elephant-in-the-room-property-podcast/id1384822719
Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3r0nnJrLUu3t1GpO7X3j6E

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!
See you on the inside,
Veronica & Chris

Australia's latest housing policies are designed to make home ownership more accessible—but are they creating unintended consequences for investors, renters, and the broader property market?
In this episode, property data expert Kent Lardner returns to examine what the numbers are already revealing about investor behaviour following the Federal Budget, and why the government's expectations may not match reality.
Drawing on decades of experience analysing suburb-level property data, Kent explains why many investors are unlikely to rush into newly built properties despite generous tax incentives. Instead, many may simply sit on the sidelines, waiting for political uncertainty to settle, while established investment properties gradually disappear from the rental pool. The conversation explores why cash flow alone rarely drives successful investing, how inventory levels tell a very different story from headline listings data, and why inner-ring suburbs across Sydney and Melbourne may prove far more resilient than many expect.
The discussion also dives into the changing behaviour of buyer's agents, the rise of "spreadsheet investing," Brisbane's slowing momentum, and the lessons Australia may be able to learn from New Zealand's recent property market correction. Along the way, Veronica, Chris, and Kent challenge some of the biggest assumptions currently dominating the housing debate—including whether encouraging investors into new developments will actually improve affordability.
Whether you're an investor, buyer's agent, homeowner or simply trying to understand where Australia's property market is heading next, this episode offers a data-driven perspective that cuts through the political headlines and focuses on what the numbers are really saying.
Episode Highlights
02:20 Will the Budget Really Change Investor Behaviour?
05:37 The Supply Problem Nobody's Talking About
07:03 Are Buyer's Agents Chasing the Wrong Strategy?
12:13 What Happens When Investors Leave the Market?
25:42 Why Listings Don't Tell the Whole Market Story
30:54 The Truth About Investor Demand Right Now
33:02 Why Buyers Disappear in Falling Markets
35:32 Why New Builds Aren't Winning Investors Over
41:21 Which Cities Still Offer the Best Opportunities?
45:21 Where Investor Demand Could Create Future Risks
47:43 Final Thoughts & Your Property Questions Answered
About the Guest
Kent Lardner is one of Australia's most respected property data analysts, bringing more than three decades of experience interpreting housing market trends at both macro and suburb level. Best known for helping investors, researchers and property professionals understand what lies beneath headline statistics, Kent has built a career transforming complex data into practical market intelligence.
Throughout his career, Kent has contributed to some of Australia's most influential property data platforms, including CoreLogic, and has become widely recognised for his expertise in market cycles, housing supply, inventory analysis, rental trends and statistical modelling. His work has helped shape how property professionals assess investment opportunities beyond median prices and broad market averages.
Today, Kent continues his research through Founded, where he analyses housing market dynamics, investor behaviour and emerging trends across Australia. His evidence-based approach and ability to challenge conventional wisdom have made him a trusted voice for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the property market.
Connect with Kent
LinkedIn | Kent Lardner
Website | Suburbtrends
Instagram | Kent Lardner

Resources
Visit our website: https://www.theelephantintheroom.com.au
If you have any questions or would like to be featured on our show, contact us at:
The Elephant in the Room Property Podcast - questions@theelephantintheroom.com.au
Looking for a Sydney Buyers Agent? https://www.gooddeeds.com.au
Work with Veronica: https://www.veronicamorgan.com.au
Looking for a Mortgage Broker? alcove.com.au
Work with Chris: chrisbates@alcove.com.au

Enjoyed 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/@theelephantintheroom-podcast
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-elephant-in-the-room-property-podcast/id1384822719
Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3r0nnJrLUu3t1GpO7X3j6E

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!
See you on the inside,
Veronica & Chris

Negative gearing is one of the most divisive topics in Australian property—and few people are willing to have a genuine conversation about it.
In this episode, Chris Bates and Veronica Morgan sit down with renowned economist Saul Eslake to explore one of the biggest policy debates in housing, challenging long-held assumptions on all sides of the argument.
Rather than debating who's right or wrong, the conversation unpacks the economic principles behind negative gearing, the capital gains tax discount, and why tax policy shapes where Australians choose to invest. Saul explains why he believes a more neutral tax system would create a fairer economy, while Chris and Veronica question what the proposed reforms could mean for housing supply, investor behaviour, rents, and affordability.
The discussion extends well beyond property tax. They examine Australia's reliance on mum-and-dad investors, the role of institutional investment and social housing, why encouraging new housing supply matters, and whether Australia has become too dependent on property as a wealth-building vehicle. Along the way, they tackle productivity, government policy, and the difficult trade-offs involved in creating a housing system that works for both investors and aspiring homeowners.
Whether you agree with Saul's views or not, this episode offers a rare opportunity to hear a respectful, evidence-based discussion between people who don't always see eye to eye. If you've ever wondered whether negative gearing really solves—or contributes to—Australia's housing challenges, this conversation will give you plenty to think about.
Episode Highlights
01:34 – Meet Saul Eslake
05:30 – Why Property Beats Startups on Tax
10:56 – The CGT Discount Explained
14:45 – Challenging the Case for Tax Reform
16:42 – Does Negative Gearing Increase Supply?
18:12 – Do Tax Incentives Really Build More Homes?
23:07 – Who Wins, Who Loses Under Tax Reform?
28:56 – The Unintended Consequences of Reform
31:46 – Has Australia Become Addicted to Property?
34:44 – Why Social Housing Keeps Falling Short
38:32 – What Happens If Investors Leave?
41:24 – Can Supply Incentives Really Work?
45:36 – Why Cheap Apartments Are Disappearing
49:06 – Is Australia's Tax System Really Fair?
54:02 – What's Behind Australia's Productivity Slump?
59:04 – Why Higher Inflation May Be Here to Stay
About the Guest
Saul Eslake is one of Australia's most respected independent economists, with decades of experience analysing the Australian economy, public policy, housing markets and taxation. Throughout his career, he has served as Chief Economist for ANZ Bank and Bank of America Merrill Lynch Australia, while also advising governments, businesses and industry organisations on economic policy and reform.
Known for his evidence-based approach and willingness to challenge conventional thinking, Saul is a leading voice on issues including housing affordability, taxation, productivity and Australia's long-term economic future. His commentary regularly appears across Australia's major media outlets, where he helps translate complex economic issues into practical insights.
Connect with Saul
LinkedIn | Saul Eslake
Website | Saul Eslake
YouTube | Saul Eslake

Resources
Visit our website: https://www.theelephantintheroom.com.au
If you have any questions or would like to be featured on our show, contact us at:
The Elephant in the Room Property Podcast - questions@theelephantintheroom.com.au
Looking for a Sydney Buyers Agent? https://www.gooddeeds.com.au
Work with Veronica: https://www.veronicamorgan.com.au
Looking for a Mortgage Broker? alcove.com.au
Work with Chris: chrisbates@alcove.com.au

Enjoyed 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/@theelephantintheroom-podcast
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-elephant-in-the-room-property-podcast/id1384822719
Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3r0nnJrLUu3t1GpO7X3j6E

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!
See you on the inside,
Veronica & Chris

Borderless property investing has become one of the fastest-growing strategies in real estate—but is it helping investors build wealth, or simply making it easier to sell property at scale?
In this episode, we are joined by buyer's advocate and negotiation expert Scott Aggett to unpack the rise of borderless buyer's agents and the risks investors need to understand before buying interstate. With proposed changes to negative gearing and capital gains tax reshaping the investment landscape, we examine whether high-volume, data-driven buying models are still fit for purpose, and why relying on market trends alone could leave investors exposed when it's time to sell.
Together, we explore the importance of due diligence, local market expertise, and having a clear exit strategy before purchasing an investment property. The conversation also tackles the growing role of AI in property research, the limitations of data-driven investing, buying sight unseen, and why choosing the right adviser may be just as important as choosing the right property.
Whether you're considering your first investment property or expanding your portfolio across Australia, this episode will challenge some of the industry's biggest assumptions and help you build a smarter, more resilient property investment strategy.
Episode Highlights
00:25 – Meet Scott Aggett: A Different Take on Property Advice
05:55 – Melbourne Units: Bargain Buy or Bad Investment?
08:21 – The Dangerous Side of Data-Driven Investing
14:57 – Property Horror Stories That Cost Investors Big
17:39 – Why the Budget Changed the Property Narrative
21:55 – Who's Regulating Buyer's Agents?
27:23 – Raising the Standard for Buyer's Agents
30:20 – AI Won't Replace Property Expertise—Here's Why
37:41 – The Investor's Dilemma After the Budget
41:31 – Four Strategies for Today's Property Investors
44:49 – Where Smart Investors Should Be Looking Next
49:49 – Why Portfolio Hype Can Hurt Your Wealth
About the Guest
Scott Aggett is a buyer's advocate, negotiation specialist, and property professional with extensive experience representing buyers across Australia's property market. Having worked on both the selling and buying sides of real estate, Scott brings a unique perspective on how properties are marketed, negotiated, and ultimately purchased.
Through his work with Green Shoots, Scott has built a reputation for strategic advice, rigorous due diligence, and skilled negotiation, helping clients make informed property decisions rather than simply facilitating transactions. His approach combines practical market knowledge with a strong focus on protecting buyers from costly mistakes in an increasingly complex property landscape.
In this episode, Scott shares his insights on the rise of borderless buyer's agents, the evolving role of AI in property investing, and why long-term thinking, local expertise, and professional due diligence remain essential for successful property investment.
Connect with Scott
LinkedIn | Scott Aggett
Website| Scott Aggett
Website | Green Shoots Property
LinkedIn | Green Shoot

Resources
Visit our website: https://www.theelephantintheroom.com.au
If you have any questions or would like to be featured on our show, contact us at:
The Elephant in the Room Property Podcast - questions@theelephantintheroom.com.au
Looking for a Sydney Buyers Agent? https://www.gooddeeds.com.au
Work with Veronica: https://www.veronicamorgan.com.au
Looking for a Mortgage Broker? alcove.com.au
Work with Chris: chrisbates@alcove.com.au

Enjoyed 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/@theelephantintheroom-podcast
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-elephant-in-the-room-property-podcast/id1384822719
Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3r0nnJrLUu3t1GpO7X3j6E

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!
See you on the inside,
Veronica & Chris