MRE UNCUT

Rentals Rewritten: New Rules, Pets, Heating & More in 2025

Big changes are here! In this episode of MRE Uncut, hosts Steve Fitzsimon and Pete Hooymans are joined by MRE's Head of Property Services, Tilly Gillan, to unpack the latest minimum standards for rental properties. From mandatory heating upgrades and improved energy efficiency to pet-friendly leasing laws. Plus, what do blackout blinds, security locks, and new property adjustment rules mean for landlords and tenants? Whether you're renting, investing, or managing, this is the update you can’t afford to miss.

New year, new investment? What Q1 means for your future

In this episode of MRE Uncut, Steve Fitzsimon is joined by Business Development Managers Ashton Emini and Kelly Levin to provide a rundown on Q1 2025, in particular the new clients who have seen major returns in just a few short months. With MRE's rents trending hundreds of dollars higher than expected, they unpack the reasons behind investment growth — from renter demographics to evolving tenant expectations — to help you discover if your investments are living up to their potential. Featuring expert analysis and staggering success stories, Kelly, Ashton and Steve share insights on what shifts are happening in the rental market, what tenants are looking for and how to maximise your rental yield with a few simple steps. If you're thinking of starting your property investment journey, or just changing agencies to increase your returns, this is the episode for you! What suburbs are popular with high-value tenants? What new laws might affect your investments? And how can you guarantee you're getting bang for your buck? If you want answers to your burning property questions, you've come to the right place.

Peak season unpacked: Tips and takeaways from the rental rush

In the second episode of this yearly tradition, Steve Fitzsimon sits down with Matt McKenna and Jarrod O'Donnell to discuss this year's peak season. With hard statistics and expert insights, they break down the trends that defined the season, including how it compared to previous years, which properties were in high demand and why now is a good time to start hunting for a rental. Whether you're a renter aiming to dodge the early-year rush, or an owner looking to understand the market and what makes tenants tick, this rundown is full of insider knowledge that will ensure you stay up to date and can maximise your opportunities. Where is demand highest? What new laws are shaping the market? And should you start looking for a rental now? If you want to know how to navigate the year ahead, this is the episode for you.

The unknown laws that can cost you big: How to keep your property compliant

MRE does what the government can't! In this episode of MRE Uncut, Steve and Laura sit down with Craig Topp from Property Compliance Victoria to break down the poorly publicised and confusing laws surrounding minimum standards for rental properties. Despite the exorbitant fines at stake, minimum standards remain a mystery to many rental providers. From ambiguous laws to contradictory Consumer Affairs advice, it can be hard to know just what the legislation is. Cut through the confusion with industry insights into what the law means, what isn't a violation and how to avoid a fine when the rubber meets the road. Learn how you can protect your investments without breaking the bank, and why an experienced property manager is your best friend when compliance is at stake.

Your Secret Weapon in Property - Cate Bakos talks Buyer’s Advocacy

In this episode, Steve Fitzsimon sits down with buyer’s advocate Cate Bakos to unpack what it’s really like to work with a buyer’s agent. From the types of clients she helps to the strategies she uses for investors and homebuyers alike, it’s a straight-talking overview of how advocacy works, who it’s for, and the tips Cate shares to help buyers avoid costly mistakes. If you’re thinking about engaging a buyer’s advocate or just want to understand the value they offer, this is the perfect place to start.