043: Karen Young of Property Zest | North Brisbane & Southern Sunshine Coast

043: Karen Young of Property Zest | North Brisbane & Southern Sunshine Coast

“You can buy near the train station in Caboolture—but you want to be a little bit careful, because it can be a bit rough and ready.” Brisbane’s northern corridor has delivered some of Australia’s strongest growth over the past decade, but navigating the region today requires more than simply following affordability or infrastructure headlines. This week, Chris sits down with Karen Young from Property Zest. After starting as an investor herself and building a buyer’s agency over 14 years ago, Karen has helped clients buy across Brisbane’s north side, Moreton Bay, and the Sunshine Coast through both slow markets and boom cycles. They discuss how affordability has changed, why some investor-heavy pockets have underperformed, the suburbs benefiting from transport upgrades, and why Brighton, Redcliffe, Sandgate, Petrie, and Strathpine continue to attract owner-occupiers. Karen also explains why she’s cautious around large townhouse developments and shares the local knowledge interstate buyers often miss. Whether you're looking for an investment property, a future lifestyle move, or simply trying to understand where Brisbane’s next opportunities may come from, this episode is packed with practical insights from someone who knows the streets firsthand. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS 02:35 — How an ICU Nurse Became a Buyer's Agent 08:09 — The Sunshine Coast Pockets Still Worth Buying 14:57 — The Brisbane Train Line Buying Strategy 19:59 — Why Redcliffe Keeps Winning Buyers 25:39 — The Secret to Picking the Right Pocket 28:41 — The Street Test Every Buyer Should Know 33:34 — Booms, Busts & What Most Buyer's Agents Never Experienced 37:04 — Why Boutique Agencies Outperform the Big Players ABOUT THE GUEST Karen Young is the founder of Property Zest, a boutique buyer’s agency servicing Brisbane’s north side, Moreton Bay, and the Sunshine Coast. Before entering property, Karen worked as an intensive care nurse before transitioning into IT as a business analyst and project manager. Her analytical background naturally led her into property investing, where she built her own portfolio before launching her buyer’s agency in 2012. Karen was also one of Australia’s earliest property podcasters, launching her investment podcast in 2011—well before podcasting became mainstream in the property industry. Over the past 14 years, she has helped investors and owner-occupiers navigate Queensland markets through changing cycles, developing deep relationships with local agents and a reputation for practical, street-level market knowledge. Her business also supports clients with property management, renovation advice, and long-term portfolio strategy. CONNECT WITH KAREN * LinkedIn | Karen Young [https://www.linkedin.com/in/karen-young-property-zest/] * LinkedIn | Property Zest [https://www.linkedin.com/company/property-zest/] * Website| Property Zest [https://www.propertyzest.com.au/] WORK WITH CHRIS (ALCOVE) * Business Webpage Link - https://alcove.com.au * Email - hello@alcove.com.au [hello@alcove.com.au] * Contact Alcove at: (1300 252683) * Socials: * LinkedIn (Alcove) - https://www.linkedin.com/company/alcovemb [https://www.linkedin.com/company/alcovemb] * LinkedIn (Chris) - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherbates/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherbates/] * Instagram (Chris) - https://www.instagram.com/chrisbates_alcove/ [https://www.instagram.com/chrisbates_alcove/] 🗓️Book a chat with us! [https://meetings.hubspot.com/hello-at-alcove/cx-initial-discovery-call]🗓️ FOLLOW US ON OUR SOCIALS! * YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@street-secrets] * LinkedIn [http://linkedin.com/company/108454250/] * Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/street_secrets_podcast/] * TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@street_secrets_podcast] 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/@street-secrets [https://www.youtube.com/@street-secrets] * Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/street-secrets/id1837331268 [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/street-secrets/id1837331268] * Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7sBYmpcuxCYwceQiHdBnaq?si=2Gdl60HRRWCBoUlcBHB0nA [https://open.spotify.com/show/7sBYmpcuxCYwceQiHdBnaq?si=2Gdl60HRRWCBoUlcBHB0nA] The information provided in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as financial, investment, or credit advice. It does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation, or needs. You should consider the appropriateness of the information to your circumstances and seek advice from a licensed financial adviser, mortgage broker, or other qualified professional before making any decision. Canopy Private Pty Ltd holds Australian Credit Licence 558709.

042: Scott McGeever of Property Searchers | Brisbane

"Stick to quality. A quality asset will always appreciate, or at least hold its ground when the market softens." – Scott McGeever Few people have witnessed Brisbane's property evolution as closely as Scott McGeever. After starting as a valuer and becoming Brisbane's first buyer's agent in 1999, Scott has spent more than two decades helping buyers navigate changing markets, shifting trends, and major economic cycles. In this episode, Scott joins Chris Bates to reflect on Brisbane's journey from a relatively overlooked market to one of Australia's most talked-about property cities. They discuss the early 2000s boom, the post-flood stagnation years, the COVID surge, and the factors that continue to shape Brisbane's future. Scott also explains why street selection matters just as much as suburb selection, how infrastructure and development influence long-term performance, and why experience becomes even more valuable when markets become uncertain. Whether you're investing, upgrading your family home, or simply trying to understand Brisbane better, this conversation offers practical insights from someone who's seen it all. Listen now to learn what decades of market experience can teach you about making smarter property decisions. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS 01:32 — How Brisbane's First Buyer's Agent Got Started 04:32 — 30 Years of Brisbane Property Cycles Explained 07:28 — Why Quality Assets Outperform Every Market 11:36 — Why Scott Returned to a Boutique Model 15:13 — Where Brisbane's Best Value Is Right Now 18:59 — Olympics, Apartments & Brisbane's Next Chapter 26:55 — How Development Shapes Future Property Growth 32:49 — Why Relationships Matter in Changing Markets ABOUT THE GUEST Scott McGeever is one of Australia's longest-serving buyer's agents and is widely regarded as Brisbane's first dedicated buyer's agent, having established his business in 1999. Before entering buyer advocacy, Scott worked as a government property valuer, specialising in land valuation and developing a deep understanding of Brisbane's property fundamentals. He later moved into private valuation and property advisory work before being introduced to the concept of buyer's agency through an overseas client relocating to Brisbane. Over the past 25+ years, Scott has helped buyers navigate multiple Brisbane property cycles, including the early-2000s boom, the GFC period, post-flood market stagnation, and the recent COVID-driven growth phase. Throughout his career, he has built his reputation around identifying quality assets, understanding street-level nuances, and helping clients avoid costly mistakes. Today, Scott works directly with clients in a highly personalised model, leveraging decades of local knowledge to help buyers secure quality property across Brisbane. CONNECT WITH SCOTT * LinkedIn | Scott McGeever [https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-mcgeever-7232742/] * Instagram | Scott McGeever [https://www.instagram.com/scottmcgeever_buyersadvocate/] * Website | Property Searchers [https://propertysearchers.com.au/] WORK WITH CHRIS (ALCOVE) * Business Webpage Link - https://alcove.com.au * Email - hello@alcove.com.au [hello@alcove.com.au] * Contact Alcove at: (1300 252683) * Socials: * LinkedIn (Alcove) - https://www.linkedin.com/company/alcovemb [https://www.linkedin.com/company/alcovemb] * LinkedIn (Chris) - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherbates/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherbates/] * Instagram (Chris) - https://www.instagram.com/chrisbates_alcove/ [https://www.instagram.com/chrisbates_alcove/] 🗓️Book a chat with us! [https://meetings.hubspot.com/hello-at-alcove/cx-initial-discovery-call]🗓️ FOLLOW US ON OUR SOCIALS! * YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@street-secrets] * LinkedIn [http://linkedin.com/company/108454250/] * Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/street_secrets_podcast/] * TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@street_secrets_podcast] 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/@street-secrets [https://www.youtube.com/@street-secrets] * Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/street-secrets/id1837331268 [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/street-secrets/id1837331268] * Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7sBYmpcuxCYwceQiHdBnaq?si=2Gdl60HRRWCBoUlcBHB0nA [https://open.spotify.com/show/7sBYmpcuxCYwceQiHdBnaq?si=2Gdl60HRRWCBoUlcBHB0nA] The information provided in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as financial, investment, or credit advice. It does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation, or needs. You should consider the appropriateness of the information to your circumstances and seek advice from a licensed financial adviser, mortgage broker, or other qualified professional before making any decision. Canopy Private Pty Ltd holds Australian Credit Licence 558709.

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

“People say buyers' advocates help you buy the right house. They help you not buy the wrong house.” – Michael Ramsay Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula have transformed from lifestyle destinations into some of Australia's most talked-about property markets. But beneath the headlines, local knowledge still matters more than ever. Chris Bates is joined by Michael Ramsay, one of Australia's longest-serving buyer's advocates, who has spent nearly 30 years helping buyers secure property across Melbourne, Geelong, the Bellarine Peninsula and the Surf Coast. They discuss the migration of Melbourne buyers to coastal Victoria, the lifestyle differences between the Bellarine and Surf Coast, Geelong's long-term growth prospects, school zones, prestige pockets, and why local relationships remain critical when buying property. Whether you're an investor, upgrader, sea-changer or first-home buyer, this episode offers an insider's perspective on one of Victoria's most dynamic regions. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS 01:12 – Meet Michael Ramsay: 28 Years in Property 04:32 – Lessons from Melbourne’s Inner-City Market 06:39 – Spotting Opportunity on the Bellarine 13:09 – Surf Coast or Bellarine: Where Buyers Choose 14:35 – Land Tax: Real Impact or Overblown Concern? 17:16 – The Mistakes Coastal Buyers Keep Making 20:28 – Acreage Living: Lifestyle vs Investment 23:20 – How Schools Shape Local Property Demand 25:10 – Geelong vs Coastal Living: What Buyers Prefer 31:10 – Why Geelong Still Has Strong Fundamentals 35:52 – How Agent Relationships Unlock Better Deals 38:02 – The Trust Factor in Property Negotiations 41:08 – Michael’s Final Advice for Buyers ABOUT THE GUEST Michael Ramsay is one of Australia's longest-serving buyer's advocates, having started his buyer's advocacy business in 1998 after a decade in residential real estate sales. He began his career selling real estate in Melbourne before becoming a partner at RT Edgar, eventually leaving sales to represent buyers exclusively. Michael spent approximately 14 years operating in Melbourne before relocating to the Bellarine Peninsula, where he now specialises in Geelong, the Bellarine Peninsula and the Surf Coast markets. He was also a founding figure behind REBAA (Real Estate Buyers Agents Association of Australia), helping establish professional standards within the buyer's advocacy industry. Throughout his career, Michael has built a reputation for deep local knowledge, strong agent relationships, and helping buyers avoid costly property mistakes. CONNECT WITH MICHAEL * LinkedIn | Michael Ramsay [https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-ramsay-20b494139/] * LinkedIn | The Advocates Property Advisory [https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-advocates-property-advisory/] WORK WITH CHRIS (ALCOVE) * Business Webpage Link - https://alcove.com.au * Email - hello@alcove.com.au [hello@alcove.com.au] * Contact Alcove at: (1300 252683) * Socials: * LinkedIn (Alcove) - https://www.linkedin.com/company/alcovemb [https://www.linkedin.com/company/alcovemb] * LinkedIn (Chris) - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherbates/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherbates/] * Instagram (Chris) - https://www.instagram.com/chrisbates_alcove/ [https://www.instagram.com/chrisbates_alcove/] 🗓️Book a chat with us! [https://meetings.hubspot.com/hello-at-alcove/cx-initial-discovery-call]🗓️ FOLLOW US ON OUR SOCIALS! * YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@street-secrets] * LinkedIn [http://linkedin.com/company/108454250/] * Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/street_secrets_podcast/] * TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@street_secrets_podcast] 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/@street-secrets [https://www.youtube.com/@street-secrets] * Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/street-secrets/id1837331268 [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/street-secrets/id1837331268] * Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7sBYmpcuxCYwceQiHdBnaq?si=2Gdl60HRRWCBoUlcBHB0nA [https://open.spotify.com/show/7sBYmpcuxCYwceQiHdBnaq?si=2Gdl60HRRWCBoUlcBHB0nA] The information provided in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as financial, investment, or credit advice. It does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation, or needs. You should consider the appropriateness of the information to your circumstances and seek advice from a licensed financial adviser, mortgage broker, or other qualified professional before making any decision. Canopy Private Pty Ltd holds Australian Credit Licence 558709.

040: Ying Chan of Eclipse Property Advisory | Melbourne - North East

“The key word is lifestyle. That’s been really, really valuable to buyers post-COVID.” – Ying Chan Melbourne’s Outer East has quietly become one of the city’s most desirable regions for families, owner-occupiers and long-term investors. With strong schools, established communities, larger blocks and access to some of Victoria’s best lifestyle amenities, demand continues to evolve beyond the traditional inner-city focus. In this episode, Chris Bates sits down with Ying Chan, Director of Eclipse Property and a buyer’s advocate with more than 14 years of experience helping clients navigate Melbourne’s property market. Together they unpack the suburbs driving demand across Ringwood, Croydon, Blackburn, Knox, Warrandyte and Park Orchards, why school catchments matter so much, and how changing work patterns have increased demand for larger homes and lifestyle-focused locations. Ying also shares her perspective on Melbourne’s current market conditions, the opportunities available to upsizers, and the importance of taking a long-term view when making property decisions. Whether you're buying a home, investing, or simply trying to understand where Melbourne is headed next, this conversation offers valuable on-the-ground insights from one of the city's most experienced advocates. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS 01:52 – From Banking To Buyer Advocacy: Ying Chan’s Journey 03:01 – Building A Buyer’s Agency Team That Delivers 05:48 – Why Melbourne’s Outer East Keeps Attracting Buyers 07:41 – The Schools, Transport & Growth Formula 11:30 – Blackburn vs Warrandyte: The Post-COVID Shift 14:58 – The Lifestyle Villages Buyers Are Chasing 16:47 – Land, Growth & The Investor Playbook 18:41 – Mid-Century Gems And Architectural Hidden Treasures 20:26 – Multicultural Demand And Local Area Intelligence 26:01 – Agent Relationships That Unlock Better Deals 30:10 – Why Melbourne’s Market Still Offers Opportunity 38:21 – Final Thoughts On Melbourne’s Outer East ABOUT THE GUEST Ying Chan is the Director of Eclipse Property and has worked as a buyer’s advocate for more than 14 years. Prior to founding her own business, she worked in insurance serving medical professionals and began her career through ANZ’s graduate program, giving her strong experience across banking, lending, valuations and finance. Before launching Eclipse Property, Ying worked as a buyer’s and vendor’s advocate within a national property valuation firm, helping build a deep understanding of Melbourne’s property market and valuation processes. Today, she leads a growing team that assists home buyers and investors across Melbourne, with particular expertise in the city’s eastern suburbs. Her approach combines detailed local market knowledge, strategic property selection and long-term planning to help clients make confident property decisions. CONNECT WITH YING CHAN * LinkedIn - Ying Chan [https://www.linkedin.com/in/chanying/] * LinkedIn - Eclipse Property [https://www.linkedin.com/company/eclipsepropertyadvisory/] * Instagram - Eclipse Property [https://www.instagram.com/eclipseproperty/] * Website - Eclipse Property Advisory [https://eclipseproperty.com.au/] * Facebook Page - Ying Chan [https://www.facebook.com/ying.chan.526438/] * Facebook Page - Eclipse Property [https://www.facebook.com/eclipsepropertyadvisory] WORK WITH CHRIS (ALCOVE) * Business Webpage Link - https://alcove.com.au * Email - hello@alcove.com.au [hello@alcove.com.au] * Contact Alcove at: (1300 252683) * Socials: * LinkedIn (Alcove) - https://www.linkedin.com/company/alcovemb [https://www.linkedin.com/company/alcovemb] * LinkedIn (Chris) - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherbates/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherbates/] * Instagram (Chris) - https://www.instagram.com/chrisbates_alcove/ [https://www.instagram.com/chrisbates_alcove/] 🗓️Book a chat with us! [https://meetings.hubspot.com/hello-at-alcove/cx-initial-discovery-call]🗓️ FOLLOW US ON OUR SOCIALS! * YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@street-secrets] * LinkedIn [http://linkedin.com/company/108454250/] * Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/street_secrets_podcast/] * TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@street_secrets_podcast] 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/@street-secrets [https://www.youtube.com/@street-secrets] * Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/street-secrets/id1837331268 [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/street-secrets/id1837331268] * Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7sBYmpcuxCYwceQiHdBnaq?si=2Gdl60HRRWCBoUlcBHB0nA [https://open.spotify.com/show/7sBYmpcuxCYwceQiHdBnaq?si=2Gdl60HRRWCBoUlcBHB0nA] The information provided in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as financial, investment, or credit advice. It does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation, or needs. You should consider the appropriateness of the information to your circumstances and seek advice from a licensed financial adviser, mortgage broker, or other qualified professional before making any decision. Canopy Private Pty Ltd holds Australian Credit Licence 558709.

039: Chris Curtis of Curtis Associates | Inner City - Sydney

“Scarcity drives value… and most people don’t understand what real scarcity looks like.” – Chris Curtis Inner city Sydney is one of the most competitive and misunderstood property markets in Australia. In this episode, Chris Curtis breaks down what actually drives value—and where buyers get it wrong. With over 20 years as a buyer’s agent (and a background as a barrister and Macquarie Bank executive), Chris shares how trust, off-market access, and deep due diligence separate good deals from costly mistakes. From Potts Point to Surry Hills, he explains what buyers should be looking for—and what to avoid. We dive into downsizer demand, why many developments are missing the mark, the risks hiding in strata, and how planning changes like LMR and TOD are reshaping the market. If you’re buying or investing in Sydney’s inner city, this episode will sharpen how you assess value, risk, and long-term upside. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS 01:09 – From Barrister To Sydney Buyer’s Agent 03:54 – Buyer’s Agent Regulation Crisis Explained 05:14 – Why Trust Matters More Than Transactions 07:00 – Off-Market Access Through Agent Relationships 09:16 – What’s Driving Sydney’s Inner-City Demand? 09:46 – Budget Changes, Tax Risks & Owner-Occupiers 12:43 – Downsizers, Developers & Market Disconnects 16:12 – Why Affordable Housing Isn’t Affordable 19:30 – Rethinking Space: The Case For Vertical Living 23:24 – Scarcity Drives Value: The Estate Trap 25:01 – Finding Scarcity In Sydney Apartment Markets 27:23 – Due Diligence Mistakes That Cost Millions 29:31 – AI, Property Research & Off-Market Myths 31:19 – LMR, TODs & The Planning Uncertainty Ahead ABOUT THE GUEST Chris Curtis is the founder of Curtis Associates and a highly experienced buyer’s agent specialising in Sydney’s inner city property market. Before becoming a buyer’s agent over 20 years ago, Chris spent 17 years as a barrister and later worked in property at Macquarie Bank. His career blends legal, financial, and property expertise, giving him a unique edge in high-stakes acquisitions. Chris has acted for a wide range of high-profile clients, including senior legal figures and executives, with over 85% of his business coming from repeat clients and referrals. He is known for his conflict-free approach, deep off-market access (often sourcing 90–95% of deals this way), and a strong focus on fiduciary duty—prioritising client outcomes over transactions. CONNECT WITH CHRIS * Website - Curtis Associates [https://www.curtisassociates.com.au/] * Facebook Page - Curtis Associates [https://www.facebook.com/CurtisAssociates] * LinkedIn - Chirs Curtis [https://www.linkedin.com/in/chriscurtisgr8buy/] * LinkedIn - Curtis Associates [https://www.linkedin.com/company/curtis-associates/] WORK WITH CHRIS (ALCOVE) * Business Webpage Link - https://alcove.com.au * Email - hello@alcove.com.au [hello@alcove.com.au] * Contact Alcove at: (1300 252683) * Socials: * LinkedIn (Alcove) - https://www.linkedin.com/company/alcovemb [https://www.linkedin.com/company/alcovemb] * LinkedIn (Chris) - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherbates/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherbates/] * Instagram (Chris) - https://www.instagram.com/chrisbates_alcove/ [https://www.instagram.com/chrisbates_alcove/] 🗓️Book a chat with us! [https://meetings.hubspot.com/hello-at-alcove/cx-initial-discovery-call]🗓️ FOLLOW US ON OUR SOCIALS! * YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@street-secrets] * LinkedIn [http://linkedin.com/company/108454250/] * Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/street_secrets_podcast/] * TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@street_secrets_podcast] 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/@street-secrets [https://www.youtube.com/@street-secrets] * Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/street-secrets/id1837331268 [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/street-secrets/id1837331268] * Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7sBYmpcuxCYwceQiHdBnaq?si=2Gdl60HRRWCBoUlcBHB0nA [https://open.spotify.com/show/7sBYmpcuxCYwceQiHdBnaq?si=2Gdl60HRRWCBoUlcBHB0nA] The information provided in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as financial, investment, or credit advice. It does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation, or needs. You should consider the appropriateness of the information to your circumstances and seek advice from a licensed financial adviser, mortgage broker, or other qualified professional before making any decision. Canopy Private Pty Ltd holds Australian Credit Licence 558709.