Welcome to WA Property Q&A, the ultimate podcast for property buyers in Western Australia. Join your host, Peter Fletcher, as he interviews a lineup of industry experts to bring you the latest insights, tips, and advice on navigating the Western Australian real estate market. Each week, Peter delves into the pressing questions and topics that matter most to property buyers in WA. From discussing the intricacies of property laws and regulations specific to the region to exploring the current market trends and opportunities, this podcast covers it all. Focusing on practical advice and real-life experiences, WA Property Q&A offers a valuable resource for real estate agents, property conveyancers, and anyone looking to purchase property in Western Australia. From understanding the local property market dynamics to uncovering hidden gems in different regions, this podcast equips you with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions. So, whether you're a first-time buyer, an experienced investor, or a real estate professional, tune in to the WA Property Q&A podcast for a weekly dose of expert interviews, insider tips, and engaging discussions that will help you navigate the world of property in Western Australia like a pro. Get ready to discover the secrets to successful property buying in WA!
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June 3, 2026Episode 5244 min
EP52 Why Most Real Estate Agents Fail (And What Actually Works)
How do you stand out in real estate without scripts, fake personas, or flashy gimmicks?In this episode of the WA Property Q&A Podcast, I sit down with Justin Merendino from Ray White, one of Perth’s fastest-rising agents, to break down how authenticity, consistency, and old-school work ethic are driving his success.Justin shares how a simple iPhone video turned into a powerful personal brand, why “Remember the Name” became his signature, and why he still relies heavily on cold calling and relationships—not just social media—to win listings.We also dive into what today’s property market looks like for buyers, why so many people are missing out on homes, and the mindset shift needed to actually secure a property in a competitive market.If you’re a real estate agent, property investor, or buyer trying to understand what really works in today’s market, this episode is packed with practical insights.In this episode we cover:• How Justin built a personal brand by “just being himself” • Why authenticity beats scripts and sales tactics • The role of cold calling vs social media in real estate success • How many calls top agents actually make every day • Why most buyers are missing out in today’s market • The mistake of “trial offers” when buying property • Why starting small is key for first-time buyers • Customer service, trust, and long-term relationship building • The mindset required to succeed in real estateIf you’re investing in property in Western Australia, understanding how cities grow and where infrastructure is going is critical to long-term investment decisions.✅ Subscribe to The WA Property Q&A Podcast✅ Share this episode with other property investors and developers✅ Visit https://rezzi.com.au for more WA property insights and resourcesPodcast Hub: https://rezzi.com.au/podcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rezziau/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@rezzi5526Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review — it helps more WA property investors learn how the market really works.
May 27, 2026Episode 5142 min
EP51 Urban Growth, Housing Supply & The Future Shape of Perth: with Tim Connoley
In this episode, I sit down with Tim Connoley, Partner at Urbis, to talk about the big-picture forces shaping Perth’s growth, housing supply, and the future structure of our city. Tim works with large-scale developers and government on major urban development projects, so he brings a unique perspective on how cities actually grow, not just where houses are built, but how infrastructure, migration, planning, and economics all come together to shape communities over decades.We discuss population growth, urban sprawl versus infill development, housing affordability, infrastructure constraints, and the long timelines involved in delivering new housing supply. Tim also explains the concept of “gentle density,” why greenfield developments are still necessary, and how government policy, planning systems, and infrastructure investment influence where and how Perth grows. If you want to understand why housing supply takes so long and what Perth might look like in 10–20 years, this episode is essential listening.Key Topics Covered✅ Population growth and migration shaping Perth’s expansion✅ Urban sprawl vs infill development — why we need both✅ Why housing supply takes years (sometimes decades) to deliver✅ Infrastructure constraints — water, power, roads, and transport✅ How developers plan new suburbs and master-planned communities✅ What makes a suburb successful and livable✅ Housing affordability and the role of government✅ Regional housing challenges and market failure✅ Gentle density, townhouses, and low-rise apartments✅ Innovation in housing construction (prefab, steel frame homes)✅ The future shape of Perth over the next 10–20 yearsIf you’re investing in property in Western Australia, understanding how cities grow and where infrastructure is going is critical to long-term investment decisions.✅ Subscribe to The WA Property Q&A Podcast✅ Share this episode with other property investors and developers✅ Visit https://rezzi.com.au for more WA property insights and resourcesPodcast Hub: https://rezzi.com.au/podcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rezziau/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@rezzi5526
April 1, 202644 min
EP50 Policy, Planning & the Future of WA Housing — With Michael McGowan
In this episode, I sit down with Michael McGowan to unpack the role government policy plays in shaping the WA property market. From planning reform to housing supply and affordability, we explore how decisions made at a policy level flow directly through to property prices, development feasibility, and investor outcomes.Michael shares his perspective on the challenges facing Western Australia—from balancing growth with infrastructure, to managing community expectations, to unlocking new housing supply. We also discuss the complexities of government intervention, the trade-offs involved in reform, and what needs to happen to create a more efficient and sustainable housing system.If you’re a property investor trying to understand how policy impacts the market—and where opportunities and risks may emerge—this episode is essential listening.Key Topics Covered✅ The role of government policy in housing supply and affordability✅ Planning reform and its impact on development timelines✅ Infrastructure constraints and their effect on housing delivery✅ The balance between community expectations and growth✅ Government intervention vs market-driven outcomes✅ Challenges in accelerating housing supply in WA✅ The long-term vision for housing and urban developmentIf you want to stay ahead as a property investor, understanding policy and planning is critical.✅ Subscribe to the WA Property Q&A Podcast✅ Share this episode with fellow investors and professionals✅ Visit https://rezzi.com.au for more WA property insightsConnect with MeWebsite: https://rezzi.com.au/Podcast Hub: https://rezzi.com.au/podcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rezziau/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@rezzi5526
March 17, 2026Episode 4946 min
EP49: Why Most Small Property Developments Fail (And How to Avoid It) — With Karlie Wolfe
Episode Summary:In this episode, I sit down with Karlie Wolfe, Senior Director of Residential Development & Advisory at Opteon, to unpack how professional valuers assess development feasibility and what really determines whether a project stacks up.Karlie brings over two decades of experience valuing residential development projects across Western Australia—from small triplex sites to large-scale apartment towers. We dive deep into the numbers behind development: how land values are calculated, why construction costs are crippling some projects, and what junior developers often underestimate when they first get started.If you’ve ever wondered how banks evaluate development deals, why certain projects never get built, or what separates profitable developments from financial disasters, this episode is essential listening.Key Topics Covered✅ How valuers assess development feasibility for banks and developers✅ The key factors that determine whether a development site is viable✅ Why location, site shape, and topography dramatically impact profitability✅ The residual land value method used to calculate what developers can afford to pay✅ Why construction costs are the biggest challenge facing developers today✅ The difference between small-scale townhouse developments and large apartment projects✅ Why Perth has a “dead zone” in medium-density apartment supply✅ The ongoing supply shortage driving Perth property prices higherActionable Insights for Property Investors & DevelopersUnderstand Your Costs: GST, site works, finance costs, and holding costs can dramatically change feasibility.Flat Land Matters: Sloping sites can add tens of thousands in retaining walls and site preparation.Design Drives Profitability: Well-designed smaller homes often sell better than larger poorly designed ones.Avoid Overcapitalising: Match finishes to the suburb and target buyer profile.Use Professional Advice Early: Valuers, builders, and local agents can help validate your assumptions before committing to a purchase.Feasibility Must Work Today: Banks and valuers assess projects based on today’s market—not predicted future growth.Connect with MeWebsite: https://rezzi.com.au/Podcast Hub: https://rezzi.com.au/podcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rezziau/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@rezzi5526Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review — it helps more WA property investors discover the insights they need to make smarter decisions.
February 25, 2026Episode 4841 min
EP48 Planning, Density & The Future of WA Housing — A Conversation with Cameron Leckey
In this episode, I sit down with Cameron Leckey — owner of Rise Urban and WA President of the Planning Institute — to unpack one of the biggest questions facing Western Australia: how do we actually build more housing without destroying the character of our suburbs?Cameron brings a rare inside perspective on how planning really works — from 10-year greenfield developments to infill density around train stations. We explore why planning sometimes feels like “computer says no,” what needs to change in order to address affordability, and how infrastructure, rezoning, and community consultation all shape the homes that eventually hit the market.If you want to understand why supply is slow, where density is heading, and what the future “Australian Dream” looks like, this episode is essential listening.Key Topics Covered✅ Why housing developments can take 10+ years from paddock to titles✅ The role of structure plans, rezoning, and infrastructure sequencing✅ Whether planning is slowing down housing supply✅ Why developers aren’t the villains many think they are✅ The reality of NIMBY vs YIMBY movements✅ The State Government’s density push around train stations✅ Infill at scale vs backyard subdivisions✅ The evolving “Australian Dream” — from land size to lifestyleActionable Insights for Property InvestorsUnderstand the Time Lag: New land supply doesn’t appear overnight — 10-year pipelines are common.Watch Transport Nodes: Density around train stations will drive future growth and value shifts.Infill at Scale Is Key: Large infill sites (like former government land) will shape Perth’s next growth phase.Infrastructure Drives Value: Roads, pipes, schools and power dictate where housing can actually happen.Demographic Shifts Matter: Downsizers are prioritising location and convenience over land size.Connect with MeWebsite: https://rezzi.com.au/Podcast Hub: https://rezzi.com.au/podcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rezziau/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@rezzi5526Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review — it helps more WA property investors make informed decisions.
January 28, 2026Episode 4741 min
EP47: Auctions, Transparency & Government Intervention — What Property Investors Need to Know
In this episode, I’m joined by Robert Mandanici, Vice President of REIWA and Director of Paddington Realty, to unpack one of the most debated topics in Australian real estate right now: transparency in property sales and the growing role of government intervention. We start by examining proposed changes coming out of Victoria around compulsory disclosure of auction reserve prices—and why those reforms could have unintended consequences for both buyers and sellers.Rob brings a seasoned, on-the-ground perspective to the conversation, explaining why auctions, when conducted properly, can actually be one of the most transparent sales methods available. We also explore how WA’s market differs from the eastern states, the risks of poorly designed regulation, and what investors should be watching as governments respond to housing affordability, planning reform, and sustainability pressures.Key Topics Covered:✅ Why compulsory disclosure of auction reserves may backfire✅ Auctions vs private treaty — transparency myths and realities✅ How buyers can end up bidding against themselves in low-stock markets✅ The impact of government intervention on property prices and transaction speed✅ Why WA’s auction framework differs from Victoria and NSW✅ Planning reform around transport hubs and higher-density living✅ Sustainability, insurance risk, and how banks are shaping property values✅ The growing role of AI and data in real estate decision-makingActionable Insights for Property Investors:Understand the Method of Sale: Auctions can be highly transparent—but only when properly regulated and understood.Beware of Unintended Regulation: Government reforms can change buyer behaviour and pricing dynamics in unexpected ways.Know Your Market: WA operates very differently from the eastern states—don’t assume policies translate cleanly.Watch Planning Changes Closely: Density around transport hubs will reshape long-term supply and values.Factor in Sustainability: Insurance and lending criteria are increasingly influencing what properties can be financed or insured.Connect with MeWebsite: https://rezzi.com.au/Podcast Hub: https://rezzi.com.au/podcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rezziau/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@rezzi5526Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review—it helps other WA property investors find the information they need to make better decisions.
October 22, 2025Episode 4646 min
EP46: From Risk to Reward: What Smart Investors Should Know About Strata
Strata property can be a smart investment—but it can also turn into a financial nightmare if you don’t understand the risks. In this episode, I sit down with my business partner at Rezzi Strata, Nikki D’Agostino, to share real stories from the front line of strata management.We talk about one shocking case where a $12K insurance policy skyrocketed to over $300K, why certain tenancy types are considered high risk, and how WA’s Strata Titles Act reforms can shift costs back onto problem owners or tenants. We also explore what makes a scheme “unmanageable,” the importance of checking strata minutes before you buy, and why community harmony matters for long-term value.If you’re investing in WA property, this episode could save you thousands.Key Topics Covered:✅ Why certain tenancy types can send insurance premiums through the roof✅ How a $12K policy turned into a $300K nightmare for one strata scheme✅ The new WA legislation that allows costs to be shifted back to problem owners or tenants✅ What makes a strata scheme “unmanageable” from a manager’s perspective✅ How strata minutes can affect property valuations—and your exit strategy✅ Why building community matters just as much as managing compliance✅ The role of AI, automation, and offshore teams in the future of strata managementResources & Links:WA Strata Titles Act reformsWebsite: https://rezzi.com.auInstagram: @rezziauYouTube: Rezzi ChannelConnect with MeWebsite: https://rezzi.com.auPodcast Hub: https://rezzi.com.au/podcast/Instagram: @rezziauYouTube: Rezzi ChannelDon’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review—it helps other WA investors discover the insights that protect their portfolios.
August 12, 2025Episode 4532 min
EP45 Real Estate Fatigue Is Real: Burnout, Buyer Stress & Broken Systems in WA
In Episode 45, Peter Fletcher sits down with industry veterans Nikki D’Agostino and Davide Palermo to take the pulse of WA’s real estate industry—and it’s clear that fatigue is setting in across all fronts.Whether it’s burnout from relentless compliance reform, buyer exhaustion, or mental health strain among agents, this episode explores the human cost of a market under pressure. From the effects of COVID-era disruption to the reality of 200-page contracts, the team discusses what’s broken—and what we can do to fix it.
July 22, 2025Episode 4411 min
EP44 Strengthening Trust in Property Transactions – A Call to Action for the Real Estate Industry
In this powerful solo episode, Peter Fletcher takes the mic to sound the alarm on a growing crisis in the Australian property sector: the rise of unlicensed buyer’s agents operating in the shadows of the industry. With the proliferation of social media-driven services and vague “investment advisor” labels, too many consumers are unknowingly placing their trust—and money—in the hands of unqualified operators.Peter outlines a seven-point reform proposal aimed at closing regulatory loopholes, empowering consumers, and supporting licensed professionals. If you’re in real estate sales, buyer advocacy, conveyancing, or regulatory enforcement, this episode is a must-listen.
June 18, 2025Episode 4354 min
EP43 Understanding AML-CTF in WA Real Estate: A Guide for Agents, Buyers & Sellers
This week on the WA Property Q&A, Peter Fletcher welcomes back Ches Rafferty to discuss the significant changes brought about by AML-CTF (Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing) regulations impacting Western Australian real estate agents and conveyancers. Ches clarifies the complexities of these new rules, effective July 1st, 2026, emphasizing the importance of customer due diligence and suspicious matter reporting. He explains the need for real estate professionals to verify the identities of buyers and sellers, outlining the potential consequences of non-compliance – hefty fines reaching millions of dollars. While acknowledging privacy concerns, Ches stresses the crucial role of these regulations in preventing serious crimes like drug trafficking and human exploitation. He also highlights the upcoming release of detailed guidelines from AUSTRAC in January 2026, advising listeners to begin their education and planning now, but to avoid rushing into costly solutions before the guidelines are released.Key Takeaways:AML-CTF regulations require real estate agents and conveyancers to implement comprehensive compliance programs by July 1st, 2026.Customer due diligence, including identity verification and checks against sanctions and politically exposed persons lists, is mandatory.Suspicious matter reports must be filed with AUSTRAC when unusual behavior is detected, even if it's a "mate" involved in the transaction. Non-compliance carries severe penalties, including substantial fines and potential business closure.Detailed AUSTRAC guidelines will be released in January 2026; professionals should begin educating themselves and planning their compliance strategy now.Understanding AML-CTF in WA PropertyWhat is AML-CTF? AML-CTF stands for Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing. It's a federal act expanding regulations to minimize money laundering and terrorism funding in various sectors, including real estate. This impacts real estate agents and conveyancers (but not property managers) from July 1st, 2026.Impact on Real Estate Agents and Conveyancers: All real estate agents and conveyancers must implement an AML-CTF program, conduct customer due diligence (identifying buyers), and file suspicious matter reports (SMRs) with AUSTRAC if buyer behavior seems suspicious. Detailed guidelines from AUSTRAC are expected in January 2026.Customer Due Diligence: This involves verifying the identity of buyers and sellers, checking against money laundering and terrorism lists. While the exact timing isn't fully defined yet, it's likely required upon offer submission. Refusal to comply with identity verification can result in the agent or conveyancer refusing to proceed with the transaction. It's not the agent's responsibility to prevent transactions, but they must still proceed with due diligence and reporting of suspicious activity. "Tipping off" is illegal, thus even if you are suspicious the transaction still proceeds.Verification and Safe Harbor: Verification platforms can help real estate agents and conveyancers meet their obligations. While these platforms can provide evidence of due diligence, they do not provide absolute safe harbor; the business retains ultimate responsibility. Comprehensive record-keeping is crucial. Ongoing due diligence is generally only required for clients with frequent transactions, like professional property buyers.Source of Funds: While not always required, scrutiny of funds increases if the source seems unusual (e.g., a sudden shift from financing to cash). Suspicious activity needs to be reported.Penalties for Non-Compliance: Non-compliance carries significant penalties, including criminal charges, fines up to $6 million for individuals and $24 million for businesses, and daily penalties for failure to enroll. Record-keeping is crucial to demonstrate due diligence and avoid penalties.Educate yourself and your staff on AML-CTF regulations.Start planning your compliance strategy now; don't wait until June 2026.Enroll with AUSTRAC as soon as possible after January 2026.Consider using a reputable compliance platform to assist with due diligence and reporting.Implement robust record-keeping procedures.Develop clear processes for identifying and reporting suspicious activity.Implement an AML-CTF compliance programLinks and Resources: AUSTRAC - Summary of AML/CTF obligations for tranche 2 entitiesScantek - AML/CTF platform expressions of interestScantek - Real estate agents, here’s what you need to know about the upcoming AML/CTF Tranche 2 changesVisit the AUSTRAC website to learn more about AML-CTF compliance requirements. Start researching technology and service providers to assist with your compliance program now, don't wait until the last minute. Begin your preparations today to ensure a smooth transition and avoid the significant penalties associated with non-compliance.
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