The Residential Developer

In this episode of the Residential Developer podcast, host Nathan Battishall peels back the curtain on the often-overlooked personal toll of property development. While industry education typically focuses on strategy and numbers, Nathan argues that the mental, emotional, and relational costs of high-stakes projects are rarely discussed. He candidly addresses the "unspoken" consequences of unchecked stress, sharing how some successful investors lose their marriages or turn to substance abuse to cope with the pressure. The conversation challenges listeners to define a "deeper why" beyond financial gain, warning that wealth is meaningless if it costs you your family or health. Nathan shares his own strategies for maintaining balance, such as implementing strict boundaries between business hours and family time to ensure he remains present as a husband and father. He also emphasizes the importance of physical fitness and quiet time, viewing them not as luxuries but as essential methods to "recharge the battery" for leadership. Ultimately, this episode serves as a reality check, urging developers to design their lives intentionally so they don't find themselves successful in business but bankrupt in their personal lives.Topics: ✅ The Unspoken Mental Toll ✅ Growth Through Pressure ✅ The Cost to Relationships ✅ Substance Abuse & Coping ✅ Work-Life Boundaries ✅ Health as a BatteryConnect with Nathan Battishall: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanbattishall/Website: https://duplexbuildingdesign.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nathan dives into the most crucial skill for success in residential development: mastering feasibility. He stresses that running feasibility isn't about expense, but time investment, and that poorly run feasibility studies are the biggest pressure builder and cause of project failure.Learn why feasibility is both an art and a science and how it encompasses not just the financial numbers, but also buildability, compliance, and factoring in all project time frames (approvals, build, and sales). Nathan strongly advises aspiring developers to become laser-focused specialists in a small, proven area and to continually "flex that feasibility muscle" by testing both successful and unsuccessful sites. By doing the hard reps behind the scenes, you gain the insider knowledge to make calculated risks and secure the best deals.Topics: ✅ Feasibility: Art and Science ✅ Project Failure Point ✅ Avoid Emotional Investing ✅ Become a Laser Specialist ✅ The Feasibility Muscle ✅ Time Frames are KeyConnect with Nathan Battishall: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanbattishall/Website: https://duplexbuildingdesign.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are you constantly crunching numbers on potential duplex sites only to find that the feasibility just doesn't stack up? In this episode, Nathan Battishall reveals why many developers fail before they even start by purchasing "overcapitalised" properties that immediately kill their profit margins. You will learn the art of identifying undercapitalised hidden gems in infill areas, specifically looking for homes in disrepair or properties where a second story unlocks massive value. Nathan breaks down real-world examples where choosing the "ugly" house created instant equity compared to buying the nicer home just three doors down. Discover why buying a property that ticks all the standard boxes might actually be a financial trap and how to spot the true diamonds in the rough. Tune in to master the strategy of knockdown rebuilds and ensure your next project delivers the profit you expect.Topics: ✅ Feasibility and Site Viability ✅ Avoiding Overcapitalized Properties ✅ Identifying Undercapitalized Gems ✅ Demolition Cost Factors ✅ Unlocking Potential Views ✅ Targeting the Downsizer MarketConnect with Nathan Battishall: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanbattishall/Website: https://duplexbuildingdesign.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Residential Developer Podcast, host Nathan Battishall tackles a topic he is passionate about: the critical difference between hiring an independent designer versus a design-build firm. He exposes the common "design-build trap," where a developer is lured in by a low initial price, only for costs to escalate significantly later on. The biggest danger is that the builder's in-house team owns the design copyright, preventing you from getting competitive quotes and locking you into their services. Nathan argues that to maintain control and ensure profitability, you must engage a designer first to create concept plans. This allows you to take those plans to multiple builders, keep them honest, and retain the flexibility to pivot if needed.Topics: ✅ Designer vs. Design-Build Firm ✅ The Copyright & IP Trap ✅ Hidden Costs & Price Variations ✅ The Power of Autonomy & Control ✅ Getting Quotes Before Full Approval ✅ Why You Should Pay Builders to QuoteConnect with Nathan Battishall: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanbattishall/Website: https://duplexbuildingdesign.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Residential Developer Podcast, host Nathan Battishall tackles a challenge that many in the property space are coming unstuck on: the mandatory 7-star thermal rating in New South Wales. Introduced in the NCC 2022, this regulation has changed the game, making the old method of simply placing a project home on a block no longer viable. Nathan explains that achieving this rating is now a non-negotiable part of the approval process. He breaks down the simple climate design principles, like property orientation and glazing, that are now critical for both compliance and thermal comfort. This episode serves as an essential introduction for any developer looking to understand how to meet the 7-star standard without making their project financially unfeasibleTopics: ✅ The New 7-Star Rating Mandate ✅ Why Property Orientation is Critical ✅ Balancing Glazing, Views & Cost ✅ Yield Assessment vs. Solar Compliance ✅ Smart Design Over Expensive Fixes ✅ Working with a Thermal AssessorConnect with Nathan Battishall: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanbattishall/Website: https://duplexbuildingdesign.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Residential Developer Podcast, host Nathan Battishall shares one of his "personal favorite" and often-neglected development strategies: purchasing unregistered land. He explains how this approach allows developers to secure property below market value, often with a very small deposit and no holding costs. This method is a great way to buy time while benefiting from potential capital growth as you wait for the land to be registered. Nathan details how to find sites with untapped potential that the average person misses, such as the ability to build multiple dwellings. Learn the key factors for finding these deals, the importance of expert advice, and the flexible exit strategies that make this a powerful tool for any developer. This strategy can be "liquid gold" for developers who know what to look for.Topics: ✅ The Unregistered Land Strategy✅ Low Deposits & No Holding Costs✅ Capital Growth While You Wait✅ Finding Untapped Potential✅ Navigating Planning & Restrictions✅ Flexible Exit StrategiesConnect with Nathan Battishall: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanbattishall/Website: https://duplexbuildingdesign.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, host Nathan unveils a powerful strategy for profiting from property development without ever starting construction. He explores the tactic of securing a development approval on a site and then selling it to capture the significant value uplift. This method serves as a crucial alternate exit strategy and a fantastic way to generate cash flow, allowing developers to fund other projects or their business operations. Nathan shares a personal story of how he used a call option to turn a small investment into a six-figure sum on a land subdivision deal. However, he also cautions against worthless approvals and stresses that the deal must be treated with the same rigorous due diligence as if you were building it yourself. You'll learn how to structure these deals, identify the perfect buyers like builders or civil contractors, and ensure the numbers work for everyone involved. This is an essential listen for any developer looking to add a clever and highly effective tool to their playbook.Topics: ✅ The Approval Uplift Strategy ✅ Alternate Exit Strategies ✅ Using Property Options ✅ Cash Flow Generation ✅ The Need for Due Diligence ✅ Identifying Target BuyersConnect with Nathan Battishall: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanbattishall/Website: https://duplexbuildingdesign.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, host Nathan Battishall exposes what he calls the biggest lie in residential development: the idea that simply finding the right site will guarantee you make plenty of money. He argues this myth, often fueled by picture-perfect social media posts, hides the true struggles of development and costs aspiring developers millions. Behind the glamorous facade, many projects are actually filled with financing hurdles, design challenges, slow approvals, and unrealistic timelines that drain profitability.To combat this, Nathan provides a practical three-step roadmap to build smarter and more profitable projects. This framework focuses on prioritizing rigorous feasibility studies, building with significant cost and time buffers, and the critical rule of assembling your expert team before you buy a site. Using real-world examples, he contrasts the costly failure of a developer who bought a site unprepared with the record-breaking success of one who followed the process correctly. This episode is a crucial guide for anyone looking to avoid common pitfalls and treat their development projects like a serious business, not a hobby.Topics: ✅ The Biggest Lie Costing Developers Millions ✅ The Hidden Reality Behind Social Media ✅ Why Your Feasibility Must Come First ✅ Building Projects with Time & Cost Buffers ✅ Assembling Your Team Before the Site ✅ Treating Your Project Like a BusinessConnect with Nathan Battishall: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanbattishall/Website: https://duplexbuildingdesign.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Residential Developer Podcast, host Nathan Battishall shares the three essential rules every property developer must follow to build trust and achieve long-term success. Too often, developers gain a reputation for being greedy or unreliable but Nathan explains how integrity, vision, and respect can change the game.You’ll learn why acting with honesty in every decision builds stronger partnerships and a reputation people can rely on. Nathan also reveals why long-term thinking beats short-term wins, and how building a loyal dream team creates opportunities that last. Finally, he unpacks the power of respect in every relationship, from trades and consultants to investors and councils.These three rules are not just theory, they’re practical values that separate the developers who thrive from those who burn out. Whether you’re starting your first project or scaling multiple developments, this episode will help you build credibility, attract the right people, and create sustainable success in property development.Topics: ✅ Integrity in Every Decision✅ Why Developers Fail Without Trust✅ Long-Term Thinking vs. Quick Wins✅ Building Your Dream Team✅ Respecting People & Relationships✅ Creating Longevity in Property DevelopmentConnect with Nathan Battishall: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanbattishall/Website: https://duplexbuildingdesign.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Residential Developer Podcast, host Nathan Battishall explores the biggest floor plan trends shaping property development in 2025 and beyond. From the practicality of downstairs bedrooms with ensuites to the growing demand for butler’s pantries, these design choices are transforming how we live. Nathan also highlights the rise of indoor-outdoor courtyards, separated living spaces that feel more like standalone homes, and the integration of wellness zones such as saunas and cold plunges.Curved walls and finishes are making interiors warmer and more inviting, while multi-purpose rooms are proving invaluable for families and downsizers alike. With pet-friendly design now a key consideration, developers are finding ways to incorporate built-in feeding stations and cosy nooks for furry companions. On top of that, stricter energy efficiency standards and the surge of smart home technology are pushing projects into the future. Whether you’re a developer, investor, or simply curious about what’s next in residential design, this episode delivers practical insights you can’t afford to miss.Topics: ✅ Downstairs Bedrooms & Ensuites✅ Butler’s Pantry Popularity✅ Indoor-Outdoor Courtyards✅ Wellness Spaces in Homes✅ Curves in Modern Design✅ Smart Home TechnologyConnect with Nathan Battishall: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanbattishall/Website: https://duplexbuildingdesign.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Residential Developer Podcast, host Nathan Battishall unpacks the DNA of the perfect development designer. He explains why the right designer can make or break your project and the traits that truly set them apart. Creativity, trend awareness, and strong communication are just the beginning.Nathan also highlights the importance of understanding compliance, construction, and the finer details that keep projects on track and profitable. He shares why working with a team is more powerful than relying on a one-person design firm. Collaboration, humility, and passion for both design and property development all play a huge role.If you’re a property investor, developer, or just curious about what drives successful residential projects, this episode gives you the insights you need.Topics: ✅ The DNA of a Perfect Development Designer✅ Building a Strong Design Team Over a Solo Designer✅ Creativity and Trend Awareness in Modern Projects✅ Communication and Collaboration That Drive Success✅ Compliance, Construction Knowledge, and Attention to Detail✅ Passion and Connections as the Key to Profitable OutcomesConnect with Nathan Battishall: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanbattishall/Website: https://duplexbuildingdesign.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Residential Developer Podcast, host Nathan Battishall unpacks one of the biggest shifts shaping the property market today: the decline of traditional single-home approvals and the rise of infill development. With NSW recording a 30% drop in single-dwelling approvals, Nathan explores why infill options such as duplexes, townhouses, and villas are gaining traction. He highlights the key drivers behind this trend, from escalating construction costs and tighter lending, to the evolving needs of young buyers and downsizing baby boomers.Nathan also shares practical examples of how developers can respond creatively, from rethinking subdivision design to tailoring projects around specific buyer demographics. He stresses the importance of designing with the end user in mind rather than simply maxing out a site for yield. By focusing on affordability, lifestyle, and comfort, developers can align with both market demand and government policy pushing for higher-density housing.Whether you’re an investor, developer, or simply interested in the future of housing, this episode will give you clear insights into why infill development is becoming the dominant opportunity for 2025 and beyond.Topics: ✅ Decline in Single-House Approvals✅ The Rise of Infill Development✅ Construction Costs Reshaping Demand✅ Baby Boomers and the Downsizing Trend✅ Young Buyers Seeking Affordability✅ Designing for Buyers, Not Just YieldConnect with Nathan Battishall:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanbattishall/Website: https://duplexbuildingdesign.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Residential Developer Podcast, Nathan Battishall dives into the mindset shifts that can make or break a property developer. He answers listener questions on staying resilient through construction delays, approvals, and setbacks that inevitably come with projects. Nathan shares how he balances career, family, and development work by focusing on self-leadership, daily routines, and protecting his priorities. He also discusses the importance of building a world-class team, letting go of micromanagement, and choosing where to invest your energy for maximum impact. Listeners will hear practical insights on leading with confidence, even if you feel like a junior compared to your consultants and builders. Finally, Nathan highlights why aiming for excellence is the key to sustainable success in development.Topics: ✅ Resilience through project delays and setbacks✅ Balancing career, family, and development work✅ Daily routines to manage stress and energy✅ Building and trusting a world-class team✅ Leading with confidence, even as a junior✅ Excellence vs. perfection in property developmentConnect with Nathan:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanbattishall/Website: https://duplexbuildingdesign.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Residential Developer Podcast, Nathan unpacks NSW’s new pattern design books and what they mean for duplex and semi-detached projects. With a fast-track CDC approval pathway, eligible developments on 12m frontages and 450m² lots can now be approved in as little as ten days.Nathan compares the two design options, Semi 01 and Semi 02, covering their key differences in size, flexibility, and livability ratings. He also explains the strict compliance rules, facade limitations, and site constraints developers must watch out for.From subdivision opportunities to affordable housing outcomes, Nathan highlights both the opportunities and risks of this major planning shift.Topics: ✅ Fast-Track CDC Approvals✅ Minimum Lot & Size Rules✅ Semi 01 vs Semi 02✅ Flexibility & Adaptations✅ Subdivision Options✅ Key Risks & CaveatsConnect with Nathan Battishall:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanbattishall/Website: www.duplexbuildingdesign.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Residential Developer Podcast, host Nathan Battishall unpacks the long-awaited NSW Pattern Book and what it means for property developers across the state.With eight architect-designed templates now available for as little as $1 until January 2026, the Pattern Book promises a fast-track CDC approval pathway for eligible low and mid-rise (LMR) projects. Nathan breaks down how the system works, the pros and cons, and the key criteria your site must meet to take advantage of this 10-day approval process.You’ll learn how to navigate site constraints like slope, overlays, and trees, as well as what documentation is still required despite the streamlined pathway. Nathan also explores the potential impact on housing supply, the most exciting design opportunities (including row homes), and why this isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Whether you’re an investor, developer, or industry professional, this episode will help you understand how to leverage the NSW Pattern Book to save time, reduce costs, and unlock new project potential.Topics: ✅ Fast-Track Approvals with the NSW Pattern Book✅ $1 Pattern Book Pricing Window✅ Pattern Book Pros & Cons✅ Site Constraints to Watch✅ The 8 NSW Pattern Designs✅ Unlocking New Development SitesConnect with Nathan Battishall:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanbattishall/Website: www.duplexbuildingdesign.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Want your property to build wealth for decades?In this episode, Nathan Battishall unveils the power of long-term property holds in high-capital-growth areas. He explains why holding strategically selected properties is key to sustained wealth, even if it means selling other projects to generate immediate capital. Nathan shares compelling real-world examples of how early research and strategic land banking have transformed modest investments into substantial fortunes over time.Learn how to become a "student of the space" and discover opportunities that others miss, setting yourself up for long-term financial success beyond individual developments.Topics:✅ The Power of Long-Term Property Holds✅ Identifying High-Capital-Growth Areas✅ Key Drivers of Property Appreciation✅ Leveraging Research and Technology✅ Real-World Examples of Wealth Creation✅ The Strategy of Land BankingConnect with Nathan:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanbattishall/Website: https://duplexbuildingdesign.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Thinking about moving into the luxury property market?In this episode, Nathan Battishall discusses the exciting world of high-end, high-spec projects. You'll hear why high-end projects allow for more emotional connection in design, moving beyond purely numerical decisions to create truly exceptional spaces, and why discerning high-end buyers are astute, recognising quality and thoughtful design from the moment they step into a property.Nathan provides practical advice on securing off-market sites, the importance of passive design, and choosing reputable builders who understand the nuances of luxury construction. Ultimately, he illustrates how these projects can yield substantial financial returns while offering immense satisfaction in creating unique, dream-like homes.Topics:✅ Why Pursue High-End Projects✅ Balancing Risk and Reward in Luxury Development✅ Fundamental Principles for Any Project Size✅ Bringing Emotion into Property Design✅ Meeting the Expectations of Discerning Buyers✅ Smart Site Acquisition & Builder Selection✅ Maximising Profit and Personal SatisfactionConnect with Nathan:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanbattishall/Website: https://duplexbuildingdesign.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dreaming of financial freedom through your home?In this episode, Nathan Battishall discusses the powerful strategy of developing your principal place of residence. He explains why everyday Australians are finding success by unlocking hidden value in their own properties, whether it's through adding new dwellings or smart subdivisions.Nathan shares how a "step back to step forward" approach can lead to immense financial gain, using real-life examples of families becoming mortgage-free years ahead of schedule. You'll discover the importance of having a clear two, five, or ten-year plan, and how to stay focused on your goals without getting caught up in the "keeping up with the Joneses" trap.Learn to leverage your existing assets and transform your home into a powerful wealth-generating tool.Topics: ✅ Why Develop Your Own Home ✅ "Step Back to Step Forward" Strategy✅ Real-Life Success Stories✅ Planning for Long-Term Financial Gain✅ Overcoming the "Keeping Up with the Joneses" Mentality✅ Leveraging Your Principal Place of ResidenceConnect with Nathan:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanbattishall/Website: https://duplexbuildingdesign.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Facing roadblocks in your property journey?In this episode, Nathan Battishall explains why becoming a problem solver is the ultimate skill for success. He explains why challenges are a part of the game, no matter how much due diligence you conduct, and why a strong mindset is your secret weapon against stress and anxiety when things go wrong. Nathan shares practical strategies, including leveraging your team and even AI tools, to find solutions instead of getting bogged down.You'll discover how to adapt when plans go awry, using real-life examples from the field. Understand your own temperament under pressure, so you can build a team that truly supports you. Instead of complaining about red tape, learn how to become one of the 1% who pushes ahead, no matter the difficulty.Topics:✅ Why Problems are Inevitable✅ The Power of a Solution-Focused Mindset✅ Using AI to Solve Problems✅ Real-World Problem-Solving Examples✅ Understanding Your Temperament Under Pressure✅ Becoming a "Solution Bringer"Connect with Nathan:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanbattishall/Website: https://duplexbuildingdesign.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is finger-pointing hindering your property development projects?In this episode of the "Mindset Matters" series, Nathan Battishall champions the crucial concept of owning the outcome. He explains why taking full responsibility for your projects, rather than a culture of blame, fosters real success.Nathan shares how leading with a solution-focused approach can transform challenges into opportunities for growth. This approach not only makes projects more profitable but also cultivates a far healthier work environment. It's about personal accountability leading to professional triumph.Realise the power of building loyal, long-term relationships with your team by fostering trust and collective problem-solving.Topics: ✅ Own Your Project Outcome✅ Why Blame Kills Property Projects✅ Leadership vs. Finger-Pointing✅ Being a Solution-Bringer✅ Building Loyal, Long-Term Teams✅ Learning from Project ChallengesConnect with Nathan:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanbattishall/Website: https://duplexbuildingdesign.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.