Rewarding Property Decisions with Jarrod McCabe of Wakelin Property Advisory

Victoria’s rental landscape is shifting with a new suite of reforms to the Residential Tenancies Act, effective from 25 November 2025. These updates aim to raise standards and address poor practices, urging investors to focus on proactive compliance to avoid fines, disputes, or challenges in a competitive leasing market.​ In this week's episode, Jarrod is joined by Wakelin Property Advisor Jordan Telfer to break down the key mandates and share practical strategies for staying competitive as renter protections intensify.​ The 2021 baseline for rentals and common retrofits like efficient heating systems Key energy upgrade rules for hot water, cooling, insulation, and draughtproofing, plus exemptions for challenging properties The end of no-reason evictions, highlighting renter screening and manager partnerships The rental bidding ban and strategies for setting competitive initial rents without overbidding Longer 90-day notice periods for increases and vacating, with case-by-case planning for sales timing Pre-advertising minimum standards and defending rent increases through comparables and documentation We enjoy providing you with free insights into the Melbourne property market and property investment more broadly. Thank you for listening.  If you like what you hear, subscribe, like, rate or follow us and tell your friends and family. Investing in property makes sense.  Investing in the right property takes knowledge. To learn more visit www.wakelin.com.au  |  Instagram  |  Facebook  | LinkedIn  |  YouTube  |  Email  

Melbourne's spring property market is heating up, with first-home buyers returning thanks to federal incentives slashing deposits to 5%.   While inner-suburb houses stay out of reach for many, apartments are gaining traction as an accessible entry point – but only if you focus on the right ones for long-term growth.   In this week's episode, Jarrod explains why notional land value – your proportional share of the site's underlying land – separates thriving apartments from stagnant ones, drawing from Wakelin's buyer advisory experience.   As development intensifies and supply tightens, understanding this unlocks apartments that capital growth: The power of notional land in driving appreciation, versus the pitfalls of high-rises with diluted shares Step-by-step guide to calculating your land entitlement and its proportion of the purchase price Top apartment types: Boutique older blocks like Art Deco and 1950s-70s builds on under-capitalised sites Melbourne's value hotspots in eastern and south-eastern suburbs like Boroondara and Stonnington Developer trends targeting these blocks for redevelopment, and hurdles like owner consensus A case study of four apartments sold as a site for 125% uplift, from $1M units to $9M total We enjoy providing you with free insights into the Melbourne property market and property investment more broadly. Thank you for listening.  If you like what you hear, subscribe, like, rate or follow us and tell your friends and family. Investing in property makes sense.  Investing in the right property takes knowledge. To learn more visit www.wakelin.com.au  |  Instagram  |  Facebook  | LinkedIn  |  YouTube  |  Email

Selling property from a deceased estate stirs profound emotions and risks disputes among family members. Yet a structured approach can maximise value, provide fair closure, and honour the deceased's legacy. In this episode Jarrod discusses: The key differences between executors and beneficiaries, and why early role clarification reduces tension Defining sale goals, from joint ownership to buyouts, with tips on independent valuations Balancing legal timelines like probate and capital gains tax (CGT) exemptions with market conditions for optimal timing Tailoring property presentation to buyer profiles without overspending estate funds Choosing experienced agents and seeking vendor advocacy support to ease the executor's burden A real case study of resolving a sibling dispute through transparent auction processes We enjoy providing you with free insights into the Melbourne property market and property investment more broadly. Thank you for listening.  If you like what you hear, subscribe, like, rate or follow us and tell your friends and family. Investing in property makes sense.  Investing in the right property takes knowledge. To learn more visit www.wakelin.com.au  |  Instagram  |  Facebook  | LinkedIn  |  YouTube  |  Email

With Spring auctions numbers ramping up and Melbourne's property demand set to intensify, mastering the powerplays between bidders, vendors, and agents is crucial – but how do you adapt to win in this unpredictable arena? In this episode Jarrod discusses: The auctioneer/agent's tools: setting quotes, bids, and vendor insertions to shape the process Vendors as ultimate deciders: timing the reserve and using pass-ins strategically for better deals Bidders' agility: positioning, increment choices, and observing tells to outmanoeuvre rivals Post-auction tactics: walking away credibly to build leverage in negotiations A real case study where disciplined strategy turned a pass-in into a winning purchase We enjoy providing you with free insights into the Melbourne property market and property investment more broadly. Thank you for listening.  If you like what you hear, subscribe, like, rate or follow us and tell your friends and family. Investing in property makes sense.  Investing in the right property takes knowledge. To learn more visit www.wakelin.com.au  |  Instagram  |  Facebook  | LinkedIn  |  YouTube  |  Email

First-time buyers are driving demand for two-bedroom apartments this Spring, but costly mistakes in the property market can set newcomers back years – so how do you avoid them and build lasting wealth? In this episode Jarrod discusses: Not waiting for finance: start educating yourself early on priorities, locations, and property types Using government grants wisely without letting them steer you toward poor investments Dropping preconceived ideas about property types to align with your actual lifestyle and goals Focusing on potential rather than perfection, prioritising unchangeable factors like location Understanding buying processes, from auctions to private sales, and assembling expert help The critical need for thorough due diligence, including inspections and independent valuations We enjoy providing you with free insights into the Melbourne property market and property investment more broadly. Thank you for listening.  If you like what you hear, subscribe, like, rate or follow us and tell your friends and family. Investing in property makes sense.  Investing in the right property takes knowledge. To learn more visit www.wakelin.com.au  |  Instagram  |  Facebook  | LinkedIn  |  YouTube  |  Email

With remote property investment gaining traction, savvy investors are buying interstate or in other cities to diversify and capture growth in undervalued markets like Melbourne's current landscape. But what are the keys to success? In this episode Jarrod discusses: Why go remote: for diversification, reduced risks, tax benefits, and opportunities in markets at different cycles Where to invest: capital cities with strong fundamentals like jobs, education, population growth, and infrastructure When to enter: based on your financial readiness and signals from temporarily slowed markets poised for recovery What to buy: properties focused on capital growth, with high land value, scarcity, and broad appeal How to proceed: adapting to state-specific rules on auctions, disclosures, and processes with local expertise We enjoy providing you with free insights into the Melbourne property market and property investment more broadly. Thank you for listening.  If you like what you hear, subscribe, like, rate or follow us and tell your friends and family. Investing in property makes sense.  Investing in the right property takes knowledge. To learn more visit www.wakelin.com.au  |  Instagram  |  Facebook  | LinkedIn  |  YouTube  |  Email

For the first time in Jarrod’s career, Melbourne’s property investment market is being led by interstate buyers – a shift revealed in Wakelin’s 2025 Spring Property Report that could influence the city’s next growth cycle.    With interstate enquiries climbing to 57% from 17% in 2022 and local interest falling to 39%, the trend signals building momentum and new opportunities – but what will it mean for the recovery ahead?   In the Spring Property Report, Jarrod explores the findings and their implications.  Early drivers of Melbourne’s recovery: Interstate buyers now make up 57% of all enquiries, while Victoria’s has fallen to 39%. Why out-of-state investors see opportunity: Many have enjoyed 68–76% price growth in their home markets since the pandemic, and are now shifting capital into Melbourne, where prices have lagged and upside potential is high ‘Interstater’ trade-offs: Victoria's land taxes viewed as a cost worth absorbing for long-term capital gains Auction trends: Clearance rates reaching 74.8% in July 2025 with solid volumes, indicating growing buyer confidence Spring outlook: Interest rate cuts, strong buyer preparation, and early interstate positioning creating favourable conditions for strategic purchases before the market tightens further We enjoy providing you with free insights into the Melbourne property market and property investment more broadly. Thank you for listening.  If you like what you hear, subscribe, like, rate or follow us and tell your friends and family. Investing in property makes sense.  Investing in the right property takes knowledge. To learn more visit www.wakelin.com.au  |  Instagram  |  Facebook  | LinkedIn  |  YouTube  |  Email

It’s a story every seller hopes for – a trusted long-term renter eager to buy the property as soon as it hits the market. But is the ‘obvious sale’ always the best outcome? In this episode, Jarrod reveals a behind-the-scenes look at a St Kilda home sale where rigorous planning and dual-strategy paid off. You’ll hear: Why skipping a full campaign can put your result at risk How running a parallel plan with disciplined contingencies preserves opportunity Managing upgrades, trades, and tenant transitions for a seamless launch What to do when auction day disappoints – and how to unlock multiple offers after passing in We enjoy providing you with free insights into the Melbourne property market and property investment more broadly. Thank you for listening.  If you like what you hear, subscribe, like, rate or follow us and tell your friends and family. Investing in property makes sense.  Investing in the right property takes knowledge. To learn more visit www.wakelin.com.au  |  Instagram  |  Facebook  | LinkedIn  |  YouTube  |  Email

Momentum is building in Melbourne’s property market – and with it, intensified focus and queries from buyers and sellers alike.   In this week’s episode, Wakelin Advisors Jordan Telfer and Brenton Potter dive into the real issues that matter – answering seven of the most practical and pressing questions facing investors right now.   In this episode: Key tips for the final inspection before settlement Why choosing a property that’s 'typical for the area' matters Where you’ll find Melbourne’s best value villa units Prioritising marketing vs. styling when selling How to assess the risks of buying next to a vacant block Dealing with unconventional layouts – when to walk away or negotiate Building & pest reports: how to separate serious issues from minor defects   We enjoy providing you with free insights into the Melbourne property market and property investment more broadly. Thank you for listening.  If you like what you hear, subscribe, like, rate or follow us and tell your friends and family. Investing in property makes sense.  Investing in the right property takes knowledge. To learn more visit www.wakelin.com.au  |  Instagram  |  Facebook  | LinkedIn  |  YouTube  |  Email  

For many, the property journey is about climbing the ladder. But what happens when it’s time to take a step down? Downsizing is a major transition that comes with its own set of challenges and opportunities.   In this episode, Jarrod explores: Why Melburnians downsize: managing space, lifestyle changes, and releasing equity The pros and cons of houses, villa units, apartments, and townhouses for downsizers What to look for: single-level living, low maintenance, and good storage How to plan your move and avoid common pitfalls Real case study: a seamless downsize with lifestyle and financial rewards   We enjoy providing you with free insights into the Melbourne property market and property investment more broadly. Thank you for listening.  If you like what you hear, subscribe, like, rate or follow us and tell your friends and family. Investing in property makes sense.  Investing in the right property takes knowledge. To learn more visit www.wakelin.com.au  |  Instagram  |  Facebook  | LinkedIn  |  YouTube  |  Email

Patience pays off in property – and this week’s episode proves it.    In this episode, Jarrod is joined by Wakelin’s Manager of Property Advisory, Brenton Potter to discuss: How a Sydney investor navigated Melbourne’s market  The value of walking away when the numbers don’t stack up Why methodical due diligence pays off Negotiation tactics that led to a successful outcome Key lessons for investors seeking long-term growth   Tune in to discover how patience and strategy can set you up for long-term property success.   We enjoy providing you with free insights into the Melbourne property market and property investment more broadly. Thank you for listening.  If you like what you hear, subscribe, like, rate or follow us and tell your friends and family. Investing in property makes sense.  Investing in the right property takes knowledge. To learn more visit www.wakelin.com.au  |  Instagram  |  Facebook  | LinkedIn  |  YouTube  |  Email    

Winter is coming, but Melbourne’s market signals are burning bright.  In this episode, Jarrod covers: Why winter is a window for smart buyers and sellers The five signals revealing hidden demand How to position yourself before the spring rush A real-life example of success through preparation Tune in to learn how to turn the quieter months into your property advantage. We enjoy providing you with free insights into the Melbourne property market and property investment more broadly. Thank you for listening.  If you like what you hear, subscribe, like, rate or follow us and tell your friends and family. Investing in property makes sense.  Investing in the right property takes knowledge. To learn more visit www.wakelin.com.au  |  Instagram  |  Facebook  | LinkedIn  |  YouTube  |  Email  

Jarrod shines a light on Melbourne’s villa units – a property type quietly gaining traction for its unique blend of affordability, scarcity, and broad appeal. In this episode: Why villa units offer strong land value and real scarcity How they appeal to first home buyers, investors, and downsizers alike Key features to look for: location, floor plan, parking, and outdoor space How blue-chip suburbs offer affordable villa unit opportunities A real case study: capital growth and lifestyle gains from a smart villa unit purchase We enjoy providing you with free insights into the Melbourne property market and property investment more broadly. Thank you for listening.  If you like what you hear, subscribe, like, rate or follow us and tell your friends and family. Investing in property makes sense.  Investing in the right property takes knowledge. To learn more visit www.wakelin.com.au  |  Instagram  |  Facebook  | LinkedIn  |  YouTube  |  Email  

Melbourne’s property market is shifting, and first home buyers are in the driver’s seat. In this episode, Jarrod explores: The new 5% deposit guarantee and higher price caps Why older, boutique apartments in blue-chip suburbs are now within reach Gen Z’s focus on ownership and lifestyle Why more investor sales mean more choice for buyers On-the-ground stories of robust competition for the best apartments Tune in to find out how to seize this unique opportunity in Melbourne’s evolving market.   We enjoy providing you with free insights into the Melbourne property market and property investment more broadly. Thank you for listening.  If you like what you hear, subscribe, like, rate or follow us and tell your friends and family. Investing in property makes sense.  Investing in the right property takes knowledge. To learn more visit www.wakelin.com.au  |  Instagram  |  Facebook  | LinkedIn  |  YouTube  |  Email  

Melbourne’s property market is at a turning point, with affordability concerns, federal election promises, and shifting interest rate expectations all in play.  But what’s really happening on the ground – and what does it mean for investors? In this episode, Jarrod explores: How both major parties’ housing policies could unintentionally drive prices higher, despite aiming to help first home buyers Why the Reserve Bank’s new dovish stance is fuelling buyer optimism and setting the stage for multiple rate cuts in 2025 Real-world auction stories showing a dramatic uptick in competition and confidence, from one-bedroom apartments to family homes The ‘flow-on effect’ as buyers recalibrate and competition intensifies across all market segments Why Melbourne’s comparative affordability is attracting renewed interest from both local and interstate investors   We enjoy providing you with free insights into the Melbourne property market and property investment more broadly. Thank you for listening.  If you like what you hear, subscribe, like, rate or follow us and tell your friends and family. Investing in property makes sense.  Investing in the right property takes knowledge. To learn more visit www.wakelin.com.au  |  Instagram  |  Facebook  | LinkedIn  |  YouTube  |  Email

Are property managers merely go-betweens, or can they significantly boost your investment property returns? We challenge the common misconception that property management is just a simple intermediary role. In this week's episode, Jarrod hands over the reins to Wakelin Property Advisor, Jordan Telfer. Jordan speaks to Francesca Gulluni, an experienced Melbourne property manager from Nelson Alexander, who shares invaluable insights on: The art of negotiating rent increases while maintaining renter satisfaction Strategic lease timing to maximise returns and minimise vacancies Turning lease breaks into opportunities for increased rental income How preventative maintenance can save you thousands in the long run  We enjoy providing you with free insights into the Melbourne property market and property investment more broadly. Thank you for listening.  If you like what you hear, subscribe, like, rate or follow us and tell your friends and family. Investing in property makes sense.  Investing in the right property takes knowledge. To learn more visit www.wakelin.com.au  |  Instagram  |  Facebook  | LinkedIn  |  YouTube  |  Email

Compromise is inevitable when buying property, but how do you decide what’s worth sacrificing? In this episode, Jarrod McCabe delves into the art of making smart trade-offs to secure a property that aligns with your goals. Key topics include: The non-negotiables: location, orientation, and building type How modifiable aspects like condition and layout can offer opportunities for value-adding improvements Why compromising wisely can lead to better long-term outcomes than chasing perfection   We enjoy providing you with free insights into the Melbourne property market and property investment more broadly. Thank you for listening.  If you like what you hear, subscribe, like, rate or follow us and tell your friends and family. Investing in property makes sense.  Investing in the right property takes knowledge. To learn more visit www.wakelin.com.au  |  Instagram  |  Facebook  | LinkedIn  |  YouTube  |  Email  

The question of whether to time your property market entry perfectly or focus on time in the market is resurfacing as Melbourne prepares for its next growth phase. But which approach actually delivers superior results for serious investors?   In this episode Jarrod discusses: The fundamental differences between ‘timing the market’ and ‘time in the market’ philosophies Why waiting for perfect market conditions often costs investors hundreds of thousands When timing strategies actually work better for property owners (selling vs. buying) The mathematics of compound growth and how it accelerates wealth creation A revealing case study showing a $300,000 opportunity cost from delaying investment Why the ‘what’ of property selection matters more than the ‘when’ of market entry   Join Jarrod as he unpacks these competing investment approaches and provides practical guidance for navigating Melbourne's evolving property landscape with confidence.   We enjoy providing you with free insights into the Melbourne property market and property investment more broadly. Thank you for listening.  If you like what you hear, subscribe, like, rate or follow us and tell your friends and family. Investing in property makes sense.  Investing in the right property takes knowledge. To learn more visit www.wakelin.com.au  |  Instagram  |  Facebook  | LinkedIn  |  YouTube  |  Email  

The way Melbourne real estate is marketed has changed dramatically. Social media isn’t just an add-on anymore – it’s becoming a key driver of buyer engagement and direct sales. Luke Saville from The Agency, has built a strong presence in Melbourne’s inner east apartment market with his creative use of TikTok and Instagram to market his clients' properties. This rapid success has taken him by surprise and delighted his clients. In this episode of The Rewarding Property Decisions Podcast, Jarrod sits down with Luke to discuss: Why social media is becoming a dominant force in real estate marketing How platforms like TikTok and Instagram are reaching new buyers Whether traditional marketing spend is still necessary in 2025 The types of properties benefiting most from social-first campaigns The future of real estate advertising – what’s next? Join us as we unpack the evolving landscape of property marketing and what it means for buyers and sellers moving forward.

Jarrod unpacks the Wakelin 2025 Property Report, delving into the key data, developments and trends to provide you with actionable advice to apply to your property investment decisions for 2025 and beyond. Will investor sentiment shift in 2025? Why Melbourne’s market has underperformed – and what history tells us happens next Why Melbourne has lagged while other capitals surged What the numbers don’t tell you – how misleading market data could be masking true value Is now the right time to invest, or should you wait? What does the federal election mean for property buyers and sellers? Price outlook – Why 2025 is a year of transition Download the full report at wakelin.com.au   We enjoy providing you with free insights into the Melbourne property market and property investment more broadly. Thank you for listening.  If you like what you hear, subscribe, like, rate or follow us and tell your friends and family. Investing in property makes sense.  Investing in the right property takes knowledge. To learn more visit www.wakelin.com.au  |  Instagram  |  Facebook  | LinkedIn  |  YouTube  |  Email