The PROPERTY DOCTORS, Sydney Australia Novak Properties

40 Episodes
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By: Mark Novak, Lisa Novak, Billy Drury, Michael Burgio, Cleo Whithear, Stankovic, Stevan Bubalo, Bidhan Shrestha, Thomas Sims, Jonathan Vescio, Harry Lorcas, Josh Wapshott and guests

NOVAK PROPERTIES CREW and PROPERTY LEGENDS in the industry share their experiences and knowledge.  Hacks and tips to make you a smarter property GURU :) Learn with exclusive content, advice, insider info and HOT real estate industry PRO SECRETS.  For sale, for lease, residential, commercial, buying off the plan, finance, mortgages, interest rates, first home buyer, investments - all topics covered.  The untold real estate info you've been waiting for.

EP. 1610 Pest Control Showdown: Tenant or Landlord?
#1610
Last Wednesday at 10:00 PM

Termites, ants, fleas & even overgrown gardens 🐜🌿

Who’s responsible — tenant or landlord?

✔️ Tenants should report issues early
✔️ Landlords should organise regular inspections (it’s tax deductible!)
✔️ Annual pest checks can save thousands
✔️ Pet owners must professionally flea treat at end of lease

Prevention = clean bins, tidy gardens & good maintenance.

Because once the cockroaches move in… it’s war 😅

#PropertyTips #LandlordLife #TenantTips #PestControl #PropertyManagement


EP. 1609 Selling Serotonin, The Fake Hit
#1609
Last Tuesday at 10:00 PM

💰 “I’ve got the best partners in business… the Australian Government & the banks.” – Harry Triguboff

Property is powerful — but so are the costs.

Every time you sell and buy, you’re paying:
▪️ Agent fees (on the full value, not just your equity)
▪️ Stamp duty (again… full value)
▪️ Then potentially capital gains tax

If you’ve only got 20% equity, those transaction costs can eat up a HUGE chunk of your gains. Do that 2–3 times over 10 years? That’s a fortune gone in fees alone. 😳

This is why strategy matters. Holding, compounding growth, and leverag...


NOVAK NEWS - The Dirty Secret Of Commercial Property: Yield Isn't Found.... Its Built
Last Monday at 11:00 PM

Brookvale isn’t just another industrial hub — it’s tightly held, high demand, and always growing.

We’ve seen yields jump from 2.5% to 8.5% with smart renovations and leasing strategies. One cosmetic upgrade turned into a $2–3M uplift in value.

Even small plays work. Storage units from $30K + GST renting at 10% yield = passive income in 10 years.

Commercial isn’t about square metres — it’s about yield.

Thinking outside the resi box? Let’s talk. 💼📈

#CommercialProperty #Brookvale #PropertyInvesting #PassiveIncome #SmartMoney


EP. 1608 - PRICE GUIDE OR PRICE LIES
#1608
Last Monday at 11:00 PM

Price guide or price lies? 👀

We can’t control what a property sells for — at auction or private treaty. The market decides.

But price guides? They must reflect real buyer feedback. And if that feedback shifts, the guide should shift too.

Underquoting isn’t clever marketing. It’s a short-term tactic dressed up as strategy. And it breaks trust — and hearts.

Trust > hype. Always.

#RealEstateTalk #PriceGuide #PropertyMarket #Auction #TrustMatters


EP. 1607 AGENT CAN’T SELL MY HOME… WHY?
#1607
Last Sunday at 11:00 PM

Selling isn’t just about listing a property. It’s emotional — especially when it’s due to the “3 D’s”: death, divorce or disputes.

If a property isn’t selling, it always comes down to the 3 P’s:

🏷 Price – Are you meeting the market?
🏡 Product – Is the property presented at its best?
📣 Promotion – Are you leaving no stone unturned?

And in commercial? Add a 4th P: Patience.

Get the strategy right. Listen to the market. Adjust when needed.

That’s how properties sell.

...


EP. 1606 Less Landlords, Fewer Homes, Higher Rents
#1606
02/18/2026

78 negative legislative changes towards landlords in one career.

More rental properties = more supply = rents stabilise. It’s basic maths.

Right now? Record low rental stock. Tenants struggling. Landlords exiting.

If we want rents to ease, we need incentives — not more pressure.

This is a sensitive topic, but it’s one we need to talk about.

#PropertyMarket #RentalCrisis #Landlords #Tenants #RealEstate


EP. 1605 300K To Build Now $700K!
#1605
02/17/2026

Build costs are skyrocketing. Tight labour market. Materials up. Developers squeezed from every angle.

But here’s the silver lining 👇

If you can’t replicate a property at today’s construction prices, that sets a floor under property values.

We’re not talking land. Not profit.
Just build costs — around $700k+ before land.

To replace a 1–3 bedroom apartment today? You’re looking at $1.2m–$1.3m.

If you already own property… you’re holding a serious asset.

Property isn’t just something you want.
It’s something you need.<...


NOVAK NEWS - THE RENTAL CRISIS NO ONE IS TALKING ABOUT
02/16/2026

Interest rates. Rising costs. Government changes. It’s been tough.

But here’s the truth 👇

🏡 Long term? Property still wins for many.
📈 Stocks may outperform at times — but nothing replaces having a place to call home.
💡 If you’re renting and want to buy: start small. Don’t be picky. Grow from 1 bed ➡️ 2 bed ➡️ 3 bed.

Everything’s gone up — groceries, bills, life in general. Housing is the big one.

If you need guidance navigating it all, we’re here to help.

#Property #HomeOwnership #Investing #CostOfLiving #RealEstateAdvice


EP. 1604 - CO AGENTS! IS IT DOUBLE THE TROUBLE?
02/16/2026

One agent… or two? 🤔

Co-agency can work — but only when there’s:
✔️ Total transparency
✔️ Clear control of marketing
✔️ Strong communication
✔️ Trust

Without that? It can get messy. Mixed messages. Confused buyers. Blurred accountability.

At the end of the day, the real question is:

If you were selling your property…
Would you want two agents?
Or one exceptional agent who fully backs themselves?

It’s always about acting in the vendor’s best interest.

#RealEstate #PropertyAdvice #VendorTips #SellingProperty #AgentLife


EP. 1602 SHOULD I BUY COMMERCIAL PROPERTY OFF THE PLAN - DOES IT MATTER?
#1602
02/15/2026

Buying commercial off the plan? ⚠️

Not all plans are equal.

✔️ Marketing plans ≠ stamped council-approved plans
✔️ Ceiling heights can vary lot to lot
✔️ Layouts & positioning can change
✔️ Fire safety & compliance updates can impact design

The key? Do your due diligence.
Review the approved construction plans — not just the brochure.

Yes, buy off the plan… but be proactive. It can significantly increase value and tenant appeal.

#CommercialProperty #OffThePlan #PropertyTips #DueDiligence


TALE OF THE SALE - UNIT 316/15 HOWARD AVENUE 'LIGHTHOUSE MERITON' DEE WHY
02/15/2026

Only 13 days on market ⚡

• 20+ groups through the first Saturday
• Strong midweek numbers
• Consistent buyer demand throughout

There’s now a waitlist of buyers wanting into the Meriton lifestyle in DY — especially 3 bed (and some 2 bed) apartments.

If you’re thinking of selling, upsizing, or investing — now’s the time.

DM Alex or us directly 📲

#DY #Meriton #JustSold #PropertyUpdate #NorthernBeaches


EP. 1603 | FIRST HOME BUYER - THE DEPOSIT SAVING JOURNEY
#1603
02/15/2026

First home buyers — saving a deposit isn’t easy.

Harry Larkos made it happen 💪

✔️ 80% saved
✔️ 20% spent
✔️ Consistency & discipline
✔️ Took advantage of family support

While prices in DY were growing 8–10%, he focused on securing something early rather than waiting.

Simple strategy. Serious discipline. Big reward.

Thinking about your first home? Start with a plan.

#FirstHomeBuyer #PropertyJourney #DY #NorthernBeaches #SavingGoals


EP. 1601 French polisher magic: shine old/new timber, save $1000s!
#1601
02/12/2026

Got gouges in your timber floors? ✨

A skilled French polisher can restore high-end floors, benchtops, walls—even antique furniture—so beautifully it looks like part of the original finish.

Tip: Ask antique furniture shops for trusted recommendations 👌

Or reach out to us—we’re happy to share our go-to experts!

#HomeTips #FrenchPolisher #HomeCare #PropertyMaintenance


EP. 1600 CAPITAL GAINS TAX CHANGES 📑💰
#1600
02/11/2026

🚧 Development hurdles are piling up! More taxes = fewer projects. From capital gains tax shake-ups to site stacking challenges, it’s clear policymakers aren’t walking the ground. What happens next? 👀

#PropertyDevelopment #CapitalGainsTax #RealEstateAustralia #HousingCrisis #NorthernBeaches


NOVAK NEWS - THE EXPERIENCE OF ADDING A SECOND STOREY TO YOUR HOME
02/09/2026

Thinking of adding a second storey? 🏠
✅ Strong foundations
✅ Strategic load-bearing design
✅ Trusted builder = peace of mind

💡 Pro tip: Add 10% to your budget and timeline — rainy days and surprises happen!
🎯 Build smart. Plan ahead. Maximize your space and value.

#HomeRenovation #SecondStorey #NorthernBeachesBuilders #PropertyTips #BuildBetter #DYNSW


EP. 1599 A TALE OF A SALE: HOW A $1,000,000 WAS MANUFACTURED
#1599
02/09/2026

Bought for $725K in 2010. Sold for nearly $2.5M 💰🤯
How? A clever floor plan hack 🛠️

➡️ Converted a 2-bed into a 3-bed by extending the sunroom
➡️ Added an ensuite
➡️ Used existing space — no impact on neighbors

🏡 In tightly controlled Queenscliff, that extra bedroom meant a MILLION DOLLAR uplift!
Tax-free profit. Smart design. Real estate love story. ❤️
#PropertyTransformation #RealEstateWin #QueenscliffProperty #HomeRenovation #FloorPlanHack #SmartInvesting


EP. 1597: THE OFF-THE-PLAN SCREAMER! $90K turned into $390K in just 18 months.
#1597
02/08/2026

From zero deposit to $1,000/week in rent 🙌💰 That’s the power of capital growth + smart off-the-plan investing!
Next opportunity just down the road — same developer, same potential 🔑
📍Next to Australia’s BIGGEST Bunnings
Pre-register now!
#PropertyInvestment #OffThePlan #WealthBuilding #RealEstateAustralia #NorthernBeaches


EP. 1598 - WHEN WILL A 1 BEDROOM APARTMENT HIT $2,000,000??
#1598
02/08/2026

Rising prices, tough lending, and building costs aren't slowing things down 🧱💸
Want to get ahead? Rentvesting might be the key 🔑
⏳ Time in the market beats timing the market — every time.
#PropertyTips #Rentvesting #RealEstateAustralia #WealthMindset #LongTermStrategy


EP.1596 Managing Rent Increases: A Practical Guide for Tenants
#1596
02/04/2026

Landlords: Navigating rent increases?
✅ It's all in the software—automated reminders, third-party updates, and delivery tracking.
💡 One annual increase? It might feel like a sting. Two smaller ones may ease the impact.
📈 Justify the rise: market value, rising costs, and your property’s features.
💬 Tip for tenants: Talk to your property manager—it’s a negotiation, not a war.

#RentIncrease #PropertyManagement #TenantTips #LandlordLife #RealEstateAustralia


EP. 1595 What Are We Going To Do With This Interest Rate Rise
#1595
02/04/2026

Interest rates rising? Don’t panic — prepare. 📈💡
The Sydney property market is shifting, but there’s still opportunity. History shows rate hikes often come in pairs, but remember: the market moves in steps, not straight lines.

💭 Tip of the day: Your super can be your secret weapon. Many Aussies have $180K+ in super — which can potentially fund a $600K property investment, separate from your personal lending limits. 👏

Less competition = more opportunity. Research, plan, and act when others hesitate. 🏡🔥
Need guidance? We’re here — free advice, no strings. 📞

#PropertyInvestment #InterestRates #FinancialFreedom #SydneyProperty #SuperStrategy #SmartBuying


EP. 1594 STORAGE WARS - GIRLS VS BOYS
#1594
02/03/2026

🚨 ONLY A FEW UNITS LEFT! 🚨

We’re talking 6m wide, 5m high, 22sqm of premium storage — and yep, 24/7 access 🔑

Perfect for tradies 🛠 (Bunnings is literally across the road), small biz owners, and anyone needing serious space 🙌

✔️ Low holding costs
✔️ No resales — people move in and stay
✔️ Move-in ready, cafe coming soon = community vibes loading...

💬 “You could fit thousands of shoeboxes in there.”
We’re sold. Are you?

📦 DM us for a viewing before they’re gone. These things sell themselves — literally.

#NorthernBeachesRealEstate #StorageGoals #Tradi...


NOVAK NEWS - RATE CUT OR RATE SHOCK - WHAT THIS MEANS FOR THE PROPERTY MARKET IN SYDNEY
02/02/2026

📍 Why Northern Beaches Property Is Built Different 🏡

Thinking about buying in Sydney? Here’s the truth:
The Northern Beaches stands out as one of the most secure areas for real estate. Unlike other markets that see ups and downs (we're looking at you, Perth & Gold Coast 👀), property here holds — and often grows — its value.

💬 “In all our years in real estate, we’ve never seen anyone lose money buying here.”

Even with high interest rates, long-term value remains solid. It’s a smart move for those looking for peace of mind and future gains.

...


EP. 1593 EVERYONE'S TALKING RATES - FIRST 2026 MEETING INCOMING
#1593
02/01/2026

🏡 Thinking about buying? Now might be your moment 👀✨

💸 Rents rising = mortgages closer than you think
🔑 Pre-approvals moving FAST (some same day!)
⏱ Even first home buyer schemes = only a few extra days
🚀 From planning to buying can happen quicker than expected

👣 First home buyers: test the waters at auctions
🙋‍♀️ Don’t rush the first bid — watch, learn, then jump in
📅 Jan–March shaping up as a strong buying window

If you’re ready to back yourself, the numbers are on the table 📊
Questions? Drop them below 👇

#PropertyTalk 🏡 #FirstHomeBuyers 🔑 #PreAppr...


EP. 1592 PICKING THE BEST MONTH TO BUY OR SELL REAL ESTATE
#1592
02/01/2026

💡 Thinking of buying or selling property? Here’s what REALLY matters 👇

✅ Pre-approval locked 🔒
📍 Know the suburb + property type
📊 Do your research (confidence comes from data)
🧠 Education = power (and peace of mind)
👥 Build your tribe for advice & perspective

💰 You can’t buy without funding…
😬 And you won’t buy without confidence

Every situation is different — short term vs long term, family plans vs forever home 🏡
But one thing’s constant: preparation is everything 🚀

🎙 More on this next Friday — stay tuned 👀

#PropertyTalk 🏡 #BuySmart 📊 #PreApproval 🔑 #PropertyEduc


EP. 1590 The Rent Volcano! Unlocking Industrial Secrets
#1590
01/28/2026

🔥 The Rental Volcano 🔥

Smart investors are flipping commercial spaces into cash flow machines. 💸 With a little creativity—like splitting one warehouse into two—you can double rental income and boost property value.

Think outside the box. Industrial and commercial give you the flexibility residential can't.

💡 Income = value
💪 Work = reward
📍 Opportunities from $300K to $1.2M+
📞 DM us to learn more.

#CommercialProperty #RealEstateInvesting #RentalVolcano #PassiveIncome #NovakProperties #ThinkOutsideTheBox


EP. 1591 AI TENANTS ATTACK PROPERTY MANAGERS
#1591
01/28/2026

💬 “Goodbye Siri, hello ChatGPT friend!”
Yes, that was said on air—and we LOVE it. 😂

From NCAT hearing prep to helping tenants get savvy, ChatGPT is officially part of the property game. We call them Ninja Tenants 🥷

Also... shoutout to the amazing Cleo Whittier—Lisa Novak calls her a QUEEN 👑 and we couldn’t agree more.

#NovakTeam #RealEstateTech #NinjaTenants #PropertyManagement #CleoWhittier #AIintheWorkplace #ChatGPT


EP. 1589! 7 YEARS, OVER 1500 EPISODES OF PODCASTING HOW IT STARTED
#1589
01/27/2026

📹 What started as a “do we really need to do this daily?” has become a game-changer.

From real-time insights to daily highlights with our 50+ team, we’ve turned everyday moments into valuable content—and you noticed. 💥

Thousands of hours of real estate knowledge later, we’re still going strong across 8+ platforms, reaching millions monthly.

🎤 Real people. Real questions. Real answers.
👀 And yes, that connection? It’s real too.

Thanks for the love. Here's to the next 1500 episodes! 🥂
#RealEstate #ContentMarketing #PropertyTips #NovakProperties #DailyShow #BehindTheScenes #AustraliaDay 🇦🇺


EP. 1588 SUPERANNUATION PAWNSTAR INVESTMENTS
#1588
01/27/2026


EP.1587 Experience Counts When Flood Damage Hits Your Rental
#1587
01/21/2026

Yes, we were open over Christmas 🎄 (15 years and counting!)

Landlords, two quick reminders:
✅ Double-check your insurance is paid (especially for houses, not just strata)
✅ Good tenants deserve a box of chocolates 🍫 (maybe don’t raise the rent right after 😅)

We’re always here to help—DM us any time!
#LandlordTips #PropertyManagement #RealEstateHumour #TenantLove


EP. 1586 The Unsung Heroes That Bought from Us 18 Months Ago
#1586
01/21/2026

Not your typical industrial tenants 🏗️ Think medical, science & global trade — all pre-signed and ready to move in.

These long-haul off-the-plan projects might take 2+ years, but the returns speak for themselves.

📍Near the largest Bunnings in Australia, no less.
#IndustrialProperty #CommercialRealEstate #WarehouseInvestment #PreLeased #PropertySuccess


NOVAK NEWS - How Much Does It Cost To Build a Duplex In NSW? Is It Feasible?
01/19/2026

Duplexes, downsizers, and development potential 🏘️💬 If you’re thinking about amalgamating or pricing a block, talk to local experts who know what’s feasible — and what’s not.

📲 Text zoning to 0460 111 111 for instant planning info.

#PropertyTalk #RealEstateAustralia #DuplexDevelopment


EP. 1585 WHY WOULD YOU SELL A PROPERTY ON INSTAGRAM?
#1585
01/19/2026

That record-breaking Manly sale? 📍 It all started with a DM.

Pre-market exposure via social media isn't just hype — it’s a powerful discovery tool for vendors. 📲👀

Want your property seen first? Let’s talk strategy.

#PreMarketPower #RealEstateMarketing #ManlyProperty #OffMarketListing


EP. 1584 CYCLES COME AND GO. CAPITAL CITIES KEEP COMPOUNDING
01/18/2026

Starting 2026 with a positive mindset 💭 Business, family, fitness — it’s all about doing what we love, with a smile. Let’s go! 💪✨ 

#NewYearGoals #BusinessLife #PodcastVibes


EP. 1582: THE FASTEST WAY TO INCREASE THE VALUE OF YOUR COMMERCIAL PROPERTY
#1582
01/07/2026

3 ways to boost your commercial property’s value 💼📈 — without lifting a hammer:
1️⃣ Secure a long lease or medical/legal tenant
2️⃣ Add usable floor space
3️⃣ Get DA or zoning approval
Value doesn’t always mean renovation. 😉
#CommercialProperty #InvestSmart #PropertyValue


EP. 1581 BEFORE YOU BUY THE APARTMENT - CHECK THIS FLOORPLAN HACKS!
#1581
01/06/2026

📐 Apartment hunting tip: Not all floor plans are created equal! 🏢

Pay attention to:
👉 Kitchen placement (noise can travel!)
👉 Corner units = more natural light 🌞
👉 Fewer shared walls = more peace & quiet 🧘‍♂️
👉 Galley vs breakfast bar kitchens 🍳

It’s the 1% details that give you the edge when buying off the plan or comparing units in the same block. You might not notice them at first glance—but once you do, you’ll never unsee it. 👀

#ApartmentTips #RealEstateAdvice #FloorPlanMatters #OffThePlan #PropertyBuying #FirstHomeBuyer


EP. 1580 - STYLING FOR KEEPS! INTERVIEWING NOT YOUR AVERAGE STYLIST
#1580
12/22/2025

✨ New year, fresh energy! ✨
Whether you're styling for a sale or zhuzhing up your home after a Christmas clean-out, Daley Cook Designs has you covered.
💻 www.daleycookdesigns.com.au

📸 @daleycook_designs
From consults to full-home packages — we style for keeps.
#HomeStyling #InteriorDesign #FreshStart #DaleyCookDesigns


EP. 1578 YAY LANDLORD VISIT!!!!!! FOR CHRISTMAS
#1578
12/18/2025

When inspections feel like a police car behind you...🚓😅
Even with notice, inspections can feel stressful. From spotless showers to weekend boundaries, every tenancy is different. Just remember: you have rights, and timing matters.
📅 Keep it within 8am–5:30pm, weekdays preferred.
✨ Be kind to yourself this silly season.
🎄 Merry Christmas and thanks for an incredible 2025!
#TenantTips #RentalLife #NSWProperty #MerryChristmas2025


EP. 1579 MASSIVE GROWTH FOR UNITS ARE ON HORIZON
#1579
12/18/2025

"Quote this now: By 2026, Sydney units will boom." 🏙️
We're calling it—Dee Why and Manly are set for serious growth. But beware of high-supply suburbs like Mascot and Parramatta.
🔍 Supply is the enemy of capital growth.
💡 Tip: Look at density, planned developments & long-term trends.
#SydneyProperty #RealEstateTips #InvestmentUnits #NorthernBeaches #DY #Manly


EP. 1576 rental tenancies gone wrong, who stole my cheese!
#1576
12/15/2025

🏠 Shared tenancies: Start it right. Finish it properly.

Had a few laughs today (yes, someone did ask how to use the washing machine 😅)…
But seriously — if you’re in a shared rental, here’s what you must know 👇

✔️ Communicate with your property manager
✔️ Make sure all documents are signed — starting and ending a tenancy
✔️ You can’t just remove yourself from a lease — landlord approval is required
✔️ The person staying behind must also be approved
✔️ Don’t forget: bond paperwork ≠ end of lease

⚠️ Pro tip: If you’re leaving a shared house, grab the termination...


EP. 1577 IS THE REAL ESTATE BUBBLE ABOUT TO EXPLODE?
#1577
12/15/2025

🏡 The property dream: Is it really slipping away?

We get it. It feels harder than ever to buy a home.
But when you zoom out over 30, 50, even 70 years… the data tells a different story 👇

📈 Generational ownership has followed a consistent, steady trend.
👵🏼 Baby Boomers made their mark.
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Gen X and Millennials are now taking the reins.
🤝 Government incentives have never been better to help you in.

Despite the headlines, real estate continues to prove itself — decade after decade.
The dream’s not dead. It's just different.

If you're sitting on the sidelines, w...