Hotspotting

Are first-home buyers really behind Australia's rising property prices? In this episode, we dig into the data, government schemes, and hidden advantages that are giving first-time buyers a huge edge over investors and second-home buyers. From tiny deposits and no stamp duty to tax perks, we break down why first-timers are dominating the market right now and why politicians and media often get the story wrong. If you want to understand the real forces driving Australia's housing market, this episode is your guide to who's really shaping property prices today.

Another interest rate rise is looming — and this time, it's not bad luck. Inflation is rising again, and the reasons are much closer to home than Australians are being told. Housing costs keep climbing, power prices are surging, productivity is weak and government spending remains elevated. These aren't temporary shocks — they're structural failures, and households are paying the price. In this episode, we unpack the latest inflation data, why the Reserve Bank is running out of options, and how policy decisions on housing, energy and spending are locking in higher interest rates for longer. If you want a clear, no-spin breakdown of what's really driving inflation in Australia — and what it means for mortgage holders, renters and small businesses — this is a conversation you don't want to miss.

Australia has a housing crisis—but it's not what you think. Builders are ready, investors are ready, yet homes remain scarce and unaffordable. The real culprit? Government red tape, restrictive zoning, and endless approval delays driving up costs by hundreds of thousands. In this episode, we unpack how policy barriers are choking housing supply, what the Productivity Commission and OECD are saying, and why cutting bureaucracy could finally make homes more affordable. Tune in to hear the real story behind Australia's housing shortage and what it will take to fix it.

Australia's rental crisis keeps getting worse, yet the same housing policies keep getting recycled. So who is really to blame? In this episode, we unpack the Greens' approach to housing and rentals, why property investors are being singled out, and whether policies like scrapping negative gearing, increasing capital gains tax and capping rents would actually fix affordability or make the shortage worse. We look at the data behind rising rents, ultra low vacancy rates and the real drivers of housing demand. If you want a clear eyed, evidence based discussion on Australia's housing crisis, rental supply and affordability, this episode is a must listen.

When even the NSW Government cannot make housing projects financially viable, what does that say about the real state of Australia's housing market? In this episode, we unpack why Landcom has scrapped major housing developments across western Sydney and what that reveals about construction costs, feasibility pressures, government housing targets and the growing gap between political promises and commercial reality. If you follow Australian property, housing affordability, real estate trends or market analysis, this episode cuts through the noise and gets to the numbers that actually matter.

Australia's property markets are set for growth in 2026 – but not in the way most experts think. In this episode, we dive into the Growth Leaders 2026 report from Hotspotting and Finance Better to uncover which cities and regions are poised for the biggest price increases. From capital cities to regional hotspots, even the markets thought to be "weaker" are showing strong signs of upward movement. We explore six key metrics that reveal the real drivers behind property value growth – beyond interest rates and media speculation. Tune in to discover where smart buyers and investors should be looking this year and why the data tells a very different story to the headlines.

Australia's housing crisis isn't a mystery – it's the result of government choices. In this episode, we dig into why Victoria is making home ownership harder than ever, from excessive red tape and slow approvals to punitive taxes that push costs through the roof. We break down the numbers, explore the real impact on buyers and developers, and uncover the structural barriers keeping new homes out of reach. If you've ever wondered why supply isn't meeting demand or why building a home is so expensive, this episode explains it all. Tune in to get the full picture behind Australia's housing shortage and what it means for the future of home ownership.

Australia's home building "recovery" is dominating headlines — but does it actually stack up? In this episode, we unpack the latest building approvals data and explain why a single strong month does not signal a genuine turnaround in Australia's housing market. We explore the real gap between approvals, commencements and completions, why so many approved projects never get built, and how construction costs, labour shortages and government red tape are constraining housing supply in 2026. If you care about housing affordability, property markets, real estate trends or policy reform, this episode delivers clear, independent analysis without the media spin.

Every January, the Australian media dusts off the same story. A single month of housing data is framed as a turning point for the property market and a warning sign for the year ahead. This episode unpacks why December housing figures are routinely misunderstood, how seasonal slowdowns skew the data, and why mainstream commentary often mistakes noise for insight. We examine what actually drives Australian house prices, from chronic housing undersupply and population growth to infrastructure investment, and why interest rate speculation is so often used as a lazy explanation. If you want a clearer, evidence based view of the Australian housing market in 2026 and beyond, and how to cut through misleading property headlines, this episode will give you the context the media leaves out.

Australia's housing crisis isn't a mystery – it's the result of government choices. In this episode, we dig into why Victoria is making home ownership harder than ever, from excessive red tape and slow approvals to punitive taxes that push costs through the roof. We break down the numbers, explore the real impact on buyers and developers, and uncover the structural barriers keeping new homes out of reach. If you've ever wondered why supply isn't meeting demand or why building a home is so expensive, this episode explains it all. Tune in to get the full picture behind Australia's housing shortage and what it means for the future of home ownership.

2026 is set to shake up the Australian property market, and the winners might surprise you. While the usual capitals have led growth in recent years, this year it's the small cities and overlooked regional markets stepping into the spotlight. Join us as we explore why Darwin, Hobart and Canberra are on the rise, and uncover the hidden hotspots across Tasmania, Victoria and New South Wales that investors are starting to notice. If you want to stay ahead of the market and spot the property growth leaders before everyone else, this episode is a must-listen.

In this episode, we unpack the property markets that didn't make our National Top 10 Best Buys 2026 — and why those omissions are just as important as the locations we included. Markets like Perth, Adelaide, the Gold Coast, Darwin and parts of regional Queensland have delivered standout growth. But we explain why being hot today doesn't always translate to strong future returns, and how competitive conditions can make buying well far more difficult. You'll hear how we identify early-cycle markets, why we avoid locations that have already had their best run, and where we believe the next wave of growth across Australia is starting to emerge. If you want to invest ahead of the cycle rather than chase yesterday's winners, this episode will give you a clear edge.

Social media is packed with self-proclaimed property gurus promising the "secret" suburbs set to boom in 2026. But how much of it can you actually trust? In this episode, we cut through the hype, exposing the telltale signs of fake property experts and showing you how to make smarter decisions when investing in Australian real estate. If you want to avoid costly mistakes and understand what really drives property growth, this is the guide you need. Tune in and learn why there are no shortcuts, no secrets, just proven strategies backed by real experience.

Australia's housing crisis is at record highs, but why aren't things improving? In this episode, we break down how government policies, constant law changes, and supply shortages are driving up house prices and rents. We explore why state and federal actions often make the problem worse, who really bears the cost, and what could actually help fix the affordability crisis. Tune in to get a clear, no-nonsense explanation of why homes are so expensive and what it means for renters, buyers, and investors across Australia.

Australia's property markets are moving like never before. From Darwin to Melbourne, buyer demand and prices are rising across almost every major city and regional market. In this episode, we unpack the latest Price Predictor Index, reveal which markets are leading the charge, and explore why affordable housing is driving nationwide momentum. Whether you're a buyer, investor, or property enthusiast, these insights will help you understand the unusual trends shaping Australian real estate as we head into 2026.

Three years ago, the National Top 10 Best Buys report highlighted Australian property locations expected to outperform over the long term. Now, the data shows just how powerful those location calls turned out to be. In this episode, we unpack how some investors achieved capital growth above $200,000 and in some cases close to $300,000 in just three years. You will hear why eight of the ten recommended locations delivered price growth of 50 percent or more, which suburbs surged by over 70 percent, and what separated the standout markets from the rest. We also discuss what these results reveal about long term property strategy, why South Australia, Queensland and Western Australia led the way, and how the latest Best Buys report is being shaped by future growth fundamentals rather than short term noise. If you are serious about Australian property investing, capital growth, and choosing the right locations for the next five to ten years, this episode delivers timely insights you do not want to miss.

Each year, this is our most anticipated session — and for good reason. In this Annual Reflections & Projections Webinar, Hotspotting Founder Terry Ryder and Managing Director Tim Graham review how Australia's property market actually performed in 2025, then use those insights to map what's ahead for 2026 and beyond. This session cuts through the noise and headlines to focus on real data, real cycles, and real opportunities.

Think the top growth suburbs on the Sunshine Coast are what they seem? Most lists you see are misleading, based on tiny sales samples and distorted data. In reality, six of the top seven suburbs on a recent list were farcical nonsense. Don't make property decisions based on bad data. Watch the full breakdown now and get the real story.

Regional Victoria is on the rise, and property investors are paying attention. After years of high taxes and strict real estate rules, sales activity is surging across towns like Bendigo, Geelong, Ballarat, Shepparton and the Latrobe Valley. In this episode, we break down the latest Price Predictor Index data and ABS property finance figures to reveal which markets are thriving, why investors are returning, and where home buyers are finding real value. If you're curious about the strongest regional property markets since 2021, this episode is a must-listen.

Millions of Australians dive into property investment aiming for financial freedom or a secure retirement, but most never achieve it. In this episode, we explore why so many fall short and what separates the 1% who build sizeable property portfolios. Based on my new book Why Property Values Rise, we uncover the 12 rookie mistakes that slow investors down, from following the herd to ignoring expert advice. If you're serious about property wealth, understanding these pitfalls could transform the way you invest. Tune in to discover practical strategies, insider tips, and the key mindset shifts that help Australian investors succeed.

Almost everyone agrees Australia is in a housing crisis — but why can't we agree on what's causing it? In this episode, we unpack a revealing Macquarie University study that shows the nation is united on the problem, yet divided on the reasons behind it. We dive into what Australians think is driving the crisis — from population growth and interest rates to housing supply and taxes — and why the usual media scapegoats like foreign buyers and investor tax breaks don't rank as highly as you'd expect. You'll also hear why misinformation, mixed messaging and a lack of political leadership are keeping the crisis alive, and what it really takes to fix a system weighed down by decades of policy failures. If you want a clear, grounded and genuinely eye-opening look at the forces shaping Australia's property market, this episode delivers.

Property prices are rising… or falling… depending on who you ask. With major data sources reporting completely different results, it's no wonder Australians are confused about what's really happening in the market. In this episode, we break down the latest numbers from PropTrack and Cotality to uncover where the data aligns, where it clashes, and why "official" figures aren't always as solid as they seem. From Darwin's conflicting unit prices to the quiet strength of regional markets, we dig into the rubbery numbers shaping big investment decisions. If you want a clearer, calmer understanding of Australia's true housing trends — without the hype or confusion — this is your go-to explainer.

Guest: Ian Perkins, Co-Founder & Director, Lawlab What if reviewing your property contract was as simple as uploading a file and letting AI do the rest? In this episode of The Property Playbook, Tim Graham sits down with Ian Perkins of Lawlab, one of Australia's most innovative property law firms, to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming the world of conveyancing. Founded in 1899 and reinvented for the digital age, Lawlab has revolutionised property transactions with secure, streamlined technology—making the process faster, smarter, and more transparent. Ian unveils their latest innovation, BuySecure, an AI-powered tool that translates complex property contracts into plain English, giving buyers instant clarity and confidence before they sign.

While housing affordability dominates political debate, most Australians don't actually want prices to drop. In this episode, we unpack new data showing strong confidence in the property market and explore how government policies, limited supply, and buyer sentiment are keeping prices on the rise. We also look at why politicians talk about affordability but rarely act — and what this means for buyers, renters, and investors across Australia.

What if the suburbs with the best rental returns were also the ones skyrocketing in value? In this episode of The Pulse, we uncover the most surprising trend in Australian real estate — the same locations we picked for their high yields are now leading the nation in capital growth. We dive into the data from past editions and reveal how many of these 50 hotspots have doubled in value in less than five years. From Perth to Queensland to South Australia, these affordable, high-performing markets are delivering a true investor's dream — strong cash flow, rapid price growth, and long-term potential. Tune in to discover where smart investors are finding the ultimate win-win-win: affordability, yield, and growth.

Every investor wants to know the secret to finding Australia's next property growth hotspots — but how do you actually predict where values will rise next? In this episode, we dive into the key drivers behind property growth and unpack the metrics and indicators that reveal which locations are set to outperform. Forget backward-looking data — this is about reading the signs of the future. Based on insights from the new book Why Property Values Rise, you'll learn how to spot tomorrow's top-performing suburbs today and make smarter, future-focused investment decisions.

High-yield property markets are disappearing fast — so where are investors still finding strong returns in 2025? In this episode, we unpack Australia's shifting property landscape and reveal the locations that still offer solid rental yields and room for growth. We also explore how savvy investors are using depreciation to lift their returns and stay cashflow positive, even as yields tighten nationwide. If you're serious about property investing, this episode will help you spot the opportunities others are missing and make smarter moves in today's market.

Australia's wealth keeps breaking records — but is it all built on property? The latest ABS data shows total household wealth has hit $17.76 trillion, with residential real estate making up the bulk of it. Meanwhile, a global report ranks Australia as the second wealthiest country in the world, behind only Luxembourg. In this episode, we unpack what's really driving Australia's growing prosperity, why property plays such a massive role, and what this means for the future of the housing market. Tune in for a grounded look at the numbers behind the headlines — and what they reveal about Australia's real wealth story.

You've probably seen the headlines claiming you can still buy a home in Australia for under $300K — but is it really that simple? In this episode, we dig into the truth behind those "cheap property" lists and why they often mislead buyers and investors. We'll unpack how these headlines get made, what they leave out, and why chasing a bargain in the wrong place could cost you more than you think. Tune in for real talk on the Australian property market, smart investing, and how to separate solid advice from clickbait.

Not all property research is what it seems. Too often, so-called "groundbreaking studies" and "top suburbs to buy" lists are nothing more than clever publicity stunts dressed up as data. In this episode, we unpack one of these high-profile reports making waves in the media and reveal why it could send investors down the wrong path. You'll learn how to see through the spin, spot misleading property advice, and focus on the real drivers of growth in the Australian property market.

Not all high-yield property markets are worth the risk. The latest National Top 10 Positive Cashflow Hotspots report uncovers where investors can still achieve strong rental returns and long-term growth — and which once-booming locations no longer make the cut. In this episode, we dive into why markets like Rockingham, Townsville and Rockhampton have dropped off, what makes a market truly safe and sustainable, and where to look now for genuine positive cashflow opportunities. Tune in to stay ahead of the curve in Australia's ever-changing property landscape.

Some of Australia's biggest media outlets keep getting real estate stories wrong — and this latest one takes the cake. In this episode, we unpack a so-called "white paper" claiming that units are a bad investment and reveal why that idea is completely outdated. The truth is, the property landscape is changing fast. In many markets, units and townhouses are now outperforming houses on capital growth. So why does the media keep recycling the same myths? Tune in as we break down what's really happening in Australia's property market and what it means for investors and homebuyers alike.

We've all heard the classic line – land appreciates, buildings depreciate. But is it still true? In this episode, we unpack one of property's oldest clichés and explore why it's not the land itself that creates value, but the location. From lifestyle shifts and urban convenience to the rise of secure, low-maintenance living, units and apartments are outperforming houses in markets across Australia. So, has the property paradigm finally changed? Tune in for clear, data-backed insights on property investment, real estate trends, and the future of housing in Australia.zazazazzzzaazaz

Think doubling your property value in ten years sounds impressive? In reality, that's pretty mediocre — yet the media keeps hyping it up as groundbreaking. In this episode, we unpack how clickbait headlines and self-promotional “research” distort the truth about the Australian property market. Discover where real growth is happening and why most real estate coverage misses the mark.

Australia's population is booming — but the real story lies in where that growth is happening. Victoria has added the most people, yet WA and Queensland are still leading the pack for growth rates. So, what's driving these shifts — and what do they mean for property and migration trends across the country? In this episode, we unpack the latest id.com.au population data, explore why Australians are on the move, and reveal how overseas migration is reshaping our states. Whether you're into real estate, economics, or just curious about the numbers behind the headlines, this one's worth a listen.

Are investors and foreign buyers really driving up Australia's property prices? The latest NAB survey paints a very different picture — showing that home buyers still dominate the market. In this episode, we dig into the real numbers behind housing affordability, the rise of first-home buyers, and why the media might be getting it wrong. Tune in to uncover what's really happening in the Australian property market and what it means for buyers, investors, and anyone trying to get a foot in the door.

Australia's housing shortage isn't just about not enough homes — it's about the soaring cost of building them.

Why do property price guides keep failing buyers — and what can be done to fix them? In this episode, Tim Graham sits down with Jacob Caine, Interim CEO of the Real Estate Institute of Victoria (REIV), to unpack one of the most controversial topics in Australian real estate: underquoting. Despite reforms in 2017, public frustration and media scrutiny remain. Jacob explains why, what's really driving consumer distrust, and how the REIV's new Strategic Working Group is developing a Blueprint for Price Guides to improve transparency, protect vendors' rights, and restore confidence in the market. Together, Tim and Jacob explore: Why underquoting persists — and how widespread it really is What the 2017 legislation got right … and where it falls short How data transparency can reduce confusion for buyers and agents alike  The role of the REIV's Working Group and its proposed reforms The case for mandatory disclosure of sales results and stronger comparables  How Victoria's model compares with other states like Queensland Jacob shares practical insights from the frontline — including why only a fraction of a percent of auctions end in underquoting fines, and how new data requirements and clearer rules could reshape the way Australians buy and sell property.

Why does the same “saving for a home deposit” story keep making headlines year after year? In this episode, we dig into the truth behind those so-called property “research reports” and why the media can't resist them — even when they're wildly misleading. We uncover how these reports are designed to grab attention, not inform buyers, and reveal what's actually happening for first-home buyers in today's market. From media spin to real affordability, this episode cuts through the noise to give you the facts.

We've all heard it — investors get all the tax breaks while home buyers struggle to get a foot in the door. But what if that story's completely backwards? In this episode, we dig into the real numbers behind Australia's housing tax system and reveal who's actually getting the bigger benefits. Spoiler: it's not the investors. Tune in as we break down the myths, unpack the facts, and explore what this means for the housing crisis, property affordability, and the future of home ownership in Australia.

Australia's housing crisis dominates the headlines, but are short term rentals like Airbnb really to blame? Politicians, media and commentators keep pointing the finger at property owners – yet new research from the University of South Australia shows restrictions and taxes on short term rentals do little to improve affordability or supply. In this episode, we break down the myths, look at the evidence, and explore why governments keep scapegoating Airbnb hosts instead of tackling the real causes of the rental crisis. We'll also unpack what this means for renters, property investors and Australia's tourism industry. If you want fresh insights into housing policy, property markets and the future of affordable rentals, this is a conversation you won't want to miss.

Selling your home can be one of the most emotional and financially critical decisions of your life. But what if there was a way to take the stress out of it and ensure you get the best result possible? In this episode, Tim Graham sits down with Tom Ryan, founder of Tom Ryan Vendor Advocacy. With over 35 years in real estate, Tom specialises in helping vendors choose the right agent, manage the selling process, and achieve better outcomes with less stress.

Spring has flipped the script on Australia's property market – and the shifts are huge. In this episode of The Price Predictor Index, we unpack the latest quarterly trends shaking up real estate across the country. Brisbane is surging, Melbourne's revival is in full swing, and Sydney has jumped back into the growth cycle – all fuelled by soaring demand for units, townhouses and apartments. But while the big cities rise, former leaders like Perth, Regional WA and Queensland are cooling fast, and Darwin has become the nation's hottest market. We also dive into regional bright spots in Victoria, South Australia and beyond.

In this episode, Tim Graham sits down with Louis Velasquez—better known as Lucky—the founder of Finance Better. From humble beginnings in the slums of Manila to becoming a hedge fund trader and ultimately building one of Australia's standout mortgage broking businesses, Lucky's story is one of grit, resilience, and purpose. Lucky opens up about: His journey from hardship to finance – including being homeless as a teen, landing a role at a major bank, and discovering his passion for helping families make smarter financial choices. Building Finance Better – how he carved out a reputation in a competitive industry by keeping advice simple, relatable, and focused on people, not just numbers.  Lessons in business – the importance of planning for success, hiring to fill gaps, and knowing when to step back and bring in leadership to take things to the next level. Innovation in finance – how Finance Better is investing in AI and customer experience, creating platforms that help people better manage their loans and portfolios 24/7. Market insights – his candid take on the 5% deposit scheme, why many first-home buyers may turn into rentvestors, and why he believes Australia is heading into a “super boom” driven by migration, falling rates, and housing undersupply. This conversation goes beyond policies and products, uncovering the human story behind Lucky's passion for finance and his bold predictions for the property market. Where to connect with Lucky: Website: financebetter.com.au Instagram: @_luckyvelasquez

The Australian property market is on the move again — and the Spring edition of The Price Predictor Index uncovers some surprising shifts. Brisbane is strengthening, Melbourne's revival is confirmed, and Sydney is back in the growth game. Meanwhile, Perth and regional hotspots in WA and Queensland are cooling, as Darwin surges to the top and the Gold Coast keeps powering ahead. In this episode, we break down the latest market trends, reveal where buyer demand is heating up, and highlight what these changes mean for investors, home buyers, and anyone keeping an eye on Australia's real estate landscape.

Is negative gearing really to blame for Australia's housing crisis? A new Finder survey asked 22 leading economists, academics, and property experts how to make housing more affordable — and their answers may surprise you. Not one pointed to negative gearing, and only one mentioned capital gains tax. Instead, the focus was on boosting housing supply, cutting red tape, rethinking demand-side incentives, and even considering the impact of migration. In this episode, we unpack what the experts actually said, why the usual media narratives miss the mark, and what solutions could really make a difference to Australia's housing affordability problem.

Why are property prices across Australia still on the rise when affordability is already stretched?

Why are property prices across Australia still on the rise when affordability is already stretched?

Sally McManus and the ACTU want to scrap negative gearing and the capital gains tax “concession” for property investors, arguing it will fix housing affordability. But does the evidence actually stack up? In this episode, we dive into the history of negative gearing in Australia, the real impact of CGT rules, and why blaming property investors might miss the bigger picture. From rental shortages to soaring construction costs, we unpack the policies that have shaped today's housing crisis — and what really needs to change. Perfect for anyone interested in Australian property, housing policy, and the politics driving affordability.

In this episode, Terry Ryder, Founder of Hotspotting, sits down with Adam Horth — a seasoned real estate professional, trainer, and Operations Director at Smartre Group. Adam's journey began at just 19 years old, starting out as a salesperson and eventually building his own highly successful agency in Ipswich, QLD. Within six years, his office was the number one agency in the area, supported by a team of high-performing agents. Today, Adam combines his passion for real estate with training and leadership, helping agency principals and salespeople across Australia and New Zealand through Smartre Training. Together, Terry and Adam explore: Adam's first property purchase — the mistakes, the lessons, and why “failing forward” shaped his approach to investing. Investment philosophies — from the importance of education to understanding compounding and why there isn't one single “right” strategy. The value of good advice — why many investors shy away from paying for mentoring or research, and how this often limits success. Sales and agency insights — what separates a great real estate agent from the rest, and how vendors and buyers can use this to their advantage. Residential vs commercial property — Adam's experience with both, and why portfolio diversity is key for long-term resilience. Personal growth and leadership — the role of reading, self-education, and Adam's principle of “educate yourself before you entertain yourself”. This conversation blends candid personal stories, practical advice, and a wealth of real-world experience. Whether you're a first-time investor, an aspiring property professional, or someone leading a sales team, Adam's perspective offers invaluable takeaways.

Everyone's suddenly talking about the “Darwin boom” as if it came out of nowhere – but did it really? In this episode, we unpack why the media has only just noticed what was obvious months ago. We reveal how forward-looking data pointed to Darwin's rise well before prices surged, and why the so-called exodus to affordable lifestyle is anything but new. If you want to spot the next growth markets before the headlines do, this one's for you.