In this episode of the First Property Buyer Show, host Emilie Lauer sits down with KHI head buyer’s agent and Australia’s former top mortgage broker, Ross Le Quesne, to discuss finances and long-term wealth-building strategies.

The episode begins with Ross sharing insights from his journey, having purchased his first home in the early 2000s for $315,000, which would be worth over $1 million today, illustrating the growing challenges that first-time buyers face.

He stresses the importance of focusing on future goals rather than emotional attachments to properties, cautioning against becoming accidental investors.

Ross also debunks the myth that a 20 per cent deposit is necessary, highlighting options like family guarantor loans and lender’s mortgage insurance to help buyers enter the market sooner.

He emphasises consulting a mortgage broker early for financial guidance beyond loans and warns against off-the-plan properties, urging buyers to choose assets that support long-term wealth creation.

Ultimately, Ross encourages buyers to act promptly, as property remains a powerful wealth-building tool despite current market challenges.

In this episode of the First Property Buyer Show, host Emilie Lauer sits down with Kev Tran, director and principal buyer’s agent at Kev Tran Group, to discuss the key dilemma for first-time buyers: buying a home to live in versus starting with an investment.

Kev shares how he went from a misinformed first purchase to becoming a successful rentvestor with four properties, now favouring established homes over off-the-plan buys due to delays and poor capital growth.

He explains that while a primary residence offers stability, it can limit borrowing power, whereas rentvesting allows buyers to invest in more affordable markets and benefit from tax advantages.

The duo also highlights a growing trend called “stayvesting” where buyers live with family while investing.

Kev said rentvestors and stayvestors should focus on building a strong support team, especially having a skilled broker and property manager, and prioritise strategic locations with solid economic fundamentals.

While government incentives can help, Kev urges buyers to think beyond short-term perks and focus on long-term financial outcomes.

In this episode of the First Property Buyer Show, host Emilie Lauer sits down with seasoned buyer’s agent from Advocate Property Services, Jo Vadillo, to discuss the art of property negotiation and how to master it.

Jo highlights the importance of having a clear strategy and being well-prepared, urging buyers to resist pressure to name a price too soon and instead focus on understanding market value, vendor motivations, and competition before making an offer.

She stresses that negotiation isn’t just about price; flexibility, speed, and favourable terms can give buyers a competitive edge, advising buyers to put everything in writing while addressing issues like repairs with tact and professionalism.

Jo explains that being pre-approved and ready to move quickly can make an offer far more appealing to agents and sellers, especially when backed by a 66W certificate in NSW, which signals the buyer’s full commitment with no cooling-off period.

Finally, she urges buyers to do their homework, compare recent sales, and feel confident submitting lower offers if the property appears overpriced.