The WA Property Q&A

Peter Fletcher
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Welcome to WA Property Q&A, the ultimate podcast for property buyers in Western Australia. Join your host, Peter Fletcher, as he interviews a lineup of industry experts to bring you the latest insights, tips, and advice on navigating the Western Australian real estate market. Each week, Peter delves into the pressing questions and topics that matter most to property buyers in WA. From discussing the intricacies of property laws and regulations specific to the region to exploring the current market trends and opportunities, this podcast covers it all. Focusing on practical advice and real-life experiences, WA Property Q&A offers a valuable resource for real estate agents, property conveyancers, and anyone looking to purchase property in Western Australia. From understanding the local property market dynamics to uncovering hidden gems in different regions, this podcast equips you with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions. So, whether you're a first-time buyer, an experienced investor, or a real estate professional, tune in to the WA Property Q&A podcast for a weekly dose of expert interviews, insider tips, and engaging discussions that will help you navigate the world of property in Western Australia like a pro. Get ready to discover the secrets to successful property buying in WA!

  1. EP47: Auctions, Transparency & Government Intervention — What Property Investors Need to Know

    3D AGO

    EP47: Auctions, Transparency & Government Intervention — What Property Investors Need to Know

    In this episode, I’m joined by Robert Mandanici, Vice President of REIWA and Director of Paddington Realty, to unpack one of the most debated topics in Australian real estate right now: transparency in property sales and the growing role of government intervention. We start by examining proposed changes coming out of Victoria around compulsory disclosure of auction reserve prices—and why those reforms could have unintended consequences for both buyers and sellers. Rob brings a seasoned, on-the-ground perspective to the conversation, explaining why auctions, when conducted properly, can actually be one of the most transparent sales methods available. We also explore how WA’s market differs from the eastern states, the risks of poorly designed regulation, and what investors should be watching as governments respond to housing affordability, planning reform, and sustainability pressures. Key Topics Covered: ✅ Why compulsory disclosure of auction reserves may backfire ✅ Auctions vs private treaty — transparency myths and realities ✅ How buyers can end up bidding against themselves in low-stock markets ✅ The impact of government intervention on property prices and transaction speed ✅ Why WA’s auction framework differs from Victoria and NSW ✅ Planning reform around transport hubs and higher-density living ✅ Sustainability, insurance risk, and how banks are shaping property values ✅ The growing role of AI and data in real estate decision-making Actionable Insights for Property Investors: Understand the Method of Sale: Auctions can be highly transparent—but only when properly regulated and understood.Beware of Unintended Regulation: Government reforms can change buyer behaviour and pricing dynamics in unexpected ways.Know Your Market: WA operates very differently from the eastern states—don’t assume policies translate cleanly.Watch Planning Changes Closely: Density around transport hubs will reshape long-term supply and values. Factor in Sustainability: Insurance and lending criteria are increasingly influencing what properties can be financed or insured. Connect with Me Website: https://rezzi.com.au/ Podcast Hub: https://rezzi.com.au/podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rezziau/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@rezzi5526 Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review—it helps other WA property investors find the information they need to make better decisions.

    42 min
  2. EP46: From Risk to Reward: What Smart Investors Should Know About Strata

    10/22/2025

    EP46: From Risk to Reward: What Smart Investors Should Know About Strata

    Strata property can be a smart investment—but it can also turn into a financial nightmare if you don’t understand the risks. In this episode, I sit down with my business partner at Rezzi Strata, Nikki D’Agostino, to share real stories from the front line of strata management. We talk about one shocking case where a $12K insurance policy skyrocketed to over $300K, why certain tenancy types are considered high risk, and how WA’s Strata Titles Act reforms can shift costs back onto problem owners or tenants. We also explore what makes a scheme “unmanageable,” the importance of checking strata minutes before you buy, and why community harmony matters for long-term value. If you’re investing in WA property, this episode could save you thousands. Key Topics Covered: ✅ Why certain tenancy types can send insurance premiums through the roof ✅ How a $12K policy turned into a $300K nightmare for one strata scheme ✅ The new WA legislation that allows costs to be shifted back to problem owners or tenants ✅ What makes a strata scheme “unmanageable” from a manager’s perspective ✅ How strata minutes can affect property valuations—and your exit strategy ✅ Why building community matters just as much as managing compliance ✅ The role of AI, automation, and offshore teams in the future of strata management Resources & Links: WA Strata Titles Act reformsWebsite: https://rezzi.com.auInstagram: @rezziauYouTube: Rezzi Channel Connect with Me Website: https://rezzi.com.au Podcast Hub: https://rezzi.com.au/podcast/ Instagram: @rezziau YouTube: Rezzi Channel Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review—it helps other WA investors discover the insights that protect their portfolios.

    47 min
  3. EP45 Real Estate Fatigue Is Real: Burnout, Buyer Stress & Broken Systems in WA

    08/12/2025

    EP45 Real Estate Fatigue Is Real: Burnout, Buyer Stress & Broken Systems in WA

    In Episode 45, Peter Fletcher sits down with industry veterans Nikki D’Agostino and Davide Palermo to take the pulse of WA’s real estate industry—and it’s clear that fatigue is setting in across all fronts. Whether it’s burnout from relentless compliance reform, buyer exhaustion, or mental health strain among agents, this episode explores the human cost of a market under pressure. From the effects of COVID-era disruption to the reality of 200-page contracts, the team discusses what’s broken—and what we can do to fix it.

    32 min
  4. EP44 Strengthening Trust in Property Transactions – A Call to Action for the Real Estate Industry

    07/22/2025

    EP44 Strengthening Trust in Property Transactions – A Call to Action for the Real Estate Industry

    In this powerful solo episode, Peter Fletcher takes the mic to sound the alarm on a growing crisis in the Australian property sector: the rise of unlicensed buyer’s agents operating in the shadows of the industry. With the proliferation of social media-driven services and vague “investment advisor” labels, too many consumers are unknowingly placing their trust—and money—in the hands of unqualified operators. Peter outlines a seven-point reform proposal aimed at closing regulatory loopholes, empowering consumers, and supporting licensed professionals. If you’re in real estate sales, buyer advocacy, conveyancing, or regulatory enforcement, this episode is a must-listen.

    12 min
  5. EP43 Understanding AML-CTF in WA Real Estate: A Guide for Agents, Buyers & Sellers

    06/18/2025

    EP43 Understanding AML-CTF in WA Real Estate: A Guide for Agents, Buyers & Sellers

    This week on the WA Property Q&A, Peter Fletcher welcomes back Ches Rafferty to discuss the significant changes brought about by AML-CTF (Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing) regulations impacting Western Australian real estate agents and conveyancers.  Ches clarifies the complexities of these new rules, effective July 1st, 2026, emphasizing the importance of customer due diligence and suspicious matter reporting. He explains the need for real estate professionals to verify the identities of buyers and sellers, outlining the potential consequences of non-compliance – hefty fines reaching millions of dollars.  While acknowledging privacy concerns, Ches stresses the crucial role of these regulations in preventing serious crimes like drug trafficking and human exploitation. He also highlights the upcoming release of detailed guidelines from AUSTRAC in January 2026, advising listeners to begin their education and planning now, but to avoid rushing into costly solutions before the guidelines are released. Key Takeaways: AML-CTF regulations require real estate agents and conveyancers to implement comprehensive compliance programs by July 1st, 2026.Customer due diligence, including identity verification and checks against sanctions and politically exposed persons lists, is mandatory.Suspicious matter reports must be filed with AUSTRAC when unusual behavior is detected, even if it's a "mate" involved in the transaction. Non-compliance carries severe penalties, including substantial fines and potential business closure.Detailed AUSTRAC guidelines will be released in January 2026; professionals should begin educating themselves and planning their compliance strategy now. Understanding AML-CTF in WA Property What is AML-CTF? AML-CTF stands for Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing. It's a federal act expanding regulations to minimize money laundering and terrorism funding in various sectors, including real estate. This impacts real estate agents and conveyancers (but not property managers) from July 1st, 2026. Impact on Real Estate Agents and Conveyancers: All real estate agents and conveyancers must implement an AML-CTF program, conduct customer due diligence (identifying buyers), and file suspicious matter reports (SMRs) with AUSTRAC if buyer behavior seems suspicious. Detailed guidelines from AUSTRAC are expected in January 2026. Customer Due Diligence:  This involves verifying the identity of buyers and sellers, checking against money laundering and terrorism lists. While the exact timing isn't fully defined yet, it's likely required upon offer submission. Refusal to comply with identity verification can result in the agent or conveyancer refusing to proceed with the transaction. It's not the agent's responsibility to prevent transactions, but they must still proceed with due diligence and reporting of suspicious activity. "Tipping off" is illegal, thus even if you are suspicious the transaction still proceeds. Verification and Safe Harbor: Verification platforms can help real estate agents and conveyancers meet their obligations. While these platforms can provide evidence of due diligence, they do not provide absolute safe harbor; the business retains ultimate responsibility. Comprehensive record-keeping is crucial. Ongoing due diligence is generally only required for clients with frequent transactions, like professional property buyers. Source of Funds: While not always required, scrutiny of funds increases if the source seems unusual (e.g., a sudden shift from financing to cash). Suspicious activity needs to be reported. Penalties for Non-Compliance: Non-compliance carries significant penalties, including criminal charges, fines up to $6 million for individuals and $24 million for businesses, and daily penalties for failure to enroll. Record-keeping is crucial to demonstrate due diligence and avoid penalties. Educate yourself and your staff on AML-CTF regulations.Start planning your compliance strategy now; don't wait until June 2026.Enroll with AUSTRAC as soon as possible after January 2026.Consider using a reputable compliance platform to assist with due diligence and reporting.Implement robust record-keeping procedures.Develop clear processes for identifying and reporting suspicious activity.Implement an AML-CTF compliance program Links and Resources:  AUSTRAC - Summary of AML/CTF obligations for tranche 2 entities Scantek - AML/CTF platform expressions of interest Scantek - Real estate agents, here’s what you need to know about the upcoming AML/CTF Tranche 2 changes Visit the AUSTRAC website to learn more about AML-CTF compliance requirements. Start researching technology and service providers to assist with your compliance program now, don't wait until the last minute. Begin your preparations today to ensure a smooth transition and avoid the significant penalties associated with non-compliance.

    54 min
  6. EP42 Navigating Strata Management: Insightful Tips from Nikki D'Agostino

    04/23/2025

    EP42 Navigating Strata Management: Insightful Tips from Nikki D'Agostino

    In this episode of WA Property Q&A, we welcome back Nikki D’Agostino, co-owner of Rezzi Strata. With decades of experience in the industry, Nikki shares insights into the complexities of strata management, from handling large-scale developments to guiding residential property owners. She also discussed the importance of proper governance, industry regulations, and the evolving role of strata managers in Western Australia.   Key Topics in this episode: The complexities of managing mixed-use strata developments  The importance of education and certification in strata management  Differences between residential and commercial strata schemes  Common issues residential strata owners face, including property modifications  How Rezzi Strata is adapting to rapid growth and industry challenges   She discussed the importance of proper legislation, licensing, and industry advocacy, emphasizing structured budgets and bylaws in strata management. Nikki highlights how strata setups impact financial responsibilities, with grouped budgets differentiating costs for hotel operators, residential owners, and commercial tenants.   She also notes the challenges property owners face, particularly in smaller residential developments, where many are unfamiliar with strata rules, such as requiring approval for modifications like patio installations. The conversation underscores the importance of clear regulations, well-implemented software systems, and professional expertise in managing strata properties efficiently. 00:00 Introduction to WA Property Q&A 00:48 Meet Nikki: Strata Management Expert 01:23 Complexities of Strata Management 04:46 Navigating Strata Approvals 14:00 Understanding Strata Levies and Costs 19:27 Reserve Funds and Long-term Planning 24:26 Strata Loan and Levies Explained 25:41 Unexpected Maintenance Costs 26:39 Importance of Proactive Maintenance 30:19 Strata Living: Pros and Cons 32:52 Common Questions and Issues in Strata 34:54 Parking Problems in Strata Complexes 41:09 Final Thoughts and Advice #StrataManagementWA, #NikkiDAgostino, #RealEstateWA Visit our website: https://rezzi.com.au/ Subscribe on these channels:  Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-wa-property-q-a/id1698464149 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/31Nnigbr2rHmUffkEUxRWY Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/the-wa-property-qa-5401298

    46 min
  7. EP41 Choosing property management software: A conversation with Michelle Rigg.

    03/26/2025

    EP41 Choosing property management software: A conversation with Michelle Rigg.

    In this episode of WA Property Q&A, I sat down with Michelle Rigg, General Manager of Rentwest Property Solutions, to discuss the complexities of property management software. We covered Rentwest's journey from using VaultRE, Colmeo, to PropertyMe, and the challenges faced along the way. Michelle shares valuable insights into the decision-making process, implementation hurdles, and the importance of automation in property management systems. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of property management in Western Australia and the future of property management software. 00:00 Introduction to WA Property Q&A 00:47 Meet Michelle Rigg from Rentwest Solutions 02:37 Discussing Software Choices for Property Management 03:58 Experience with Volt RE 09:31 Transition to Colmeo 11:57 Challenges with Colmeo 19:54 Future of Property Management Software 22:58 The Decision to Change Programs 23:26 Team Involvement and Considerations 24:25 Choosing Property Me Over Property Tree 27:50 Transition Challenges and Manual Processes 34:14 Reflections and Future Goals 42:45 Conclusion and Contact Information Visit our website: https://rezzi.com.au/ Subscribe on these channels:  Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-wa-property-q-a/id1698464149 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/31Nnigbr2rHmUffkEUxRWY Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/the-wa-property-qa-5401298

    46 min
  8. EP40 Navigating Strata Management in WA with Nikki D'Agostino

    01/28/2025

    EP40 Navigating Strata Management in WA with Nikki D'Agostino

    In this episode of WA Property Q&A Podcast, Nikki D’Agostino joins us once again, this time, not only as a guest, but also business partner and discuss the intricacies of strata management in Western Australia.  Key points: Learn about the current lack of regulations for strata managers, the importance of transparency in commissions, the potential for reform within the industry. Discover how developers can better manage initial levies, the role of 10-year maintenance plans, and iinnovative ways to redevelop older properties.  Be sure to watch the full episode on YouTube and subscribe on your favorite podcast platforms. We hope you enjoy this conversation. Chapters:  00:00 Introduction to WA Property Q&A 00:47 Meet Nikki D'Agostino: New Business Partner 01:21 Motivation behind starting a strata management business 01:59 Industry changes and media focus 02:59 Lack of regulation in WA strata management 04:00 Upcoming educational requirements 05:29 Proposals for licensing and regulation 17:43 Challenges in strata management communication 21:07 Technological solutions and relationship building 22:08 Optimal council size for effective management 22:32 Communication strategies for strata management 24:06 Role of real estate agents in strata management 25:47 Controversy over strata manager commissions 31:05 Developers' influence in strata management 33:21 Importance of 10-Year maintenance plans 35:16 Revitalizing Older Buildings 40:09 Funding and grants for strata improvements 42:28 Conclusion and Future Prospects Links and Resources:  RezziPeter Fletcher on LinkedIn Subscribe on these channels:  Apple Podcasts Spotify Podchaser

    45 min
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About

Welcome to WA Property Q&A, the ultimate podcast for property buyers in Western Australia. Join your host, Peter Fletcher, as he interviews a lineup of industry experts to bring you the latest insights, tips, and advice on navigating the Western Australian real estate market. Each week, Peter delves into the pressing questions and topics that matter most to property buyers in WA. From discussing the intricacies of property laws and regulations specific to the region to exploring the current market trends and opportunities, this podcast covers it all. Focusing on practical advice and real-life experiences, WA Property Q&A offers a valuable resource for real estate agents, property conveyancers, and anyone looking to purchase property in Western Australia. From understanding the local property market dynamics to uncovering hidden gems in different regions, this podcast equips you with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions. So, whether you're a first-time buyer, an experienced investor, or a real estate professional, tune in to the WA Property Q&A podcast for a weekly dose of expert interviews, insider tips, and engaging discussions that will help you navigate the world of property in Western Australia like a pro. Get ready to discover the secrets to successful property buying in WA!

Information

  • Creator
    Peter Fletcher
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    48
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 The WA Property Q&A
  • Show Website
    The WA Property Q&A