Melbourne Property Podcast™

Lindsay and Sky Hammer

Welcome to The Melbourne Property Podcast! Hosted by Melbourne-based buyer's advocates, Lindsay and Sky Hammer. Whether you’re an experienced investor or a first-time buyer, the Melbourne Property Podcast gives you exclusive insights to help you to make smarter choices and avoid costly mistakes. Each weekly episode dives into suburb highlights, market trends and expert tips. Start your property journey today by tuning in or learning more about us at melbournepropertypodcast.au

  1. 2d ago

    Did the Melbourne Apartment Market Just Get Interesting?

    Published: 19 July 2026 In this episode of the Melbourne Property Podcast, hosts Sky Hammer and Lindsay Hammer revisit one of the most debated topics in Melbourne property investing: apartments. While freestanding houses continue to be their preferred long-term investment, changing market conditions have prompted a fresh look at quality apartments as a cashflow strategy. With borrowing capacities reduced following the 2026 Federal Budget, higher interest rates and investors placing greater emphasis on serviceability, the conversation explores whether Melbourne apartments are beginning to offer compelling opportunities once again. Sky and Lindsay discuss what separates an investment-grade apartment from the rest of the market, why boutique older-style complexes often outperform high-density developments, and why buying below replacement cost could present long-term value for patient investors. The episode also examines the suburbs they're currently watching, the key data points they use to assess apartment markets, and the common mistakes investors make when chasing high rental yields without considering long-term capital growth. Using real case studies from South Yarra, Highett and Northcote, they demonstrate the type of opportunities emerging in today's market while explaining the due diligence required before purchasing an apartment. If you're an investor navigating tighter lending conditions or looking to improve cashflow without compromising on quality, this episode provides practical insights into when apartments may deserve a place in your investment strategy. Episode highlights include: • Why apartments are becoming more attractive in today's lending environment • The impact of the 2026 Federal Budget on investor strategy • Why cashflow is playing a bigger role in property investing • The apartment characteristics that make the best long-term investments • Boutique apartment blocks versus high-density developments Enjoying the podcast and want to support future episodes? You can buy us a coffee here: 👉 https://buymeacoffee.com/melbournepropertypodcast Never miss an episode. Hit SUBSCRIBE now. 🎧 New episodes drop weekly. 📺 Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MelbournePropertyPodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/themelbournepropertypodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melbournepropertypodcast/ Follow for on-the-ground insights, local expertise and practical perspectives from professionals operating in Melbourne's property market every day. Looking for tailored portfolio guidance? Arrange a complimentary call with Sky Hammer here: 👉 https://convergencebuyersagents.com.au/dc-podcast 🌐 Website: https://convergencebuyersagents.com.au Have a subject you would like explored? DM us, leave a comment, or email: 📩 media@convergencebuyersagents.com.au Disclaimer: All discussions are general in nature and should not be considered financial advice. Seek independent professional advice before making any financial decisions. All content across this podcast, website and associated channels remains the intellectual property of Convergence Buyer's Agents and may not be reproduced without written permission.

  2. Jul 12

    The Bluefield Boom- Why Big Blocks in Established Suburbs Are the Next Post-Budget Battleground

    Published: 13 July 2026 In this episode of the Melbourne Property Podcast, hosts Sky Hammer and Lindsay Hammer explore one of the most compelling emerging concepts in Australian property: Bluefield development. As Australia continues to grapple with a housing shortage, they examine why large blocks in established suburbs could become some of the most valuable assets in a post-2026 Federal Budget environment. Rather than focusing on traditional knock-down rebuild developments, the discussion introduces Bluefield housing – a gentler approach to increasing housing supply by adapting existing homes and adding additional dwellings while preserving neighbourhood character. The conversation explains how Bluefield development differs from greenfield, brownfield and greyfield development, why South Australia is leading the way with co-located housing, and what Victoria's current planning framework means for investors looking to position themselves for future opportunities. Sky and Lindsay also discuss why established suburbs need to accommodate more housing, how changing demographics are reshaping demand, and what sophisticated investors should consider when assessing properties with long-term development optionality. If you're an investor, homeowner or simply interested in the future of Australian housing, this episode offers practical insights into one of the most important planning and investment trends emerging across the country. Episode highlights include: • What Bluefield development is and why it matters • How Bluefield differs from greenfield, brownfield and greyfield development • Why Australia's housing shortage requires more than fringe land releases • The role established suburbs will play in meeting future housing demand • Why South Australia is leading Bluefield-style planning reform Enjoying the podcast and want to support future episodes? You can buy us a coffee here: 👉 https://buymeacoffee.com/melbournepropertypodcast Never miss an episode. Hit SUBSCRIBE now. 🎧 New episodes drop weekly. 📺 Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MelbournePropertyPodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/themelbournepropertypodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melbournepropertypodcast/ Follow for on-the-ground insights, local expertise and practical perspectives from professionals operating in Melbourne's property market every day. Looking for tailored portfolio guidance? Arrange a complimentary call with Sky Hammer here: 👉 https://convergencebuyersagents.com.au/dc-podcast 🌐 Website: https://convergencebuyersagents.com.au Have a subject you would like explored? DM us, leave a comment, or email: 📩 media@convergencebuyersagents.com.au Disclaimer: All discussions are general in nature and should not be considered financial advice. Seek independent professional advice before making any financial decisions. All content across this podcast, website and associated channels remains the intellectual property of Convergence Buyer's Agents and may not be reproduced without written permission.

  3. Jul 5

    June Market Update for Melbourne

    Published: 6 July 2026 In this episode of the Melbourne Property Podcast, hosts Sky Hammer and Lindsay Hammer unpack the latest developments shaping Melbourne's property market and the broader Australian housing landscape. They explore the national housing slowdown, with Melbourne and Sydney continuing to lead the downturn while other capital cities remain more resilient. The discussion covers falling sales volumes, softening lower-priced markets, and why a weaker market doesn't necessarily mean better buying conditions. Sky and Lindsay also dive into key economic updates, including the RBA's decision to hold the cash rate at 4.35%, ongoing population growth, tight rental vacancy rates, and the growing disconnect between housing demand and new supply. Drawing on conversations with real estate agents across Melbourne, they share on-the-ground insights into changing buyer behaviour, investor sentiment, auction conditions and where opportunities are emerging for well-prepared buyers. For investors, the episode examines why rental yields are becoming increasingly important, the challenges of finding positive cash flow properties, and how changing government policy could influence investor activity and market dynamics moving forward. If you're buying, investing, or simply trying to understand where Melbourne's property market is heading, this episode delivers practical insights and data-driven perspectives from professionals working in the market every day. Episode highlights include: • Melbourne and Sydney leading the national housing downturn • Lower-priced markets beginning to lose momentum • The RBA holding the cash rate at 4.35% and what it means for property • Tight rental vacancy rates and continued pressure on rents • Population growth and Australia's ongoing housing supply challenges • Government policy changes and potential impacts on investors • What Melbourne agents are seeing on the ground right now • Auction clearance rates and post-auction buying opportunities • Where new housing supply is being approved across Australia • Why investors are increasingly focused on rental yields and cash flow Enjoying the podcast and want to support future episodes? You can buy us a coffee here: 👉 https://buymeacoffee.com/melbournepropertypodcast Never miss an episode. Hit SUBSCRIBE now. 🎧 New episodes drop weekly. 📺 Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MelbournePropertyPodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/themelbournepropertypodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melbournepropertypodcast/ Follow for on-the-ground insights, local expertise and practical perspectives from professionals operating in the market every day. Looking for tailored portfolio guidance? Arrange a complimentary call with Sky Hammer here: 👉 https://convergencebuyersagents.com.au/dc-podcast 🌐 Website: https://convergencebuyersagents.com.au Have a subject you would like explored? DM us, leave a comment, or email: 📩 media@convergencebuyersagents.com.au Disclaimer: All discussions are general in nature and should not be considered financial advice. Seek independent professional advice before making any financial decisions. All content across this podcast, website and associated channels remains the intellectual property of Convergence Buyer's Agents and may not be reproduced without written permission.

  4. Jun 28

    Why Buyers Get Stuck - The Psychology Behind Property Decisions with Scott Baker

    Published: 29 June 2026 In this episode of the Melbourne Property Podcast, hosts Sky Hammer and Oisin Griffiths are joined by mortgage broker Scott Baker from Toast Finance to explore the psychology behind property decisions and why so many buyers become stuck during the purchasing process. They discuss how fear, uncertainty and decision fatigue can influence buyers, particularly in the wake of the 2026 Federal Budget changes. The conversation explores the balance between emotional and strategic decision making, and why finance should be viewed as part of a broader property strategy rather than simply securing loan approval. Scott also shares the common warning signs he sees before property deals fall over, along with practical advice on borrowing capacity, lender expectations and building a long term finance strategy. Episode highlights include: • How fear and decision fatigue affect property buyers• The impact of the 2026 Federal Budget on borrowing capacity• Balancing emotional decisions with long term strategy• Common reasons property deals fall over before settlement• Scott Baker's Blue Sky Strategy for building long term financial success Want to connect with Scott or learn more about Toast Finance? Website: https://www.toastfinance.com.auInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/scott_thebroker_baker/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/scott.thebroker.baker/Email: scott@toastfinance.com.auPhone: 0447 882 611 Enjoying the podcast and want to support future episodes?You can buy us a coffee here:👉 https://buymeacoffee.com/melbournepropertypodcast Never miss an episode. Hit SUBSCRIBE now.🎧 New episodes drop weekly. 📺 Subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@MelbournePropertyPodcast Looking for tailored portfolio guidance?Arrange a complimentary call with Sky Hammer here:👉 https://convergencebuyersagents.com.au/dc-podcast 🌐 Website:https://convergencebuyersagents.com.au Have a subject you would like explored?DM us, leave a comment, or email:📩 media@convergencebuyersagents.com.au Disclaimer:All discussions are general in nature and should not be considered financial advice. Seek independent professional advice before making any financial decisions. All content across this podcast, website and associated channels remains the intellectual property of Convergence Buyer’s Agents and may not be reproduced without written permission.

  5. Jun 24

    SMSF Property - The Time to Act is Now!

    Need help buying residential property under an SMSF structure ? If you have already set up your SMSF, are close to finance approval, or need to move quickly before these proposed new changes take effect, book a FREE discovery call directly with Sky here: https://convergencebuyersagents.com.au/dc-podcast Emergency Episode In this emergency episode of the Melbourne Property Podcast, Sky breaks down the latest proposed changes to SMSF property lending and what they may mean for investors looking to buy residential property through a self-managed super fund structure. On 23 June, the Federal Government agreed to support a Greens amendment to ban future limited recourse borrowing arrangements for residential property by superannuation funds. Essentially, this affects the lending structure that allows SMSFs to borrow to buy residential property. The government statement says the change applies to future arrangements, so if you've already purchased this shouldn't apply to you.   Sky explains why this matters, who may still have a window to act, and why urgency should not be confused with rushing into the wrong asset. This episode covers: What has been announced around SMSF residential property borrowingWhy limited recourse borrowing arrangements matter for SMSF investorsWhy existing SMSF property owners appear to be protectedThe potential timing window for buyers who are already set up and readyWhy SMSF property can be tax effective, but is not suitable for everyoneThe importance of proper financial, tax, legal and lending adviceWhy buyers should still apply full due diligence before purchasingHow Convergence Buyers Agents may assist eligible SMSF clients who are ready to proceed Sky also outlines a short term offer for eligible SMSF clients who are genuinely ready to buy. The standard fee remains unchanged, but the upfront engagement fee will be refunded if Convergence is unable to secure a suitable property in time. This is not about panic buying. It is about acting quickly, strategically and with the right advice around you. Book your free discovery call with Sky:https://convergencebuyersagents.com.au/dc-podcast

  6. Jun 21

    The Biggest Lies & Property Misconceptions

    Published: 22 June 2026 In this episode of the Melbourne Property Podcast, hosts Sky and Lindsay tackle some of the biggest myths, misconceptions and misleading advice circulating in the Australian property market. From building inspections and off market properties to rental yields, negative gearing and development projects, they separate fact from fiction and explain why many commonly repeated property beliefs can lead buyers and investors astray. The episode also explores the importance of long term thinking, understanding opportunity cost, and recognising that successful property investing requires more than simply following popular advice. If you are looking to make better property decisions, avoid costly mistakes and challenge some of the industry's most common assumptions, this episode provides practical, experience based insights. Episode highlights include: • Why newer homes do not always mean fewer problems• The importance of choosing the right building and pest inspector• Why buying closer to the CBD does not automatically deliver better growth• The difference between rental yield and long term capital growth• Common misconceptions about negative gearing, off market properties and development projects This episode is also supporting a cause that is close to our hearts. If you would like to support the fight against Motor Neurone Disease, please consider making a donation here: 👉 https://support.fightmnd.org.au/donate Enjoying the podcast and want to support future episodes?You can buy us a coffee here:👉 https://buymeacoffee.com/melbournepropertypodcast Never miss an episode. Hit SUBSCRIBE now.🎧 New episodes drop weekly. 📺 Subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@MelbournePropertyPodcast Looking for tailored portfolio guidance?Arrange a complimentary call with Sky Hammer here:👉 https://convergencebuyersagents.com.au/dc-podcast 🌐 Website:https://convergencebuyersagents.com.au Have a subject you would like explored?DM us, leave a comment, or email:📩 media@convergencebuyersagents.com.au Disclaimer:All discussions are general in nature and should not be considered financial advice. Seek independent professional advice before making any financial decisions. All content across this podcast, website and associated channels remains the intellectual property of Convergence Buyer’s Agents and may not be reproduced without written permission.

  7. Jun 14

    Ep 43: Geelong - Best Value Suburbs to Buy in 2026

    Published: 15 June 2026 In this episode of the Melbourne Property Podcast, hosts Sky and Lindsay are joined by Geelong buyer's agent Oisin Griffiths to break down the best value suburbs to buy in Geelong in 2026. With affordability pressures increasing and recent changes to property taxation impacting investor behaviour, they explore why Geelong continues to present compelling opportunities for buyers seeking capital growth, value add potential and strong long term fundamentals. The episode analyses eight established Geelong suburbs, comparing supply, demand, vacancy rates, owner occupier appeal and growth trends. Sky, Lindsay and Oisin also share on the ground insights into the pockets they like, common risks to be aware of and where they see the strongest opportunities emerging. If you are considering Geelong as part of your property investment strategy, this episode provides practical, data backed insights into some of the region's most attractive suburbs. Episode highlights include: • Why Geelong remains attractive for investors in 2026 • The suburbs offering the best balance of value and growth potential • Supply, vacancy and demand trends shaping the local market • Areas with granny flat, renovation and development potential • On the ground insights from a local Geelong buyer's agent Enjoying the podcast and want to support future episodes? You can buy us a coffee here: 👉 https://buymeacoffee.com/melbournepropertypodcast Never miss an episode. Hit SUBSCRIBE now. 🎧 New episodes drop weekly. 📺 Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MelbournePropertyPodcast Looking for tailored portfolio guidance? Arrange a complimentary call with Sky Hammer here: 👉 https://convergencebuyersagents.com.au/dc-podcast 🌐 Website: https://convergencebuyersagents.com.au Have a subject you would like explored? DM us, leave a comment, or email: 📩 media@convergencebuyersagents.com.au Disclaimer: All discussions are general in nature and should not be considered financial advice. Seek independent professional advice before making any financial decisions. All content across this podcast, website and associated channels remains the intellectual property of Convergence Buyer’s Agents and may not be reproduced without written permission.

  8. Jun 7

    Ep 42: May Market Update and 2026 Federal Budget Reforms

    Published: 8 June 2026 In this episode of the Melbourne Property Podcast, hosts Sky and Lindsay deliver the May Melbourne market update and unpack the implications of the 2026 Federal Budget for property investors. They discuss the proposed changes to negative gearing, capital gains tax and trust structures, exploring how these reforms may influence investor behaviour, property selection and portfolio strategy moving forward. The episode also examines current market conditions across Melbourne and Australia, including rising interest rates, affordability pressures, shifting buyer sentiment and emerging opportunities in a softer market. If you are an investor, homeowner or buyer looking to understand how recent policy changes and market trends could affect your property decisions, this episode provides practical, data backed insights. Episode highlights include: • Proposed negative gearing and capital gains tax changes explained• How investors are adapting their strategies post Budget• The impact of rising interest rates on buyer demand and affordability• Current Melbourne market conditions and growth trends• Why a buyer's market may create opportunities over the next 12 months Enjoying the podcast and want to support future episodes?You can buy us a coffee here:👉 https://buymeacoffee.com/melbournepropertypodcast Never miss an episode. Hit SUBSCRIBE now.🎧 New episodes drop weekly. 📺 Subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@MelbournePropertyPodcast Looking for tailored portfolio guidance?Arrange a complimentary call with Sky Hammer here:👉 https://convergencebuyersagents.com.au/dc-podcast 🌐 Website:https://convergencebuyersagents.com.au Have a subject you would like explored?DM us, leave a comment, or email:📩 media@convergencebuyersagents.com.au Disclaimer:All discussions are general in nature and should not be considered financial advice. Seek independent professional advice before making any financial decisions. All content across this podcast, website and associated channels remains the intellectual property of Convergence Buyer’s Agents and may not be reproduced without written permission.

About

Welcome to The Melbourne Property Podcast! Hosted by Melbourne-based buyer's advocates, Lindsay and Sky Hammer. Whether you’re an experienced investor or a first-time buyer, the Melbourne Property Podcast gives you exclusive insights to help you to make smarter choices and avoid costly mistakes. Each weekly episode dives into suburb highlights, market trends and expert tips. Start your property journey today by tuning in or learning more about us at melbournepropertypodcast.au

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