Sam Black Sessions

In this episode of Development Insights, we dive into one of the biggest challenges in property development — understanding the numbers. We discuss why a feasibility is never an exact science, but rather a calculated estimate built around comparable sales, construction pricing, experience, and risk management. From purchase price, build costs, council fees, and final resale values, there are alway...

In this episode, Sam and Ryan unpack the key traits that separate successful property developers from the rest. They dive into the importance of vision, persistence, risk management, attention to detail, and decisiveness, sharing real-world examples from their own development journeys. From finding sites and managing consultants to navigating setbacks and making fast decisions, they discuss the mi...

In this episode of Development Insight, Ryan Houston and Sam Black unpack the biggest mistakes developers make when underestimating a project. From build costs blowing out, hidden site costs, and builder variations, through to delays killing profit margins and poor sales strategies hurting the backend — they break down the real risks developers face. They also dive into the importance of early con...

This episode, we unpack the real side of construction finance — the wins, the risks, and where deals can fall over. We dive into: • Why valuations can make or break your project • The biggest mistake first-time developers make (going too early) • Fixed price vs cost-plus contracts — what actually works • How cost overruns happen (and why you NEED buffers) • What banks are really looking for — and...

Big shifts are happening across Newcastle and Lake Macquarie — and this episode dives straight into what’s coming and what it actually means on the ground. We unpack the approved Broadmeadow masterplan (20,000+ homes, mixed-use precinct, high-rise living), the reality of high-speed rail, and how infrastructure like this could completely reshape how people live, work, and invest along the east coas...

In this episode, we break down how rising oil prices are quietly driving up construction costs—and what that means for property investors and developers. From massive increases in materials like PVC to higher fuel and labour costs, builds are becoming more expensive almost overnight. That pressure is flowing through to buyers, impacting housing affordability and slowing down supply at a time when...

Sam Black is joined by Brendan Lowridge for a deep dive into what’s really happening with interest rates, inflation, and buyer sentiment right now. They unpack the RBA’s recent rate moves, why the market has shifted so quickly in just a couple of weeks, and how government spending and global conflict are feeding into the uncertainty. Brendan breaks down why modelling your repayments at different r...

In this episode of Development Insights, we discuss the risks and realities of engaging builders for new builds and developments, including fixed-price vs cost-plus contracts, hidden variations, and why turnkey quotes matter. We also unpack granny flat strategies, valuation risks, and how the right site selection can improve cash flow, resale value, and long-term growth. A practical conversation o...

In this episode, Sam sits down with Brendan Lowbridge to unpack real-life deals where valuations nearly killed the project. From off-market purchases coming in tens of thousands under value, to properties being classed as boarding houses due to multiple leases, the conversation dives into how lender panels, valuation types, and property use can make or break formal approval. They discuss desktop v...

Subdivision sites can look like gold on paper, but not every deal stacks up. In this episode of Development Insights, Sam and Ryan break down the reality behind corner blocks, battle-axe blocks, granny flats, and small developments, and explain why feasibility is everything. They discuss when it makes sense to keep the existing house, when to knock down and rebuild, and how build costs, buyer dema...

In this episode of Development Insights, Sam and Ryan dive into the different types of developers in today’s market and how risk appetite, strategy, and timing can completely change the way a project stacks up. From quick-turn developments to long-term land banking, they discuss why some buyers are willing to pay more, how rising prices in Newcastle are unlocking new opportunities, and the dangers...

In this episode of Money Chats with Brendan Lowbridge from Money Links, we unpack the recent shake-up in trust and company lending. Major banks have tightened policies, reduced options, and blown out approval times, leaving many investors caught off guard—even with pre-approvals in place. We break down why people buy in trusts, how servicing was previously assessed, what’s changed, and why non-ban...

In episode two of 2026, we dive deep into what it really means to be deal ready and how to consistently find quality property opportunities. We unpack having the right structure set up, finance organised, conveyancers and consultants on standby, and why relationships with agents give you a serious edge. We also break down the importance of specialising in one market, understanding supply and deman...

We’re back for 2026 and kicking things off in the new (almost finished) podcast studio with Ryan Houston for a deep dive into one of the biggest decisions developers face: volume builders vs custom builders. In this episode, we break down: • Why your end buyer should always come first and how that decision shapes everything from design to builder selection • The real differences between volume bui...

Sam Black and Brendan Lowbridge unpack SMSF

In this episode, Sam Black and Ryan Houston dive deep into the hidden costs that can blindside even experienced property developers. From surprise DA conditions to mine subsidence blowouts, they share real-life stories and practical lessons from projects across Newcastle. You’ll hear how a simple council requirement turned into a $15,000 curveball, why a developer’s $50k grouting allowance balloon...

In this episode, Sam Black sits down with Brendan Lowbridge from MoneyLinks to unpack how aspiring developers can make the leap from renovating to their first small-scale development, such as a duplex project. They explore why many investors—despite having strong equity positions—struggle to progress due to serviceability limits or lack of accessible capital, and how joint ventures (JVs) can be th...

In this episode of Development Insights, Sam Black and Ryan Houston reflect on two years of consistency—both in recording the podcast and in their own property businesses. They dive into how staying disciplined, even through uncertainty, has been the key driver of growth and bigger opportunities. Sam shares how stepping into the unknown can feel uncomfortable, but it’s also what pushes developers...

Hosts: Sam Black & Brendan Lowbridge In this episode of Money Chat, Sam and Brendan dive deep into the realities of financing small-scale property developments — from duplexes and triplexes to boutique townhomes. They unpack why the big banks often treat construction loans like home loans, the hurdles that creates for developers, and how non-bank lenders step in with more commercial, flexible...

In this episode of Development Insight, Sam Black and Ryan Houston dive into one of the most overlooked risks in property development—zoning changes. They unpack why proposed zoning shifts on development sites may not always be feasible, especially when councils and resources don’t align with developer expectations. The discussion highlights the importance of thorough due diligence, with a focus o...

In this episode, I sit down with Ryan Howston to unpack the real highs and lows of property development. From the importance of cash flow and buffers, to lessons learned through wins and losses, we dive deep into why scaling up requires more than just capital—it’s about strategy, longevity, and building a trusted brand. Whether you’re just starting with renos and granny flats or eyeing $10M+ proje...

An inside look at the “thrill of the chase” in property development — from spotting the perfect site to making smart, logical offers that beat emotional buyers without blowing your margins.

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of subdivisions and how savvy investors can manufacture equity and fast-track their portfolio growth. From deciding whether to buy in your personal name or through a trust or company, to understanding how to finance not just the purchase but also the renovation and subdivision costs — this is your complete guide. We unpack why subdividing first (rather...

Development Insight with Ryan Houston

Money Chats Ep 36 (with Brenden Lowbridge)