The PROPERTY DOCTORS, Sydney Australia Novak Properties

In this episode, Lisa and Billy discuss the curious and occasionally concerning phenomenon of "make-believe buyers"—individuals who present themselves as serious property purchasers but ultimately have no genuine capacity or intent to buy. These individuals appear across all price points, including multi-million-dollar properties, and can be surprisingly convincing at first, using local...

In this episode, Mark Novak and Josh Wapshott break down the sale of 20 Carter Road, Brookvale—a small freehold property originally purchased in 1993 for $295,000 and just sold for $2.26 million in 2025. The block included a four-bedroom house at the front and a warehouse at the rear, generating a combined rental income of approximately $92,000 per year. Despite its dated condition, the property’s...

In this Morning Minute episode, Michael Burgio and Mark Novak discuss major changes to development planning laws across NSW—specifically how the state government is overriding local councils to fast-track housing supply. The key focus is on the State Significant Development (SSD) pathway, which allows larger developments (over $75 million in build cost, roughly equating to 100+ units) to bypass lo...

In this episode, Mark Novak and Billy Drury discuss the concept of the “glide path” —a metaphor for gradually settling into major life transitions, especially in business and property ownership. Mark recounts a conversation with his daughter who is navigating new responsibilities like managing an investment property, renting her residence, and working full-time. He explains that just like an airpl...

In this candid and engaging conversation, Cleo—a property manager with 17 years of experience—shares her insights into the demanding yet rewarding world of property management and the realities of balancing work and motherhood. She explains how the role is centered around problem-solving, with property managers often only contacted when issues arise. Cleo emphasizes the value of experience and str...

The emotional journey of downsizing after decades in the same home presents unique challenges that go far beyond simple real estate transactions. What happens when cherished memories, comfortable routines, and fierce independence collide with the practical realities of aging? Our fascinating conversation with Josh Wapshot reveals the delicate art of helping long-term homeowners transition to their...

In this energetic and relatable conversation, the hosts reflect on the common sentiment of seeing others succeed in property investment and thinking, “Must be nice.” They aim to show that this level of success is achievable with the right mindset and strategy. The key lies in positioning yourself to act quickly on good opportunities, understanding vendor needs, targeting growth areas, and implemen...

In this candid and motivating conversation, the hosts address the common reaction people have when they see others succeed in real estate—“Must be nice”—and break down how everyday buyers can achieve similar success. They share personal anecdotes and insights from decades in the property business, explaining that quick equity gains are possible through strategies like buying below market value, ta...

In this conversation, Michael Burgio from Novak Properties outlines how to select the right agent to sell a development site. He explains that not all real estate agents are suited for this task, comparing them to different types of teachers—some specialize in residential properties, others in commercial, off-the-plan, or development sales. Burgio emphasizes the importance of choosing a commercial...

In this engaging conversation, the speakers explore the idea behind the phrase “must be nice” — the envy or curiosity sparked when others seem to succeed in property investment. They break down how regular people can achieve similar results by applying smart strategies such as buying below market value, targeting areas with growth potential, making cosmetic or structural upgrades, or leveraging of...

The conversation centers around the dynamics of neighbor relationships in rental properties, highlighting both the challenges and the positives. The speakers discuss how events like the State of Origin can lead to increased noise and interaction among neighbors, and share real-life scenarios where neighbors have shown concern—such as noticing uncollected packages or an absent tenant. They point ou...

In this detailed discussion, Michael Burgio addresses a growing trend of homeowners inquiring whether their property qualifies as a development site under recent zoning changes in NSW. He explains how to assess development potential by checking zoning (e.g., from R2 to R3), permissible building heights, and floor space ratio (FSR). Using a hypothetical 1,000 sqm block, he walks through calculating...

The conversation introduces the Z Marketing Strategy—a zero-dollar marketing approach designed to eliminate upfront advertising costs for property sellers. Developed in response to the industry's reliance on vendor-paid advertising (VPA), the strategy allows sellers to test the market without committing to costly digital exposure or leaving a digital footprint on real estate portals. Instead,...

In this detailed discussion from Morning Minutes , Michael Burgio and Josh Wapshott delve into the core differences between residential and commercial property investments. They explain that commercial properties typically offer higher rental yields and longer lease terms—sometimes up to 10–15 years—compared to residential leases, which are usually 6–12 months. This makes commercial assets attract...

The property market landscape across Sydney's Northern Beaches has undergone significant shifts in the first half of 2025, presenting both challenges and opportunities for buyers and sellers alike. What started as a rocky period has gradually stabilised, creating a unique market environment characterised by reduced stock levels and heightened buyer activity. With approximately 640-650 propert...

A stunning example of European craftsmanship has changed hands in one of Collaroy's most sought-after streets. The recent $3.3 million sale of 19 Coutts Crescent reveals what savvy buyers are willing to pay for solid construction, versatile living spaces, and prime Northern Beaches positioning. Built by a European bricklayer and his family in the 1970s, this double-brick home showcases except...

The mysterious world of high-end property selling tactics revealed! Ever wondered what those "Expression of Interest" or "Tender" labels really mean when you're browsing multi-million dollar listings? We're pulling back the curtain on these powerful but misunderstood sales methods that dominate the premium property market. Most homeowners never encounter these special...

Helping someone move from a home they've lived in for 42 years isn't just another property transaction—it's navigating a profound life transition filled with emotion, practical challenges, and family dynamics. Josh Wapshott takes us deep into the heart of what he calls "golden sales," those deeply rewarding moments helping long-term homeowners find their next perfect livin...

Ready to challenge everything you thought you knew about selling property? Forget what your friends have told you about waiting for spring – we're breaking down the real estate myths that could be costing you thousands. In this eye-opening discussion, Mark and Lisa Novak tackle the persistent belief that property should only be sold when gardens are blooming and the sun is shining. The realit...

Ready to take the leap into property ownership in 2025? The rules are changing, and they might just work in your favour.  This candid discussion cuts through the confusing jargon of government schemes to deliver a straightforward guide for first home buyers navigating Australia's property market. We unpack the current First Home Buyer Assistance Scheme (FBAS) in NSW, which offers substantial...

The commercial office market took an unprecedented hit during COVID, with property values on Sydney's Northern Beaches plummeting by a staggering 70-80%. This frank discussion strips away the usual real estate optimism to examine what became Australia's worst-performing asset class. We explore the fascinating divide between property owner responses during the crisis. Investors with multi...

Ever wonder why some properties sell for premium prices while seemingly identical ones struggle to find buyers? The answer often lies in a concept real estate professionals call "depth of market" – and it might be the most underappreciated factor in property pricing today. Depth of market refers to the absorption rate of properties in a specific area – literally how many units a suburb c...

Remember when a 12-month lease meant an ironclad commitment from both sides? Those days are rapidly disappearing in Australia's rental market. Property management veteran Cleo Whithear unpacks the dramatic shift happening with rental agreements nationwide. The traditional fixed-term lease – once considered essential for both landlords and tenants – is increasingly being viewed as unnecessary...

Ready to discover how savvy investors are making $100,000 in just 100 days? Our latest deep dive takes you inside the world of strategic off-the-plan property purchasing, focusing on a golden opportunity that's hiding in plain sight. We take you through the Havana project in Dee Why – a nearly-completed development that's offering remarkable value compared to current market prices. Throu...