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 structure, noting that much of her day operates on autopilot thanks to routines developed over years in the industry. She describes the importance of clear frameworks and setting boundaries both at work and at home, highlighting how these strategies help her juggle the many responsibilities she faces daily.

Cleo also opens up about her personal journey as a working mother, detailing how taking time off with her children and returning to work gradually helped her avoid feeling torn between roles. She stresses the necessity of honest conversations with employers about expectations and flexibility, and shares her “golden goose” lesson: letting go of perfection. Rather than striving for 100% in everything, she advises working mothers to focus on making small, manageable improvements and to accept that 80% is often enough. Her story is a mix of wisdom, practicality, and humour, offering encouragement to other parents navigating similar paths.

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 next chapter. We unpack the psychology behind resistance ("You're only going to take me out of here in a box") and the surprising sense of relief many experience once they've made the move ("Oh my God, thank God we did that").

Size concerns naturally dominate initial discussions, as clients worry about trading spacious family homes for apartment living. But there's so much more to consider: strata costs that seem daunting until compared with ongoing home maintenance expenses; the increasing importance of accessibility features as mobility decreases; and the thoughtful process of "future-proofing" new homes with modifications like replacing sharp handles with pull drawers.

Perhaps most interesting is why many seniors actively choose apartments over retirement villages. Asset protection plays a role, but equally important is the desire to maintain vibrant, independent living among diverse neighbors rather than age-segregated communities. And for couples, there's often the touching motivation to ensure the surviving partner won't face this challenging transition alone.

Connect with us to learn how we take a patient, educational approach to guiding downsizers through what may be their final home purchase. With the right support, downsizing can transform from a dreaded necessity to an exciting new chapter with less maintenance, greater accessibility, and a home that truly supports this important life stage.

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, targeting high-growth areas, cosmetic upgrades, and smart structural changes. A major emphasis is placed on mindset—having belief and confidence is often the biggest hurdle—and surrounding yourself with a strong support team including brokers, solicitors, and trusted advisors.

The discussion features a real-life example of a small 50-square-meter apartment purchased for just over $600,000, demonstrating how strategic modifications—like converting a study into a bedroom or reconfiguring a bathroom layout—can potentially add $100,000 in value for a modest $10,000 spend. They explain how the right floor plan and minor renovations can drastically increase resale value, with renderings and renovation ideas used to illustrate this. Ultimately, the hosts encourage listeners to act with confidence, build the right team, and seek out hidden opportunities that can turn modest property investments into substantial gains.