Shows
The PROPERTY DOCTORS, Sydney Australia Novak PropertiesEP. 1472 “I AM 4 AND MY MUMS A PROPERTY MANAGER”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...2025-07-1715 minThe PROPERTY DOCTORS, Sydney Australia Novak PropertiesEP. 1453 LEASES ARE FOR LOSERS times have changedRemember 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 baggage in today's rental landscape. This transformation reflects a broader societal move away from rigid contracts, mirroring trends we've seen with phone plans and gym memberships.What's driving this change? Recent legislation has strengthened tenant protections regardless of contract type, while creating a st...2025-06-1911 minThe PROPERTY DOCTORS, Sydney Australia Novak PropertiesEP. 1348 “Private vs Public: How Northern Beaches schools shift the market”The old saying that school choice "doesn't matter until it does" perfectly captures the educational dilemma facing Northern Beaches families today. When that moment arrives, it transforms into one of the most significant factors driving property decisions across the region.School zoning has evolved dramatically over the years, creating rigid geographical boundaries that determine educational access. Property manager Cleo Wichia shares remarkable stories of families renting homes with too few bedrooms or no parking—simply to secure an address within coveted school catchments like Curl Curl Public. Some parents go even further, paying for entire leases without ac...2025-06-1214 minThe PROPERTY DOCTORS, Sydney Australia Novak PropertiesEP. 1434 Naughty Tax Time for LandlordsTax time is looming for property investors, and the countdown to June 30th has officially begun. This timely discussion with expert property manager Cleo Ritchie uncovers the essential strategies that savvy landlords are implementing right now to maximise their tax benefits.The conversation dives deep into the critical importance of proper preparation, revealing why June represents the busiest period for property managers nationwide. Cleo explains how landlords should be finalizing maintenance work, collecting outstanding invoices, and ensuring tenant payments are up-to-date before the financial year concludes. She emphasizes the genuine financial impact of negative gearing benefits – showing ho...2025-06-0511 minThe PROPERTY DOCTORS, Sydney Australia Novak PropertiesEP. 1425 Salty Tenant Reviews: Revenge or Real Talk?Behind every one-star review lies a story—and in property management, that story is rarely as straightforward as it seems. In this eye-opening conversation with property management veteran Cleo Whithear, we peel back the layers on the complex relationship between tenant reviews, agency responses, and what really happens behind the scenes.For property managers, online reviews are a double-edged sword. While sales agents bask in the glow of positive feedback for record-breaking sales, property managers often face the wrath of tenants unhappy with bond disputes, property access, or tenancy terminations. As Cleo poignantly shares, "I take every re...2025-05-2214 minThe PROPERTY DOCTORS, Sydney Australia Novak PropertiesEP. 1420 Messy? No - It’s called Lived-In~Chic’ MR LANDLORDEver walked into a property you own after years of tenancy and felt shocked by its condition? That jarring moment when expectation meets reality is at the heart of today's discussion with property management expert Cleo Whithear.Navigating the delicate dance between landlord expectations and tenant realities requires finesse, fairness, and above all—reasonableness. As Cleo explains, property managers become mediators in these situations, helping landlords understand the difference between legitimate damage and normal wear and tear. After eight, ten, or even fifteen years of occupancy, properties naturally show signs of being lived in, and distinguishing between wh...2025-05-1512 minThe PROPERTY DOCTORS, Sydney Australia Novak PropertiesEP. 1415 AI replacing property managersThe rapid evolution of artificial intelligence is reshaping industries worldwide, and property management is no exception. Expert property manager Cleo Whithear takes us through the practical realities of implementing AI tools like ChatGPT in a bustling Northern Beaches real estate agency.Far from the dystopian future where Tesla robots malfunction beside human colleagues, today's AI implementation is focused on eliminating the administrative burdens that have traditionally bogged down property managers. Cleo shares how she leverages these tools to tackle tasks she's always disliked – analyzing complex strata notices to extract critical financial information for landlords, reconciling tenant ledgers to...2025-05-1211 minThe PROPERTY DOCTORS, Sydney Australia Novak PropertiesEP. 1404 “One day a nail tech. The next, managing $2M in real estate?”What's really at stake when you choose a property manager? According to expert Cleo, you're essentially handing over "a bag of cash" worth half a million to a million dollars—your valuable property investment—to someone you need to trust implicitly with your wealth building.In this enlightening conversation, Cleo draws on her 20 years of property management experience to reveal what separates career property managers from those using the role as a temporary stepping stone. She explains why dedication to the profession matters: "Property management has to be your choice. You have to want to do property mana...2025-04-2214 minThe PROPERTY DOCTORS, Sydney Australia Novak PropertiesEP.1377 BECOMING A GREAT PROPERTY MANAGER TAKES DEDICATIONUnlock the secrets of efficient property management with Cleo, a seasoned expert who reveals how technology and AI have revolutionized the industry landscape. From the dynamic Northern Beaches of Sydney to the challenges of new legislation, join us as Cleo shares her insider knowledge on navigating these changes while maintaining a passion for matching tenants with their perfect homes. Discover how the shift toward high-density living is shaping property management, and learn why staying updated is crucial in this ever-evolving field.Cleo's journey is a testament to the rewarding nature of property management. She offers invaluable advice...2025-02-2114 minThe PROPERTY DOCTORS, Sydney Australia Novak PropertiesEP. 1365 The 8th Wonder is Here—Don’t Fear, It’s Water…….?Discover why waterproofing is regarded as the "eighth wonder of the world" in property management with our remarkable guest, Cleo Withear. With a wealth of experience spanning over 15 years, Cleo sheds light on the intricacies of waterproofing, sharing her journey from navigating challenging rooftop scenarios to understanding the hefty costs associated with non-compliance and aging buildings. As the trend of house flipping continues to rise, Cleo explains why waterproofing has become a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of property management. Join us as we delve into practical advice on spotting potential waterproofing issues when purchasing property, such a...2025-01-2911 minThe PROPERTY DOCTORS, Sydney Australia Novak PropertiesEP. 1362 “Special levies aren’t so special—why strata costs rise for big repairs.”Unlock the secrets behind the often-dreaded special strata levies and discover why they're more crucial than you might think. Join us as we sit down with expert property manager Cleo, who sheds light on these essential financial tools used to fund major property upgrades and repairs. Whether it's significant construction projects or essential fire safety improvements, Cleo guides us through understanding the necessity and impact of these levies. We'll also clear up common misconceptions about strata funds and offer insights into financial options and potential reforms for owners struggling with these payments.Maintaining the value of strata...2025-01-2313 minThe PROPERTY DOCTORS, Sydney Australia Novak PropertiesEP. 1358 “35,000+ lightning strikes: A property manager’s challenge next day!”Prepare to gain a new perspective on property management amidst extreme weather challenges in our latest episode, featuring insights from Cleo Whithear, a seasoned expert in the field. Discover how Sydney's recent barrage of 35,000 lightning strikes is more than just a spectacle—it’s a wake-up call for property owners. We unpack the crucial steps landlords should take to fortify older properties, emphasizing the need for modernized electrical systems to better withstand such powerful storms. You'll also learn about the hidden costs, like potential damage from large trees, that can turn a storm into a landlord's nightmare, and why revi...2025-01-1511 minThe PROPERTY DOCTORS, Sydney Australia Novak PropertiesEP. 1351 “Some heroes left school unsure, joined Novak, and thrived as real estate stars!”Ever wondered how the landscapes of career choices have transformed over the years? Join us for an invigorating conversation with Cleo, a seasoned real estate agent with 16 years under her belt, who shares her journey from school hallways to property management corridors. Cleo's experience working with a youthful team injects her daily routine with vibrancy and continuous learning, offering a fresh perspective on how young energy can invigorate even the most experienced professionals. Listen as we explore the exhilarating yet nerve-wracking transition young people face today in choosing their career paths amidst a myriad of options compared to the...2024-12-0414 minThe PROPERTY DOCTORS, Sydney Australia Novak PropertiesEP. 1342 “Strata Living 2024: Smoke & Odors – What Tenants Can & Can’t Do”What happens when regulations intended to protect start feeling like overreach? Join us as we invite Cleo, a seasoned property manager with over 15 years of experience, to unpack the evolving landscape of New South Wales strata laws. Cleo shares her expert insights on the intricacies of smoke drift and odorous nuisances in unit communities, highlighting how bylaws and committee powers have transformed the tenant-landlord dynamic. We explore the growing tension between necessary regulations and their unintended consequences, like bizarre new laws requiring landlords to pay for lost keys. Cleo paints a vivid picture of the challenges faced by both...2024-11-2011 minThe PROPERTY DOCTORS, Sydney Australia Novak PropertiesEp.1328 Are older tenants better renters in Sydney? Expert manager Cleo weighs in.Is it true that older tenants make the best renters? Join us as we explore this intriguing question with Cleo Whithear, an expert property manager with a knack for matching tenants to homes perfectly. Cleo shares her invaluable insights on the unique dynamics of housing for those over 55, diving into how these renters often bring a rare mix of respect, commitment, and efficient communication to their living spaces. We'll discuss the delicate art of tenant profiling and how it aligns with landlords’ expectations, while also recognizing the fine line between preference and discrimination in housing.Cleo doesn't sh...2024-11-0613 minThe PROPERTY DOCTORS, Sydney Australia Novak PropertiesEP.1315 “Making a Splash in Rentals – Pools: Fun for Tenants, Work for Landlords!”Award-winning property manager Cleo joins us to unravel the complexities of rental properties with pools, particularly as we brace for what could be one of the hottest summers on record. Cleo brings her expertise to the table, sharing how the allure of a pool can significantly boost a property's appeal, especially among families. But the dream of poolside bliss comes with its own set of challenges—legislative hurdles, maintenance wrangles, safety regulations, and insurance headaches can quickly turn this luxury into a liability. Cleo's insights shine a light on how landlords and tenants can navigate these waters, balancing enjoyment wi...2024-10-1712 minThe PROPERTY DOCTORS, Sydney Australia Novak PropertiesEP. 1304 "Apple replaced Microsoft. You're the Microsoft—how did that happen?"Ever wondered if transitioning from Microsoft PCs to Apple Macs could shake up your work life? For Cleo, the shift wasn't just a simple change of hardware—it was a complete overhaul of her daily routine, met with mixed reactions from her colleagues. This episode peels back the layers of technological adaptation, especially for those in their 40s and 50s, who often find themselves wrestling with new systems and questioning their impact on efficiency. We also explore how tech innovations have revolutionized the real estate industry's property management, transforming routine tasks like inspections and leaving us pondering whether these ch...2024-09-2612 minThe PROPERTY DOCTORS, Sydney Australia Novak PropertiesEP.1296 STRUGGLING WITH STRATA PAYMENTS? YOUR NOT ALONE!What if the rising costs of strata levies could jeopardize your investment? Today, we tackle the financial strain facing property owners in Sydney's northern beaches, where levies for one-bedroom units have soared to around $1,200 per quarter and two-bedroom units to $1,500. Our exceptional property manager, Cleo, provides an insider's perspective on the root causes of these increases, such as essential building maintenance and compliance upgrades. She also dives into the compounded pressures landlords experience from additional expenses like water and council rates.Feeling the financial pinch from high strata levies? We offer crucial advice on managing these escalating...2024-09-1612 minThe PROPERTY DOCTORS, Sydney Australia Novak PropertiesEP. 1281 WHO STOLE MY COUNCIL PARKING STICKERS, TENANTS RIGHTS TO THEM :\Could a simple parking sticker really spark a tug-of-war between landlords and tenants? This episode uncovers the heated debates and surprising grey markets surrounding council sticker allocations. Join us with property manager extraordinaire Cleo Whithear as we dissect the high stakes of these seemingly trivial stickers. From their coveted benefits like free beach parking to the annual scramble to secure them, Cleo offers a behind-the-scenes look at the expectations, disputes, and logistical challenges involved. You’ll also be intrigued by the insider scoop on how these stickers are secretly traded on social media under code names.But th...2024-08-1509 minThe PROPERTY DOCTORS, Sydney Australia Novak PropertiesEP. 1277 "Discover Our Top 5 Powerful Tools to Secure Top tenants 4 Residential Rentals!"Ever wondered what the secret sauce is behind renting properties quickly and efficiently? This week, we're sitting down with Cleo, an expert property manager, who shares her behind-the-scenes experiences and the cutting-edge tools she uses to keep the real estate wheels turning smoothly. From onboarding new tenants and clients to managing two newly acquired real estate agencies, Cleo gives us an inside look at the fast-paced world of property management and the strategies that make it all happen.Discover the evolution of property rental from traditional newspaper ads to the latest digital innovations, and learn why a...2024-08-0814 minThe PROPERTY DOCTORS, Sydney Australia Novak PropertiesEP. 1275 ABANDONED GOODS !!! TENANTS TRASH OR TREASURE???Ever wondered what happens to abandoned goods when tenants leave them behind in rental properties? Join us as Cleo Whithear, an expert property manager, unravels the complex legal obligations tied to such scenarios. You'll learn about the essential steps property managers and landlords must take, including contacting tenants and obtaining an NCAT order before disposing of any belongings. Cleo's vivid storytelling, such as the case of a car with no number plates left in a garage, brings to life the hurdles of managing abandoned items and emphasizes the importance of adhering to legal procedures to prevent complications and ensure...2024-08-0711 minThe PROPERTY DOCTORS, Sydney Australia Novak PropertiesEP. 1273 … THE METER MAFIA… GAS,ENERGY,INTERNET…. BLOOD IN BLOOD OUT :)Ever wrestled with sinus troubles from gas heaters or hit a roadblock trying to connect utilities in your new apartment? Our latest episode promises to unravel these everyday frustrations, and more, with expert insights from Claire Wheatley. Discover how to navigate the maze of home gas energy management, from maintaining clean filters to ensuring proper ventilation, and learn why exclusive utility provider contracts could be adding to your stress.Cleo Whithear joins us to share her wisdom on tackling the often-overlooked complexities of property networks and utility setups. Hear real-life stories that highlight the importance of asking...2024-07-2514 minThe PROPERTY DOCTORS, Sydney Australia Novak PropertiesEP. 1269 Landlords and tenants: Is your agent's condition report letting you down? Here's why.What if you could transform the tedious task of property management into a streamlined and efficient process? Join us as Cleo opens up about her daily struggles with ingoing condition reports and the repetitive nature of her duties. We'll share the innovative strategies her office employs to make these tasks less daunting, and dive into the effects of school holidays on traffic patterns and home life, adding a touch of humor along the way.This episode doesn't just scratch the surface; we explore the real potential of technology in property management, from body cams to transcription software...2024-07-1813 minThe PROPERTY DOCTORS, Sydney Australia Novak PropertiesEP. 1265 **Championing the Home, Work, Life: Real Estate Legend Cleo Whithear - How Do Mums Do It?**Ever wondered how someone manages to juggle a high-stakes career with a bustling household? Meet Cleo Withear, our extraordinary guest on this episode of Novak News. Cleo, a powerhouse in property management, shares her secrets of managing 500 properties while also being a dedicated mother and wife. Learn how her professional skills seamlessly translate into her home life, and discover the immense value of having a strong support system, including role models at work and her indomitable spirit to meet every challenge head-on.Join us as we dive into the Thursday morning routines that define family life, with...2024-07-1111 minThe PROPERTY DOCTORS, Sydney Australia Novak PropertiesEP.1261 REAL ESTATE SIGNBOARD MAFIA “it’s a real thing ;/“What if your "For Sale" sign could tell a whole story? Join us in this hilarious and enlightening episode where we pull back the curtain on the world of real estate signage, featuring our special guest, Cleo. You'll hear about the astonishing evolution of these everyday boards, the hefty price tags they carry, and the cheeky "signage warfare" that erupts between competing agents. From stealing directionals to slyly swapping signs, this episode exposes the antics and high-stakes drama you never knew existed in real estate.Cleo shares some jaw-dropping anecdotes, including a memorable tale of an $8 million...2024-07-0414 minThe PROPERTY DOCTORS, Sydney Australia Novak PropertiesEP. 1257 SUNDAY GODS DAY SHHHH!!! SHOOSH??? NEIGHBOURHOODS GONE WILDIs Sunday still a sacred day of peace and quiet, or has it become just another opportunity to catch up on life's mounting chores? Join us as we explore this clash of contemporary and traditional values with Cleo, the astute manager of one of the largest rental portfolios on the northern beaches. Cleo sheds light on how the expectations for quiet Sundays have evolved, particularly focusing on the generational shift that now sees Sunday as a prime day for tasks like lawn mowing and car maintenance. Her unique perspective helps us understand how these changes are affecting relationships between...2024-06-2713 min