With Melbourne property prices remaining subdued, the gap between rental costs and mortgage repayments has narrowed, which means first-time buyers, particularly renters, are finding homeownership more attractive and attainable.

This shift is leading to an unusual trend: renters are increasingly able to purchase their rented properties from their rental providers.

Historically, while common to express interest, such transactions rarely materialised. Now, we're observing a shift where these intentions are frequently turning into successful property purchases.

Jarrod is joined by Wakelin's property management expert and buyers' agent, Jordan Telfer, to explore this trend.

The property investment landscape is overflowing with opinions and commentary, some helpful, some a distraction and some downright misleading. At Rewarding Property Decisions, our mission is to cut through the noise and empower you with the knowledge you need to make truly rewarding property choices.

As we often say, “Investing in property makes sense, investing in the right property takes knowledge." And that's where we come in. We're constantly researching the latest trends and issues to keep you informed.

But we also know that everyone's property journey is unique. That's why we've been gathering your pressing property questions, to provide expert answers and insights to guide you on your property investment journey.

Beyond the well known municipal and lifestyle features that deservedly make Melbourne one of the world’s most livable cities, lie the hidden suburban gems and insider secrets that only locals know about.

We’re not talking about the well known suburb draw cards, like Edinburgh Gardens, Albert Park Lake or Lygon Street.

We're looking at the places that don’t typically make the tourist maps and ‘what’s hot lists.’

Jarrod takes a journey to some of Melbourne’s hidden gems and best kept secrets.

As the cost of living crisis continues to squeeze Victorians, many are seeking affordable housing and lifestyle alternatives in regional areas.

As a former country boy, it got Jarrod thinking - could the regional migration initially sparked by the COVID-19 pandemic be experiencing a second wave, this time caused by the cost of living crisis, and should investors take note?

Like other major cities around the world, Melbourne has undergone significant gentrification of once undesirable, working class suburbs.

But how has the city’s gentrification process taken shape over the decades, and what are the dynamics to consider as we look to the future?

Jarrod explores several key factors that drive Melbourne’s gentrification process, and understanding these can be crucial when deciding which suburbs to invest in.

Buying a property is a massive decision. It doesn't matter whether it's your first home, fifth or sixth investment property. The decision needs to be grounded in research and backed up by tangible evidence to ensure you’re putting your best foot forward.

Jarrod McCabe looks at the key research steps you need to take before you launch into the buying process.

As winter approaches, the property market tends to slow down. But that doesn't mean you should, if you’re looking to buy.

Jarrod looks at the key mistakes to avoid this winter. The best opportunities aren't tied to the season, but to your readiness to act.

Each generation’s economic and social experience is different, and goes a long way to shaping their property investment journey.

However, most agree their first property purchase was the hardest. This is especially true now, given the rapid price rises in recent years.

So is there still an appetite amongst the younger generation – ‘Gen Z’ – to enter the market.

To explore this Jarrod enlisted the expertise of Mark McCrindle, Demographer, social researcher, bestselling author, and TEDx speaker.