26 and Sunny: Recent Episodes

Cat

A podcast to help you buy, sell and live well on Sydney's Northern Beaches. Featuring interviews with local real estate experts, architects, builders, planners and designers to uncover the latest trends and dynamics on the beaches. Plus chats with true locals to find out what they love about Northern Beaches living. Hosted by Nick Freeman and Cat Denney.

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Ever wondered what happens if your home is so badly damaged by an accident that you have to move out? Who pays for your accomodation? Where will it be? And are there any guarantees it will be big enough for you and your family?

In this episode of the 26 and Sunny Podcast, we take a closer look at insurance in conversation with Josh Hawkins from Brookvale Insurance Brokers.

Whether you own a home, an apartment, an investment property or you are renting, Josh helps you understand what insurance you need (and don't need!) and what you'll be covered for in the event things go wrong.

Guest:
Josh Hawkins
Brookvale Insurance Brokers
https://bib.com.au/

Hosts:Nick Freeman, ADDVantage Property www.addvantageproperty.com.au
Cat Denney, Nook Money, www.nookmoney.com.au

Produced by Leah Stanistreet, Snappystreet Creative, www.snappystreetcreative.com.au

Artwork by Danielle Smith, D Smith Design, www.dsmith.design

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Beautiful Palm Beach on the northern-most tip of the Northern Beaches has much to boast about. The glorious waters of Pittwater on one side, the famous Palm Beach on the other, tropical landscapes, the Boathouse Cafe, Summer Bay stars on set and some of the Peninsula's most desirable properties.

Traditionally, Palm Beach has been populated by wealthy Sydneysiders who popped up to their holiday homes for the weekend. But thanks to COVID, the make-up of the area has changed significanty and many more people now permanently call Palm Beach home.

In this episode with Dennis Kennelly from LJ Hooker Palm Beach, we discover who is buying in Palm Beach, what draws them in and how much you can expect to pay for a place in Sydney's paradise.

Guest:
Dennis Kennelly
LJ Hooker Palm Beach
https://denniskennelly.ljhooker.com.au

Hosts:Nick Freeman, ADDVantage Property www.addvantageproperty.com.au
Cat Denney, Nook Money, www.nookmoney.com.au

Produced by Leah Stanistreet, Snappystreet Creative, www.snappystreetcreative.com.au

Artwork by Danielle Smith, D Smith Design, www.dsmith.design

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With its long stretch of beaches, you'd be forgiven for thinking the Northern Beaches doesn't have any bushfire risk. But in actual fact a large portion of the LGA is covered in bush and many homes fall into bushfire risk zones.

Building a property in a bushfire zone comes with a unique set of requirements that can push up building costs and build times.

In this episode of the 26 and Sunny Podcast, we speak with Catherine Ryland from CR Bushfire about the risks and implications of building in a bushfire zone depending on the level of threat. Find out how it will affect your build, how much it will cost and when you should order a bushfire report if you're shopping for property on the Beaches.

Guest:
Catherine Ryland
https://www.crbushfire.com.au/

Hosts:Nick Freeman, ADDVantage Property www.addvantageproperty.com.au
Cat Denney, Nook Money, www.nookmoney.com.au

Produced by Leah Stanistreet, Snappystreet Creative, www.snappystreetcreative.com.au

Artwork by Danielle Smith, D Smith Design, www.dsmith.design

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If you're looking for a place on the Northern Beaches that offers a laid back beach vibe but with a bit of bustle to keep life interesting, then Dee Why should be high on your list of options.

At the heart of Dee Why is its coastal playground - a 1.7km of beach that stretches from Dee Why to Long Reef with a tiered promenade and rock pool at one end and rugged red rocks and expansive surf at the other. And, with its multiple shopping precincts and access to the B-Line bus, it's no wonder Dee Why is popular with families, couples and singles alike.

In this episode of the 26 and Sunny Podcast, we speak with Angelo Goutzios from Doyle Spillane to find out how Dee Why has changed over the years and what the suburb offers today.

Guest:
Angelo Goutzios
Doyle Spillane
www.doylespillane.com.au/team/angelo-goutzios

Hosts:Nick Freeman, ADDVantage Property www.addvantageproperty.com.au
Cat Denney, Nook Money, www.nookmoney.com.au

Produced by Leah Stanistreet, Snappystreet Creative, www.snappystreetcreative.com.au

Artwork by Danielle Smith, D Smith Design, www.dsmith.design

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If you're looking to renovate your home or build a new one, one of the first things you'll need to decide is whether to use an architect or a draftsperson.

Both are skilled in drawing up house plans, but which one is right for your project? With different skill sets and fee levels, it's important to choose the right one.

In this episode of the 26 and Sunny Podcast, we speak with local architect Andrea Costi from Just Architects about the role of an architect in designing a seamless home from inside to out. Find out exactly what architects do, how to choose one and how to keep costs down on your build.

Guest:
Andrea Costi
andrea@justarchitects.com.au
https://justarchitects.com.au/

Hosts:Nick Freeman, ADDVantage Property www.addvantageproperty.com.au
Cat Denney, Nook Money, www.nookmoney.com.au

Produced by Leah Stanistreet, Snappystreet Creative, www.snappystreetcreative.com.au

Artwork by Danielle Smith, D Smith Design, www.dsmith.design

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We've all heard of selling agents and many of us are aware of buyer's agents. But what about vendor advocates?

What do they do? Who do they help? And most importantly, do you need one if you're selling your home on the Northern Beaches?

In this episode of the 26 and Sunny Podcast, we speak with Anthony Butler from Anthony James about the role of a vendor's advocate and how they can help you get the best outcome for your property sale.

Find out when to engage one, how much you'll pay (hint - it's free!) and how they get involved in the process.

Guest:
Anthony Butler
0414 736 061
https://anthonyjames.au/

Hosts:Nick Freeman, ADDVantage Property www.addvantageproperty.com.au
Cat Denney, Nook Money, www.nookmoney.com.au

Produced by Leah Stanistreet, Snappystreet Creative, www.snappystreetcreative.com.au

Artwork by Danielle Smith, D Smith Design, www.dsmith.design

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When you think of life on the Northern Beaches, you think of stunning water views, tree-lined streets, cute cafes and a relaxed, family vibe. Balgowlah, on the southern end of the peninsular, has all this and more.

A haven for families, it offers highly sought-after schools, a strong community spirit, sports fields, lush green spaces and a short, easy commute to the city. And with the Stockland Centre at its heart and Manly down the road, life is pretty good in Balgowlah.

In this episode of the 26 and Sunny Podcast, we dive into the suburb in conversation with Angus White from Whitehouse Real Estate.

Guest:
Angus White
Principal & Director of Sales
Whitehouse Real Estate
https://www.whitehouserealestate.com.au/

Northern Beaches Tunnel:
https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/projects/current-projects/western-harbour-tunnel-warringah-freeway-upgrade-and-beaches-link

Hosts:Nick Freeman, ADDVantage Property www.addvantageproperty.com.au
Cat Denney, Nook Money, www.nookmoney.com.au

Produced by Leah Stanistreet, Snappystreet Creative, www.snappystreetcreative.com.au

Artwork by Danielle Smith, D Smith Design, www.dsmith.design

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The real estate market is full of jargon! Auction, private treaty, off market, contracts, 66W, Dutch auctions, cooling off periods - the list goes on!

In this episode of the 26 and Sunny podcast, co-host Nick Freeman takes us through the ins and outs of selling strategies. Find out what's involved and how to navigate each one successfully as you look for property on the Beaches.

Guest:
Nick Freeman
Addvantage Property
www.addvantageproperty.com.au

Hosts:Nick Freeman, ADDVantage Property www.addvantageproperty.com.au
Cat Denney, Nook Money, www.nookmoney.com.au

Produced by Leah Stanistreet, Snappystreet Creative, www.snappystreetcreative.com.au

Artwork by Danielle Smith, D Smith Design, www.dsmith.design

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If you're considering investing in real estate on the Northern Beaches, you may immediately think of residential properties like apartments. But what about the opportunity offered by commercial real estate?

In this episode of the 26 & Sunny Podcast, we chat with Clarke & Humel's Michael Burgio about the reasons why investing in commercial property may be a better option than residential property and how it can diversify your portfolio.

Find out how the returns compare to residential property, the pros and cons involved, how much you can expect to pay and how to get the most from your investment.

Guest

Michael Burgio
Commercial & Project Sales and Leasing Agent
Clarke and Humel Property

O 02 9977 3300
M 0430 344 700
E michael.burgio@clarkeandhumel.com.au
W clarkeandhumel.com.au

Handy Links
https://www.commercialrealestate.com.au/
https://www.realcommercial.com.au/

Hosts:Nick Freeman, ADDVantage Property www.addvantageproperty.com.au
Cat Denney, Nook Money, www.nookmoney.com.au

Produced by Leah Stanistreet, Snappystreet Creative, www.snappystreetcreative.com.au

Artwork by Danielle Smith, D Smith Design, www.dsmith.design

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Just how important is landscaping to a property? Does it add much value when it comes time to sell? How much should you spend? And are there any ways to save money on your project?

In this episode of the 26 and Sunny podcast, we chat with local landscaper Greg Norton from Mandara Landscapes to unpack everything you need to know about designing, constructing and perfecting your outdoor spaces.

Qualified in landscape construction and design, Greg has a wealth of knowledge and insights to share. Find out what materials are in vogue, whether man-made products are right for you and when you need to get Council approval for your plans.

Guest:
Greg Norton
Mandara Landscapes
gregrnorton@gmail.com
https://mandaralandscapes.wordpress.com/

Hosts:Nick Freeman, ADDVantage Property www.addvantageproperty.com.au
Cat Denney, Nook Money, www.nookmoney.com.au

Produced by Leah Stanistreet, Snappystreet Creative, www.snappystreetcreative.com.au

Artwork by Danielle Smith, D Smith Design, www.dsmith.design

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Mona Vale has long been favoured by downsizers and families alike thanks to its thriving village, wide variety of housing options and transport links. Plus, who can overlook the advantage of having a gorgeous beach on one side and the glorious waters of Pittwater on the other.

In recent times, Mona Vale has undergone some important changes, most notably the widening of Mona Vale Road which improves access to the Northern Suburbs of Sydney. There is also talk of council plans to revisit the town centre to accomodate more housing and commercial property.

In this episode of the 26 and Sunny Podcast, we chat with Ben Spackman, Principal from Raine & Horne Mona Vale, to understand the changing face of Mona Vale.

Guest:Ben Spackman
Principal
Raine & Horne Mona Vale
https://www.raineandhorne.com.au/monavale

Handy links:Mona Vale Road Upgrade: https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/projects/current-projects/mona-vale-road-upgrade
Mona Vale Place Plan: https://yoursay.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/my-place-mona-vale

Hosts:Nick Freeman, ADDVantage Property www.addvantageproperty.com.au
Cat Denney, Nook Money, www.nookmoney.com.au

Produced by Leah Stanistreet, Snappystreet Creative, www.snappystreetcreative.com.au

Artwork by Danielle Smith, D Smith Design, www.dsmith.design

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Media channels right now seem to be fixated on something called the 'fixed rate mortgage cliff' but just what is it and do we need to be worried?

In this episode of the 26 and Sunny Podcast, our own Cat Denney from Nook Money takes us through the current interest rate environment and what it means for your loan repayments.

Find out whether you're at risk and, if so, what you can be doing now to prepare for the future.

Guest:
Cat Denney
Mortgage Broker
Nook Money

www.nookmoney.com.au

Hosts:Nick Freeman, ADDVantage Property www.addvantageproperty.com.au
Cat Denney, Nook Money, www.nookmoney.com.au

Produced by Leah Stanistreet, Snappystreet Creative, www.snappystreetcreative.com.au

Artwork by Danielle Smith, D Smith Design, www.dsmith.design

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On first glance, Brookvale appears to be the industrial and commercial mecca of the Northern Beaches. And whilst this is undoubtedly a prominent feature of the suburb, diving a little deeper exposes a rich and thriving arts and entertainment community with a growing cluster of micro breweries, artisans, coffee producers and more.

But 'Brookie' (as it's known to the locals) is looking a little tired and in need of some love, which is why Northern Beaches Council has released a new development proposal for the area.

In this episode, we dive into the 'new Brookie' with Andrew Pigott from Northern Beaches Council. We take a look at the vision for the area and what it will mean in terms of jobs, homes, industry and open spaces for people on the Peninsular.

Guest:
Andrew Pigott
Executive Manager of the Strategic & Place Planning Team
Northern Beaches Council

https://yoursay.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/brookvale-structure-plan

Hosts:Nick Freeman, ADDVantage Property www.addvantageproperty.com.au
Cat Denney, Nook Money, www.nookmoney.com.au

Produced by Leah Stanistreet, Snappystreet Creative, www.snappystreetcreative.com.au

Artwork by Danielle Smith, D Smith Design, www.dsmith.design

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We've all heard DA horror stories. Plans that couldn't get approved, disputes with neighbours over the smallest details, extensive delays and cost blowouts. But did you know there is a way to navigate the DA process with far less stress?

In this episode of the 26 and Sunny podcast, hosts Nick Freeman and Cat Denney chat with Northern Beaches local and expert town planner Dave Moody from Northern Development Assessment to uncover the secret to a successful DA application.

Guest:
Dave Moody
Northern Development Assessment
https://www.nda.live/

Prefer to read the blog? Head on over here.

IMPORTANT NOTE: The 26 and Sunny team would like to note and apologise for an error in this episode. We incorrectly stated that Dave Moody used to be a Private Certifier. We should have stated that he was previously involved in private certification work (but was not a private certifier himself).

Hosts:Nick Freeman, ADDVantage Property www.addvantageproperty.com.au
Cat Denney, Nook Money, www.nookmoney.com.au

Produced by Leah Stanistreet, Snappystreet Creative, www.snappystreetcreative.com.au

Artwork by Danielle Smith, D Smith Design, www.dsmith.design

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Arguably the most famous suburb on the Northern Beaches, Manly is often seen as the north-side's answer to Bondi Beach. And whilst both are busy, bustling beachside suburbs, they are by no means carbon copies.

Whilst Bondi has show and glitz, Manly has a more laid-back, local vibe. Combine this with an awesome selection of restaurants, bars, shopping, a vibing harbour and beautiful beach, and it doesn't get much better than Manly.

To find out more about who lives in Manly, the types of properties on offer and how much you can expect to pay for a little piece of paradise, 26 and Sunny sat down with leading Manly agent Adam Moore from Stone Real Estate.

Guest:
Adam Moore
Stone Real Estate
https://www.stonerealestate.com.au/stone-manly/meet-team/adam-moore/

Prefer to read the article? Check it out here

Hosts:Nick Freeman, ADDVantage Property www.addvantageproperty.com.au
Cat Denney, Nook Money, www.nookmoney.com.au

Produced by Leah Stanistreet, Snappystreet Creative, www.snappystreetcreative.com.au

Artwork by Danielle Smith, D Smith Design, www.dsmith.design

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Did you know that Narraweena used to be colloquially known as "criminal hill"? That it is home to a vibrant Italian community? Or that it is now considered one of the most stable real estate markets in the country? 

Narraweena is a suburb that is full of surprises which we unpack in this interview with Matt Nicastri from Cunninghams. Local boy Matt shares his insights on the Narraweena he grew up in, how it has changed over the years and what it offers for families living in the area today. 

Guest:
Matt Nicastri
Cunninghams Real Estate
https://www.cunninghamsre.com.au/matt-nicastri/

Hosts:Nick Freeman, ADDVantage Property www.addvantageproperty.com.au
Cat Denney, Nook Money, www.nookmoney.com.au

Produced by Leah Stanistreet, Snappystreet Creative, www.snappystreetcreative.com.au

Artwork by Danielle Smith, D Smith Design, www.dsmith.design

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Many people who move to the Northern Beaches find they never want to leave. So when the kids have left home and you want to downsize to something smaller, it's natural to look close to home. But what do you do when there isn't any suitable housing stock to buy?

In this episode with Amy Young from Laing & Simmons Avalon Beach, we explore the challenges and opportunities facing empty-nesters on the beaches. We look at the availability of suitable stock, canvas over 55s options and discuss how to manage your move with less stress.

Guest:
Amy Young
Laing & Simmons Avalon Beach
https://lsre.com.au/avalon/agents/amy-young/

Prefer to read? Check out the blog article here

Interesting articles & links:

  • Northern Beaches Council Local Housing Plan
  • Northern Beaches 2021 Census data
  • Northern Beaches population forecasts
  • Articles on rejected Northern Beaches retirement developments:
    • Article 1
    • Article 2

Hosts:Nick Freeman, ADDVantage Property www.addvantageproperty.com.au
Cat Denney, Nook Money, www.nookmoney.com.au

Produced by Leah Stanistreet, Snappystreet Creative, www.snappystreetcreative.com.au

Artwork by Danielle Smith, D Smith Design, www.dsmith.design

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Curl Curl and North Curly - or Curly to the locals - have a laid back charm that draws people in and keeps them from ever leaving. 

In this interview, we chat with area specialist Rob Killian from Belle Property about the local market, high-end properties in the area and what makes the sister-suburbs so special.

Guest:
Rob Killian
Belle Property Manly
https://www.belleproperty.com/manly-nsw/robert-killian

Hosts:Nick Freeman, ADDVantage Property www.addvantageproperty.com.au
Cat Denney, Nook Money, www.nookmoney.com.au

Produced by Leah Stanistreet, Snappystreet Creative, www.snappystreetcreative.com.au

Artwork by Danielle Smith, D Smith Design, www.dsmith.design

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This week on the podcast we chat with the talented Brianna Sandstrom from Brianna Sandstrom Design about the latest trends in Northern Beaches interior design. Find out which floor plans are trending, what fixtures and finishes are popular in 2022 and which styles are on their way out.

Guest:
Brianna Sandstrom
Brianna Sandstrom Design
https://www.instagram.com/briannasandstromdesign/ 

Hosts:
Nick Freeman, ADDVantage Property wwwaddvantagepropery.com.au
Cat Denney, Nook Money, www.nookmoney.com.au

Produced by Leah Stanistreet, Snappystreet Creative, www.snappystreetcreative.com.au

Artwork by Danielle Smith, D Smith Design, www.dsmith.design

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Collaroy is known for its gorgeous stretch of sand, beachfront properties and the apartments that line Pittwater Road. But when you dive a little deeper - like we did in this conversation with Jill Rafferty from McGrath Collaroy - you soon find there is more to Collaroy than meets the eye.

Guest:
Jill Raferty
McGrath Collaroy
https://www.mcgrath.com.au/agent/392-jill-rafferty

Prefer to read? Head on over to the blog interview with Jill: https://www.26andsunny.net.au/post/collaroy-a-tale-of-three-markets 

Hosts:
Nick Freeman, ADDVantage Property wwwaddvantagepropery.com.au
Cat Denney, Nook Money, www.nookmoney.com.au

Produced by Leah Stanistreet, Snappystreet Creative, www.snappystreetcreative.com.au

Artwork by Danielle Smith, D Smith Design, www.dsmith.design

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Forestville has experienced significant price growth in the past 12 months with top houses in the suburb reaching record prices in 2021. In this episode, we chat with local agent Sam Kearney from Raine & Horne to find out what drove prices up and how the market is fairing now in the wake of higher interest rates.

Guest:
Sam Kearney
Raine & Horne Forestville
M: 0451 299 918
E: sam.kearney@rhff.com.au
W: www.raineandhorne.com.au/forestville

Blog interview with Sam: https://www.26andsunny.net.au/post/the-rise-and-rise-of-family-friendly-forestville

Forestville market resources:
https://www.sbs.com.au/census-explorer-2021/index.html?lang=en&placeType=sal&places=forestville-%28nsw%29&topic=family-and-relationships

https://www.domain.com.au/suburb-profile/forestville-nsw-2087

https://www.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/community/place-making/discover-our-places/local-centres/forestville-town-centre-snapshot

Hosts:
Nick Freeman, ADDVantage Property wwwaddvantagepropery.com.au
Cat Denney, Nook Money, www.nookmoney.com.au

Produced by Leah Stanistreet, Snappystreet Creative, www.snappystreetcreative.com.au

Artwork by Danielle Smith, D Smith Design, www.dsmith.design

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26 and Sunny is a new podcast that takes a look at life and property on Sydney's Northern Beaches. Hosted by Nick Freeman and Cat Denney it uncovers inside tips on how to buy, sell and live well on the peninsular. Find out more at www.26andsunny.net.au

Hosts:
Nick Freeman, ADDVantage Property wwwaddvantagepropery.com.au
Cat Denney, Nook Money, www.nookmoney.com.au

Produced by Leah Stanistreet, Snappy Street Creative, www.snappystreet.com.au

Artwork by Danielle Smith, D Smith Design, www.dsmith.design