“You need to know what’s happening from zoning right through to flight paths if you want to buy well.” – Cate Bakos

In this first episode of Street Secrets, Melbourne-based buyer’s agent Cate Bakos explains the factors that separate a smart purchase from a costly mistake in the city’s inner north and west.

With a background in chemistry and mortgage broking, Cate approaches property with a sharp, analytical eye. She breaks down how zoning changes, flight paths, and heritage overlays can impact a home’s value and livability. She also highlights the traps that catch new buyers—like cheap-looking properties that banks won’t finance, or contracts hiding red flags.

Drawing on more than 2,000 property deals, Cate shares real-world examples of what to avoid and what to look for, from Yarraville’s gentrification story to why one side of a street can be worth far less than the other.

If you’re planning to buy in Melbourne, or want to avoid expensive mistakes anywhere, this episode gives you the insider knowledge. Tune in to learn the street-level secrets that could save you thousands.

00:00 — Introduction

01:52 — Cate Bakos' Journey into Real Estate

03:20 — The Role of a Buyer's Agent

04:44 — Understanding Property Analysis

06:04 — Specializing in Melbourne's Inner West

09:00 — Navigating the Real Estate Market

10:37 — The Importance of Local Knowledge

23:25 — Building Relationships with Agents

28:44 — Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Cate Bakos is one of Melbourne’s most respected buyer’s agents, with more than 16 years of experience helping clients secure the right properties across the city’s Inner North and West. Starting her career in chemistry before moving into real estate sales and mortgage broking, Cate brings a unique mix of analytical skills and on-the-ground knowledge to every deal.

She has secured over 2,000 properties for clients and is known for her deep understanding of zoning laws, heritage overlays, and the local factors that make or break a property’s performance. Beyond transactions, Cate is a trusted advisor who guides buyers through the emotional and financial challenges of purchasing, always with honesty and a focus on long-term success.

• Business Webpage Link - https://www.catebakos.com.au/
• Phone - 03 7000 6026
• Mobile - 0422 638 362
• Email - cate@catebakos.com.au
• Socials:
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/catherinebakos/
• Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cate_bakos_property/
• Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/catebakosproperty/

• Business Webpage Link - https://www.alcove.com.au/
• Phone: 0489 913 227
• Email - hello@alcove.com.au
• Socials:
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/alcovemb
• Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/alcove.au

Enjoyed the podcast? Don't miss out on what's yet to come! Hit that subscription button, spread the word, and join us for more insightful