Getting development approvals right can make or break your property project—yet it's where many developers stumble. This episode breaks down the approval maze, from development applications (DAs) to building approvals (BAs), so you know exactly what you're getting into.

We'll guide you through the key players you need on your team, when to bring them on board, and how to sequence everything properly. Plus, we'll reveal the most common bottlenecks that derail projects and how to avoid them.

We cover everything from straightforward subdivisions to complex multi-story developments, giving you the insider knowledge to navigate approvals with confidence. First-time developers and seasoned pros expanding their portfolio will both walk away with practical knowledge to master the approval process.

Episode Highlights

[03:45] Overview of the council approval process discussed in the episode
[04:50] Two core approvals explained: development (DA) and building (BA)
[05:20] Sub-permits that may be required: demolition, drainage, construction certificate
[06:00] Three key consultants for a small subdivision: surveyor, town planner, civil engineer
[06:45] Difference between a splitter and a two-lot subdivision
[08:10] What makes a good town planner—and why council relationships matter
[09:45] How to assess a planner’s experience with a specific council
[11:15] Understanding the difference between a surveyor and a consulting surveyor
[14:10] Typical DA timeframes—from 3 months to over 12 months depending on location
[15:50] How consultant teams grow with project complexity (duplex, townhouses, apartments)
[17:55] Consultants added at the building approval stage, including structural and hydraulic engineers
[19:30] The certifier’s role in coordinating all documents for building approval
[21:50] Consultant interdependencies and the impact of delays
[22:15] Building code reports and certifier responsibilities
[23:50] Role of the interior designer in selecting finishes and fittings
[27:15] Estimated timeframes for building approvals based on project type
[28:30] Fast-tracking: starting BA work before DA is formally issued
[31:10] Final advice: manage consultant timelines and prep documents before settlement

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Mindset can make or break your success in property development. In this episode, we’re diving into what it really takes to stay grounded, focused, and solution-oriented when the pressure hits.

From Bob’s $1 million court battle to student stories of procrastination and analysis paralysis, we talk openly about what can derail your journey—and how to stay mentally strong through the ups and downs. We also share practical tools to build resilience and confidence, so you can keep momentum when things don’t go to plan.

Episode Highlights

[00:39] Bob’s $300 fishing fail and why maintenance matters
[03:45] Why development is like a highway—fast stretches and speed bumps
[06:30] Bob’s early days in corporate and managing imposter feelings
[08:15] Taking on a 67-storey project with no prior corporate experience
[10:20] Mentorship and mindset shifts that kept Bob on track
[14:20] Stick to the plan, but allow for smart flexibility
[17:45] A costly retirement village appeal and how Bob kept going
[21:30] Five years of inaction can cost millions—why regret is a poor plan
[24:30] Overcoming paralysis by analysis and micro-managing tendencies
[27:40] Managing fear by breaking tasks into wins
[30:00] Where confidence comes from—and why trial-and-error won’t cut it
[32:50] Hilary’s practical tools to build a resilient mindset
[38:20] Traits of successful developers: positivity, discipline, self-investment
[39:59] The power of starting, even when things aren’t perfectly lined up

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Property investing and property development are two very different strategies—each with their own strengths, challenges, and outcomes. In this episode, we’re walking through the key differences between the two, sharing stories from our own journey and what we’ve seen across the industry.

We unpack what’s involved in each approach, how to know which one suits your current situation, and why combining both can be a powerful way to build wealth. Whether you’re looking for cashflow, long-term growth, or a mix of both, this episode will help you think more clearly about your next step.

Episode Highlights

[01:20] Bob’s advice: stop procrastinating and make a decision
[02:40] Hilary’s industrial project story: pulling the trigger changes everything
[04:00] Aussies love property—but what kind of strategy suits you?
[05:10] Why long-term growth is the backbone of investing
[07:30] How many properties do you need to retire?
[09:10] Easier finance and lower barriers with investment
[10:40] The catch: limited control and slower growth
[12:00] Vacancy rates and management headaches
[13:50] The WA property crash and what to learn from it
[15:00] Balancing capital growth and rental yield
[16:30] What happens when you hit the serviceability wall
[18:00] Property investing as a starter strategy
[19:05] Pros of development: higher margins and faster returns
[20:15] Built-in buffers and more control over the outcome
[22:05] The creative and exciting side of development
[24:00] Joint ventures—develop without your own capital
[25:30] Risk factors and the importance of proper education
[27:45] Why feasibility matters more than ever
[30:30] The best of both worlds: develop and hold
[34:00] How to use development to build a portfolio faster
[36:00] The magic formula: pay cost price, not retail
[39:00] What's faster—saving $250k or developing it?

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