Not all great development sites come with a “development opportunity” sign on them. In this episode of the Property Mastermind Podcast, Hilary Saxton and Bob Andersen explore the hidden potential in everyday homes and blocks—those overlooked sites that could become profitable projects with the right eye and a little creativity.
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Episode Highlights:
[00:00] Introduction – What this episode is all about and who won this week’s book giveaway.
[02:38] Local council relaxations – How temporary zoning leniency can offer short-term development opportunities.
[05:38] Research tip – Check local planning approvals to see what others are doing.
[06:51] Large backyards and wide frontages – Why these may be more valuable than they look.
[09:41] Renovate or not? – When to update the front house or sell as is.
[12:10] Staging your project – Using one part of a site to fund another.
[14:55] Zoning impacts and lot size minimums – Why smaller lots may allow more than expected.
[16:14] Corner blocks and dual street access – Multiple frontages create flexible options.
[21:04] Granny flats and secondary dwellings – Extra value on land you already own.
[25:41] When slope works in your favour – Building into gradients and avoiding stormwater issues.
[28:48] Local development activity – What it can reveal (and what it can’t).
[31:20] Financial feasibilities and funding approvals – Why getting the numbers right matters for lenders too.
[33:00] Town planner insights – Why local expertise reveals more than the town plan.
[34:45] Choosing a development-friendly council – How to avoid your first project becoming a nightmare.
[36:02] Five questions to ask before buying a site – Simple ways to avoid costly mistakes.