Some properties just feel... off. But if you don't know what to look for, it's easy to get swept up in the styling, the sales pitch, or the pressure to act fast. In this episode, we dive into the subtle (and not-so-subtle) red flags that first home buyers often miss—and how learning to trust your instincts, ask the right questions, and dig deeper can save you from costly mistakes.

Whether it's a beautifully renovated home hiding structural issues or an agent pushing urgency to cover a stale listing, we walk through the warning signs that should make you pause. This episode is packed with real-life stories and practical strategies to help you separate fact from fluff—and avoid buying with regret.
 
Here's what we cover:

🚩 The red flags agents won't mention

From underquoting and fake urgency to "lipstick-on-a-pig" renos, we unpack the tactics that create emotional pressure and cloud your judgment. We explore how to spot when something doesn't add up, and why the property that looks perfect on paper might still be all wrong for you.

🔍 How to spot a dodgy renovation

Not all renovations are created equal. We explain how to identify quick cosmetic fixes versus quality upgrades, and why missing documentation or a lack of transparency should raise serious concerns, especially if the agent tries to brush off your questions.

🧠 Gut instinct vs. emotional decision-making

That uneasy feeling you get during an inspection isn't just nerves—it's your brain picking up on red flags your conscious mind hasn't caught yet. But instinct alone isn't enough. We show you how to back up your gut with real research and process, so you don't walk away from a good deal—or fall into a bad one.

🛡️ How to ask the right questions—and what to do if you don't get answers

Sellers don't have to tell you everything, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't ask. We teach you the key questions to ask, who to ask them to, and what to do if you hit a wall. Because in property, silence can be a sign that something's being hidden.

By the end of this episode, you'll have a sharper eye for red flags, a stronger sense of what to trust, and a better understanding of how to protect yourself in a fast-moving, emotionally charged property market.

If you're a first home buyer who wants to buy with confidence—not confusion—this one's for you. Listen now and start building the mindset and skills that set smart buyers apart.
Episode Highlights:
[00:00] Welcome
[00:05] The Power of Gut Instinct
[02:13] Dodgy Tactics to Watch Out For
[04:00] Gut Check vs Emotion: How to Know the Difference 
[05:04] Agent Tricks: Fake Offers, Urgency & Underquoting 
[07:28] The Danger of Staging and Emotional Traps 
[08:40] Major Red Flags That Demand a Closer Look 
[10:22] Renovation Risks: When Pretty Doesn't Mean Quality 
[13:25] "Lipstick on a Pig" and Missing Disclosures 
[15:36] Real Buyer Horror Stories (and Close Calls) 
[18:13] Practical Tips to Stay Safe 
[21:03] How Our Course Helps You Buy with Confidence 
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Learn how to buy your first home without making avoidable mistakes.
  Co-Founders

Veronica Morgan & Meighan Wells 

Veronica & Meighan are both licensed real estate agents who exclusively help buyers. Together they have nearly 40 years experience as property professionals.

Veronica is principal of Sydney based Good Deeds Property Buyers and is also co-host of The Elephant in the Room property podcast as well as Location Location Location Australia on Foxtel and author of Auction Ready: how to buy property at auction even though you're scared s#!tless!

Meighan is the multi award winning principal of Brisbane based Property Pursuit, chairperson of the REIQ Buyers Agent Chapter & a regular media commentator.