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ABOUT - FAQ

What professional background do you bring to your property work?

Before property, I served 10 years as a Senior Policy and Project Officer and Advisor for the Victorian Department of Education, leading projects on innovation, excellence, and whole-school improvement. I also taught senior school for 10 years, lectured at the University of Queensland, and conducted research for both the Queensland and Victorian Departments of Education.

What formal qualifications do you hold?

I hold a Bachelor’s degree, a Postgraduate Diploma, and a Master’s in Education. My specialist skills include research, analysis, communication, and strategic leadership — all of which I apply to the property search and buying process.

What’s your personal connection to North Queensland?

I first moved to Cairns in 1982 and attended local schools including Cairns West Primary, Trinity Beach Primary, Smithfield High, and Cairns High — where I later taught. My family has lived in the region for over 40 years, and I’ve personally spent over 22 years living across both Cairns and Townsville.

Have you relocated often?

Yes — more than 20 times across continents and countries, including England, the West Indies, Kenya, Tanzania, Cairns, Brisbane, London, Melbourne, and Townsville. This gives me first-hand insight into the challenges and opportunities of relocation.

How long have you been working exclusively for buyers in Cairns and Townsville?

I’ve been a full-time, exclusive, independent buyer’s agent in both cities since 2013, working only for buyers and never taking paid referrals as a matter of principle. While I have a strong local network, I never tie my loyalties to any single agency.

When did you first start buying property in North Queensland?

I bought my first investment property in Cairns in 1995, and became a serious investor in 2010. Since then, I’ve personally bought and renovated property in both Cairns and Townsville — including raising and building in underneath a Queenslander to create extended living space — and I successfully manage my own investment properties and AirBnB.

How is your approach different from other buyers agents?

Many agents focus on either lifestyle or investment. I bridge both. My clients aren’t just buying property—they’re making life transitions. I provide strategic clarity while keeping long-term lifestyle goals in sight.

I’ve bought property before—why use a buyer’s agent now?

Even seasoned buyers benefit from a second set of strategic eyes, especially in a region they don’t know well. I bring local insight, negotiation experience, and deep market research to protect your interests.

Do you work with out-of-town buyers?

Yes. Many of my clients are relocating from interstate or overseas. With over 20 personal relocations myself, I bring empathy and practical guidance to make your transition seamless and well-informed.

Are you experienced with strata and body corporate properties?

Yes. I’ve worked extensively with strata-titled and holiday apartments. I help clients navigate by-laws, fees, maintenance and sinking funds—areas that can significantly affect long-term ownership costs.

What types of clients do you typically work with?

I work with professionals, medical staff, defence personnel, educators, engineers, and retirees—people who understand the value of outsourcing this complex task to someone with the experience and strategic mindset to do it properly.

Do you work with first-home buyers?

Yes, many of my clients are first-home buyers—often professionals or couples relocating to North Queensland. I provide clear, strategic guidance through every step of the process to ensure they’re making informed, confident decisions.

Why should I choose NQ Buyers Agent?

With a strong background in research, education, and relocation, I offer a rare blend of analytical expertise and local insight. My clients are often highly educated professionals who want more than just a property—they want a well-considered decision. I bridge the gap between lifestyle aspirations and long-term strategic value.

Do you help remote or FIFO buyers?

Yes. I specialise in supporting buyers who can’t always be on the ground. Through detailed reporting, video walk-throughs, and local insight, I provide clarity and confidence from afar.

What makes you different from other buyers agents?

My strength lies in balancing both the science and the art of property. With a background in research, education, relocation, and lived experience, I bring strategic insight and emotional intelligence to each client’s journey.

Is your service suitable for retirees?

Many of my clients are relocating to North Queensland for lifestyle and climate in retirement. I help assess options, explore communities, and ensure confident decisions.

How do you combine lifestyle and investment goals?

I take a holistic approach that balances lifestyle dreams with strategic, future-focused decisions. Whether you’re downsizing, retiring, or relocating, I help you buy with both the head and heart.

How do you help clients relocating from interstate?

With 20+ personal relocations and a deep understanding of lifestyle change, I provide tailored support—from neighbourhood insights to property selection. I bridge the gap between vision and reality.

What’s your process like for people buying remotely?

I walk you through the entire journey, from suburb selection to settlement, with a focus on alignment. I don’t just send listings — I help you understand context, opportunity, and risk. I handle inspections, liaise with local agents, provide clear reports, and adapt to your preferred level of involvement. I also ensure nothing falls through the cracks — especially in high-pressure, unseen purchases.

Do you help with strata, holiday apartments, or body corporate matters?

Yes — I have extensive experience in strata-title and holiday letting properties, especially in Cairns and coastal North Queensland markets.
From insurance restrictions to sinking fund shortfalls, I dig deep into the body corporate records and compliance history of every apartment or holiday-let property I recommend. Many clients don’t realise how much variation exists in ongoing costs, rules, and liabilities. I make sure you don’t buy a future headache — or miss a great opportunity due to misunderstanding.

What makes your service different from other buyers agents in Cairns?

Most buyers agents focus on either investors or lifestyle buyers. I offer a rare blend: strategic property selection grounded in data and value, combined with a deeply personalised approach that understands lifestyle, family, and relocation needs. My background in science, English, education, and research enables me to translate complexity into clear options. For clients who want to outsource with confidence, I provide the clarity, diligence, and advocacy they need.

I’ve heard body corp issues can be risky. Do you help with that?

I interpret financials, flag red flags, and help you understand the real costs of ownership — including levies, maintenance obligations, and future sinking fund issues. My clients often say this part alone saved them thousands.

How is NQ Buyers Agent different from other buyers agents?

Where others may focus just on negotiation or market access, I offer a calm, intelligent process that educates and empowers. Clients value that they don’t just “get a property” — they get the right one, for the right reasons, with long-term thinking built in.

I want both lifestyle and good investment value — can I have both?

We explore zones that balance capital growth, strong infrastructure, rental appeal, and lifestyle features like breezes, schools, or walkability. This holistic approach means your property supports both your life today and your long-term goals.

I’m relocating to Cairns or Townsville — can a buyers agent really help?

From comparing suburbs you’ve never seen in person, to coordinating inspections, filtering options, and managing the practical logistics of buying remotely, I do more than secure a property — I help you land well. My clients feel supported, heard, and calm — even when the clock’s ticking.

How do you help first-time buyers or investors?

First-time buyers and investors need more than listings — they need guidance. I help you understand value, avoid hidden risks, and buy with confidence. Whether you’re purchasing from interstate, unfamiliar with the market, or unsure how to begin, I tailor my approach to your goals and timeline. I bring both strategic and personal insight, shaped by my own relocation and property journey.

Are you more investment-focused or lifestyle-focused?

Some buyers agents focus only on yield; others only on lifestyle. I understand that for many clients, the ideal property is both a home and a long-term asset. I bring a holistic approach that blends property research, future-proofing, lifestyle fit, and local nuance — helping you buy well today, and for years to come.

What makes your relocation expertise different?

Relocating isn’t just about finding a property — it’s about navigating uncertainty, time pressure, and a new lifestyle. My experience as an educator, researcher, and someone who’s moved across the country many times gives me deep empathy and insight. I help you bridge the knowledge gap — from suburb feel to infrastructure — with practical support and strategic advice tailored to your situation.

How is your service different from other buyers agents in North Queensland?

My background in education, research, and analysis means I bring structure and clarity to the buying process. I’m not just about the deal — I’m about helping you make smart, informed, future-proof decisions. Many agents specialise in investors or locals. I work with people who need a trusted partner on the ground — someone who understands both the data and the human factors.

Do you work with local upgraders too?

My service is especially valuable for people with a gap to bridge — relocating professionals, time-poor executives, or first-time buyers. Many locals who’ve bought before may not need this level of support. I focus where I can add the most value: when clarity, confidence, and expert insight are essential.

Is your service suitable for downsizers or early retirees?

North Queensland is attracting a growing number of professionals in their 50s and 60s — often downsizing, semi-retiring, or moving for lifestyle. I help these clients make strategic decisions that reflect both personal and financial goals. From choosing the right suburb to future-proofing your asset, my service is tailored to your stage in life and what matters most.

Can you help with buying sight-unseen?

Sight-unseen purchases require more than just photos. I offer in-depth suburb insights, walk-through videos, and honest appraisals — not just of the property, but the street, neighbours, and local feel. I flag red flags others miss. From virtual inspections to contract reviews, I’m your eyes and advocate on the ground. You’ll never feel like you’re buying blind.

Do you work with buyers relocating from interstate?

I work extensively with clients relocating from Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, and regional areas. Each client receives suburb overviews, video walk-throughs, lifestyle match advice, and detailed market analysis. I guide you through the property search, purchase, and settlement remotely — while helping you feel genuinely connected to your decision. My goal is to remove guesswork and ensure your move is grounded in clarity and confidence.

What kind of properties do you specialise in?

I specialise in established houses in livable, flood-safe suburbs; boutique units with solid rental history; and lifestyle properties with strong fundamentals. I avoid high-rise apartments and off-the-plan developments, which often underperform in this region. My focus is on future-proof properties that offer both lifestyle value and long-term resilience — even if the market shifts.

How do I know your advice is truly independent?

Unlike some property advisors or ‘free’ buyers agents, I don’t accept kickbacks or commissions from sellers, developers, or builders. My loyalty is to my clients only. I’m not here to push stock — I’m here to find the best fit for your goals. That means unbiased advice, transparent analysis, and advocacy you can trust.

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