The Property Management Playbook
The Property Management Playbook is Castellan Consulting’s podcast where we dive into the key strategies, challenges, and success stories in the property management industry. Hosted by industry experts, it’s your go-to resource for mastering the Residential Tenancies Act and navigating VCAT with confidence.
Episodes
23 episodes
An Interview: Service in Property Management with Amy Blackburn
In this episode, host Andrew Nguyen sits down with Amy Blackburn for a thoughtful conversation about what great service really looks like in property management and how making a positive impact on others has shaped her career. With more than 20...
Season 2: Ep 7 - What is Section 91ZK?
In this episode, Rob and Andrew explore a quirky section of the Residential Tenancies Act - Section 91ZK. What is it? And when will you use it?This is a must-listen for property managers.
Season 2: Ep 6 - An Interview: Leadership in Property Management with Rachel Atkin from Harcourts
What does great leadership look like in today’s property management landscape—and how do you sustain it over the long term?In this episode, Andrew Nguyen sits down with Rachel Atkin from Harcourts, a seasoned industry leader with over tw...
Season 2: Ep 5 - The Difference Between Fair Wear and Tear and Damage
Where does fair wear and tear end… and damage begin?Andrew Nguyen and Robert Gallo explore this critical distinction and why it continues to create confusion across the industry.More importantly, they share how property managers c...
Season 2: Ep 4 - An Interview: Ray White International Property Manager of the Year - Eloise Sweatman
In this episode, host Andrew Nguyen sits down with Eloise Sweatman of Ray White Frankston to discuss her journey in property management and the experiences that have shaped her career.Eloise shares insights from the front line of the rea...
Season 2: Ep 3 - War Stories From Trenches of VCAT
In this episode, we dive into real tribunal and courtroom experiences that every practitioner can learn from. From the unwritten rules of courtroom etiquette to the surprising challenges of appearing in hearings via video conference, we explore...
Season 2: Ep 2 - Decoding the Portable Bond Scheme
In this episode, hosts Andrew Nguyen and Rob Gallo break down the legislative shifts hitting the Victorian rental market. We start with the November 2025 RTA updates, including the jump to 90-day notice periods, the total ban on rental bidding,...
Season 2: Ep 1 - The Use of AI in Property Management
In the episode, hosts Andrew Nguyen and Robert Gallo examine the critical boundaries of artificial intelligence within property management and the broader legal system. The discussion warns against the rising tide of irresponsible...
Season 1: Ep 14 - Section 91ZM and the "Five Strikes Rule"
In this episode of The Property Management Playbook, we dive deep into section 91ZM of the Residential Tenancies Act — the provision behind what many call the "five strikes" rule for rental arrears. But is it really five strikes and yo...
Season 1: Ep 13 - Prohibition on Letting Premises After Notice To Vacate
In this episode of The Property Management Playbook, hosts Andrew Nguyen and Robert Gallo delve into Section 91ZZH of the Residential Tenancies Act 1997 (VIC), which imposes a six-month restriction on re-letting propert...
Season 1: Ep 12 - Issuing Notices To Vacate For Repairs
This week on The Property Management Playbook, we’re tackling a topic that continues to trip up even experienced PMs — issuing Notices to Vacate for repairs. We break down the critical distinction between repairs and
Season 1: Ep 11 - A Chat With Julie Davis & Building Strong PM Teams
In our next episode, we’re joined by the brilliant Julie Davis, co-founder of Agent Dynamics, to explore how profiling can transform the way you build and lead high-performing property management teams.Julie shares insights...
SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT - Tickets Now Available For Our Reasonable and Proportionate Workshop
Tickets are not available on our website for our Reasonable & Proportionate Workshop, which is designed to give property managers the clarity, confidence, and practical skills needed to navigate VCAT successfully. Backed by real legal exper...
Season 1: Ep 10 - When to Apply to the Magistrates' Court?
In this episode of The Property Management Playbook, Andrew Nguyen and Robert Gallo dive into a critical yet often misunderstood topic—when to apply to the Magistrates' Court and how federal subject matter can impact property disputes....
Season 1: Ep 9 - What Happens When PMs Get It Wrong!
In this episode of The Property Management Playbook, we dive into what happens when property managers fail in their duty of care—and the serious consequences that can follow. We explore key legal obligations, what a breach of duty look...
Season 1: Ep 8 - A Chat with Sarah Cincotta and the Importance of Knowing PM Legislation
This week, we’re thrilled to welcome a very special guest: Sarah Cincotta, Founder of Rise with Sarah Cincotta and a renowned trainer of property management business development managers.Join us as we deep dive into an en...
Season 1: Ep 7 - Use of the Premises for Illegal Purposes and Merry Christmas!
In this episode of The Property Management Playbook, we explore the complexities of Section 91ZQ of the Residential Tenancies Act, which addresses the use of rental premises for illegal purposes. Andrew and Robert delve into the legal ...
Season 1: Ep 6 - New Rental Reforms and Rental Dispute Resolution Victoria
In this episode, we dive into the latest rental reforms in Victoria and explore the transformative impact these changes are having on the property management landscape. From understanding new renter and residential rental provider rights to unp...
Season 1: Ep 5 - Jafarpourasr v Tancevski & Whether Advertising Must Be Pro-Rated When Calculating Break Lease Fees
In this jam-packed episode of The Property Management Playbook, we tackle two pivotal legal issues shaping the property management landscape.Part 1: Jafarpourasr v TancevskiWe delve into Daly AsJ's landmark jud...
Season 1: Ep 4 - What is Section 344 of the Residential Tenancies Act? A Hidden Tool.
In this episode of The Property Management Playbook, we’re unpacking Section 344 of the Residential Tenancies Act—a lesser-known yet powerful tool for managing unapproved occupants in Victorian rental properties. Join us as we break do...
Season 1: Ep 3 - Asking for Written Reasons at VCAT
In this episode of The Property Management Playbook, Andrew Nguyen and Robert Gallo dive into the crucial topic of requesting written reasons at VCAT. Understanding why and how to request written reasons can be a game-changer for prope...
Season 1: Ep 2 - The Importance of Smith v Director of Housing and the Issuing of Notices
In the second episode of *The Property Management Playbook*, Andrew Nguyen and Robert Gallo dive into a landmark case that has shaped the landscape of tenancy law in Victoria—*Smith v Director of Housing*. This episode explores the facts and le...
Season 1: Ep 1 - The Creation of Castellan Consulting & What Makes a Good Advocate
In this inaugural episode of The Property Management Playbook, Andrew Nguyen and Robert Gallo discuss the journey behind the creation of Castellan Consulting and how it’s transforming property management consulting in Australia....