
Hosted by Kylie Walker · EN

There’s a quiet shift happening in property management right now – and it’s the move away from transactional service toward something far more meaningful. In this thoughtful conversation, I’m joined by Jenny Lock from K & Lo Property Co, who shares why relationship-driven property management is becoming the future of our industry. Together, we unpack the impact of client experience, the importance of genuine connection, and why the small moments – the phone calls, the thoughtful touchpoints, the way people feel – are often what matter most in building long-term trust and loyalty. We also tackle one of the most controversial conversations currently circulating in property management: client poaching. It’s a topic layered with emotion, ethics, leadership, and accountability, and Jenny offers such a balanced and grounded perspective from both a business owner and property manager point of view. This conversation explores what really creates client loyalty, why culture and relationships inside agencies matter more than ever, and how business owners can build stronger retention through service, communication, and aligned leadership rather than fear or control. What I loved most about this discussion is how deeply it reinforces the idea that great property management isn’t built on volume, chaos, or constantly being reactive – it’s built on intentional systems, aligned values, and creating experiences that people genuinely remember. Jenny shares the strategies she’s implementing inside her new boutique agency to elevate both the owner and tenant experience, while also protecting her own wellbeing and avoiding the burnout so many in our industry are facing. If you’ve been craving a more human, thoughtful, and sustainable approach to property management, this conversation will leave you feeling inspired to rethink what’s possible. “I highly hold myself to values and ethics, and I think the real estate industry already has this bad reputation of not doing the right thing. I want to do the right thing and walk the walk and talk the talk.” - Jenny LockWe cover:Transitioning from transactional to relationship-focused property management.Importance of building genuine relationships with clients and tenants.Negative impact of transactional approaches on the industry’s reputation.Ethical considerations in client poaching within property management.Strategies for maintaining client relationships and loyalty.Enhancing customer experience through personalized services and communication.Role of technology and AI in supporting relationship-driven property management.Addressing burnout among property managers through quality-focused practices.Importance of personal development and aligning business practices with values.Encouragement for property managers to reconnect with clients and improve service quality.A big shout-out to our amazing podcast partner Ailo. Ailo is an Australian property management software and app designed to streamline communication and payments between property managers, owners, and tenants. It offers in-app chat, real-time rent tracking, and maintenance management, aiming to modernise property management and improve transparency for all parties.Book an Ailo Demo and get your Mecca Gift Card:http://ailo.io/tpmFollow Ailo:https://www.instagram.com/ailohq/Kylie’s Resources:Property Management Growth School: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/TPM-BDMSchool Digital Marketing School: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/digitalschool That Property Mum Courses: https://www.thatpropertymum.com.au/courses/ The PM Accelerate Membership: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/accelerate Book a Strategy Call with Kylie: https://calendly.com/kylie-tpm/coaching-call Kolmeo: https://kolmeo.com/ Find out about our Done for You Lead Generation - https://calendly.com/kylie-tpm/done-for-you-leads-discovery-call35 AI Prompts to help you Grow your Business on Social Media: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/35-prompts-to-grow-your-property-management-business-on-social-mediahttps://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/5-misktakes-replayDigital Marketing and AI Academyhttps://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/digitalmarketingyesConnect with Jenny Lock:0487275151www.klopropertyco.com.auK&LO Property Co Google reviewConnect With Kylie:Follow Kylie Walker on Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/thatpropertymum_/Follow Kylie on Facebook - https://web.facebook.com/thatpropertymumConnect with Kylie on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylie-wal...Explore Kylie's Website - https://www.thatpropertymum.com.au/Watch Kylie on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thatpropertymum

There’s a side of property management we don’t speak about nearly enough – the emotional load, the vulnerability, and the quiet moments where instinct becomes your greatest safety tool. In this deeply honest conversation with experienced property management professional Kallista Tzirvelakis, we shine a light on the realities many property managers have experienced but rarely voice out loud. From solo inspections to aggressive interactions and the pressure to simply “keep going,” it’s a powerful reminder that safety isn’t a luxury in our industry – it’s essential. What stood out most was the importance of trusting your gut, speaking up early, and creating workplace cultures where people feel genuinely supported, not dismissed.There’s also an important conversation here around leadership and responsibility. Property managers are often expected to absorb conflict, manage chaos, and navigate difficult situations without enough structure or protection in place. The discussion around code words, team communication, risk awareness, and emotional resilience highlights something many businesses still overlook – good intentions are not enough. Systems need to be practiced, conversations need to happen regularly, and teams need to know their wellbeing matters just as much as performance. For industry leaders, this is a timely reminder that retention starts with creating environments where people feel safe, heard, and valued.What makes this conversation especially impactful is its honesty. There’s no fearmongering or dramatics – just real experiences, practical awareness, and thoughtful insight into the realities of working closely with people every single day. For newer property managers, it offers guidance and perspective. For experienced professionals, it’s validation that the pressure we carry is real and worthy of acknowledgment. And for the industry as a whole, it’s a call to approach safety, mental wellbeing, and professional development with far more intention than we have in the past. Because protecting your team isn’t separate from building a successful business – it’s part of it.“Just never go in with a blind eye. Just be aware of your surroundings. Do your due diligence. Check backgrounds. and go with your gut feeling. If something doesn't feel right, just don't do it.” - Kallista TzirvelakisWe cover:Importance of personal safety in property management, especially for women.Risks and vulnerabilities faced by property managers when dealing with tenants.Personal experiences highlighting the need for effective safety protocols.Development and challenges of safety systems, such as the "Red Folder" protocol.The impact of personal exposure through online profiles and social media.Strategies for protecting oneself, including background checks and tenant verification.Practical safety tips for property managers during inspections and meetings.Emotional and psychological effects of confrontations with difficult tenants.Industry challenges contributing to burnout and mental health struggles among property managers.Encouragement for open communication and ongoing discussions about safety in the property management field.A big shout-out to our amazing podcast partner Ailo.Ailo is an Australian property management software and app designed to streamline communication and payments between property managers, owners, and tenants. It offers in-app chat, real-time rent tracking, and maintenance management, aiming to modernise property management and improve transparency for all parties.Book an Ailo Demo and get your Mecca Gift Card:http://ailo.io/tpmFollow Ailo:https://www.instagram.com/ailohq/Kylie’s Resources:Property Management Growth School: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/TPM-BDMSchoolDigital Marketing School: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/digitalschoolThat Property Mum Courses: https://www.thatpropertymum.com.au/courses/The PM Accelerate Membership: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/accelerateBook a Strategy Call with Kylie: https://calendly.com/kylie-tpm/coaching-call Kolmeo: https://kolmeo.com/Find out about our Done for You Lead Generation - https://calendly.com/kylie-tpm/done-for-you-leads-discovery-call35 AI Prompts to help you Grow your Business on Social Media: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/35-prompts-to-grow-your-property-management-business-on-social-mediahttps://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/5-misktakes-replayDigital Marketing and AI Academyhttps://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/digitalmarketingyesConnect with Kallista Tzirvelakis:https://kallista.zebrapm.com.au/https://www.instagram.com/zebra_pm_kallista/https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574342851698www.linkedin.com/in/kallista-tzirvelakis-96902877Connect With Kylie:Follow Kylie Walker on Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/thatpropertymum_/Follow Kylie on Facebook - https://web.facebook.com/thatpropertymumConnect with Kylie on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylie-wal...Explore Kylie's Website - https://www.thatpropertymum.com.au/Watch Kylie on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thatpropertymum

In this deeply honest and thought-provoking conversation, I sat down with Melissa Hickson to explore a side of property management that so many professionals experience but rarely speak about openly – nervous system dysregulation, chronic stress, and the emotional toll of constantly operating in survival mode. Together, we unpack the invisible pressure so many property managers carry while juggling demanding workloads, difficult conversations, leadership responsibilities and personal challenges behind the scenes. This episode offers a compassionate and refreshing perspective on what burnout really looks like in our industry – and why simply “pushing through” is no longer sustainable.Melissa shares her personal journey through career trauma, relationship breakdown, anxiety and emotional exhaustion, alongside the powerful practices that helped her rebuild herself from the inside out. From breathwork and nervous system regulation to recognising the physical signs of stress, this conversation is filled with practical insights for property management professionals who feel overwhelmed, reactive or disconnected from themselves. I also open up about my own experience with chronic stress and health challenges, creating a deeply relatable discussion around leadership, self-awareness and the importance of protecting your wellbeing while building a successful career.More than anything, this episode is a reminder that success in property management should never come at the expense of your health, relationships or sense of self. It’s a conversation about learning to slow down, listen to your body and create a more sustainable way of living and leading. Whether you’re a business owner, department head or property manager feeling stretched too thin, I hope this episode leaves you feeling seen, supported and encouraged to approach both life and business with more intention, clarity and compassion.““I think it’s really important – when we are in our industry, it is stressful. Being a property manager is a really stressful place to be. If you are actually not regulated within your day-to-day life, then it will feed back into your work.” - Melissa HicksonWe cover:The impact of chronic stress and burnout in the property management industry.Personal experiences of stress and mental health challenges faced by industry professionals.Signs and symptoms of nervous system dysregulation, including emotional and physical manifestations.The importance of recognizing and addressing nervous system dysregulation for overall well-being.Techniques for regulating the nervous system, such as breathwork and grounding practices.The role of energetic healing practices, including Reiki and Kundalini energy work, in managing stress.The transformative effects of breathwork and energetic practices on personal and professional life.The connection between personal well-being and professional effectiveness in property management.The importance of open conversations about mental health and stress management in the workplace.Resources and support available for individuals seeking to improve their mental health and manage stress.A big shout-out to our amazing podcast partner Ailo.Ailo is an Australian property management software and app designed to streamline communication and payments between property managers, owners, and tenants. It offers in-app chat, real-time rent tracking, and maintenance management, aiming to modernise property management and improve transparency for all parties.Book an Ailo Demo and get your Mecca Gift Card:http://ailo.io/tpmFollow Ailo:https://www.instagram.com/ailohq/Kylie’s Resources:Property Management Growth School: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/TPM-BDMSchoolDigital Marketing School: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/digitalschoolThat Property Mum Courses: https://www.thatpropertymum.com.au/courses/The PM Accelerate Membership: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/accelerateBook a Strategy Call with Kylie: https://calendly.com/kylie-tpm/coaching-call Kolmeo: https://kolmeo.com/Find out about our Done for You Lead Generation - https://calendly.com/kylie-tpm/done-for-you-leads-discovery-call35 AI Prompts to help you Grow your Business on Social Media: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/35-prompts-to-grow-your-property-management-business-on-social-mediahttps://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/5-misktakes-replayDigital Marketing and AI Academyhttps://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/digitalmarketingyesConnect with Melissa Hickson:https://prpm.com.au/our-team-melissa-hickson/0422 071 572melissa@prpm.com.auhttps://www.instagram.com/melissahicksonpmspecialist/Connect With Kylie:Follow Kylie Walker on Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/thatpropertymum_/Follow Kylie on Facebook - https://web.facebook.com/thatpropertymumConnect with Kylie on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylie-wal...Explore Kylie's Website - https://www.thatpropertymum.com.au/Watch Kylie on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thatpropertymum

Patrick Mears shares a refreshingly honest perspective on what success in property management can actually look like – and it’s not always tied to bigger portfolios, larger teams or chasing endless growth. After years of building his business, Patrick reached a turning point where he realised that more management didn’t automatically equal more freedom, profit or happiness. Instead, he made the conscious decision to build a business that supports the life he wants, not one that consumes it. His approach is a powerful reminder that sustainable growth starts with clarity around your values, your goals and the lifestyle you’re trying to create.This conversation also unpacks the hidden cost of discounting in property management and why so many business owners unknowingly sacrifice profit, team sustainability and service quality in the pursuit of growth. Pat shares his philosophy around attracting quality clients through reputation, consistency and word of mouth rather than competing on price. There’s so much value here for business owners feeling pressure to constantly grow, especially in an industry where vanity metrics can easily distract from what’s actually creating a healthy, profitable business behind the scenes.What stood out most for me was his perspective on freedom – not in the flashy sense, but in the everyday moments that matter. Being able to pick his boys up from daycare, attend swimming lessons, step away from difficult clients and create boundaries around how he works has become his definition of success. It’s such an important conversation for anyone in property management who feels stretched too thin, overwhelmed by expectations or caught in the trap of believing bigger always means better.“I'm my own competition, so if I want to grow by ten this month, then I have to do that work and not have to go out and steal from other people or beat everyone. Just compete against yourself and work out what you need, what you want, as opposed to what other people are sprouting on social media or whatever, how many they've signed and that sort of thing.” - Patrick MearsWe cover:Growth in the property management industry and its misconceptionsThe relationship between business size and successPersonal experiences and journey of a property management business ownerThe impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on business perspectivesImportance of work-life balance and aligning business goals with personal valuesStrategies for maintaining profitability without discounting servicesThe significance of quality client relationships over quantityEfficient business management practices and the use of technologyThe value of networking and collaboration within the industryAdvice for property managers on managing growth pressures and focusing on personal goalsA big shout-out to our amazing podcast partner Ailo. Ailo is an Australian property management software and app designed to streamline communication and payments between property managers, owners, and tenants. It offers in-app chat, real-time rent tracking, and maintenance management, aiming to modernise property management and improve transparency for all parties.Book an Ailo Demo and get your Mecca Gift Card:http://ailo.io/tpmFollow Ailo:https://www.instagram.com/ailohq/Kylie’s Resources:Property Management Growth School: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/TPM-BDMSchool Digital Marketing School: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/digitalschool That Property Mum Courses: https://www.thatpropertymum.com.au/courses/ The PM Accelerate Membership: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/accelerate Book a Strategy Call with Kylie: https://calendly.com/kylie-tpm/coaching-call Kolmeo: https://kolmeo.com/ Find out about our Done for You Lead Generation - https://calendly.com/kylie-tpm/done-for-you-leads-discovery-call35 AI Prompts to help you Grow your Business on Social Media: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/35-prompts-to-grow-your-property-management-business-on-social-mediahttps://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/5-misktakes-replayDigital Marketing and AI Academyhttps://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/digitalmarketingyesConnect with Patrick Mears:https://www.rubixrealty.com.au/https://www.instagram.com/rubixrealty/https://www.facebook.com/Rubix.Realtyhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/patrickmearspropertymanager/Connect With Kylie:Follow Kylie Walker on Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/thatpropertymum_/Follow Kylie on Facebook - https://web.facebook.com/thatpropertymumConnect with Kylie on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylie-wal...Explore Kylie's Website - https://www.thatpropertymum.com.au/Watch Kylie on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thatpropertymum

Growing a business can look strong and successful from the outside, but what’s happening behind the scenes often tells a very different story. In this episode, I sit down with Elizabeth Hood, founder of Elite Real Estate, to unpack the reality of building a business while navigating some of life’s toughest challenges. From launching her agency with limited resources to facing personal loss, single parenthood, and a life-altering health diagnosis, Elizabeth shares the moments that reshaped not just her business, but her entire perspective.One of the most powerful takeaways from this conversation is how easy it is to become conditioned to “push through” at all costs. In high-pressure industries like property management, that constant drive can feel normal – even necessary. But Elizabeth’s experience highlights what happens when that mindset goes unchecked. Operating in a constant state of urgency, ignoring physical warning signs, and prioritising everything else above your own wellbeing can slowly take its toll, often without you realising until you’re forced to stop.At the centre of it all is a shift in how success is defined. Elizabeth now approaches her business and life with a completely different lens – one that values energy, presence, and intentional boundaries just as much as growth. By creating space to rest, disconnect, and be fully present with her family, she’s found a more sustainable way to move forward. For anyone feeling stretched or stuck in the cycle of doing more, this episode offers a grounded reminder: building a thriving business should never come at the expense of the life you’re working so hard to create.“I think when you give, like you think you're giving your best to people, but when you're running at 10%. It's not your best.” - Elizabeth HoodWe cover:Overcoming personal and professional challenges in real estate.The impact of mindset on healing and success.Navigating cancer while managing a business and family.The emotional toll of burnout and stress.The importance of integrity and relationships in business.Building a business with strong values and community focus.Strategies for maintaining a positive mindset and emotional control.The significance of setting boundaries and prioritizing health.The transformative effects of personal experiences on family and business.Empowering others to achieve balance without sacrificing health or values.A big Shout out to our amazing podcast partner Ailo. Ailo is an Australian property management software and app designed to streamline communication and payments between property managers, owners, and tenants. It offers in-app chat, real-time rent tracking, and maintenance management, aiming to modernise property management and improve transparency for all parties.Book an Ailo Demo and get your Mecca Gift Card:http://ailo.io/tpmFollow Ailo:https://www.instagram.com/ailohq/Kylie’s Resources:Property Management Growth School: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/TPM-BDMSchool Digital Marketing School: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/digitalschool That Property Mum Courses: https://www.thatpropertymum.com.au/courses/ The PM Accelerate Membership: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/accelerate Book a Strategy Call with Kylie: https://calendly.com/kylie-tpm/coaching-call Kolmeo: https://kolmeo.com/ Find out about our Done for You Lead Generation - https://calendly.com/kylie-tpm/done-for-you-leads-discovery-call35 AI Prompts to help you Grow your Business on Social Media: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/35-prompts-to-grow-your-property-management-business-on-social-mediahttps://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/5-misktakes-replayDigital Marketing and AI Academyhttps://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/digitalmarketingyesConnect with Elizabeth Hood:https://www.elitere.com.au/https://www.instagram.com/eliterockhampton/https://www.facebook.com/elizabethhoodsellshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-hood-85a7b852/Connect With Kylie:Follow Kylie Walker on Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/thatpropertymum_/Follow Kylie on Facebook - https://web.facebook.com/thatpropertymumConnect with Kylie on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylie-wal...Explore Kylie's Website - https://www.thatpropertymum.com.au/Watch Kylie on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thatpropertymum

How hard is it to buy or sell your rent roll? Well, it's a lot harder than you think, especially since there's a lot of money at stake. If you buy the wrong rent roll and lose a large number of those managements, you will be under severe financial pressure, especially if you have a loan to pay back. That's why it's important to talk to experts if you're embarking on this journey. So let's break down some of the nitty-gritty you need to know when buying and selling a rent roll. Joining Kylie in this episode is Lucy Ross, Property Lawyer specializing in the rent roll business. Doors are now open to the Digital Marketing School. The unique and proven method to boost your personal profile, build your business brand and grow your rent roll. Join here: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/digitalschool“Property management is all about relationships with your property owners. That's your key to this business.” - Lucy RossIn This Episode:- Meet Lucy Ross, Property Lawyer- What is a rent roll? Why would someone want to buy or sell a rent roll?- The legalities that go into buying and selling a rent roll and why you should always perform due diligence in all your transactions- Should you always engage a lawyer when entering into a deal?- What you need to know before signing that contract- Special conditions you should include in your contract of sale, especially those that are unique to rent roll- What is the first step you need to take if you're thinking about buying or selling a rent roll?- Lucy shares a piece of excellent advice that applies to any role or industryResources:- Rent Roll Buyers Guide- Join the Digital Marketing SchoolConnect with Lucy Ross:- Website - Instagram - LinkedInConnect with Kylie:- Instagram - Website- Facebook - Facebook Group - LinkedIn - YouTube