The Room Xchange is proud to present a new partnership with compare and connect enabling you to save money on your utilities.

About this episode
In this episode of The Room Xchange podcast, Ludwina Dautovic talks with Neil Saligrama, the founder and CEO of compare and connect. They discuss how the company is revolutionising the Australian and New Zealander markets in services like energy, broadband, and insurance. Neil shares his journey of moving to Australia, the challenges he faced with utility providers and how these experiences led him to create Compare and Connect. 

Origin story
The platform simplifies the complex industry of utilities, enabling consumers to make informed, cost-effective choices. Neil details the evolution of the company from a telesales organisation in 2010 to its pivotal shift in 2014, where it combined comparison and connection services under one roof. 

Bill consolidation
The discussion also covers the practicalities and benefits of using compare and connect, including the potential savings on essential services and the ease of switching providers. Additionally, Neil introduces an innovative app, 1Bill, aimed at consolidating bills and further simplifying service management for consumers. 

Our partnership
We conclude with the partnership arrangement between The Room Xchange and compare and connect. If you click on this link it will allow you to compare your own bills and support The Room Xchange at the same time.

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• Tweet us at @theroomxchange and @LudwinaDautovic
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Ever wished there was a simpler way to manage and share expenses? Today, we're having an enlightening discussion with Rowan Wilde, co-founder of HelpPay. It's a social impact payments platform that's making it easier to shoulder bills together. Rowan shares how HelpPay lets you create a link for others to chip in on expenses and speaks candidly about the importance of customer trust and the challenges of providing support. And there's more - we're making an exciting announcement you won't want to miss!

Next, we're exploring the free app, HelpPay. Designed to take the fuss out of sharing bills with friends, family, and organisations, this app is a game-changer for anyone managing shared expenses. It's particularly beneficial for students and those in shared housing, making it easy to forward bills for payment and maintain a good credit history. The convenience and simplicity of HelpPay can't be overstated - it's revolutionising bill management and payment. 

We're also diving into the future of house-sharing and renting and how it's simplifying the renting process. The Room Xchange, Australia's first verified house-sharing platform, is revolutionising house-sharing by matching renters based on personality, values, and lifestyle. Plus, we're discussing the option to rent or offset rent, a game-changer for anyone looking to save time and money. Whether you're a homeowner new to the sharing economy, or a well-versed renter, this episode is packed with actionable tips and insights.

Last but not least, we're sharing our great news about the innovative partnership between The Room Xchange and HelpPay and how together, we're making bill paying easier.

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Housing Trends & Affordability Challenges:
Dive into a captivating exploration of the regional housing market with Laura Shooter, Managing Director at SJ Shooter Real Estate in Dubbo. This episode promises enlightening insights into the intricacies of the rental market, housing value trends, and the pressing matter of affordability issues faced by many.

Navigating the Housing Shortage:
Discover the role of innovative initiatives, such as The Room Xchange, in addressing the housing crunch. Laura, deeply connected to the heart of Dubbo, shares the potential economic and tourism benefits that come from optimising current housing capacities.

Impact of the Pandemic & Risk-Taking:
How has the pandemic reshaped the housing landscape? Join us for a riveting discussion on altered risk-taking behaviors and their implications for the market.

Engage with Us!
Don't miss out on this enlightening journey through the regional housing market and the groundbreaking changes in the rental space. Subscribe, share, and leave us a review!

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Today's episode is a deep dive into urban and housing development with Nicola Smith, an accomplished urban and regional planner and director of Niche Planning Studio. Expertly navigating the current rental crisis and mortgage stress, she unveils the key factors that have steered us to our current housing crisis. Nicola breaks down terms like green field and brown field, highlighting their significant role in housing development. Together we strategise on how to generate more housing in established areas, promoting affordability, and diversifying our housing types.

Steering the conversation towards government policies, Nicola and I scrutinise their town planning and housing development strategies. We dissect the implications of the policy that earmarks 70% of growth for the inner city and the remaining 30% for the green fields. How will this affect the citizens of established areas? We further delve into the complexities of rejuvenating inner city areas, the potential for overlooking amenity impacts, and the advantages of home-building in green field regions. 

Nicola then shares her valuable insights on challenges surrounding housing affordability and service accessibility in Melbourne. We mull over the government's strategic planning efforts and the use of developer contributions in the face of a pressing need for affordable housing. We also explore the cost of apartment living, the possibility of converting offices into residences, and the often overlooked factor of embodied carbon in building construction. 

Join us as we unravel the convolutions of Australia's housing market, the struggle for affordable housing, and the impact of 'NIMBYism' (Not in my backyard) on planning and development.

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Ever wondered how to navigate the complexities of the strata sector or manage the ever-evolving challenges of the rental market? We've got you covered in our enlightening conversation with John Minns, the pioneer New South Wales Property Services Commissioner. John, armed with his 30 years of experience, unravels the intricacies of the real estate industry and underscores the urgent necessity for reform and uplift to ensure a secure future for the industry. From the power of knowledge in boosting confidence in the property sector to the issues faced by renters and landlords alike, John takes us on a candid exploration of the strata sector.

Our discourse with John doesn't end there; we delve deeper, examining the current market's property management challenges and the importance of fostering healthy tenant-landlord relationships. The conversation gets even more riveting as we tackle the trials of integrating new technologies into the rental system and the repercussions of rent increases on tenants. We further dissect the rental market, explore the concept of digital ID, delve into rental challenges, and discuss the call for more private investment.  To cap it all off, we discuss The Room Xchange, Australia's premier verified house-sharing platform. Don't miss out on John's wealth of insights - they’re sure to revolutionise your understanding of the property sector!

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Ever wondered how architectural design could shape our future? Imagine a world where houses aren't just commodities, but sustainable spaces that nourish our lives and the planet. 

Join us as we explore this potential world with our guest Antony DiMase, of DiMase Architects.  Antony champions the belief that good design has the power to enhance our lives and environment, and he delves into the essence of sustainable architecture in this episode - highlighting the importance of small footprint buildings suffused with natural light, good ventilation, and adaptable spaces. 

Did you know that even as a renter, there are ways to make your home more energy-efficient? Antony shares some nifty tips on how to keep your house warm and minimise drafts. We also discuss the importance of regular maintenance in ensuring the longevity of a building. 

We also dive deeper into more complex solutions to reduce carbon emissions and create sustainable housing, discussing everything from green loans and subsidies to the potential of creating a logbook system to track energy efficiency progress in dwellings.

 Join us to envision the future of sustainable housing with Antony DiMase, where every home could be a sanctuary that complements our planet.

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Welcome to episode 25 of The Room Xchange podcast, where we delve into the accommodation partnership between Study Gold Coast and The Room Xchange as part of their 'Host for the Coast' program. Join us as we explore how this collaboration is revolutionising the student community in the Gold Coast, Australia, and providing affordable accommodation solutions for international and local students. In this episode we're speaking with Jennine Tax, the acting CEO of Study Gold Coast. The conversation provided a wealth of knowledge, revealing how Study Gold Coast is transforming the student community through its four cardinal pillars: attracting students, ensuring a warm welcome, facilitating employability opportunities, and retaining student talent in the city.

As one of the world's top 10 most welcoming destinations, the Gold Coast stands out for its picturesque beaches, lively nightlife, and most importantly, its safe and inviting environment - a key factor that draws in international students seeking a secure place to study and live.

Despite its welcoming reputation, the Gold Coast, like many other cities worldwide, faces an accommodation crisis. Factors such as interstate migration, families coming together due to the COVID pandemic, and the rise of Airbnb have led to a scarcity of suitable housing options for students.

To address this pressing issue, Jennine and her team have set up a dedicated student hub that offers vital support appointments to students, guiding them through pre-departure planning and the challenges of finding accommodation. In a remarkable step, Study Gold Coast has introduced an innovative room exchange program exclusively for international students, presenting an appealing alternative to traditional homestay options.

In the first chapter of this insightful podcast, Jennine delves into how Study Gold Coast is actively working to support students in the rental market. She sheds light on the organisation's four pillars and discusses the Gold Coast's success as a welcoming destination with a focus on safety, which continues to attract students from around the globe.

The second chapter highlights the housing crisis faced by students. Jennine elaborates on the contributing factors, including interstate migration, pandemic-related changes, and the popularity of Airbnb, which have made finding rental properties increasingly challenging, especially for non-native English speakers without rental history.

In the final chapter, we explore the room exchange program developed by Study Gold Coast. This exceptional initiative provides a safe, secure, and welcoming experience for students, ensuring their well-being and fostering long-lasting connections. The program also includes thorough verification processes for both homeowners and housemates, making it a reliable and trusted option for students in need.

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Welcome to another insightful episode of our podcast, where we explore real-life stories and experiences. In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of The Room Xchange and the transformative power of living together. Join us as we hear from Hansraj and Cate, two individuals who have embarked on a unique living arrangement through The Room Xchange matching service. Discover how sharing living spaces can be a rewarding solution for loneliness and personal growth.

I'm grateful for the support and guidance provided by the service. They helped us navigate through the process and ensure that our house-sharing arrangement would work seamlessly. - Cate

When Hansraj and Cate first connected through our platform, they immediately sensed a shared interest in creating a harmonious living environment. Our meticulous matching algorithms took into account their preferences, lifestyles, and values, carefully analyzing every detail to ensure compatibility.

Through a series of conversations facilitated by our platform, Hansraj and Cate delved into their expectations, aspirations, and daily routines. They explored their hobbies, and interests, and even discussed their approach to maintaining a tidy living space. It quickly became evident that they shared similar values and deep respect for each other's boundaries.

The matching service played a pivotal role in identifying the common threads that would contribute to a successful house-sharing experience. It highlighted their complementary personalities and the potential for a strong bond to develop. As they delved deeper into their conversations, they realised the remarkable potential for personal growth and meaningful connections within their shared space.

With our assistance, Hansraj and Cate navigated through the process of evaluating their compatibility. They meticulously assessed the practical aspects, such as household responsibilities, financial arrangements, and schedules. Their discussions were marked by transparency, open communication, and a genuine desire to ensure a mutually beneficial living arrangement.

The meticulousness of our matching service provided Hansraj and Cate with the confidence to move forward, knowing that they had found a truly compatible house-sharing match. Today, they cherish the rewarding experience of cohabitating, reaping the benefits of companionship, personal growth, and the joy of sharing their lives.

At our core, we strive to connect individuals who share not only physical living spaces but also a sense of belonging and connection. Through our exceptional matching service, we continue to transform the lives of many, forging bonds that go beyond mere cohabitation.

If you're seeking a house-sharing match made in heaven, trust our matching service to guide you on a journey towards finding your ideal housemate. Experience the transformative power of living together, where shared spaces become a source of growth and friendship.

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Finding a place to call home can be a challenging and sometimes overwhelming task. Whether you're a homeowner, a renter, or someone interested in co-living arrangements, navigating the housing market can often leave you feeling uncertain and frustrated. In episode #23 of The Room Xchange Podcast, we had the pleasure of speaking with Peter Meek, a remarkable individual who has experienced housing from various angles. His unique insights shed light on the joys, challenges, and opportunities within the ever-evolving world of housing.

A Multifaceted Background
Peter's diverse background immediately captured our attention. Having explored different housing options throughout his life, he brings a wealth of knowledge and experiences to the table. From being a homeowner and managing rental properties to embracing the concept of house sharing, Peter has gained invaluable insights into the dynamics of the housing market.

The Joy and Benefits of House Sharing
A popular alternative to traditional renting, emerged as a focal point of the conversation. Peter shared his enthusiasm for this concept, highlighting the positive aspects that extend beyond financial savings. Building relationships, creating a sense of community, and enjoying the company of like-minded individuals were among the numerous benefits he highlighted.

The Challenges of Finding Rental Properties
As the conversation unfolded, the challenges faced by renters became apparent. Peter discussed the difficulties many encounter in finding affordable and accessible rental properties, especially in the midst of a rental crisis. He emphasized the importance of platforms like The Room Xchange, which aims to connect homeowners with spare rooms to those in need of affordable accommodation.

Fostering Relationships Between Landlords and Tenants
Peter's experiences as a homeowner provided valuable insights into the landlord-tenant relationship. He stressed the significance of treating this relationship as a business partnership, emphasizing open communication and trust. By establishing personal connections and showing genuine care for tenants, homeowners can foster a positive living experience for all parties involved.

The Evolution of The Room Xchange
Peter's involvement with The Room Xchange, a platform that connects hosts with guests in a mutually beneficial exchange, showcased the potential for innovative solutions within the housing market. He highlighted the platform's role in creating safe and secure living arrangements while simultaneously fostering new friendships. The Room Xchange is not just about finding a place to stay; it's about building meaningful connections.

Creating Safe and Affordable Accommodation Options
With housing affordability being a pressing concern, Peter emphasised the importance of finding innovative ways to address this issue. Platforms like The Room Xchange provide a viable solution by offering safe and affordable

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Ludwina Dautovic introduces a new segment to The Room Xchange podcast called The Room Xchange Stories. These stories will provide insights and tips about house-sharing and will also include some of her own personal stories. The first one is about women helping women and is a very personal story for Ludwina. As the CEO and Founder of The Room Xchange, she has to deal with the complexities of leading the company as well as continuously hearing about the difficulties everyday people are facing in regards to housing. 

After feeling incredibly exhausted at the end of last year, Ludwina put out a call for a place to stay for a few weeks to take a break and reset. Elizabeth, who had been a household listed on their platform, replied and Ludwina moved in two days later. 

Elizabeth, a single mother, businesswoman and counsellor, welcomed Ludwina into her mud brick home on a ten acre property in Country Victoria. Ludwina was in awe of the cedar wood and silk walls, and French doors that opened out to a balcony with deers roaming in the garden. She felt grounded and supported by Elizabeth and her 16 year old daughter.  

Elizabeth encouraged her to make herself at home. Ludwina observed the dynamic and vibe of the household, feeling the groove of the home and understanding the personalities of the two people who lived there. 

This conversation provided insight into the perspective of being a housemate in someone else's home. Ludwina talks about her experience of living as a housemate. She emphasises the importance of setting clear house rules and respecting how the household runs. She suggests that getting a handle on how the household works quickly will help the person fit in and connect in a deeper way. She also talks about how they discussed food, house cleaning and expectations as a housemate, and how being flexible helped her fit in. Ludwina emphasises the importance of having regular conversations and suggests having meals together as a way to connect.

Key moments in this podcast 

0:00:00 Women Helping Women: A Room Xchange Story

0:03:04 The Room Xchange: A Story of Resilience and Connection

0:04:42 Exploring the Idyllic Setting of a Mud Brick Home in Country Victoria

0:06:46 Exploring the Benefits of Housemate Exchange: Reflections on Establishing House Rules and Building Connections

0:08:10 Creating a Positive Living Environment: Tips for Successful Housemate Relationships

0:15:05 Reflection on House Sharing: Creating Lifelong Friendships 

0:17:57 Benefits of House Sharing

0:19:35 Exploring the Power of Women Helping Women: Reflections from a Housemate Experience

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Hello and welcome to The Room Xchange podcast. I’m Ludwina Dautovic and today I’m talking to Peter Schravemade. Peter is an international educator and speaker in the area of Property, Construction and Development Marketing. He’s on the board of Proptech Association of Australia (of which I’m a member). He’s also a managing partner of Reach Australia, a venture  capital and private equity firm accelerating the top growth companies into the global real estate industry.

In episode #22, Ludwina Dautovic and Peter Shravemade talk about the archaic rental application process in Australia and the difficulties of applying for a rental property when living interstate. 

00:58.14 - Peter Schravemade's background in the property industry

02:25.70 - Current state of the rental market

03:59.34 - Challenges in addressing housing affordability and shortage

04:27.91 - The need for an overarching solution

05:02.73 - Discussion about the broken rental market

06:32.46 - Peter's personal experience helping his daughter find a rental property

08:04.84 - Property inspections and application process

09:02.49 - Stringent financial scrutiny for rental applications

10:13.10 - Various application processes and their complexities

11:43.80 - Property inspections and overcrowding issues

12:36.90 - Mistake in lease duration and missed opportunity

13:27.73 - Frustration and anger over the costly experience

14:42.63 - Expenses incurred and the unfeasible nature of the process

15:10.88 - Conclusion and reflection on the rental process

16:06.60 - The Challenges of the Rental Application Process

16:47.68 - Difficulty in Finding Short-Term Rentals

17:01.58 - Overwhelming Experience of Renting and Lack of Six-Month Rental, lack of Transparency in Lease Requirements and Strain on Property Managers and Market Readiness

18:06.17 - Need for Clear Expectations in Lease Duration, Challenges of Renting from Interstate, International Students and Language Barriers

19:05.97 - Difficulty for International Students in Understanding Regulations

20:00.50 - Frustration with Inability to Secure Rental Accommodation

21:11.74 - Challenges Faced by Self-Manage Landlords

21:55.11 - The Need for Change in the Rental Process

22:27.20 - Excessive Financial Investigation of Tenants

23:59.23 - Concerns About Privacy and Data Security

24:35.11 - Requesting Deletion of Personal Data from Providers

25:13.50 - Importance of Cybersecurity and Data Protection

26:13.34 - Alternative Housing Options for University Students

26:24.73 - Understanding the Property Managers' Perspective

27:02.81 - Overregulation and Complex Application Process

28:22.19 - Centralised Application System and Potential Issues

29:23.38 - Lack of Landlord Influence in the Rental Process

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