Rabbitree Outlook Magazine_Issue 01 (August)

ISSUE 01 | August 2025

OUTLOOK The Month in Motion.

A Brand New Chapter Begins This month, we turn the page and begin again — with purpose, with people, with perspective.

Not just a new look, but a new way forward.

Welcome to Rabbitree A New Identity. A Clearer Vision.

On 1st July, we officially turned a page.

After years of growth under the VICPROP name, we are proud to begin a new chapter as Rabbitree Real Estate — independent, focused, and ready for what comes next.

This rebrand is more than a change in name. It is a reflection of how far we have come, and a statement of who we are today.

We are still the same team you know, with a clearer voice, a stronger identity, and a deeper commitment to delivering results with integrity.

Over the past months, our entire team has worked tirelessly to rebuild the brand from the ground up. The transition has been more than a visual one — it has reshaped how we speak, how we operate, and how we connect with the people we serve.

Thank you for being part of this journey.

Rabbitree is not just a new name. It is a renewed promise.

01

CONTENTS

Welcome to Rabbitree

01

A new chapter beqins with a new identity

From the Managing Director

03

05

09

Results Made Real

23

Recent Sales Highlights

24

Fast sales, strong campaigns, and building milestones

11

This month's suburb spotlight: Docklands VIC 3008

This Month's Tip

15

What we achieved in July, and how we got there

A snapshot of July's trends, data, and buyer sentiment

Neighbourhood Notes

On the Market Browse 40+ homes currently listed across Melbourne

Meet the team shaping Rabbitree from the inside out

Market in Motion

13

Two standout properties leading this month's campaigns

Leo Bi reflects on vision, leadership, and change

The People Behind the Brand

Featured Listings

Grow with Rabbitree

27

Careers, culture, and why it is a place to grow

12

What to check before signing property documents

02

03

From the Managing Director Introducing the journey behind the name, and the people behind the journey.

A brand is not built on a name. It is built on the people who carry it forward.

As we launch the very first issue of Outlook, I find myself reflecting on what this rebrand truly means, not just for Rabbitree as a business, but for all of us who shape it day by day.

Stepping out with a new identity is bold, but our intention is not to impress. It is to align.

Align with who we are, how we think, and what we believe real estate should feel like.

This magazine is a window into our world, our work, and our way of seeing the property journey. In the pages that follow, you will meet the team behind the transition, discover the principles that guide us, and see how we aim to build something lasting — not just in bricks and mortar, but in relationships and trust.

To everyone who has walked this path with us — clients, colleagues, friends, thank you. This is a new beginning, and we are glad you are here with us.

Leo Bi Founder & Managing Director 04

The People Behind the Brand Meet the individuals shaping Rabbitree’s culture, performance, and future.

Real estate is not just about property.

It is about people.

And these are the people building the next chapter of Rabbitree.

Yvonne Zhao Sales Manager M 0433 286 055 E yvonne.zhao@rabbitree.com.au "Chase your own life. Chase your own dream."

Driven by Trust. Powered by Insight.

With over a decade of experience in Melbourne’s real estate landscape, Yvonne Zhao blends market insight with emotional intelligence to deliver not just property outcomes, but long-term relationships built on trust. Known for her patience, calm energy, and thoughtful negotiation skills, Yvonne’s strength lies in helping clients feel supported from first home buyers to seasoned investors.

Nicole Huang Licensed Estate Agent M 0426 207 421 E nicole.huang@rabbitree.com.au "Live as the version of yourself you love the most — with freedom in spirit and sunshine in soul."

Guided by Heart. Driven by Results.

With nearly a decade of real estate experience, Nicole sees every property as a new beginning, a personal story waiting to unfold. Fluent in English, Mandarin, and Hokkien, she bridges cultures naturally, ensuring clients from all walks of life feel heard, respected, and understood.

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Max Pang Licensed Estate Agent M 0478 354 321 E max.pang@rabbitree.com.au "Just do it."

Experienced. Trustworthy. Straightforward.

With over a decade of experience in Melbourne’s apartment and western suburbs market, Max Pang brings a calm confidence and no-nonsense mindset to every transaction. He’s known not just for his local knowledge, but for his ability to connect quickly and communicate clearly, traits that have earned him the trust of countless clients across all walks of life.

Max Fong Licensed Estate Agent M 0428 854 144 E max.fong@rabbitree.com.au “Work smart — it’s not about doing more, it’s about doing it better.”

Clarity First. Strategy Always.

With 13 years of experience and fluency in English, Mandarin, and Cantonese, Max Fong brings a steady hand to every property journey. His strength lies in deep market knowledge, sharp negotiation skills, and an intuitive grasp of what clients need, even when they don’t say it.

Khoa Nguyen Property Partner M 0431 752 757 E khoa.nguyen@rabbitree.com.au "How you do anything is how you do everything."

Driven by Discipline. Defined by Care.

Khoa Nguyen approaches every interaction, big or small, with consistency, honesty, and care. With four years of experience in Melbourne’s residential real estate, Khoa has earned a reputation for going above and beyond, not just to close a deal, but to build genuine relationships.

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Jack Lo Property Partner M 0412 705 314 E jack.lo@rabbitree.com.au “Real estate is personal — so is my approach.”

Strategic Thinking. Human Connection.

With eight years of experience and deep local insight across Kew, Hawthorn, and Camberwell, Jack Lo blends sharp campaign strategy with a genuine, people-first approach. Known for his calm under pressure, clear communication, and premium client care, Jack turns high-stakes property journeys into seamless experiences.

Victor Yao Head of Property Management M 0416 788 168 E rentals@rabbitree.com.au “Integrity leads, responsibility follows.”

Managing with Integrity. Leading with Calm.

With nearly a decade of experience, Victor brings steady leadership and unmatched dedication to Rabbitree’s property management division. He believes in doing things right — the first time, every time — and has built his career on trust, responsibility, and an unwavering sense of service.

Neo Ma Leasing & Property Support M 0493 023 739 E leasing@rabbitree.com.au "I can’t change your past, but I can help make your future easier."

Calm, Capable, and Always One Step Ahead.

Neo Ma may be new to the real estate world, but he’s already showing a rare level of focus and reliability. Known for his punctuality, kindness, and quiet confidence, Neo brings a sense of stability to everything he does. With a sharp mind for time management and a calm approach to problem-solving, he supports the leasing team with precision and care.

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Jessie Ba Associated Operations Manager M 0488 095 666 E jessie.ba@rabbitree.com.au "You may not always see the work, but you’ll always feel the result."

Supporting People. Powering Progress.

With over 13 years in the industry, Jessie Ba has been the calm engine behind countless successful transactions. As Rabbitree’s Associated Operations Manager, she ensures that what happens behind the scenes runs with the same care and clarity as what’s seen in front.

Chris Ho

Issy Tsang

Administrative Coordinator

Creative Designer

“Lead with honesty, act with accountability.”

"I find joy in the quiet craft of detail — because I believe that everything beautiful exists for a reason."

Sherry Wu

Jie Xu

Digital Storymaker

Visual Storyteller

"The second-best time to grow something great is now.

So here I am."

“Design is how a brand breathes. Through form, colour, and rhythm, we reveal the soul behind every property.”

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Market in Motion Each month, we take a close look at the key movements shaping the Victorian and Melbourne property markets.

From sales trends to buyer behaviour, rental shifts to policy changes, here is a snapshot of what happened in July and what it may mean going forward.

Sources: CoreLogic, REIV, Domain, SQM Research, The Guardian, The Australian

1. Property values show steady rebound Melbourne dwelling values rose by approximately 0.5% in June and 1.1% for the quarter. This indicates a measured recovery in the residential market. Median values remain around 3.9% below the July 2022 peak.

2. Auction clearance rates remain strong Auction clearance rates across Melbourne consistently stayed above 70% throughout July. The mid-month result was approximately 71%, reflecting strong buyer demand and stable selling conditions.

3. Buyer frustration increases amid strong competition Buyers continue to face intense competition, with many being repeatedly outbid. Reports have highlighted growing financial stress and emotional fatigue among active buyers in the market.

6. Rental vacancy remains historically low Melbourne’s rental vacancy rate sits around 1.1%.

This tight supply environment continues to place upward pressure on rental prices and signals a constrained investor market.

4. Regional markets outperform metropolitan areas Property markets in regional Victoria, including Bendigo, Ballarat and Geelong, recorded stronger quarterly growth than metropolitan Melbourne.

These areas posted growth rates between 2.6% and 3.1% during the past quarter.

7. Investor activity slows New state taxes targeting vacant residential properties have prompted a rise in investor exits. An estimated 9% of investment properties have been listed for sale, contributing to supply shifts and future availability concerns.

5. Luxury segment remains resilient Toorak continues to lead Victoria’s prestige market.

Over half of the properties in the suburb are valued above $5 million dollars, reinforcing the strength of the high-end segment despite broader affordability concerns.

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8. Interest rates held steady The Reserve Bank of Australia kept the official cash rate unchanged at 3.85% in July. This pause has helped support buyer sentiment and provided stability amid ongoing inflationary concerns.

10

Neighbourhood Notes

Docklands VIC 3008 From harbourside apartment living to cutting-edge architecture, Docklands remains one of Melbourne’s most recognisable waterfront precincts.

Just 2 km west of the CBD, Docklands is home to high-rise living, major corporate offices, Marvel Stadium, and the DFO shopping hub. It appeals to professionals, investors, and lifestyle-driven buyers seeking convenience, amenity, and panoramic views.

While its reputation has fluctuated in recent years, current market trends show stabilisation and renewed investor interest, especially in mid-range two-bedroom apartments.

Median unit price: $580,000 (July 2025) Rental yield: approx. 6.3% Vacancy rate: improving, currently at 2.4% Buyers are advised to research building quality and owners corporation fees closely, as these vary significantly across the precinct.

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This Month’s Tip What you need to know, before you go.

Understanding Property Documents Whether you are buying or selling, property documents can either streamline your transaction or slow it down. Here is what you need to know this month.

Contract of Sale: The legal document that outlines terms and conditions. Buyers should review it with a conveyancer before signing.

Section 32 Statement:

Pro tip:

A vendor’s disclosure document that includes planning details, rates, building permits, and title info. Always check for red flags such as illegal works or unresolved notices.

If you're selling, preparing a clean and complete Section 32 upfront can significantly reduce delays once offers come in.

Building & Pest Reports:

Owners Corporation Certificate (for apartments):

Common in standalone home purchases. These can help buyers avoid costly surprises.

Outlines fees, insurance, and fund status.

Important for strata buyers.

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Featured Listings

2806/845 Whitehorse Road, Box Hill Stylish Sky-High Living in the Heart of Box Hill Set on the 28th floor of a modern landmark building, this sophisticated two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment offers an exceptional lifestyle in one of Box Hill’s most sought-after locations.

Both bedrooms feature built-in robes, with the master enjoying its own ensuite. A second stylish bathroom, European laundry, split-system air conditioning, secure car park, and storage cage complete this low-maintenance package.

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2

2

1

Private Sale Inspection as advertised or by appointment

Click to Explore

1011/9 Power Street, Southbank Riverside Luxury with Expansive Terrace Balcony Positioned on a coveted corner within the landmark Prima Tower, this meticulously crafted two-bedroom residence delivers an exceptional lifestyle of luxury, space, and uninterrupted views — all crowned by an extraordinary terrace balcony that's rarely found in city living.

Additional features include recessed LED lighting throughout, reverse cycle air conditioning in the living area and bedrooms, NBN readiness, and secure color video intercom entry.

2

1

Private Sale Inspection as advertised or by appointment

Click to Explore

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On the Market

Private Sale

17/1 Acland Street, St Kilda 1

1

1

Click to Explore

Private Sale

4406/18 Hoff Boulevard, Southbank 2

2

Click to Explore

Private Sale

8/211 Williams Road, South Yarra 1

1

Click to Explore

Private Sale

502/52-54 Osullivan Road, Glen Waverley 1

1

Click to Explore

15

1

Private Sale

18 Gershwin Crescent, Point Cook 3

2

1

Click to Explore

Private Sale

CARPARK/462 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne 1

1

1

Click to Explore

Private Sale

2/112 Warrigal Road, Camberwell 4

3

2

Click to Explore

Private Sale

5106d/648 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne 1

1

Click to Explore

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On the Market

Private Sale

210/9 The Arcade, Docklands 2

1

1

Click to Explore

Private Sale

6603C/633 Little Lonsdale Street, Melbourne 1

1

Click to Explore

Private Sale

109/8 Montrose Street, Hawthorn East 1

1

1

Click to Explore

Private Sale

1108/545 Station Street, Box Hill 3

2

Click to Explore

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2

Private Sale

1302/500 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne 2

1

Click to Explore

Private Sale

1802/545 Station Street, Box Hill 2

2

Click to Explore

Private Sale

2607/3 Young Street, Box Hill 2

2

1

Click to Explore

Private Sale

23 Happiness Way, Wyndham Vale 4

2

2

Click to Explore

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On the Market

Private Sale

211/8 Waterside Place, Docklands 2

1

1

Click to Explore

Private Sale

705/108 Haines Street, North Melbourne 1

1

1

Click to Explore

Private Sale

323/4 Acacia Place, Abbotsford 2

1

1

Click to Explore

Private Sale

1411/560 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne 2

2

Click to Explore

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Private Sale

204/120 High Street, Windsor 1

1

1

Click to Explore

Private Sale

1301/464 Collins Street, Melbourne 2

2

1

Click to Explore

Private Sale

26 Layla Crescent, Tarneit 3

3

1

Click to Explore

Private Sale

501/815 Bourke Street, Docklands 2

2

1

Click to Explore

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On the Market

Private Sale

3502/633 Little Lonsdale Street, Melbourne 2

2

Click to Explore

Private Sale

3007/38 Rose Lane, Melbourne 2

2

1

Click to Explore

Private Sale

1511/35 Albert Road, Melbourne 2

2

1

Click to Explore

Private Sale

5203/63 La Trobe Street, Melbourne 3

2

Click to Explore

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2

Private Sale

205/270 King Street, Melbourne 2

1

Click to Explore

Private Sale

8 Homebush Drive, Tarneit 4

2

2

Click to Explore

Private Sale

701/9-11 Prospect Street, Box Hill 2

2

Click to Explore

Private Sale

10-12 Grace Street, Cranbourne 5

2

2

Click to Explore

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Results Made Real What we achieved in July, and how we got there.

16

Listings

Top 4 23

9

Sold

15

Under Offer

Real Estate Agency Melbourne VIC 3000 (Ranked by Sold Volume in Past 12 Months)

Sold in

7 days

14 Dingo Street, Point Cook 4

Sold in

2

Sold in

10 days

1005/59 Paisley Street, Footscray

2

2

12 days

Sold in

18 Gershwin Crescent, Point Cook 3

2

2

1

16 days

325/8 Railway Road, Cheltenham

1

2

1

1

On RedNote

Sold in

17 days

2303/200 Spencer Street, Melbourne 1

1

1

Sold in

23 days

113/347 Camberwell Road, Camberwell 2

1

1 24

5

th Apartment Sold

@ 33 Mackenzie 2513/33 Mackenzie Street, Melbourne 1

8

1

th Apartment Sold

@ Collins Tower 2305/568 Collins Street, Melbourne 2

1

10

th Apartment Sold

@ Lucia

1513/8 Daly Street, South Yarra 2

8

1

th Apartment Under Offer

@ Collins House 2004/464 Collins Street, Melbourne 3 25

2

1

Recent Sales

113/347 Camberwell Road, Camberwell

113/13 Acacia Place, Abbotsford

325/8 Railway Road, Cheltenham

14 Dingo Street, Point Cook

2303/200 Spencer Street, Melbourne

1B Ireland Avenue, Doncaster East

4/36 Albion Road, Box Hill

2513/33 Mackenzie Street, Melbourne

2306/568 Collins Street, Melbourne

1704/327 La Trobe Street, Melbourne

1513/8 Daly Street, South Yarra

502/102 Stanley Street, West Melbourne

1402/8 Sutherland Street, Melbourne

1005/59 Paisley Street, Footscray

4311/639 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne 26

Grow with Rabbitree “A Place to Grow” 27

We are building more than a company.

We are building a place where people grow.

At Rabbitree, growth is not just a goal, it is our foundation. Whether it is nurturing careers, deepening client relationships, or expanding what real estate can look like in Australia, we believe in doing it with people who care, think, and lead.

If you are looking for a place to challenge yourself, collaborate with integrity, and create work that truly matters, Rabbitree might be where your next chapter begins.

We welcome real estate professionals, marketers, creatives, and those with the passion to grow — in skill, in ambition, in purpose.

Because when you grow, we grow.

Grow with Rabbitree.

We’re always open to a conversation.

Email: admin@rabbitree.com.au 28

Cracking the Code: Smarter Mortgage Strategies for Property Investors Industry insight from Marc Wang, Mortgage Strategist & CEO of 1989 Capital In today’s fast-moving property market, having the right mortgage strategy is just as important as choosing the right property.

Whether you’re a first-time investor or managing a growing portfolio, how your loan is structured can significantly affect your cash flow, tax efficiency, and ability to scale.

We spoke with Marc Wang, CEO of boutique mortgage firm 1989 Capital, to unpack the most common questions investors should be asking — and the pitfalls they should be avoiding.

Q: What’s one mistake even experienced investors make when it comes to their loans?

Q: How often should investors revisit their mortgage setup?

A: They treat their mortgage like a one-time transaction, rather than a tool that evolves with their portfolio. A lot of people chase the lowest interest rate — and ignore how their loan is structured. Poor loan design can limit future borrowing, create tax inefficiencies, and expose you to unnecessary risks.

It’s not just about price — it’s about strategy.

A: Ideally, once a year — or whenever your circumstances change. That includes new purchases, major life events, or market shifts. Your loan should adapt with your portfolio. Even small tweaks — like changing repayment types or refinancing for equity access — can unlock new opportunities.

Q: Interest Only or Principal & Interest — how do you choose?

Q: Structuring for tax benefits: what should investors know?

A: It comes down to your investment goals. Interest Only helps preserve cash flow — great if you’re aggressively growing or renovating. But P&I builds equity and typically comes with sharper rates. A common approach we recommend is keeping your investment debt Interest Only and aggressively paying down your owner-occupied loan. That way, you optimise both cash flow and tax effectiveness.

A: Strategy and structure go hand in hand. For example, you want to preserve tax deductibility on investment loans by not mixing them with owneroccupied debt. Loan splits, offset accounts, and avoiding cross-collateralisation can make a big difference. And it’s crucial your broker works closely with your accountant to get this right.

Q: Equity release — smart strategy or overused buzzword?

Q: Should investors fix their rate in this market?

A: Done right, it’s a very smart move. Releasing equity from an existing property can fund your next purchase without dipping into savings. But it needs to be backed by a clear plan. What’s the yield?

What’s your debt-to-income ratio post-settlement?

It’s about smart leverage, not overextending.

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A: Fixed rates offer predictability — but come at the cost of flexibility. If you're planning to hold and not make extra repayments, fixing part of your loan might make sense. A split loan — part fixed, part variable — gives you the best of both worlds. But again, it needs to align with your personal and investment timeline.

Smarter Lending, Built Around You Whether you’re just starting out or scaling to your fifth property, the right mortgage strategy is a game-changer.

At 1989 Capital, we don’t just write loans, we partner with clients to build long-term, resilient lending plans.

Marc Wang

CEO of 1989 Capital Mortgage Services

0430 008 120 marc@1989capital.com.au www.1989capital.com.au

Click to Explore

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More Than Paperwork:

Why Conveyancing Matters When buying or selling property, it is easy to focus on the price, the styling, or the big milestones. But behind every successful transaction is a layer of legal groundwork that makes it possible, and that part is often overlooked.

Conveyancing is not just paperwork. It is what protects your rights, ensures your money moves securely, and prevents costly legal issues down the track.

What does a conveyancer actually do?

A conveyancer ensures that the legal transfer of property ownership is clear, complete, and compliant. They review contracts, identify risks, coordinate with banks and councils, and make sure settlement happens smoothly.

What could go wrong without the right help?

Delays, unpaid rates, zoning surprises, building notices, or missed contract clauses, these are just a few of the risks when conveyancing is handled poorly or overlooked entirely.

What should you look for in a conveyancer?

Choose someone who is experienced, communicative, licensed, and detail-focused. A good conveyancer should make complex things feel simple, not the other way around.

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Clarity. Confidence. Compliance.

Cornell and Associates is a trusted legal services firm specialising in conveyancing and propertyrelated legal matters. With over ten years of industry experience, our team of highly skilled and licensed conveyancers is dedicated to guiding clients through every stage of their property transactions with clarity, efficiency, and legal confidence.

We assist clients with a wide range of matters, including the purchase and sale of residential and commercial properties, off-the-plan transactions, and subdivisions. Our services are tailored to meet the unique needs of each client, ensuring smooth settlements and full compliance with legal requirements throughout the process.

In addition to serving local buyers, sellers, and developers, we also work closely with overseas investors, helping them navigate the complexities of the Australian property market and meet all necessary regulatory obligations. Whether you’re purchasing your first home, investing in new developments, managing a subdivision or acquiring property from abroad, Cornell and Associates offers the professional support and legal expertise to make your transaction secure and successful.

At Cornell and Associates, we are committed to delivering personalised service, timely communication, and peace of mind for every client.

Amber Jiang

Director of Cornell & Associates

0425 303 717 03 9859 9860 www.cornellnassociates.com

Click to Explore

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See You Next Month.

The market moves. So do we.

Each month brings new stories, new data, and new decisions.

Through Outlook, we will continue to share what we see, what we learn, and what we believe is worth paying attention to.

Thank you for reading.

Outlook is published monthly by Rabbitree Real Estate.

To subscribe or get in touch, visit rabbitree.com.au © Rabbitree 2025. All rights reserved.