The best evidence for any advisory service is not what we say about it — it is what clients have actually achieved. These case studies illustrate how a Collings Property Advisory engagement for $4,500 + GST has delivered measurable outcomes across buying, selling and investment scenarios in Melbourne.

Case Study 1 — First Home Buyer Saves $42,000 in Northcote

Situation: A first home buyer found a terrace house in Northcote listed at $1,050,000. The agent was pushing hard for the asking price, claiming multiple parties were interested. The buyer engaged a Collings Property Advisor before making an offer.

What we did: Ran a full comparable sales analysis using 14 recent comparable sales within 500m. Determined market value was $985,000-$1,005,000. Prepared a negotiation strategy and handled all agent communications.

Outcome: Property purchased at $1,008,000 — $42,000 below the asking price. The buyer paid $4,500 for advisory and saved $42,000 on the purchase. Net saving: $37,500.

Case Study 2 — Investor Avoids Overpaying in Preston

Situation: An investor found a brick duplex in Preston advertised at $1,180,000. The listing claimed a 4.2% rental yield. They engaged a Collings Property Advisor before proceeding.

What we did: Reviewed the rental appraisal — found the quoted yield was based on projected rents that exceeded current market rents by 18%. Assessed comparable duplexes. Determined true market value was $1,080,000-$1,120,000 at a realistic yield of 3.5%.

Outcome: Client offered $1,095,000 with a 14-day settlement condition. Vendor accepted at $1,110,000 — $70,000 below asking. Investor entered the deal with realistic yield expectations and correct market pricing.

Case Study 3 — Private Seller Gets $55,000 More in Thornbury

Situation: A homeowner in Thornbury wanted to sell privately but had no idea how to price or negotiate. They were considering listing well below market to achieve a quick sale. They engaged a Collings Property Advisor for seller advisory.

What we did: Ran a full comparable sales analysis. Determined the property was worth $30,000-$55,000 more than the owner planned to ask. Developed a pricing and marketing strategy. Helped qualify buyer enquiries and negotiate the final offer.

Outcome: Property sold for $55,000 above the owner’s original intended asking price. After paying the $4,500 advisory fee, the net gain was $50,500 — without paying full agent commission.

Case Study 4 — Buyer Walks Away From a Bad Deal in Kew

Situation: A buyer was emotionally attached to a period home in Kew and was prepared to pay the asking price of $2,250,000. Their partner suggested getting independent advice first. A Collings Property Advisor reviewed the property.

What we did: Identified significant building issues in the pre-purchase inspection report the buyer had dismissed as minor. Quantified the cost of rectification at $180,000-$240,000. Assessed comparable sales. Determined that at the asking price, the property was $150,000-$200,000 overpriced even without the rectification costs.

Outcome: Buyer walked away from the deal. They subsequently purchased a comparable property in Balwyn for $2,080,000 in better condition. The $4,500 advisory fee saved them from a $350,000+ mistake.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a typical saving for buyers who use a Collings Property Advisor?

Results vary depending on the property, the market and the negotiation. In the case studies above, buyers saved between $42,000 and $350,000. The advisory fee is $4,500 + GST — the question is whether independent advice is worth it on a purchase of $600,000 or more.

Can you guarantee a specific saving?

No advisory service can guarantee a specific outcome. What we can guarantee is independent, expert assessment and professional negotiation on your behalf — removing the information asymmetry between you and the selling agent.

Ready to get real results on your next property decision? Book a Collings Property Advisory consultation for $4,500 + GST. Visit collings.com.au/portal to get started.