Matthew Skene
Matthew is deeply invested in the region, both professionally and personally, and prides himself on clear communication, strong negotiation and delivering considered outcomes for clients. Here, he shares a little of his real-estate wisdom.
What advice would you give to young people looking to buy?
Focus on long-term fundamentals rather than timing the market. Buy the best location and property you can comfortably afford, and don’t overextend. Patience, good advice and a clear plan will always outperform rushing into the wrong purchase.
Do you think luxury features are important to include in homes and new builds?
Yes, but only when they’re well considered. Buyers value quality, natural light, flow and liveability over excess. Thoughtful design, durable materials and connection to the environment matter more than ticking every luxury feature box.
What’s your number-one tip for someone selling their property?
Get the pricing and presentation right from day one. First impressions are everything. A well-prepared home, combined with a clear pricing strategy, creates momentum and competition, which ultimately delivers the strongest result.
What is the favourite property you’ve sold and why?
Large lifestyle properties stand out. They’re often tightly held, emotionally driven and require a tailored approach. Successfully matching the right buyer to a unique property is always rewarding, especially when it delivers a life-changing move for both parties.
What do you think buyers are looking for in new properties?
They are prioritising space, privacy, and flexibility. Natural light, indoor-outdoor flow and low-maintenance design are key. Sustainability and energy efficiency are also becoming increasingly important decision drivers.
What areas do you think will experience the biggest growth over the next 12 months?
Areas offering lifestyle value with strong fundamentals will continue to perform well. Pockets around the Byron Bay Hinterland that combine privacy, accessibility and limited supply are likely to see ongoing demand and steady growth.
