Anna Weatherlake
Having collaborated with some of the country’s leading architects and developers, Anna Weatherlake, along with her team at Forbes Global Properties, instinctively understands what makes a home special – and how to communicate that to buyers. With a rare mix of design knowledge and construction insight, she’s part of a new wave of agents redefining how premium real estate is experienced, with the backing and global reach of the Forbes brand. With a background in media, establishing an instant rapport with people is something that comes naturally to Anna. Here’s her take on the current state of the property market.
Q: Where is the prestige market heading?
A: The Melbourne prestige market is entering a new frontier. Wealth here has traditionally been discreet rather than ostentatious, and while we’ve weathered a quieter period since Covid, there’s a clear sense that buyers are readying themselves for renewed confidence.
Q: What advice would you give to young people looking to buy in Sydney/Melbourne/Brisbane?
A: Focus on location as it’s the one thing you can’t change. Stretch for the best-positioned property you can afford. Even something smaller or unrenovated in a great area will grow with you and outperform over time.
Q: What’s your number one tip for someone selling their property
A: Assemble the best team possible. Not just an agent, but a stylist, marketing specialists and people who understand how to craft and amplify your home’s story. Too many agents still cling to an outdated model of selling real estate. At Forbes, we’re at the forefront of a new wave – one that fuses the world’s most powerful media brand with a real estate business built specifically for the prestige market. It’s changing how premium properties are sold and acquired. I believe today’s success lies in innovation: delivering personalised communication, curated and heavily tailored experiences, and world-class marketing. The process should feel elevated, strategic and deeply considered.
Q: What is the favorite property you’ve sold and why?
A: There is no favourite property, but rather favourite people – they make it memorable. You are there at a very important moment in people’s lives and sometimes the connection or the impact you might have leads to lifelong friendships and associations. It’s a rewarding element of the business.
Q: What do you think buyers are looking for in a new apartment developments?
A: Great location and uncompromising quality. Buyers want light, generous proportions and materials that feel timeless. Boutique developments with architectural integrity are resonating most. Many of our buyers are downsizing from large family homes, so space and liveability are key.
Q: What suburbs do you think will experience the biggest growth over the next 12 months?
A: We are seeing a lot of wealth sitting quietly beneath the surface at the moment. A younger, emerging buyer segment is positioned to re-energise the top end once confidence returns, and the growing influence of women in wealth will accelerate this further. Melbourne’s more renowned suburbs – Armadale, Albert Park, Brighton, South Yarra and Toorak – will continue to lead the growth in terms of suburbs, driven by lifestyle, design calibre and the enduring appeal of those areas.
