Street Secrets 017: Jess Ellam of Ellam Property | Adelaide
“Adelaide has always been slow and steady — we’re not volatile like the Eastern states.”
— Jess Ellam
Adelaide has quietly become one of Australia’s most compelling property markets — but only if you understand how it actually works.
In this episode of Street Secrets, Chris Bates sits down with Adelaide buyer’s agent Jess Ellam to break down the realities behind the city’s growth.
With over 20 years in real estate and deep experience on both the sales and buyer’s side, Jess explains why Adelaide remains a slow-and-steady market, how COVID reshaped interstate demand, and why many investors underestimate the importance of local knowledge.
They discuss zoning changes under Planning SA, the impact of infrastructure like the north–south tunnel, lifestyle-driven demand near the coast and inner ring, and where investors should be cautious — especially when buying remotely without boots on the ground.
Whether you’re an investor or home buyer, this episode will help you understand Adelaide beyond the data — and make smarter, more defensible property decisions.
Episode Highlights
00:00 – Introduction and Guest Welcome
01:54 – Jess Ellen's Journey into Real Estate
04:33 – Adelaide Market Overview
05:02 – COVID-19 Impact on Adelaide
06:44 – Adelaide's Unique Lifestyle and Property Preferences
10:51 – Investment Opportunities in Adelaide
16:45 – Navigating the Adelaide Property Market
27:30 – Conclusion and Final Thoughts
About the Guest
Jess Ellam is the Founder and Director of Ellam Property, a licensed buyer advocacy firm based in Adelaide. With nearly 20 years of experience across both the sales and buyer sides of real estate, Jess began her career at 17, learning the transaction process from the ground up before purchasing her first investment property as a teenager — an experience that shaped her practical, client-first approach.
After working with one of Adelaide’s first buyer advocacy firms, Jess launched Ellam Property in 2020. Her business has grown almost entirely through referrals, underpinned by deep local knowledge, strong agent relationships, and detailed comparable sales analysis. Holding a Diploma in Property and currently completing her Property Investment Adviser qualification through PIPA, Jess helps home buyers and investors navigate Adelaide’s market with clarity, confidence, and a focus on long-term fundamentals.
Connect with Jess
- Jess’ LinkedIn
- Ellam Property (website)
- Jess’ Facebook Page
- Jess’ Instagram
- Phone: +61 400 084 804
Work with Chris (Alcove)
- Business Webpage Link - https://
- Phone: 0489 913 227
- Email - hello@alcove.com.au
- Socials:
- LinkedIn (Alcove) - https://www.linkedin.com/company/alcovemb
- LinkedIn (Chris) - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherbates/
- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/alcove.au
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The information provided in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as financial, investment, or credit advice. It does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation, or needs. You should consider the appropriateness of the information to your circumstances and seek advice from a licensed financial adviser, mortgage broker, or other qualified professional before making any decision. Canopy Private Pty Ltd holds Australian Credit Licence 558709.