Street Secrets 028: David Zerna of Timar Buyers Agency | Tasmania
“If you get in early, you win 50% of the time — but most investors don’t get in early. They go in once it’s hit realestate.com or the front page of the Herald Sun… and those hotspots aren’t really where you should be investing.” – David Zerna
Tasmania has become one of Australia’s most misunderstood property markets — and that’s exactly where opportunity can still be hiding. In this episode, Chris Bates sits down with David Zerna, Director of Timar Buyers Agency, to unpack what’s really driving Hobart, Launceston, and the broader Tassie market beyond the usual hotspot headlines.
David shares how Tasmania’s lifestyle appeal, climate, infrastructure pipeline, and local buyer behaviour are shaping demand across the state. He also breaks down where interstate investors get caught out — from slow gentrification cycles to property orientation, paper-based conveyancing, and buyer-beware rules.
If you’re thinking about investing or buying in Tasmania, this episode will help you understand what actually matters on the ground — and why local knowledge is everything.
Episode Highlights
01:45 – From Corporate to Buyer’s Agent: David Zerna
03:25 – Tasmania’s Property Cycles Explained
06:11 – Post-COVID Migration Driving Demand
11:17 – Investor Mistakes and Slow Gentrification
15:24 – What Buyers Value in Hobart Today
22:26 – AFL Stadium and Future Growth Drivers
29:24 – Legal Risks and Hidden Tassie Opportunities
About the Guest
David Zerna has been investing in property for around 17 years, building hands-on experience across multiple market cycles in Tasmania. Before transitioning into property full-time, he worked in corporate, retail, and customer service leadership roles, developing a strong foundation in client relationships and operations.
He is now the Director of Timar Buyers Agency, where he advises both investors and owner-occupiers across Hobart, Launceston, and broader Tasmania. His approach is grounded in real experience — navigating markets personally before moving into the buyer’s agent space.
Through Timar Buyers Agency, David focuses on helping clients buy with precision in a market that behaves very differently to mainland cities, with an emphasis on asset selection, local insight, and long-term outcomes.
Connect with David
Work with Chris (Alcove)
- Business Webpage Link - https://alcove.com.au
- 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/
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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.